The Great Golf Style Shift
For decades, the standard golf uniform was predictable: oversized polos, pleated khakis that billowed in the wind, and shoes that looked more like bowling equipment than athletic gear. But if you walk onto a tee box today—or even into a trendy brunch spot in the city—you’ll notice something has fundamentally changed. The barrier between "golf clothes" and "real clothes" has effectively dissolved.
This shift isn't just about comfort; it’s a cultural movement often referred to as "Golf-core." As we’ve seen in various corners of the entertainment industry, the lifestyle surrounding sports is often just as influential as the game itself. Younger, style-conscious players are demanding gear that reflects their personal aesthetic, leading to a golden age of golf apparel. Influenced by a recent deep dive by Variety, we’ve rounded up the 11 brands that are currently leading this fashionable charge.
1. Malbon Golf
If there is a ground zero for the modern golf fashion revolution, it’s Malbon Golf. Founded in 2017, the brand has done the unthinkable: they made golf look like skate culture. By collaborating with giants like Nike, New Balance, and even Beats by Dre, Malbon has created a world where bucket hats and graphic hoodies feel right at home next to a set of irons. It’s the ultimate "crossover" brand for those who want to look as good at a concert as they do on the 18th green.
2. Bogey Boys
When Grammy-winning artist Macklemore launched Bogey Boys, he leaned heavily into the vintage charm of the 70s and 80s. The brand specializes in bold patterns, high-waisted trousers, and a specific type of country club nostalgia that feels fresh rather than dated. It’s playful, slightly irreverent, and perfectly suited for a generation that doesn't take the game's rigid traditions too seriously.
3. Greyson Clothiers
Greyson is where high-performance technical fabric meets sophisticated tailoring. Known for their signature wolf logo, the brand focuses on the "athlete" side of the golfer. Their joggers were some of the first to be accepted on professional tours, proving that you can look modern without sacrificing the etiquette of the game. It’s the go-to for the golfer who wants to look sharp but needs their clothes to move with a 120-mph swing.
4. G/FORE
G/FORE started with colorful gloves and evolved into a powerhouse of footwear and apparel. Their vibe is "disruptive luxury." Think tuxedo-inspired golf shoes and polos with edgy slogans. They take the classic elements of golf and turn the volume up to ten, making them a favorite for those who enjoy being the center of attention at the clubhouse.
5. Peter Millar
While some brands chase trends, Peter Millar perfects the classics. Their "Crown Sport" line is the gold standard for the modern executive golfer. The fit is refined, the fabrics are premium (think silk and cashmere blends), and the colors are timeless. It’s the kind of clothing that transitions seamlessly from a high-stakes board meeting to a late-afternoon round.
6. Eastside Golf
Few brands have done more to diversify the image of golf than Eastside Golf. Founded with the mission to make the game more inclusive and accessible, their designs often feature their iconic logo of a Black golfer in jeans and a sweatshirt. Their collaborations with Jordan Brand have become instant sell-outs, proving that the "culture" has a massive appetite for golf gear that breaks the mold.
7. TravisMathew
Based in Southern California, TravisMathew captures the laid-back, coastal lifestyle perfectly. Their apparel is famous for being incredibly soft and versatile. You’ll see their signature "Cloud" hoodies and performance polos on everyone from pro athletes to casual fans at the beach. It’s perhaps the most wearable brand on this list for everyday life.
8. Macade
Coming out of Sweden, Macade brings a minimalist, Scandinavian touch to the fairway. Their aesthetic is clean, slim-fitting, and highly functional. They’ve gained a massive following online by focusing on what modern golfers actually want: lightweight materials and silhouettes that look like high-end streetwear but perform like Olympic gear.
9. Manors Golf
Hailing from the UK, Manors Golf explores the classic British heritage of the sport but through a gritty, urban lens. They often release themed collections that tell a story, moving away from the mass-produced feel of traditional sports brands. Their focus on heavy cottons and relaxed fits makes them a staple for the "off-course" wardrobe.
10. Byrdie Golf Social Wear
The women’s side of golf fashion has historically been underserved, but Byrdie Golf Social Wear is changing that. They create pieces that are unapologetically feminine—think floral prints, elegant ruffles, and silhouettes inspired by classic 1960s resort wear. It’s a celebration of the social aspect of the game, designed for the woman who values the post-round glass of wine as much as the birdies.
11. Nike (Jordan Brand)
You can't discuss golf fashion without mentioning the swoosh. However, it’s the Jordan Brand subdivision that is currently dominating the footwear space. Seeing iconic silhouettes like the Air Jordan 1 and Air Jordan 4 equipped with golf cleats has changed the way people think about golf shoes. It’s no longer about looking like a golfer; it’s about looking like an athlete who happens to be playing golf.
Why This Trend Matters
The rise of these brands represents a broader shift in how we consume sports. Golf is no longer an isolated four-hour block on a Saturday; it is a lifestyle that encompasses travel, fitness, and social media. When you invest in a piece from Malbon or Greyson, you aren't just buying a shirt for the course; you're buying a piece that fits into your broader identity. As the lines continue to blur, expect to see even more high-fashion houses and streetwear legends eyeing the green as the next great frontier of style.
