Best Golf Shorts 2025: Tested to find the perfect pair for summer
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The ‘shortlist of shorts’ is out! Today’s Golfer has selected the best golf shorts to make those sunny rounds even better!
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Calf muscles across the land will be twitching with excitement, their chance to shine is here, as the dependable golf pants hit the back of the wardrobe to make way for the Bermuda shorts!
Nothing says “I’m going low today” more than rocking up to the first tee with the sunglasses down and legs out. “Life is breezy, golf is easy”, you tell yourself before slicing it out of bounds. However, the usual wave of frustration fails to materialize. It must be those shorts cooling you down. All good rounds start with a double bogey, right?
Best golf shorts 2025: At a glance
Whether you play regularly in sunny climates or only for a few months of the year, playing in the heat is made a good deal easier by playing in shorts. There is nothing worse than overheating and feeling uncomfortable as you prepare to hit your ball. Golf clothing should be a non-invasive extension of your body, and definitely not a hindrance to your game.
A quality pair of golf shorts will not only look the part, but will have in-built performance benefits such as moisture-wicking capabilities, stretchability, and functionality, in the same way as the best polo shirts. All the major brands are innovating to create golf shorts that fulfill these performance demands whilst also appealing to varying styles and fitting preferences.
Bearing that in mind, this is an incredibly crowded marketplace, and whittling down all of the shorts we’ve tested over the past couple of months to a list of the 10 best has been very difficult.
If your legs are in the market for a pair of the best golf shorts in 2025, read on…
Best Golf Shorts 2025
The perfect pair of golf shorts
The 8-inch inseam makes the Tech Chino shorts a more modern-fitting pair of golf shorts with a tailored fit, which makes them versatile to wear on and off the golf course.
These shorts are part of TravisMathew's Eco Collection, made using 72 percent recycled polyester. This is an incredibly comfortable pair of golf shorts, and that can be attributed to the combination of materials, with 20 percent of the shorts being made from cotton.
Golf shorts don't get any better than this, factoring in that they're environmentally friendly, reasonably priced, comfortable, and versatile.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Amazing fit and length
- Good choice of colors
- Great pocket space
Cons
- Zipper doesn't feel the most solid
| Sizes | 30 - 42 |
| Colors | Nine |
| Materials | 72% Recycled Polyester; 20% Cotton; 8% Spandex |
- Part of the Eco Collection
- Woven blend of premium materials
- Single welt back pockets
- Left back pocket secured with button closure
- Custom buttons for an elevated look
- 8" inseam
Premium golf shorts that don't look out of place off the course
The quality of these Turtleson golf shorts is second-to-none. The material is light and breathable, while being substantial enough to hold their shape extremely well.
The fabric is stretchy enough to allow for a full range of movement, no matter how hard you swing. The beauty of the high-quality stretch fabric is it always falls back into place, wash after wash.
To ensure you find the perfect fit, Turtleson offers the Tri-Cities II Stretch Performance Shorts in a wide range of sizes that increase in 1-inch increments between the most popular sizes.
Pros
- Waist size increases in 1-inch icrements around most common sizes
- Super high-quality
- Very flexible and stretchy
- Versatile style can be worn for multiple events and occasions
Cons
- Not many dark color options
| Sizes | 30 - 42 |
| Colors | Five |
| Materials | 90% Polyester; 10% Spandex |
- High-quality stretch fabric
- Water-resistant
- Moisture-wicking
- 8" inseam
- Breathable material
Golf shorts that are super easy to care for and wear
When I first had a look at these golf shorts, I was shocked to see the button has no use; it's purely there for decorative purposes. The elastic waist allows you to simply pull these shorts on (as the name suggests) as you would a pair of swimming trunks. This might not sound particularly formal, but once they're on, it's hard to notice they're not a typical pair of golf shorts.
The biggest positive with the Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts is how they don't crease, and even if they do, the creases fall out as soon as you put them on. This makes them an ideal pair of shorts to travel with.
Johnnie-O apparel isn't as readily available in the UK as it is in the US, but if you want to dress like Peter Finch, this is the brand you want.
Pros
- Easy to travel with because they don't crease
- Super comfortable
- Extremely versatile shorts
- Good pocket space
Cons
- Expensive shipping to UK
| Sizes | 30 - 40 |
| Colors | Six |
| Materials | 79% Nylon; 21% Spandex |
- Easy care
- Moisture wicking
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Wrinkle resistant
- UPF 50
- 4-Way stretch
Golf shorts I could wear all day
Comfort is massively important, considering you'll have them on for roughly four hours as a minimum, but these shorts have much more to offer. The tricot fabrication is of very high quality, and the stretchy fabric adds to the comfort.
The 9" inseam makes them much more of a classic-fitting pair of golf shorts, but they sit very nicely because of the classic flat front design.
The finish on the fabric makes them look incredibly premium, and for the price, these are certainly a pair of golf shorts to consider.
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Great quality
- Spacious and roomy
Cons
- Not as widely available in the US as they are in the UK
| Sizes | 30 - 42 |
| Colors | Five |
| Materials | 78% Nylon; 22% Elastane |
- Tricot fabrication
- Enhanced with stretch
- Classic flat front design
- Streamline cut
- Penguin Pete logo on front button closure
- 9” inseam
- Machine wash
High-quality, heavy golf shorts
The Classic Stretch Shorts sport a more classic fit, which I can see suiting a wider range of golfers. Available in a wide range of colors and sizes, adding to their appeal.
