Our readers keep the lights on and my smoothie glass nicely filled. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
Cheap golf shorts are a gamble: stiff fabric can lock up your swing, or you can find a pair that feels premium for less. This guide covers six pairs that deliver comfortable, stretchy shorts built to survive a hot round without looking cheap. The winner for most players is the 33,000ft Men’s Golf Shorts, combining a 9-inch inseam, 4-way stretch, and UPF 50 at a price that leaves room for a second pair.
This guide compares manufacturer specs and verified customer reviews to highlight each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs.
if you need a 7-inch inseam for a modern tapered look or a 9-inch cut for more coverage, these are the cheap golf shorts that hold their own against premium brands without draining your wallet.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Cheap Golf Shorts
Shallow pockets dump your phone out every time you sit. Here is what to look for so you get it right the first time.
Inseam Length — 7″ vs 9″
This is the single most visible spec. A 7-inch inseam sits above the knee — modern, tapered, and popular with younger players or anyone who wants a cleaner, athletic silhouette. A 9-inch inseam falls closer to the knee or just below it, offering more traditional coverage. There is no right or wrong — it depends on your height, your build, and how much leg you want to show. Taller guys often find 7-inch shorts too short, while shorter players find 9-inch shorts bunchy at the knee.
Stretch Fabric & Active Waistband
Golf involves twisting, bending, and squatting — a lot of it. Cheap shorts without stretch fabric will pull across your thighs and bind at the waist. Look for “4-way stretch” or a blended fabric that includes spandex or elastane. An active waistband (a stretchy panel built into the waist) gives you about two extra inches of give, so you can bend into a putt without needing to tighten your belt.
Moisture-Wicking & Sun Protection
Summer golf means sweat and direct sun. A moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin so it evaporates — you stay dry instead of damp. UPF 50 sun protection blocks roughly 98% of UV rays. If you play early or late in the day, the moisture-wicking matters most; if you are on the course at high noon, the sun protection is the bigger deal. At this price tier, getting both features in one pair is a strong sign.
Pocket Layout That Works
You carry at least three things: a phone, a scorecard or pencil, and a ball marker. Cheap shorts often skimp on pocket depth. A front pocket that is too shallow lets your phone slide out when you sit in a golf cart. Look for deeper pockets, ideally with a zipper or snap closure on at least one pocket, so nothing bounces out during a swing. Back pockets are useful for a glove or a wallet, but make sure they are actually sewn open and functional.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Inseam | Fabric Stretch | Sun Protection | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33,000ft Men’s Golf Shorts★ Best Overall | Best Overall Value | 9″ | 4-Way | UPF 50+ | Amazon |
| SERAMY Stretch Golf ShortsBest Value | Pocket Lovers | 7″ | 4-Way | UPF 50+ | Amazon |
| PGA Tour 7″ Performance Stretch | Modern Slim Fit | 7″ | Performance Stretch | Built-in | Amazon |
| Callaway 9″ Pro Spin | Traditional Coverage | 9″ | High (Dupont Sorona) | UPF 50 | Amazon |
| PUMA Dealer Shorts 10 | Versatile Lifestyle | 9″ | 4-Way | — | Amazon |
| Adidas Adi Advantage | Classic Style | 9″ | Polyester | — | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. 33,000ft Men’s Golf Shorts 9″
The lightweight pair that wicks sweat and keeps you moving without asking for much cash.
The 33,000ft Men’s Golf Shorts deliver a lot for the money. The fabric uses 4-way stretch (it stretches horizontally and vertically so you can twist through your swing), feels airy against the skin, and includes UPF 50 sun protection (blocks about 98% of UV rays) so you are not frying your legs during a midday round. Buyers report that the material wicks sweat effectively even in 95+°F heat. The 9-inch inseam offers traditional coverage, sitting just around the knee, which is perfect if you prefer a classic silhouette over a modern crop.
Fit and quality are the two aspects owners praise most — specifically the tailored cut that accommodates a tee and the elastic waistband that expands as you bend. The trade-off is pocket depth. A few owners note the left front pocket sits shallower than the right, which can make a large phone feel insecure. The rear pockets also draw mixed feedback for being on the shorter side. If you carry everything in your front pockets, you may want to test the depth before you commit.
