Golf is built on tradition, and how you dress on the course is part of honoring the game’s longstanding etiquette. But during the summer months, that tradition needs to meet practicality. Choosing the right gear can make all the difference between a comfortable round and one spent battling the heat.
Whether you’re teeing off at Burlingame Country Club or traveling to another course, the key is to strike the right balance between staying cool and meeting the dress code. The right apparel not only keeps you comfortable—it also supports your movement and focus throughout the day.
When planning your outfit, stick with breathable fabrics that offer sun protection. Clothing designed to wick away moisture will help you stay dry and energized. Below, we’ll cover the must-have items for your summer golf wardrobe, so you’re ready for warm-weather rounds without sacrificing comfort or style.
Summer Staples for the Golf Course
Dress for Comfort and Compliance
When dressing for hot weather golf, think lightweight, breathable, and functional. Focus on moisture-wicking shirts, structured shorts or skorts, and sun-smart accessories like hats and sunglasses. Just as important—make sure your outfit aligns with the dress code at your club. Staying comfortable and meeting the club’s expectations go hand-in-hand when you’re on the course.
Shirts That Work as Hard as You Do
A proper golf shirt is your best friend in summer conditions. Look for polos made from technical fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin and allow airflow. Shirts with built-in UV protection are ideal for shielding you from sun exposure during long rounds.
Polos remain the go-to style at most clubs, combining the professional appearance golfers expect with the comfort you need in warm weather. A good fit matters too—nothing too tight or too baggy, just enough give to allow full range of motion through every swing.
Shorts, Skorts, and Staying Cool from the Waist Down
Lower-body comfort is key when temperatures spike. Men should choose golf shorts with a tailored fit and lightweight stretch fabric that allows ease of movement. For women, skorts are a great option—they offer the classic look of a skirt with the practicality of shorts built in.
Just be sure your bottoms meet your club’s length requirements—typically around mid-thigh or just above the knee. The goal is to beat the heat while still maintaining that clean, country club-ready look.
Summer-Ready Shoes and Accessories
Hot weather calls for golf shoes that offer both support and breathability. Many summer-specific styles feature mesh panels, lightweight soles, and moisture-wicking linings to keep your feet cool and blister-free. Spikeless shoes are especially popular in warm months, offering versatility and all-day comfort whether you’re on the green or heading to lunch.
Don’t forget the finishing touches. Sunglasses with full UV protection are essential for eye health and clarity in bright conditions. A lightweight hat—whether a classic cap or wide-brim option—adds welcome shade. And keeping a water bottle or electrolyte drink in your bag helps you stay sharp through every hole.
Trusted Brands for Beating the Heat
When it comes to staying cool on the course, choosing the right brand makes all the difference. These popular picks among golfers are known for offering breathable fabrics, moisture control, and smart design—perfect for long rounds in the sun.
- Peter Millar – Offers the Summer Comfort collection: polos and performance shorts built for humid conditions with stretch and UPF protection.
- FootJoy – Breathable golf shoes like the Pro|SL Sport and Fuel Sport, along with moisture-wicking polos and gloves designed for all-day summer play.
- Adidas Golf – The Ultimate365 line features polos and shorts made for warm-weather mobility and modern athletic styling.
- Nike Golf – Dri-FIT polos and Flex shorts help manage sweat and heat, ideal for players who prefer a sport-focused look and feel.
- Antigua – Polos and skorts with Desert Dry™ moisture-wicking fabric that performs well in dry summer conditions while maintaining a clean, traditional style.
- Ecco Golf – Golf shoes like the BIOM C4 combine Gore-Tex Surround ventilation and waterproofing—great for walking rounds in the summer heat.
Each of these brands brings high-performing materials and smart summer-focused designs to the course, helping you stay cool, dry, and comfortable from the first hole to the last.
Dress Codes: What They Are and Why They Matter
Club Guidelines Every Golfer Should Know
Each course may have its own set of dress rules, but most follow similar standards. Collared shirts are almost always required. Denim and overly casual attire are generally not allowed. For men, the expectation is typically a tucked-in polo paired with tailored golf shorts or pants. For women, sleeveless tops may be acceptable if they’re designed for golf and paired with skorts, skirts, or shorts that meet the club’s standards.
Adhering to dress codes isn’t just about following rules—it shows respect for the club, your fellow golfers, and the traditions of the sport.
Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Golf Attire
While many expectations apply to both men and women, there are subtle differences. Men’s attire usually leans more classic and uniform, with clean lines, collared shirts, and coordinated accessories. Women’s golf wear tends to allow for a bit more variety and color—sleeveless polos, patterned skorts, and dresses are all acceptable, as long as they meet the club’s standards for fit and length.
No matter your style, choosing apparel made from performance materials will help you stay cool and composed throughout your round.
Beat the Heat: Staying Comfortable in Hot Conditions
Choose the Right Fabric
Not all materials are created equal when it comes to summer golf. Look for shirts, shorts, and outer layers made from polyester blends or other synthetic fabrics that are specifically engineered to wick moisture and promote airflow. These fabrics dry quickly, keep you cooler, and help prevent overheating.
Also, be mindful of sun exposure. Many modern golf clothes include built-in UV protection. Look for pieces with a high UPF, (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating to add an extra layer of defense against harmful rays.
Pro Tips to Stay Cool on the Course
Besides your clothing, a few smart habits can help you beat the heat. Hydration is at the top of the list—make a habit of sipping water or a sports drink with electrolytes consistently throughout your round. Choose breathable accessories, like mesh-backed hats or cooling towels you can drape over your neck.
Apply sunscreen before you tee off and reapply as needed, especially on longer days. Lightweight golf umbrellas can also provide on-the-go shade when needed. Every bit of protection helps when the sun is high and the course is wide open.
Wearing the right gear does more than keep you cool—it builds confidence, sharpens focus, and makes every round more enjoyable. When your clothes fit well and perform under pressure, you’re free to concentrate on your swing, your strategy, and the company you’re with. High-quality golf apparel doesn’t just elevate your performance today—it holds up season after season, reducing mid-round distractions and letting you enjoy everything Burlingame Country Club has to offer.
At Burlingame Country Club, we believe comfort, performance, and respect for tradition go hand in hand. Whether you’re a longtime member or stepping onto the course for the first time, our facilities are designed to deliver a world-class experience from the first tee to the last putt.
Click here to experience summer golf at its finest.