Don't Select Your Golf Clothing Until You Read This

I can think of two really good reason to pick the right golf clothing. First is that you want to make a good first impression. I know that this is really an old school wisdom, but you need to understand that regardless of whether we are talking about work or play, your appearance is everyone's first clue about your attitude toward life. The second reason I have in mind is more pragmatic; Your clothes need to accommodate the physical needs of the game.

There is no golf course or country club, that I know of, that does not have some sort of dress code. These standards boil down to one thing: you need to be presentable.  This isn't just some snooty etiquette thing. By meeting these dress standards you are showing respect for the game, for other golfers as well as for yourself.

The dress code for men is easy enough to follow: a shirt that has a collar and slacks. No jeans, no t-shirt, no cut-offs. Not on the golf course. The shirt can be a pull-over, like the good old standard polo shirt. Either long or short sleeves are allowed. The slacks cannot be denim. You may also wear shorts but you want to stick to shorts tailored for golf, which is to say wear shorts with belt loops. No gym shorts.

As you might guess, women's attire for golf is slightly more complicated than men's. Shirts with collars are not strictly required. Polo shirts will work as well for women as they do for men. However, women's tops that expose the midriff and tank tops are not usually allowed. When it comes to color selection, there is nothing wrong with bright colors. It is probably a good idea to have only one bright color. Some men can get away with the "Loudmouth" look, but that is pushing the envelop. I have yet to see a woman sporting this type of funky golf clothing look.

Either slacks, shorts, or skirt are suitable for women's golf. There is also something called a "skort" - a pair of shorts that looks like a skirt - which is perfectly appropriate for golf.

Remember the head wear. You are going to be spending a long time out in the sun, (if you are lucky), so you need protection from those rays. Conditions permitting though, some golfers opt for just a visor instead of a hat. Visors protect the eyes from the glare effectively enough, but do little to protect your head from the heat. Each to his or her own.

Okay, now the most important piece of clothing: golf shoes. Good golf shoes need to do two things well; They need to provide you a firm, non-slippery base for your swing, especially for long drives. Then they also need to be comfortable enough to allow you to walk the 6,000 or so yards for a full round of golf.

It is a lot to take in for a newbie golfer. Just bear in mind that ultimately you want to find clothes that fit your personal style and project self confidence. Don't get golf clothes that are going make you feel embarrassed to be seen on the course. Just take your time before deciding what to wear.