The 33,000ft pair outpaces the SERAMY shorts on overall value (the 33,000ft pair has more total reviews and a slightly broader fit range), even if the SERAMY pair wins on pocket count. For a first pair of no-regret warm-weather shorts, this is the one to start with.
Why They Earn Their Spot
- 4-Way stretch fabric moves freely through a full swing without pulling
- UPF 50+ built-in sun protection blocks harmful rays on sunny fairways
- Elastic waistband expands comfortably when you bend for a putt
The One Catch
- Front pockets are shallower than many buyers expect — large phones may shift or slip out when seated
Best For: The golfer who wants a single do-it-all pair for hot days, with the 9-inch coverage that traditionalists and taller players prefer.
Think Twice If: You carry your phone in your left front pocket and hate the feeling of it shifting — that shallower pocket may bug you every round.
2. SERAMY Mens Stretch Golf Shorts 7″
Six pockets, a 7-inch inseam, and fabric so thin it feels like a second skin in July.
The defining spec here is the pocket count — six total, including zippered cargo pockets, back snap pockets, and a hidden phone pocket. That is more storage than any other pair on this list, and it makes the SERAMY shorts the obvious choice if you hate leaving things in your golf bag. The 7-inch inseam gives a modern, above-the-knee cut that younger players and athletic builds tend to prefer. The 4-way stretch fabric is lightweight, quick-drying, and rated UPF 50+, so it works on the course and transitions straight to a post-round beer without looking like gym wear.
Fit is what owners bring up most — the waistband is true to size and holds its shape through multiple washes. The material is intentionally very thin (95% polyester and 5% spandex), which buyers either love for breathability in humidity or find too lightweight for their taste. The 7-inch inseam also gets mixed reactions from taller buyers — at 5’9″ and above, the hem rides noticeably higher than what you get from the 9-inch options like the Callaway. If you have thicker thighs, the shorter cut fits comfortably without binding, but a few owners found it shorter than expected.
Compared to the PGA Tour shorts below, the SERAMY pair offers more pockets for about less, while the PGA Tour wins on a slightly higher overall rating and a more refined flat-front look. The choice depends on storage versus styling.
Standout Strengths
- Six functional pockets including a hidden phone slot and zippered cargo pocket
- Ultra-lightweight 95% polyester / 5% spandex blend breathes in high heat
- UPF 50+ sun protection covers you from the first tee to the 18th green
The Real Trade-Off
- Very thin fabric may feel insubstantial to those used to heavier cotton-blend shorts
Ideal For: The minimalist who carries everything on his person — phone, keys, wallet, scorecard — and wants a pocket for each.
Not Your Pair If: You are over 5’10” or prefer shorts that hit below the knee; the 7-inch inseam will feel too short.
3. PGA Tour Men’s 7″ Flat Front Performance Stretch
A tailored 7-inch cut with an active waistband that gives two inches without needing a belt.
What sets this pair apart is the refined flat-front design paired with a performance stretch fabric that breathes and moves. The 7-inch inseam is intentionally modern — sitting above the knee for a streamlined silhouette that looks sharp with a polo or a casual button-down. The active waistband (a 1.5- to 2-inch stretch panel built into the waist) stretches with you and also grips your shirt to keep it tucked, which is a thoughtful detail that cheaper shorts overlook. Moisture-wicking technology and built-in sun protection round out the feature set, making these ready for a muggy afternoon round.
Owners consistently call out the excellent fit — the legs are slim without being tight, and the stretch fabric moves without restriction through a full rotation. The material is lightweight, breathable, and comes out of the wash with a sharp crease and no wrinkles. At a 7-inch inseam versus the 9-inch Callaway, the PGA Tour shorts deliver a noticeably more tailored look for shorter players (the 5’6″ to 5’9″ range seems to be the balance). The single biggest caveat: sizing runs large, with one owner reporting they normally wear a size 36 but had to order a size 32 for a proper fit. If you buy these, consider going down at least one full size from your normal waist measurement.
