Step onto any golf course today and you’ll likely see a sea of modern athleisure wear, moisture-wicking polo shirts, lightweight stretch pants, and performance-engineered shoes. But amid this contemporary uniformity, a distinctive silhouette occasionally catches the eye. A golfer sporting knee-length pants paired with long patterned socks, embodying a piece of the sport’s sartorial heritage.

Golf knickers, once the standard attire on courses worldwide, have evolved from necessary sportswear to stylistic choice, representing both a connection to golf’s rich past and a bold fashion statement in the present. Their enduring presence in golf culture speaks to the unique intersection of tradition, functionality, and personal expression that defines this centuries-old sport.

Key Takeaways

• Golf knickers originated in the late 19th century and were the standard golf attire until the 1930s
• Modern knickers combine traditional styling with contemporary performance fabrics and features
• Knickers provide excellent freedom of movement during the golf swing and protection from various weather conditions
• They’re experiencing a renaissance among golfers seeking to honor the sport’s heritage and stand out on the course
• Quality golf knickers typically range from $60-$200 depending on materials and craftsmanship

“There’s something about wearing plus fours that makes you swing more fluidly. It’s not just about looking the part—it changes how you feel about the game. When I put mine on, I’m connecting with every great player who came before me.”

— Payne Stewart, 1999 U.S. Open Champion, as told to Golf Digest in April 1998

Top Golf Knickers

Royal & Awesome Men’s Golf Knickers

Designed for purists, this wool-blend option offers timeless appeal paired with modern comfort. High-quality construction features reinforced stitching, genuine horn buttons, and an adjustable back strap for a custom fit. The naturally temperature-regulating wool blend also provides light water resistance and is available in classic shades like navy, brown, and gray herringbone.

BLESSUME Retro Colonial Renaissance Knicker Pants

Go all-in with this complete vintage-inspired outfit that includes stylish knickers, coordinating argyle socks, a cap, and a bow tie. Made from a breathable, moisture-wicking polyester blend with added stretch. These pants provide flexibility and comfort all day long. Over 20 vibrant color combinations ensure a standout look every time you hit the course.

Kings Cross Silk Touch Golf Knickers

Perfect for golfers who value both style and performance. These knickers are made from a soft, silk-touch fabric that feels luxurious while allowing for full mobility. The modern fit is balanced by classic details. Offering a polished look whether you’re teeing off or heading to the clubhouse.

The Rich History of Golf Knickers

Golf knickers trace their origins to the late 19th century, during golf’s rise in Scotland, England, and the U.S. Evolving from knickerbockers worn by hunters. These garments, known as “plus fours” for their four extra inches of fabric below the knee, offered both function and flair.

The Scottish climate demanded practical clothing for golf. Wool knickers provided warmth, mobility, and protection against wind and rain. Making them ideal for links courses. Unlike the restrictive trousers of the Victorian era, knickers allowed for a more athletic swing.

By the early 1900s, golf knickers had become the go-to attire for serious players. Royalty like the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) helped make them fashionable beyond the course. Golf legends such as Bobby Jones and Walter Hagen cemented their popularity by pairing knickers with argyle socks, tweed caps, and ties, creating an iconic golf look that combined sport and sophistication.

The 1920s marked the golden era of golf knickers. Players of all levels wore them, typically styled with high wool socks in argyle or cable-knit patterns. This ensemble became deeply embedded in golf’s visual identity. Showing up in ads, films, and tournament photos.

However, by the 1930s, knickers began to fall out of favor. The Great Depression, evolving fashion trends, and the growing preference for more relaxed trousers led to their decline. By the 1950s, slacks had become standard golf wear, signaling a shift toward a more casual approach to the sport.

The Materials and Construction of Traditional Knickers

Traditional golf knickers were primarily made from heavy wool fabrics, tweed, houndstooth, and herringbone patterns were particularly popular. These materials offered natural benefits that synthetic fabrics would later attempt to replicate: wool naturally repels water, maintains insulating properties when damp, and allows air circulation to prevent overheating.

