A Cold Open
The Friday morning air nips at your fingers, crisp and still, with mist cloaking the windows. Dawn’s pale light spills through, casting shadows across the hardwood. You stand before the closet, leather and cotton scents mingling with the chill. Today’s round is a ritual, and the outfit sets the tone.
You choose a navy merino sweater, light yet warm, for the cool dawn. Khaki shorts, tailored and flexible, nod to tradition while promising ease. A white polo, soft with a subtle emblem, speaks of heritage. Thin, ankle socks and bone-white spiked shoes to grip the dewy grass. A simple leather belt and white cap complete the look, shielding you from the morning’s glare.
The mist swirls outside, curling around distant pines, serene and alive. The outfit feels deliberate, balancing function and form, ready for the course’s calm challenge. Your reflection shows poise. Clubs rattle softly as you grab your bag, stepping into the quiet, the course calling like an old friend.
Golf Belts for the Modern Player
Alright, back on the topic of attire for the modern player, and we’re discussing belts. Belts are a key piece in a wardrobe, and one I often see styled incorrectly.
Quick disclaimer: white belts are a no-go. Under no circumstances are they appealing, especially if you’re on the heavier side. I don’t care if they match your shoes or hat. Do not wear one.
Here are a few of my favorite brands. You can go with whichever brand you like, but you should be looking for styles similar to the ones below. You can walk onto any golf course in the country in these belts and look good. That’s the goal here.
Holderness Fisher and Barker Belts
Peter Millar Waxed Braided Belt
La Matera (not quite my style, but they have some solid options)
The key with belts is to keep them understated and neutral, so you can own 2-3 and mix them into pretty much any rota. A logo’d Smathers from your home club is a great starter piece, and you can build your closet from there.
Pre-Round Drills
I posted this one on X awhile back. If you have a tee time and have no idea where the ball is going, set up this drill. Admittedly, this is probably best for single-digit players that are looking to eliminate one side of the golf course.
It helps me get my swing path neutral, so I can work on the club face at impact. I set this drill up about 5 yards left of target and work on little fades with my irons.
As a bonus, it forces you to take divots in straight lines. Your super thanks you.
Wear Pattern of the Week
Saw this one on Reddit from a guy shopping for used clubs at Golf Galaxy. I think you have to auto-purchase them in hopes that the tour-level ball striking on these wears off on you.
Rule Explanation - Unplayable Lies
In golf, the "unplayable lie" rule (Rule 19) can be tricky. If your ball lands in a tough spot, like thick bushes, you can declare it unplayable. You have three options:
Take a one-stroke penalty and drop the ball within two club-lengths, no closer to the hole
Go back to where you last played a shot
Drop it along the line from the hole through where your ball lies.
This rule helps you escape bad situations but costs a stroke. Always know your options to make smart choices and keep the game moving.
Tomorrow: The Saturday Edition
Each Saturday, we go deep — with a satirical essay covering behind the scenes nonsense at elite private clubs.
Start your weekend with a laugh - just 1 referral gets you access
Talk soon,
BTG