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Take a look at the NCG best in class golf shorts for men 2026 – from budget to premium, slim to stocky fit, classic to subtle design.
Choosing the right golf shorts can make a significant difference on hot, humid days on the course. In this Best golf shorts for men 2026 guide, we’ve carefully identified the best in class, covering a range of needs from the best value options to premium picks.
We’ve also highlighted shorts with the best stretch, styles suited for stocky builds, and those offering lightweight comfort for staying cool.
Our goal is to provide honest, practical insights that help you find the perfect pair for your game, no matter the conditions. Whether you’re after performance, comfort, or value, these selections are designed to help you identify the best shorts for you.
The Drawcord Good Walk Shorts are absolutely superb, they really are. They are probably the most comfortable shorts I have ever worn, and I don’t even need to wear a belt with them, which is a huge bonus. A belt can somewhat suffocate you, despite their necessity, but the stretch waist removes this issue. The style of these shorts is so comfortable too. It is like you are on the beach, with the elasticated drawcord waist and the relaxed shape cut around the knee.
As for the colour, this also ticks a box. It is a smart beige/white hue that looks great and wearing these shorts has fully got me in the summer golf mood. These are also multi-purpose shorts, too. You could easily wear these out and about in social settings and you wouldn’t feel out of place, or as though you’re blatantly wearing golf clothes.
PROS:
Very comfortable
Adaptable waist
Nice colour
In the sale!
CONS:
None – I love them
RRP: £105 – but available for £25 if you get lucky with the size
Shorts are very popular on the golf course these days. Who doesn’t feel better playing in shorts and a polo-shirt?
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Glenmuir have hit the nail on the head with the g.Jackson range. They fit brilliantly and provide the right balance of style and comfort. I loved the Linen coloured shorts but you can choose from black, navy, light blue and even tartan!
The waistband sits comfortably and secure and the stretch in the shorts means that they move as you do.
The moisture wicking material ensures that you stay cool throughout your round.
For those that crave individuality, you can even personalise the shorts via the Glenmuir website. Get these in your wardrobe for the hot days ahead
The Reebok Men’s 8 Inch Golf Shorts are a really solid option if you’re after something simple, comfortable, and easy to wear throughout the season. They’ve got that classic golf short look, but with a lightweight feel that makes them ideal for warmer days on the course. The fabric is soft and breathable, so you don’t feel restricted at all, even during a full round.
I found the fit to be nice and straightforward—not too tight or overly loose—just a clean, comfortable shape that works for most situations. The 8-inch length is a good middle ground as well, giving a modern look without going too short. They’re the kind of shorts you can just put on and not really think about, which is exactly what you want when you’re playing.
What really stands out though is how affordable they are. It’s not always easy to find golf shorts at this price point that still feel this comfortable and wearable, making them great value for money.
The fabric used in the construction of these shorts is a very breathable and lightweight polyester. It is also stretchy and quick drying.
The fit is described as clean, classic and tailored. I agree. It comes in no less than nine different colour options. I tested the version in Nauti (navy) with a 32” waist which ran true to size, just. If you are between sizes, I suggest you go up rather than down. The general trend with shorts seems to be to offer a choice of inseams- typically 7” and 9”. The Zac was only offered in 8.5” but the length suited my modest 173 cm height just fine.
There is a gripper waistband (rare in shorts for some reason), four roomy pockets and a complete absence of logoing, so, as I am discovering with B.Draddy stuff, it makes for versatile use. On the course, the Zac performed perfectly well, thanks to their lightweight and stretchy design. But I do think the price may be rather prohibitive for what is a pair of shorts with no particularly outstanding features.
PROS
Great choice of colours
Comfortable.
Lightweight and stretchy fabric
CONS
Premium price
RRP: £95 / $130
Sizes: 30-44
Colours: Melba Heather, Mac Heather, Nauti, Oyster, Regal, Grey Heather, Bank Heather, Rich Heather and Clearwater Heather
If you have read any of my trouser/shorts reviews before you will know that I tend to struggle to find shorts or trousers. This is down to my stocky build and, well, there is no other way of putting it – solid derriere! Golf apparel sizing and fit can sometimes be a struggle!
