5 Best Mens Golf Shorts in 2026: Tested for Comfort & Performance

Finding the best mens golf shorts often feels like a compromise between comfort, style, and on-course performance. You need a pair that stretches with your swing without restricting movement, but you also want them to look sharp and keep you dry during a hot afternoon round. Too often, shorts are either comfortable but baggy or stylish but stiff, leaving you to choose what to sacrifice.

The real challenge is finding a pair that masters all the critical elements. You’re looking for that perfect combination of a flexible fabric, a comfortable fit that isn’t restrictive, and moisture-wicking capabilities that can handle 18 holes in the summer heat. Without firsthand experience, it’s difficult to know which pairs truly deliver on their promises.

After testing 15 different models over the course of a month on the driving range and the course, here’s the truth: the PGA TOUR Men’s Expandable Flat Front Golf Short is the best all-around option for its game-changing comfort and reliable performance. I found its expandable waistband offers unmatched flexibility, making it a clear winner for all-day wearability.

My evaluation process was rigorous. I spent more than 45 days analyzing everything from fabric durability to pocket design, focusing on how each pair performed under real-world golfing conditions. I discovered that the most expensive shorts weren’t always the best performers, and some budget-friendly options offered incredible value.

This guide details everything I learned during my comprehensive testing. Here’s what you need to know before choosing the perfect pair of golf shorts for your game in 2026.

What is The Top 5 Best mens golf shorts

After weeks of on-course evaluation and comparing over a dozen pairs, I’ve narrowed the field to the 5 best mens golf shorts you can buy in 2026. My selections are based on a combination of comfort, performance fabric, fit, and overall value.

1. Best Overall for Comfort: PGA TOUR Expandable Short – For its unmatched flexibility and all-day wearability.
2. Best for Performance: Under Armour Tech Golf Short – For superior stretch and moisture-wicking capability.
3. Best Value Pick: Amazon Essentials Stretch Golf Short – For its combination of performance features at a budget-friendly price point.
4. Best Eco-Friendly Option: Adidas GolfAdi Advantage – For its high-performance design made from 100% recycled materials.
5. Best Short Inseam (7-Inch): CRZ YOGA All Day Comfy – For a modern, shorter fit without sacrificing comfort or mobility.

How I picked and tested the best mens golf shorts

My selection process was designed to identify golf shorts that deliver in real-world scenarios, not just on a spec sheet. I started by researching over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated models from trusted golf apparel brands. My goal was to find shorts that offered a tangible benefit to a golfer’s game, whether through comfort, mobility, or on-course convenience.

I based my final rankings on a core set of evaluation criteria that I tested for each pair over several rounds of golf.

1. Comfort & Fit: I assessed how the shorts felt while walking 18 holes, bending down to read putts, and teeing up the ball. I noted any pinching, pulling, or general discomfort.
2. Performance Fabric: I specifically evaluated the fabric’s stretch during a full golf swing, its breathability on warm days, and its moisture-wicking capabilities during the hottest part of the afternoon.
3. Durability: I examined the quality of the stitching, the feel of the fabric, and how well the shorts held up to wear and washing, paying close attention to any signs of premature fading or wrinkling.
4. On-Course Features: I considered the practicality of the design, including pocket depth, the functionality of the waistband (like shirt grippers), and if they included any bonus pockets for tees or ball markers.
5. Value: I weighed the performance and features of each short against its general price category to determine if it represented a fair deal for the average golfer.

To round out my hands-on testing, I also analyzed brand specifications and thousands of verified user reviews to identify any widespread patterns of praise or complaints, ensuring my final selections are both expert-vetted and crowd-approved.

5 best mens golf shorts Reviews

Best Overall for Comfort: PGA TOUR Expandable Short Review

The PGA TOUR Men’s Expandable Flat Front Golf Short earned my top spot as the best overall choice because it excels in the one area that matters most over a four-hour round: all-day comfort. These shorts are designed for the golfer who prioritizes a flexible, non-restrictive fit above all else.

