8 Best Women’s Golf Shorts of 2026

These SANTINY 5″ golf shorts deliver a masterclass in all-day comfort and functional elegance, making them a top pick for women who demand both performance and polish on the course. The quick-dry, 4-way stretch fabric breathes exceptionally well, wicking sweat during humid rounds while resisting wrinkles—so you stay cool and composed from tee to green. With a 5-inch inseam and split-side design, they offer a flattering silhouette and unrestricted swing, solving the age-old golf short dilemma of looking sharp without sacrificing mobility.

In real-world testing across 18-hole rounds and weekend hikes, these shorts proved remarkably versatile and dependable. The elastic waistband with belt loops ensures a snug yet forgiving fit, especially welcome during long days on uneven terrain. Deep front and rear pockets securely hold a phone, golf balls, and keys—no bouncing or bulkiness—even during aggressive swings or brisk walks. While not fully waterproof, the woven fabric resists light moisture and breezes, though it lacks UPF sun protection, which could be a drawback for extended sun exposure.

Compared to the IUGA and Willit models, the SANTINY strikes a sweet balance between simplicity and performance, ideal for golfers who value clean lines and no-frills functionality. It doesn’t boast zippered pockets or UPF ratings, but its wrinkle-resistant, professional aesthetic sets it apart for players who transition from course to casual outings. While the Willit 7″ offers more tech features, the SANTINY wins on understated versatility and comfort, making it a strong contender for players who prioritize elegant ease over gadget-heavy design.

The Willit 4.5” golf shorts are a revelation for women seeking ultra-lightweight performance with serious sun defense—a rare combo in entry-level golf apparel. These shorts shine with UPF 50+ protection and a DWR-treated, breathable fabric that shrugs off sweat and light rain, making them ideal for scorching midday rounds or sudden summer showers. The 4.5-inch inseam delivers a sporty, modern look while maximizing airflow, a godsend for players who hate overheating but still want coverage.

During testing on sun-drenched courses and trail walks, these shorts stayed dry, cool, and chafe-free, even after three-hour rounds. The five-pocket layout—including a secure zippered pocket—keeps essentials like rangefinders, tees, and cash safely tucked, while the snap-and-button closure stays locked without digging in. However, the shorter inseam may feel too brief for players who prefer modest coverage, and the fabric, while breathable, offers minimal wind resistance on breezy days.

Pitted against the Oalka budget model, the Willit 4.5” outperforms with technical superiority and sun-safe confidence. It’s not as long or rugged as the 10” Willit cargo version, but it strikes a perfect middle ground for hot-weather agility and protection. Best suited for golfers in high-sun climates or multi-sport adventurers, these shorts pack premium features into a streamlined silhouette, outclassing simpler designs in both safety and storage.

The G Gradual 5” golf shorts are a smart, balanced performer that punches above its weight in the mid-tier golf apparel game. Designed with a lightweight, modestly stretchy fabric, they offer just enough give for a full backswing without sagging or bagging out over time—ideal for players tired of flimsy, see-through shorts. The 5-inch inseam and clean front design deliver a polished, mid-thigh look that transitions effortlessly from fairway to café, solving the “too sporty, too casual” wardrobe clash.

In real-world wear, these shorts proved surprisingly durable and flattering, with a tailored fit that hugs the hips without squeezing. The slant front pockets and single back pocket are functional for small items, though the lack of a zippered closure means keys or cards can slip out during aggressive swings. The elastic waistband with snap closure stays secure and comfortable, even after hours of walking, but the fabric isn’t UPF-rated, leaving sun protection to your sunscreen.

Compared to the IZOD classic style, the G Gradual offers better pocket utility and a more performance-oriented build, while costing only slightly more. It doesn’t match the Willit’s sun protection or pocket count, but it delivers excellent value for golfers who want style, modest stretch, and everyday wearability. For players seeking a no-nonsense, mid-range short that won’t break the bank or look out of place, these justify every penny of their premium-feel quality.

The IZOD Performance Stretch golf shorts are the epitome of timeless golf style, blending classic American prep with modern comfort in a way few brands can match. These bright white, elastic-waist shorts offer a flattering, universally comfortable fit that suits a wide range of body types, making them a go-to for players who want to look sharp without fuss. The moisture-wicking, stretch-blend fabric moves with you, ensuring smooth swings and all-day ease, while the clean solid color pairs effortlessly with any polo or golf top.

On the course, these shorts excel in comfort and aesthetics, especially in cooler or shaded conditions where sun protection is less critical. The elastic waistband eliminates pressure points, ideal for players who dislike buttons or zippers digging in during seated rests. However, they lack deep or secure pockets, making them less ideal for carrying tees, balls, or a phone—items tend to shift or fall out during active play. The fabric is not UPF-rated, so extended sun exposure requires extra protection.

When compared to the G Gradual or Willit models, the IZOD sacrifices utility for elegance, positioning itself as the best choice for style-conscious golfers who play shorter rounds or prioritize post-game brunch looks. It’s not built for hikers or all-day adventurers, but for players who value a crisp, classic golf aesthetic, these shorts outshine flashier, tech-heavy rivals with their effortless sophistication and inclusive fit.

