So much of a good golf game is mental. It’s hard to feel confident lining up a putt when you’re distracted by a shirt that’s pulling across your shoulders or constantly needs to be tucked back in. When your clothes fit well, you stop thinking about them. You can move freely, swing powerfully, and focus entirely on your next shot. That’s the difference a well-designed shirt makes. This isn’t just about finding something in your size; it’s about finding a piece of apparel that builds confidence from the first tee to the last. We’ll show you exactly what to look for in big and tall golf shirts so you can feel as good as you play.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on Features, Not Just the Size: A great golf shirt needs more than a big size tag. Look for essentials like moisture-wicking fabric, added length in the body, and stretch material to ensure you get a full range of motion and stay comfortable all day.
- Choose Brands Built for Your Body: Instead of just sizing up at a standard store, shop from brands that design their clothes specifically for big and tall frames. This ensures the proportions are right, giving you a flattering fit that isn't just wide and boxy.
- Wash Smart to Keep Your Shirts Performing: Protect your performance fabrics by washing them in cold water and always air drying. Skip the fabric softener, as it can clog the material and ruin its ability to wick away sweat.
What to Look for in a Big & Tall Golf Shirt
Finding a great golf shirt when you're a bigger guy can feel like a real challenge. Too often, brands just scale up their standard sizes, leaving you with a shirt that’s either too short and rides up your belly or so wide it looks like a tent. But the right shirt does more than just cover you—it helps you play better and feel more comfortable for all 18 holes. A good golf shirt should move with you, keep you cool under pressure, and fit your frame properly without pulling or pinching.
When you’re shopping, it’s about looking past the size tag and focusing on the details that matter. We’re talking about specific fabrics that handle sweat, construction that allows for a full swing, and a cut that’s actually designed for a big and tall body. It’s not just about finding something that fits; it’s about finding something that performs. Think about features like moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry, stretch materials for unrestricted movement, and even UV protection for long days in the sun. These aren't just nice-to-haves; they are essential for comfort and confidence on the course.
Stay Cool with Moisture-Wicking Fabric
Nothing ruins a good round faster than feeling sticky and overheated. That’s where moisture-wicking fabric comes in. Instead of absorbing sweat like a standard cotton polo, these technical materials pull moisture away from your skin and move it to the fabric's surface, where it can evaporate quickly. This process helps regulate your body temperature, keeping you cooler and drier from the first tee to the final putt. When you’re looking at shirt descriptions, keep an eye out for polyester blends or fabrics specifically labeled as having moisture-wicking properties. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in your overall comfort on a hot day.
Get a Full Range of Motion with Stretch
Your golf swing is a powerful, athletic motion, and your shirt shouldn’t hold you back. A shirt without enough give can feel tight across the shoulders and back, restricting your follow-through. Look for golf shirts made with stretch fabrics, which usually means a blend of polyester and a small percentage of spandex or elastane. This added stretch allows the shirt to move with you, providing a full range of motion without pulling or bunching up. For bigger guys, this is especially important for preventing that constricted feeling in the chest and upper arms, letting you swing freely and with confidence.
Protect Your Skin with UV Protection
Spending four to five hours on the golf course means a lot of time in the sun. While sunscreen is a must, your clothing can offer another critical layer of defense. Many modern golf shirts are made with fabric that has an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, which measures how much of the sun's harmful UV radiation it blocks. A shirt with a UPF rating of 30 or higher is a great choice for protecting your skin during long rounds. It’s a simple way to reduce your sun exposure without having to constantly reapply lotion to your shoulders, back, and chest.
Find a Fit That's Actually for You
This is the big one. A true big & tall fit isn't just a larger version of a standard size. Many brands simply add width, resulting in a boxy, unflattering shape. A properly designed big & tall shirt accounts for the unique proportions of a larger frame. This means it should have added length in the torso to prevent it from riding up during your swing, as well as more room in the chest, shoulders, and stomach without looking sloppy. Look for brands that specifically design their patterns for bigger bodies, ensuring the shirt drapes correctly and provides a comfortable, confident fit.
Keep Comfortable with Breathable Materials
Beyond wicking sweat, a great golf shirt needs to be breathable. Breathability refers to how well the fabric allows air to circulate, which is key to preventing you from overheating. Materials like lightweight polyester, mesh panels, and specially engineered knits are designed to promote airflow, helping heat escape from your body. This keeps you feeling fresh, even on the most humid days. When a shirt is both breathable and moisture-wicking, you get the ultimate combination for staying cool and comfortable, allowing you to focus on your game instead of your gear.
