The back nine in July. You feel your shirt sticking, but the real misery starts below the waist. Heavy fabric, no breathability, and a 15-minute wait on every tee box. If that sounds familiar, you don’t need just any type of golf shorts; you need a technical short designed for heat survival.
I’ve spent the last few months sweating through rounds in 90°F weather to find the best golf shorts for hot weather that actually do the job.
The short answer? The Callaway Men’s 9″ Pro Spin Golf Shorts are my top pick. They hit the sweet spot of moisture-wicking, UPF 50 sun protection, stretch, and a price that doesn’t make you wince. But you’ve got options, and I’ll walk you through them honestly — what works, what doesn’t, and what’s a straight-up bad idea for a scorcher.
Best Golf Shorts for Hot Weather – At a Glance
Here’s a quick look at how each pair stacks up and who they’re for. This is your cheat sheet if you’re in a hurry.
What Makes a Golf Short Actually Cool?
Before I get into the nitty-gritty of each pair, you need a quick checklist. Not every short that says “performance” actually performs in sweltering heat. I learned this the hard way. Here’s what I looked at for every pair.
Fabric Science: Polyester vs. Cotton vs. Elasterell P
This is the biggest factor. Cotton feels great in the store, but on the course in July, it turns into a sponge. It holds sweat, gets heavy, and chafes. That’s why technical fabrics dominate. Polyester and Elasterell P (a fancy stretch polyester variant) are the gold standard. They’re hydrophobic, meaning they don’t absorb water. Instead, moisture is pulled to the surface where it evaporates. It’s the difference between feeling damped-out and feeling dry by the next tee box. Dupont Sorona, which you’ll see in the Callaway shorts, is a bio-based polyester that also breathes exceptionally well.
The Swamp Factor: Inseam & Fit
It’s not just about length, but it starts there. A longer inseam traps more heat around your legs. A 9-inch inseam is a solid middle ground for most guys – not too short, not a heat trap. A 7-inch inseam, like on the TRUE Linkswear, is cooler but can feel a bit radical if you’re used to a traditional look. Fit matters too. A baggy short flaps in the breeze, which is great for airflow, but a tailored fit that’s too tight can cling when you sweat. I look for a “performance” or “athletic” fit – slim enough to not get in the way during the swing, but not so tight that they restrict movement or trap sweat.
UPF 50: Not Just for Fair Skin
You’re wearing shorts, so your legs are getting direct sun. A UPF 50 rating blocks 98% of UV rays. It’s fire-and-forget sun protection. I’m not fair-skinned, but I’ve had sunburns on the backs of my legs from a long round. It’s miserable. UPF is a non-negotiable feature for any short I’d call a “hot weather” performer.
The Best Golf Shorts for Hot Weather – Tested & Compared
I’ll break down each pair honestly. Not everything that glitters is gold, and some “premium” products are a trap for this specific need. I’ve ranked them from the best all-arounder to the most questionable pick.
1. Callaway Men’s 9″ Pro Spin Golf Shorts – The Clear Winner for Heat
Key Specs (Quick Look):
- Fabric: 80% Polyester, 20% Elasterell P
- Inseam: 9″
- Extras: Active Waistband, Opti-Dri, UPF 50
- Fit: Performance / Athletic
This is it. This is the pair I reach for every single time the temperature climbs past 85°F. The first thing I noticed was the fabric. It’s not just moisture-wicking in the marketing sense – the Opti-Dri technology really does pull sweat off your skin and spread it out to dry fast. I’m talking about getting back in the cart after a walk up a hill and not feeling that cold, clammy fabric stuck to my legs.
The waistband is another highlight. It stretches up to two inches, which is huge for the golf swing. You don’t feel any binding when you rotate. And it grips your shirt fabric to keep it tucked in – a small thing, but it keeps you looking sharp and prevents that sweaty shirt from bunching up. The UPF 50 sun protection is the cherry on top. On a three-hour round under direct sun, I never felt that familiar sting on the back of my legs.
Honesty Check (Weakness): The 9-inch inseam is shorter than some traditional golf shorts. If you’re used to a knee-length, conservative look that falls below the kneecap, these might feel a bit modern. I wouldn’t call them short, but they’re definitely on the shorter side of standard. If you’re over 6’2” and prefer a longer cut, you might find them riding up a bit in the cart. Also, they’re not a style-first short – they look like performance gear, not a tailored chino.
