A Word of Advice on Sun Protection for the Course

It’s Friday morning here in Singapore, and I’m already thinking about my weekend round. But honestly, the sun here is no joke, and at our age, you start to realise you’re not invincible.

A good friend of mine, her husband developed vitiligo after years of playing golf and spending time outdoors. It’s a stark reminder that all those hours in the sun—the hours we love—have a cumulative effect.

We’re not 25 anymore; we have to be smarter about this. It’s no longer about just avoiding a sunburn; it’s about genuine, long-term health preservation.

So, if you’re not already taking it seriously, here’s a practical guide to gearing up properly. It’s less about spending a lot of money and more about making smart investments.

1. Upgrade Your Shirt. Seriously.

Those old cotton polos from a decade ago? They’re comfortable, I get it, but they offer minimal sun protection. The best move I ever made was switching to proper UPF 50+ long-sleeve performance shirts.

• What to look for: Don’t get hung up on the big golf brand names. Look at the tag for the UPF 50+ rating. That’s the gold standard, blocking over 98% of harmful rays.
• The practical choice: Brands like Columbia, with their PFG (Performance Fishing Gear) line, are fantastic. They’re engineered for people who are on the water under direct sun all day, so they know what they’re doing. They’re breathable, lightweight, and often cheaper than the equivalent from a dedicated golf brand. It’s about function over fashion.

2. Get a Proper Hat.

A baseball cap is fine for the driving range, but for a four-hour round, it’s inadequate. Your ears and the back of your neck are completely exposed, which are prime spots for sun damage.

• What to look for: A wide-brimmed hat is the only sensible option. Something that provides 360-degree coverage.
• The practical choice: A good quality bucket hat or a “boonie” style hat is perfect. Brands like Tilley are expensive but last a lifetime. For a more reasonable option, look at outdoor specialists like Sunday Afternoons or even the wider-brimmed options from Titleist or Callaway. This isn’t a fashion statement; it’s essential equipment.

3. The Non-Negotiables: Sunscreen and Sunglasses.

• Sunscreen: Find a good broad-spectrum SPF 50 that you don’t hate wearing. The newer formulas from brands like La Roche-Posay or Neutrogena are lightweight and don’t feel greasy. Put it on at home before you even leave. By the time you get to the first tee, it’s already absorbed and working. Reapply at the turn. It’s a simple discipline.
• Sunglasses: This is crucial for protecting your vision long-term. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but you do need lenses that offer 100% UVA/UVB protection. Look for polarized lenses, as they significantly cut down on glare, which reduces eye strain over a long round.

Look, we schedule our rounds, work on our swing, and manage our family and work lives. Protecting our health on the course should be just another part of that routine. It’s a simple, responsible thing to do, and it ensures we can keep enjoying this game for decades to come.

Useful Links:
https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sun-protective-clothing/
https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/403/abcs_of_sunscreens

UPF Shirts

Wide-Brimmed Hat