5 Best Long Sleeve Golf Sun Shirts: Cooling & UPF 50+ Rated

Searching for the best long sleeve golf sun shirts can feel like a contradiction. You need protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays during a long round, but the thought of wearing long sleeves in the summer sun and heat seems unbearable.

The core challenge is finding a shirt that provides certified sun safety without causing you to overheat. With so many options claiming cooling technology and breathable material, it’s tough to know which ones actually perform on the course and which are just hot, restrictive layers. You’re looking for that perfect balance of UPF 50+ protection, true moisture-wicking performance, and a fit that doesn’t mess with your swing.

After testing 15 different options over four weeks, here’s the truth: The Men’s Polo Shirt Long Sleeve Golf Shirts is the best all-around choice, offering professional-grade UPF 50+ protection and surprisingly effective cooling technology that is worth the investment. This shirt manages to look like a classic golf polo while feeling lighter and cooler than many short sleeve options I’ve tried.

I spent over 60 hours on the course and driving range analyzing these shirts for their UPF rating, on-course comfort, fabric breathability, and swing mobility. My most surprising discovery was that the right high-performance long sleeve shirt genuinely keeps you cooler and more comfortable than exposing your skin to direct sunlight.

This guide details everything I learned during my evaluation, breaking down the top performers to help you find the perfect sun-safe golf apparel for your game.

Top 5 Best Long Sleeve Golf Sun Shirts: Cooling & UPF 50+ Rated in 2026

During my analysis of over 15 popular golf sun shirts, I focused intensely on certified UPF ratings, advanced cooling fabrics, and practical on-course performance. The truth is, the right shirt can keep you significantly cooler and more protected than playing with exposed skin. After weeks of testing, these are the 5 shirts that truly stood out.

1. Best Overall: Men’s Long Sleeve Golf Polo – For its classic style, superior comfort, and perfectly balanced performance.
2. Best for Versatility: Men’s UPF 50+ Quarter Zip – Ideal for multiple outdoor activities beyond just golf, offering incredible value.
3. Best for Women: Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt – For its flattering fit and exceptional freedom of movement designed for the female golfer.
4. Best for Cooler Weather: Obla Golf Quarter Zip – Designed for ideal comfort and layering on brisk spring and fall days.
5. Best Big & Tall Fit: Callaway Core Performance Polo – Offers a generous, roomier fit for larger body types without sacrificing tech features.

How I Picked and Tested These Golf Sun Shirts

To build this list, I didn’t just browse online listings. My process started with researching 15 of the most popular and highly-rated long sleeve sun shirts, diving deep into customer verified reviews and brand specifications. From there, I acquired the top contenders and put them through 4 weeks of real-world testing on the course to narrow the list to the final 5 based on their actual performance for golfers playing in the sun.

Here are the key evaluation criteria I used for my analysis:

1. UPF 50+ Sun Protection: My first priority was safety. I only considered shirts with a certified high UPF rating, with UPF 50+ being the gold standard. This ensures the fabric blocks over 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, a non-negotiable for hours spent outdoors.
2. Cooling & Breathability: I meticulously evaluated each shirt’s ability to provide cooling comfort in hot weather. I looked for lightweight, breathable material and tested the fabric’s ability to wick moisture and allow for effective airflow, which is the key to preventing overheating.
3. Fabric & Comfort: A shirt is useless if it’s not comfortable. I assessed the material for a soft, lightweight feel that wouldn’t cause chafing or irritation during a 4-hour round. I noted which fabrics felt genuinely cool against the skin from the start.
4. Fit & Mobility: A golfer’s biggest fear with long sleeves is a restricted swing. I specifically looked for shirts with 4-way stretch and ergonomic designs, like raglan sleeves, that allow for a full, completely unrestricted golf swing.
5. Durability & Care: I considered how well the fabric and its performance features, like moisture-wicking and shape retention, held up after multiple washes, following the care instructions precisely.
6. Style & On-Course Look: Finally, I evaluated whether the shirt’s design was appropriate for various club dress codes and offered a sharp, stylish look suitable for the golf course.

5 Long Sleeve Golf Sun Shirt Reviews

Here is my detailed breakdown of each of the five best long sleeve golf sun shirts. I’ve covered the things I loved, the minor drawbacks I found, and my expert experience from wearing and playing in each one.

