A good pair of women’s golf pants combines form with function. Above all else, they blend a trendy look with stretchy, breathable materials to lend an air of confidence and boost a lady golfer’s mobility to drive, chip, and putt her way to victory. But that’s only scratching the surface of what golf pants can offer.
Golf pants come in all shapes and sizes — and each pair has its own style and set of features, like pockets or water-resistant fabrics, that are handy when golfing. If you’re in the market and want to improve your odds of making the right purchase, we’ve created this list of the best golf pants for women.
How to pick the right golf pants for you
The one or more fabrics used in a pair of women’s golf pants will determine its breathability, water resistance, and feel. Here’s a quick rundown of the characteristics of the fabrics and materials used in our top picks.
— Elastane/spandex. The term elastane is a catch-all term for synthetic fabrics commonly known as spandex and Lycra. Spandex gives pants exceptional stretch, strong moisture-wicking qualities, and high breathability.
— Nylon. Nylon is a very durable fabric that can withstand a lot of rough and tumble sports. Nylon fabrics are highly elastic, so they can undergo extreme stretching without losing their shape. They’re also resistant to sunlight, abrasions, heat, and water.
— Polyester. Polyester is a strong and lightweight fabric. It dries quickly after being wet and tends to resist staining. Polyester fabrics are a less expensive alternative to nylon and are less likely to wrinkle or shrink. However, they’re prone to holding odors.
— Rayon and viscose. Rayon is made from natural wood pulp fibers, though it’s considered to be synthetic because it must be chemically treated during production. Viscose is the same fabric, but it goes through a different kind of chemical treatment. Rayon is breathable and has a cool, soft feel. Viscose is also breathable but has a more lightweight feel.
Some of the pants on our list have an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. These ratings tell shoppers how much UV radiation makes it through the fabric. Just know that the higher the rating, the less UV radiation makes it through. The highest UPF rating is 50+, meaning the material only allows 2% of UV radiation to make it to your skin.
Comfort in women’s golf pants is all about stretchability, breathability, and fit. Durability is how well a pair of pants can withstand the elements and the number of games it’ll last before noticeable wear and tear. There’s usually a trade-off when you go for a “comfortable” pair versus a “durable” pair. Comfortable pants may wear out faster than pants made from more durable materials. You’ll have to decide which of the two factors you value more and go from there.
The ladies’ golf pants on our list are designed to make you feel confident on the course so you swing your best without feeling too hot or restricted. Of course, the right pair for you depends heavily on your own needs and personal preferences.
FAQ
What’s the difference between regular pants and golf pants?
Many everyday pants share a lot of the same materials and qualities as golf pants. Golf pants are even worn into the office, depending on the style and cut. One difference, however, is that golf pants aren’t usually lined. This makes them cooler and more comfortable than other types, such as formal dress pants.
Can golf pants be worn as dress pants?
Golf pants can absolutely double as dress pants for the right occasion. Many golf pants are advertised as being suitable for professional environments.