Ultimate guide to UK golf dress codes

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.

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Now that you’re looking to invest in the proper clothing, you may also want to invest in specialist golf insurance.

After spending money on all the right gear, nothing would be worse than seeing it damaged or stolen. With Golf Care policies include Equipment cover up to £7,500, Public Liability of up to £10m and more.

Thanks to the Ripe Guarantee, you won’t find the same level of coverage for a better price elsewhere.

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