Over the past few years, there has been a significant shift in the design, technology, construction, and performance of golf shirts. The greatest men’s golf shirts of today manage to be lightweight, cozy, and stylish while hitting the fairways.
The days of having to wear bulky, uninspired golf apparel are long gone, as most firms now produce stylish, contemporary designs that allow us to concentrate entirely on our games while still looking nice. In terms of comfort, moisture wicking, and ensuring that the shirt doesn’t impede swinging, new technologies have emerged. The greatest models frequently offer anti-odor protection, aid in preventing UV rays, and have designs that appeal to a variety of fashion tastes.
In this article, we’ll go over the common golf shirt materials like cotton, polyester, spandex, and performance blends. We’ll help you find the premium golf shirt fabric choices to keep you cool, dry, and focused on your game instead of your sweaty clothes. Get ready to learn about moisture-wicking, stretch, breathability, and more; you’ll be armed with the knowledge to find your perfect golf shirt fabric.
What are Golf Shirts Made Out of?
Various textiles are used depending on the kind of apparel. Merino wool is a common choice for golf shirts. You want a high-quality, lightweight material for types of shorts and polo shirts, like polyester, cotton blends, or cotton. Additionally, you may come across golf apparel composed of rayon or spandex.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Golf Shirt Fabric
When picking out golf shirts, the material is key. The best material for golf shirts keeps you comfortable on the course all day long.
Breathability
You’ll be active and in the sun, so breathable, lightweight materials are a must. Natural fibers, like cotton, are great for breathability. Polyester blends can also work well and wick away moisture. Avoid non-breathable fabrics like nylon, which won’t keep you cool.
Durability
Golf shirts also need to be durable to withstand frequent use and washing. Cotton holds up well over time and many washes. Polyester is also durable and resistant to fading. For the most durable options, look for materials like cotton-polyester blends.
UV protection
Don’t forget about UV protection! Look for fabrics that offer an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of at least 30, which blocks 97% of UV radiation. Polyester and nylon provide natural UV protection. Cotton needs to be treated to improve its UV resistance.
Style
Lastly, consider how the fabric complements your style. Cotton and polyester blends are comfortable golf shirt materials but also come in stylish cuts and prints, perfect for the golf course. Performance fabrics like breathable nylon can work too if you prefer an athletic style.
With so many excellent options for golf shirt fabrics like cotton, polyester, and their blends, you can’t go wrong. Focus on breathability, durability, and UV protection, then choose a fabric in a style you like. Your perfect golf shirt is out there waiting for you!
What is the Best Fabric For a Golf Shirt?
When it comes to golf shirts, you have a few options for fabrics. Let’s go over the popular choices so you can decide what’s right for you.
Cotton
Cotton has been a staple fabric for men’s golf shirts for decades. The soft, breathable fibers make cotton an ideal choice for staying comfortable on the course.
Comfort
Cotton is praised for how soft and cozy it feels against the skin. The natural fibers are non-irritating and help wick moisture away from your body as you play, keeping you dry. Cotton also breathes well, allowing for airflow to help regulate your temperature. Whether you’re walking 18 holes on a hot summer day or just hitting the driving range, a cotton golf shirt will keep you feeling cool and fresh.
Easy Care
Cotton is a very low-maintenance fabric. It’s machine washable, so your cotton golf shirts can be tossed in with the rest of your laundry. Cotton can typically be dried in the dryer as well, though you may want to air-dry some shirts to avoid any shrinkage. Ironing cotton shirts is also quite easy since the fabric presses well. With some minimal care and the occasional ironing, your cotton golf shirts will look crisp and wrinkle-free.
Affordability
Cotton is an inexpensive material, keeping costs down for golf shirt manufacturers and consumers. High-quality cotton golf shirts can still be purchased at an affordable price point. The lower cost also means that cotton shirts tend to require replacement more often. However, for a classic, comfortable golf shirt that gets lots of use, cotton is a budget-friendly choice.
Cotton golf shirts have been a popular option for decades thanks to their breathability, softness, and easy care. For a timeless, well-made shirt perfect for the course, you can’t go wrong with trusty cotton. While new performance fabrics continue to emerge, cotton remains a staple material that provides comfort and value.
