Golf clubs have their own rules, as does the Augusta National Golf Club, which is based in Augusta (Georgia, USA) and has been in existence for more than 80 years. This golf club is one of the most famous clubs in the USA. The annual Masters is also held here. The dress code in golf and the rules of golf, which exist in every golf club, are particularly important there.
The golf dress code at the official rules of golf
As far as clothing is concerned, jeans should not be worn and shirts should often only be worn with collars, as is the case with polo shirts, for example. If baseball caps are worn, then please only ever wear them with the visor facing forward. Jewelry, such as those with large skulls, can be a hindrance when playing and are sometimes even completely forbidden. The typical – some might say stereotypical – golf attire often consists of long pants and polo shirts. The rules do not specify any more than this, which is the case at most golf clubs.
At least until 2011, women were not welcome in some clubs. It was only after a demonstration by the women’s rights organization NOW that the first two women were invited to the Augusta National Golf Club in 2012. These are the entrepreneur Darla Moore and the former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. But there are also no black members. The golf champion Lee Trevino was supposed to be an exception, but he declined the invitation on the grounds that he did not feel comfortable in a white southern organization. You can’t just join the Augusta National Golf Club either, but the rule is that someone who is chosen is simply sent an invoice. If they pay it, they become a member for life.
Dress code at golf clubs in Germany
The German Golf Association (DGV) itself has not laid down a specific dress code either, but simply states that clothing should be “sporty, comfortable and neat”. The rules laid down by the operator of the course – usually the golf club – apply with regard to the dress code. Golf Club Neuhof e.V. writes this on its website: Forbidden are, among other things:
“T-shirts and sweatshirts without collars or sleeves, simple blue jeans, jogging and tracksuits as well as shorts typically worn when practicing other sports. Shirts are to be worn tucked into pants. (Further rules state that clothing on the terrace and in the restaurant must not be more sweaty and if sweat stains are visible, the premises may not be entered. In this case, the restaurant may refuse service. Guests visiting the golf club must also observe the dress code).”
The instructions on clothing on the terrace and in the restaurant have since been amended. It now simply states: “The restaurant and terrace may not be entered with heavily soiled or sweaty clothing.”
The “shorts and pants question”
The question of whether or not shorts are allowed when playing golf is certainly one that divides opinion – especially for men. In some golf clubs, shorts are not allowed at all, in others they have to reach above the knee, and in others, as in the example above, it is mainly the “classic” sports shorts that are not welcome. In golf fashion, you see shorts in almost every collection. And if you look around on golf trips, in many countries shorts are absolutely acceptable on the golf course, even for men.
Every golf club in Germany has its own rules and these are generally very similar. Some are stricter, such as Golf Club Neuhof e.V., while others are a little more relaxed.
Men are now also allowed to show their legs on the golf course. Comfortable Bermudas made from lightweight materials make playing in summer temperatures much more pleasant. As with the ladies, however, men’s trousers should not be too short – they should at least reach just above the knee.
The sport of golf is noticeably changing. It is shedding its image as an elitist and snobbish leisure activity and is becoming an interesting option for the average Joe to spend a few relaxing hours on the course with friends and have fun at the same time.
What should I wear to a golf taster course?
Golf beginners in particular often ask themselves what they should wear to a golf taster course. The answer is quite simple: comfortable, sporty clothing that offers enough freedom of movement and suits the weather. You don’t have to wear golf shoes, normal sports shoes are perfectly adequate.
The dress code in other countries
After we have already looked at the dress code in German golf clubs, we will now look at the dress code at golf clubs in other countries.
South Africa
On the golf courses in South Africa, you can still feel the British influences from colonial times. Shirts there should always have collars, and men wear either long pants or golf shorts. However, knee socks are a must with these slightly shorter pants. If you want to wear a golf cap: the right way round, i.e. not in the loose style of a beach volleyball player. Military-style pants or classic jeans of almost any kind are frowned upon.
Ladies’ skirts must not be shorter than 15 centimetres above the knee when bending over.
Only certain brands allowed?
The Stellenbosch Golf Club, which is over 100 years old, goes one step further. In addition to the accepted clothing, only well-known golf labels may be worn.
Such regulations also apply in countries or continents such as Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada and, of course, the British Isles. As a guest, however, you should respect these sometimes somewhat stiff-sounding regulations
Our advice
If you are going on a golf trip, always check the club’s website beforehand to see if any special rules apply. Basically, the dress code for golfing hardly differs between Germany and other countries.
The golf dress code in the USA
Even though the USA has a reputation for being more relaxed and casual than Germany, there is also a more formal dress code on the golf courses there. Here too, men often wear polo shirts or collared shirts, long pants and golf shoes. However, shorts are also permitted in many clubs. Women are also welcome to wear polo shirts or blouses with collars. Long pants, skirts or capri pants and golf shoes. Jeans or other sportswear are just as undesirable as revealing clothing. Here too: Exceptions prove the rules, some clubs are more relaxed than others.
The fashion revolution on the golf course
When it comes to the choice of clothing, golf clubs are now much more relaxed and no longer insist on adherence to a specific dress code.
Apart from a golf bag with clubs and balls, special golf shoes are the most important part of basic equipment. Apart from a few exceptions, they are generally compulsory on golf courses. Sneakers and sandals are not banned from the golf course for this reason, but their soles can damage the green.
Golf shoes also have spiked soles. Especially in the morning, when the course is still damp but the game is at its best on summer days, there is a risk of slipping when swinging and hitting with smooth soles. Golf shoes, on the other hand, provide the necessary grip.
Star golfer John Daly proves that golf fashion has to be anything but boring and conservative. He is known for his quirky outfits in bright colors and flashy patterns. His unusual golf pants are legendary. Even non-professionals are increasingly showing their courage with color. The color-blocking fashion trend has also made its way onto golf courses in recent years. Neon green pants are combined with purple shirts and the shoes stand out in bright red. As John Daly also proves, all other items of clothing should have no additional patterns or be plain-colored if they are eye-catching.
Female golfers are allowed to wear skirts and dresses on the golf course. In addition to the classic, subtle shades, they are available in strong colors such as red, pink or sky blue and with figure-hugging cuts. However, women who play golf should make sure that their golf outfit is not too short. The skirt should end no earlier than ten centimetres above the knee and the neckline should not be too low. Polo shirts have proven to be the best choice. They do not allow you to see too much and are comfortable to wear.
