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Colorado is home to a variety of different golf courses that have plenty of sun and differing weather conditions but no matter where you play its at high altitude...some courses are really up there. 

The courses on the planes have milder weather and can be played year round with high temperatures and sun in the summer but luckily its an arid climate so you don't feel the swampiness of high humidity climates. 

If you're playing the mountain courses the weather can change quickly, especially in shoulder seasons, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings. 

Check the weather forecast before your trip to have a better understanding of weather conditions also looking at the temperatures in morning and evening to see if there are big swings that may impact your gear selection.

Below are the items that our team found to most valuable:

Must Have's:

• Tops and bottoms: multiple versatile options and layering for different weather conditions, comfort, performance and off-course
• Tops
• Long-sleeve water proof lightweight jacket that is lose for multiple-layers and flexibility. Gor-Tex is always a reliable choice and is breathable.  
• Long-sleeve base layer: compression helps to reduce bulkiness and are normally breathable
• Short-sleeve base: compression helps reduce bulkiness and are normally breathable
• Heavier mid-layer with some form warmth/insulation 
• Polos both long and short sleeve to wear with base or by itself and meet dress requirements. Polyester blend is comfortable and dries quickly.
• Casual everyday and dress shirts for off-the-course wear
• Bottoms
• Water proof lightweight pants that are lose for multiple-layers and flexibility. Gor-Tex is always a reliable choice and is breathable.
• Base layer leggings (long john's, spandex w/insulation, sweats) that can be worn under pants for colder conditions
• Golf pants worn in cooler conditions that also meet dress requirements.  Polyester blend is comfortable and dries quickly.  
• Golf shorts worn in warmer conditions that also meet dress requirements with some courses forbidding. Polyester blend is comfortable and dries quickly.
• Jeans for everyday wear off course.  
• Underwear: obvious reasons...your choice briefs, boxers or banana hammock
• Golf shoes: light and breathable in the summer and water-resistant in Spring or Fall.
• Other shoes
• Casual performance shoes: sneakers, running shoes, etc that are comfortable with performance benefits for travel and walking
• Socks: multiple warm and performance sets for weather and comfort
• Golf balls - many of the courses in Colorado, especially the mountain courses, are not forgiving.  Bring plenty of balls to reload if you have a tendency for wayward shots.
• Golf gloves: normal gloves in summer and rain gloves for spring and summer
• Other gloves: if you are going in shoulder season bring a pair of insulated and water proof winter gloves to keep you warm
• Hats: breathable cap or visor for summer with a beanie for shoulder seasons
• Belt: helps keep those trousers on the hips
• Golf accessories: tees, ball markers, etc.  
• Clubs: the basics you normally play
• Bag cover: always nice to keep your clubs dry if raining 
• Luggage 
• Golf travel bag: hard or soft bag to keep the clubs secure
• Dopp Kit:
• Usuals: for a trip 
• Pain relievers: to help with knees, back or a hangover
• Lip balm: sun and wind
• Sunscreen: it is highly likely you will be seeing a lot of sun during your trip and with the altitude the sun is more powerful so don't skimp on sun screen.
• Contact solution: important if you wear contacts
• Documents and $:
• Drivers license: plane TSA, car rental, hotel check-in and if you're lucky enough to get carded on the 19th hole
• Credit card: accepted nearly everywhere and reduces need to carry cash
• Phone: vast and reliable coverage even on mountain courses
• Plastic bags: ziplock or other secure mechanism to keep valuables dry in golf bag if weather gets nasty
• Medicine: don't forget it if the doctor ordered

Nice Have's:

