Beat the summer heat with these must-have accessories for the club golfer
What’s that big hot thing in the sky? Yep, it’s back again.
Sure, the sun is great, especially for a sport like golf. But as club golfers around the country flock to the golf course in search of the famous ‘golfer’s tan’, it’s important to remember to keep yourself protected with the right equipment whilst you’re out there.
But before we rush out to bask in the suns rays, let’s let some take to understand the dangers of the sun and why we should be doing everything we can to protect ourselves from the sheer power of its UV rays when playing golf.
Never underestimate the power of the sun
Did you know that more than 90% of skin cancers are caused by the sun?
It’s a scary fact, but frequent over-exposure doesn’t manifest itself in the form of skin cancer straight away. It can take up to 20 years or so to develop.
Rates of melanoma have more than quadrupled over the past 30 years and the risks only rise as we get older.
Even so, over a third of cases are occurring in people under the age of 55, and as are still looking to reclaim lost freedoms from the tight grip of coronavirus restrictions, the hazards are obvious.
Although it may seem comical at first, Stewart Cink’s take on the golfer’s tan is actually far from amusing!
The importance of using the right tools
Thankfully, there are a plethora of tools to help keep us protected from those powerful UV rays the sun emits.
Sure, sunscreen is paramount, but are you actually using it proplely?
It’s recommended that you apply at least one ounce of sunscreen around 15-30 minutes before going outside, and make sure you reapply it every two hours. But if you’re swimming or sweating, reapply it every hour instead.
Other pieces of sun protection include:
- Golf Shirts with (At Least) UPF 50
- Moisture-Wicking Golf Shorts
- UV-Rated Golfing Sunglasses
- Wide Brim Hats
Although it may be an obvious choice to get the shorts out on a sunny day, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and long pants is the ideal option as they cover your skin.
But if you’re set on wearing shorts, make sure they have moisture-wicking properties.
Where do I start?
That’s why we’ve put this guide together!
You’re probably less prepared to take on the sun than you think, so below we’ve split up what tools you should be using into different sets of clothing.
You’ll find a ‘Buy Now’ button below each product, so there’s no excuse not to be protected against the sun this summer when you’re out on the course.
Best sun protection clothing for golf
Best sunscreens for golf
Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Lotion
We all know that wearing sunscreen every day is vital to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and maintain a youthful, glowy look. But, not all sunscreens are created equal, many leaving a white cast or grease on your skin after application. Our Clear Zinc Sunscreen: Fragrance-Free Sunblock Lotion goes on clear and is formulated with natural ingredients that properly protect your skin.
Key Features:
- 80 minutes water and sweat resistant
- 100% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
- Rubs in Clear
- Fragrance Free for Sensitive Skin
Thinksport Sunscreen Stick
Enriched with Vitamin C & E along with a slight tint to reduce whitening from trace minerals, this ultra-moisturizing sunscreen can help to reduce skin aging by 24% when worn daily.
Quick drying and gentle enough for sensitive skin, this non-toxic formula provides a highly effective base for easy makeup application blending seamlessly into all skin tones.
Key Features:
- Designed for good health
- Safer Mineral Formulation
- Easy to apply
Alba Botanica Sunscreens Sensitive Mineral Lotion SPF30
Offering broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection against premature signs of aging, this effective sunscreen was designed with the daily needs of sensitive skin in mind.
Fast absorbing and lightweight, it contains natural ingredients to moisturize and soften the skin including Sunflower Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil and Aloe Vera. Enriched with Grape Seed Oil and Vitamin E, it also provides powerful antioxidant protection. Free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, nano-sunscreens and Vitamin A.
Key Features:
- Good for sensitive skin
- Water resistant (80 minutes)
- 100% vegetarian ingredients, No harsh sulfates, NO artificial colours, No parabens or phthalates, No synthetic Fragrances
Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+
The dermatologist recommended, lightweight, sweat-resistant sunscreen is enriched with safe, mineral based, science backed ingredients to protect skin from future sun damage while infusing skin with soothing moisture. This durable formula is highly effective for athletes and long hours in the sun.