Fleece
Fleece is a popular choice for men’s golf shirts because it’s comfortable, breathable, and helps regulate temperature. Lightweight fleece is great for layering under a jacket on chilly days or wearing on its own in warmer weather. Made from polyester fibers, fleece provides insulation without the bulk of heavier fabrics.
Look for a fleece that’s specifically meant for athletic wear or outdoor activities. These are designed to keep you at a comfortable temperature during physical activity. Basic or budget fleeces may be cheaper but won’t have the same performance features. Choose a lightweight or midweight fleece that’s breathable and wicks moisture away from your skin.
Moisture-wicking fleece pulls sweat and water vapor away from your body so you stay dry and avoid feeling chilled. As you walk on the ground, a good wicking fleece will keep you from overheating and getting cold as your sweat dries. Some performance fleeces also have anti-microbial properties to prevent odors from building up over the round.
Wind-resistant fleece provides extra protection from breezes without the bulk of a heavy jacket. For windy days, a wind-resistant fleece pullover is ideal for keeping your core warm while still allowing free movement in your arms. Look for a fleece with a densely woven outer surface or a water-repellent finish.
The best fabric for your golf shirt comes down to the level of comfort and performance you want. Fleece checks all the boxes for breathability, temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking, making it a top choice for casual rounds or more serious play. With lightweight, midweight, and wind-resistant options, there’s a fleece for any condition, so you can stay focused on your game.
Polyester
Polyester is a popular fabric choice for golf shirts. It’s durable, wrinkle-resistant, and affordable. Polyester is a synthetic fiber, meaning it’s man-made. The fibers are woven together to create the fabric.
Polyester golf shirt materials tend to hold their shape well after multiple washings. They are less prone to shrinking or pilling compared to natural fibers like cotton. Polyester is also quick-drying, so a polyester golf shirt will keep you feeling dry and comfortable if you work up a sweat on the course.
Breathability
While polyester is good at wicking away moisture, it may not be the most breathable option, especially in hot weather. Polyester fibers don’t absorb moisture as well as natural fibers, so they can feel sticky against your skin. Look for polyester blends, like poly-spandex or poly-cotton, which provide more breathability. Mesh panels or perforations in the fabric can also improve airflow.
Durability
Polyester is an extremely durable fabric. Golf shirts made of 100% polyester can last for several years with regular use and washing. The fibers are resistant to damage from chemicals, insects, and sunlight. However, lower-quality polyester may start to look worn over time. Higher-end polyester blends tend to retain their shape and vibrancy better.
Easy Care
Polyester golf shirts are virtually carefree. They can go right in the washer and dryer without worry of shrinkage or damage. Most polyester shirts can be washed on a normal cycle using a standard laundry detergent. Avoid fabric softener, which can coat the fibers and reduce wicking ability. Tumble dry on low or medium heat and your polyester golf shirt will come out looking freshly pressed with no ironing needed.
Overall, polyester provides an ideal blend of performance, durability, and easy care suited to the golf course’s demands. When choosing a polyester golf shirt, consider the quality of the fabric and any blended materials to get the right level of breathability and comfort for you. With the proper care, a good polyester golf shirt should serve you well for many rounds to come.
Spandex
Spandex (or elastane) is a popular fabric used in athletic apparel like golf shirts because it’s extremely flexible and form-fitting. Spandex is blended with natural fibers like cotton to provide stretch while still being breathable. A higher percentage of spandex, around 5–10%, will give a golf shirt more “give” and a tighter fit.
For maximum mobility on the golf course, look for a shirt with at least 10% spandex. This amount of stretching will allow you to swing freely without feeling restricted. However, be aware that higher-spandex blends tend to be less breathable, as spandex itself does not breathe well. A blend of around 5-8% spandex strikes a good balance of stretch and breathability for most golfers.
Spandex also helps golf shirts keep their shape over time and after repeated washes. Without any spandex, a 100% cotton shirt will gradually loosen and become misshapen. The spandex fibers help the shirt retain its tailored shape even after being stretched out. This is an especially useful property for fitted or contoured golf shirts.
One downside to spandex is that it can cause shirts to shrink slightly in the wash. To avoid shrinkage, wash any golf shirt on a cold or warm cycle and then air-dry or tumble-dry on low heat. The heat from the dryer, not the washer, is the main culprit for spandex shrinkage. Removing shirts from the dryer while they’re still slightly damp will also minimize shrinkage.
