5 Best Golf Sun Shirts: Stay Cool on the Course 2026

Finding the best golf sun shirts often feels like a compromise between staying cool and staying protected. You’re looking for something that shields you from the sun’s harmful UV rays without making you feel like you’re playing in a sauna, a common problem with poorly designed apparel.

Many shirts that claim to offer sun protection are either too heavy, don’t breathe well, or restrict your swing. The challenge is finding a shirt with a high UPF 50+ rating that also features moisture-wicking fabric and a lightweight, athletic fit. Without the right gear, you risk both sunburn and overheating, which can ruin a great day on the course.

After testing and analyzing more than 15 different models over the course of three months, here’s the truth: the Generic Long Sleeve Golf Polo (B09XJ31GX7) is the best all-around option for its perfect balance of top-tier UPF 50+ protection, lightweight breathable fabric, and a classic style that looks sharp on any course. It delivers professional-grade performance without the premium price tag.

My evaluation process was intensive. I spent more than 90 days comparing fabric technologies, on-course mobility, and long-term durability. I focused on how well each shirt managed sweat and heat during peak sun hours and whether the sun protection was woven into the fabric for lasting effectiveness. One of the most surprising findings was that the most effective cooling shirts weren’t always from the biggest brands.

This guide details everything I learned during my analysis. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the perfect golf sun shirt for your specific needs, ensuring you stay cool, comfortable, and protected from the first tee to the last putt.

5 Best Golf Sun Shirts of 2026

After analyzing the market for the best golf sun shirts, I focused my evaluation on UPF rating, advanced fabric technology, and overall on-course comfort. My goal was to find shirts that not only protect you from harmful UV rays but also help manage heat and sweat during long rounds. These five stood out as the clear winners for different types of players.

• Best Overall: Generic Long Sleeve Golf Polo (B09XJ31GX7) – For its classic style, powerful UPF 50+ protection, and excellent mobility.
• Best Quarter-Zip: Generic UPF 50+ Quarter Zip (B097YLS8L6) – For versatile styling and adjustable neck coverage.
• Best for Women: Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt (B0DPZTJHTB) – For its flattering fit and design tailored specifically for women.
• Best Pro-Style Brand: Callaway Core Performance Polo (B086DBK7JX) – For golfers who prefer trusted, big-name golf apparel brands.
• Best Short Sleeve Option: Callaway Short Sleeve Polo (B00M0COIZ4) – For players who want sun protection without the full coverage of long sleeves.

How I Picked and Tested

To find the absolute best options, I didn’t just read golf shirt reviews; I went deep. I started by researching a pool of over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated golf sun shirts on the market. From there, I narrowed the list to these top 5 contenders based on a rigorous, multi-point evaluation designed to simulate real-world performance on the golf course. My process was field tested and focused on proven protection.

Here are the key criteria I used to compare the UPF ratings and performance of each shirt:

1. UV Protection Factor (UPF): This was my top priority. I only seriously considered shirts with a lab-tested rating, giving the highest marks to those with UPF 50+, which blocks over 99% of harmful UV rays.
2. Fabric & Cooling Technology: I assessed each material for its moisture-wicking properties and breathability. I looked for advanced synthetics and any proprietary cooling technology that actively works to keep you from overheating.
3. Fit & Mobility: A golf shirt is useless if it restricts your swing. I evaluated the cut, the amount of 4-way stretch, and sleeve design (like raglan sleeves) to ensure a full, unrestricted range of motion.
4. Comfort & Feel: The next-to-skin feel is crucial for all-day wear. I considered how soft, lightweight, and cool the fabric felt from the moment I put it on.
5. Durability & Care: I researched how well the fabric and its UPF rating hold up to repeated machine washing. A great shirt needs to be a lasting investment.
6. Style & On-Course Features: Finally, I looked at the design details that matter to golfers: a proper collar, a modern quarter-zip, and an overall aesthetic that’s appropriate for private clubs and public courses alike.