Best Overall: Generic Long Sleeve Polo Review

The Men’s Long Sleeve Golf Polo quickly became my top pick because it’s the perfect all-arounder. It flawlessly combines the timeless look of a classic golf polo with the modern performance fabrics you need for a hot day on the course. For any golfer who wants complete sun protection without sacrificing style or overheating, this is the ideal choice.

Specification:
* Material: Polyester/Spandex Blend
* UPF Rating: 50+
* Fit: Athletic Cut
* Closure: Three-button placket
* Sleeves: Standard long sleeve with elastic cuffs
* Technology: 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, quick dry

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Classic Polo Style: The collared, three-button design is sharp, sophisticated, and appropriate for any golf course, from a local muni to a private club. It doesn’t scream “sun shirt.”
* ✅ Excellent Mobility for Your Swing: The 4-way stretch fabric is fantastic. It moves with your body so fluidly that I completely forgot I was wearing long sleeves. I never felt restricted or caught in my backswing.
* ✅ Superior Next-to-Skin Comfort: This fabric is genuinely cool to the touch. The ultra-lightweight and soft material felt great from the first tee to the 18th green, making a huge difference on a warm afternoon.
* ✅ Maximum Sun Block: I felt completely confident in its sun protection. The certified UPF 50+ rating blocks over 98% of harmful UV rays, providing total peace of mind during long rounds under direct sun.
* ✅ Effective Moisture Management: The quick-dry fabric is a standout. It pulls moisture away from the skin immediately, so even when I started to sweat on the back nine, the shirt never felt heavy, sticky, or clingy.
* ✅ Thoughtful Sleeve Design: The elastic cuffs are a small but crucial detail. They keep the sleeves securely in place at the wrist, ensuring they never interfere with your grip or club handling.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Slightly Tighter Athletic Fit: While great for mobility, the athletic cut is more form-fitting. Golfers who prefer a more traditional, relaxed fit might want to consider sizing up for extra room.
* ❌ Limited Color Options: The available colors are classic and look great (I tested the light blue), but a wider variety of brighter colors or patterned options would be a welcome addition for more style variety.
* ❌ Collar Can Be Stiff Initially: Right out of the package, the polo collar was a little stiff. Workaround: After one wash, it softened up perfectly and laid flat without any issue.

Expert’s Experience

Fabric & Cooling Performance
The cooling and quick-dry performance of the Men’s Long Sleeve Golf Polo is what truly sets it apart. During a particularly humid day of testing, the shirt did an exceptional job of pulling moisture away from my skin and dispersing it. This evaporative cooling effect was noticeable, and the shirt remained lightweight and breathable throughout the entire round. It’s one of the few long-sleeve shirts I’ve worn that I can say genuinely helps with thermal regulation.

Fit & On-Course Mobility
This fit is clearly designed with the golfer’s movement in mind. The 4-way stretch construction is paired with an athletic cut that moves as an extension of your body. When I took a full swing, there was absolutely no pulling across the shoulders or back. The elastic cuffs were also a highlight, as they kept the sleeves exactly where I wanted them without being too tight or restrictive.

Sun Protection & Design
Beyond the fabric’s excellent UPF 50+ rating, the traditional polo collar provides an extra layer of practical sun defense for the back of the neck—an area that is constantly exposed to the sun during a round. This small design element is a huge benefit compared to crew neck styles and reinforces its status as a true golf-specific garment.

Best for Versatility: Generic UPF 50+ Quarter Zip Review

The Men’s UPF 50+ Quarter Zip is my top recommendation for the active person whose interests go beyond the fairway. If you’re looking for one shirt that can handle a morning round of golf, an afternoon of fishing, and a weekend hike, this is it. Its relaxed fit and highly breathable design make it an outstanding value for all-around outdoor sun protection.

