What Towels Do Golf Pros Use? A Complete Guide to Tour-Style Golf Towels

Quick Answer

Golf professionals commonly use large, absorbent golf towels made from waffle-weave microfiber or cotton terry cloth to keep clubfaces, grooves, golf balls, and hands clean. Club Glove is a recognized choice for tour-style caddie towels, while Titleist, Callaway, and other established golf brands offer their own performance and traditional towels. The best option depends on how you play, the weather, and whether you prioritize cleaning power, moisture absorption, or convenience.

What to look for in a pro-style golf towel

  • Waffle-weave microfiber: Its textured surface helps lift dirt, grass, and debris from club grooves.
  • Tour-sized design: A larger towel gives you room to separate wet and dry cleaning areas.
  • Reliable absorption: Choose a material that handles morning dew, rain, and sweaty hands.
  • Easy attachment: A grommet, clip, or center slit keeps the towel accessible on your golf bag.
  • Simple maintenance: A machine-washable towel is easier to keep clean throughout the season.

The practical takeaway

  • For most golfers: Start with a medium or large waffle-weave microfiber towel.
  • For wet conditions: Carry a separate dry towel to protect your grip and hands.

Wondering what towels golf pros use? The answer comes down to more than a familiar logo hanging from a tour bag.

When choosing a golf towel, I would focus on how well it cleans clubfaces, manages moisture, and stays within reach during a round. This guide explains the materials, popular brands, sizes, and practical features that matter when building a tour-inspired golf towel setup.

What towels do golf pros use on tour?

Caddie cleaning an iron with a waffle-weave microfiber towel beside a golf bag on the course.

Golf pros and their caddies use several types of towels, with waffle-weave microfiber and cotton terry cloth among the common choices. The exact brand and design vary by player, sponsorship arrangements, personal preference, and the conditions on the course.

Club Glove: A recognizable tour-style option

Club Glove is known for its caddie towels and textured microfiber designs. Its larger towels suit golfers who want plenty of material for cleaning clubfaces, removing moisture, and maintaining separate wet and dry areas.

A waffle texture creates raised surfaces and recessed channels that help capture dirt and debris. This makes the design particularly useful when iron grooves collect grass after an approach shot.

Titleist and Callaway: Familiar golf equipment brands

Titleist offers traditional terry and performance-oriented towel options, while Callaway sells towels in several designs and sizes. Both are worth considering if you prefer equipment from an established golf brand.

Brand recognition alone doesn’t guarantee that a towel will suit your routine. Compare the material, dimensions, attachment method, and washing instructions before paying extra for a logo.

Do all professional golfers use the same towel?

No. There isn’t one universal towel used by every professional golfer, and a towel visible on television doesn’t establish that every player on tour uses the same product.

Professional players may receive branded equipment through sponsorships, but their cleaning habits and towel preferences can differ. The useful lesson is to understand the features that help them keep equipment ready for the next shot.

  • For club cleaning: Look for a textured, absorbent surface.
  • For sweaty hands: Keep a clean, dry section available.
  • For changing weather: Consider carrying a second towel.

That approach matters more than buying a particular model simply because it resembles one seen on a professional’s bag.

Section takeaway: Tour-style towels prioritize practical cleaning, absorption, and convenient access. Club Glove, Titleist, and Callaway offer useful starting points, but no single brand is right for every golfer.

Which golf towel material works best?

Microfiber is a strong all-around choice for cleaning golf clubs, while cotton terry cloth excels at familiar, absorbent everyday drying. Waffle-weave microfiber is particularly appealing because its textured surface helps remove debris from club grooves.

Waffle-weave microfiber

Microfiber uses very fine synthetic fibers, commonly polyester, polyamide, or a blend of the two. A waffle-weave pattern adds texture and surface channels that help the towel pick up dirt and moisture.

This construction works well when your wedges and irons collect grass, damp soil, or sand during a round. It also gives you a practical way to clean clubfaces without carrying a bulky bath towel.

  • Best for: Cleaning grooves and clubfaces.
  • Main advantage: Textured cleaning surface in a compact design.
  • Potential drawback: Some microfiber towels can retain odors if stored damp.

Cotton terry cloth

Cotton terry cloth uses loops of fiber to absorb water and dry hands effectively. It has a familiar, soft feel and works well for everyday golf when you want a towel that handles perspiration and general moisture.

Its looped construction can also pick up debris, although a smooth cotton towel may not clean packed club grooves as conveniently as a purpose-built waffle towel. Cotton can take longer to dry when thoroughly saturated.

  • Best for: Drying hands and general-purpose use.
  • Main advantage: Comfortable feel and familiar absorbency.
  • Potential drawback: A heavy cotton towel can become cumbersome when wet.

Microfiber versus cotton: Which should you buy?

