How To Dress for a Golf Tournament (Plus What To Bring!)
Attending a golf tournament in person can be a ton of fun, but not if you’ve dressed incorrectly. Going to a golf tournament takes much more planning than a walk in the park. Men and women should have comfortable clothing that meets the weather for that given day, especially shoes.
As a spectator at a golf tournament, you don't need to follow the same dress code as the pros. Feel free to wear shorts, a nice t-shirt, or a hoodie, but avoid clothing with rips or tears. In addition, make sure to bring some essential accessories, as hats, sunscreen, and perhaps a jacket. Learn exactly how to dress for a golf tournament for any weather, and which accessories to pack.
Dos & Don’ts of Dressing for a Golf Tournament
Nobody likes showing up to an event underdressed, or overdressed. To ensure your golf tournament attire is spot on, follow these dos and don'ts.
Do:
- Check the weather right up until you leave the house
- Keep an umbrella in the car and leave it behind when you park if it looks clear
- Build your outfit around your most comfortable shoes
- Layer your clothing, especially if you plan to arrive at the tournament in the morning
- Make sure your clothing doesn’t have any rips or tears
Don’t:
- Wear sandals
- Wear golf shoes
- Wear high heels
- Forget to bring a jacket or top layer
- Feel the need to wear pants just because the pros do
How To Dress For a Golf Tournament
Depending on your location and the tournament you’re attending, you can expect a lot of different weather conditions. For some events early in the season, even in Florida, the temperature can get chilly. On the other hand, events in July and August can be very hot. Here are some tips on how men and women can dress to be best prepared.
Dressing for a Golf Tournament in Warm Weather
Attending a golf tournament can be a great way to spend a beautiful summer day. But spending hours in the sun requires careful preparation and outfit-planning. Here's what to wear for men and women.
Men:
- Baseball or bucket hat to protect you from the sun.
- Polo shirt or nice t-shirt.
- Golf shorts. Avoid gym shorts.
- Comfortable shoes that you can walk long distances in.
- Socks that cover your heels.
Women:
- Baseball or bucket hat to protect you from the sun.
- Polo shirt, short-sleeve blouse, or any women’s golf wear.
- Golf shorts or golf skort. Avoid athletic wear.
- Comfortable shoes
- Socks that cover your heels
Dressing for a Golf Tournament in Cold Weather
Cold and windy weather makes for some of the most dramatic, spectator-friendly action on the golf course. If you're going to watch the drama unfold live, here's how to dress.
Men:
- Baseball hat and winter hat. Cover your bases.
- Polo shirt or nice t-shirt
- Top layer such as a quarter zip, golf jacket, golf vest, or golf hoodie
- Golf pants, not jeans
- Comfortable shoes, preferably with some waterproofing
- Longer socks
- Lighter gloves
Women:
- Baseball hat and winter hat
- Polo shirt or any women’s golf wear
- Top layer such as a vest or golf jacket
- Golf pants, not jeans
- Comfortable shoes, preferably with some waterproofing
- Longer socks
- Lighter gloves
Must-have accessories for Golf Tournaments
In addition to dressing the part, here are some accessories you shouldn’t leave home without. Pro tip: check the tournament’s website to see what size bags are allowed and what items you can put in your bag.
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Cash
- Portable phone charger
- Sharpie for autographs
- Water bottle
- ID
- Golf umbrella
- Clear bag for security purposes
- Collapsible chair
- Chapstick
- Course map and tournament tee sheet
- Binoculars
- Hand warmers (if needed)
- Battery operated fan (if needed)
- Cooling towel (if needed)
Get in the Hole!
You can be perfectly dressed for a golf tournament but if you’re just there to yell “get in the hole!” or “mashed potatoes!” your trip is a failure no matter what you’re wearing. Side note: please don’t do that.
Dressing appropriately for a golf tournament can make or break your complete experience. Use this guide to navigate the grounds from the first tee to the final putt in comfort and style.