What is the Best Length for Golf Shorts?

As the game of golf evolves more into mainstream, so does golf fashion. Younger demographics are entering the sport along with a new wave of fashion-conscious golfers. As a result, we’ve seen some evolve into more modern fits and styles.

Men’s Golf Shorts traditionally have been in the 9 to 11 inch inseam range. These shorts would sit at knee length or even cover the knee entirely. As part of the modern styles entering the game, golf shorts have been getting shorter with many brands starting to offer shorter length golf shorts. In this article, we’ll explore what is the best length for golf shorts.

Best Golf Shorts Length Comparison by Inseam

Understanding Keys to Golf Short Length

There are 2 main variables that will ultimately make up the length of golf shorts:

Inseam Length: The inseam is the measurement that runs from the cuff of the short (bottom) to the crotch (where the front and back crotch seams meet). The inseam is essentially the length of the inner seam. The shorter the inseam, the shorter the short
Front and Back Rise: This will be the measurement of the front crotch and back butt seams. The shorter the front and back rise, the shorter the length of the shorts

Deciding on Length: Height & Personal Preference:

When deciding on the perfect length for golf shorts, there is a couple keys to consider:

Height: How tall are you? If you’re shorter, you’ll likely prefer a shorter inseam length for your shorts – consider a 5-inch or 7-inch inseam. If you are taller, your legs are longer and are likely better suited for a longer inseam between 7-inch and 10-inch.
Personal Style: Do you prefer your golf shorts to cover your knees? Or to sit above the knee – and if above the knee, by how much? While we aren’t here to dictate your style, we can tell you shorter length golf shorts are in for 2023.

What is the Best Length for golf shorts?

While there is many variables that should be considered when deciding on the best length for golf shorts, this chart provides a good general guide

Height	Golf Short Inseam Length
5’6 and Shorter	Between 5-7 inch inseam
5’7 – 6’	7-inch Inseam
6’ – 6’3	Between 7-9 inch inseam

In addition to finding the correct length, we’d suggest finding a good, tailored, slim-fit golf short.

Shown above. Avalon Men’s 7-inch Golf Shorts in Khaki

Golf Short: Things to Avoid

From a styling perspective, there is some things you will want to avoid when shopping for new golf shorts.

Baggy Shorts – It’s 2023, time for some fitted clothing. Ditch you old baggy length shorts and get into a nice pair of fitted, slim-fit golf shorts. Checkout brands like Avalon Golf or Bonobos for good, tailored, slim-fit golf shorts
Denim – The golden rule of thumb in golf goes without saying – NO DENIM! This holds especially true for shorts. Avoid denim shorts on the golf course
Cargo Shorts – While we’ve seen some manufacturers attempt cargo golf shorts, we’d suggest avoiding these at all costs. The extra pockets just aren’t needed and the cargo look is dated.
Long Shorts – From a styling perspective, we’d suggest it’s time to get rid of shorts that cover your knee. It just isn’t a good look!

Golf Course Dress Codes:

An important consideration when shopping for golf shorts is to consider where you play. Some private golf courses can have pretty strict dress codes that require shorts to sit no more than 1-inch above the knee while other course remain much more lax on their dress codes. We feel a good general guide is that shorts should sit below mid-thigh and no more than 3-inches above the top of your knee cap.

7-Inch Inseam is the Best Length for Golf Shorts:

Based on our research, golf shorts with a 7-inch inseam is the perfect length for most golfers. If you are 5’6 or shorter, or just would like to flex more thigh, then you may want to consider 5 or 6” inseam. 7-inch shorts will sit above the knee typically about 2-3 inches above the top of the knee cap and provide a flattering look. We do suggest to look for a slim-fit short to compliment this elegant length.

Where to Buy Good Golf Shorts?

Unfortunately, the mainstream brands have yet to see them catch on to modern lengths and fits in their golf short collections. Their shorts typically range from 8.5 to 11-inch inseam shorts are can often be found in your local pro-shops and at local golf retailers. For a better selection of men’s golf shorts, specialty brands that focus on more modern cuts can easily be found online. Check out our favorite store for 7-inch Golf Shorts for Men.

Choosing the Perfect Golf Shorts Length in 2023 Conclusion

We hope we’ve helped you in your decision making on finding the perfect length golf short and deciding specifically on what inseam length you should be focusing on. While there isn’t a one size fits all approach, we’re confident this guide can at least help point you on the right path the next time you’re shopping for golf shorts.