The Great Golf Short Debate: What Inseam Should Golf Shorts be?
We are seeing modern trends take over in golf and along with this is the introduction of shorter inseam golf shorts. Traditionally 9-inch to 11-inch golf shorts were the norm. These longer length shorts, although great for traditional demographics, didn’t cater to the new fashion-conscious golf crowds. In this article, we set our to help readers decide on what is the perfect length in golf shorts for men.
Golf Shorts Comparison by Inseam Length (© Avalon Golf Co, 2024)
The Basics: How to Measure Shorts Inseam
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. Additional factors to be considered include the front rise and back rise lengths (as these can add to the overall length of the shorts)
How to Measure Golf Shorts Inseam (© Avalon Golf Co, 2024)
Height & Golf Short Preference:
A couple variables come into play when deciding on the perfect length for golf shorts. The first being 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 golf short. If you are taller, your legs are longer and are likely better suited for a longer inseam such as 9-inch golf short.
The other consideration here if 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 2024.
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 – 5’10’ | 7-inch Inseam |
| 5’11’ – 6’3 | 9 inch inseam |
In addition to finding the correct length, we’d suggest finding a good, tailored, slim-fit golf short like these Men’s Performance 7 Inch Golf Shorts
Shown above. Avalon Men’s Golf Shorts in Khaki (© Avalon Golf Co, 2024)
Golf Short Fashion Faux Pas:
From a styling perspective, there is some things you will want to avoid when shopping for new golf shorts.
- Baggy Shorts – It’s 2024, 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 quality short length 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!
The other consideration here if 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 2024.
Fashion Faux Pas: Baggy Golf Shorts (© Avalon Golf Co, 2024)
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.
Are 7-inch Shorts OK for Golf?
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.
Shown above. Avalon Performance 7-inch Golf Shorts in Stone Blue (© Avalon Golf Co, 2024)
9 Inch Golf Shorts - The Sweet Spot for Most
Not too long and not too short is often how we refer to a 9″ inseam. 9 Inch Golf Shorts often prove to be the most popular length due to the blend of traditional yet modern look. We often suggest golf shorts with a 9 inch inseam for those taller than 5’10 or for shorter folks who are looking for a more traditional yet classy look. If considering a 9 Inch Golf Short, consider a tailored, slim-fit short like the Avalon Performance 9” Golf Shorts.
Shown above. Avalon Performance 9-inch Golf Shorts in Sand (© Avalon Golf Co, 2024)
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, shop men’s golf shorts online. You’ll find specialty brands that focus on modern cuts with shorter inseams.
Choosing the Perfect Golf Shorts Length in 2024 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.
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