Embracing Cultural Dress and Redefining the Fairways
Golf has long been associated with tradition, from its time-honoured rules to its classic dress codes. But the sport is evolving, becoming more inclusive, and broadening its understanding of what it means to belong on the fairways.
A key part of this shift is the growing acceptance of diverse cultural attire in golf, from the hijab to other traditional garments, allowing more people to feel seen, comfortable, and respected in a sport they love.
Historically, golf’s dress codes have been rigid, with unwritten rules dictating what is "appropriate" on the course. For many women from diverse cultural backgrounds, these restrictions created a barrier—not just impacting their fashion choices, but affecting their sense of belonging in the sport. The expectation to adhere to Western styles left many feeling that the sport wasn’t designed with them in mind. Fortunately, this is changing.
Today, more clubs are recognising that diversity doesn’t diminish the game—it enriches it. We’re witnessing a rise in golf clothing that accommodates cultural expressions, such as modest activewear and sports hijabs.
This shift towards inclusive clothing is being mirrored by changes within clubs themselves. Many are revising their dress codes to embrace a more open-minded approach, acknowledging that respect for tradition can coexist with respect for cultural diversity.
Brands and designers are creating pieces that allow women to be comfortable and true to themselves while playing their best game. This is about more than just clothing; it’s about welcoming players who have often felt overlooked and making space for everyone, regardless of cultural background, to share in the joys of golf.
For instance, the Muslim Golf Association recently partnered with Love Golf to create an event specifically for women who wear the hijab.
The sight of a woman confidently playing in a hijab, a long-sleeved top, or a traditional headscarf is no longer the exception—it’s becoming a celebrated part of the golf landscape.
These changes reflect the power of visibility: when people see others like themselves on the course, it sends a strong message that they belong.
For those who have been involved in the sport for years, it’s a reminder that golf is at its best when it’s welcoming. This evolution allows the sport to grow beyond its roots, to embrace new perspectives, and to reflect the diversity of the world we live in. It recognises that there are different ways to dress, play, and experience the game. And it proves that opening the door to diversity in golf attire doesn’t diminish the sport’s legacy—it enhances it.
There is power in those who lead by example—both clubs that welcome diversity with open arms and individuals who proudly play in attire that honours their identity.
Each step forward in this journey makes it easier for the next person to join, creating a ripple effect that can reshape the sport for the better.
Noor Ahmed
Noor Ahmed is a groundbreaking figure in the world of golf, known not only for her talent on the course but also for her role in promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport. Born and raised in California, Noor began golfing at a young age and went on to play competitively for the University of Nebraska. She made headlines as the first known Division I college golfer to compete while wearing a hijab, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes within the sport.
During her college career, Noor balanced rigorous academics with her athletic pursuits, becoming a respected leader on her team and a source of inspiration for young Muslim athletes around the world. She’s since become a vocal advocate for expanding access to golf, encouraging young women from all backgrounds to pursue the game and inspiring them to embrace their identities both on and off the course.