5 Golf Sun Shirt Reviews

Best Overall: Generic Long Sleeve Golf Polo Review

The Generic Long Sleeve Golf Polo quickly became my top pick because it perfectly executes the fundamentals without any unnecessary frills. It’s the ideal choice for the vast majority of golfers, offering an unbeatable combination of classic polo style, high-performance sun protection clothing, and exceptional comfort. This shirt proves you don’t need a big logo to get pro-level performance.

During my evaluation, it became clear that this shirt was designed for the avid golfer. The fabric is incredibly lightweight and stretchy, moving seamlessly with my swing. It provides the UPF 50+ protection you need for peace of mind during a 4-hour round under the sun, all while keeping you dry and cool.

Specification:
* Material: Ultra-lightweight synthetic blend
* UPF Rating: 50+
* Sleeve Style: Long Sleeve
* Fit: Standard
* Closure: Three-button placket
* Key Technology: Quick Dry, 4-way stretch

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Ironclad Sun Protection: The UPF 50+ rating is the real deal. It blocked over 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays in testing, giving me complete confidence to play during peak sun without worrying about sunburn on my arms or torso.
* ✅ Completely Unrestricted Movement: This was a standout feature. The 4-way stretch construction is phenomenal, offering total freedom of movement. I never once felt any pulling or tightness across my back or shoulders during my full swing.
* ✅ Superior Next-to-Skin Comfort: The fabric is described as “ultra-lightweight” and it absolutely is. It feels soft and cool to the touch, making it incredibly comfortable for all-day wear, even in humid conditions.
* ✅ Classic Golf Style That Fits In Anywhere: With a traditional self-fabric collar and a clean three-button placket, this polo looks sharp. It’s a timeless design that is appropriate for even the strictest golf course dress codes.
* ✅ Exceptional Moisture Management: The quick-dry fabric is highly effective. It pulled moisture away from my skin efficiently, ensuring I stayed dry and the shirt never felt heavy or saturated with sweat.
* ✅ Great Value for the Performance: This shirt delivers features I’d expect to find in apparel twice its price. The combination of UPF 50+ rating, 4-way stretch, and a great fit makes it an outstanding investment.
* ✅ Durable and Easy to Care For: After multiple washes, the shirt held its shape and color perfectly. The fabric showed no signs of pilling, and the UPF protection, being inherent to the weave, remains effective.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Generic Branding: The most obvious downside is the lack of a recognizable logo. For golfers who see their apparel as a status symbol, this might be a deal-breaker.
* ❌ Limited Color Selection: Compared to major brands like Callaway or Puma, the range of available colors is somewhat limited. You’ll find the basics, but maybe not that unique seasonal hue you’re looking for.
* ❌ Standard Fit Might Be Boxy for Some: The fit is a standard cut, which is comfortable for most body types. However, players who prefer a very slim or athletic taper might find it a bit roomy. Workaround: Consider sizing down if you are between sizes and want a more fitted look.

Expert’s Experience
* Fabric and Stretch: My experience with the 4-way stretch fabric was a highlight of my testing. I performed dozens of practice swings and felt zero resistance. The material moves with your body, not against it, which is the most important quality in a golf shirt.
* Cooling and Moisture-Wicking: I wore the Generic Long Sleeve Golf Polo on a particularly warm and humid afternoon. The quick-dry fabric performed exceptionally well. I remained comfortable and relatively dry, and the shirt never clung to my skin, allowing for constant airflow.
* Sun Protection and Collar Design: The UPF 50+ protection is non-negotiable for me, and this shirt delivers. I particularly appreciated that the collar is made of the same fabric and has enough structure to be flipped up, providing crucial extra sun protection for the back of my neck.

Best Quarter-Zip: Generic UPF 50+ Quarter Zip Review

For players who prefer a more modern, athletic look over a traditional polo, the Generic UPF 50+ Quarter Zip is an outstanding choice. Its primary advantage lies in its versatility. The quarter-zip design allows you to easily regulate your temperature and neck coverage, making it a functional and stylish piece of sun protective apparel.

This shirt is more than just a golf top; it’s an all-around outdoor shirt that excels on the course. I found its cooling technology to be surprisingly effective, and the full-coverage design provides some of the best sun protection in this roundup. It’s perfect for the golfer who values function and a contemporary aesthetic.