These Ashworth golf shorts are very comfortable, and the weight of the shorts, I think, helps in this area because you can really feel the quality of the matte polyester material.
Pros
- Amazing quality
- Classic fit to suit a wider range of golfers
- Comfortable and stretchy
Cons
- Not as breathable as other shorts
| Sizes | 30 - 44 |
| Colors | Five |
| Materials | 100% Matte polyester |
- Two side pockets
- Two back pockets
- 9"-inseam
- Four-way stretch
- Moisture-wicking
- Easy care
- Quick-drying
A pair of golf shorts you can wear for formal occasions
The Peter Millar Surge Performance Shorts are a premium pair of tailored-fit golf shorts that don't look out of place at a nice restaurant. These are a very formal-looking pair of golf shorts that will suit the vast majority of golfers.
The 9" inseam is more classic, which adds to their off-course versatility. The material is light and breathable. While this has its perks, it can be seen as a negative because the material does feel thin. However, they're of a high quality and I've never had an issue with my pair that I've had for over a year.
Pros
- Very smart tailored fit shorts
- Versatile style that can be worn for multiple occasions
- Wide range of colors and sizes available
Cons
- Thin material
| Sizes | 30 - 44 |
| Colors | Five |
| Materials | 90% Polyester; 10% Spandex |
- Tailored Fit
- 9" inseam; 10" rise
- Four-way stretch
- Water-resistant
- Easy-care
- Two quarter-top pockets with concealed security pocket
Best Golf Shorts 2025: Buying Guide
Whether you are off on your annual golfing trip, playing regularly in a hot climate, or simply praying for a couple of sunny rounds, a quality pair of golf shorts is surely a staple in any golfer’s wardrobe. Providing you opt for a pair specifically designed with golf in mind, then you shouldn’t go too far wrong. That being said, the golf shorts marketplace is full of different designs and performance characteristics, which is why we have highlighted some key considerations to help you make the most informed choice.
Comfort
Perhaps the most integral thing to consider, especially since you will likely be wearing them for at least half the day by the time you’ve finished your round, and then spent a couple of hours at the 19th. Consider the level of stretch you require, as certain fabrics will be better at providing higher levels of flexibility. Conversely, other materials, such as cotton, will provide you with a softer feel but may not have the same performance features. As always, if you have the option to try on a pair or two first, then we suggest doing just that.
Breathability
This may not be the first thing that springs to mind, as a pair of shorts already cuts off 50 percent of the material you are used to wearing. In very warm weather, however, your body will be working hard to cool you down, and therefore, ensuring your shorts have sufficient ventilation to let the heat escape is important. On top of this, keep an eye out for moisture-wicking capabilities as this technology will help your legs stay dry whether you are sweating or get caught out in a shower.
Versatility
This is something we highly recommend considering with golf shorts, or any other garment for that matter. Money is hard-earned, and golf apparel can often come at a premium price, which is why we suggest asking yourself if you would wear the shorts in other social settings. Due to their smart appearance compared to cargo or gym shorts, for example, we think golf shorts double up really well for going out to dinner or lunch in warmer climates, or for a social function at the weekend where you want to present a bit smarter.
Sizing
It’s worth taking the time to measure your waist (midway between the bottom of your ribs and hips) before making your purchase, or at least checking the size of another pair of shorts or trousers you know fit comfortably. Also, be aware that the same sizes in different brands may differ somewhat, and therefore, it’s good practice to read the sizing guides and perhaps a couple of reviews to understand if the shorts are true to size or not. If you are between sizes, then sizing up is a sensible option, as you can always tighten up with a belt.
Budget
Finally, consider your budget and the amount of wear you are hoping to get from your new shorts. If you play regularly in shorts, then perhaps you are after a more affordable model you can buy in a couple of different colors. Alternatively, if getting your legs out is a rarity, then maybe investing in a more premium pair is wise, so they will last for several years. Either way, with models at every price point, you will be sure to find a style that gets the job done.
Best Golf Shorts: FAQs
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Best Golf Shorts 2025
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The Original Penguin The Player 9" Golf Shorts are high quality
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The Original Penguin The Player 9" Golf Shorts are very comfortable
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Original Penguin The Player 9" Golf Shorts
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Ashworth Classic Strecth Shorts are comfortable and high quality
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Ashworth Classic Strecth Shorts
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Ashworth Classic Strecth Shorts sport a more classic fit
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts have very deep pockets
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts are easy to wear and care for
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts are available in a good range of colors and sizes
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Short are availble in a 7" or 9" inseam
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts are a classic fit
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts are very comfortable
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Shorts are versatile
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Peter Millar Surge Performance Shorts
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Peter Millar Surge Performance Shorts are very formal
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The TravisMathew Tech Chine Short 8" are available in a wide range of colors
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The TravisMathew Tech Chine Short 8" sport a modern fit and good length
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The TravisMathew Tech Chine Short 8" are extremely comfortable
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TravisMathew Tech Chine Short 8"
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Turtleson Tri-Cities II Stretch Performance Shorts
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The Turtleson Tri-Cities II Stretch Performance Shorts are extremely versatile
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The Turtleson Tri-Cities II Stretch Performance Shorts have an 8" inseam
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The Turtleson Tri-Cities II Stretch Performance Shorts are super comfortable