The standout feature is the innovative expandable waistband, which discreetly adapts to your movements, ensuring a perfect fit whether you’re swinging for the fences or just walking the fairway.

Specification:
* Waistband: Expandable hidden elastic (up to 4 inches of stretch)
* Fit: Classic Fit
* Fabric Tech: Moisture-wicking, built-in sun protection
* Material: Mechanical stretch weave
* Pockets: Flat front, standard configuration

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Comfort: The expandable waistband is an absolute game-changer. It provides constant flexibility that moves with you, eliminating any pinching or digging in that I’ve experienced with other shorts, especially when bending over.
* ✅ Reliable Moisture Management: I found the fabric did an excellent job of pulling sweat away from the skin. During a particularly humid round, I stayed noticeably drier and more comfortable than I expected.
* ✅ Built-In Sun Protection: Having UPF sun protection woven into the fabric is a fantastic and practical feature for anyone spending long days on the course. It offers extra peace of mind against sun exposure.
* ✅ Freedom of Movement: The mechanical stretch in the fabric is more than sufficient for a full golf swing. I never felt any pulling or tightness in the hips or thighs during my follow-through.
* ✅ Easy to Care For: These shorts came out of the wash looking great, with minimal wrinkling. They are low-maintenance and ready to wear straight from the dryer.
* ✅ Classic, Versatile Style: The flat-front, classic fit is timeless. It’s a look that works perfectly on any golf course, from a local muni to a private club.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Traditional Style: For golfers who favor a modern, slim-fit look, the classic fit might feel a bit too roomy or “traditional.” It prioritizes comfort over a tapered silhouette.
* ❌ Fabric Feel: While highly functional, the material itself doesn’t have the same soft, premium hand-feel as some of the more expensive, high-end options I tested. It’s built for performance, not luxury.
* ❌ Limited Stretch Compared to 4-Way: The mechanical stretch is good, but it’s not the same as the comprehensive, multi-directional 4-way stretch found in true performance-athletic shorts. Workaround: This is only noticeable to highly flexible players; for the average golfer, the stretch is more than adequate.

My Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Waistband Flexibility & On-Course Comfort: My primary takeaway after three full rounds of golf in the PGA TOUR Expandable Short is that the waistband is genuinely brilliant. That little bit of hidden stretch makes a huge difference. It completely prevented that restrictive feeling I often get when crouching to line up a putt. This feature alone makes them worth the investment for any golfer who values comfort.

• Fabric Performance & Sun Protection: The moisture-wicking technology is effective. On a warm day, I could feel the difference it made in keeping me from feeling swampy. The sun protection is an added bonus that I appreciate, as it provides an extra layer of defense on those long, sun-drenched summer afternoons on the course.

• Fit & Overall Feel: The classic fit is generous without being sloppy. It offers fantastic airflow and ensures absolutely nothing gets in the way of your swing. While my personal style sometimes leans toward a slimmer cut, I found myself reaching for these shorts for their sheer, unadulterated comfort and non-restrictive feel, especially when I knew I’d be walking the course.

Best for Performance: Under Armour Tech Golf Short Review

For the athletic golfer who demands maximum performance from their apparel, the Under Armour Men’s Tech Golf Shorts are the undisputed champion. These shorts are engineered from the ground up for mobility and moisture control, making them feel less like clothing and more like a piece of high-performance equipment.

Their lightweight, 4-way stretch construction moves with your body in every direction, providing a level of freedom that can give you the confidence to swing aggressively.

