If you are new to golf, you may be surprised to learn that appropriate attire is required. Most golf courses have a dress code that must be adhered to, even if you are simply showing up for a golf lesson.
Not knowing what to wear to your first golf lesson can be stressful. Our goal with this article is to help you with that. Here’s a look at what to wear and avoid at your golf lessons.
What’s Acceptable to Wear to a Golf Lesson
Men
If you’re a guy who’s taking your first golf lesson, you must make sure you are wearing some type of collared shirt. This is because most golf courses have a dress code that requires collared shirts for men. A short-sleeved polo shirt or a standard golf shirt are excellent choices for your first lesson.
As far as bottoms, men can decide between long pants or shorts. If the weather is on the cooler side, consider wearing either khakis or some type of slacks. If it’s in the heat of summer, any type of golf shorts are perfectly acceptable at most clubs.
As far as footwear goes, things are pretty flexible. Some golfers like to wear tennis shoes while on the driving range while others will opt for golf shoes. If you choose to wear golf shoes to your first lesson, opt for ones with soft spikes because metal spikes aren’t allowed at some courses.
Women
Women golfers have a few more options as far as the top goes. At most clubs, ladies can wear sleeveless tops as long as the shirt has a collar. Women can also choose to wear a turtleneck or crew-neck top if it has sleeves.
As far as the bottoms, ladies can choose from golfing pants, golf shorts, or a skirt. Another option is skorts, which is a combination between a skirt and shorts. As a general rule, skirts or shorts must come down to around the knee.
Footwear choices for women golfers are the same as men’s. Any type of golf shoes or tennis shoes is acceptable, as long as they are spikeless or have soft spikes. Socks that are about ankle high are also a good idea.
What You Should Never Wear to a Golf Lesson
Men
While some golf courses have relaxed their respective dress codes over the last few years, the large majority of them don’t allow any type of denim. So, unfortunately, this means no blue jeans or blue jean shorts. It’s also a good idea not to show up in workout shorts (aka basketball shorts).
As far as the top goes, men should never show up to a golf lesson in t-shirts or tank tops. While both of these are very comfortable, neither one is considered to be proper golfing attire. Remember, golf is a gentleman’s game and you aren’t at the gym.
For footwear, never show up to your lesson in flip-flops or sandals. If you do, make sure you have golf shoes to change into before meeting your instructor. It’s also smart to wear socks to prevent blisters from getting on your feet.
Women
While stylish off the course, women shouldn’t wear capris to a golf lesson. They also should avoid denim shorts and denim skirts, even though a few courses may allow them. They also should avoid shorts or skirts that are too short.
As far as the top goes, ladies should never show up wearing only a sports bra. While this is perfectly fine at almost any gym, it’s not considered proper golf etiquette.
To avoid footwear faux pas, don’t show up to your lesson in boots or heels. This is basic common sense, but as they say, common sense ain’t common these days.
Other Things to Bring to a Lesson
Like a lot of other sports, golf requires lots of accessories. Let’s go over some of the most important accessories to bring with you to your golf lessons.
1. Visor or Baseball Cap
While no headgear is required at a golf lesson, it’s not a bad idea to wear a baseball cap or a visor. This is especially true if your lesson is going to be outdoors. A quality cap or visor will keep both the sun and sweat out of your eyes.
2. Sunglasses
Again, sunglasses aren’t essential but they are nice to have on extremely sunny days at the driving range. I don’t wear sunglasses during my golf lessons because I feel it messes with my depth perception when looking at the ball. That said, a countless number of golfers wear sunglasses both on the course and during their golf lessons.
3. Golf Glove
This one is an essential item because you want to have a good grip on the golf club. During a golf lesson, your golf instructor will be asking you to make several swings. Without a quality golf glove, you’ll likely get an uncomfortable blister or two.
4. Sunscreen
It always pays to have sunscreen in your golf bag, especially during the warmer months. A nasty sunburn is not only incredibly painful but it’s also unhealthy for your skin.
5. Sweaters or Jackets
Either of these will come in handy during the winter months. You don’t want to get too cold on the driving range during your golf lesson. Just make sure that your sweater or jacket fits loosely and doesn’t restrict your golf swing in any way.
6. Bottle of Water
Most golf lessons range from 30 minutes to an hour. You’ll want to have water on hand to stay hydrated during your breaks. The last thing you want is to start cramping up during your golf lesson because of dehydration.
7. A Couple of Golf Towels
It’s nice to keep a couple of golf towels on hand for your golf lessons. You can use one to wipe sweat from your head and arms and the other to clean off your irons after using them.
Mike Noblin
Mike has been involved with sports for over 30 years. He’s been an avid golfer for more than 10 years and is obsessed with watching the Golf Channel and taking notes on a daily basis. He also holds a degree in Sports Psychology.