Finding golf shorts that are the right length that give you comfort and playability can be difficult with all the options out there. Short golf shorts, specifically 7 inch, 8 inch, and 9 inch shorts, are options that are short enough for playability but not too short that they are uncomfortable. I like the Amazon Essentials Men’s 9 inch Classic Fit Short Golf Shorts because they have a comfortable fit with a small amount of stretch that are also great on and off the course.
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These are my choices for the best short golf shorts:
- Amazon Essentials Men’s Classic Fit 9″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- PGA TOUR Men’s Pleat 9″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- Dockers Men’s Classic Fit 8″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- PGA TOUR Men’s Flat Front 7″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- Adidas Men’s Ultimate 365 9″ Short Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- Amazon Essentials Men’s Slim-fit 9″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- BALEAF Men’s Cargo 7″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- CRZ YOGA Men’s Quick Dry 7/9″ Short Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- PGA TOUR Men’s Stretch 9″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- *Women’s* Toomett Stretch 7″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- *Women’s* BALEAF 7″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- *Women’s* PGA TOUR 360 Stretch 9″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- *Women’s* Little Donkey Andy 8″ Golf Shorts (click here to view)
- *Women’s* KELLY KLARK 9″ Chino Golf Shorts (click here to view)
The first thing you need to decide on when you are looking to buy short golf shorts is how long do you want them to be. This list has inseam lengths from 7 inch shorts that should fit above the knee to 9 inch golf shorts that should fit right at the knee.
You will also need to decide how you want the shorts to fit. You can get slim fit golf shorts that should contour around your body but don’t limit mobility. You can also get regular and relaxed fit shorts that will fit looser through out the waist and legs.
In this article let’s take a closer look at the best shorts for playing golf so you can find options that fit your needs. Let’s also discuss several things to consider when buying golf shorts.
Best Short Golf Shorts
Amazon Essentials Men’s Classic Fit 9″ Golf Shorts
These Amazon Essentials golf shorts have a classic fit with a small amount of stretch that makes them very comfortable. With their classic fit, they have plenty of space for your hips and legs to move freely when playing. They are designed to be wrinkle-free and have moisture wicking technology to keep you dry on the course. Here’s what you need to know about these Amazon Essentials 9 inch golf shorts:
- Pockets and Zipper– These 9″ golf shorts have 4 normal sized pockets with 2 in the front and 2 in the back. The back left pocket has a button to help keep it closed while the front 2 pockets are big enough for golf balls and tees. These shorts have a small fly zipper with a button closure.
- Fit – As mentioned, these are a classic fitting shorts that will fit comfortably and have good range of motion. They also have about 2% of spandex material to help them stretch some if needed. They should fit true to size.
- Material – These shorts are primarily made of polyester with a little bit of spandex. The material is designed to be wrinkle free. They also have moisture wicking abilities to help keep you dry and comfortable on the course.
Click here to view these Amazon Essentials 9 inch golf shorts available at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com). These golf shorts are machine washable.
PGA TOUR Men’s Pleat 9″ Golf Shorts
PGA Tour’s 9″ golf shorts are designed to stretch with your body to keep your swing free during the round. They also have moisture wicking technology to keep you dry and free from sweat. Here’s what you need to know about these PGA Tour golf shorts:
- Fit– These shorts have a relaxed fit but aren’t too loose. They have a flexible waistline that can expand and contract as you swing the club. The pleat will give them a bit of style but also added comfort. These shorts should run true to size.
- Design – These shorts have a double pleat pattern with stretch seams. The seams are designed to stretch with the golfer during the swing. They have a 9 inch seam that provides coverage down to the knee for most men.
- Material – These shorts are primarily made of polyester which makes them very durable. The material is designed to be wrinkle free as well. They also have moisture wicking abilities to help keep you dry and comfortable on the course.
Click here to view these PGA Tour golf shorts available at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com). These golf shorts are machine washable.
Dockers Men’s Classic Fit 8″ Golf Shorts
These Docker’s 8 inch golf shorts have a very sleek and modern look that wear comfortably on the waist. They have a 5th pocket for your phone or other golf gear like tees. Here’s what you need to know about these Dockers classic fit 8 inch golf shorts:
- Material -These shorts are made from 100% cotton which means they will be durable and are naturally water resistant. They are also should be a bit warmer than other golf shorts, so keep that when playing in these shorts.
- Fit– These 8 inch golf shorts have a classic fit and naturally wear on the waist. They have plenty of room through the hips and waist, but aren’t so loose that they get in the way. They should also fit true to size. Since they are 100% cotton, be sure to launder these probably so they don’t shrink.
Click here to view these Dockers 8 inch golf shorts available at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com). These shorts are machine washable.