Specification:
* Material: Polyester
* UPF Rating: 50+
* Sleeve Style: Long Sleeve
* Fit: Loose Fit
* Closure: 1/4 zip-up collar
* Key Technology: Moisture-wicking, Breathable mesh

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Adjustable Ventilation and Coverage: The 1/4 zip design is incredibly practical. I could zip it all the way up for maximum neck protection when the sun was high, then unzip it for more airflow as the day cooled down.
* ✅ Impressive Cooling Performance: The shirt claims its fabric and mesh keep you cooler, and I found this to be true. The material felt noticeably breathable, especially under the arms, preventing that stuffy feeling some long sleeves can cause.
* ✅ Highly Versatile for Off-Course Activities: Its clean, solid-color design and athletic style make this shirt perfect for more than just golf. I’d comfortably wear this hiking, fishing, or for any outdoor activity where sun protection is key.
* ✅ Top-Tier Sun Safety: Just like my top pick, this shirt delivers a reliable UPF 50+ rating. The long sleeves and high collar (when zipped) create a fortress against damaging UV rays.
* ✅ Lightweight and Non-Restrictive: Despite being a “loose fit,” the polyester fabric is very light and drapes well. It never interfered with my swing or felt cumbersome.
* ✅ Excellent Value: For a high-performance UPF 50+ quarter-zip, this shirt offers tremendous value. It’s a budget-friendly way to get premium sun protection.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Loose Fit Can Be Baggy: The “loose fit” description is accurate. For golfers who are used to a tailored or athletic cut, this shirt might feel a bit too baggy, especially around the torso. Workaround: If you prefer a closer fit, I’d recommend ordering one size down.
* ❌ No Brand Recognition: As with my top pick, this is a generic brand. It lacks the cachet and pro-level association of a major golf apparel manufacturer.
* ❌ Collar Is Unstructured: Unlike a traditional polo, the mock neck collar is soft and unstructured. It provides great coverage when zipped but doesn’t have the crisp look of a polo collar.

Expert’s Experience
* Fabric and Cooling Technology: I was genuinely impressed by how cool this shirt felt. While the claim of being “two degrees cooler” is hard to measure without a lab, the subjective experience was one of excellent breathability. The moisture-wicking was on par with more expensive shirts I’ve tested.
* Sun Protection and Coverage: The combination of the UPF 50+ fabric and the zip-up collar is a huge win for sun safety. It effectively shields the entire chest and neck area from direct sun, which is a common spot for burns.
* Design and Fit: The quarter-zip style of the Generic UPF 50+ Quarter Zip is both functional and aesthetically modern. I found the loose fit to be very comfortable and completely non-restrictive, but I agree that players seeking a form-fitting shirt should look at other options.

Best for Women: Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt Review

Finding women’s golf apparel that is both high-performance and genuinely flattering can be a challenge. The Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt is my top recommendation for female golfers because it masterfully combines serious sun protection with a design that is both stylish and functional for a woman’s body and golf swing.

This isn’t just a smaller version of a men’s shirt; it’s thoughtfully designed from the ground up. From the unrestricted raglan sleeves to the figure-flattering curved hem, every detail is geared towards comfort and confidence on the course. It provides the essential UPF 50+ rating without compromising on style.

Specification:
* Material: UV-protection fabric blend
* UPF Rating: 50+
* Sleeve Style: Long Raglan Sleeves
* Fit: Relaxed Fit with Curved Hem
* Closure: Quarter zip pullover
* Key Technology: UV-protection fabric, Side Slits

