Shirts

Finding the Right Golf Shirt

The polo shirt is the foundation of any golfer's wardrobe, worn every round and expected to look smart while performing in everything from summer heat to a cool breeze. The right shirt keeps you comfortable, moves with your swing, and meets the dress code at any course. At Tony Valentine Golf we stock golf shirts from the world's leading brands, including adidas, Puma, Nike, Under Armour, FootJoy, Ping, and Castore.

Below you will find everything you need to choose with confidence, from understanding performance fabrics to getting the right fit and meeting course dress codes.

Performance Fabrics Explained

Modern golf shirts are built from technical fabrics designed to keep you comfortable through a full round. Moisture-wicking material draws sweat away from the skin and helps it evaporate, keeping you dry and cool when the temperature rises. Lightweight, breathable knits improve airflow, while a degree of stretch lets the shirt move freely with your swing rather than restricting your shoulders.

Many shirts add useful extras such as UV protection for long summer rounds, anti-odour treatments to stay fresh, and easy-care fabrics that resist creasing and wash well. The result is a shirt that performs far better than a traditional cotton polo, staying comfortable from the first tee to the last putt.

Getting the Right Fit

Fit is a matter of both comfort and preference. A regular or classic fit offers a relaxed, traditional cut that suits most golfers and allows easy movement. A slim or tailored fit sits closer to the body for a sharper, more modern look, favoured by players who prefer a streamlined style. Whichever you choose, the key is that the shoulders and arms allow a full, unrestricted swing.

It is worth checking the cut of the sleeves and the length of the body too, as a shirt that rides up or pulls across the back during your swing will distract you. If you are between sizes or unsure of a brand's cut, our team in store can help you find the right size and style.

Dressing for the Course and the Weather

A collared polo shirt meets the dress code at the vast majority of clubs, making it the safe, smart choice for any round. As the weather changes, your shirt is the base of a layering system. On cooler days, add a mid-layer over the top, and when it turns wet, a waterproof jacket keeps you dry. Pair your shirt with golf trousers or shorts to complete the look.

Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Shirts

Do I have to wear a collared shirt to play golf?

Most golf clubs have a dress code that requires a collared polo shirt, so it is the safest choice for any course. Some relaxed or modern venues allow tasteful collarless performance shirts, but a collared polo will always be accepted. If you are unsure of a particular club's rules, a traditional polo keeps you covered.

What fabric is best for a golf shirt?

Technical synthetic fabrics, often polyester blends, are best for performance. They wick moisture, dry quickly, breathe well, and stretch with your swing, keeping you comfortable through a round. Many also add UV protection and anti-odour treatments. These outperform traditional cotton, which holds moisture and can feel heavy and clammy once you start to sweat.

What is the difference between a slim and regular fit?

A regular or classic fit has a relaxed, traditional cut with more room through the body, suiting most golfers and allowing easy movement. A slim or tailored fit sits closer to the body for a sharper, modern look. Both should allow a full swing, so the choice comes down to the style and feel you prefer.

How should a golf shirt fit for swinging?

A golf shirt should be comfortable through the shoulders and arms so you can make a full, unrestricted swing without the fabric pulling or riding up. The body should be long enough to stay tucked in through your motion. Whether you prefer a slim or regular fit, freedom of movement across the back and shoulders is the most important thing.

Visit Tony Valentine Golf

If you would like help finding the right shirt, size, or brand, our team is happy to advise. Browse our full range below, or get in touch and visit us in store at our Corsham or Swindon centre.