Versus the SERAMY pair, the PGA Tour shorts feel more polished and drape better — they look like a pair of shorts at a price. The trade-off is fewer pockets (four rather than six) and the sizing quirk that trips up first-time buyers.
Why It Stands Out
- Active waistband stretches up to 2 inches for unrestricted movement and keeps your shirt tucked naturally
- Flat-front design creates a clean, modern silhouette that dresses up easily
- Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin, so you stay dry on hot stretches
One Important Note
- Sizing runs very large — you will likely need to order one to two sizes smaller than your usual waist
Who It Fits: The player who wants a sharp, slim look without paying designer prices — especially good for shorter guys (5’6″ to 5’9″).
Who Should Skip: Anyone who hates ordering multiple sizes to get the fit right; the sizing inconsistency is a genuine hassle.
4. Callaway Men’s 9″ Pro Spin Golf Shorts
Dupont Sorona stretch fabric that rivals shorts, with a 9-inch inseam for classic coverage.
Callaway brings something rare at this price point: fabric that feels genuinely premium. The Pro Spin shorts use sustainably sourced Dupont Sorona (80% polyester, 20% Elasterell-P) that has a soft, high-stretch handfeel — the kind of fabric you usually find on a rack above. The 9-inch inseam offers the most traditional coverage in this lineup, falling at or just below the knee. The active waistband stretches up to 2 inches and grips your shirt so it stays tucked through your backswing. Opti-Dri moisture-wicking technology pulls sweat away, and the UPF 50 rating adds serious sun defense.
The two most-praised aspects are quality and fit. The fabric holds its shape and color after repeated wash cycles, and the cut works well for athletic builds with bigger legs and glutes. One owner who also owns competitors found these were indistinguishable in comfort and durability — a strong endorsement for the price. The notable downside: the right back pocket on some pairs is sewn shut as a design detail, which frustrates owners who actually use both back pockets for a phone or glove. If you rely on that pocket, this could be a daily annoyance.
Compared to the 33,000ft shorts, the Callaway pair is pricier but delivers superior fabric and a more polished fit. The 33,000ft shorts are the better pure value play; the Callaway shorts are the upgrade for anyone who wants the best fabric feel at the lowest possible price.
Premium Feel, Real Trade-Off: The Sorona fabric genuinely rivals brands, and the athletic cut is generous through the seat and thighs. But the sewn-shut back pocket on some units is a head-scratcher that owners find annoying, not deal-breaking.
Reach For These If: You want the nicest-feeling fabric on this list — soft, stretchy, and durable — and you prefer a 9-inch traditional length.
Look Elsewhere If: You absolutely need both back pockets to be functional; the right pocket may be stitched closed.
5. PUMA Dealer Shorts 10
Goes from the 18th green to the beach without a wardrobe change.
PUMA designed these for the golfer who lives near the coast or the guy who hates changing clothes after a round. The 4-way stretch fabric is lightweight and fast-drying, with a quick-dry waistband and hydramesh pockets that shed water instead of holding it. The 9-inch inseam lands in the versatile balance — not too long, not too short. The fit is true to size, and the waistband is forgiving enough that you can wear them through a long lunch without loosening your belt.
Buyers rate the fit and quality as the top strengths. The shorts wash well, hold their shape, and resist wrinkles — several owners specifically mention never needing to iron them. The fabric earns mixed feedback, with most praising its lightweight feel while a few find it lacks the body and heft of heavier golf shorts. The white pair specifically is very transparent, so stick to darker colors if you want to avoid a see-through look. Versatility is the real selling point: these look fine with a polo on the course and just as natural with flip-flops by the water.
Next to the Adidas Adi Advantage, the PUMA Dealer is sportier and more amphibious. The Adidas wins on classic styling and slightly higher quality ratings, while the PUMA is better for the player who wants one pair that does course, beach, and casual dinner duty.
What Owners Love
- Quick-dry waistband and hydramesh pockets handle water and sweat without soaking through
- Wrinkle-resistant fabric comes out of the wash ready to wear with zero ironing
- Forgiving waistband stays comfortable through a full day of eating, driving, and swinging
Know Before You Buy
- White color is unlined and transparent — choose darker shades to stay opaque
Perfect Partner For: The golfer who hates changing — plays 18 holes and heads straight to lunch or the beach in the same shorts.