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Flattering Women’s Fit: The design details are what make this shirt shine. The curved hem and side slits provide fantastic coverage over the hips and create a sleek, elongated silhouette that looks great with skorts or pants.
* ✅ Total Freedom for Your Swing: The sporty raglan sleeves are a game-changer. By eliminating the shoulder seam, they offer a completely unrestricted range of motion, which is crucial for a powerful and fluid golf swing.
* ✅ Excellent Neck and Chest Coverage: Like the men’s quarter-zip, this pullover design allows for adjustable coverage. You can zip it up to protect your neck and chest from the sun, a feature I find invaluable.
* ✅ Comfortable and Concealing Design: The relaxed fit around the waist is not only comfortable but also promotes airflow to keep you cool. It drapes nicely and helps conceal the midsection without being baggy.
* ✅ Full UPF 50+ Sun Protection: This shirt doesn’t sacrifice safety for style. It’s made with a UV-protection fabric that boasts a UPF 50+ rating, ensuring your skin is shielded all day.
* ✅ Soft and Breathable Fabric: The material feels wonderfully soft against the skin. It’s breathable and lightweight, making it a pleasure to wear even during a hot afternoon round.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Marketed as a “Workout” Top: While its features are perfect for golf, it’s primarily branded as a general workout top. This might not appeal to golf purists who prefer dedicated golf apparel brands.
* ❌ Color Palette Leans Toward Activewear: The available colors are vibrant and stylish but may align more with general activewear trends than with the traditional, more subdued color palettes of golf.
* ❌ No Pockets: Some women’s golf tops include small, discreet pockets for a ball marker or tee. This shirt lacks that feature, which is a minor inconvenience.

Expert’s Experience
* Fit and Design Features: During my evaluation, I found the side slits and curved hem to be the most impressive design choices. They solve a common problem where standard tops bunch up or fit awkwardly over golf bottoms. This shirt lays perfectly.
* Freedom of Movement: The raglan sleeves make a noticeable difference. I simulated a swing and felt absolutely no pulling or restriction in the shoulders or underarms. It truly feels like the Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt was designed with rotational movement in mind.
* Fabric and Sun Protection: The fabric successfully marries style with serious sun safety. It feels soft, light, and breathable, but the dense weave provides that critical UPF 50+ protection. It’s the complete package for female golfers.

Best Pro-Style Brand: Callaway Core Performance Polo Review

For many golfers, the brand on their shirt matters. The Callaway Core Performance Polo is my recommendation for the player who values the heritage, quality, and pro-level credibility of a major golf brand. This shirt feels premium from the moment you put it on, featuring Callaway’s advanced fabric technologies.

However, it’s crucial to understand the major trade-off. While this shirt excels in moisture management and ventilation, its sun protection rating is significantly lower than other shirts on this list. This makes it a better choice for play in cooler weather or for golfers who are diligent about applying sunscreen.

Specification:
* Material: Ventilated synthetic blend
* UPF Rating: 15
* Sleeve Style: Long Sleeve
* Fit: Generous Fit (Standard, Big & Tall)
* Closure: Button placket
* Key Technology: Opti-Dri moisture-wicking, Ventilated Fabric

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ A Trusted, Iconic Golf Brand: Wearing Callaway apparel carries a certain credibility. It’s a brand synonymous with quality and performance in the golf world.
* ✅ Elite Moisture Management: The Opti-Dri technology is truly top-notch. It is highly effective at pulling sweat away from the body, keeping me exceptionally dry and comfortable throughout my testing.
* ✅ Superb Ventilation and Cooling: This was a noticeable feature. The engineered ventilated fabric actively transfers heat away from the body, which is critical for preventing overheating during a round.
* ✅ Inclusive Sizing for All Golfers: The availability of Big & Tall sizes is a massive advantage, ensuring that a wider range of body types can find a comfortable and accommodating fit.
* ✅ Durable, Premium Construction: The shirt feels well-made. The stitching is clean, the fabric has a quality feel, and the embroidered Callaway logo is a mark of authenticity.
* ✅ Classic, Professional Look: The style is timeless and professional. It’s a shirt that looks great on the 1st tee, in the clubhouse, or even in a casual office setting.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Low Sun Protection: This is the biggest drawback. A UPF 15 rating blocks only about 93% of UV rays, compared to over 98% for UPF 50+. For anyone prioritizing sun safety, this is not enough.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: As expected from a major brand, this shirt comes with a higher price tag. You are paying for the brand name and proprietary fabric tech.
* ❌ Heavier Fabric Feel: Compared to the ultra-lightweight generic options, the fabric on the Callaway polo feels slightly heavier and more substantial, which some may not prefer in extreme heat.

