And if you’re planning on spending some serious time in the sun, look for golf pants with UV protection. This can be a lifesaver during those extra-long rounds (yes, you can be sunburned through pants).
Style: There are a bunch of different styles you can choose from, depending on your taste (and the dress code of the course you’re playing at). In the end, showing out on the golf course is what we’re all about—if you look good and feel good, you’re going to have a better time.
If you’re aiming for a classic, polished look, go for traditional golf pants. These usually have straight legs, pleats, and a higher rise, making them look more formal. But if you want something more modern and athletic, check out golf pants like the Lululemon or Manors pants we mentioned above. These have a straight or tapered fit and come in a bunch of different colors that you can pair with anything you already own.
Fit: Comfort and freedom of movement are key. You don’t want pants that are too tight or too loose on the links. Find pants with enough space in the waist, hips, and thighs to move around easily, especially when taking a swing or hopping in and out of a deep bunker. A slightly tapered leg can give a modern look without being too restrictive, but we love a straight-fit pant for golf, too. Many golf pants have adjustable waistbands or a bit of stretch for a snug yet comfortable fit.
How We Tested
We’ve obviously been lifelong style fiends, but, believe it or not, we’ve got some lifelong golf fiends on staff at GQ, too. They have been rocking different pants across the years, working out what fits make the most sense for a round of golf, which materials are best for each season, and which pairs go best with our golf wardrobes. In the end, our main focus is how they make us feel, both mentally and physically. Do we sweat too much? Do we think about our pants more than we think about our swing? Do we feel self-conscious in these? We’ve trodden all of this ground before, and are continuing to test into the future to keep this story up to date.