My favourite shorts from this year are the Peter Millar surge performance as they have a fantastic stretch but are not too tight. I have to say these shorts are on a par and half the price. The only difference when it comes to fit is that they are a tad tighter. This is fine due to the stretch in the fabric and waistband.
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Available in 4 colours I might be tempted to invest in a few more pairs as they provide great comfort whilst playing – enabling you to freely play without being concerned they might rip!
The TravisMathew brand was born in California in 2007 with the aim of creating golf gear for those seeking ultimate comfort with relaxed styling and a modern fit. It was bought by Callaway in 2017 and has been worn by the likes of Jon Rahm, when he won The Masters and US Open, as well as other Callaway staffers including Sam Burns and Akshay Bhatia. It’s also found favour with the likes of actors including Chris Pratt and Adam Sandler.
The fabric used in the construction of these shorts is a polyester/elastane blend which TM call micro-ripstop. This fabric, which is also seen in some of their midlayers, is stretchy, durable and very lightweight. It is also moisture-wicking and resistant to wrinkling. If you look closely, there is a grid pattern which I suppose adds some visual interest.
The fit is described as athletic yet relaxed. It looks relaxed to me. The construction and stitching is of premium quality. It comes in no less than seven different colour options and is available in both 7” and 9” inseam so you are sure to find a shade to suit and a size to fit. I tested the version in Quiet Shade, which was a slightly uninspiring grey colour. The 7” inseam was just right for my 173cm height.
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There is a soft and elasticated waistband, four roomy pockets and minimal logoing, so, as with all TM stuff, it doesn’t shout ‘golf gear’ at you.
I’m generally a huge fan of the TM look and quality. And these shorts are another bit of kit that I will enjoy wearing both on and off the course.
Let me first confess I am a big TravisMathew fan. I love the quality and versatility of the brand whereby you can easily wear the items on and off the course.
When it comes to shorts I have struggled to find a pair that are either too baggy or way too tight! Admittedly this is more down to my short (I am 5ft 10) and stocky build.
I would say these TravisMathew Beck shorts fit more into the baggy category. They are also on the longer side, 9.5 inch inseam, which for some might be a bit long. I am normally a 40 waist and I think I might have been okay in a 38 – just something to bare in mind as you might be okay sizing down.
I absolutely loved the feel of the shorts – the stretch and comfort were spot on. I had no issues whilst swinging the club or walking between shots.
The big plus for these shorts, for me anyway, were when bending down to put the tee in the ground or to line up putting. Whereas a chino type short can sometimes feel a bit tight when bending, these shorts do not have any such issues. The lightweight stretch fabric provides ease of movement in any direction.
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The Beck shorts have 2 deep back pockets and 2 deep front pockets that are ideal for what ever you need to carry.
The only thing missing on these shorts are a silicon gripper inside the waistband to keep your polo shirt in place whilst swinging.
All in all these are a quality item that is true to the TravisMathew brand of producing items you can easily wear on and off the golf course. I can see them getting a lot of use over the Summer whether teeing it up, umpiring at kids cricket, or having a few drinks in a beer garden! A great all round short for all occasions.
PROS
Lightweight
Stretchy
Versatile
CONS
No silicon gripper inside the waistband
RRP – £69.99 / $84.95
SIZES: Waist 30-42
COLOUR: Blue Nights / Black / Light Grey / Blue / Vintage Indigo
I wouldn’t usually wear white shorts on the golf course. I wouldn’t usually wear anything white on the golf course, as it can show sweat and can get dirty. But with the Puma 101 Pure 8-inch shorts, I would be more than happy to channel my inner Rafa Nadal on the golf course.
These shorts are very stylish and smart in a clean white, not to mention they are soft, light and breathable. This was important, as I feel traditional golf shorts have the potential to suffocate you, but not these golf shorts. These provide just the right amount of relief and stretch feel to make you feel comfortable and cosy on the fairways.
