Dress Code vs No Dress Code - That is the question...

Harry Boyd

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I've been playing golf now for well over 15 years, all along the south coast of England. Since starting, i've played at a number of different places with different sets of etiquette, rules & regulations.


One of the topics of hot debate at the moment is whether there should or shouldn't be a dress code? A number of clubs still enforce a full dress code of collared shirts, tailored shorts etc etc. However, a number of clubs are breaking this and opting to allow jeans, t-shirts etc.


My most recent club is Golf At Goodwood: http://www.goodwood.co.uk/golf-at-goodwood/golf-at-goodwood.aspx
Although this place takes pride on its heritage, with Justin Rose being an ambassador you're allowed to wear jeans, bring your dog on the course, and is fairly laid back...


Other courses along the coast are extremely strict, and won't even let you on the course unless your shoes have a certain shine...
What are people's thoughts on this? Should the dress code go, or should it stay?
 

Alex1975

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I have always been pro dress code but of late I do find myself thinking... I would like to pop for 9 holes but I just cant be bothered to get changed.
 
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Jeans on the course - never for me

I like the dress code , don't even like seeing people with tops hanging out

Whilst playing wear the correct golfing attire IMO
 

dufferman

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Worm can opened. Que hundreds of posts ranting about pros and cons. Arguments will ensue. People will get infractions. Users will be banned.

I like dressing up for golf. Part of the fun in my opinion! Can't wear white slacks any other time really can I?
 

shewy

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Half way house for me, I'd still have no jeans but don't see the harm in a smart t-shirt, I mean we've all seen people in tatty old polo shirts,shirts in our out for me don't really want to see a huge gut tucked in to trousers either.
Quite happy with sports socks liners as well.
 

SwingsitlikeHogan

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Depends what the members of the club want.

But for my club I'm in favour of relaxing it for members for some occasions and forms of golf - and dropping it altogether for Juniors
 

North Mimms

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Worm can opened. Que hundreds of posts ranting about pros and cons. Arguments will ensue. People will get infractions. Users will be banned.

I like dressing up for golf. Part of the fun in my opinion! Can't wear white slacks any other time really can I?

Don't you find them a pain to clean?
 

hovis

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I have nothing against jeans on the course but i dont know why one would wear them. I would imagine 6 miles in jeans to chaff a little
 

Hacker Khan

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I'm all for a very strict dress code. As I've been brought up on it, and if it's good enough for me then it should be good enough for the youngsters of today. And anyone who doesn't comply should be escorted from the establishment straight away. With no refund. ;)
 

Coatsy79

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Dress code for the course but relaxed for the clubhouse see no reason why you can't wear smart jeans etc in the bar

I think most would be happy with that, no need for jeans on the course when most people own a polo shirt and chinos or similar that you could get away with or dunlop trousers are about 4p from sports direct

Also cargo shorts should be allowed as long as they're tidy (luckily my course allows them)
 

DanFST

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Echo what others have said. Dress code on the course is fine, however the clubhouse should be more relaxed. IE: Jeans, tee shirts, flip flops
 
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c1973

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No problem with a dress code, that's what the club wants and I'm happy to abide by it; even having to tuck my top in (gawd I hate tucking tops in!)

I wear jeans all the time but I think if you're on the course then you make the effort and wear the 'uniform'.

My only gripe is not being able to drop in when passing for a bite to eat and a glass of wine with the 'boss' as both of us will probably be wearing jeans (bleedin expensive, 'smart' jeans mind). I'd be in the bar/dining area a lot more often if the no jeans rule was relaxed. It seems a shame that the club/caterer are missing out on the revenue but that's the rules and as said I'm happy to abide by them.

Some clubs rules may seem arcane but if you don't like them then don't go to that club/course, go elsewhere; there's plenty of options out there to keep everyone happy.
 

ArnoldArmChewer

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Pro dress code here, I don't like seeing denim anywhere on the course, shirts should have collars and be tucked in, hats come off in the clubhouse and phones should be left in the car.
 

fundy

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Cant think of anything worse than wearing Jeans on the course, especially if either hot or raining. Prefer to wear trousers/shorts (lightweight, insulated, splash proof etc to fit conditions). Personally would prefer a more relaxed code off the course (still think no sports tops, soiled or ripped clothers or trainers personally) but have no problem if a club requires smarter
 

sev112

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Contrary to popular belief on here, I am generally supportive of a dress code for golf course

I just strongly disagree with the details of the commonly adopted dress codes.
They are not logical at best, and potentially classist at worst.

There are some extremely sensible dress code items, but some absolutely nonsense ones too.
I will accept the masses' view on jeans, although polyester tends to chafe more than cotton.
Football shirts (club badges) probably sensible to say no thank to as well, for peaceful reasons
Dirty clothes of any ilk, fair enough, but it's a muddy game

Collars, tucked in shirts, sock length and colour - highly subjective fashion views by people most of whom have little fashion sense at all.
Deciding a double ply cotton weave should be banned because that's apparently what oiks wear also seems rather illogical.

Otherwise dress codes are fine
 
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