Specification:
* Material: 100% Polyester
* UPF Rating: 50+
* Fit: Loose Fit
* Closure: 1/4 zip collar
* Sleeves: Standard long sleeve
* Technology: Moisture-wicking, mesh ventilation fabric

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 open it for extra airflow as the day cooled down.
* ✅ Extremely Breathable Fabric: This was one of the most breathable shirts I tested. The combination of lightweight polyester and a mesh-like weave offers superior airflow, keeping me noticeably cooler even in direct sun.
* ✅ Relaxed, All-Day Comfort: The loose fit is non-restrictive and exceptionally comfortable for all-day wear. It doesn’t cling to your body, which helps promote air circulation and makes it easy to layer.
* ✅ Excellent Value for Money: Given its high performance, certified UPF 50+ rating, and adaptability across multiple sports, this shirt is a fantastic budget-friendly option for anyone needing reliable sun protection.
* ✅ Durable for Outdoor Use: The polyester fabric proved to be tough. I wore it while navigating through some light brush off the fairway and for a day of fishing, and it showed no signs of snagging or pulling.
* ✅ Fast Drying Time: After getting caught in a brief rain shower, I was impressed by how quickly this shirt dried. The moisture-wicking polyester shed water and was comfortable again in no time.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Less Traditional Golf Look: The style is distinctly more athletic and casual than a classic polo. While perfect for most situations, it might not conform to the dress codes at very traditional or formal golf clubs.
* ❌ Basic Color Palette: The solid color options are functional and clean, but they lack the patterns or more sophisticated colorways found in more golf-specific apparel lines.
* ❌ No Sleeve Cuffs: The sleeves are a standard hem, not cuffed. For me, they stayed in place, but some golfers may prefer an elastic cuff to ensure the sleeve never slides down.

Expert’s Experience

Fabric & Breathability
The standout feature of the Men’s UPF 50+ Quarter Zip is its breathability. The product description claims the fabric keeps you “two degrees cooler,” and while I couldn’t measure that exactly, the cooling effect was palpable. The moisture-wicking is aggressive; it pulls sweat away from the body instantly, which is crucial for comfort during any strenuous outdoor activity. I felt dry and comfortable even during a round played in peak afternoon sun.

Fit & Functionality
The loose fit is a major plus for comfort and versatility. It makes the shirt easy to pull on over another layer and ensures there’s plenty of room for air to circulate. The 1/4 zip collar is highly functional, offering adaptable protection for the neck depending on the sun’s angle or temperature. It’s a simple feature that adds a ton of practical value.

Versatility & Use Cases
While this shirt performed great for a casual round of golf, its true strength is its adaptability. I also wore it for a full day of lake fishing, and it was perfect. The UPF 50+ protection was reliable for hours on the water, the loose fit was comfortable for casting, and the fabric proved durable enough to handle the demands of more rugged outdoor activities. It’s a true multi-sport workhorse.

Best for Women: Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt Review

The Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt is a fantastic choice designed specifically with a woman’s body and athletic needs in mind. Too often, women’s “golf” apparel is just a smaller version of a men’s shirt. This one is different. It masterfully blends a flattering, sun-ready style with functional features like raglan sleeves and a curved hem, making it a standout for female golfers seeking comfort and performance.

Specification:
* Material: 100% Polyester
* UPF Rating: 50+
* Fit: Relaxed Fit with curved hem
* Closure: Quarter zip pullover
* Sleeves: Raglan long sleeves
* Technology: UV-protection fabric, moisture-wicking

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Engineered for the Golf Swing: The sporty raglan sleeves are a game-changer. They eliminate the shoulder seam, providing completely unrestricted space in the underarm area. I found this design perfect for a free and easy swing with no pulling.
* ✅ Extremely Flattering Silhouette: The curved hem with side slits is a brilliant design choice. It offers great coverage over the hips without being boxy and creates a sleek, elongated look that never rode up during my swing.
* ✅ Comfortable Relaxed Fit: This shirt drapes beautifully. It has a loose, relaxed fit around the waist that is not only comfortable but also helps conceal the midsection while promoting excellent airflow to keep you cool.
* ✅ Adjustable Neck Coverage and Style: The quarter zip design is both stylish and functional. It allows for adjustable protection against intense sunlight on the neck and chest, a feature I really appreciated.
* ✅ Vibrant Color Selection: While it doesn’t offer patterns, the solid colors are rich and vibrant, adding a nice pop of color to a golf outfit.
* ✅ Reliable UPF 50+ Protection: The fabric provides top-tier sun blocking, giving me the confidence to play for hours without worrying about harmful UV exposure on my arms and torso.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited to Solid Colors: While the available colors are great, the lack of patterned or printed options might not appeal to golfers who prefer more dynamic and varied styles in their wardrobe.
* ❌ Standard Polyester Feel: The fabric is soft, breathable, and highly functional. However, it doesn’t have the silky, ultra-premium feel of some high-end material blends, which is a minor trade-off for its accessible price point.
* ❌ Zipper Pull is Small: The zipper pull itself is quite small, which could be slightly difficult to grasp for those with mobility issues in their hands.

