Golf in the heat can be exhausting. Four or five hours in the sun, often with little shade, puts a real strain on your body. The right clothing makes a big difference: it keeps you cooler, protects your skin and helps you stay focused for all 18 holes. Here's how to dress for hot-weather golf.
Fabrics
- Polyester performance fabrics: wick sweat and dry fast.
- Mesh panels: improve airflow under the arms and across the back.
- Lightweight cotton blends: comfortable in dry heat but stay damp in humidity.
- Avoid heavy cotton: it holds sweat and becomes heavy.
Colours
Light colours such as white, pastels and light grey reflect sunlight and feel cooler. Dark colours absorb heat. Many golfers choose light trousers or shorts in summer.
Sun protection
| Item | Benefit |
|---|---|
| UPF polo or long-sleeved top | Protects arms and torso |
| Wide-brimmed or bucket hat | Protects face, ears and neck |
| Arm sleeves | Sun protection that can be removed |
| Sunglasses | Protect eyes and reduce glare |
| Sunscreen | Exposed skin, reapplied regularly |
Read sun protection for golfers, golf hats and caps and golf sunglasses guide.
Shorts or trousers?
Shorts feel cooler, but lightweight trousers protect your legs from the sun. Both work if the fabric is light. Read golf trousers and shorts.
Cooling accessories
- Cooling towels: soak, wring and drape around your neck.
- Cooling hats and caps that can be soaked.
- Neck gaiters that protect from sun and can be wetted.
- Umbrella for shade between shots.
Shoes and socks
- Breathable golf shoes with mesh uppers.
- Thin, wicking socks. Read golf socks.
- Spare socks on very hot, humid days.
Gloves in the heat
Sweaty hands affect grip. Carry two or three gloves and rotate them, letting each dry. Some golfers prefer gloves designed for hot or wet conditions. Read golf gloves guide.
Dress codes in hot climates
Courses in hot regions often have relaxed rules on shorts and lighter clothing, but collared shirts are still common. Check before you travel. Read warm-weather golf destinations in the USA.
Beyond clothing
Clothing is only part of the solution:
- Drink water constantly and use electrolytes.
- Play early or late to avoid the hottest hours.
- Use a cart on very hot days.
- Recognise signs of heat illness, such as dizziness, headache or nausea, and stop playing.
Read hot-weather golf.
Frequently asked questions
What's the coolest thing to wear for golf?
Lightweight, light-coloured, breathable polos and shorts, with a hat and sunscreen.
Do arm sleeves keep you cooler?
Many golfers find they do, especially when wet, while also protecting from the sun.
Should I wear a cap or a wide-brimmed hat?
A wide brim protects more skin; a cap is cooler for some. Use sunscreen either way.
The bottom line
Dress for hot-weather golf with breathable, light-coloured fabrics, sun-protective hats and sleeves, and cooling accessories. Combine good clothing with hydration and sensible timing, and you'll stay comfortable all round. For winter, read golf layering guide.