Okay, so I gotta talk about shorts. Golf shorts specifically. Because seriously, what do those Tour pros actually wear on TV all day without looking like a wrinkled mess or getting stuck in a weird stance? Got curious seeing these guys looking sharp shot after shot, figured they gotta be wearing some kinda magic pants. So, I went full science mode on finding the best PGA Tour style shorts.
Starting the Search
Jumped online first. Went down a rabbit hole, man. So many brands claim “Tour Inspired” or “Pro Worn.” It’s a jungle out there. Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Peter Millar, Greyson, Lululemon… the list went on. Couldn’t trust the ads, needed to feel this stuff. Off to the stores I went.
Getting Hands-On
Hauled a bunch into the fitting room. Looked like I robbed a golf shop. Tried ’em all on one by one. Focused on three things pros probably care about:
- How it feels swinging: Can I actually move my legs? Does the waist stab me when I bend?
- How it looks walking 18: Does it bunch? Does it wrinkle super easy? Does it breathe?
- How the pockets are: Can my phone fall out? Does it snag the club?
Here’s the mess I waded through:
- The Classics (Nike, Adidas, UA): These felt familiar. Lightweight, stretchy where it counts. The Nike Dri-FIT ones had that familiar sporty cut, kinda athletic. Adidas ones hugged just a bit. UA was comfy, felt reliable, but kinda… normal? Like good gym shorts that also golf. Saw tons of players wearing versions of these, makes sense.
- The “Luxury” Crew (Peter Millar, Greyson): Felt like a step up just touching them. Smoother, softer fabrics. Greysons were crazy light, felt almost like fancy pajamas, super drapey. Peter Millar Crown Crafted? Solid. Felt thicker, more substantial, like really nice pants disguised as shorts. But man, that price tag… oof. You pay for that polish.
- The Wildcard (Lululemon): Not a “golf” brand exactly, but man, their Commission shorts popped up enough in my research. Felt awesome. Seriously comfy. Like butter. Stretch was excellent. But the cut is very casual-business. Fine for golf, great for off the course, but maybe not that classic “pro” look? Also choked a little at checkout.
Putting Them Through the Wringer (Literally)
Bought a couple favorites (and winced at my bank account): A Nike pair, a Peter Millar Crown Crafted, and those dang Lululemons. Wore each for a full range session and a round. Here’s the real dirt:
- Nike: Felt good swinging. Light, no restrictions. Breathed well walking around. Held up okay after a round, slight wrinkles. Waistband kept me feeling secure. Basic, solid, does the job well. Saw a couple assistant pros wearing similar.
- Peter Millar: This felt premium. Looked sharp from tee to green, seriously minimal wrinkles. Felt durable too. Just a bit warmer than the others on a scorching day, the fabric is denser. Pockets were a little fussy – my phone felt snug getting in/out. Definitely looks and feels “pro,” you pay for it though.
- Lululemon: Okay, I get the hype. Most comfortable by a mile. Like wearing air. Stretch was unreal for any movement. Did a weird deep squat near a bush looking for a ball, no binding. Looked surprisingly sharp and modern. Sweat dried fast. But that price… and yeah, less traditional golf aesthetic. Kept fidgeting with the waistband tie thing.
The Big Takeaway?
No single “best” style. It totally depends. Want classic sporty feel? Nike/Adidas/UA nailed it. Want that polished, sharp look that holds up? Peter Millar/Greyson deliver (prepare your wallet). Want ultimate comfort and stretch? Lululemon is shockingly legit, if you can handle the price and the style shift.
My personal shock? Ended up grabbing more Lululemons later because they were just so dang comfy on and off the course. Still keep a pair of Peter Millars for when I wanna feel fancy. And yeah, got an old pair of Nike’s I still game when I’m not overthinking it. Pros wear all these types – it’s about finding what fits your own swing and wallet best. Happy hunting!
