How Should a Golf Shirt Fit?

Dressing for the course means focusing on fashion and function

Golf courses all around the world may differ in terms of difficulty and terrain, but most have one thing in common – their dress code. Golfers have the unique dilemma of building a wardrobe that’s functional and comfortable but still adheres to the rules. A key element of any golf ensemble is the golf shirt.

Golf shirts are designed like polo shirts; they both have short sleeves, collars, and a short placket of a few buttons. But the similarities stop there. A polo shirt is designed for fashion and you might choose the one you like based only on the color or the cut. But golf shirts are designed for performance. Golfers need shirts that are breathable and whisk away sweat during hours of play. And golf shirts should allow players to move freely without inhibiting their swings. So, how exactly should a golf shirt fit?

Golf shirt fitting basics – overall fit

First, you should pin down the overall fit. Slim golf shirts are popular right now, as they can flatter your physique, and they can easily transition to the country club restaurant once you’re done on the course. But it’s important to make sure your golf shirt isn’t too slim. You need to be able to move. You shouldn’t feel like your swing is restricted because your shirt is just too tight.

You can check this by sliding your finger between your sleeve and your skin. If you can do this easily, you’re on track. But if you have to wedge your finger up there, it’s time to go up a size. You can also gauge overall fit by your neckline. When it’s unbuttoned, it should come down to the top of the chest. If it falls higher than that, your golf shirt is likely too small. And vice versa, if the unbuttoned neckline goes down much further, your shirt is too big.

Shoulders and length

Additionally, you want to double-check your golf shirt fit by assessing your shoulders. The shoulder seam should sit right at the shoulder bone. The fit of your sleeve should be slim but not tight, and you want the sleeve to fall somewhere around the upper bicep. You want the freedom to open up your swing without your shirt wrapping around your arm like a suction cup.

Your golf shirt should be a little longer than the average polo. You’ll be tucking in your shirt, and you want it to stay tucked. If it’s too short, you’ll find yourself tucking it back in after every swing. A longer golf shirt gives you the peace of mind that you can tuck it once and that’s it.

If you check these key areas – your overall fit, your shoulders, and your length – you can rest assured that you’ve landed on the right golf shirt size and fit.

Big Country’s Performance Polo was designed to address all the common headaches associated with golf shirts. Learn more about the Polo and shop it in several colors here.