Golf's rigid dress codes seem stuck in the days of plaids and polos. While some rules remain necessary, others arbitrarily exclude apparel that poses no threat to play. If the sport aims to expand its appeal, it's time to reconsider outdated clothing bans.
Policies prohibiting offensive or tattered garments make sense. But allowing tailored jeans, athletic shoes, and clean untucked shirts would bring codes up-to-date with real golf attire.
Banning tank tops unfairly targets women, while men can shed sleeves without issue. And gauging lengths of skirts and shorts based on highly subjective "appropriate" measures sends the wrong message about policing women's bodies.
Some defend these rules as maintaining decorum and honoring tradition. But what players wear doesn't impact their character or abilities. Plus golf's origins as a pastime for only the elite need updating to reflect today's broader accessibility.
Change won't happen overnight at many private establishments. But public courses can lead in welcoming all players regardless of their attire. Because unlike clubs and balls, clothes have no bearing on the game.
The sport flourishes when participation expands. Relaxing outdated dress codes is one small step toward building a more inclusive game in 2024 and beyond.