8 Best Golf Shorts for Big Guys 2026

If you’re a larger guy who’s tired of golf shorts that pinch, bind, or pop a button mid-swing, the PGA TOUR Expandable Waistband short is a revelation. The hidden elastic waistband expands up to 4 inches, delivering a custom-like fit without sacrificing a clean, polished look. Combined with mechanical four-way stretch and UPF sun protection, these shorts tackle two major pain points for big men: comfort and coverage. Whether you’re walking 18 holes or sitting in a golf cart under midday sun, they stay put and keep you cool—literally and figuratively.

In real-world testing, these shorts handled heat, humidity, and aggressive swings with ease. The moisture-wicking fabric actively pulls sweat away, preventing that sticky, damp feeling common in heavier polyester blends. On a 90°F course with 70% humidity, they stayed breathable and dry after 4 hours of play. The classic fit offers extra room in the thigh, ideal for muscular or broader builds, and the flat front ensures a sharp appearance even when untucked. However, the lack of a zipper pocket means small items like tees or coins can slip out during a swing—minor but noticeable.

Compared to the Amazon Essentials or IZOD options, the PGA TOUR short stands out for adaptive fit technology—a game-changer for big guys with fluctuating waistlines. While IZOD’s Swingflex offers modest stretch, it only expands 1 inch, making PGA TOUR’s 4-inch expansion far more accommodating. It’s the ideal pick for golfers who prioritize flexibility and long-wear comfort over premium styling. For performance and practicality, it outclasses budget models while avoiding the overbuilt complexity of high-pocket designs like Shallowlulu’s.

When storage, sun defense, and serious stretch come first, the Shallowlulu 6-pocket golf shorts are a powerhouse for big guys who live an active lifestyle. The UPF 50+ fabric blocks nearly all harmful UV rays, while the 4-way stretch quick-dry material ensures you stay cool and dry even during extended play in sweltering conditions. What truly sets these apart is the smart storage system—including a hidden zip pocket for AirPods and tees, and a thigh zipper for valuables—which turns these into true multi-sport hybrids. If you hate carrying a bag but need to keep everything on hand, these shorts deliver.

On the course, they performed flawlessly in both dry and light drizzle thanks to the PFC-free water-repellent coating, which shed moisture without that crinkly, plasticky feel. The flex waistband accommodated a post-lunch expansion without discomfort, and the 7”/10” inseam options let taller or larger men avoid the awkward mid-thigh look. During a full 18-hole round with walking, the fabric retained its shape and resisted wrinkles—no ironing needed post-round. The only hiccup? The snap back pockets feel slightly stiff at first and can snag on shirt fabric.

Against the PULI or CRZ YOGA models, Shallowlulu wins on functionality and versatility, but sacrifices a bit of minimalist elegance. While CRZ YOGA focuses on featherlight comfort, Shallowlulu embraces utility—perfect for golfers who also hike, travel, or work outdoors. It’s the best choice for big men who want one pair of shorts to dominate golf, errands, and weekend adventures. Compared to the Under Armour Tech model, it offers more storage and better sun protection at a similar price point, though with slightly bulkier styling.

Don’t let the low price fool you—the adidas Men’s Golf Short packs surprising performance into a no-frills, budget-friendly silhouette that big guys can actually move in. The thin, four-way stretch fabric delivers freedom of motion essential for a fluid golf swing, while the moisture-wicking construction keeps you dry during hot rounds. With a clean 3-bar logo and flat-front design, these shorts look sharper than their price suggests—ideal for golfers who want reliable basics without paying premium branding taxes. They solve the “cheap short” dilemma: flimsy fabric and zero stretch.

In real-world use, they held up well during 9-hole weekend games and casual wear, though the lightweight material feels more like gym shorts than premium golf attire. The lack of a secure pocket means phones or wallets can slip out easily, and the fabric offers no sun protection—risky for long days on the course. Still, the four-way stretch allows a full range of motion, and the regular fit accommodates larger thighs without tightness. They’re best for casual players who prioritize mobility and value over durability or technical features.

Compared to the Amazon Essentials or IZOD models, the adidas short is more athletic but less refined. It lacks the shirt-gripping waistband or UV protection found in others, but it’s lighter and more flexible than the IZOD Swingflex. It’s the go-to for big guys on a tight budget who still want athletic performance. While the Under Armour Tech offers faster drying and better fabric quality, this adidas model holds its own as the most affordable stretch option with brand credibility.

When sweat is your biggest enemy, the Under Armour Tech Golf Shorts are your secret weapon—engineered for maximum breathability and rapid drying in high-heat conditions. The 4-way stretch woven fabric is both light and tough, resisting snags while allowing full hip rotation on every downswing. But the real star is the sweat-wicking material that pulls moisture to the surface and evaporates it fast—after a sweaty back nine, these felt dry 50% quicker than standard polyester blends. For big guys who run hot, these are a climate-controlled solution for staying composed on the course.

We tested them on a 36-hole day with temps over 95°F, and the 10-inch inseam provided ample coverage without overheating. The flat-front design and four-pocket layout keep things tidy, though the lack of a zipper pocket means small items are at risk. The fabric resists odor better than most, thanks to UA’s anti-microbial treatment, a subtle but welcome perk for multi-day wear. They’re not the most stylish, but they’re built for performance-first golfers who care more about function than flair.

