You have a lot of choices ahead of you when you decide to start playing golf: driver or three-wood off the tee? Cart or caddie? Punch out or try to thread the needle? Performance joggers or tapered pants? We’re in golf’s performance era, and the fabrics, designs, and clothing options have caught up to the desires of the modern golfer.
I personally prefer wearing pants as opposed to shorts while golfing not only for the look, but because it also saves me time and money in applying sunscreen to my legs every round. It also lets me traipse into the long grass to find my errant tee-shots without the worry of getting scratched by a thorn or suffering a mosquito bite (or worse, a tick jumping for a ride on the back of my knee). They also protect me during those transitional weather rounds where the day may start at 70 degrees and sunny but end at 50 degrees and rainy. But no matter why you choose to opt for pants, we’ve gathered the best pairs for all kinds of golfing scenarios — from lightweight options and waterproof styles.
The Best Golf Pants for Men
I have tested a lot of golf pants over the years, and I keep coming back to G/FORE. While many of their products push the limits of style to modern (even loud) extremes, these pants are decidedly understated and simple. Underneath the low-key style, however, is a lot of thought and effort in the details. Their comfort, despite the slim silhouette, is undeniable and they provide full range of motion, whether you’re crouching to line up your putt or taking a big swing off the tee.
Unlike other “stretch” golf wear, each seam of these pants is reinforced and every pocket deep enough to be useful. I also can’t speak enough about their durability; while I keep multiple pairs in rotation, each comes out of the wash good as new, no matter how much sweat, dirt, and sand it caught. These pants make you look and feel like a pro, no matter your index.
The Details: Size 30-42 x 30-34 inches | Warp knit polyester
Bonobos really does anticipate the needs of their customers, and when it comes to their Highland Tour Golf Pant, they have thought of nearly everything. With nine different colors, twelve waist sizes, five inseam lengths, and five fits to choose from (tailored, slim taper, slim, athletic, and straight), as well as innovative features like a gripping waistband, secure pockets, eyelets for breathability, and UPF 50, there is truly a pair for everyone. These are my go-to for the spring and fall when it’s a bit cooler for morning rounds, but they would be just as comfortable on a summer day with a breeze.
The Details: Size 28-46 x 28-36 inches | Polyester and elastane
Adidas makes some of my favorite golf gear, from their amazing new S2G shoes to their swing-friendly outerwear, so it’s no surprise that they make a solid pair of pants, too. What may be a surprise is that these seemingly standard pants are also incredibly lightweight and breathable. Made of recycled polyester and elastane, they are lighter and airier than similar pairs. But most importantly, the fabric is spun thin enough to quick-dry and not show sweat. With a nice tapered ankle and plenty of stretch, they’ll serve you well on hot and humid days.
The Details: Size 28-44 x 30-34 | Polyester and elastane
These new trousers bring the legacy of Lululemon’s storied ABC line into the golf world. With the stretch and ventilation you’d expect, these pants stand up to a long day in the sun with UPF 40 protection and stay functional and comfortable. The pockets have the right space for balls, tees, and scorecards, and your motion will never be restricted while swinging or crouching to grab the six-inch gimmie off the green.
The Details: Size 28-40 x 30-34 | Nylon and elastane
Some see joggers, or tapered cuffed trousers, as too casual for golf, but the True Lux Joggers are possibly the best argument as to why they are essential. These don’t look like sweatpants or training pants, their design gives you a clean, modern aesthetic to compliment upleveling your game. The fabric rivals others in comfort, with anti-wrinkle and moisture-wicking technology to make them viable all day: from client meeting to the course to nighttime drinks. The details are there too; from belt loops that let you dress them up, to zippered and reinforced pockets that keep your phone, tees, and scorecard protected if it’s a rainy day.
The Details: Size 28-38 | Polyester and spandex
Before I was an enthusiastic golfer, I was a caddie. And when you’re caddying, you don’t get to decide if it’s too rainy to play, you have to carry the bag if your golfer wanted to brave the elements. So whether you’re the looper or the duffer, a pair of waterproof pants is essential. The FootJoy Hydrolite X pants are truly waterproof and sealed; yet, unlike most rain pants, they are breathable and don’t require an under layer. This is a huge advantage that allows for unrestricted movement. Plus, they are designed with a handsome look that doesn’t scream “rain pants.”
The Details: Size XS-3XL
As a taller man, I have to be careful about shorter inseam lengths, so I was skeptical of Radmor’s James pants at first, but after trying them on, and wearing them for a few rounds, I’m a convert. They take some additional effort to style to ensure the pleats and cuffs look fashionable and not too short, but once you do, you’ll enjoy a truly comfortable round. Plus, they have hidden zipper pockets as well as a back ball pocket and are UPF 50+ for added protection for a full day in the sun.
The Details: Size 30-38 | Cotton, lyocell, and elastane
The Best Golf Pants for Women
While many women prefer golfing in skirts or skorts as opposed to pants, the Macade joggers are our go-to bottoms this season. Form-fitting, but comfortable; stretchy, but structured; and in colors that go with any look, these hit all our target requirements. Available in short, regular, and long inseams, they can be styled a few different ways. And with the little details like zippered cuffs and a gel-grip interior waistband to keep your shirt tucked in, Macade has made a strong statement in favor of pants over skorts.