The Best Big & Tall Golf Shirt Brands
Finding the right brand is half the battle. While many companies offer extended sizing, only a handful truly understand the fit and fabric needs of a bigger guy. A great big and tall golf shirt shouldn't just be a scaled-up version of a smaller size; it needs to be designed with a larger frame in mind from the very beginning. That means accounting for broader shoulders, a fuller midsection, and the need for extra length that stays tucked in or looks good untucked. A shirt that pulls across your back or rides up your stomach during a swing isn't just uncomfortable—it's a distraction from your game.
We’ve done the research and rounded up the best brands that deliver on their promise of quality, comfort, and style for big and tall golfers. From brands built exclusively for you to classic sportswear giants that have perfected their extended-size collections, these are the names you can trust. Whether you prioritize cutting-edge performance fabric, a classic country club look, or a relaxed, casual vibe, there’s a brand here that will help you look and feel your best on the course.
Strongsize: Built for the Big & Tall Guy
It’s one thing to offer big and tall sizes, and another to build a brand around them. Strongsize falls into the latter category, designing its performance golf polos exclusively for bigger frames. They focus on solving the common fit problems big guys face, like shirts that are too short, too tight in the chest, or too billowy in the wrong places. Their shirts provide extra length to prevent riding up during your swing and are made with stretch fabrics that move with you. Because they’re dedicated to the big and tall market, every detail is thoughtfully considered to ensure a perfect, comfortable fit without sacrificing style.
Callaway: A Classic Golf Brand
As a legacy brand in the golf world, Callaway knows what players need to perform their best. Their big and tall collection extends their technical expertise to larger sizes, offering performance-driven polos, shorts, and outerwear. You can expect classic golf styling combined with modern fabric technologies like moisture-wicking and UV protection. If you’re looking for a trusted, golf-centric brand that offers a reliable fit and features designed specifically for the game, Callaway is a solid choice that delivers pro-level quality for every body type.
Cutter & Buck: Premium and Polished
For the golfer who prefers a more premium, polished look, Cutter & Buck is a fantastic option. Their brand is synonymous with high-quality materials and a refined aesthetic that works just as well in the clubhouse as it does on the fairway. Their big and tall golf apparel is designed to provide a comfortable, flattering fit that never looks sloppy. With a focus on superior craftsmanship and timeless style, these shirts are an investment in your golf wardrobe. They’re perfect for the guy who wants to look sharp while playing his best.
Adidas: Athletic Performance
Adidas brings its signature athletic edge to the golf course, and its big and tall line is no exception. Known for clean, modern designs and performance-enhancing fabrics, Adidas golf shirts are built for the player who sees golf as a sport. Their shirts often feature lightweight, breathable materials that keep you cool under pressure. If you prefer an athletic fit and contemporary style over traditional golf wear, the Adidas big and tall selection is a great place to find gear that helps you move freely and stay comfortable through all 18 holes.
Tommy Bahama: Relaxed Island Style
If your approach to golf is more relaxed, Tommy Bahama offers a laid-back style that’s perfect for a sunny day on the course. While not a pure performance brand, their big and tall collection includes plenty of polos and shorts that are comfortable, breathable, and stylish. Known for their island-inspired aesthetic and high-quality fabrics, their apparel is ideal for the golfer who prioritizes comfort and a casual vibe. It’s the perfect choice for a vacation round or for anyone who wants to bring a bit of paradise to their local course.
Under Armour: Engineered for Athletes
Under Armour built its reputation on performance-enhancing apparel, and their golf gear is a testament to that mission. Their shirts are engineered with technical fabrics designed to wick sweat, fight odor, and move with your body. The Under Armour big and tall line offers a serious athletic advantage, ensuring you stay cool, dry, and unrestricted from your first swing to your last putt. For the player who demands the most from their apparel and wants gear that works as hard as they do, Under Armour delivers on all fronts.
Which Golf Shirt Style Is Right for You?
Once you know what features to look for, you can start thinking about style. Your choice will likely come down to the weather, the course’s dress code, and your personal preference. Most guys keep a few different styles in their rotation to be ready for anything from a chilly morning tee time to a sweltering afternoon round. Let’s walk through the four main types of golf shirts so you can find the ones that will make you feel most comfortable and confident on the course.
