With Tiger Woods launching his own athleisure line and streetwear brands getting in the game to appeal to a younger crowd, golf style is evolving more rapidly than ever.
Amy Mazur, national sales manager of the corporate division for Perry Ellis International, says golf apparel is gaining athleisure appeal and trending more toward a lifestyle category.
“A lot of these pieces are going to be very versatile and transitional,” she says. “That’s really where golf is heading, so these trends are popular for people that don’t even really play golf, kind of like the surf brands or the skate brands.”
Mazur sees brighter hues and color combinations, as well as whimsical patterns already popular in retail, finding their way into promo. Perry Ellis, ranked the No. 36 supplier in the inaugural PPAI 100, offers the storied golf brands Callaway and Penguin, and Mazur says both are embracing what she calls “conversational pieces” featuring all-over prints that add interest, like tiny logos or martini glasses.
“I think our market in promo has become more open to stepping out of the box,” Mazur says, adding that she sees customers taking a more lifestyle-driven approach for their branded garments so people will want to wear them outside of work. “The more these trends start catching on, I think in our market the more we’ll be able to do as far as colors and prints.”
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Performance fabrics that offer moisture management and recycled fibers are also on the rise. Mazur says the recycled polyester and eco-blend textiles “are really great as far as silhouette” and drape well for an attractive fit. Plus, the push toward more sustainable products continues to grow.
“Recycled fabrics are perfect for selling to corporations or end users that have strong positions on the environment,” says Patrick Noonan, chief product officer for SanMar. The PPAI 100 No. 1 supplier carries more than 15 polos made with recycled content. “Teams are more excited to build, sell and market sustainable options. It helps employees recognize that they are a part of something bigger than themselves or that one transaction. They are making a real difference with the products they showcase.”
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FORE! Three golf apparel trends on the horizon:
- Combinations: Look for more than one color per garment, as well as multiple textures and finishes. Think mesh and fleece in the same piece, or perhaps a shiny sleeve on a matte body.
- Tailoring: Seams will become more prominent, and decorative tailoring will add polish and a modern take on streetwear and the oversized silhouettes of the 1990s.
- Asymmetrical Details: High-low hems and other details will add a feminine touch to women’s golf apparel.
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This Retro Geo Print Polo by Penguin brings modern style and brand-name cachet to the course or corporate office. Made with recycled polyester and elastane, the double knit fabric offers moisture wicking. Available in sizes S-3X.
Perry Ellis International / PPAI 255232, Gold
Update classic golf style with the All-Over Stitched Chev Polo, featuring the Callaway chevron in a subtle pattern on the fabric, as well as a zipper pull on the ladies’ collar. Its stretch spandex jersey knit fabric offers full range of motion, moisture wicking and UPF 40 protection. Available in peacoat navy or lapis blue and men’s sizes S-4X or women’s S-3X.
Perry Ellis International / PPAI 255232, Gold
The new Greatness Wins Athletic Tech Polo brings championship style to promo. This lightweight polo offers stretch, moisture wicking and UPF 30 protection, all in a fabric that is bluesign-approved and certified by the Global Recycled Standard. Available in four neutral colors (navy shown) and men’s sizes S-3X or women’s XS-2X.
PCNA / PPAI 113079, Platinum
The bestselling Nike Dri-FIT Micro Pique 2.0 Polo will transition to 100% recycled polyester this year. Its soft, stretchable micro pique fabric features moisture management for comfort, and updated design offers an improved fit. Available in five styles, 20 colors and men’s sizes XS-4X (tall L-4X in nine colors) or ladies S-2X.
SanMar / PPAI 110788, Platinum
The cozy, full-zip Ridgeline Fleece Vest, made of 100% polyester anti-pill fleece, features a faced collar that provides wind resistance, and the angled front zipper pockets offer warmth for hands or storage for personal items. Available in black or navy and men’s sizes S-3X or women’s XS-3X.
Charles River Apparel / PPAI 111644, Gold
The stylish Links 2 Golf Jacket offers a clean athleisure silhouette that can be worn on or off the golf course. The inner micro polar fleece lining provides warmth, and the outer layer has a waterproof membrane for protection from the elements. Available in sizes S-3X and five colors (dark royal shown).
Antigua Apparel / PPAI 133110, Silver
Rope details are trending for caps, and this Athletic Rope Cap, available in eight earthy colors, features a contrasting white or black braided rope accent across the brim. Made of 100% polyester performance fabric, the five-panel structured cap offers UV protection and moisture wicking.
Cap America / PPAI 111597, Gold
Available in 11 bright colors, the Flexfit 110 Aerated Performance Visor shades the wearer’s eyes with a standard pre-curved visor. Its moisture-wicking 100% polyester fabric and sweatband with stretchable hook-and-loop closure offer adjustable comfort for hours of wear.
Cap America / PPAI 111597, Gold