Toomett Women’s Stretch 7″ Golf Shorts
These Toomett 7 inch golf shorts are designed specifically for outdoor activities like golf and hiking. They have plenty of pockets but also fit stylishly around a woman’s body. Here’s what you need to know about these Toomett Women’s 7 inch golf shorts:
- Material – These Toomett women’s golf shorts are made from a 4 way stretch fabric that will contour around a woman’s body and stretch any direction for great playability. These shorts also have built in 50 SPF protection which is great for playing in the sun.
- Design – These shorts have 5 pockets, 2 of them having zip pockets to keep your valuables from falling out. They are also water repellant, which will help keep you dry on the hot summer days. The waistband is also partially elastic which allows you to wear them in variety of ways.
Click here to view these Toomett women’s 7 inch golf shorts available at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com). These shorts are machine washable.
Other Short Golf Shorts to Consider
- PGA TOUR Men’s Flat Front 7″ Golf Shorts – If you are looking for some shorts that fit higher on the leg, these are a great option. They have a sleek look and are made primarily of polyester. They do have a little spandex material to help them stretch and keep your swing free. They also have moisture wicking technology to keep you dry and cool in the hot summer heat. They also have built in sun protection. Click here to view these PGA Tour 7 inch golf shorts on Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
- Adidas Men’s Ultimate 365 9″ Short Golf Shorts– These Adidas 9 inch golf shorts are slim fitting but a comfortable option for the average golfer. They also have some elastic material to help the shorts stretch to fit and perform for many body types. These 9 inch golf shorts also have built in sun protection for the hot summer sun. Click here to view these Adidas golf shorts at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com)
- BALEAF Women’s 7″ Golf Shorts – These women’s golf shorts are looser fitting than most women’s shorts. With that said, they are still stylish and contour around a woman’s body. They are made from nylon and spandex which makes them durable and flexible for most women. These 7 inch shorts also are water resistant. Finally, the drawstring allows you to adjust them to however you want to wear them. Click here to view these BALEAF Women’s 7 inch golf shorts available at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
5 Things to Consider When Buying Short Golf Shorts
Length
You have many options in seam length. Most short golf shorts will have an inseam length between 5 and 9 inches. The length of the inseam will be the most important factor in determining how far down the leg your shorts will fit.
In general, shorter, slimmer fitting golf shorts should be around 3-4 inches above your knee. While looser, longer fitting shorts should be equal or close to the knee. When you have looser fitting shorts, sometimes the inseam will be longer than the same shorts in a different style, so pay attention to any size guides.
Fit
With shorts in general, you have wide variety of fits ranging from slim fit to relaxed to loose fitting. This the same with golf shorts as well. Slim fit shorts should contour around your body but also shouldn’t impact your swing. While loose fitting shorts will likely need belt.
As mentioned, the way the shorts fit might lead to differences in seam length. Most loose fitting shortshave longer inseams so they fit correctly. Keep in mind that there may be limited options for exact seam lengths and loose fitting shorts.
Design Features of Short Golf Shorts
In general, most golf shorts are pretty similar. But there are small design differences that can make a huge difference. Here are some things to consider:
- Pockets – Some golf shorts will only have 2 front pockets and none in the back for a more stylish look. Some will have the traditional 4 pockets with 2 in the front and 2 in the back. While some even go a step further and have a 5th pocket designed for golf tees or your ball marker.
- Zipper vs Pull On – Some golf shorts will have a zipper while some just pull on with a button for closure. Typically, the shorter the inseam, such as 7 inch golf shorts, the more likely they will have pull on design options.
- Waistband – You will find golf shorts with elastic waistbands, classic designs, and even ones with built in belts. In all of these styles, you should be able to find shorts that have a silicone or elastic inner lining that holds your shirt so it doesn’t get untucked as you are playing.
Golf Gear To Consider
There are many things besides your short golf shorts that you will want to look into buying when heading to the golf course. Here are articles on gear you may want to look into before you play your next round:
- Sandals for golf
- Golfing Slip On Shoes
- High Top Golf Shoes
- Slim Fit Golf Pants
- Stretch Golf Pants
- Short Sleeve Golfing Jacket
- Loose Fit Golf Pants
- Sweater Vests for Golf
If you are looking for sizing for your next set of golf shoes, here are our sizing guides we have for popular brands:
Weather Features
Some short golf shorts will have SPF protection while some do not. While this is a feature prevalent in golf pants, it isn’t as common in shorts. The type of fabric will depend on whether or not they provide sun protection.
Some short golf shorts will have moisture wicking technology that will help keep the shorts dry from spills or rain. These types of short golf shorts will typically also help keep you dry from your sweat, keeping you dry and cooler.