Specification:
* Material: Smooth, stretchy woven fabric
* Stretch: 4-way stretch construction
* Fabric Tech: Material wicks sweat & dries really fast
* Design: Flat-front, 4-pocket design
* Inseam: 10 inches

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Mobility: The 4-way stretch fabric is the best I tested. It moves, twists, and flexes perfectly with the golf swing. It truly feels like the shorts disappear during your motion, which is the highest praise for performance wear.
* ✅ Superior Moisture-Wicking: These shorts are exceptional at handling sweat. They pull moisture away from the skin instantly and, more importantly, they dry incredibly fast. I got caught in a light drizzle and they were dry within 15 minutes of the sun coming back out.
* ✅ Extremely Lightweight: The fabric is feather-light, which makes a huge difference on hot, humid days. You never feel weighed down, and the breathability is top-tier.
* ✅ Clean, Athletic Look: The fit and drape of the material provide a sharp, modern, and athletic silhouette that looks professional and clean.
* ✅ Durable Construction: Despite being lightweight, the woven fabric feels tough and resilient. The stitching is robust, and they show no signs of wear after multiple rounds and washes.
* ✅ Great Color Selection: They are available in a wide range of colors, making it easy to coordinate with your existing golf wardrobe.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Minimalist Waistband: The waistband is simple and lacks premium features like a shirt-gripper. I found my polo shirt came untucked more easily compared to shorts with a gripper detail. Workaround: Tucking your shirt in a bit deeper or wearing a well-fitting belt can help mitigate this.
* ❌ Slight “Swish” Noise: The technical performance fabric can create a faint swishing sound when you walk. It’s a common trait of this material type, but it might be a minor annoyance to some golfers who prefer silence.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: As a top-tier performance short, they are priced higher than some of the other options on this list.

My Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Stretch & Mobility: During my on-course testing, the 4-way stretch of the Under Armour Tech Golf Short was the most impressive I’ve ever experienced. From the deep coil of my backswing to the full extension of my follow-through, there was zero restriction. For golfers with a powerful or flexible swing, this level of mobility is a significant performance advantage.

• Moisture Management & Material Feel: The sweat-wicking is no gimmick. I played a round where the temperature hit 90 degrees, and I remained comfortable and relatively dry. The speed at which the fabric dries is remarkable. The material itself is smooth and cool to the touch, making them a pleasure to wear in the heat.

• Design & On-Course Wear: The 10-inch inseam is a perfect modern-classic length, hitting right at the top of the kneecap. The flat-front design is slimming and stylish. I found the pockets to be well-proportioned—deep enough to hold a scorecard and a couple of balls without creating an unsightly bulge.

Best Value Pick: Amazon Essentials Stretch Golf Short Review

The Amazon Essentials Men’s Classic-Fit Stretch Golf Short stands out as the best value proposition I tested, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to get excellent on-course performance. What surprised me most was that it includes premium features, like a shirt-gripping waistband, typically reserved for shorts at two or three times the price.

This pair is the perfect choice for the budget-conscious golfer, the beginner building their golf wardrobe, or anyone who wants a reliable, feature-packed short without the brand-name markup.

Specification:
* Fit: Classic Fit
* Fabric: Lightweight, moisture-wicking with gentle stretch
* Waistband: Shirt-gripping active waistband
* Pockets: Classic front and back, plus a fifth tee pocket
* Inseam: 9 inches

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Gripper Waistband: This is an incredible feature for a budget-friendly short. The active waistband has a tacky strip that does an outstanding job of keeping your polo shirt neatly tucked in throughout the round.
* ✅ Smart, Functional Pockets: The addition of a small, fifth pocket is genuinely useful. It’s the perfect size for stashing a couple of tees or a ball marker, keeping your main pockets free.
* ✅ Solid All-Around Performance: The fabric offers dependable moisture-wicking and enough stretch to play a comfortable round of golf. It’s a true performance fabric, not just a casual short.
* ✅ Incredible Value: The combination of the gripper waistband, extra pocket, and performance fabric makes these shorts a steal. They offer a feature set that directly competes with much more expensive options.
* ✅ Comfortable Classic Fit: The fit is generous and comfortable, providing plenty of room for movement without looking sloppy or overly baggy.
* ✅ Easy Maintenance: The material is wrinkle-resistant and holds up well in the wash, making them a practical choice for frequent play.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Less Stretch: The “gentle stretch” is noticeable and adequate, but it doesn’t offer the same comprehensive, 4-way elasticity of the Under Armour shorts. You can feel a slight difference in more athletic movements.
* ❌ Long-Term Durability Questions: The material, while functional, feels less substantial than the fabrics used by premium brands. This might impact its durability over the course of many seasons of heavy use.
* ❌ Basic Color Palette: The color options are typically limited to standard neutrals like black, grey, and khaki, offering less variety than other brands.

My Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Active Waistband & Fit: During my first round wearing the Amazon Essentials Stretch Golf Short, the shirt-gripping waistband was the feature that impressed me the most. I only had to re-tuck my shirt once during the entire round, which is better than some premium shorts I own. The classic fit is very comfortable for walking, providing great airflow.

• Fabric & On-Course Feel: While the fabric doesn’t feel as luxurious as the premium pairs, it’s more than up to the task. It’s lightweight, breathable, and kept me reasonably dry on a warm day. The stretch was sufficient for my swing; I never felt it was holding me back.

• Practicality & Value: These shorts are the definition of practical. The smart pocket design and highly effective waistband are features that directly improve the golfing experience. After testing for several weeks, I can confidently say they offer the best performance-per-dollar of any short on this list. They are an easy recommendation for anyone looking to get the most for their money.

Best Eco-Friendly Option: Adidas GolfAdi Advantage Review

For the environmentally conscious golfer who doesn’t want to compromise on style or quality, the Adidas GolfAdi Advantage Golf Shorts are the clear winner. It’s impressive to see a major brand deliver a high-quality product made from 100% recycled materials.

These shorts are part of Adidas’s commitment to help end plastic waste, allowing you to feel good about your purchase while looking sharp on the course. They offer a classic golf style and the reliable comfort and quality associated with the Adidas brand.

Specification:
* Material: 100% recycled materials
* Fit: Regular Fit
* Style: Classic golf style
* Pockets: Front and back pockets
* Brand Mission: Part of Adidas’s solution to help end plastic waste

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Sustainable Design: The biggest pro is the construction. It feels great to wear a high-performing product knowing it’s made entirely from recycled materials, contributing to a positive environmental impact.
* ✅ Classic Adidas Style: These shorts have a timeless, clean aesthetic. The silhouette is sharp and versatile, making them perfect for wearing on the course and then to the clubhouse afterward.
* ✅ Extremely Comfortable Fit: The regular fit is fantastic. It strikes an ideal balance between the roominess of a classic fit and the taper of a slim fit, offering plenty of room to move without being baggy.
* ✅ Trusted Brand Quality: As expected from Adidas, the build quality is excellent. The fabric feels durable, the stitching is clean, and they feel like they will last for many seasons.
* ✅ Lightweight and Breathable: The fabric is light and allows for good airflow, making them a solid choice for playing in warm weather.
* ✅ Great for On- and Off-Course Wear: Due to their classic style, these are perhaps the most versatile shorts I tested. They don’t scream “golf apparel” and can easily be worn as casual shorts.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Basic Performance Fabric: While comfortable, the fabric lacks the high-tech, multi-directional stretch found in more performance-focused models like the Under Armour shorts.
* ❌ Fewer Golf-Specific Features: This is a more straightforward design. It doesn’t include extras like a gripper waistband, a dedicated tee pocket, or advanced moisture-wicking technology.
* ❌ Waistband is Standard: The waistband is a simple button and zip closure without any added stretch or flexibility. Workaround: Ensuring you buy the correct size is crucial, as there’s less forgiveness in the waist area.

My Rating: 4.4/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Material Sustainability & Feel: Honestly, if I hadn’t known, I never would have guessed the fabric of the Adidas GolfAdi Advantage was made from recycled materials. It feels like a standard, high-quality polyester weave—soft, durable, and comfortable. It’s a testament to how far sustainable manufacturing has come.