Key Features:
- Dermatologist Recommended
- Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%
- Reef Friendly
- Biodegradable Formula
- Water Resistant (80 Minutes)
Best tops for sun protection for golf
FootJoy Leaping Dolphins Print Lisle Golf Polo Shirt
This new season Men’s Lisle Polo Shirt features a special edition all over leaping dolphin print pattern. Using the latest FJ ProDry Lightweight Stretch Lisle Fabric along with its athletic modern fit, this shirt is incredibly stylish that will make any golfer feel good and stand out on the course. This garment is from FJ’s limited release Jackson, Hudson, Duxbury and Deer Park Collection
Key Features:
- FootJoy ProDry Stretch Lisle fabric
- All over dolphin print
- Contemporary colour
- Rear yoke FootJoy logo
- Moisture wicking technology
Ping Sinclair Polo Shirt
Constructed with SensorCool performance material to keep you comfortable under the most demanding of conditions. It has a performance stretch for freedom of movement and offers moisture management for fewer distractions as you play golf. Plus is quick-drying and crease-resistant to keep you looking and feeling great. Along with a stylish engineered stripe design for the confidence to perform in all conditions.
Key Features:
- Freedom of Movement
- Moisture Movement
- Quick Dry / Crease Resistant
Callaway Soft Touch M Golf Shirt
Callaway has designed the Soft Touch M golf polo that allows for greater body movement for smoother golf swings while also working to keep you cool and dry as you play on the golf course.
By using Opti-Dri Technology Callaway has been able to create a shirt that keeps you cool and dry during a full round of golf. This is achieved by engineering the golf shirt using moisture-wicking technology that works to draw sweat and excess moisture away from the skin so that it is able to evaporate faster, keeping golfers dry and cool while they play.
Key Features:
- Moisture Movement Properties
- Self Collar
- Opti-Dri Cooling Technology
- More Stretch With Swing Tech
- 3 Button Neck Opening
Under Armour Playoff 2.0 Heather Polo Shirt
The Under Armour Playoff 2.0 Polo Shirt is the perfect garment for the golfer that likes supremely comfortable, technically advanced clothing. It has been constructed from a four-way stretch fabric which affords the golfer complete freedom of movement whilst a moisture management system helps to wick droplets away from the skin. Featuring an appealing striped pattern over a block base colour the Playoff 2.0 Polo Shirt will continue to be one of the most popular choices in our comprehensive range of Under Armour Clothing.
Key Features:
- Soft anti-pick, anti-pill fabric is extremely breathable & lightweight
- Quick-dry for all-day comfort
- 4-way stretch construction moves better in every direction
- Material wicks sweat & dries really fast
- UPF 30 protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays
- Self-fabric collar
- Heat seal logos
Adidas Flag Print Golf Polo Shirt
The Flag Print PrimeBlue Polo is brand new this season from adidas. This short sleeve polo shirt features a three button placket, traditional collar and allover print. The polo is made with stretch fabric to keep you comfortable on and off the course. The signature logo is on the left sleeve.
Key Features:
- Stretch Performance
- Durable & Breathable Fabric
- All-Over Graphic Print
Best shorts and trousers for sun protection for golf
FootJoy Performance Regular Fit Shorts
These high-performance golf shorts offer comfort and mobility as you play the beautiful sport of golf. The shorts have a regular fit and have a woven stretch twill fabric construction to give you the freedom to move during your game of golf. The waistband features a stretch silicone gripper tape for comfort and to prevent your shirt from untucking. The design features 2 side entry pockets and welted pockets at the rear.
Key Features:
- Woven Stretch Twill Fabric
- Stretch Silicone Gripper Tape
- Side Entry Pockets & Single Rear Welt Pocket
Ping Bradley Shorts
Play golf in less distraction and comfort, with this specifically engineered golf shorts. Constructed with lightweight materials, and stretch, to give increased mobility during the golf swing. The shorts are fast drying, and have a moisture moving properties to keep you less distracted during your golf game. The design features 2 back pockets, and a button down security pocket, plus feature a Tekfit ® stretch waistband with inner gripper tape for added convenience.
Key Features:
- Moisture Moving Properties
- Lightweight & Mechanical Stretch
- Tekfit ® Stretch Waistband with Gripper Tape
Callaway Chev Tech II Shorts
The Callaway Chev Tech II Shorts are composed from a combination of Polyester and Elastane providing great comfort and stretch. Flex fabric with added active waistband ensures maximum range of motion and unrestricted movement. These lightweight shorts are finished with a Callaway tour logo above right back pocket.
Key Features:
- Callaway Tour logo above right back pocket
- Active expandable contrast coloured waistband with belt loops
- Lightweight
- Flex Fabric
Galvin Green Percy Shorts
The exceptional Galvin Green Parker Shorts are made from top quality materials that benefit from VENTIL8 technology and moisture transportation properties.