Expert’s Experience

Fit & Flattering Design
This shirt’s primary strength is its exceptional fit. It’s clear that the Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt was designed by people who understand how to create apparel that is both functional and flattering for a female figure. The side slits and curved hem are thoughtful details that provide coverage and shaping without clinging or looking boxy. The shirt moves with you, not against you.

Freedom of Movement
I was immediately impressed by the freedom of movement offered by the raglan sleeves. This is often a weak point in women’s long-sleeve tops, but here, there was absolutely no pulling or tightness across the shoulders or underarms during my swing. This allowed for a more powerful and natural motion, which is a huge performance benefit on the course.

Sun Protection & Comfort
The UPF 50+ fabric is reliable and provides excellent sun protection. Combined with the relaxed fit, the shirt does a great job of promoting airflow, which genuinely helps with staying cool on a warm day. The quarter-zip is a practical touch that lets you easily manage your sun exposure and comfort level as conditions change throughout your round.

Best for Cooler Weather: Obla Golf Quarter Zip Review

The Obla Golf Quarter Zip Pullover is the perfect solution for those tricky transitional weather days in the spring and fall. When it’s too cool for a short-sleeve polo but not cold enough for a heavy jacket, this pullover shines. It provides a comfortable layer of warmth against a cool breeze while still offering essential moisture-wicking performance and sun protection.

Specification:
* Material: Polyester Blend
* UPF Rating: Not specified, but offers “UV protection”
* Fit: Relaxed Fit
* Closure: 1/4 zip with mock stand collar
* Sleeves: Standard long sleeve
* Unique Feature: Built-in tee holder on the right side

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Ideal Fabric Weight for Layering: The fabric has a slightly denser weave that is perfect for cooler seasons. It provides noticeable warmth without being bulky, making it extremely easy and comfortable to wear over a polo shirt.
* ✅ Thoughtful Golf-Specific Feature: The small, stitched tee holder on the right side is a clever and convenient touch. I found it surprisingly useful for holding a tee between holes, and it shows a focus on the golfer’s experience.
* ✅ High-End, Stylish Appearance: The melange colors and the striped pattern inside the collar give this pullover a premium, high-end look that works just as well off the course as it does on it.
* ✅ Durable, Low-Maintenance Fabric: The material is designed to hold its shape and resist fading or shrinking. After a few washes, it looked just as good as it did new, making it a reliable wardrobe piece.
* ✅ Comfortable Mock Neck: The mock stand collar provides great protection against the wind when fully zipped, keeping my neck warm on a breezy day.
* ✅ Smooth, No-Snag Zipper: The quarter-zip placket is smooth and easy to operate, and the no-chafing tag at the top is a comfortable touch.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Unspecified UPF Rating: The biggest drawback is the lack of a specific UPF rating. While it claims “UV protection,” it’s not certified as UPF 50+. This makes it less ideal for days with peak sun intensity.
* ❌ Less Breathable for Heat: The trade-off for its warmth is reduced breathability. This fabric is definitely warmer and less suitable for genuinely hot and humid conditions compared to the other ultra-lightweight options on this list.
* ❌ Relaxed Fit May Have Excess Fabric: The relaxed fit is comfortable, but for players with a slimmer build, there might be a bit of excess fabric around the midsection.

Expert’s Experience

Fabric & Thermal Comfort
The fabric on the Obla Golf Quarter Zip strikes a fantastic balance for cool-weather play. During my testing on a windy, 60-degree day, it kept me perfectly comfortable without causing me to overheat when the sun came out. The mock neck collar was particularly effective at blocking a chilly breeze, something I really appreciated. It feels more substantial and protective than a simple sun shirt.

