Masters Prep

If you are lucky enough to have a ticket to The Masters, there is a certain look you need to go for: comfortable, but appropriate.  The same look works for either a practice round on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, as well as any of the tournament rounds.  Remember, as a patron, you are an abassedor of one of the greatest sporting events all year, and you don’t want to be that guy…

You’ll see guys there in attire that looks like they are ready to tee off…all technical gear, neon, and golf shoes.  Avoid this at all costs.  You aren’t there to play, you are there to watch and enjoy.  Given that your first stop will be at the merchandise tent, you’ll have a bag full of goodies, but don’t break them out on the course.  It’s like wearing a t-shirt of the band you are going to see.  Be yourself.  Comfort and utility come into play; here’s how to do it:

1. A Good Hat:  Go with something good.  I prefer white hats, and this South Carolina hat by State Traditions will do the trick.  They are made by the same company that makes the Masters hats, so you know it’ll fit.
2. A Cool Belt:  You’ll see belts from all over the place: country clubs, Argentinian polo belts, needlepoints, etc.  Don’t get left in the dust…bring out the big guns and show a little flare.
3. A Comfortable Polo:  Pay some respect to the course and wear a collared shirt.  Something comfortable and lightweight is just what the doctor ordered.  These new polos by Onward Reserve feature a subtle logo (thank the Lord) and look great even after eight hours of walking around the grounds.
4. A Great Pair of Sunglasses:  It is going to be sunny, so protect your eyes.  A trick here: don’t wear the $300 Persols.  Instead, go with something that won’t break the bank if they don’t make it home with you.
5. An Appropriate Pair of Shorts:  By ‘appropriate’, I mean nice, and with the right inseam.  Board shorts and the long dongs should NOT be worn at Augusta National.  Sid Mashburn knows a thing or two about the right inseam, and his lightweight twills will hit the spot.
6. A Koozie:  Even though the beers only cost a few bucks, they do warm up in the Georgia heat.  Bring a koozie to keep them cold.
7. A Rain Jacket:  Don’t let a rain shower deter your trip to The Masters.  They’ll keep playing as long as there isn’t any lightning, so bring something packable that will allow you to stay out on the course.  This Penfield jacket is what you are looking for.
8. A Comfortable Pair of Shoes:  Probably the most important item on the list; you’ll be walking EVERYWHERE.  From the car deep in the parking lot to the course, up and down the galleries, all over the grounds…your feet will thank you after you’ve racked up a few miles.

What did I miss?