When you start thinking about playing golf, you are bound to discover a bunch of new rules. Not all of them have to do with swinging, clubbing, birdies, pars, and eagles. One of the things many amateur golfers worry about is a dress code.
The majority of municipal golf courses don’t have any rules about the way you should dress. However, when it comes to private golf clubs, you can face a dress code. To tell you more, each club may have its own. Thankfully, the basic points are usually the same.
Buying special clothing to go and play golf may seem annoying. Why do golfers have a dress code? Why can’t they settle for a pair of sweats and a sweatshirt, sneakers or simple workout gear? After all, isn’t it much more comfortable than polo shirts, slacks, and special shoes?
Let’s look at a few simple reasons why some golf clubs are strict about maintaining a dress code.
A Tribute To Tradition
Yes, traditions are hard to break. The first golf games, as we know them, date back to the 15th century. Ancient golf originated much earlier than that. The game had several centuries to grow and develop and so have the traditions around it.
Initially, golf was the game played by royalty and the elite. Each game was a special event at which the nobility didn’t just have fun. They used it as an opportunity to discuss important matters. Coming to the golf course dressed inappropriately was out of the question.
If you would arrive at the golf game looking less than impeccable, the consequences could be dire, starting from unpleasant rumors and ending with the dissatisfaction of the king.
That’s why with time, a certain dress code emerged and players made sure to follow it closely.
As centuries passed, and the golf game turned into an entertaining event accessible to more and more people, players didn’t want to change tradition. Even in the 21st century, playing golf is still associated with belonging to the elite part of society.
At many golf courses on the planet, everything that’s left from the old glory days is the dress code. So why let it go?
2. Players’ Comfort and Safety
While in the 15th century, the comfort of the players was rarely considered, with time, it became more and more important. What may seem to be a tribute to tradition is often a smart way to add comfort and safety to the players.
· Golf hat or cap – protects the player from the sun while the visor shields the eyes from direct sunlight to help make a good swing.
· Collared shirt or polo – a collar is an excellent way to protect your neck from the sunshine and avoid sunburn.
· Special golf shoes – ensure comfort on the course for hours without slipping or damaging the grass.
· Slacks or pants – provide freedom of movement, protection from the sunrays, and proper ventilation.
As golf attire experts at The Golf Society point out, it makes sense to follow the common dress code even if the club doesn’t demand it. Wearing attire made specifically for playing golf, can make your game comfortable and increase your chances of achieving better results.
Following the Dress Code
In the 21st century, following the golf club’s dress code is easier than it may seem. If you wear a collared shirt, slacks, and golf shoes without metal spikes, you are likely to be accepted to the majority of golf clubs.
However, when choosing your outfit, you should also think about your comfort. Opting for a beautiful collared shirt may seem nice, but how practical is it? Perhaps a polo shirt made out of special sweat-wicking fabric is a better choice?
Designers all over the world go out of their way to produce new golf attire collections every year. It’s up to you to figure out which one suits you best. If you are planning to spend the entire day on the golf course, you have to make sure your clothing doesn’t interfere with your game.
Besides following the dress code, you have to protect your skin from the sun. Meanwhile, you should dress appropriately in cold or rainy weather. No matter how strict your club is about the dress code, it’s likely to relax its rules when it comes to rain suits or overcoats.
Knowing When To Chang’Em
When you are planning your outfit for the next game, consider having a change of clothing with you. Extra socks and shirts are a must-have.
A day at the golf club often entails a dinner or a cup of coffee inside the building. You don’t want to sit at the table sweaty with your paints stained by grass. That’s why you should have a change of clothing that suits the club’s dress code.
No matter how well you know the dress code, it’s important to call the club in advance or visit the website to check the details. Each golf club may have its own dress code nuances, which could become the cause of ruined plans.
Final Thoughts
The dress code for golfers goes back several centuries to the time when it was the game of nobility. Over the years, the rules have changed, and a certain way of dressing has become a tribute to tradition. Following a dress code can also keep you safe and comfortable on the course all day long.