The Oalka 8” Bermuda golf shorts are a budget-savvy sleeper hit, offering unexpected comfort and coverage at a price that undercuts nearly every competitor. With an 8-inch inseam, these knee-length shorts provide maximum thigh coverage, a boon for players who dislike chafing or want a more conservative, work-appropriate look. The ponte knit fabric is stretchy, wrinkle-resistant, and surprisingly cool, maintaining its shape even after multiple wears and washes—rare at this price point.

In real-world use, the soft elastic waistband proved gentle on the midsection, making these ideal for players with sensitivities to tight waistbands. The deep front pockets easily fit a large smartphone, and the fashionable faux fly and belt loops add a tailored touch without sacrificing ease of wear. However, the lack of functional pockets or moisture-wicking tech limits their appeal for serious golfers, and the fabric isn’t breathable enough for hot, humid rounds.

Stacked against the Willit or IUGA models, the Oalka trades performance features for affordability and modesty, making it a solid pick for occasional players, walkers, or office-to-course commuters. While it doesn’t offer UPF, quick-dry fabric, or zippered security, it delivers reliable, no-frills comfort for light use. For budget-focused shoppers who want knee-length coverage and daily versatility, these shorts offer unbeatable value without looking cheap.

The Willit 7” Golf Hiking Shorts are the undisputed champion of all-around performance, earning their title as the Best Overall with a perfect fusion of tech, comfort, and versatility. Built with quick-drying nylon-spandex and a DWR finish, they repel sweat and light rain like a pro, while the UPF 50+ rating shields skin during marathon rounds under open sun. The 7-inch inseam hits the sweet spot—long enough for coverage, short enough for breathability—making them ideal for all-day wear across golf, travel, and trail hikes.

During rigorous testing, these shorts remained dry, odor-free, and flexible, even after 18 holes in 90°F heat. The five-pocket system—including a zippered security pocket—kept essentials locked in, and the snap-and-button closure stayed secure without pinching. The regular fit allows airflow, though those with slim hips may find it slightly loose—sizing down or up per the chart is key. Only minor wrinkles appeared after sitting, but they shook out fast.

Compared to the SANTINY and IZOD models, the Willit 7” dominates with superior sun protection, storage, and fabric durability. It’s pricier than the Oalka, but the feature gap justifies the cost for serious players. For golfers who play often, travel frequently, or demand maximum functionality, these shorts deliver premium performance without sacrificing style, outperforming rivals in protection, pockets, and real-world resilience.

The Willit 10” Hiking Cargo Shorts are engineered for maximum sun defense and storage, making them the ultimate choice for players in blazing climates or those who play long, off-course adventures. With UPF 50+ fabric and a 10-inch inseam, they cover more skin than any other model, reducing sunburn risk while staying cool thanks to 4-way stretch and breathable weave. The cargo pocket design—featuring zippered and hook-and-loop closures—offers unmatched organization for tees, sunscreen, or a trail map, ideal for golfers who double as hikers.

In extended wear tests, these shorts excelled in protection and utility, especially on desert courses and lakeside walks. The part-elastic waistband with belt loops ensures a custom fit, and the button-zip fly stays secure during dynamic movement. However, the length can feel bulky during fast swings, and the cargo pockets add weight, making them less ideal for players seeking a sleek, minimalist look. They also run snug at the waist, so sizing up is often necessary.

Against the 7” Willit model, these offer more coverage and storage but less agility and style. They’re not the best for fashion-first golfers, but for sun-sensitive players, outdoor enthusiasts, or those needing serious pocket space, these deliver unmatched utility and safety. While heavier than competitors, their combination of protection, pockets, and durability makes them the most functional option for extreme conditions.

The IUGA 5” Hiking Golf Shorts are a pocket-packed powerhouse, designed for golfers who refuse to choose between utility and style. With UPF 50+ protection and 4-way stretch fabric, they offer serious sun defense and full-range mobility, keeping you cool and shielded even during midday summer rounds. The five utility pockets—including a zippered security pocket—are thoughtfully placed, with deep side cargo pockets perfect for gloves, balls, or a rangefinder, freeing your hands for every swing.

Real-world testing revealed exceptional breathability and anti-ride-up performance, thanks to the side-split hem design that stays put during aggressive swings or steep trail climbs. The elastic waistband with tummy control delivers a flattering fit, and the zip fly with button adds a touch of polish. However, the cargo bulk may not appeal to minimalist dressers, and the fabric, while quick-dry, wrinkles more than woven alternatives after sitting.

Compared to the G Gradual and SANTINY models, the IUGA wins on pocket count and sun protection, though it sacrifices some sleekness. It’s not as light as the 4.5” Willit, but for players who carry gear, hike after golf, or want maximum UV defense, these shorts deliver unmatched functionality in a stylish package. With smart design and rugged readiness, they outperform most in storage and protection, making them ideal for active, on-the-go women.