Dress codes are commonplace across golf clubs – some more strict than others – and their existence remains a topic of discussion as the game establishes its place in society now that we’re significantly into the 21st century.
Should these standards for attire be maintained, or does there need to be some further loosening of restrictions to suit a modern generation?
The reality is that – apart from the most traditional and elite venues – things have generally been relaxed, which is quite right, but there are inconsistencies that continue to baffle some of us.
Golfshake’s Derek Clements recently addressed the debate surrounding dress codes in 2025, and raised an intriguing point about the situation regarding jeans.
He wrote: “I strongly believe that jeans provide practical attire when it comes to playing on cold winter days. Am I wrong?
“I own several pairs of jeans, each of which cost me around £100. My golf trousers were bought from Sports Direct – two pairs cost £30. If I turned up at any golf club in Britain wearing my £100 jeans I would be shown the door. But I can wear trousers with holes in the knees and nobody will bat an eyelid.”
Denim is generally prohibited at golf courses in the UK – and the question is, why?
Why Can’t I Play Golf in Jeans?
(Playing Golf in Dark Jeans)
Jeans – even the more expensive kind that Derek clearly enjoys – are not viewed as conforming with the classic dress code at golf clubs, being more casual than a pair of smart trousers.
But that perspective doesn’t stand up to much scrutiny when you see what is permitted. We’ve all spotted some truly outlandish garments on the course, both in terms of style and colour, that are accepted. Think of John Daly and what he wears.
There isn’t a sensible reality where a decent pair of jeans stand out more than loudmouth trousers.
Now, you could argue that denim isn’t ideal for playing golf anyway. It can be a more restrictive material that could limit your flexibility, certainly when compared to fabric trousers that have been specifically designed for performance, but surely that should be up to the golfer themselves to judge?
I have worn black jeans when playing golf in St Andrews, including on the Old Course, but once you’ve overcome the shock of beholding such sacrilegious behaviour, what’s ultimately the problem? Why should we care about how someone dresses, what difference does it make to what truly matters?
Respecting the game itself and beholding the traditions of things should be about the manner in which you conduct yourself when playing, not how you dress. You could be wearing the most immaculate of golfing apparel but commit all manner of other offences on the course when it comes to etiquette. I know who I would find more offensive to play with. Give me the golfer in jeans who is impeccable company any day of the week.
Dress codes are human inventions added onto the game that feel inherently snobbish at heart. You must dress a certain way to participate – that doesn’t sound particularly inclusive.
Who Cares How People Dress on The Golf Course?
Generations ago, people and golfers naturally dressed rather differently. Some players today relish that nostalgia and wear the classic tweed or jackets that you may have seen Harry Vardon sport back in the day. That won’t be for everyone, but there is a place for it.
Likewise, fashion has changed since the 1970s and you may roll your eyes at seeing some of those colour combinations returning today. But why not if someone fancies it? The same can be said for John Daly-esque loudmouth trousers. It’s certainly not for me, but having a liberal mind when it comes to choice and what other people decide for themselves, I support someone’s decision to wear that gear.
You may argue that jeans are not suitable for golf in terms of performance – which is an understandable perspective – but why shouldn’t someone be allowed to wear denim on the course if that’s what they want to do?
How someone behaves is what matters. The way they dress shouldn’t be the concern of anyone else. Judge fellow golfers – and people – for who they are, not how they look.
That said, ideally, a pair of chinos or golfing trousers will work for me.
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