Key Features:
- VENTIL8™ Technology
- Moisture Transportation
- Protection Factor (UPF) 20+
Under Armour Tech Shorts
Perform to the highest of standards and look good in the process, with these smooth and stretchy woven golf shorts from Under Armour golf. The flat front shorts have a 10″ inseam and have a 4-way stretch to ensure mobility in all directions, plus are moisture-wicking to keep you dry and less distracted during your game of golf. Other features include 4 pockets, belt loops, and are fast drying for added convenience.
Key Features:
- 4-Way Stretch Construction
- Moisture Management
- Flat Front Design
Nike Dri-Fit Hybrid Wash Print Golf Shorts
Key Features:
- Regular fit
- Nike Dri-FIT Technology
- Stretch fabric
- Snap-button closure and zipped fly
- Repeating “Nike Golf” graphic on the inner waistband has a slightly tacky texture that helps keep your top tucked in
FootJoy Men’s Performance Tapered Fit Trousers
These high-performance golf trousers offer comfort and mobility as you play the beautiful sport of golf. The trousers have a modern tapered fit and have a woven stretch twill fabric construction to give you the freedom to move during your game of golf. The waistband features a stretch silicone gripper tape for comfort and to prevent your shirt from untucking. The design features 2 side entry pockets and welted pockets at the rear, plus subtle FJ branding.
Key Features:
- Woven Stretch Twill Fabric
- Stretch Silicone Gripper Tape
- Side Entry Pockets & Single Rear Welt Pocket
Ping Men’s Bradley Slim Trousers
Play golf in less distraction and comfort, with this specifically engineered golf trousers. Constructed with lightweight materials, and stretch, to give increased mobility during the golf swing. The trousers are fast drying and have a moisture moving properties to keep you less distracted during your golf game. The design features 2 back pockets, and a button down security pocket, plus feature a Tekfit ® stretch waistband with inner gripper tape for added convenience.
Key Features:
- Moisture Moving Properties
- Lightweight & Mechanical Stretch
- Tekfit ® Stretch Waistband with Gripper Tape
J Lindeberg Rick Golf Trousers
Key Features:
- Slim fit
- Moisture wicking
- 3D JL Bride logo on back right pocket
- Modern cuffed ankles
Adidas Golf Men’s Ultimate365 PRIMEGREEN Tapered Trousers
Maximise your golfing performance with these 4-way stretch trousers from adidas golf. Constructed with moisture-wicking fabric to keep you less distracted, with a UPF50+ protection rating to keep you safe out on the golf course. The design features a tapered leg fitting, belt loops, and fly, and a regular fit for everyday comfort. Made from PRIMEGREEN recycled materials to make a positive impact on the environment.
Key Features:
- 4-Way Stretch
- Breathable Balanced Weight Fabric
- UV 50+ Protection
Best sun protection hats for golf
Callaway Golf Sun Hat
UPF Protection 50+ UV Coating delivers the highest degree of sun protection of any Callaway Golf hat, making this sun hat ideal for when the temperature soars on the golf course. Protect your head, stay cool and keep your round going for as long as you want to! You may find yourself wearing this everywhere.
Key Features:
- Golf sun hat
- UPF Protection 50+ UV Coating
- Wide brim
- Ventilation holes
Titleist Tour Aussie Hat
The hugely popular Titleist Tour Aussie Hat returns for the 2021 season and now features a stretch material with an adjustable closure for improved comfort and fit. It benefits from UV treated materials and provides sun protection of 50+ UPF to help protect you from the sun’s harmful rays. There is no need to worry about selecting the right size as this is one size fits all design. There is also a handy removable chin strap that ensures the hat remains securely on your head on windy days.
Key Features:
- Stretch material with adjustable closure for comfort and fit
- Removable chin strap with inside pocket for storage
- UV treated for sun protection of 50+ UPF
- One size fits all
TaylorMade Storm Waterproof Golf Bucket Hat
If you are a keen golfer and you live in Northern Europe and especially the UK, then the chances are you get soaking wet whilst playing on a far too regular basis. Golf is a hard-enough game to play well at without the added difficulties that inclement weather brings but, hardy souls that we are, we embrace the challenge and continue to play when the heavens open.
Key Features:
- High density printed logo for extra durability
- Fully seam sealed crown for the ultimate waterproof experience
- 2.5” inch brim with a relaxed stretch fit
Galvin Green Aqua Oversize Waterproof Hat
The ever-popular Aqua is back yet again for another season. The waterproof golf hat features a wide brim for maximum protection and a storm strap for a great fit.
