Rediscovering the Forgotten Etiquette of The Golf Course

Golf has long been a beloved pastime for many, myself included. It’s not just a sport but an integral part of my life, filled with tradition and etiquette. However, I’ve noticed some changes that have affected the game I hold dear. Here are some often overlooked nuances of golf etiquette that deserve a mention before they get out of hand.

This is something we’ve spoken about in some depth before. Many golfers have reached out to share their own experiences, including many annoyances, that they want addressed. My latest video on golf etiquette addresses five more of these considerations. I’ll explain each below.

So if you haven’t read the original guide to golf etiquette, start there. This is the latest addition, and it’s based in large part on viewer response. Once you’re caught up, please let us know what else we should include. Golf has so many unwritten rules. Let’s talk about them.

Dressing Up for Golf Tournaments

Attending golf tournaments, even as a spectator, carries an unspoken dress code. Just because you’re watching doesn’t mean you can ignore the decorum that the sport demands. While modern styles may blur lines, showing up in jeans and t-shirts is generally frowned upon. Instead, consider wearing a collared shirt with buttons and appropriate pants or shorts, especially if you’re visiting a major tournament. Remember, this isn’t a beach outing—respect the venue with your attire. For footwear, almost anything goes, but spikes can be beneficial if you plan to follow golfers around grassy hills.

And as we discussed in our guide to playing at private golf clubs, it pays to plan ahead. Your day-to-day wear is your own business. When you show up to a golf course, respect the club’s dress code. The dress code also differs for men and women. As archaic as that might sound, make sure to check the expectations for your gender before attending.

“Check the weather before leaving the house. Golf courses are much more lenient when keeping warm and dry. If it’s going to rain, it’s perfectly ok to bring your yellow raincoat if you don’t have any fancy golf rain gear.” – Golfspan’s Guide to Golf Tournament Attire

Respecting the Green

In the same way there’s an etiquette to using a push cart on the golf course, there’s an etiquette to stepping on the green. As discussed in my video, there’s never a valid reason to step on another player’s line on the green. As Nat’s story highlights, when players’ lines intersect, it’s simple courtesy to use your putter to move your marker aside. Always prioritize the smoothness of another’s putt over your own impatience. Respect and integrity are at the heart of golf, and this practice ensures a fair game for all.

There’s another point worth mentioning when it comes to green etiquette. That’s learning how to read a green. Novice players sometimes approach every green the same way. Putting is putting, right? But the green’s moisture, slope, and even grass direction play a role in the putt. The better a golfer gets at green reading, the more fun they have on the green.

Honesty on the Scorecard

Cheating on scorecards, especially during scramble tournaments, is a disturbing trend. These tournaments are meant for fun and accessibility, not glory. Falsifying scores for a reward tarnishes not just personal integrity, but the essence of the sport itself. Competing fairly is what defines a reputable golfer.

And this applies whether you’re playing golf with strangers or with your usual group. Respect the other players and, just as importantly, respect yourself. Integrity shouldn’t be a lost art.

Dogs on the Golf Course

Bringing dogs onto the golf course isn’t entirely out of the question if managed properly. With proper rules—such as keeping dogs leashed, off greens and tee boxes, and limiting excessive barking—our furry friends might just become a welcome sight. Above all, cleaning up after them’s a must.

Keeping Tempers in Check

Emotions can run high during a round, but there’s never a reason to let anger spill onto the course. Whether a partner is playing slowly or happens to step in your line, patience and composure are the keys to a good game. If a situation escalates, involve the course marshal rather than losing your cool.

Remember, golf is a game of honor and tradition. Even on a bad day, being on the course is a privilege. Let’s cherish our time, respect one another, and preserve the etiquette that makes golf great. Thanks for reading. For more, check out Golfspan.com.