The construction of classic knickers featured several distinctive elements:

1. Generous Cut: Unlike modern slim-fit clothing, knickers were cut with ample room through the seat and thighs to accommodate the full range of motion needed for a golf swing.
2. Fastening Systems: Before the widespread use of zippers, knickers typically featured button flies and often had additional buttons at the waistband for suspenders (braces).
3. Gathered Knee: The defining characteristic of knickers is their gathering at or just below the knee. Usually fastened with buttons or buckles that could be adjusted for comfort.
4. Reinforced Seams: Given the physical demands of golf, quality knickers featured double stitching at stress points and often included reinforced patches at the knees.
5. Substantial Pockets: Deep front and back pockets provided storage for golf tees, ball markers, and personal items. A practical necessity before the popularity of golf bags with numerous storage compartments.

The craftsmanship involved in creating well-made knickers was significant, with many golfers having their playing attire custom-made by tailors who understood the specific requirements of sporting clothes. This tradition of quality construction is something that premium manufacturers of modern golf knickers still emphasize today.

The Modern Renaissance of Golf Knickers

While knickers fell out of mainstream golf fashion for decades, they never completely disappeared. A small constituency of traditionalists and golf history enthusiasts kept the style alive. Often wearing them for special tournaments or at historic courses where their vintage aesthetic seemed particularly appropriate.

Beginning in the early 2000s, a renewed interest in golf’s traditions sparked a revival of vintage golf styles. Modern players like Payne Stewart became known for embracing the classic knicker look. Bringing it back into the public consciousness and inspiring a new generation of golfers to explore this distinctive attire. Stewart, who won three major championships while sporting his signature plus fours. Demonstrated that this traditional look could coexist with modern competitive golf at the highest levels.

Today’s golf knickers represent a blend of nostalgia and innovation. Contemporary manufacturers have reimagined these classic garments with modern performance fabrics, improved sizing options, and technical features that enhance comfort and functionality on the course. Moisture-wicking materials, UV protection, and stretch panels are now common features in premium golf knickers, offering the aesthetic of traditional golf wear with the performance benefits expected by today’s players.

The Appeal of Golf Knickers in Contemporary Play

For the modern golfer, choosing to wear knickers represents a deliberate style choice rather than conformity to standard dress codes. This decision often reflects several motivations:

Connection to Tradition

Many golfers are drawn to the rich history of the sport and see wearing knickers as a way to honor golf’s heritage. Playing in traditional attire can enhance the experience at historic venues like St. Andrews or Pinehurst, creating a feeling of participating in the continuing story of the game.

Distinctive Appearance

In an era where golf fashion has become increasingly homogenized, knickers offer a way to stand out on the course. For those who appreciate individual expression through clothing, knickers provide an opportunity to create a memorable and distinctive look that sets them apart from other players.

Practical Benefits

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, well-designed knickers offer practical advantages. The loose fit through the thighs and hips provides unrestricted movement during the swing, while the below-knee length eliminates excess fabric that might interfere with leg movement. The pairing with long socks also offers protection from elements like morning dew, rough grasses, and insects often encountered on golf courses.

Tournament and Event Wear

Many golfers reserve their knickers for special occasions, charity tournaments, member-guest events, or golf trips to prestigious courses. In these contexts, knickers can contribute to the celebratory atmosphere and mark the occasion as something distinct from regular weekend rounds.

Styling Modern Golf Knickers

Creating a cohesive golf outfit with knickers requires attention to the accompanying elements that complete the look. Contemporary styling typically includes:

Socks

The traditional choice is knee-length or over-the-calf socks, often with argyle, tartan, or solid patterns that coordinate with the knickers. These should rise high enough to meet the bottom of the knickers without leaving skin exposed during movement.

Shirts

Collared shirts remain the standard, though modern materials have replaced the heavy cotton of traditional golf attire. Many golfers pair knickers with classic solid-colored performance polos or, for a more authentic vintage look, button-down shirts.

Headwear

Flat caps (also known as ivy caps or driving caps) are the traditional complement to knickers, though modern interpretations may include structured baseball-style caps with vintage-inspired designs.

Footwear

While traditional golf shoes with kilties would complete an authentic vintage look, most players wearing knickers today opt for modern spikeless golf shoes that offer better traction and comfort.

Accessories

Bow ties, neckties, vests, and appropriately styled belts can enhance the traditional appearance. Some golfers embrace the full vintage aesthetic with suspenders (braces) instead of belts, particularly when wearing authentic wool knickers.