Who it’s for: Any golfer who prioritizes staying dry and cool above everything else. If you sweat heavily, this is your short. It’s hands-down the best golf shorts for hot weather I’ve tested.
2. TRUE Linkswear Golf & Leisure Swim Short – The Hybrid Option
Key Specs (Quick Look):
- Fabric: 100% RPET Recycled Polyester
- Inseam: 7″
- Extras: DWR Coated, Quick-Drying, Mesh Lining
- Fit: Relaxed / Swim Short
These shorts are a different animal. They’re literally built like swim trunks, with a mesh liner and a water-repellent coating. The idea is you can wear them from the course to the pool to dinner. For hot weather golf, the benefit is raw breathability. The mesh lining means air circulates freely, even when you’re sitting in a cart. I wore them on a particularly humid day and it felt like I was wearing nothing at all – in a good way. The 4-way mechanical stretch is real and allowed for a full, unrestricted swing.
Honesty Check (Weakness): The 7-inch inseam is short. If you have muscular thighs or you’re not comfortable showing a lot of leg, this might not be your vibe. More importantly, there’s no UPF rating listed. For a hot weather short, that’s a significant miss. The fabric is recycled polyester, which is great for the planet, but it’s not inherently UV-blocking unless treated. I’d rely on sunscreen with these. Also, they’re new to the market with no reviews yet, so there’s a bit of a gamble on long-term durability.
Who it’s for: The golfer who values extreme versatility and maximum airflow. If you play quick rounds, often go from course to a pool or beach, and don’t mind a shorter cut, these are a solid pick. But don’t expect the sun protection of the Callaways.
3. G Gradual Men’s Shorts 11″ – The Budget Staple
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Key Specs (Quick Look):
- Fabric: Moisture-wicking (material unspecified)
- Inseam: 11″
- Extras: Side-zip pocket, expandable waistband
- Fit: Slim / Sleek
These are the backup option. If you’re on a tight budget and you absolutely need an 11-inch inseam for comfort or dress code reasons, these will work. The moisture-wicking fabric does keep you drier than cotton, and the side-zip pocket is a nice touch for security – your phone won’t fly out when you’re reaching for a ball in the rough. The expandable waistband is also comfortable for the swing.
Honesty Check (Weakness): The brand is basically unknown, and with only a handful of reviews, it’s a leap of faith. The fabric feels a bit stiff out of the package, and after a few washes, I noticed a slight pilling on the back of the leg – not what you want. The “sleek silhouette” is more like a baggy athletic cut, so if you’re looking for a sharp, tailored look, these aren’t it. And again, no UPF rating. For a hot weather short, that’s a knock.
Who it’s for: The casual golfer who needs a longer inseam on a very tight budget. They’ll keep you cool enough for a nine-hole round, but I wouldn’t trust them for a long, sweaty day. The Callaway is a much better value for a little more money.
4. Bonobos Mens Slim – The Premium Option (With a Warning)
Key Specs (Quick Look):
- Fabric: 98% Cotton, 2% Lycra
- Inseam: Not listed (standard slim fit)
- Extras: None for heat performance
- Fit: Tailored Slim
I need to be honest here. This short is a style icon, and it looks fantastic on the course. The slim fit, the clean lines, the way it drapes – it’s a premium piece of clothing. But for the specific purpose of beating the heat, it fails. The problem is 98% cotton. Cotton soaks up moisture like a paper towel. On a hot day, within two holes, these things get heavy, clingy, and slow to dry. The 2% Lycra adds stretch, which is nice for the swing, but it doesn’t fix the fundamental heat problem.
Honesty Check (Critical): This does not belong on a “best for hot weather” list if we’re being genuine with the reader. It’s a great short for a moderate day, or for pairing with a blazer at a club event. But for the back nine in July? No way. The price is also significantly higher than the performance-focused options. If you sweat at all, or if the heat is high, skip these. Your legs will thank you.
Who it’s for: The golfer who prioritizes style above everything else and plays in mild conditions. If you’re looking for a premium look and feel, and you don’t sweat much, these are fine. But for a hot weather test, they’re the wrong tool for the job.
