Southern Tide has established itself as a notable player in the golf apparel market, blending classic American style with modern fabric technology. Founded in 2006 in Greenville, South Carolina, by Allen Stephenson, the brand has grown from its iconic Skipjack Polo to a comprehensive range of performance golfwear. This review delves into the brand’s unique offerings, focusing on its stylefittechnology and pricing particularly for UK golfers.
The brand’s success is rooted in its commitment to authentic fabric innovation and a preppy coastal aesthetic. Southern Tide’s partnership with brrr° cooling technology sets it apart, offering genuine performance benefits in warm conditions. However, its limited UK retail presence poses challenges for British golfers, who must navigate international shipping and import duties.
Key Features of Southern Tide Golf Apparel
Southern Tide’s golf apparel is characterized by several key features that cater to both style and performance:
- Signature tech/fabric brrr° Triple Chill Effect cooling technology, 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and UV protection
- Design language Classic coastal Americana, preppy colour palette, and the distinctive Skipjack fish emblem
- Fit profile Classic fit, clean and traditional, not slim or streetwear-influenced
- Range depth Polos, shorts, trousers, quarter-zips, midlayers, outerwear, caps, and accessories
Pros and Cons
The brand’s strengths include its effective cooling technology, the timeless appeal of the Skipjack Polo, and a consistent fit that suits a wide range of body types. Southern Tide’s apparel also offers excellent course-to-clubhouse versatility with its clean, preppy aesthetic. Additionally, the brand incorporates organic cotton and recycled polyester in its core lines, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
However, there are some drawbacks. The limited UK retail presence means that British golfers face additional costs and potential hassles with international shipping and returns. Southern Tide also lacks Tour ambassadors or significant professional golf credibility. The classic fit, while comfortable, may not appeal to serious performance golfers seeking a more tailored look. Furthermore, the brand’s waterproof outerwear range is minimal compared to European performance brands.
Southern Tide Pricing
Southern Tide positions itself in the mid-premium lifestyle bracket. While US pricing is fair for the quality offered, UK buyers must factor in international shipping, import duties, and exchange rates, which can significantly increase the effective cost. Here’s a breakdown of the typical pricing for various categories:
- Polos£65 – £100+
- Shorts/Trousers£70 – £100+
- Midlayers£85 – £130+
- Outerwear£100 – £165+
- Caps£25 – £45+
Note: Prices are approximate GBP equivalents from, including estimated import costs for UK buyers.
Comparison with Other Brands
Southern Tide competes with several other golf apparel brands, each offering unique advantages. For instance, Three Putt provides a similar lifestyle crossover appeal but with better UK retail infrastructure. Tommy Hilfiger offers wider UK availability and stronger name recognition at comparable prices, although Southern Tide’s brrr° cooling technology gives it a performance edge in warm weather. Lyle & Scott is a natural alternative for UK golfers seeking coastal-inspired, relaxed golfwear with proper retail infrastructure and heritage credibility.
Southern Tide Fit and Sizing
Southern Tide adheres to a classic fit philosophy, with clean and traditional silhouettes that lean towards a country club aesthetic rather than streetwear. The brand’s polos feature a drop-tail hem designed to stay tucked during the swing, and the brrr° shorts include waistband grippers to keep shirts in place.
The brand’s size charts are reliable, catering primarily to US consumers with standard American conventions. Sizes range from XS through XXL across most categories. Southern Tide’s full range is available for men, while women’s active range is available but golf-specific options are limited. The classic fit suits golfers who prioritize relaxed comfort over tailored precision.
Southern Tide’s apparel truly excels in warm weather conditions. The brrr° fabric offers a measurable cooling effect that sets it apart from standard moisture-wicking materials. This makes it an excellent choice for golfers who frequently play in hot and humid climates.
While its limited UK retail presence poses challenges for British golfers, the brand’s unique features and quality make it a worthy consideration for those willing to navigate the import process.