Caring for Golf Knickers

The longevity of golf knickers depends largely on proper care and maintenance, with requirements varying based on materials:

Wool and Wool Blends

Traditional wool knickers require careful handling to prevent shrinkage and maintain their shape. Dry cleaning is often recommended, though gentle hand washing with wool-specific detergent is possible for some garments. Storing wool knickers on proper hangers and using cedar blocks to deter moths will extend their lifespan.

Performance Fabrics

Modern synthetic knickers are generally easier to maintain, with machine-washable fabrics that resist wrinkling and dry quickly. Following the manufacturer’s care instructions will preserve performance features like water repellency and UV protection.

Fasteners and Details

Button flies, knee buckles, and other hardware should be checked regularly for security. Loose buttons should be reinforced before they detach, and adjustable features may need occasional maintenance to ensure proper function.

The Future of Golf Knickers

The sustained interest in golf knickers suggests they will continue to occupy a specialized but enduring position in golf attire. As the sport continues to balance tradition with innovation, knickers represent a tangible link to golf’s past while allowing for personal expression in the present.

Several trends indicate the potential trajectory for golf knickers:

1. Increased Customization: More manufacturers are offering made-to-measure options and extensive color choices, allowing golfers to create personalized knicker ensembles.
2. Technical Advancements: Continued incorporation of performance fabrics and features will make knickers more practical for regular play in various conditions.
3. Event-Specific Collections: Some golf apparel companies are creating limited-edition knicker collections tied to major tournaments or historic anniversaries in the sport.
4. Team Uniforms: At both collegiate and club levels, some teams are adopting knickers as part of their uniform for certain competitions, helping distinguish their players and create team identity.

As golf fashion continues to evolve, knickers stand as a reminder that sometimes the most distinctive style choices are those that respectfully reference the past while embracing the functional needs of the present.

Conclusion

Golf knickers occupy a unique position in the landscape of sports attire, simultaneously nostalgic and boldly distinctive. Their journey from standard equipment to specialty item reflects the broader evolution of golf from its origins as an exclusive pastime to its current status as a global sport with diverse participants and styles.

For the golfer who chooses to wear knickers today, the decision transcends mere fashion preference. It represents an appreciation for the sport’s rich heritage, a willingness to stand apart from conventional attire, and often a playful embrace of golf’s traditions. Whether worn for special occasions or as a regular part of one’s golfing wardrobe, knickers connect the modern player to generations of golfers who have shaped the game’s culture and character.

As golf continues to balance respect for tradition with adaptation to contemporary sensibilities, knickers serve as a visible reminder that sometimes the most meaningful innovations are those that thoughtfully reinterpret the best aspects of the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between golf knickers and plus fours?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically, “plus fours” refers specifically to knickers cut with four inches of extra fabric beyond the knee measurement, allowing them to hang or blouse over the top of the socks. Other variations include plus twos (two inches of extra fabric) and plus sixes (six inches of extra fabric). “Golf knickers” is a more general term that encompasses any knee-length pants designed for golf, regardless of the specific amount of extra fabric.

Are golf knickers practical for regular play?

Modern golf knickers can be quite practical, especially those made with contemporary performance fabrics. They offer excellent freedom of movement during the swing and protect the legs from elements commonly encountered on the course. Many golfers find them particularly comfortable in moderate temperatures when full-length pants might be too warm but shorts would provide insufficient coverage.

What socks should I wear with golf knickers?

Traditionally, golf knickers are paired with knee-length or over-the-calf socks that meet the bottom of the knickers without leaving skin exposed. Argyle patterns are classic choices, though solid colors that coordinate with your outfit are equally appropriate. In colder weather, wool socks provide warmth, while in warmer conditions, performance fabrics with moisture-wicking properties offer better comfort.

Do golf courses have specific rules about wearing knickers?

Most golf courses that maintain dress codes will readily accept knickers as appropriate golf attire, as they represent traditional golf wear. However, the accompanying elements should still conform to standard dress code requirements—collared shirts, appropriate socks, and proper golf shoes. Some very traditional private clubs might even view knickers more favorably than modern casual golf attire.

How should I size golf knickers for the proper fit?

Golf knickers should fit comfortably through the waist and seat, with enough room through the thighs to allow a full golf swing without restriction. The gathering at the knee should be snug enough to keep the knickers in place but not so tight as to be uncomfortable when walking or squatting to read a putt. When trying knickers, perform a few practice swings to ensure they provide adequate freedom of movement throughout your entire range of motion.