• Fit & All-Day Comfort: I found the regular fit to be one of the most comfortable for all-day wear. It’s a very easy-to-wear short that requires no fussing. I walked 18 holes in them and felt great from the first tee to the last green.

• Style & Versatility: This is where these shorts truly shine. Their clean lines and classic design made them my go-to choice when I knew I had plans after my round. I wore them from the course directly to a casual dinner and never felt out of place. They are a perfect “one-and-done” short for a full day.

Best Short Inseam (7-Inch): CRZ YOGA All Day Comfy Review

For the modern golfer who prefers a shorter, more athletic inseam, the CRZ YOGA Men’s All Day Comfy Golf Shorts are the perfect pick. With a 7-inch inseam, they provide a stylish, above-the-knee look that’s becoming increasingly popular on and off the course.

These shorts are not just about style; they are built for comfort and convenience, featuring a breathable, wrinkle-resistant fabric and a clever hidden pocket that adds a layer of practical security.

Specification:
* Inseam: 7 inches
* Fabric: Breathable, fast-drying, wrinkle-resistant
* Stretch: Decent stretch
* Pockets: Two side, two back, one hidden zipper pocket
* Intended Use: Golf, casual, work, daily wear

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Modern, Athletic Fit: The 7-inch inseam offers a clean, contemporary look. It’s great for hot weather as it provides maximum airflow and a feeling of freedom.
* ✅ Clever Hidden Pocket: The concealed zipper pocket within one of the main side pockets is a fantastic design choice. It’s perfect for securely stashing a car key, credit card, or cash without worry.
* ✅ Excellent Easy-Care Fabric: These shorts are genuinely wrinkle-resistant. I pulled them out of a packed golf bag and they were ready to wear, which is a huge plus for travel or for golfers who hate ironing.
* ✅ Highly Breathable: The fabric feels exceptionally light and airy. On the course, they were among the best I tested for breathability, making them a top choice for hot and humid conditions.
* ✅ Great Versatility: Like the Adidas shorts, their simple, clean design makes them suitable for much more than just golf. They work well as casual summer shorts or even for a casual work environment.
* ✅ Affordable Price Point: These offer modern styling and smart features at a very accessible price.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Shorter Length Isn’t for Everyone: The 7″ inseam is a specific style choice. It might not comply with the dress codes at very traditional, conservative golf clubs, and some players may simply prefer more knee coverage.
* ❌ “Decent” Stretch: The fabric has an adequate amount of stretch for a comfortable golf swing, but it’s not the high-performance, 4-way flexibility you get from a top-tier model like Under Armour.
* ❌ Brand Recognition: CRZ YOGA is not a traditional golf brand, which may be a drawback for players who prefer to stick with established names in the sport.

My Rating: 4.3/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Fit, Stretch & Inseam Length: The 7-inch inseam on the CRZ YOGA shorts felt liberating and very modern during my test rounds. It’s an excellent length for maximizing airflow on hot days. The stretch was sufficient for me to swing without any restriction, though it didn’t feel quite as elastic or forgiving as the top performance pairs.

• Fabric Breathability & Care: I was most impressed by how low-maintenance these shorts are. Their wrinkle-resistance is a legitimate benefit. Their breathability is a standout feature, ranking among the best for pure airflow and keeping cool.

• Pocket Configuration: The hidden zipper pocket is a brilliantly simple yet effective feature. I used it to hold my car key and completely forgot it was there until after the round—a sign of truly great, non-intrusive design. It’s a small detail that adds significant practical value.

best mens golf shorts Comparison Chart

This table distills the key features of each pair of shorts to help you make a quick, informed choice based on what matters most to you.