Not The Best Pick If: You prefer a heavier, more structured fabric; the PUMA material is intentionally light and airy, which some find too insubstantial.
6. Adidas Mens Adi Advantage Golf Shorts
Timeless Adidas styling with polyester fabric that breathes in muggy heat and travels without wrinkling.
Adidas keeps it simple here: a classic pair of golf shorts with belt loops, front and back pockets, and a 9-inch inseam that hits right around the knee. The fabric is 100% recycled polyester — a nice sustainability touch that does not compromise feel. It is lightweight, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant, which makes it a strong travel pick. One owner specifically bought these for a tropical vacation (not even for golf) and loved how the fabric held up in hot, humid conditions.
Quality and fit are the two most-discussed strengths. The shorts are well-constructed, machine-washable, and keep their shape. The fit trend is slightly slimmer than traditional — more of a modern cut. This trips up some buyers: a 5’9″, 185-pound owner found the 30-inch waist too tight and recommends sizing up. The sizing is mixed in the reviews, with some finding them true to size and others needing a larger waist. If you are between sizes, go up. The material is a straight polyester without added spandex, so you lose the 4-way stretch that the Callaway and PUMA shorts offer.
Compared to the Callaway Pro Spin, the Adidas is simpler, slightly less stretchy, and more of a straight-laced traditionalist’s short. The Callaway wins on fabric innovation and stretch; the Adidas wins on brand recognition and a clean, no-fuss design for the guy who just wants a solid pair of basic shorts.
Classic Appeal, Honest Limits: The wrinkle-resistant recycled fabric is well-suited for travel and humid rounds, and the build quality is consistent with Adidas’ reputation. The lack of spandex means you give up stretch for durability, and the slimmer fit runs small — sizing up is the safe move.
Ideal Pick For: The traditionalist who wants a simple, well-made pair of golf shorts from a trusted brand, especially for travel or hot-weather trips.
Skip It For: Anyone who needs stretch fabric for a full range of motion — the straight polyester does not flex the way a 4-way stretch blend does.
Understanding the Specs
Inseam Length (7″ vs 9″)
This is the distance from the crotch seam to the hem. A 7-inch inseam hits above the knee, creating a modern, athletic look. A 9-inch inseam falls closer to the knee, offering more traditional coverage. Your height and build matter here: taller players (over 5’10”) often find 7-inch shorts too short, while shorter players find 9-inch shorts bunchy. There is no better or worse — it is about what looks proportional on your frame. If you are trying cheap golf shorts for the first time, measure a pair you already like the length of and use that as your guide.
4-Way Stretch Fabric
Four-way stretch means the fabric stretches both horizontally and vertically, so it moves with you in every direction — important for a golf swing that twists your torso and drops your hip. Look for a blend of polyester and spandex (or elastane). The spandex percentage directly controls how much give the shorts have. Even 5% spandex makes a noticeable difference compared to 100% polyester, which will pull and restrict. An active waistband (a panel of elastic built into the waist) adds another layer of stretch, giving you roughly 2 inches of extra room when you bend or squat.
FAQ
Will a 7-inch inseam feel too short for someone who is 6 feet tall?
What does UPF 50 sun protection actually do for me on the golf course?
How do I know if an active waistband actually helps my golf swing?
Can cheap golf shorts feel as comfortable as expensive ones?
How do I wash cheap golf shorts so they last longer?
What is the difference between moisture-wicking and just “breathable” fabric?
Will cheap golf shorts work for hiking or casual wear too?
Which pocket layout is best for carrying a phone while playing?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most players, the cheap golf shorts to start with are the 33,000ft Men’s Golf Shorts, because they combine 4-way stretch, UPF 50 sun protection, and a 9-inch inseam at a price that leaves room for a second pair. If you want the maximum pocket count and a modern 7-inch cut, grab the SERAMY Stretch Golf Shorts. And for the golfer who wants the best-feeling fabric — the kind that rivals shorts — the Callaway 9″ Pro Spin is the one to reach for, as long as you are okay with a sewn-shut back pocket.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, WellFizz earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.
Related Guides
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.