The tailored fit and silicone grip waistband holds you steady through every shot, and although many of these words to do with the material might not mean much to you, it all contributes to a super experience playing golf in these shorts.
PROS
Very smart and clean look
Comfortable and light
Good value at the price
CONS
None
RRP: £45.00
Sizes: 30-38
Colours: White, dark indigo, rose blossom, team light blue, espresso bean, melon glow, platino grey and black
With the good weather now upon us it is time to break out the shorts. My threshold for wearing shorts is pretty low, so I was interested to review the FootJoy Performance Tapered Fit Shorts.
This is a classic looking pair shorts. The taper is not excessive, and they look smart on. They are made from a woven stretch twill which is lightweight and breathable. The stretch makes them comfortable and non-restricting when swinging a club. A small FootJoy logo is on one of the two back pockets. Other than that, they are a solid colour throughout. If you want a classic and comfortable pair of shorts for golf, then this is one to consider.
As someone who dislikes any restriction in golf attire my threshold for wearing shorts is pretty low.
The Ping Barret Men’s performance shorts will likely be a regular feature for me as soon as there is any appropriate weather.
They have a classic formal style to them. They are crease resistant, qick-drying and have moisture movement technology according to the Ping website.
Much like the Ping Sherwell trousers that I tried, for me the best feature is their fantastic stretch and consequent extreme comfort.
They have 2 front and 2 rear pockets as well as gripper tape on the inside of the band. Even in shorts, I find stretch to help remove restriction and these shorts absolutely hit the mark.
PROS:
Light
Comfortable
Fantastic stretch
CONS
Colour options may not appeal to everyone
RRP: £70
Sizes: 30-44
Colour: Cornflower Blue Marl / Misty Green Marl / Purple Ash Marl / Dunbarry Marl
In the best possible way these are your run of the mill golf shorts but done brilliantly. They offer a sleek design that looks smart and will work well with any golf outfit of your choosing. The pockets are big enough to store all your golfing essentials and more. I did find them to be a slightly slimmer fitting than other options on the market, but that suited my styling, and I didn’t mind that at all. There were still very breathable and comfortable enough when crouching down on the greens. The quality is also very much that of a premium piece of golf clothing all for a reasonable price.
Original Penguin Victory Crest 9 inch Shorts | Source: NCG
I love the Original Penguin brand, but this is the first I have tried their golf range. At first glance the shorts look like a smart but fairly standard pair of golf shorts. A second look and you will see the multiple crests embroidered on the shorts. This on its own makes them desirable.
The performance is as one would expect from a quality modern golf short. The material is 74% polyester, 20% recycled polyester and 6% elastane. As a result, they are moisture-wicking and stretchy. They feel good quality with some substance to them but are still lightweight.
Wearing shorts out on the golf course isn’t always for everyone, but I know I will break them out at the first opportunity. Playing golf in the summer can be a little uncomfortable at times with the heat. These Stromberg shorts will help overcome that. They are constructed to have one of the highest moisture wicking levels on the market, helping to you cool on the golf course this summer. The Stromberg Sintra golf shorts may have jumped to the top of the pile when it comes to my summer wardrobe this season. Most importantly they are extremely comfortable, they weren’t too tight and actually fit to size.
PROS:
Quality material
Available in a range of colours
Comfortable
CONS:
None
RRP: £39.99
Sizes: 30-46
Colours: Black, grey, red, light grey, navy blue, white and nautical blue
I’ve worn these Peter Millar shorts on the course a few times and they’re up to the usual high standard you expect from the brand.
They’re incredibly comfortable, breathable, and stretchy, making them perfect for the more stocky golfer like myself. The fit is great and they move with you, not against you.
I noticed the two small zip pockets – one on the front and a horizontal one on the back – offering extra security, though I found the back one was plenty for my needs.
The quality feels premium, and I believe they’ll last much longer than cheaper options. The fabric is lightweight, doesn’t wrinkle, and keeps its shape well.