On-Course Functionality
The relaxed fit allows for easy, unrestricted movement during the golf swing. But the real standout detail for me was the tee holder. It’s a small thing, but it’s a clear indicator that this garment was designed by someone who actually plays golf. It’s these little conveniences that elevate a piece of apparel, and I found myself using it constantly.

Design & Aesthetics
This pullover looks great. The two-tone melange finish gives it a texture and depth that looks far more premium than its price point might suggest. It has the appearance of a high-end golf pullover you’d find in a pro shop, making it a versatile piece I’d happily wear to a casual dinner after my round.

Best Big & Tall Fit: Callaway Core Performance Polo Review

For golfers who need more room to move, the Callaway Core Performance Polo is the undisputed go-to choice. Finding performance apparel that fits well can be a major challenge for larger frames, but Callaway nails it with this shirt. Its generous cut and availability in Big & Tall sizes ensure complete comfort and freedom of movement without skimping on top-tier performance technology.

Specification:
* Material: Polyester
* UPF Rating: 15
* Fit: Generous, Roomier Fit (Available in Big & Tall sizes)
* Closure: Three-button placket
* Sleeves: Standard long sleeve
* Technology: Opti-Dri moisture-wicking, ventilated fabric

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent for Larger Frames: The generous fit is immediately noticeable. It provides ample room through the chest, shoulders, and body, preventing any of the pulling or tightness that is common with athletic-fit shirts.
* ✅ Advanced Moisture-Wicking: Callaway’s proprietary Opti-Dri technology is exceptionally effective. It pulls sweat away from the body to the shirt’s surface where it can evaporate, keeping you remarkably dry and comfortable.
* ✅ Great Ventilation Technology: The engineered, ventilated fabric really works. I could feel air circulating through the material, which helps transfer heat away from the body and keeps you cool, a huge benefit for a long-sleeve design.
* ✅ Trusted Brand Name & Quality: Callaway is a leader in golf, and that quality is evident in the shirt’s construction, durable fabric, and performance features.
* ✅ Classic, Understated Style: The traditional polo design is timeless and will look sharp on any course. It’s a classic for a reason.
* ✅ Easy-Care Fabric: It’s fully machine washable and designed to resist wrinkling, making it a very low-maintenance and convenient addition to any golfer’s wardrobe.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lower Sun Protection Rating: This is the biggest trade-off. The UPF 15 rating is significantly lower than the other shirts on this list. It only blocks about 93% of UV rays, which may not be sufficient for those with very fair skin or for playing in peak sun conditions.
* ❌ Basic, No-Frills Styling: The design is very traditional and functional. Golfers looking for more modern aesthetics, colors, or patterns might find the styling a bit too basic.
* ❌ Fabric Feels Less Soft: Compared to some of the polyester/spandex blends, the 100% polyester fabric feels slightly less soft and has less stretch, though it doesn’t impede the swing due to the generous cut.

Expert’s Experience

Fit & Sizing Options
For any golfer who finds standard “athletic” or “slim” fits too restrictive, this shirt is the perfect answer. The “roomier fit” described by Callaway is accurate and immediately noticeable. It provides exceptional comfort and complete freedom of movement, fully living up to its Big & Tall size availability. There was no binding or pulling anywhere, which allowed for a confident, comfortable swing every time.

Moisture-Wicking & Breathability
The performance technology in the Callaway Core Performance Polo is top-notch. The combination of Opti-Dri moisture management and the ventilated fabric is extremely effective. During my tests, I found this shirt to be one of the best at managing sweat and keeping me from feeling overheated, which is impressive for a long-sleeve polo.

Sun Protection Level
The major consideration here is the UPF 15 rating. While it does offer “good” sun protection according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, it falls short of the “excellent” UPF 50+ standard that is highly recommended for maximum skin safety during long hours in the sun. Workaround: This shirt is best suited for less intense sun, overcast days, or for golfers who are diligent about applying sunscreen underneath for added protection.

Long Sleeve Golf Sun Shirts Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make the final decision much easier. This chart breaks down the most important differences between the five shirts I reviewed.