Key Features:
- Gore-Tex waterproof bucket style golf hat. Lifetime waterproof guarantee
- Highly breathable Gore-Tex fabric with mesh lining
- Wide front brim and extra wide rear brim prevent water affecting the golfer
- Adjustable storm strap attached
Sunderland Ultralight Wide Brim Golf Hat
Golf bucket hats are ideal for protecting your eyes, face and neck from the sun’s powerful UV rays when you’re out on the course.
Key Features:
- Classic waterproof bucket hat design
- Wide brim design prevents water from entering the neck/collar area
- Guaranteed to keep golfers dry
- Lightweight outer fabric
- Elasticated headband ensures comfort
- Exceptional water repellency
Best sunglasses for golf
Nike Maverick Sunglasses
A rebel on the outside, the Nike Maverick sunglasses are pure performance on the inside. This scaled-down version has a smaller fit with the same lightweight frame, innovative temple cushioning and ventilation that means you can wear these sunglasses for hours on the course, and off. Arguably the best pairs of golf sporting sunglasses you can buy.
Key Features:
- Max optics provide precise vision from all angles
- Soft, flexible rubber temple tips enhance comfort and grip
- Ventilated rubber nose bridge reduces fogging
- Lightweight, durable nylon frame
- Tapered temple arms fit easily under a hat
Bloc Titan Sunglasses Box Set
With 4 lens easy which are easy to change, the BLOC Titan Sunglasses Box Set are the ideal sunglasses for the all weather golfer. They are comfortable to wear thanks to the light weight materials and bi-moulded frame incorporating soft grippy rubber temples. The 4 lens clip in system makes it simple to change so what ever the conditions you will have the correct lens. The rimless design makes its stylish and sporty and particulary good for golf.
Key Features:
- Bi-moulded frame incorporating soft grippy rubber temples
- 4 lens clip system for different activities and conditions
- Rimless design
- Lightweight, comfortable with adjustable nose piece
Henrik Stenson Eyewear Stinger 3.0 Sunglasses
The Stinger 3.0 sunglasses are suitable for sporting activities. Designed with TR-90 an ultra-light and flexible polymer sports frame, three-point soft touch rubber grip. Plus equipped with anti-scratch HD-lens for an optimal visual experience.
Key Features:
- TR-90 Ultra-Light Frame
- HD-Lens with Oleophobic Coating
- Three-Point Grip with Soft-Touch Rubber Formula
- Hardcase & Microfiber Bag
Oakley Five Squared Sunglasses
If the world wasn’t made to fit you, you’re in good company. The legends of action sports go through life reveling in originality and crushing conventional ideas beyond recognition. If ordinary sunglasses just don’t fit, this pair of golf sunglasses is the answer. Unlike conventional sunglasses that stick out at the sides, this frame uses Condensed Cranial Geometry for a tapered architecture that feels as good as it looks and it’s a look that soaks sophistication in adrenalin. Dimensional reliefs, metal icons and sculpturally integrated hinges take the whole idea of street-smooth style and amp it with attitude.
Key Features:
- Plutonite Lenses maximize clarity while filtering out 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400nm
- High Definition Optics (HDO) is a collection of patented technologies that allow Oakley eyewear to offer the best performance and clarity
- Oakley performance eyewear offers uncompromising protection against high-velocity and high-mass impact
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Sunglasses
The XL edition offers a standard size frame with enhanced lens coverage, and every millimetre of the peripheral view is optimized with High Definition Optics™ in a durable yet lightweight design that takes performance to the next level and brings style along for the ride. Oakley’s exclusive Prizm lens technology has been designed to enhance colour and contrast, so you can see more detail. Oakley lenses have also been designed and tested under extreme high mass and high velocity circumstances to ensure uncompromising protection across a wide range of demanding conditions
Key Features:
- Lightweight O Matter™ frame material with ellipse metal icon accents
- Unobtainium™ earsocks and nosepads for increased comfort and performance
- 8.75 base lens geometry with HDO™
- Available with Prizm™ lenses to enhance color, contrast and detail for an optimized experience
- Polarized and Iridium™ lens options available
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Ben Outhwaite
Ben is National Club Golfer's Marketing Editor and the latest addition to our golf equipment review team.
He specialises in testing golf bags, beginner golf club sets, apparel and golf accessories. He also collates our buying guides so you know which are the latest and greatest bits of golf equipment on the market.
Ben picked up his first golf club when he was five years old – which was in fact a left-handed set of clubs!
He is a member at Rudding Park Golf Club and has a handicap of fifteen.