• Sunglasses
• Water resistant/proof cap or bucket hat
• Visor 
• Cash: easy access for tipping
• Water bottle: stay hydrated on course with all the walking
• Down or sweater vest: perfect for cooler but not cold conditions with shoulder and arm freedom
• Short-sleeve lightweight water resistant jacket: perfect for cooler and light rain conditions with shoulder and arm freedom
• Camera: if you want high quality photos of your trip
• Laptop/tablet: doesn't hurt to have a larger screen or check in with work if you're playing hooky.
• Watch: get time, temperature, email, etc
• GPS course accessory or programs: helpful if you don't have a caddy with limited distance markers on some courses
• Scope: to shoot distances if you don't have a caddy
• Neck warmer: doesn't hurt to have if its cold
• Water proof phone case: no need to worry if it gets wet
• Handkerchief of micro-fiber small towel: nice to have if conditions get wet and you need wipe your face nose or dry something else
• Bandaids: if you get a blister on your feet or cut somewhere becomes a requirement

Optional Have's:

• Earphones: to listen to music or watch movies on plane or ground transport
• Playing cards: nice to have when traveling with friends for plan, ground transport and late night gambling action

Other things to consider:

• Pack a versatile single wearing of your golf gear in carryon in case your luggage is lost and you don't want to spend a fortune in pro shop getting completely outfitted
• ShipSticks so you don't have to deal with carrying your luggage and golf bag
• Load up your golf bag with your shoes and extras to free up room and potentially reduce additional luggage airline fees. 
• Unscrew your woods from shaft to reduce likelihood of breaking during transportation
• Buy versatile golf apparel that can be worn on and off course
• Leave some luggage space for souvenirs 

Bandon is a true links course that also captures many of the variable weather conditions found in Scotland and Ireland.  Its exposed coastal golf where rain and wind can be plentiful during winter, shoulder seasons and even the summer.  Below are the essential and other items that our team found to most valuable after playing there for over 10 years:

Must Have's:

• Tops and bottoms: multiple versatile layering options for different weather conditions, comfort, performance and off-course
• Tops
• Long-sleeve water proof lightweight jacket that is loose for multiple-layers and flexibility. Gor-Tex is always a reliable choice and is breathable. Open up the pocket book and pay for the better raingear.  Staying dry is critical to having a good experience.
• Long-sleeve base layer: compression helps to reduce bulkiness and are normally breathable. Wool and performance fabrics are ideal for laying.
• Short-sleeve base: compression helps reduce bulkiness and are normally breathable. Wool and performance fabrics are ideal for layering.  
• Mid-layer: a critical layer for variable weather and temperature.  Ideally this piece has thermo regulation and moisture wicking so you can wear comfortable as temp swings and doesn't require you to regularly take on/off.
• Check out the WYLD1 Beyond Quarter Zip with Graphene thermo-management that we specifically designed and tested for links golf elements
• Polos: both long and short sleeve to wear with base or by itself. 
• Check out our Pure Merino Polos that also provides enhanced thermo-regulation and moisture wicking for warmer and cooler variable weather conditions
• Casual: everyday and dress shirts for evening dinning and activities
• Bottoms
• Water proof lightweight pants: that are loose for multiple-layers and flexibility for walking and swinging. Gor-Tex is always a reliable choice and is breathable. Again, buy the better offerings in this category to ensure you stay dry and comfortable.
• Base layer leggings: (long john's, spandex w/insulation, sweats) that can be worn under pants for colder conditions.  Wool and performance fabrics are best for layering.
• Golf pants: worn in cooler conditions that also meet dress requirements.  Seek performance fabrics with stretch and breathability.
• Check out our Limitless lightweight golf pants with 4-way stretch and breathability, designed to keep you comfortable for long days walking the links.
• Golf shorts: worn in warmer conditions that also meet dress requirements.  Performance fabrics with stretch, breathability and moisture wicking are ideal.
• Check out Limitless shorts that check all the performance boxes for golfing
• Jeans: for comfortable evening wear.  
• Underwear: obvious reasons...your choice briefs, boxers or banana hammock. 
• Dress pants: optional but certainly acceptable at dinner
• Golf shoes: comfortable water resistant/proof (ideally 2 pairs)
• You are going to be walking multiple miles (especially if you get in 36) over consecutive days
• There is always a chance of rain and you want your feat to stay dry and warm
• Other shoes
• Casual performance shoes: sneakers, running shoes, etc that are comfortable with performance benefits for travel and walking
• Dress shoes: to wear for dinner or social events
• Socks: multiple warm and performance sets for weather and comfort
• Check out our Clutch socks made from Graphene for amplified thermal management, breathability and additional foot cushioning to keep you cool and comfortable mile after mile.
• Golf balls - few sleeves
• You generally don't lose that many golf balls, especially if you have a caddy 
• That being said, if you don't have strong control and you are playing on the coast you may lose a few into the water
• You can always reload at course pro shops
• Golf gloves: ideally bring a couple rain and regular gloves to provide you flexibility with rain and ability to use a different glove if the other needs to dry out
• Hats: a couple caps and beanie (winter and shoulder seasons)  Again flexibility to change if weather is cold or gear gets wet. 
• Check out our WYLD1 performance hats that keep you cool and dry with fast action moisture wicking and breathability.
• Belt: helps keep those trousers on the hips
• Golf accessories: tees, ball markers, etc.  
• Clubs: the basics you normally play
• Depending on your game you may want to adjust pitching wedge selection with tight lies and driving irons for lower ball flight in wind off tee
• Bag cover: always nice to keep your clubs dry if raining hard 
• Golf travel bag: hard or soft bag to keep the clubs secure
• Dopp Kit:
• Usuals: for a trip 
• Pain relievers: to help with knees, back or a hangover
• Lip balm: sun and wind
• Sunscreen: the sun does come out at Bandon
• Contact solution: important if you wear contacts
• Documents and $:
• Drivers license: needed for plane, rental car and check-in
• Credit card: you can leverage everywhere
• Phone: you get reception throughout Bandon
• Plastic bags: ziplock or other secure mechanism to keep valuables dry in golf bag if weather gets nasty
• Medicine: don't forget it if the doctor ordered

