What to Wear Golfing: Beginner’s Dress Code Guide 2025

Published: July 25, 2025

Walking onto a golf course for the first time can feel intimidating, especially when you’re not sure what to wear. Golf dress codes exist for tradition, safety, and course maintenance – but they don’t have to be complicated or expensive. This complete guide will help you dress appropriately for any golf course while staying comfortable and confident.

Golf Dress Code Quick Reference

Course Type	Dress Code Level	Key Requirements	Budget Range
Public/Municipal	Relaxed	Collared shirt, golf shoes	$80-$150
Semi-Private	Moderate	Polo shirt, tailored shorts/pants	$120-$250
Private/Country Club	Strict	Polo, dress pants, belt	$200-$400
Resort Course	Variable	Depends on location	$100-$300

Good news: Most affordable public courses in Wisconsin have relaxed dress codes perfect for beginners.

Essential Golf Attire by Category

Men’s Golf Clothing

Shirts – The Foundation of Golf Attire

✅ ALWAYS ACCEPTABLE:

• Polo shirts with collar (most versatile choice)
• Golf-specific performance shirts with moisture-wicking
• Collared button-down shirts (more formal courses)
• Mock turtlenecks (cooler weather option)

❌ NEVER ACCEPTABLE:

• Tank tops or sleeveless shirts
• T-shirts without collars
• Shirts with offensive graphics
• Muscle shirts or undershirts as outerwear

Budget-Friendly Men’s Shirt Options:

Course Type	Dress Code Level	Key Requirements	Budget Range
Public/Municipal	Relaxed	Collared shirt, golf shoes	$80-$150
Semi-Private	Moderate	Polo shirt, tailored shorts/pants	$120-$250
Private/Country Club	Strict	Polo, dress pants, belt	$200-$400
Resort Course	Variable	Depends on location	$100-$300

Bottoms – Pants and Shorts

✅ ALWAYS ACCEPTABLE:

• Golf shorts (typically 7-9 inch inseam)
• Khaki or dress pants (wool, cotton, or performance blend)
• Golf-specific pants with stretch fabric
• Tailored chino shorts in conservative colors

❌ NEVER ACCEPTABLE:

• Jean shorts or denim of any kind
• Athletic shorts or basketball shorts
• Cargo shorts with multiple pockets
• Shorts above mid-thigh (too short)

Men’s Bottom Guidelines:

• Shorts length: Should hit at or just above the knee
• Colors: Navy, khaki, black, gray, white are safest
• Fit: Tailored but not tight, allows for golf swing movement

Women’s Golf Clothing

Tops – Stylish and Functional

✅ ALWAYS ACCEPTABLE:

• Polo shirts (classic and always appropriate)
• Sleeveless golf shirts with collars
• Golf-specific blouses designed for movement
• Moisture-wicking performance tops

❌ NEVER ACCEPTABLE:

• Strapless tops or tube tops
• Tops showing midriff or cleavage
• Sheer or see-through materials
• Athletic sports bras as outerwear

Budget-Friendly Women’s Golf Tops:

Brand/Store	Price Range	Style Options	Best For
Old Navy Active	$12-$20	Polos, sleeveless tops	Casual courses
Athleta Outlet	$25-$45	Performance golf wear	All course types
Lululemon Like New	$30-$50	Gently used premium	Upscale courses
TJ Maxx/Marshall’s	$15-$35	Designer brands discounted	Variety of styles

Bottoms – Skirts, Shorts, and Pants

✅ ALWAYS ACCEPTABLE:

• Golf skorts (skirt with built-in shorts)
• Bermuda shorts (knee-length or longer)
• Golf pants in stretch fabrics
• Capri pants for transitional weather

❌ NEVER ACCEPTABLE:

• Mini skirts or very short shorts
• Leggings without a covering skirt/top
• Yoga pants as standalone bottoms
• Denim in any form

Women’s Bottom Guidelines:

• Length rule: Shorts/skirts should be finger-tip length when arms hang naturally
• Coverage: No exposed undergarments or too-tight fits
• Movement: Must allow full range of motion for golf swing

