Guide On The Best Fabrics For Golf Shirts

Golf is a game of rhythm, movement and endurance, and the fabric you wear can either support your round, or ruin it. A2Z Golf have been outfitting golfers, clubs and pro shops across Australia and New Zealand with performance-driven apparel that does more than just tick the boxes. We supply top-tier brands like 38º South, Donald Ross, and Jamie Sadock, and we know what separates an average shirt from one designed to excel on the course.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for in golf shirt fabrics, compare your options, and help you find what works best for your playing style and conditions.

Why Fabric Choice Matters

Golf demands focus and freedom of movement. But if your shirt traps heat, clings to your back, or stiffens your swing, your comfort, and your score, will take a hit.

Poor fabric choices often cause:

• Sweat build-up and overheating
• Restricted mobility in shoulders and arms
• Shirts that fade, wrinkle or lose shape quickly

You might not notice it immediately, but over 18 holes, the wrong shirt becomes impossible to ignore. Choosing the right fabric ensures your attire works with you, not against you.

What Performance Shirts Need to Deliver

The best golf shirts balance comfort with performance. They need to be engineered, not just stitched.

• Moisture-wicking: Draws sweat away from the skin to keep you dry and focused. Look for fabrics with capillary action or specialised weaves.
• Breathability: Ventilated panels or lightweight knit fabrics help regulate body temperature during long rounds.
• Stretch and recovery: Elastane or spandex blends allow for full motion, then bounce back to shape after each swing.
• UV protection: Essential for Australia’s high UV index. Shirts with tight weaves or specific UPF ratings offer added protection.
• Durability and retention: Golf shirts should maintain colour, resist pilling, and retain structure even after repeated washing and wear.

Comparing Common Golf Shirt Fabrics

Understanding your fabric options makes all the difference. Here's how the most common types compare:

Cotton has a soft, familiar feel but struggles with sweat and movement. Polyester dries fast and holds colour, while polyester-spandex blends add flexibility and structure retention, ideal for competitive or all-day play.

Match Your Shirt to the Conditions

Not all rounds are the same, and your shirt should reflect that. Choose fabrics based on your typical playing conditions:

Hot or humid weather

Opt for lightweight polyester or CoolDry fabrics with moisture-wicking properties. The 38 South Men’s CoolDry Solid Polo is a strong choice for summer play.

Cool mornings or mild days

Poly-cotton blends offer a comfortable middle ground, warmer than light synthetics, less restrictive than thick cotton.

Full-day events or coastal courses

UV protection, fast-drying tech and stretch are non-negotiable. Consider options like the Jamie Sadock Sunsense Top or Donald Ross performance shirts.

Addressing Common Concerns

It’s natural to have questions, especially when switching from traditional shirts to performance wear.

Doesn’t polyester feel synthetic?

Not anymore. Today’s technical fabrics are engineered to feel soft and breathable, not slick or plastic. Some are even brushed for a cotton-like finish.

Why are performance shirts more expensive?

They’re built to last longer, fit better, and maintain their properties through dozens of rounds and washes. That’s value over time.

I prefer the feel of cotton.

Try hybrid options, poly-cotton or cotton-spandex blends offer familiar texture with added function. It’s a more balanced solution.

A2Z Golf Staff Picks

Looking to upgrade? These shirts are tested favourites among staff and customers alike:

• 38 South Men’s Contour Polo – Stretch CoolDry fabric with ergonomic design.
• 38 South Ladies CoolDry Insert Polo – Tailored fit and breathable structure.
• Jamie Sadock Sunsense SPF 30 Top – Lightweight, sun-conscious and sleek.

Caring for Performance Fabrics

Treat your shirts well and they’ll return the favour.

• Machine wash cold
• Avoid fabric softeners (they reduce moisture-wicking)
• Line dry where possible
• Fold or roll instead of hanging to avoid shoulder stress

These simple steps help maintain elasticity, appearance and function long-term.

Choose Smarter, Play Better

By now, you know your golf shirt isn’t just about style. The right fabric improves your freedom of movement, keeps you comfortable under pressure, and holds up through long rounds and harsh conditions. When your shirt performs, so can you.

Browse A2Z Golf’s curated range of performance polos and experience the difference the right fabric makes, whether you're prepping for pennant, planning a golf trip, or refreshing your club's pro shop. Explore Golf Polo Shirts:

Men's Golf Polo Shirts

Ladies Golf Polo Shirts