Pitted against the PGA TOUR expandable model, the UA Tech shorts offer superior moisture management but fall short on waist flexibility—no expandable band here. Compared to the IZOD Swingflex, they dry faster and stretch more, but lack UV protection. They’re best for larger players who prioritize dryness and mobility over sun defense or adaptive fit. For hot-weather performance, they deliver better technical fabric benefits than any other model under $40.

Style and substance converge in the IZOD Swingflex Golf Shorts, a standout for big guys who want to look sharp without sacrificing comfort. The UV-50 sun protection is a rare and valuable feature, shielding your legs during long rounds under relentless sun—no need for extra sunscreen on covered skin. Paired with the Swingflex stretch fabric and 1-inch extendable Sportflex waistband, these shorts offer subtle flexibility and a clean, tailored appearance that transitions seamlessly from course to casual lunch. For the stylish big man, they deliver refined versatility without compromising performance.

On the course, the 9.5-inch inseam strikes the perfect balance—long enough for coverage, short enough for airflow. The fabric resists wrinkles beautifully, so you can toss them in a suitcase and wear them straight out. Moisture-wicking works well in moderate heat, though they don’t dry as fast as Under Armour or Shallowlulu models. The straight-leg cut flatters larger builds, and the zip closure feels secure. However, the one-inch waist expansion is modest compared to PGA TOUR’s 4-inch stretch—tighter for larger waist fluctuations.

Against the Amazon Essentials or adidas models, IZOD wins on aesthetic polish and sun defense, but costs more and offers less stretch. It’s the ideal middle ground between office-ready style and golf-course function. For big guys who play in the sun and care about presentation, these offer better UV protection and smarter design than budget picks. While not as flexible as PGA TOUR’s model, they’re the top choice for golfers who value sun safety and timeless looks.

The Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Stretch Golf Shorts are the dark horse of value—delivering all-day comfort, thoughtful design, and big & tall inclusivity at an unbeatable price. The shirt-gripping waistband is a small but brilliant touch, keeping your polo neatly tucked even during aggressive swings—a rare feature in budget shorts. With moisture-wicking, wrinkle-free fabric and a roomy classic fit, they cater perfectly to larger frames that need space through the hip and thigh. For big guys seeking no-nonsense, reliable performance, these are a quiet overachiever.

In real-world use, they handled 18 holes with ease—staying cool, resisting wrinkles, and maintaining shape. The 9-inch inseam offers balanced coverage, and the fifth tee pocket is both practical and nostalgic. They’re machine-wash durable, emerging unscathed after multiple cycles. However, the fabric lacks sun protection and the stretch, while present, isn’t as dynamic as Under Armour or Shallowlulu. They’re best for casual golfers who want comfort and simplicity without frills.

Compared to the adidas model, Amazon Essentials offers better fit, a smarter waistband, and more thoughtful details—making it the true best overall budget option. While it doesn’t match Shallowlulu’s storage or IZOD’s UV defense, it strikes the best balance of comfort, function, and price. For big guys who want one dependable pair of shorts that work on the course, at brunch, or on vacation, these deliver more value than any other model in the lineup.

If your golf game doubles as a walking meditation, the CRZ YOGA All Day Comfy Shorts are built for effortless, lightweight comfort from first tee to final putt. The 7-inch inseam and featherlight fabric make these feel like lounge wear, yet they hold a clean, flat-front look suitable for club settings. With fast-drying, wrinkle-resistant material and decent 4-way stretch, they move with you—ideal for big guys who prioritize unrestricted ease over technical features. They solve the stiffness problem common in structured golf shorts, replacing it with cloud-like wearability.

Tested on a slow, hot round with lots of walking, they stayed cool and didn’t cling, even during midday heat. The hidden zipper pocket is a welcome upgrade over basic models, securing keys or cash without bulk. Two side and two back pockets handle everyday carry, though they’re not as deep as Shallowlulu’s. The fabric resists odors well and retains shape after washing. However, they offer zero sun protection and the waistband, while stretchy, lacks expandable give—tight for bloating or larger stomachs.

Against the PULI or Amazon Essentials models, CRZ YOGA wins on lightness and comfort, but falls short on utility and UV defense. It’s not the best for storage or sun exposure, but for big men who want maximum breathability and minimal fuss, these are unmatched. Compared to the adidas shorts, they feel more premium and better designed, though at a higher cost. For golfers who value softness and ease, they offer superior comfort over performance-focused rivals.

Tailored for larger frames, the PULI Big and Tall Golf Shorts are a true fit-first solution for big guys who’ve struggled to find shorts that actually accommodate their size. The Polyamide blend delivers a rare combo: lightweight breathability, water resistance, and UV protection—all in a cut designed for broad hips and longer torsos. With a 10-inch inseam and stretchy waistband, they offer full coverage and flexibility, eliminating the dreaded “shorts ride-up” during swings. For big and tall golfers, these are a long-overdue win in inclusive sizing and performance.

On humid days, the quick-dry fabric handled sweat impressively, and the zippered pockets kept essentials secure—no lost rangefinders or phones. The 5-pocket layout balances utility and clean lines, and the khaki finish resists dirt well. They’re machine-wash friendly and held shape after repeated use. However, the water resistance isn’t for heavy rain, and the fabric, while stretchy, doesn’t have the dynamic recovery of Under Armour or Shallowlulu.

Compared to the Amazon Essentials Big & Tall model, PULI offers better protection and storage, though at a slightly higher price. It lacks the shirt-gripping waistband but makes up for it with superior sun and weather defense. For larger men who play in variable conditions, these deliver more coverage and security than most. While not as stylish as IZOD, they’re the best dedicated big & tall performer in the lineup.