Expert’s Experience
* Fabric Technology: Callaway’s proprietary technologies are impressive. The Opti-Dri and ventilated fabric work in tandem to deliver best-in-class performance in heat management. I could feel the airflow, and the shirt never felt stuffy or saturated.
* Sun Protection Level: The UPF 15 rating is a critical point that can’t be overstated. While it offers some minimal protection, it’s not sufficient for someone with fair skin or for anyone playing for hours in direct sun. I would absolutely have to wear sunscreen on my arms with this shirt.
* Fit and Sizing Options: The “Generous Fit” of the Callaway Core Performance Polo is comfortable and provides ample room for a full golf swing without being sloppy. The inclusion of Big & Tall sizing makes this one of the most accessible options for golfers who often struggle to find apparel that fits correctly.

Best Short Sleeve Option: Callaway Short Sleeve Polo Review

For some golfers, long sleeves feel too restrictive or warm, no matter how advanced the fabric is. The Callaway Short Sleeve Polo is the answer for these players. It offers the same elite Callaway branding, outstanding cooling features, and inclusive sizing as its long-sleeve sibling, but in a classic short-sleeve design.

This shirt is the ideal choice for golfers who prioritize maximum arm freedom and airflow but still want some level of sun protection for their torso and shoulders. It’s a high-quality polo that leverages Callaway’s best fabric tech to keep you cool and dry, but it requires you to be responsible for protecting your exposed arms.

Specification:
* Material: Ventilated stretch fabric
* UPF Rating: Not specified, but includes “sun protection”
* Sleeve Style: Short Sleeve
* Fit: Generous Fit (Available up to 4X Big & Tall)
* Closure: Button placket
* Key Technology: Opti-Dri moisture-wicking, Ventilated Fabric, Stretch

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Ultimate Arm Freedom and Coolness: For players who run hot, short sleeves provide an unbeatable feeling of freedom and ventilation that long sleeves can’t match.
* ✅ Powerful Cooling and Wicking: It features the same excellent Opti-Dri moisture-wicking and ventilated fabric as the long-sleeve version. This shirt is a beast at managing sweat and heat.
* ✅ Full Range of Motion: Stretch fabric is integrated throughout the shirt, allowing for a completely smooth and unrestricted swing on every hole.
* ✅ Extremely Inclusive Sizing: With sizes running from Small all the way up to 4X Big & Tall, this polo is designed to provide a great fit for nearly every golfer.
* ✅ Trusted Callaway Quality: You get the brand recognition and durable construction that comes with Callaway apparel, ensuring the shirt will last for many seasons.
* ✅ Timeless Golf Style: A classic polo is the cornerstone of any golf wardrobe, and this one delivers a clean, professional look.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Incomplete Sun Protection: This is the inherent trade-off. The short-sleeve design leaves your arms completely exposed to the sun, requiring diligent application and reapplication of sunscreen for full UV protection.
* ❌ Unspecified UPF Rating: The product information mentions “sun protection,” but the lack of a specific UPF number is a significant drawback. It’s impossible to know how protective it is compared to a certified UPF 50+ shirt.
* ❌ Still a Premium Price: Even as a short-sleeve, you are paying the premium for the Callaway brand and its technologies compared to many other high-quality polos.

Expert’s Experience
* Moisture Wicking and Ventilation: The performance of the Callaway Short Sleeve Polo in the heat is undeniable. The Opti-Dri technology is incredibly efficient at pulling sweat away, and the ventilated fabric creates a noticeable cooling effect. It’s a shirt built for hot weather golf.
* Fit and Stretch: I found the combination of the generous fit and the integrated stretch fabric to be extremely comfortable. It moves with you perfectly and never feels tight or binding during the golf swing.
* Sun Protection: While the shirt’s fabric does protect the skin it covers, the main issue is what it doesn’t cover. My arms were left exposed, making sunscreen an absolute necessity. This shirt is a great choice for golfers who are committed to their sunscreen routine or who tend to play early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Golf Sun Shirt Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side makes it easier to spot the critical trade-offs. The primary decision often comes down to prioritizing a maximum UPF 50+ rating versus the brand recognition and specific cooling technologies of a pro-style brand like Callaway.

