Golf Shirts vs. Polo Shirts: What’s The Difference?

Both golf shirts and polo shirts are staples in casual and athletic wardrobes, but despite their similarities, they are designed with different purposes in mind.

Many golfers, men and women, ask us whether or not a golf shirt vs. polo shirt are the same things since most folks use the terms golf shirt and polo shirt interchangeably.

The simple answer is that they are not the same.

However, the polo shirt design is very popular and manufacturers of golf shirts have taken notice. There are now golf polo shirts. Crafted for optimal athletic performance, these shirts feature UV protection, odor resistance, and anti-wrinkle materials. They often come with a more structured button-down collar, which remains secure throughout play, unlike traditional polo shirts. Golf polos are also typically designed with longer sleeves for added coverage compared to standard short-sleeve polos. In our view, golf polos offer greater versatility than tennis or regular polo shirts, delivering superior comfort and ergonomic flexibility for active wear.

Shop Golf Circuit's selection of golf shirts for men and women's golf polos & shirts.

What Are The Differences In The Golf vs. Polo Shirt? 

Golf shirts are designed with performance and athletic movement in mind, incorporating moisture-wicking fabrics, UV protection, and enhanced flexibility. They are ideal for both men and women who prioritize comfort and performance on the golf course.

Regular polo shirts are suited for everyday wear or business casual settings but they lack the performance features of golf shirts.

Understanding the differences between these two types of shirts can help you make a more informed choice, whether you're on the golf course, heading to the office, or enjoying a casual day out.

Fit and Structure

Golf Shirts:

• Men's Golf Shirts: Golf shirts are typically designed with a slightly more athletic fit to allow freedom of movement during the golf swing. They feature ergonomic designs with more room around the shoulders and chest, providing flexibility without being too loose.
• Women's Golf Shirts: For women, golf shirts are often tailored with a slightly tapered waist, offering a flattering fit without restricting movement. Women's golf polo shirts also come in sleeveless and long sleeve options for added comfort during warm or cooler weather.

Polo Shirts:

• Men's Polo Shirts: Polo shirts generally have a more casual, relaxed fit compared to golf shirts. The sleeves are often shorter, and the shirt is less structured, making them suitable for casual settings or office wear.
• Women's Polo Shirts: Polo shirts for women are also designed with a relaxed, casual fit. They don’t feature the performance-driven tailoring found in golf shirts. The focus is more on comfort and style for everyday wear

Sleeve Length and Design



Golf Shirts:

• Golf shirts tend to have longer (short) sleeves than traditional polos, offering better sun protection on the golf course. The sleeves are also designed to stay in place during movement, helping maintain comfort throughout the game.
• Women’s golf shirts often come with sleeveless options providing more freedom of movement and comfort during hot weather, especially during summer months and long sleeve options for cooler weather.

Polo Shirts:

• Polo shirts have a standard short-sleeve design, which is generally shorter than golf shirts. They are not designed with athletic performance in mind, so the sleeve length and structure can vary significantly depending on the brand or style

Fabric and Material

Golf Shirts:

• Golf shirts are typically made from high-performance materials such as polyester blends or spandex, which offer moisture-wicking and breathable This is essential for keeping the player cool and dry during a round of golf.
• UV protection is another common feature in golf shirts, designed to protect golfers from sun exposure during long hours on the course.
• Additionally, golf shirts often feature anti-odor and anti-wrinkle technology, ensuring the golfer remains fresh and comfortable throughout their game.

Polo Shirts:

• Polo shirts, on the other hand, are traditionally made from cotton or cotton-blend fabrics, offering a more comfortable, casual feel. However, cotton lacks the moisture-wicking capabilities of performance fabrics, meaning polos aren’t ideal for intense athletic activities.
• Some modern polo shirts incorporate performance fabrics, but they are still typically less technical compared to golf shirts, focusing more on everyday comfort rather than athletic performance

Collar Design

Golf Shirts:

• Golf shirts often feature a structured, stay-in-place collar, designed to withstand movement during the swing. The collar is meant to stay crisp and provide a more polished look, which is often required at golf courses.
• These collars are usually made from stiffer materials to maintain their shape throughout the game, even during physical exertion.

Polo Shirts:

• Polo shirts generally have softer, more relaxed collars, designed for comfort rather than performance. These collars tend to lose shape more easily after washing or extended wear, which can make them less suitable for professional or athletic settings.

Functionality and Performance

Golf Shirts:

• Golf shirts are engineered with performance in mind, designed to keep golfers comfortable and focused throughout their game. The moisture-wicking fabrics, UV protection, and stretchable materials ensure optimal performance during hot, sunny, or physically demanding conditions 
• For both men and women, the key focus of a golf shirt is to enhance mobility while maintaining a polished, professional appearance.

Polo Shirts:

• Polo shirts are primarily designed for casual wear, whether it’s for a casual outing, business casual setting, or semi-formal event. They offer comfort but do not have the performance features needed for athletic activity.
• While polo shirts can be worn on the golf course, they do not provide the same level of comfort, flexibility, and protection that golf shirts offer during a round

Style and Versatility

Golf Shirts:

• Men’s Golf Shirts: While golf shirts are primarily designed for performance, they still come in a variety of stylish designs, ranging from solid colors to subtle patterns. Brands like Puma and Bad Birdie offer modern, fashion-forward designs that allow men to express their personal style while maintaining peak performance
• Women’s Golf Shirts: Women’s golf shirts come in sleeveless, short-sleeve, and long-sleeve options, and are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. This diversity makes them a fashionable choice both on and off the course. Bad Birdie is known for its bold and colorful designs, offering options for women who want to make a statement while playing.

 Polo Shirts:

• Polo shirts, while versatile, tend to have a more classic, understated look, typically featuring solid colors or simple stripes. They are suitable for a variety of settings, including casual, business, or semi-formal occasions, but do not offer the same range of athletic-oriented features found in golf shirts.
• Polo shirts are often considered a wardrobe essential for casual outings and are known for their timeless style and comfort

Golf fashion has evolved significantly over the years, and today’s golf polos for both men and women are a stylish combination of performance, comfort, and unique design. From traditional, classic looks to bold, fashion-forward patterns, modern golf polos cater to every golfer's personality and style preference. Brands like Bad Birdie and Puma are leading the way in offering versatile options that allow golfers to express themselves both on and off the course.

Whether you’re a golfer who prefers a more understated look or someone who likes to stand out on the course, there are golf polos available to suit every taste and personality.

From solid colors and structured collars to vibrant prints and sleeveless options for women, the modern golf polo is as versatile and stylish as it is functional. With moisture-wicking fabrics, UV protection, and ergonomic fits, these golf polos ensure that golfers not only look good but feel comfortable and perform their best on the course.