Spandex revolutionized athletic apparel by giving it an elastic quality that allows for complete freedom of movement. When blended judiciously with breathable materials like polyester or cotton, it creates the perfect, performance-ready fabric for golf shirts and activewear. Look for a spandex blend in a men’s golf shirt and you’ll gain maximum stretch and mobility to focus on your swing rather than your shirt.
Lambswool
It is analogous to comparing apples and oranges to lambswool and adult sheep’s wool. The reason behind this is that lambswool is inherently softer and warmer. This is because, while it hasn’t had a chance to grow coarse and tough, it must protect the lamb throughout the first few months of its existence. The inherent flexibility of lambswool prevents it from losing its shape or suffering damage.
Comfort
Lambswool is a very cozy and soft material. Because of this, wearing it at the clubhouse or on a golf course is a terrific option.
Warmth
Air trapped between the fibers of lambswool creates natural insulation for sweaters and vests. In colder weather, this is a wonderful option for keeping golfers warm.
Moisture-Wicking
The inherent sweat-wicking properties of lambswool will keep the wearer from becoming clammy while they’re out on the course.
Breathable
The breathable fabric can let extra heat escape in addition to removing perspiration from the body.
Odor Resistance
The inherent antibacterial qualities of lambswool inhibit the growth of microorganisms and lessen the possibility of odors arising.
Hypoallergenic
For those who suffer from allergies or asthma, lambswool is an excellent option due to its inherent hypoallergenic qualities.
UV defense
You are going to be exposed to UV radiation when spending hours upon hours on a golf course. When in touch with potentially dangerous rays, lambswool provides +40 UV protection.
Denim
Denim is a popular choice for men’s golf shirts because it’s comfortable, breathable, and has a casual look perfect for the course. The lightweight and loose-fitting material allows for maximum range of motion and ventilation.
Comfortable and flexible
The denim fabric has some stretch to it, allowing you to move freely as you swing and putt. It’s a breathable cotton fabric, keeping you cool even on the hottest days out on the links. The soft, broken-in feel of denim only gets more comfortable over time and with repeated washing and wearing. For the ultimate in flexibility and breathability, look for denim golf shirts made of 100% cotton. Polyester blends may restrict movement and airflow.
Stylish and versatile
Denim exudes a stylish casualness perfect for a laidback sport like golf. It looks just as good with khakis or shorts as it does with jeans. A denim golf shirt in a medium blue wash is a wardrobe staple that you’ll wear on and off the course. For extra style, look for details like contrast stitching, brushed cotton, or distressed details.
Durable and long-lasting
High-quality denim is extremely durable and long-lasting. Denim golf shirts can withstand repeated washings while still holding their shape well. They are less prone to snags, tears, and holes than other lightweight fabrics. With proper care, a denim golf shirt can become one of the most long-lasting pieces in your wardrobe.
Denim golf shirts provide the winning combination of comfort, style, and durability. For your next round of golf, consider a classic denim shirt. It will keep you feeling and looking your best from the first tee to the final putt.
Merino Wool
Merino sheep, which are mostly found in Australia and New Zealand, produce the wool known as Merino wool. Merino wool is an exquisite, high-end fabric that is similar to cashmere and is ideal for sweaters and golf shirts. Merino wool is a robust, long-lasting material that can handle the demands of golfing.
Merino wool is more sustainable since it is a natural product. It is a more environmentally friendly choice because it is also biodegradable.
Body Temperature
Excellent thermoregulatory qualities are found in Merino wool. When the weather gets warmer, they aid in keeping golfers cool.
Wicking Moisturize
Additionally, merino wool naturally wicks away perspiration. In hot weather, this keeps golfers dry and cool.
Odor Resistance
Merino wool’s moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties lessen the chance of odors. For people who enjoy playing golf in warm weather, this is ideal.
Comfort
Cashmere and Merino wool are similar in terms of comfort and softness. This high-end material blends functionality and comfort to make the ideal fabric for golf apparel.
UV Protection
Additionally, merino wool has remarkable +40 UV protection. In other words, only 1/40, or 2.5%, of the dangerous UV rays will be able to pass through it and reach the skin.