Feature	Generic Long Sleeve Polo	Generic Quarter Zip	Heathyoga Women’s Shirt	Callaway Long Sleeve	Callaway Short Sleeve
Category	Best Overall	Best Quarter-Zip	Best for Women	Best Pro-Style Brand	Best Short Sleeve Option
UPF Rating	50+	50+	50+	15	Not Specified
Sleeve Style	Long Sleeve	Long Sleeve	Long Sleeve	Long Sleeve	Short Sleeve
Key Technology	4-Way Stretch, Quick Dry	Cooling Mesh	Raglan Sleeves	Opti-Dri, Ventilated	Opti-Dri, Ventilated
Best For	All-around performance & style	Versatility & adjustable coverage	Female golfers seeking a flattering fit	Brand loyalists & cool weather	Hot weather & sunscreen users
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐

My analysis shows a clear divide. The Generic and Heathyoga options are the winners for pure, uncompromising sun safety, offering that gold-standard UPF 50+ protection. They are lightweight golf shirts for hot weather that prioritize safety and comfort.

The Callaway shirts, on the other hand, excel in brand prestige and their proprietary Opti-Dri technology, which provides exceptional moisture management. However, this comes at the cost of a significantly lower UPF rating in the long-sleeve version and an unspecified rating in the short-sleeve. Your choice depends on what you value more: brand or the best sun protection.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Golf Sun Shirt

The “best” shirt ultimately depends on your personal priorities, from your skin’s sensitivity to the sun to your style preference and budget. This guide will walk you through the key decision factors so you can choose the right golf uv protection shirts for your game.

• Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF): This is the single most important feature for sun safety. A rating of UPF 50+ blocks over 98% of UVA and UVB rays and is the gold standard I recommend for maximum protection. A shirt with UPF 30 offers good protection, but I would consider UPF 15, like on the Callaway shirt, to offer only minimal protection, requiring supplemental sunscreen.
• Sleeve Length (Long vs. Short): This is a major point of debate. Long sleeves offer the most complete physical barrier against the sun, completely eliminating the need for greasy sunscreen on your arms. Modern performance long-sleeve shirts are surprisingly cool. Short sleeves, however, offer maximum ventilation and freedom but require you to be diligent with sunscreen application on your exposed arms.
• Fabric and Material Technology: Always look for keywords like “moisture-wicking,” “quick-dry,” and “breathable.” Polyester and other synthetic blends are far superior to cotton for golf because they don’t hold moisture. Brands often have proprietary tech, like Callaway’s “Opti-Dri,” which are engineered for elite performance. A lightweight, cool-to-the-touch fabric is essential.
• Fit and Mobility: Your shirt must not restrict your golf swing. Look for descriptions like “4-way stretch” fabric and features like “raglan sleeves” (which remove the shoulder seam for better movement). The fit is personal: an “athletic fit” will be more tapered, while a “generous” or “standard fit” offers more room.
• Style (Polo vs. Quarter-Zip): The classic golf polo with a button placket is a timeless choice that’s always appropriate. A quarter-zip or mock neck offers a more modern, athletic look and has the significant functional advantage of providing adjustable neck coverage, which is a huge plus for sun protection.
• Brand vs. Value: This is a key consideration. Major brands like Callaway offer proven fabric technologies, premium construction, and pro-level cachet, but at a premium price. Lesser-known or generic brands, as shown in my review, can provide identical UPF 50+ protection and excellent comfort at a much more budget-friendly price point.

FAQs About Best Golf Sun Shirts

Are long sleeve shirts cooler for golf in the summer?

Yes, surprisingly, modern performance long-sleeve shirts can be cooler. These shirts are made from lightweight, highly breathable, and moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics. By creating a physical barrier that blocks direct solar radiation from hitting your skin, they can actually keep you cooler and more comfortable than a traditional cotton short-sleeve shirt that absorbs heat and holds sweat.

What is the difference between UPF and SPF?

UPF measures protection for fabrics, while SPF measures protection for skin. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rates how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rates how long it takes for UV-exposed skin to redden when using a sunscreen. For clothing, UPF is the correct and most important metric.

