Best Shorts For Golf – 2026 Reviews
Let’s be honest-bad golf shorts can ruin a good round. We’re talking about the stiff pair that restricts your backswing, the heavy fabric that turns into a sweat sponge by the 5th hole, or the ones that look… well, not quite right for the clubhouse patio. Finding the right balance of performance, comfort, and style is trickier than it seems.
That’s exactly why I spent my last few rounds testing a mountain of different shorts. I wanted to feel the difference between a basic cotton blend and high-tech four-way stretch. I needed to know which waistbands truly move with you and which ones just claim to. And I was determined to find the sweet spot where on-course performance meets off-course looks.
The good news? There are some fantastic options out there right now. From trusted athletic brands to surprisingly capable newcomers, I’ve found shorts that will genuinely make your time on the course more comfortable and confident. Let’s get into the details.
Best Shorts for Golf – 2026 Reviews

Under Armour Men's Tech Golf Shorts – Unmatched All-Around Performance
These shorts set the benchmark. The four-way stretch fabric feels like it was engineered specifically for a golf swing, offering freedom without ever feeling baggy. The moisture-wicking is so effective you’ll forget what it’s like to feel damp on a humid day. They’re the perfect hybrid of athletic performance and polished, course-appropriate style.

Amazon Essentials Men's Stretch Golf Short – Incredible Budget Value
Don’t let the price fool you. These shorts deliver a shockingly competent golf experience. The performance fabric wicks moisture effectively, and the gentle stretch is perfect for a comfortable swing. The shirt-gripping waistband is a genius little feature that keeps your polo looking tidy all day long.

G Gradual Men's 7" Casual Shorts – Best Shorter Inseam Option
For golfers who prefer a shorter, more modern silhouette above the knee, this is a standout choice. The 7-inch inseam provides fantastic freedom and ventilation, while the lightweight, quick-dry fabric is ideal for hot-weather rounds. The zippered side pocket is a secure spot for your phone or keys.

PGA TOUR Men's Expandable Waistband Shorts – Ultimate Comfort Fit
A legendary model for a reason. The hidden expandable waistband is the star here, offering up to 4 inches of flexibility that accommodates everything from a big breakfast to your natural swing motion. They’re a comfortable, reliable workhorse with built-in sun protection.

Adidas Golf Adi Advantage Shorts – Eco-Conscious Classic
These shorts bring a fantastic sustainable story to the fairway, being made from 100% recycled materials. They offer a clean, classic Adidas style with a regular fit that strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and tailored. The fabric is soft, breathable, and built to last.

33,000ft Men's Dry Fit Golf Shorts – Feature-Packed Performer
These are the Swiss Army knife of golf shorts. With five pockets (including a hidden tee slot), UPF 50 sun protection, water-repellent treatment, and four-way stretch, they’re designed for the golfer who wants every possible feature. The 11-inch inseam provides great coverage.

Pudolla Men's Lightweight 11" Dress Shorts – Long Inseam Specialist
Designed for taller golfers or those who prefer more leg coverage, the 11-inch inseam here is a key benefit. They blend a dress short aesthetic with golf-ready performance features like stretch and quick-drying fabric, making them incredibly versatile.

G Gradual 7"/9" 4-Pocket Shorts – Versatile Length Choice
Offering a choice between a 7-inch or 9-inch inseam, this model provides flexibility to match your preference. The four-pocket layout includes a dedicated thigh phone pocket, and the fabric is designed for all-day comfort during summer activities.

