Knowing what to wear golfing in the UK is tricky at the best of times due to the weather, but deciphering golf dress codes is a whole other story.
Sadly, the UK has no fixed golf dress code, meaning every
club is different. The variation of dress codes can be quite daunting, with
some clubs having a different golf dress code on the course versus inside the
clubhouse—and even a different dress code for different times of day inside the
clubhouse.
But don’t worry—whether you want to dress to impress or keep it low-key, our ultimate guide to golf dress codes in the UK will keep you on the right track.
Check the dress code
This one might feel obvious, but being reminded to
physically check the dress code at different golf clubs is always good. By
checking, you can avoid any embarrassment when you arrive or funny looks from
the regulars.
You can usually find a course’s dress code on their website,
in a section that outlines prohibited clothing or their general dress code
policy.
If in doubt, it’s always a good idea to contact the golf course directly—over the phone or email—to get your answers straight from the staff.
Types of golf dress code in the UK
Depending on what you’re looking for, checking out a
course’s dress code is a good way to narrow down which ones you want to attend.
Generally, you will find three types of dress codes,
traditional, smart casual and relaxed. Choosing will depend on your playing
style. For example, if you’re into comfort or a beginner, a course offering a
more relaxed and casual dress code might be more up your street.
Here’s a deeper dive into the different dress code styles.
Stricter and more traditional
The more traditional dress code typically requires you to
wear items such as:
- A collared shirt
- Tailored trousers or shorts
- Golf shoes with soft spikes
A traditional dress code can vary for women, who would often
be required to wear items such as a skirt or dress in a particular colour or
length.
Smart casual
A tier down from traditional, smart casual is slightly more
relaxed. This can include:
- Tailored trousers or shorts
- Polo shirts or collared shirts
- Golf shoes with soft spikes
Smart jeans and trainers may sometimes be permitted under a
smart casual golf dress code.
Relaxed and casual
This dress code usually allows you to wear more breathable fabrics
and is far more relaxed than the rest.
With this dress code, you are usually allowed to wear a
wider variety of clothing, such as:
- trainers
- t-shirts
- sports shorts
Despite being relaxed, some restrictions will likely be on ripped or revealing clothing.
General golf dress code guidelines in the UK
Though we suggest checking out each course’s dress code
before you attend, we’ve put together some suggestions for different clothing
items you could wear to generally fit in.
Footwear
Your footwear is a great place to start as it helps to place
you in which category of dress code you’d be most comfortable in.
Most golf courses will expect you to wear golf shoes, and
there is a huge variety to pick from—including waterproof
shoes.
Metal spiked shoes are primarily worn by professionals, such as Tiger Woods and are usually discouraged at normal golf courses as they can dig up and disrupt the playing surface.
If you are looking to invest in golf shoes with spikes to
add grip when twisting, we suggest going for shoes with shorter spikes—these
usually look like rough dimples on the bottom of the shoe.
Check out our pick of the best
golf shoes on the market to get your search started.
Shirts and jackets
To be on the safe side, we would aim for a smarter shirt as,
generally, t-shirts and vests aren’t allowed.
Collared or mock-neck shirts are the norm for wearing on the course. Polo shirts are also suggested for women or men at more relaxed clubs.
Related: The 11 best women’s golf polo shirts
If the weather is a little chilly, opting for a smarter
outer layer is advised. Here you can be more creative with options from gilets to waterproof
jackets.
Trousers and shorts
The decision between trousers or shorts is usually based on the weather or time of year.
Anything denim (jean shorts) or athletic-type sports shorts
should be avoided. Instead, try tailored trousers or shorts.
Specific golf trousers are also available. These are created
with sport in mind and are usually a bit more breathable and flexible.
Skirts and Dresses
Skirts and dresses can be worn on most courses, so they are
a safe option. However, it is best to go with a length deemed ‘appropriate’, so
we suggest the shortest to be just above the knee.
Anything too revealing is generally not allowed.
Accessories
Accessories aren’t a necessity to the average golf dress
code in the UK, but they are a great addition to your outfit—and of course,
some can aid your game.
Accessories can include, and are not limited to:
- Hats and visors—though wearing a cap backward is usually not allowed
- Golf glove
- Sunglasses
- GPS watch or normal watch
Clubhouse dress code
Some courses will have a specific dress code for their
clubhouse, which can change at different times of the day.
Most clubhouses will have changing rooms for you to change
out of your golfing outfit.
If you’re wearing spiked golf shoes, it is always advised to
have a second, normal or spikeless,
pair of shoes to change into—as many clubhouses won’t allow you in with spikes.
If you attend a club with a more formal or traditional dress
code, you may need to change into smarter clothing to eat or drink inside.
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