Fall Golf Wardrobe: What to Wear When the Weather Gets Cozy
Okay, let's talk about fall golf fashion – and by fashion, I mean functional pieces that actually let you swing a golf club without feeling like you're wrapped in a burrito.
I see so many women show up to the course in the cutest fall outfits that are completely wrong for golf. Like, they look adorable, but they can't make a backswing without their sweater riding up or their sleeves restricting their movement. We can do better than this, ladies!
Here's my philosophy: layers that don't restrict your swing and fabrics that move with you. Because what's the point of looking cute if you can't play your best golf?
The Fall Golf Wardrobe Strategy
Rule #1: If You Can't Swing in It, Don't Wear It I learned this the hard way by wearing a sweater that looked so fall-golf-chic in my mirror at home. By the 3rd hole, I felt like I was in a straitjacket. Now I do practice swings in the pro shop mirror before I buy anything. If I can't get a full shoulder turn, it's not coming home with me.
Rule #2: Think Layers, Not Bulk The temperature can swing 20+ degrees during a round, especially those gorgeous fall morning tee times that start chilly and warm up beautifully. You want pieces you can add or remove without having to completely change your outfit.
Rule #3: Save the Cozy for After That chunky sweater? Save it for the 19th hole. During the round, we're prioritizing movement and comfort.
My Fall Golf Must-Haves
Quarter-Zips: Your New Best Friend I am completely obsessed with quarter-zips in stretchy athletic material. They're warm enough for those crisp morning tee times but breathable enough that you won't overheat by the back nine. The key is finding ones with a little stretch – nothing ruins a good round like feeling restricted in your swing.
Look for:
Athletic material with stretch
Not too tight through the shoulders
A length that won't ride up when you swing
Colors that hide inevitable dirt & grass stains (learned this one the hard way)
Thick Material Joggers = Game Changer Can we please normalize wearing joggers on the golf course? I'm talking about the nice ones – thick material that looks put-together but feels like pajamas. They're perfect for those days when it's a little too cool for shorts but you still want to be comfortable walking 18 holes.
What to look for:
Thick enough material to look intentional (not like you rolled out of bed)
Tapered leg that won't get caught in your swing
Pockets deep enough for tees and a ball marker
A waistband that stays put when you bend over to tee up
The Cozy Pullover Strategy If you're going to wear a pullover (and you absolutely should when it gets chilly), make sure it's roomy enough to allow for your full swing. I actually size up in pullovers specifically for golf – I'd rather it be a little loose than restrict my movement.
Pro tip: Look for pullovers with side seams or panels – they tend to move better than ones that are just straight tubes of fabric.
Smart Layering for Temperature Swings Here's my go-to formula for those tricky fall days:
Base layer: Moisture-wicking short or long-sleeve top
Middle layer: Quarter-zip or light pullover
Outer layer: Thin vest or windbreaker (if needed)
The vest is key – it keeps your core warm without adding bulk to your arms. Your swing will thank you.
What NOT to Wear (Lessons Learned the Hard Way)
Sweatshirts During the Round I know, I know – they look so cute and cozy. But I just don't love the bulk of sweatshirts while playing golf. They restrict motion too much, in my opinion. Instead, I layer thinner pieces that I can adjust as needed.
BUT here's my secret: I always pack a sweatshirt in my golf bag for AFTER the round. The minute you stop moving, you're going to get cold fast, whether you're hanging out on the patio or going into the clubhouse for food.
Jeans (Just Don't) I see this more than I'd like to admit. Jeans might be your go-to fall outfit, but they're terrible for golf. No stretch, no breathability, and they get heavy if it's dewy in the morning.
Anything Dry Clean Only Golf is messy. Grass stains happen. Mud happens. If you can't throw it in the washing machine, don't wear it to the golf course.
My Current Favorites
Quarter-Zips I'm Loving:
Adidas quarter zip pullover with pockets
Look for brands that specialize in athletic wear
Moisture-wicking fabric is key
I personally love ones with thumbholes for extra warmth
Joggers That Actually Work for Golf:
Thick enough to look intentional
Stretchy enough for a full range of motion
Pockets that actually hold things
Accessories That Make a Difference:
The Post-Round Strategy
Once you're done playing, that's when you can break out the cozy pieces! I always have a backup plan in my golf bag:
A comfy sweatshirt for the clubhouse
A scarf if it's really chilly
Different shoes if I want to change out of my golf shoes
Because let's be honest – half the fun of fall golf is hanging out afterward with a warm drink and celebrating the round (whether it was good or... educational).
Let's Talk Real Talk
What are your biggest challenges with fall golf outfits? Are you team quarter-zip or team pullover? Have you found joggers that you actually love playing in?
Drop a comment below or send me a DM – I'm always looking for new brands and pieces to try. And if you have a fall golf outfit disaster story, please share it because we've all been there!
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