Embroidery vs Printing for Golf Apparel: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between embroidered vs printed golf clothing is one of the most common decisions when ordering custom apparel for golf events.
Both options can look fantastic — but the right choice depends on your event type, logo design, budget and how the clothing will be used after the event.
At Event Caddie, we supply custom golf clothing across the UK for corporate golf days, golf societies, golf trips, charity events, team tournaments and stag weekends. After hundreds of orders, we’ve seen clear trends in what works best.
In this guide, we break down the differences between embroidery and printing — including appearance, durability, pricing and which option works best for different golf events.
If you’re still in the early stages of planning, our guide on how to plan a golf day covers everything from clothing and gifts to signage and sponsorship.
Why Custom Golf Clothing Matters
Branded golf apparel does far more than make your group look good on the day.
It can help:
- create a professional appearance at corporate golf days
- build team identity for societies and clubs
- increase sponsor visibility
- make golf trips more memorable
- provide long-lasting merchandise guests will wear again
Whether you’re organising a client golf day or a weekend golf trip abroad, choosing the right branding method matters.
Browse our full custom golf clothing range for inspiration
What is Embroidery on Golf Apparel?
Embroidery uses stitched thread to recreate your logo directly onto the garment. It creates a raised, textured finish that is widely associated with premium clothing.
It is most commonly used on:
Why Embroidery Works Best for Corporate Golf & Societies
Embroidery is strongly associated with corporate golf events and golf societies because it delivers a smart, consistent and professional appearance. Golf societies often choose embroidered polos because they’re durable and worn repeatedly. See our guide to Golf Society Essentials for more ideas on creating a professional society identity.
In our experience at Event Caddie:
- embroidered apparel is the most common choice for client-facing golf days
- societies prefer embroidery because garments are worn repeatedly
- sponsors often prefer embroidery for premium visibility – Sponsors often prefer embroidered apparel because it provides long-lasting brand exposure. Explore additional golf event sponsorship ideas to maximise visibility throughout your event.
Real Example: Embroidered Corporate Golf Order
A recent corporate golf day order included:
- 60 embroidered polo shirts
- 30 embroidered caps for sponsors
- navy/white colour scheme with chest logo
The organiser needed a professional look for client hosting. Embroidery was chosen because it created a consistent, premium finish suitable for hospitality environments.
Embroidered polos and caps are popular additions to a corporate golf day welcome pack, helping create a premium experience for guests.
What We Typically See (Embroidery Orders)
- Around 70–80% of corporate golf apparel orders include embroidery
- Most common position: left chest logo
- Repeat usage is high due to garment durability
- Polo shirts and quarter zips dominate embroidery orders
What is Printing on Golf Apparel?
Printing applies your logo or design onto the garment using methods such as screen print, digital print or transfer print.
It is most commonly used on:
- hoodies
- t-shirts
- casual polos
- event wear
- large back prints
Why Printing Works Best for Golf Trips & Stag Dos
Printing is the preferred choice for golf trips, stag weekends and social events because it allows more creative freedom.
It is especially effective for:
- detailed AI-generated logos
- nicknames and personalised designs
- large back prints
- multi-colour artwork
- humorous or themed designs
Real Example: Printed Golf Trip Order
A recent golf trip order included:
- 40 printed hoodies
- personalised player nicknames on the back
- destination and event date printed design
Printing was chosen because the artwork included multiple colours and detailed graphics that would not translate well into embroidery.
What We Typically See (Print Orders)
- Around 70–80% of golf trip apparel orders use printing
- Hoodies and polos are the most common printed garments
- Most designs include names, nicknames or destinations
- Stag do orders are almost always print-based
Embroidery vs Printing: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Embroidery | Printing |
| Appearance | Premium, textured | Bold, flat, modern |
| Best for | Corporate & societies | Trips & casual events |
| Logo type | Simple logos | Detailed / multi-colour |
| Durability | Excellent | Good (depends on wash care) |
| Garments | Polos, jackets, caps | Hoodies, tees, casual wear |
Best Choice by Event Type
Corporate Golf Days
✔ Embroidery (smart, professional finish)
Golf Societies
✔ Embroidery (long-term wear, consistency)
Golf Trips Abroad
✔ Printing (fun, personalised, creative)
Stag Do Golf Weekends
✔ Printing (bold, humorous designs)
Mixed Events
✔ Combination of both methods
Industry Insight (What We See at Event Caddie)
Across hundreds of orders:
- Corporate & society events → majority embroidery
- Golf trips & stag weekends → majority print
- Mixed events → combination of both methods
This pattern has remained consistent across multiple seasons.
Key Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing based on price alone
- Using complex logos for embroidery without simplification
- Not considering garment type before selecting print/embroidery
- Leaving orders too late for event deadlines
Our Recommendation
If you want a premium, long-lasting and traditional golf finish, choose embroidery.
If you want a creative, colourful and personalised design, choose printing.
In many cases, the best solution is a combination of both:
- Embroidered polos for players or clients
- Printed hoodies for trips or casual wear
- Printed t-shirts for supporting groups
- Embroidered caps for sponsors
Useful Links
- Browse all golf clothing products
- Read our guide on Embroidered Golf Shirts for Events
How to Make Your Branded Clothing Last Longer
Regardless of which option you choose, proper garment care matters.
The UK Fashion & Textile Association offers useful garment care guidance for maintaining embroidered and printed clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is embroidery better than printing for golf polos?
Yes, embroidery is usually preferred for polo shirts due to its premium finish.
Can printed logos include multiple colours?
Yes, printing is ideal for detailed and multi-colour designs.
What is best for golf trips?
Printing is usually the best option for golf trips due to creative flexibility.
Which lasts longer, embroidery or print?
Embroidery generally lasts longer, especially on frequently worn garments.
Can I mix embroidery and printing in one order?
Yes, many customers combine both depending on garment type.
Final Summary
Both embroidery and printing have clear advantages. The right choice depends on the event type, logo design and intended use.
- Embroidery = premium, corporate, long-term wear
- Printing = creative, casual, personalised designs
At Event Caddie, we help customers choose the best option for their specific golf event, ensuring the final result looks professional and fits the purpose perfectly.