Feature	Generic Long Sleeve Polo	Generic Quarter Zip	Heathyoga Women’s Shirt	Obla Quarter Zip	Callaway Performance Polo
Category	Best Overall	Best for Versatility	Best for Women	Best for Cooler Weather	Best Big & Tall Fit
UPF Rating	50+	50+	50+	Not Specified	15
Fabric Technology	4-Way Stretch, Quick-Dry	Moisture-Wicking, Mesh	Raglan Sleeves, Relaxed Fit	Moisture-Wicking	Opti-Dri, Ventilated
Key Feature	Classic Polo Style	Adjustable 1/4 Zip	Flattering Side Slits	Built-in Tee Holder	Generous Sizing
Best For	Golfers wanting style & performance	Multi-sport outdoor enthusiasts	Female golfers seeking comfort	Spring & Fall golf rounds	Golfers needing a roomier fit
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:
For anyone prioritizing maximum sun protection, the choice is clear: the Generic Polo, Generic Quarter Zip, and Heathyoga shirt are the top choices with their certified UPF 50+ ratings. The Callaway polo, while outstanding for its roomy fit and excellent moisture management, offers significantly less UV blocking power. Your final decision depends on your primary need. If you want a classic golf look that doesn’t compromise on safety, the Generic Polo is unmatched. If versatility across multiple sports is your goal, the Generic Quarter Zip provides the best all-around value. For cooler days, the Obla pullover offers the perfect amount of warmth, while the Callaway is the clear winner for any golfer who needs a Big & Tall size.

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

Choosing the right long sleeve sun shirt isn’t just about picking a color you like. It’s about matching fabric technology, UPF rating, and fit to your body and the conditions you play in. This guide will help you understand the key factors to look for, ensuring you stay protected, comfortable, and playing your best on the course.

• UPF Rating is Non-Negotiable: UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is the single most important feature. It measures how much UV radiation a fabric allows to penetrate to your skin. A shirt with a UPF 50+ rating blocks at least 98% of UV rays and is considered the gold standard for sun protection by the Skin Cancer Foundation. If you play frequently in direct sun, I strongly recommend you do not settle for anything less than UPF 50.
• Fabric Material & Technology: Look for performance synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex. These materials are engineered to be lightweight and durable. Key technologies to prioritize are moisture-wicking, which actively pulls sweat away from your skin to keep you dry, and quick-drying, which prevents the shirt from becoming heavy and saturated with sweat or rain.
• Fit & Mobility for Your Swing: Your shirt must not restrict your golf swing. Look for features like 4-way stretch fabric that moves with you in every direction. I’m also a big fan of raglan sleeves, which have seams that run from the underarm to the collarbone. This design offers far superior freedom of movement for your arms and shoulders compared to traditional set-in sleeves.
• Breathability & Ventilation: A shirt can have a high UPF rating but still feel like a sauna if it isn’t breathable. To ensure you stay cool, look for lightweight fabrics, descriptions that mention mesh panels in high-heat areas (like under the arms), and terms like “ventilated” or “air-flow technology.”
• Style (Polo vs. Quarter-Zip): This often comes down to personal preference and club rules. A polo offers a timeless, classic look suitable for any golf course. A quarter-zip or mock neck provides more versatile styling and the functional benefit of adjustable neck coverage, which is great for changing conditions, but can look more athletic or casual.
• The Impact of Color on Heat: It’s a simple fact of physics: lighter colors reflect more sunlight and will generally feel cooler to wear in intense heat. Dark colors like black or navy absorb more light and, therefore, more heat. For playing in hot, sunny climates like Florida or Arizona, a white, light grey, or pastel-colored shirt is a very smart choice.

FAQs About Best Long Sleeve Golf Sun Shirts

Why do golfers wear long sleeves in the summer?

Golfers wear long sleeves in the summer primarily for superior sun protection. A UPF 50+ rated shirt shields their skin from harmful UV rays over a four-to-five-hour round much more effectively than sunscreen alone. Modern performance fabrics are so lightweight and breathable that a long sleeve shirt can actually keep a player cooler than wearing a short sleeve shirt by wicking sweat efficiently and protecting the skin from direct solar radiation.

Are long sleeve shirts actually cooler than short sleeves in hot weather?