The Classic Polo: Timeless and Versatile
The polo is the undisputed king of the golf course, and for good reason. It’s a timeless staple that looks sharp, respects the tradition of the game, and performs well under pressure. For big and tall guys, a great polo is a game-changer. The right one won’t pull across your chest or belly, and it will have enough length to stay tucked in through your entire swing. Look for polos made with performance stretch fabrics that move with you, not against you. The best premium big and tall golf polos are designed to give you a clean, polished look without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.
Long-Sleeve Shirts: For Cooler Days
When the temperature drops, a long-sleeve shirt is your best friend. These aren’t your standard casual long-sleeves; they’re designed specifically for the course. The biggest challenge for taller or broader guys is finding sleeves that are actually long enough and shoulders that don’t feel restrictive. A good long-sleeve golf shirt gives you full mobility for a powerful swing while keeping you warm. Many are made from the same moisture-wicking materials as polos, so you stay dry even when you’re layered up. They’re an essential piece of big and tall golf apparel for extending your golf season into the cooler months.
Quarter-Zips: The Perfect Layering Piece
The quarter-zip is the ultimate layering piece for golfers. It’s perfect for those days when you start with a morning chill and end in the afternoon sun. You can easily pull it on over a polo and zip it up for warmth, then unzip or take it off as the day heats up. For bigger guys, the fit is crucial—you want something that provides warmth without adding bulk. As many golfers will tell you, a good quarter-zip offers a comfortable fit that isn’t too baggy or too tight, making it a versatile favorite in their closets. It’s the ideal solution for unpredictable weather on the course.
Performance Tees: Casual and Comfortable
For a more relaxed round, a trip to the driving range, or a casual day out, a performance tee is a great option. While some private clubs have stricter dress codes, many courses are fine with a clean, well-fitting performance t-shirt. These are engineered for activity, often made from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable. For big and tall guys, the key is finding one with enough length so it doesn’t ride up during your swing. A quality performance tee from a big and tall golf clothing collection will give you a sporty look with all the technical features you need to play your best.
How to Find Your Perfect Fit
Finding a golf shirt that fits well shouldn't feel like a lost cause. The right fit gives you the confidence to focus on your swing, not on pulling down a hem that’s ridden up your back. But when you’re a bigger or taller guy, standard sizing rules just don’t apply. Let’s walk through how to measure yourself correctly and what to look for so you can finally find a shirt that feels like it was made for you.
Decode Big & Tall Size Charts
First things first: not all "Big & Tall" sizing is created equal. A common mistake is assuming that tall sizes are just longer versions of standard shirts. While extra length is essential, a true tall fit also needs to accommodate broader shoulders and larger chests. Similarly, "Big" or "Extended" sizes should offer more room through the torso without looking like a tent. Always check the brand’s specific size chart before you buy, as a 3XL from one company can fit completely differently than a 3XL from another. Pay attention to whether the brand offers separate "Big" and "Tall" options or a combined "Big & Tall" fit.
Measure What Matters: Chest, Shoulders, and Length
Taking a few key measurements is the single best thing you can do to guarantee a great fit. Grab a soft measuring tape (and maybe a friend to help) to get your numbers right.
- Chest: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, right under your armpits. Keep the tape level and snug, but not tight.
- Shoulders: The easiest way to get this is to measure a shirt you already own that fits well in the shoulders. Lay it flat and measure from one shoulder seam to the other.
- Length: Measure from the highest point of your shoulder down to where you want the hem to fall. For a golf shirt, this should be long enough to stay tucked in during a full swing.
Having these three numbers will make it much easier to compare your measurements to a brand’s size chart and find your perfect match.
Find the Right Fit for Your Body Type
Your measurements are the starting point, but the right fit is also about how the shirt moves with you. A golf shirt should offer a full range of motion without pulling across your back or feeling tight in the arms. Look for shirts made with stretch fabrics that allow for unrestricted movement. If you carry more weight in your midsection, find styles that offer a little extra room without being overly baggy. The goal is a clean silhouette that doesn't sacrifice mobility. A well-designed big & tall shirt is cut to flatter your frame, not just cover it.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Many big and tall guys have been conditioned to make a few common mistakes out of necessity. The most frequent is simply sizing up in a standard-fit brand. This usually results in a shirt that’s wide enough but has shoulder seams halfway down your biceps and a collar that’s far too loose. Another pitfall is assuming that if you’re tall, you must also be big in girth. Many brands make this mistake, creating shirts that are long but excessively boxy. Instead of settling, seek out brands that design specifically for your build. They understand these nuances and create patterns that provide the right length and room where you actually need it.
