How to maximize quality and value in golfwear

Whatever your handicap is on the links, Style Points do count when it comes to golf.

Even if you're one who believes in letting your game do the talking, just imagine how much livelier the conversation would be when lacing up two-color golf shoes to go with crisply creased slacks, a tightly woven cotton shirt, and perhaps a straw hat for good measure?

Tiger Woods, winner of 13 major championships (and counting) and most recently runner-up in the 2008 Masters, recognizes the significance of his clothing while competing. His signature red shirt on the final round is perhaps the sport's most recognizable sartorial statement.

Woods is hardly alone in having a signature look. The late Payne Stewart was well known for his caps and knickers, an homage to golf's early days. (If the modern-day crowd needs a visual, just think "The Legend of Bagger Vance.")

Choosing what to wear for the course is not difficult, but getting quality pieces can be as significant an investment as purchasing the right clubs. For starters, check out shops that sell golf equipment such as Dick's Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, Edwin Watts Golf, Golfsmith and Golfers' Warehouse. Develop some perspective on the clothing lines that are out there, and which ones fit you best. You'll also get an idea of how much you'd like to spend. Keep in mind that these stores have sale days throughout the year.

For those who are interested in "the good stuff," I'll cut right to the chase: The Bobby Jones line is solid. And, it turns out, its online store has markdowns on shirts for men and women. The Bobby Jones Collection of mercerized cotton shirts are comfortable and do not wrinkle easily.

Other reputable brands include the Reebok-owned Greg Norman Collection; Ashworth; Cutter & Buck; and Ralph Lauren's Polo Golf and RLX lines; and Nike.

Now that the clothing part is out of the way, you can get back to the game. Although your upgraded attire may not necessarily shave off strokes from your handicap, you certainly will have gained Style Points.

Capish?