Golf Shoes: Your Foundation for Success

Why Proper Golf Shoes Matter

Golf shoes aren’t just about dress code – they provide:

• Stability during your swing
• Traction on varied terrain
• Comfort for 4+ hours of walking
• Protection from morning dew and wet conditions

Types of Golf Shoes

Shoe Type	Traction	Versatility	Price Range	Best For
Spiked Golf Shoes	Maximum	Golf only	$60-$200	Wet conditions, serious players
Spikeless Golf Shoes	Good	High	$50-$150	Beginners, casual play
Golf Sandals	Minimal	Summer only	$40-$100	Hot weather, resort courses

Beginner Recommendation: Start with spikeless golf shoes for versatility and comfort.

Budget Golf Shoe Options

Men’s Budget Golf Shoes:

• Adidas Tech Response SL ($50-$70) – Great entry-level spikeless
• FootJoy Flex ($60-$80) – Comfortable and durable
• Skechers Go Golf Elite V.4 ($55-$75) – Lightweight walking shoe

Women’s Budget Golf Shoes:

• Nike Roshe G ($55-$75) – Stylish and comfortable
• Adidas Response Bounce ($50-$70) – Great support and cushioning
• New Balance Fresh Foam Links SL ($60-$80) – Superior comfort

Accessories and Weather Gear

Essential Golf Accessories

Must-Have Accessories:

• Golf glove (improves grip and prevents blisters)
• Belt (required at many courses, keeps shirt tucked)
• Hat or visor (sun protection and style)
• Sunglasses (eye protection and performance)

Weather-Specific Gear:

Hot Weather (Summer Golf)

• Moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and dry
• UV protection clothing (UPF 30+ recommended)
• Wide-brim hat for maximum sun coverage
• Cooling towels to beat the heat

Cool Weather (Spring/Fall)

• Golf sweaters or pullovers (quarter-zip styles popular)
• Wind-resistant jackets for breezy conditions
• Long pants in performance fabrics
• Layering pieces for temperature changes

Rainy Conditions

• Waterproof golf jacket (breathable fabric essential)
• Rain pants or waterproof shorts
• Umbrella (large golf-specific preferred)
• Extra gloves (wet gloves lose grip)

Dress Code by Course Type

Public/Municipal Courses

Like those found in Brown County and Portage County

Typical Requirements:

• Collared shirt (polo style acceptable)
• Golf shoes (athletic shoes often allowed)
• No tank tops or cut-offs
• Denim restrictions vary by course

What This Means: Most relaxed dress codes, perfect for beginners learning the game.

Semi-Private Courses

Typical Requirements:

• Golf attire strongly preferred
• Collared shirts required
• Proper golf shoes mandatory
• No denim anywhere on property

Private/Country Clubs

Typical Requirements:

• Strict adherence to golf attire
• Belts required with tucked-in shirts
• Specific color restrictions may apply
• Designer or upscale brands expected

Resort Courses

Popular at destinations near Wisconsin Dells area courses

Typical Requirements:

• Varies by location and season
• Generally more relaxed than private clubs
• Tourist-friendly policies
• Climate-appropriate flexibility

Budget-Friendly Golf Wardrobe Essentials

Starter Golf Wardrobe Under $200

Men’s Essential Starter Kit ($180):

• 3 polo shirts: $60 (Target, Costco, Amazon)
• 2 pairs golf shorts: $50 (khaki and navy)
• 1 pair golf pants: $30 (for cooler weather)
• Golf shoes: $40 (basic spikeless)

Women’s Essential Starter Kit ($190):

• 2 polo shirts: $40 (sleeveless and short sleeve)
• 2 golf skorts: $60 (navy and black)
• 1 pair golf pants: $35 (stretch fabric)
• Golf shoes: $55 (comfortable spikeless)

Money-Saving Shopping Tips

Best Times to Shop:

• End of summer sales (August-September)
• Pre-season clearance (February-March)
• Black Friday deals (November)
• End-of-model-year clearances

Where to Find Deals:

• Dick’s Sporting Goods – Regular sales and clearance
• Golf Galaxy – Golf-specific deals
• Amazon – Vast selection and competitive prices
• Outlet stores – Nike, Adidas, Under Armour outlets
• Local pro shops – End-of-season sales at courses

Common Dress Code Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Beginner Mistakes That Get You Turned Away:

1. Wearing Athletic Shorts
   • Basketball or running shorts aren’t golf attire
   • Invest in proper golf shorts with tailored fit
2. Choosing Wrong Shoe Types
   • Running shoes lack proper grip
   • Flip-flops or sandals (except golf sandals) prohibited
3. Ignoring Length Requirements
   • Shorts too short (above mid-thigh)
   • Skirts that don’t meet finger-tip test
4. Forgetting About Tucked Shirts
   • Many courses require shirts tucked in
   • Always bring a belt to be safe
5. Wearing Inappropriate Graphics
   • Avoid controversial, offensive, or overly casual designs
   • Keep it clean and classic

Dress Code Variations by Region and Season

Seasonal Considerations

Spring Golf (March-May):

• Layering is key for temperature changes
• Waterproof gear for unpredictable weather
• Lighter colors as weather warms

Summer Golf (June-August):

• Maximum breathability and UV protection
• Light colors to reflect heat
• Moisture-wicking fabrics essential

Fall Golf (September-November):

• Warmer layers for cooling temperatures
• Darker colors work well with season
• Prepare for wet conditions

Regional Differences

Northern Courses (like Wisconsin):

• More relaxed policies at public courses
• Weather-appropriate clothing emphasized
• Local courses in counties like Wood County typically welcome beginners

Southern Resort Areas:

• Year-round golf means consistent policies
• Higher emphasis on appearance
• Tourist-friendly but maintain standards

Special Situations and Dress Codes

Tournament Play

• Stricter dress codes typically enforced
• Conservative colors (white, navy, black) preferred
• Check specific tournament rules in advance

Corporate Golf Events

• Err on the side of more formal
• Business casual golf attire safest choice
• Represent your company professionally

Golf Lessons

• Comfortable, movement-friendly clothing
• Don’t wear your best outfit (you might get dirty)
• Focus on proper golf shoes for stability

Beginner-Friendly Courses

Many affordable courses throughout Wisconsin welcome new golfers and are understanding about dress code learning curves. Some recommended beginner-friendly options include:

• Family courses in Adams County with relaxed atmospheres
• Public courses in Outagamie County perfect for first-timers
• Budget-friendly options in Waupaca County with welcoming policies

Final Dress Code Checklist

Before Your First Round:

• Call the course to confirm specific dress code requirements
• Check weather forecast and dress appropriately
• Ensure clothes allow full range of motion for golf swing
• Bring backup options (extra shirt, light jacket)
• Pack sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

Essential Dress Code Rules:

• Collared shirt (polo style acceptable at most courses)
• Proper golf shoes (spikeless fine for beginners)
• Appropriate length shorts/skirts (finger-tip rule)
• Belt if course requires tucked-in shirts
• Conservative colors and styles when in doubt

Budget Checklist:

• Start with basics: 2-3 shirts, 2 bottoms, 1 pair shoes
• Shop sales and clearance sections
• Consider outlet stores for name brands
• Buy versatile pieces that mix and match
• Invest in comfort – you’ll be wearing these for 4+ hours

Conclusion: Dress for Success on the Golf Course

Golf dress codes don’t have to be intimidating or expensive. The key is understanding that these guidelines exist to maintain the sport’s traditions while ensuring everyone feels comfortable and welcome. Start with the basics, shop smart, and gradually build your golf wardrobe as you fall in love with the game.

Remember, most public courses – especially the affordable options throughout Wisconsin – are beginner-friendly and understanding. Focus on the fundamentals: collared shirt, appropriate bottoms, and golf shoes. Everything else can be added over time as you discover your style and preferences.

Ready to get started? Check out some beginner-friendly courses in your area where you can put your new golf attire knowledge to use. Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable – that’s when you’ll play your best golf!

Next up: Once you’re properly dressed, you’ll need the right equipment. Check out our complete guide to golf equipment for beginners to round out your golf game essentials.