The Details: XS-XL, short, regular, and long inseams | Polyester and spandex
Callaway makes all kinds of golf gear, but their apparel has been a secret favorite of women for years now. These popular pants are chock full of features: TrueSculpt stretch fabric for unrestricted movement, Opti-dri, moisture-wicking technology for hotter days on the course, four functional pockets for all your tees and markers, and a pull-on waist for added comfort all day. While they may be a bit tighter than other trousers, they come in regular and plus sizes, various lengths, and feature a more generous leg cut that makes them a versatile pair of pants that can work for the office as well.
The Details: Size XS-XXL, short, regular, and long | Viscose, nylon, and elastane
Some golfers may love capris as a style between shorts and pants, while others may prefer a full length style for the course. These PGA Tour branded pants are comfortable and feature a golf-forward design at a reasonable price point. With a generous amount of stretch built in from the waistband to the legs, they have all-day comfort no matter the temperature. Plus, they offer sun protection as well as built-in shapewear.
The Details: Size XS-XL | Polyester and spandex
Lululemon’s Warpstreme Multi-pocket Mid-rise Golf Pants have a simple, yet effective design made with the brand’s classic soft fabric. These fall away from your body, as opposed to snugly against your skin, and have the golf-ready pockets you need to hold your tees and scorecard. Their length is mid-rise at the waist so you’re fully covered in your swing and range of motion, while having an ankle-length inseam for those not in favor of capris or crops. You can even attach your glove to the loops on the waistband when you approach the green for that birdie putt.
The Details: Size 0-14 | Polyester and elastomultiester
These Adidas joggers don’t have cuffed ankles, so they truly deliver a comfort-first performance on and off the course. They also have a distinct advantage being mostly spun from cotton, with its superior breathability augmented by synthetic fibers for stretch and comfort. Their pockets are generous, the pleats are stylish, and the drawstring waist helps them fit every player, while they allow for full movement during your round swing after swing. They can get a little caught up during high winds, but that’s a standard trade-off for any relaxed fit pant on the course.
The Details: Size XS-XL | Cotton, polyester, and elastane
You may not need a dedicated pair of rain pants for golf if you’re just a casual warm-weather golfer, but when you have the drive to play on some of the best courses in the world all year long, weather can be as unpredictable as your short game. So to be prepared, you’ll want a pair of rain-proof pants in your bag, and Nike’s Tour Repel pants are our favorites. Fully waterproof, but made with a slim and stylish jeans-like design, you’ll look good even if the rain is horizontal while you tee off. While sizes are limited and the fit can be a little tight, they are by far the best at keeping you dry.
The Details: Size 0 -18 | Polyester
Leggings without a skirt are not allowed on some courses, and even if they are, some women may prefer to dress them up for a round. While there are many two-in-one options for a leggings and skirt combo, the Calia Energize feature a highly-rated design that is well-priced, comfortable, and ready for a run at the course record. With the right pockets, incredibly soft and quick-drying fabric, and odor-inhibiting technology, this flattering high-rise leggings and skirt combo may be a little warm for the hottest summer days, but is perfect for nearly the rest of the year.
The Details: Size XS-XXL | Nylon and lycra
Tips for Buying Golf Pants
Prioritize the fit
Just like any piece of clothing worn during a sport, your pants need to meet the needs of the game. Be sure they are comfortable as you’ll be spending upwards of four hours in them across nearly eight miles. A good pair of golf pants should not restrict movement during your swing, so make sure you’re not having to pull them up or stretch them out after every shot. And when going for the right fit, consider how you like them to sit on your shoe; there are lots of options in lengths, but no one likes a bunched up cuff dragging behind your spiked heels.
Don’t forget pockets
Not every golfer has a caddie to carry their extra balls or a cart to stash their tees and scorecard. Be sure to consider how you get around the course when thinking of pants. I prefer a pair with a deep back pocket for my scorecard, but shallower front pockets so that if I stash extra balls in them, they don’t get in the way of my wrists during my swing. And if you keep your phone on you, a zippered pocket may be best during all the bending, crouching, and movement that happens over the course of eighteen holes.
Think about waterproof options
Golf is a surprisingly wet sport, from the hazards themselves (which you hopefully won’t be wading in to), to things like morning dew, freshly watered fairways, and the ever-present rain showers. Most modern pants have some amount of water-resistant coating and can hold up to small amounts of water or sweat getting on them without issue, so look for those features when buying. But when your home course is known for their rain or you’re planning a trip to a more unpredictable climate, know that you may want to invest in a shell layer or build-in pair of rain pants.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the best golf pants material?
While most modern pants are now made of a blend of synthetic materials, including polyester and nylon for structure and elastane for stretch, there are also plenty that use cotton for its breathability and comfort. It all comes down to fit, with natural fibers being better for looser pants, and synthetic better for more slim and tailored looks.
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What kind of pants are acceptable on the golf course?
Every course and club is different, your local muni will likely be a lot more relaxed on dress code than the private club nearby, so always ask or check before you play. That being said, pants are a safe bet for nearly all courses, with a few callouts. In recent years, jeans-like five pocket pants have exploded in popularity on the course. Joggers are usually okay, but not for more traditional courses. Leggings will often be listed as not acceptable unless they are covered by some form of skirt.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Red Fabbri has spent his life as both a caddie and a golfer. Never a fan of shorts, he’s worn countless pairs of ugly, baggy, pleated khakis on various golf courses before finding the best pants to wear in the past few years. He also worked with the help of trusted friends to help him find the best golf pants for women as well as men for every weather and occasion.
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