Nice Have's:

• Sunglasses
• Water resistant/proof cap or bucket hat
• Visor 
• Extra pair of golf shoes in case yours are wet...can be hard to dry out with humidity at sea level.
• Cash: easier for paying caddies
• Water bottle: stay hydrated on course with all the walking
• Down or sweater vest: perfect for cooler but not cold conditions with shoulder and arm freedom
• Short-sleeve lightweight water resistant jacket: perfect for cooler and light rain conditions with shoulder and arm freedom
• Camera: if you want high quality photos of your trip
• Laptop/tablet: doesn't hurt to have a larger screen or check in with work if you're playing hooky.
• Watch: get time, temperature, email, etc
• GPS course accessory or programs: helpful if you don't have a caddy with limited distance markers on course
• Scope: to shoot distances if you don't have a caddy
• Neck warmer: doesn't hurt to have if its cold
• Water proof phone case: no need to worry if it gets wet
• Handkerchief of micro-fiber small towel: nice to have if conditions get wet and you need wipe your face nose or dry something else
• Bandaids: if you get a blister on your feet or cut somewhere becomes a requirement

Optional Have's:

• Earphones: to listen to music or watch movies on plane or ground transport
• Book: to read on plane or ground transport
• Playing cards: nice to have when traveling with friends for plan, ground transport and late night gambling action
• Umbrella: wind may deem this useless so would recommend a small one that can be effective but doesn't take up much space

Other things to consider:

• Pack a versatile single wearing of your golf gear in carryon in case your luggage is lost and you don't want to spend a fortune in pro shop getting completely outfitted
• Load up your golf bag with your shoes and extras to free up room and potentially reduce additional luggage airline fees. 
• Unscrew your woods from shaft to reduce likelihood of breaking during transportation
• ShipSticks so you don't have to deal with carrying your luggage and golf bag
• Use your smaller baggage piece as carryon so you don't have to take up additional space 
• Buy versatile golf apparel that can be worn on and off course
• Leave some luggage space for souvenirs 

Scotland can be a tricky one on what to pack as the weather conditions can vary especially during the shoulder seasons.  Also make sure to check your itinerary to see if courses, clubhouses, or restaurants have dress codes.  Below are the items that our team found to most valuable during our links golfing experiences:

Must Have's:

• Tops and bottoms: multiple versatile layering options for different weather conditions, comfort, performance and off-course
• Tops
• Long-sleeve water proof lightweight jacket that is loose for multiple-layers and flexible for swinging. Gor-Tex is always a reliable choice and is breathable. Break out the pocket book for a better brand/product.  Staying dry is critical when you are out in the elements for multiple hours walking.
• Long-sleeve base layer: compression helps to reduce bulkiness and are normally breathable. Wool and polyester perform best for layering.
• Short-sleeve base: compression helps reduce bulkiness and are normally breathable. Wool and polyester perform best for layering.  
• Mid-layer: for warmth/insulation that ideally has thermo regulation and moisture wicking so you can wear when cooler but also won't require you to take on/off with temperature swings.
• Check out the WYLD1 Beyond Quarter Zip with Graphene thermo-management that we specifically designed and tested for links golf elements
• Polos: both long and short sleeve to wear with base or by itself and can be worn on/off course
• Check out our Pure Merino Polos that also provides enhanced thermo-regulation and moisture wicking for warmer and cooler variable weather conditions, and serves as great layering piece. Wool also is anti-bacterial so it can be worn for multiple days without washing and won't stink.
• Casual: everyday and dress shirts for off-the-course wear
• Dress: check dress code at clubhouse and restaurants you are planning to attend that may require more formal dress code with jacket, button up, tie, slacks, shoes, etc.  Most places are casual but there are a few with more strict formal dress requirements.
• Bottoms
• Water proof lightweight pants that are loose for multiple-layers and flexible for swinging. Gor-Tex is always a reliable choice and is breathable. A higher priced offering in this category is suggested as there are notable differences in quality and you want to stay dry for 4hrs.
• Base layer leggings (long john's, spandex w/insulation, sweats) that can be worn under pants for colder conditions.  Wool or polyester based fabrics always work the best.
• Golf pants worn in cooler conditions that also meet dress requirements.  Performance materials are best suited for links conditions.
• Check out our Limitless lightweight golf pants with 4-way stretch and breathability, designed to keep you comfortable for long days walking the links.
• Golf shorts worn in warmer conditions that also meet dress requirements with some courses forbidding. Performance materials are best suited for links conditions.
• Check out Limitless shorts that check all the performance boxes for golfing
• Jeans for everyday wear off course.  
• Underwear: obvious reasons...your choice briefs, boxers or banana hammock.  Performance fabrics work best for the long distances you will be walking.
• Dress pants if required at clubhouse your are playing or dinning, or formal dinning at select restaurants and hotels
• Golf shoes: comfortable water resistant/proof (ideally 2 pairs)
• You are going to be walking multiple miles (especially if you get in 36) over consecutive days
• There is always a chance of rain (or snow when we went last time) and you want your feat to stay dry and warm
• Other shoes
• Casual performance shoes: sneakers, running shoes, etc that are comfortable with performance benefits for travel and walking
• Dress shoes: to wear for dinner or social events, especially if required per dress code at clubhouse or restaurant
• Socks: multiple warm and performance sets for weather and comfort
• Check out our Clutch socks made from Graphene for amplified thermal management, breathability and additional foot cushioning to keep you cool and comfortable mile after mile.
• Tie: if required per dress code at clubhouse or restaurant
• Golf balls - few sleeves
• You generally don't lose that many golf balls on the Scottish links courses, especially if you have a caddy 
• That being said, if you don't have strong control you may lose a few into the water or gorse bushes
• You can always reload at course pro shops
• Golf gloves: ideally bring a couple rain and regular gloves to provide you flexibility with rain and ability to use a different glove if the other needs to dry out
• Other gloves: if you are going in shoulder season or winter bring a pair of insulated and water proof winter gloves to keep you warm
• Hats: a couple caps and beanie.  Again flexibility to change if weather is cold or gear gets wet.  
• Belt: helps keep those trousers on the hips
• Golf accessories: tees, ball markers, etc.  Many course provide gift packs with green fees so you will also get some for use and to collect.
• Clubs: the basics you normally play
• Depending on your game you may want to adjust pitching wedge selection with tight lies
• You may want to bring a driving iron or adjust woods and hybrids since there is a lot of runout on links and lower loft can help keep it out of the wind
• Bag cover: always nice to keep your clubs dry if raining hard 
• Luggage with smaller baggage piece: take with you for day trips
• The course(s) you are going to play may require transportation so it is nice to have a small piece that you can put extra clothes in if you change your mind on what you want to wear or need to change between rounds.
• Golf travel bag: hard or soft bag to keep the clubs secure.  I find soft bags easier and they provide extra space if needed for clothes, shoes, etc.
• Unscrew your woods and remove heads from shafts and store in bag for travel.  Don't want to arrive with a snapped shaft and damaged head.
• Dopp Kit:
• Usuals: for a trip 
• Pain relievers: to help with knees, back or a hangover
• Lip balm: sun and wind
• Sunscreen: the sun does come out in Scotland
• Contact solution: important if you wear contacts
• Documents and $:
• Passport: don't leave home without it as it is required for visiting Scotland
• Drivers license: if you are going to rent a car and always helps to have backup ID in case 
• Credit card: accepted nearly everywhere and reduces need to carry cash
• Handicap certificate: is required at some courses to play or play off longer tee boxes 
• Copies: take copies/photos of front and back of your passport, drivers license and credit card. This will make life a lot easier if something is lost.  Also doesn't hurt to store the phone # of the US Embassy and credit cards in case you need it for quickly replacing. 
• Phone: check with your phone provider on Scotland options, coverage and charges.  Make sure to double check roaming and data charges as those can add up quickly.  Most hotels have wifi access so you can connect to data for free.  
• Plastic bags: ziplock or other secure mechanism to keep valuables dry in golf bag if weather gets nasty
• Medicine: don't forget it if the doctor ordered
• Travel converter: there are some hotels with multiple electric outlets but many will need an plug adapter if you are traveling from outside EU