How Much Should You Spend on a Quality Golf Shirt?
Figuring out your budget for a new golf shirt can feel tricky. You want something that performs well and fits right, but you also don’t want to overspend. The good news is that there are great options at every price point. A higher price tag often means more advanced fabrics and construction, but you can absolutely find a fantastic shirt that makes you feel confident on the course without breaking the bank.
Think of it as an investment in your comfort and your game. A shirt that fits properly, wicks away sweat, and moves with you is going to make a huge difference during a long day on the links. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly find, a solid mid-range performer, or a premium piece, we’ll walk you through what to expect at each price level. This will help you decide where you want to invest and how to get the most value for your money.
The Best Value: Under $50
You don’t need a huge budget to get a high-quality golf shirt. If you’re looking to spend under $50, the key is to be a smart shopper. This price range is full of hidden gems, especially if you keep an eye out for sales. Many retailers offer fantastic deals on golf apparel, allowing you to snag a shirt that was originally much more expensive. You can often find last season’s styles or clearance items that deliver the same performance and fit without the premium price tag. This is the perfect way to build out your golf wardrobe with solid, reliable pieces that look and feel great.
The Sweet Spot: $50–$100
This price range is the sweet spot for many guys. When you invest between $50 and $100, you get a noticeable step up in quality, fabric technology, and overall construction. Shirts in this category often feature more advanced moisture-wicking materials, enhanced stretch for a better range of motion, and more refined design details. You’ll find a wide variety of high-quality options from trusted golf brands that are built to last. If you play regularly and want a shirt that can handle frequent wear and washing while still looking sharp, this is an excellent price range to focus on.
Premium Picks: $100+
For the golfer who wants the best of the best, the premium $100+ category is where you’ll find it. These shirts are crafted from top-of-the-line materials with meticulous attention to detail. The fabrics are often lighter, softer, and more breathable, offering superior comfort and performance on the course. Brands in this tier invest heavily in research and development to create shirts that feel custom-made. When you buy one of these exceptional golf shirts, you’re paying for cutting-edge technology, sophisticated style, and durability that will keep it in your rotation for years to come.
How to Find a Great Deal
Regardless of your budget, everyone loves a good deal. One of the best ways to get premium gear for less is to shop during clearance sales. Many top brands offer unbeatable deals on their big & tall apparel at the end of a season, making it the perfect time to stock up. Signing up for email newsletters from your favorite brands is another great strategy. You’ll be the first to know about promotions and special offers, so you can get the shirt you want at a price you’ll love. A little patience and strategic shopping can help you get high-performance golf wear at a fraction of the cost.
Where to Buy Big & Tall Golf Shirts
Knowing what to look for in a golf shirt is only half the battle—you also need to know where to find it. The right retailer can make all the difference between a frustrating search and finding your new favorite polo. Your best bet is to focus on stores and brands that understand the specific needs of a bigger frame. From specialized online brands to trusted department stores, here are the best places to start your search for a golf shirt that fits and feels great.
Go Straight to the Source: Direct-to-Consumer Brands
Shopping directly from a brand built for big and tall guys is often the surest path to a great fit. These companies design their clothes from the ground up with your proportions in mind, so you get shirts with the right length, shoulder width, and room in the midsection. At Strongsize, we focus exclusively on creating premium basics that solve these exact problems. Another great option, Callaway Apparel, offers a selection of performance golf wear designed to give you a full range of motion on the course without compromising on style or fit.
Visit the Specialists: Big & Tall Stores
Specialty retailers are another fantastic resource because they live and breathe big and tall clothing. Stores like DXL are dedicated exclusively to extended sizes, so you can shop with confidence knowing everything will be available in your size. They carry a wide variety of trusted brands and have a deep understanding of how different shirts fit. DXL’s golf shop is a great place to see options from multiple labels in one place. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can provide expert advice to help you find exactly what you need.
Browse the Big Names: Online Marketplaces & Department Stores
If you value convenience and a massive selection, department stores and large online marketplaces are worth a look. While you might have to do a bit more searching to find the gems, these retailers offer a huge range of styles and price points. You can often find great deals on last season’s styles or browse multiple brands at once. For example, Kohl’s offers a wide selection of big and tall golf tops from various athletic and lifestyle brands, making it easy to compare your options without leaving home.