The £115 price tag might seem steep, but in my experience, Peter Millar’s durability and style make it worth it. These are versatile enough for golf or casual wear and are genuinely great shorts.
PROS
Breathable
Stretchy
Zip pockets for extra security
CONS
Premium price
RRP: £115 / $138
Sizes: 30-40
Colours: Almond, British grey, khaki, navy and truffle
Like trousers I often struggle with finding shorts that are a good fit. I am 5 ft 10 and on the stocky side and tend to find shorts are either way too tight or much too big!
These Peter Millar shorts, with their stretch and tailored fit, were a revelation for me! The fit was near perfect and the comfort top notch.
The all-important test for me when it comes to shorts is the how they feel when bending down to look at putts and pick the ball up out the hole. You will be glad to know that these shorts passed with flying colours, with no issues at all.
Yes, the price is very punchy when it comes to a pair of shorts but for me these will be my go-to pair and for someone who struggles to find shorts, they are worth the investment.
PROS:
Great fit for the stockier person
Comfortable
Plenty of colours to choose from
CONS:
Premium price
RATING (out of 5):5
RRP: £100 / $115
Sizes: 30-42
Colours: Gale Grey / Navy / Oatmeal / Blue Spruce / Fountain Blue / Pink Crepe / British Grey
Castore has never really been on my radar as a golf brand. The first I heard of them was when they were sponsoring the 2022 US Open winner Matt Fitzpatrick for a season or so. I associate them more with cricket and football than golf.
As a sports brand, I was interested to see how their quality would stack up against heavyweights like Under Armour and Adidas. I could find no reason as to why these shorts aren’t as good as the ones from those two, amongst others.
They felt comfortable. At no point did they rub on my inner thigh, which can often be a problem with some golf shorts, especially during the warmer months. I’m a size 32 waist and felt as though they did fit to size for the most part but are noticeable a little baggier than some other options out there. Their water-resistant capabilities make these an appealing option.
As someone who struggles to find shorts (and trousers) I really liked these due to lightweight and stretchy fit. They are not quite lycra but have that lightweight stretchy feel with aids comfort and fit.
They are not a chino type of short – which for me is a good thing when it comes to playing golf.
The breathable aspect to these shorts were definitely evident when playing golf.
One of the standout features is the zip pocket on the back – I have never worn shorts or trousers with this feature, but I think is a nice touch as prevents things from falling out! There are also the two standard side pockets.
Though not waterproof they are water repellent, which for those in the UK, can be useful in case you are caught in a summer shower.
I loved the light blue pastel colour I had to test but on the Castore website, currently, it is only available in navy. black and clay.
These shorts will get a lot of wear over the summer – both on and off the golf course and thoroughly recommend for those looking for a stretchy / lightweight pair of shorts.
We hope this guide makes it easier to find the ideal golf shorts that suit your style and needs. With the right pair, you’ll stay comfortable, no matter how hot the day gets. From those that surprised us to shorts with subtle design we have options that cover most golfers needs. Whether you want to spend £40 or £120 there are options covering all budgets and requirements.
The next time you wear some shorts on the golf course don’t forget to add a cap and sunscreen to protect yourself against the elements.
Paul has been playing golf for around a fourth of a Century, whilst his time on this Earth is rapidly approaching half a Century!
During that time his handicap, on average, has gone down around half a shot a year and is currently at 8.
His general love of Sport included a time studying the Philosophy and Sociology of Sport.
In 2013 he co-authored a book chapter 'The good and bad of youth sport today'.
His passion for youth sport is equally matched in his role heading up the Buyer's Guides for National Club Golfer.
He wants to inform golfers what gear is the best whilst finding all the best golf deals so you can save money.
Since joining the equipment testing team at NCG he has become a hybrid convert and is ready to tell you to ditch the long irons if you want to hit more greens this season!
Paul uses Titleist GT3 driver, Callaway Ai Smoke hybrids, a SeeMore Giant Putter and a TaylorMade Tour Response golf ball.