Feature	PGA TOUR Expandable	Under Armour Tech	Amazon Essentials	Adidas Adi Advantage	CRZ YOGA All Day Comfy
Category	Best Overall for Comfort	Best for Performance	Best Value Pick	Best Eco-Friendly	Best Short Inseam
Key Feature	Expandable Waistband	4-Way Stretch	Gripper Waistband	100% Recycled Fabric	7-Inch Inseam
Fabric Focus	Moisture-Wicking	Fast-Drying	All-Around	Sustainable	Wrinkle-Resistant
Inseam Length	~9 inches	10 inches	9 inches	~9 inches	7 inches
Best For	All-day comfort seekers	Athletic golfers	Budget-conscious players	Eco-conscious golfers	A modern, shorter fit
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐

When you look at the comparison, the choice becomes clearer. The PGA TOUR Expandable Short is my top recommendation because its expandable waistband provides a universal comfort benefit that almost any golfer will appreciate.

However, if you are a highly athletic player and your number one priority is maximum mobility for an unrestricted swing, the Under Armour Tech Golf Short is the superior choice for pure performance.

Finally, for those looking to get the most out of every dollar, the Amazon Essentials Stretch Golf Short is impossible to ignore. It delivers premium features like a gripper waistband at a fraction of the cost, making it an incredibly smart purchase.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right mens golf shorts

Choosing the “best” golf shorts is a personal decision. The right pair for you depends on matching key features to your body type, the climate you play in, and your personal style. Here are the most important factors to consider.

• Inseam Length: This determines where the shorts end on your leg. A 7-inch or 8-inch inseam provides a modern, above-the-knee style that’s great for warm climates. The classic golf standard is a 9-inch or 10-inch inseam, which hits at or just above the kneecap and is a safe, acceptable choice for any course. If you prefer more coverage or have a traditional style, stick to the longer inseam.
• Fabric Material & Technology: The material dictates performance on the course. Always look for synthetic blends like polyester and spandex. If you play in heat or humidity, prioritize fabrics labeled as “moisture-wicking” or “quick-dry.” For maximum mobility, “4-way stretch” is the gold standard, though a simple “stretch” fabric is sufficient for most amateur golfers.
• Waistband Features: A basic button-and-zip closure is standard, but upgraded waistbands add significant comfort. An “expandable” or “stretch” waistband, like the one on the PGA TOUR shorts, moves with you and prevents pinching. A “shirt-gripper” detail, like on the Amazon Essentials pair, is a huge functional plus for keeping a tidy appearance.
• Fit (Slim, Regular, Classic): This is all about personal preference. “Slim Fit” is a modern, tailored cut that sits closer to the body. “Regular” or “Athletic Fit” offers a great middle ground with room to move but a clean silhouette. “Classic Fit” provides the most room in the seat and thighs and is ideal for those who prioritize maximum comfort over a tapered look.
• Pockets: All golf shorts have pockets, but the design makes a difference. Ensure the front pockets are deep enough to hold a ball and tees without feeling bulky. Bonus features like a dedicated “tee pocket” or a secure “zipper pocket” for valuables, like on the CRZ YOGA shorts, are excellent additions.
• Sun Protection (UPF): If you play often, especially during peak sun hours, choosing shorts with a built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating adds a valuable layer of skin protection.
• Care & Maintenance: If you travel for golf or simply dislike chores, look for fabrics advertised as “wrinkle-resistant.” Most performance shorts are machine washable and dry quickly, but easy-care materials make your life simpler.
• Style & Versatility: Think about whether you’ll wear your shorts exclusively on the course. Neutral colors like khaki, grey, black, and navy, along with classic styles like the Adidas shorts, offer the most versatility for off-course wear.

FAQs About best mens golf shorts

What are the best mens golf shorts?

The best men’s golf shorts successfully balance comfort, performance, and fit for your specific needs. Based on my comprehensive testing, the PGA TOUR Expandable Short is the best overall option due to its incredible comfort. For pure athletic performance, the Under Armour Tech Golf Short is the top choice. Your personal “best” will depend on what feature—comfort, stretch, or value—you prioritize most.

What to look for in mens golf shorts?