Nice Have's:

• Sunglasses
• Water resistant/proof cap or bucket hat
• Visor 
• Extra pair of golf shoes in case yours are wet...can be hard to dry out with humidity at sea level.
• Cash: get some local currency from bank before departing
• Water bottle: stay hydrated on course with all the walking
• Flask(s): you might get thirsty out there and some courses are dry
• Down or sweater vest: perfect for cooler but not cold conditions with shoulder and arm freedom
• Short-sleeve lightweight water resistant jacket: perfect for cooler and light rain conditions with shoulder and arm freedom
• Camera: if you want high quality photos of your trip
• Laptop/tablet: doesn't hurt to have a larger screen or check in with work if you're playing hooky.
• Watch: get time, temperature, email, etc
• GPS course accessory or programs: helpful if you don't have a caddy with limited distance markers on course
• Scope: to shoot distances if you don't have a caddy
• Neck warmer: doesn't hurt to have if its cold
• Water proof phone case: no need to worry if it gets wet
• Handkerchief of micro-fiber small towel: nice to have if conditions get wet and you need wipe your face nose or dry something else
• Bandaids: if you get a blister on your feet or cut somewhere becomes a requirement

Optional Have's:

• Pen: for filling out paperwork and not relying on friend or stranger to borrow
• Earphones: to listen to music or watch movies on plane or ground transport
• Travel sleeping pillow: you may have overnight flight
• Book: to read on plane or ground transport
• Playing cards: nice to have when traveling with friends for plan, ground transport and late night gambling action
• Umbrella: wind may deem this useless so would recommend a small one that can be effective but doesn't take up much space

Other things to consider:

• Pack a versatile single wearing of your golf gear in carryon in case your luggage is lost and you don't want to spend a fortune in pro shop getting completely outfitted
• Load up your golf bag with your shoes and extras to free up room and potentially reduce additional luggage airline fees. 
• Use your smaller baggage piece as carryon so you don't have to take up additional space 
• Buy versatile golf apparel that can be worn on and off course
• Leave some luggage space for trip souvenirs