5. PETER MILLAR Men’s Crown Crafted Surge Performance Short 38 – The Incomplete Data Set
Key Specs (Quick Look):
- Fabric: “Performance Shorts” (material unspecified)
- Inseam: Not listed
- Extras: None listed
- Fit: Likely tailored (based on brand)
I’m including this because it’s in the data, but honestly, it’s a wild card. The price is very low, which is tempting, but there’s almost no information to go on. The product title is “Performance Shorts” – that could mean anything from a moisture-wicking technical fabric to a basic stretch cotton blend. There are no reviews, no material composition listed, and no rating. The Peter Millar brand generally makes nice clothes, but the “Surge” line is known more for stretch than for heat management.
Honesty Check (Weakness): This is a gamble. For hot weather, I can’t recommend it based on the information available. Without knowing the fabric, the UPF rating, or the inseam, it’s impossible to say if it will keep you cool. The lack of any detail is a red flag. If you’re on a very tight budget and you want to try your luck, go for it. But you’re likely better off spending a tiny bit more on the G Gradual or saving for the Callaway.
Who it’s for: The true budget gambler who doesn’t mind the risk. Not recommended for someone who wants a reliable, cool day on the course.
Comparison Table
| Product | Editorial Rating | Inseam | Key Heat Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Callaway Pro Spin 9″ | 4.8/5 | 9″ | UPF 50, Opti-Dri, Active Waistband | Best Overall |
| TRUE Linkswear Swim Short | 4.2/5 | 7″ | Mesh lining, DWR, Quick-dry | Best Versatility |
| G Gradual 11″ | 3.5/5 | 11″ | Moisture-wicking, Side-zip pocket | Best Budget / Long Inseam |
| Bonobos Slim | 2.8/5 | Standard | Style (not heat) | Best Style (mild conditions) |
| Peter Millar Surge 38 | 2.0/5 | Not listed | Unknown | Cheapest / Gamble |
Your Perfect Pair for the Heat
Look, I’m not going to tell you that every short on this list is a home run. Some are, and some aren’t. If you want to survive the back nine in July, buy the Callaway Pro Spin. The UPF 50, moisture-wicking, and active waistband are a perfect storm for hot weather. It’s the best-performing short in the lineup, and the price is a steal. If you play a ‘golf and then a dip’ lifestyle, the TRUE Linkswear is your go-to for maximum breathability, just make sure you wear sunscreen. Skip the cotton shorts (Bonobos) for the course – they’re great for looking sharp at a casual lunch, but they’ll turn into a soggy mess in the heat. And the Peter Millar? Unless you’re feeling lucky, save your money for something proven.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inseam length is best for hot weather golf?
A 9-inch inseam is the best balance for most golfers. It’s short enough to keep you cool and prevent fabric from clinging to your legs, but long enough to look appropriate at most courses. A 7-inch inseam, like on the TRUE Linkswear, is cooler but may look too casual for some dress codes. An 11-inch or longer inseam can trap more heat.
Are cotton golf shorts ever okay for hot weather?
In my experience, no. Cotton absorbs sweat and holds onto it, making the fabric heavy, damp, and prone to chafing. For hot weather, stick with technical fabrics like polyester, nylon, or blends like Elasterell P. They pull moisture away from your skin and dry much faster.
Do I really need UPF protection in golf shorts?
Yes, if you’re playing when the sun is out. You’re exposing your legs directly to UV rays for four-plus hours. A UPF 50 rating blocks 98% of UV radiation. It’s a simple, passive way to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The Callaway Pro Spin shorts have it built-in, which is a huge advantage.
Can I wear a swim trunk as a golf short?
You can, but it depends on the course’s dress code. The TRUE Linkswear Swim Short is designed for this, with a more tailored look than standard swim trunks and a DWR coating. However, the 7-inch inseam is very short, and the lack of a UPF rating means you need to be diligent with sunscreen. It’s best for casual rounds or courses with relaxed dress codes.
What’s the best budget option for hot weather golf?
The G Gradual 11” short is the most affordable option in this test. It offers moisture-wicking fabric and a longer inseam for a low price.
However, the build quality is not as high as the Callaways, and you’re taking a risk on an unknown brand. If you can stretch your budget, the Callaway is a much better value for performance and durability.