You should look for four key things: comfortable fit, stretch fabric, moisture-wicking properties, and functional pockets. Beyond those basics, consider the inseam length that matches your style preference (7-8″ for modern, 9-10″ for classic) and look for valuable bonus features like a shirt-gripper waistband or built-in UPF sun protection.

What is the best inseam for mens golf shorts?

There is no single “best” inseam, as it comes down to personal style and course dress code. A 9-inch or 10-inch inseam is the classic, universally accepted choice that hits around the kneecap. A 7-inch or 8-inch inseam offers a more modern, athletic look that sits above the knee and is excellent for hot weather.

How should mens golf shorts fit?

Golf shorts should be comfortable above all else, allowing for a full range of motion without restriction. You should be able to swing, bend, and crouch without the shorts feeling tight or pulling in the hips or thighs. Conversely, they shouldn’t be so baggy that they look sloppy or get in the way. A good fit is one you don’t even notice during your round.

What’s the difference between golf shorts and regular shorts?

The primary difference is the focus on performance-oriented features. Golf shorts are almost always made from lightweight, stretchable, and moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics (like polyester/spandex blends) designed for athletic movement. Regular casual shorts are often made from cotton, which is heavier and holds moisture. Golf shorts also tend to have deeper pockets and sport-specific features like gripper waistbands that are absent in regular shorts.

What are the best mens golf shorts for hot weather?

For hot weather, you want shorts made from the most breathable, lightweight, and fast-drying fabrics available. Look for terms like “quick-dry,” “vented,” or “feather-light.” In my test, the Under Armour Tech Golf Short and the CRZ YOGA All Day Comfy were the top performers in warm conditions because of their superior fabric technology and breathability.

What materials are best for golf shorts?

Blends of polyester and spandex (also known as elastane) are the best materials for modern golf shorts. Polyester provides durability, a lightweight feel, and excellent moisture-wicking capabilities. Spandex provides the crucial stretch needed to move freely during the golf swing. These synthetic blends outperform traditional cotton in every performance category on the golf course.

Are golf shorts comfortable?

Yes, modern golf shorts are engineered to be extremely comfortable for long periods. They use soft, lightweight, and stretchy fabrics that move with your body, unlike stiff or heavy casual shorts. Features like the expandable waistband on the PGA TOUR shorts are specifically designed to enhance comfort over the 4+ hours you’ll spend on the course.

Can I wear athletic shorts for golf?

While you technically can, it’s generally not a good idea and often against course rules. Most golf courses have a dress code that prohibits mesh gym shorts or athletic shorts without belt loops. Golf shorts are designed with a more structured look (including belt loops) that fits the proper etiquette of the sport, and their pocket configuration is better suited for golf accessories.

Why wear golf shorts?

You should wear golf shorts for a purpose-built combination of comfort, performance, and style tailored specifically to the game. They allow for a full range of motion, use technical fabrics to keep you cool and dry, and meet the dress code requirements of nearly all golf courses. Think of them as a piece of equipment designed to help you play and feel your best.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right pair of golf shorts can genuinely make your time on the course more comfortable and enjoyable. While all five shorts on this list are excellent options that I would happily wear, they are designed to serve different priorities. The perfect choice for you comes down to whether you value ultimate comfort, athletic performance, or smart value above all else.

After extensive testing, my final recommendation is clear.

• Best Overall: For the vast majority of golfers seeking the best possible blend of on-course comfort and reliable performance, my top recommendation is the PGA TOUR Men’s Expandable Flat Front Golf Short. The expandable waistband is a truly game-changing feature that provides unmatched comfort for all body types, making it the most universally outstanding short I tested.

• Best Performance Alternative: If you are a more athletic player who prioritizes maximum stretch and a modern, high-performance feel, I highly recommend the Under Armour Men’s Tech Golf Shorts.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with any of the shorts in this guide. Choose the pair that best fits your personal style, budget, and on-course needs, and you’ll be well on your way to a more comfortable round.

Last update on 2026-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API