Bamboo Viscose
Bamboo viscose is a popular choice for men’s golf shirts. Bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial and breathable, wicking moisture away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable on the course.
Bamboo viscose is made from bamboo fibers that have been chemically treated and spun into yarn. The process is similar to how rayon is made from wood pulp. Bamboo plants grow very quickly and require few pesticides to thrive, so clothing made from bamboo viscose is an eco-friendly choice. Bamboo viscose dyes well and holds bright colors. It’s also very soft, so shirts made of bamboo viscose will feel smooth against your skin.
However, bamboo viscose isn’t as durable as other fabrics like cotton or polyester. It can pill more easily after repeated washing and wearing. Bamboo viscose also wrinkles more than other fabrics, although a quick touch-up with an iron or steamer can have your shirt looking freshly pressed again. Due to its breathability, bamboo viscose may not provide as much warmth or insulation as other fabrics. So for cooler weather, you may need an extra base layer.
Bamboo viscose blends well with spandex or polyester, which are often added to increase durability and shape retention. A blend of 95% bamboo viscose and 5% spandex or polyester is a popular choice for men’s golf shirts. The spandex or polyester helps the shirt keep its shape through multiple wears while still retaining most of the softness and breathability of bamboo viscose.
Bamboo viscose can be a great choice for men’s golf shirts, especially in hot and humid weather. It’s natural moisture-wicking and thermo-regulating properties will keep you feeling dry and comfortable on the links. With proper care and occasional touch-ups, bamboo viscose golf shirts can provide a soft, breathable option for many rounds of golf.
Performance Fabrics
When it comes to performance golf shirt fabrics, you have two excellent options: moisture-wicking polyester and stretch polyester. These advanced fabrics will keep you cool, dry, and comfortable out on the course.
Polyester is a synthetic fiber that excels at wicking away moisture from your skin. As you start to sweat, the fabric pulls the moisture to the outer layer, where it can evaporate. This keeps you feeling dry even as you perspire. Popular brands of moisture-wicking polyester include Dri-FIT, ClimaCool, and HydroShield.
Stretch polyester incorporates spandex or a similar fiber to provide flexibility and range of motion. This added stretch is ideal for an athletic shirt and won’t restrict your swing. Some stretch polyesters provide light to medium compression, which can improve muscle performance and reduce fatigue. Popular stretch polyester brands are Flex and Sport-Tek.
For the ultimate high-performance golf shirt, look for one made of a polyester blend that incorporates both moisture-wicking and stretch properties. This combination will keep you dry through 18 holes and allow full mobility for your drives and putts. Some recommended fabric blends include:
- 94% polyester/6% spandex: lightweight, breathable, and stretchy. Great for hot summer days.
- 90% polyester/10% spandex: medium weight, durable, and highly moisture-wicking with good stretch. excellent all-around choice.
- 86% polyester/14% spandex: a heavier, compression fabric that is very effective at wicking moisture and regulating body temperature. Provides the most stretch of these options.
The best fabric for your needs will depend on the climate you typically play in and your preferences for lightness, breathability, and range of motion. But with the high-performance options now available, you really can’t go wrong. Focus on fabrics with both moisture-wicking and stretch properties, and you’ll stay cool, dry, and fully flexible to the 19th hole.
How to Care For Different Golf Shirt Materials
The best fabric for your golf shirt depends a lot on how well you care for it. Different materials have different needs, so you’ll want to keep these pointers in mind based on what your shirt is made of.
Cotton
Cotton is a popular choice for golf shirts because it’s breathable and comfortable. However, cotton wrinkles easily, and stains persist. Wash cotton shirts separately the first time, then tumble-dry on low heat. Avoid fabric softener, which can damage the cotton fibers over time. Remove stains promptly before washing. For stubborn stains, pretreat the area or scrub with a paste of water and baking soda. Cotton shirts may shrink slightly, so buy one size larger.
Polyester
Polyester is another common golf shirt fabric. It’s wrinkle-resistant, durable, and moisture-wicking. Wash polyester shirts in warm or hot water using a normal cycle. They can go in the dryer on high heat, but avoid over-drying, which causes static cling. Polyester rarely stains or shrinks. For light stains, pretreat and launder as usual. For set-in stains, rub with a solvent like rubbing alcohol before washing.
