Best Golf Shorts 2026: Cool, Comfortable and Course-Ready

Best Golf Shorts: The Short Answer

The best golf shorts pair stretch performance fabric with a smart, tailored cut that clears club dress codes and a length that sits just above the knee. Choose breathable, quick-drying fabric to stay cool and comfortable on warm British rounds, and a fit that moves with your swing. Get those right and shorts become the easiest way to enjoy summer golf without overheating.

Below we explain what to look for in golf shorts and how to choose. Browse our full range of golf shorts and trousers, chosen by pros for real conditions.

Why Does Stretch Matter in Shorts?

Just as with trousers, golf is a rotational movement, and stiff shorts fight your swing and dig in when you sit or bend. Four-way stretch fabric moves with you, so you can turn fully, crouch to read a putt, and walk 18 holes in comfort. Stretch also improves the fit around the waist and thigh, where rigid fabric pinches. If you take one feature seriously, make it stretch. For the trouser side of the same range, see our guide to the best golf trousers.

What Fabric Should Summer Shorts Be?

Summer golf is about staying cool and dry, so fabric does a lot of the work. Look for lightweight, breathable performance fabric that wicks sweat and dries quickly, so a warm round or a sudden shower does not leave you damp for the back nine.

• Moisture-wicking: pulls sweat away so you stay dry and comfortable in the heat.
• Quick-drying: shrugs off light rain and morning dew, useful in changeable British weather.
• A UPF rating: sun protection for your legs across a long, bright round.

How Long Should Golf Shorts Be?

Length matters for both looks and dress codes. The safe, smart length for golf shorts sits just above the knee, which looks tailored and is accepted almost everywhere. Too short can breach club rules and looks out of place, while too long restricts movement and looks baggy. A cut that ends an inch or two above the knee is the classic golf length that works on any course.

What Do Club Dress Codes Say About Shorts?

Most UK clubs allow tailored golf shorts in summer, but the rules vary, and some have specifics worth checking. A few traditional clubs still require trousers, and many that allow shorts have a rule about socks, often that they must be worn ankle-length or, at some clubs, a longer style. Stick to smart, plain-coloured tailored shorts, avoid cargo and casual styles, and check the club website before you travel. Our guide on golf dress codes covers the wider picture.

What Fit Should You Choose?

As with trousers, fit is personal, but comfort and movement come first. The shorts should sit securely at the waist, offer room through the thigh and seat to move and sit, and taper cleanly without being tight. Many ranges offer regular and slim fits, so choose the cut that suits your build. A slightly elasticated or adjustable waistband adds comfort across a warm round when you are moving a lot.

Which Details Are Worth Having?

A few practical details make shorts more useful over a round:

• Deep, secure pockets: that hold a scorecard, tees, and a phone without bulging or dropping anything as you walk.
• A stain-resistant finish: that shrugs off grass and mud from the rough.
• Belt loops: for a smart finish and to keep the fit secure through the swing.
• A gusseted or articulated cut: for extra freedom of movement.

How Many Pairs Do You Need?

Two or three pairs of good stretch shorts in smart, plain colours cover a British summer easily. Navy, stone, grey, and black go with any polo and clear any dress code. Buy quality over quantity: a few well-made pairs that wick, stretch, and hold their shape outlast a drawer full of cheap ones and keep you looking right on any course.

The Fayrway Take

Golf shorts are simple to get right: four-way stretch, breathable quick-dry fabric, a tailored cut just above the knee, and smart plain colours that clear dress codes. Own two or three good pairs and warm-weather golf becomes a pleasure rather than a sweaty slog. Just remember to check your club's rules on shorts and socks first. Browse our shorts and trousers range, picked by pros who play through the summer.