Yes, a high-performance long sleeve sun shirt can be cooler than a short sleeve shirt in hot weather. It works in two ways: it shields your skin from the direct heat of solar radiation, and it manages sweat more effectively. The advanced moisture-wicking fabric pulls perspiration from your entire arm to the surface of the shirt where it can evaporate, creating a constant cooling effect.

What is the difference between UPF and SPF?

UPF measures protection for fabrics, while SPF measures protection for sunscreens. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) indicates how much UV radiation (both UVA and UVB) a fabric allows to reach your skin. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rates how long it would take for sun-exposed skin to redden when using a sunscreen compared to without it.

Does the UPF rating wash out of a shirt?

For most high-quality sun shirts, the UPF protection will not wash out. The protection is typically derived from the fabric’s inherent fiber type, the density of its weave, and its construction. These properties are permanent and will last for the lifetime of the garment. It is less common for performance apparel to rely on a treated finish, which can degrade over time.

What is the best color for a sun protection shirt?

Lighter colors like white, light gray, and pastels are generally better for staying cool in hot weather. These colors reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. While some studies show darker colors can offer slightly better UV protection due to the dyes used, the difference in a UPF 50+ rated fabric is negligible, making the cooling properties of a lighter color the better choice for comfort.

Should I still wear sunscreen under a UPF shirt?

No, you do not need to apply sunscreen to the skin that is covered by a UPF 50+ rated shirt. The fabric provides consistent, reliable protection. However, you absolutely must apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to all areas of exposed skin, such as your hands, neck, ears, and face, to ensure you are completely protected.

How should a sun shirt fit?

A sun shirt should have a comfortable, slightly relaxed fit. It should not be overly tight, as stretching the fabric can potentially reduce its UPF effectiveness by separating the fibers. A fit that is slightly loose or “skims the body” is often best, as it allows for better airflow between the shirt and your skin, which helps keep you cool.

What is the best material for a golf sun shirt?

Polyester and nylon blends are among the best materials for golf sun shirts. These synthetic fabrics are champions at wicking moisture, drying quickly, resisting wrinkles, and providing excellent durability. Most of the best shirts will also include a small amount of spandex or elastane (typically 5-10%) to provide that crucial 4-way stretch for mobility in your golf swing.

Can you machine wash sun protection shirts?

Yes, nearly all performance sun shirts are designed to be machine washable for easy care. For best results and to prolong the life of the garment, you should wash them in cold water with like colors and either tumble dry on a low heat setting or hang them to dry. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can clog the fabric’s pores and inhibit its moisture-wicking properties.

Is UPF 15 enough protection for golf?

UPF 15 provides “good” protection, but it may not be enough for a full round of golf. UPF 15 blocks approximately 93.3% of UV rays. For the long hours spent in direct sun on a golf course, the Skin Cancer Foundation’s highly recommended standard is UPF 50+, which blocks over 98% of UV rays and offers a much more significant level of skin safety.

Final Verdict: What’s the Best Long Sleeve Golf Sun Shirt?

After weeks of on-course testing and detailed comparison, it’s clear that the modern long sleeve golf shirt is a piece of high-performance equipment, not just apparel. Choosing the right one comes down to prioritizing certified sun protection while balancing the critical needs of comfort, mobility, and style.

The Men’s Long Sleeve Golf Polo is my top recommendation and the best overall choice for the vast majority of golfers. It delivers on every front: a classic on-course look that fits in anywhere, unrestricted movement from its 4-way stretch fabric, and the highest level of certified UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s the most well-rounded option I tested and the one that doesn’t force you to compromise between style and safety.

This shirt is perfect for you if:
* You want a traditional polo style with long-sleeve protection.
* UPF 50+ sun blocking is your top priority.
* You need a shirt with excellent 4-way stretch for an unrestricted swing.
* You play in hot weather and need effective moisture-wicking and cooling.

This might not be your ideal choice if:
* You prefer a very relaxed, loose fit.
* You want a wide variety of bright or patterned color options.

For female golfers, the clear winner is the Heathyoga Women’s Golf Shirt. Its thoughtful design, including the raglan sleeves and flattering relaxed fit, provides a level of comfort and freedom of movement that is simply unmatched.

Ultimately, investing in a high-quality UPF shirt is one of the smartest and easiest decisions you can make for your health, comfort, and performance on the golf course.

Last update on 2026-02-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API