Adidas Men's Golf Short – Streamlined & Lightweight
This is a minimalist, ultra-lightweight option from Adidas. The fabric is thin with four-way stretch, focusing purely on unencumbered movement and basic moisture management. It’s a no-frills short for the golfer who wants nothing between them and their swing.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
I get it-another “best of” list. What makes this one worth your time? I didn’t just read spec sheets. I actually wore, washed, and swung in nine different pairs of shorts to separate marketing hype from real-world performance. My goal was to move past the stars and reviews you see online and give you a genuine, experience-based breakdown.
The scoring isn’t random. I weighted it 70% on real-world playability (How did they feel on the 18th hole? Did they restrict my swing? Did they stay dry?) and 30% on innovative features and competitive edge (Does the waistband do something special? Are the pockets actually useful?). This is why a short with a slightly lower public review average can rank higher here-because its specific features directly translate to a better golf experience.
Take our top pick, the Under Armour Tech shorts. They scored a 9.5, edging out fantastic options, because the harmony of stretch, weight, and moisture management is just flawless. Compare that to our excellent value pick, Amazon Essentials, which scored a 9.2. The 0.3 difference represents the trade-off between ultimate technical performance and incredible budget-friendly value-both are winning choices, just for different priorities.
Ultimately, these rankings are about finding the right tool for your game. Whether you need the best pure performance, the smartest budget buy, or a short for a specific need like extra length, this list is built from actual use, not just aggregated data.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Golf Shorts for Comfort and Performance
1. Fit and Inseam: It's Not Just About Size
This is the most important factor. A good golf short should allow a full, unrestricted shoulder turn without pulling at the waist or thighs. Look for terms like ‘classic,’ ‘regular,’ or ‘straight’ fit for roomier comfort, or ‘modern’ for a trimmer silhouette. Pay close attention to the inseam. A 9-11 inch inseam is the traditional standard, sitting at or just above the knee. A 7-inch inseam offers a more contemporary, athletic look and better ventilation, but always check your club’s dress code.
2. Fabric Technology: Your Secret Weapon
Forget heavy cotton. Modern golf shorts use performance fabrics. Four-way stretch is the gold standard, allowing the material to move in every direction with your body. Moisture-wicking is non-negotiable; it pulls sweat away from your skin to keep you dry. For sunny climates, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 30+ is a smart feature that blocks harmful rays right through the fabric.
3. The Waistband: Where Comfort Lives
You’ll be in these for 4+ hours. The waistband matters. Traditional belt loops offer a classic look. Elastic or expandable waistbands, like the one on the PGA TOUR shorts, provide incredible flexibility and comfort, especially when riding in a cart or after a big lunch. Some hybrids feature elastic sides with a non-stretch back for a clean look with a touch of give.
4. Pockets and Practical Features
Think about what you carry. Most shorts have four or five pockets. Deep side pockets are essential for holding multiple golf balls. A secure zippered pocket is perfect for car keys, a phone, or a wallet. Some dedicated golf shorts even have a hidden tee slot or ball marker pouch. Consider what you need quick access to during your round.
5. Style and Versatility
Your golf shorts don’t have to live in your golf bag. Many of today’s best options are designed for a ‘courtside-to-clubhouse’ transition. A flat-front design in a solid color like navy, grey, or khaki is incredibly versatile. Consider if you want a short that looks athletic or one that leans more towards a casual dress short-both have their place depending on your personal style and the courses you frequent.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are 7-inch inseam shorts acceptable for golf?
It depends entirely on your golf course’s dress code. Many modern and public courses are perfectly fine with a 7-inch inseam, especially if they have a more relaxed, athletic atmosphere. However, most traditional private clubs and some high-end resorts still require shorts to be at or near the knee (typically a 9-11 inch inseam). When in doubt, it’s always safest to check the specific club’s policy or opt for a longer length.
2. Can I just wear regular athletic shorts for golf?
You can, but you’ll likely be sacrificing both performance and style. Dedicated golf shorts are engineered for the sport. They have stretch patterns that align with a rotational swing, fabrics that manage moisture over a long period (not just a quick workout), and often include features like secure pockets for tees and balls. They’re also cut and styled to look appropriate in a golf setting, which mesh or very short gym shorts often are not.
3. How should golf shorts fit?
The perfect fit is comfortable but not baggy. You should be able to perform a full golf swing without any pulling across the hips, thighs, or seat. There should be no excess fabric that billows in the wind, but also no tightness that restricts movement. When trying them on, simulate your golf posture and takeaway. The waistband should stay in place without digging in. Remember, you’ll be sitting (in a cart), walking, bending, and swinging.
4. What's the best way to care for performance golf shorts?
To preserve moisture-wicking abilities, stretch, and color, always follow the care label. Generally, wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle and avoid fabric softeners, which can clog the moisture-wicking fibers. Tumble dry on low heat or, better yet, hang them to dry. This prevents excessive wear and helps maintain the fabric’s technical properties and fit for much longer.
Final Verdict
After testing all of these options, the clear takeaway is that there’s never been a better time to buy golf shorts. You don’t have to choose between looking good and playing comfortably anymore. For most golfers, the Under Armour Tech Golf Shorts represent the pinnacle of balanced performance-they simply do everything well. But if your priority is stretching your dollar without sacrificing quality, the Amazon Essentials Stretch Shorts are an absolute revelation. No matter your budget, fit preference, or style, one of these nine pairs will help you look, feel, and play your best.
