A couple decades ago, the best golf pants used to be one thing: giant-fit, triple-pleated behemoths designed to pull double duty at the office. But as golf’s fashion bona fides progressed in leaps and bounds, the pants associated with the sport have evolved along with it. This means that today, there’s a silhouette for whatever course you’re playing and whatever tee-to-green style you favor. Fancy yourself a health juice-swilling, single-digit handicapper looking to milk every last drop of performance out of your gear? Links-ready jogger pants provide elite-level comfort and allow you to show off your rarest golf kicks (which, yes, are also a thing). Looking to cosplay as a ‘70s tour pro while you post your longest drives to IG? There are plenty of options out there that provide the old-school aesthetics you want without compromising on the comfort and breathability you need.
Companies like Nike, Adidas, and Ralph Lauren still sell some of the sickest middle-of-the-fairway silhouettes, but men’s golf attire doesn’t stop there with the big boys. A crop of new-school golf brands is taking the big swings necessary to help you stand out in the clubhouse, on the course, and in that sandy bunker way off the green. If you’re a diehard fan of the sport, you’re probably used to waiting. But we’re not. So we rounded up a hard-driving roster of the very best golf pants on the market right now to help you tee up like a pro.
For more intel on how to look fly at tee time, check out the GQ Golf Shop.
The Best Golf Pants, According to GQ
In This Guide
Best Overall Golf Pants: Lululemon ABC Classic Fit Trousers
Lululemon’s ABC pants are our favorite bottoms for a handful of reasons. First, their proprietary Warpstreme fabric is one of the most comfortable in the biz, golf-related or not. The four-way stretch is responsive, allowing for a full range of movement without getting stretched out and shapeless after a few wears. They come in five different lengths and eleven waist sizes, meaning every guy can dial in the perfect fit, and they look great dressed up at the country club or dressed down at the local muni.
Best Budget Golf Pants: Nike Tour 5-Pocket
Nike
Tour 5-Pocket Golf Pants
Pros
- Huge size range
- Five-pocket design is versatile
Cons
- Stitching looks a bit awkward
The Nike Tour 5-Pocket is a classic. Its five-pocket design is casual and convenient—nothing is worse than trying to wedge your hand into an oddly angled pocket to yank out a tee or ball marker. The smooth, stretchy fabric is comfortable year-round and the slim fit is flattering without veering toward the too-tight side of the spectrum. Don’t be surprised if you start wanting to wear these off the course, too.
Best Golf Pants for Bigger Guys: Adidas Ultimate365 Golf Pants
Adidas
Ultimate365 Golf Pants
Pros
- Comes in sizes all the way up to 52
- Made from recycled materials
Cons
If the five-pocket-pants vibe isn’t for you, then we recommend picking up the Adidas Ultimate365 Golf Pants, which feature more classic tailoring and traditional pocketing for a sleek, put-together look. Don’t get it twisted, though, these are full of performance features that meet the needs of PGA pros and weekend warriors, alike. They’re infused with elastane for multi-directional stretch and enhanced mobility and a water-resistant finish keeps you dry when the clouds open up on you. Plus, they’re available in up to size 52, which makes them great for bigger guys, as well.
Best Cropped Golf Pants: Radmor James Pleated Crop Pant
Pros
- Soft cotton that gets better with age
- Sustainably made
Cons
- Cropped leg isn’t for everyone
Radmor was founded by a legend of the denim industry, so it’s no surprise that their pants make our list. The James Pleated Pant is made from a sustainable, soft, comfortable blend of cotton, lyocell and elastane, which lets you move freely throughout the course, while still looking stylish off the course. As an added bonus, the pants have a UPF rating of 50+ to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays. The pants’ cropped fit makes them great for rounds in the heat of summer and the double pleats will fit in at that dinner res you’re rushing to after your round goes long.
Best Lightweight Golf Pants: Johnnie-O Momentum Stretch Knit
Johnnie-O
Momentum Stretch Knit
Pros
- Super comfortable in hot weather
- Magnetic pocket closures
Cons
- Might be too thin for some
Another brand that makes high-performing golf apparel with traditional styling, Johnnie-O is bringing coastal style to the golf masses, developing apparel that looks at home on Nantucket, Manhattan Beach, the country club and even on the first tee of your favorite goat track. They’re extremely lightweight, so if you prefer pants, even in the heat of summer, these will be your new favorite for steamy, humid rounds in the southeast or desert golf out west.
More Golf Pants We Love
What to Look For in Golf Pants
Materials: When it comes to golf pants, the fabric can make a big difference in how comfy they are, how flexible you feel, and, ultimately, how well you play. Cotton is a classic choice that’s breathable, soft, and easy-wearing. It feels nice against the skin and is perfect for mild weather. Polyester and synthetic blends have become popular in golf because they wick away sweat and move with you, keeping you dry on the course. These materials are also lightweight, durable, and wrinkle-resistant, making them a practical option for a full day of golf or a long round in the summer. Spandex is often mixed with other materials to add stretch and flexibility, so you can swing your club without feeling restricted.
And if you’re planning on spending some serious time in the sun, look for golf pants with UV protection. This can be a lifesaver during those extra-long rounds (yes, you can be sunburned through pants).