Synthetic Blends
Many synthetic fabrics for golf wear combine natural and synthetic fibers, like cotton and polyester. Follow the care guidelines for the most delicate fiber in the blend. For example, a cotton-poly blend should be laundered like cotton using a normal, warm wash and low-heat drying. Check the shirt’s label to determine if any special instructions apply for that specific blend. In many cases, the blend will provide the benefits of multiple fibers, like the breathability of cotton combined with the durability of polyester.
Caring properly for your golf shirt is key to keeping it looking and performing at its best on the course. With the right wash and dry cycles and proper stain removal, your favorite shirt will stay in great shape for many rounds of golf to come. Pay attention to the fiber content and follow the recommendations to keep your shirts clean, minimize wrinkles, and prevent damage over time.
Is polyester or Cotton Better For Golf Shirts?
When it comes to finding a comfortable yet high-performance golf shirt, the debate often comes down to two materials: polyester or cotton. Each has its pros and cons, so let’s explore which is better for hitting the links.
Polyester is a synthetic fiber praised for its durability and moisture-wicking properties. Polyester golf shirts will keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your skin and letting it evaporate. They are also very durable, resistant to stains, and require little ironing. However, some golfers find polyester less breathable and irritating.
Cotton, on the other hand, is a natural fiber that is very soft, breathable, and comfortable against the skin. Cotton allows for maximum airflow and is non-irritating. The downside is that cotton absorbs moisture rather than wicking it away. Wet cotton shirts can feel heavy and clingy and won’t keep you as dry. Cotton also wrinkles more easily and stains are hard to remove.
For peak performance on the golf course, a blend of polyester and cotton, like 60/40 or 70/30, provides the best of both worlds. These blends offer moisture-wicking qualities along with softness and breathability. They are durable yet lightweight, and they resist wrinkles while maintaining shape.
What is the Best Material For Golf Shirts in Hot Weather?
Choose breathable, moisture-wicking, and lightweight golf shirt materials for golfing in hot and humid weather. The best options are:
Polyester is a popular choice for golf shirts in warm weather. It’s a synthetic fiber that is excellent at wicking away moisture from your skin to keep you dry. Polyester fabrics like polyester mesh, polyester interlock, and polyester pique are lightweight and airy and help prevent overheating. These poly-blend fabrics are also very durable and resistant to fading, so your golf shirt will last through many rounds on the course.
Performance fabrics like Dri-FIT, ClimaCool, and Coolmax are polyester fabrics specifically designed for athletic clothing and staying comfortable in hot weather. They rapidly transport moisture away from your body and have a loose knit that allows maximum airflow. Performance fabrics are a bit pricey but highly effective at temperature regulation.
Natural fibers like cotton can also work well in hot weather if they have a loose weave. Look for cotton mesh, slub cotton, or cotton gauze, which provide breathability. 100% cotton may not wick away moisture efficiently enough for strenuous activity in very hot weather, though. Cotton-polyester blends can give you the benefits of both fibers.
Any material that will keep you cool comes down to personal preference. But focusing on breathable, lightweight, and moisture-wicking fabrics will ensure you stay comfortable for 18 holes on even the hottest days. Keeping the sun off your skin with breathable fabric for golf shirts is also important for avoiding overheating, so be sure to choose a color that will reflect sunlight rather than absorb it. With the right material and color, you’ll be able to concentrate on your golf game and not on how sweltering you feel!
Conclusion
It doesn’t have to be difficult to find high-quality golf shirt fabrics. Discover the various styles and materials with which Tack Apparel, a golf clothing manufacturer, offers an assortment of premium golf polo material shirts, sweaters, outerwear, and pants.
Polyester blends are lightweight and moisture-wicking. Merino wool improves temperature regulation. And cotton brings that soft, breathable feel. Consider performance, durability, and your personal preference. Every one of the materials we have looked at today has advantages. Our performance line is made to keep you feeling and looking fantastic while giving you the competitive edge that comes with dressing well for the game of golf.
At last, the best golf shirt is the one you feel great wearing. Trust your instincts and choose the types of fabrics that work for your game.