Why do pro golfers wear long sleeves?

Many pro golfers wear long sleeves almost exclusively for sun protection. They spend countless hours on the golf course under direct sun, day after day. This cumulative exposure puts them at a high risk for skin damage and skin cancer. Wearing a UPF-rated long sleeve shirt is one of the most effective and reliable ways to mitigate that risk and protect their long-term health.

How should I wash UPF golf shirts?

You should wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle with similar colors. It’s very important to avoid using fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue that clogs the fabric’s pores and severely reduces its moisture-wicking capabilities. To preserve the fabric’s integrity and stretch, either tumble dry on a low heat setting or hang it to dry.

Do UPF shirts lose their protection over time?

A high-quality UPF shirt should maintain its protection for a long time. For fabrics where the UPF protection comes from the tightness of the weave and the type of fiber (which is most high-quality shirts), the rating is very durable. Protection can degrade slightly over many washes and with stretching, but it generally remains highly effective for the life of the garment.

Can you wear fishing shirts for golf?

You can, but golf-specific shirts are usually better. Fishing shirts often share the same core technologies like UPF 50+ protection and moisture-wicking fabric. However, they are often designed with a much looser, baggier fit to maximize airflow and may have extra pockets, loops, or vents that can get in the way of a smooth golf swing. Golf shirts are tailored specifically for the rotational movement of the sport.

What is the best material for a golf sun shirt?

Polyester and synthetic blends that include spandex or elastane are the best materials. These materials are far superior to cotton for activewear. They are lightweight, highly breathable, excel at wicking moisture away from the skin, and hold their shape well. They also provide an excellent base for a dense weave that results in a high UPF rating.

What color shirt is best for sun protection?

While darker or brighter colors absorb more UV rays, the UPF rating is far more important. A dark cotton t-shirt might offer more protection than a white one, but a white shirt with a certified UPF 50+ rating is vastly more protective than any standard cotton shirt, regardless of color. You should always choose based on the UPF rating first.

Do I still need sunscreen with a UPF shirt?

Yes, you still need sunscreen for any skin that is not covered by the shirt. This is a critical part of a complete sun protection strategy. You must apply sunscreen to your face, ears, the back of your neck (if not covered by a collar), and your hands. If you’re wearing a short-sleeve shirt, you also need to apply it thoroughly to your exposed arms.

Are more expensive golf shirts worth it?

They can be, depending on your priorities. More expensive shirts from top-tier brands like Callaway often feature advanced, proprietary fabric technologies that can offer a slight edge in cooling or moisture-wicking. They also may have more refined tailoring. However, as this review shows, budget-friendly options can offer identical or even superior UPF 50+ protection, so it depends if you’re willing to pay a premium for brand name and marginal tech gains.

Final Verdict

Staying protected from the sun on the golf course doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or style. After weeks of evaluation, it’s clear that modern fabric technology has made it possible to have it all. The best golf sun shirts today offer a fantastic combination of a high UPF rating, breathable materials, and a fit designed for the athletic movements of golf.

After comparing all the options, my final recommendation is clear.

Perfect for you if…
* You want the highest level of certified UPF 50+ sun protection.
* You prioritize a lightweight, breathable fabric that feels cool to the touch.
* You need 4-way stretch for a completely unrestricted golf swing.
* You prefer a classic, timeless polo style that fits in at any course.
* You appreciate getting premium performance and features at an excellent value.

For its unbeatable blend of all these qualities, the Generic Long Sleeve Golf Polo (B09XJ31GX7) is my top recommendation for most golfers.

Not ideal for…
* Golfers who prioritize a well-known brand name above all else.
* Players looking for a very slim, athletic-tapered fit.

If brand recognition and the absolute best moisture-wicking technology are your top priorities—and you are diligent about applying sunscreen—then the Callaway Core Performance Polo (B086DBK7JX) is an excellent, pro-level alternative. However, for uncompromising sun safety combined with all-around performance, the choice is clear. Investing in a quality sun shirt is one of the smartest decisions you can make for a more comfortable and safer experience on the course.

Last update on 2026-02-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API