Solve a problem, do not buy a novelty. The best golf gifts are the ones a golfer uses every round but never gets around to buying for themselves. A putting mat, a practice net, a cooling towel — these are things that make a real difference. Gimmick gadgets and branded tchotchkes end up in a drawer. Stick to gear that does a job.
Know what side they play from. Gloves are hand-specific: a right-handed golfer wears a glove on the left hand, and vice versa. If you are buying a glove, check (or sneak a peek at their bag) before you order. The FootJoy WeatherSof two-pack comes in men's and women's sizes, so there is a fit for everyone.
Think about when they play. A golfer who plays in July needs sun protection and cooling gear — the sun hat and cooling towels are automatic. Someone who plays early mornings or in the shoulder seasons will get more use from the umbrella and the insulated cart cooler. Match the gift to the conditions they actually face.
Practice gifts pay off the most. The putting mat and the hitting net are the two gifts on this list that can genuinely lower a handicap. A golfer who uses them will see results within a month. If you want a gift that means something, give the gift of reps — it is the one thing every golfer needs and never has enough time for.
Size matters for apparel. The performance polo and the sun hat both come in standard sizes. When in doubt, size up slightly on the polo — a golf shirt that fits a touch loose is far more useful than one that binds through the shoulders on a full swing. For the hat, check if they already wear an adjustable strap hat (one-size) or a fitted cap (needs a measurement).
Prices shift often, so we send you to the live price rather than quote a stale one. Check the current number before you buy, and remember that Amazon often runs small discounts on these items that bring them even further under $50.