How to Care for Your Golf Shirts
You’ve invested in high-quality golf shirts that finally fit right, feel comfortable, and perform well on the course. The last thing you want is for them to shrink, stretch, or lose their moisture-wicking magic after a few washes. Taking proper care of your performance apparel isn’t complicated, but it does require a slightly different approach than washing your old cotton tees. Following a few simple steps will protect the fabric, maintain the fit, and keep your shirts looking and feeling great for years to come.
How to Wash and Dry Your Shirts
The key to washing performance fabrics is to be gentle. Before you toss your shirt in the machine, turn it inside out. This protects the outer surface from pilling and prevents logos from snagging or fading. Wash it on a gentle cycle with cold water and group it with other synthetic, lightweight fabrics. Avoid washing your golf shirts with heavy items like jeans or towels, as the friction can damage the delicate fibers. Go easy on the detergent—using too much can leave a residue that traps odors and hinders the fabric's performance. When it comes to drying, air drying is always the best option. High heat from a dryer can cause shrinkage and break down the spandex fibers that give your shirt its stretch.
Keep Your Gear Performing at Its Best
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with performance apparel is using fabric softener or dryer sheets. While they might make your cotton clothes feel soft, they leave a waxy coating on synthetic fabrics that clogs the very pores designed to wick away sweat. This residue essentially suffocates the material, destroying its moisture-wicking properties and trapping odor-causing bacteria. To keep your shirts breathing and pulling moisture away from your skin, skip the softeners entirely. It’s also a good idea to wash your shirt after each wear. This prevents body oils and sweat from building up and degrading the fabric over time, ensuring it performs at its best every time you wear it.
How to Store Shirts to Prevent Stretching
How you store your golf shirts is just as important as how you wash them. While it might be tempting to hang them up in your closet, this is often the fastest way to stretch out the shoulders and collar. The weight of the fabric, especially on a thin hanger, can pull the material downward over time, ruining the fit you worked so hard to find. The best way to store your polos is to fold them neatly and keep them in a drawer or on a shelf. If you absolutely must hang them, make sure you use wide, contoured hangers that support the entire shoulder area. This distributes the weight evenly and helps the shirt maintain its original shape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
I'm between sizes on a brand's chart. Should I size up or down? This is a common dilemma, and the best answer often depends on the brand's specific cut and your personal preference. As a general rule for golf, it's usually safer to size up. A shirt that's slightly too loose is much better than one that's too tight, which can restrict your swing and feel uncomfortable. Also, check the product description for clues—if it mentions an "athletic" or "slim" fit, sizing up is almost always the right call.
Why is a 'big & tall' specific brand better than just buying the largest size from a standard brand? The difference is in the design process. Standard brands often create their extended sizes by simply making a regular pattern wider and longer. This can result in a shirt with strange proportions, like shoulder seams that fall down your arms or a fit that's boxy and unflattering. A true big & tall brand designs its patterns from the ground up specifically for a larger frame, accounting for broader shoulders, a fuller torso, and the need for proper length. This thoughtful approach results in a much better, more comfortable fit that actually complements your body.
My performance shirts start to smell, even after I wash them. What am I doing wrong? You're not alone—this is a frequent issue with synthetic performance fabrics. The most common culprit is fabric softener, which clogs the material and traps odor-causing bacteria. The first step is to stop using it completely. If the smell persists, try pre-soaking your shirts for 30 minutes in a mixture of cold water and a cup of white vinegar before washing. This helps break down the buildup that regular detergent can't tackle, leaving your shirts fresh.
Is there a big difference between a $40 golf shirt and a $100 one? Yes, there's often a noticeable difference in the fabric and construction. While you can find great value under $50, a more expensive shirt typically uses more advanced, lightweight materials that feel softer and offer better breathability. Premium shirts also tend to have more durable stitching and hold their shape and color better over time. Think of it as an investment—if you play often, a higher-quality shirt will likely deliver better comfort and last much longer.
Can I wear these technical golf shirts for things other than golf? Absolutely. The same features that make these shirts great for the course make them incredibly versatile for everyday life. The moisture-wicking fabric is perfect for any warm day, the stretch material provides all-day comfort, and the classic polo style looks sharp enough for a casual office setting or a weekend barbecue. A good performance polo is a fantastic, multi-purpose piece for any man's wardrobe.
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