For most golfers who want one towel for cleaning clubs and handling changing conditions, I’d start with waffle-weave microfiber. Choose cotton if your main priority is drying hands and you prefer a traditional towel texture.

FeatureWaffle microfiberCotton terry
Club groove cleaningExcellent practical choiceGood for general cleaning
Hand dryingGood, depending on constructionVery good everyday option
TextureRaised waffle patternSoft, looped surface
Drying behaviorDepends on thickness and blendCan remain heavy when saturated
Best matchClub-focused cleaningGeneral drying and comfort

These are general material characteristics, not laboratory rankings of every towel on the market. Fiber blend, fabric density, weave, and overall construction can change how an individual towel performs.

What is a waffle-weave golf towel?

A waffle-weave golf towel is a towel with a textured, grid-like fabric pattern designed to help collect dirt and moisture. Golfers often choose this construction because its surface works well for removing grass and debris from iron and wedge grooves.

For reliable cleaning, dampen one section slightly and leave another section dry. Avoid rubbing abrasive grit across clubfaces, and rinse away accumulated dirt before it scratches equipment.

Section takeaway: Waffle-weave microfiber is the strongest starting point for club cleaning, while cotton terry remains a sensible option for drying hands. Fabric construction matters as much as the material label.

Which golf towel brands are worth considering?

Club Glove, Titleist, Callaway, and PING are sensible brands to compare when shopping for a golf towel. The right choice depends on fabric, size, cleaning needs, and how easily the towel attaches to your bag.

Rather than assuming one brand dominates professional golf, compare the actual product specifications and choose the design that matches your routine.

Club Glove Caddie Towel

Club Glove is worth exploring if you want a larger, caddie-style microfiber towel with a textured surface. This format gives you room to clean clubs, wipe away moisture, and reserve a section for drying.

Consider it if club maintenance is your main concern and you prefer a functional design over decorative features. Check the current product dimensions and attachment details before ordering.

Titleist Players Terry Towel and StaDry Performance Towel

Titleist offers both traditional terry-style towels and performance-oriented designs, including the Players Terry Towel and StaDry Performance Towel. They give golfers two different directions to explore within the same equipment brand.

The terry option makes sense if you like a familiar towel texture, while a weather-oriented design may appeal to golfers who play through damp conditions. Check the manufacturer’s current specifications to confirm the fabric, dimensions, and intended use of the exact model.

Callaway Tour and microfiber towels

Callaway’s towel range includes tour-style, tri-fold, and microfiber options. This variety helps golfers compare traditional bag towels with more specialized designs.

Look at the construction and dimensions rather than assuming every towel carrying the Callaway logo offers identical cleaning or drying performance. A simpler model may meet your needs just as well as a more expensive one.

PING and other alternatives

PING offers player-oriented towel designs, while other brands sell magnetic towels, compact putting towels, and larger caddie-style options. These alternatives can be useful if access, storage, or a particular cleaning routine matters more than the logo.

Here is a practical comparison of the main options to investigate in 2026.

Brand or modelWhat to considerBest suited to
Club Glove Caddie TowelLarge caddie-style format and textured microfiber constructionFrequent club cleaning
Titleist Players Terry TowelTraditional terry constructionEveryday drying and general use
Titleist StaDry Performance TowelWeather-oriented product designGolfers comparing wet-weather options
Callaway Tour TowelTour-style format and attachment detailsTraditional golf-bag setup
Callaway Odyssey Microfiber TowelMicrofiber constructionGolfers seeking a textured synthetic towel
PING Player TowelPlayer-focused bag towel designGolfers comparing established brands

Product names and availability can change, so confirm current specifications and prices with the manufacturer or retailer before buying. The table compares product types and intended use, not independently measured cleaning performance.

For official product details, start with the Titleist website or Callaway Golf.

Section takeaway: Start with the fabric and size, then narrow your shortlist by brand. A well-matched towel from a familiar manufacturer is more useful than an expensive model chosen only for its tour appearance.

What size and design should you choose?

The best golf towel size depends on whether you clean several clubs during a round, walk with a lightweight bag, or prefer a compact towel near the green. A larger towel gives you more usable surface, while a smaller one takes up less room and is easier to manage.

Large tour-style towels

A large towel gives you enough material to separate wet and dry sections. This is especially helpful when your clubs collect mud or grass and you need a clean patch for drying your hands.

However, a towel that hangs too low can drag on wet turf or brush against the ground when you walk. Check the hanging length against your bag before choosing the largest model available.

Medium caddie towels

A medium towel balances cleaning area with portability. It suits golfers who want to maintain their clubs without carrying a bulky accessory.

For a typical weekend round, this size is often the most practical starting point. You can still use separate wet and dry areas if the towel has enough surface area.

Compact towels and magnetic designs

Compact towels work well for quick hand drying, wiping a putter, or keeping a small cleaning cloth close at hand. Magnetic designs can attach to compatible metal surfaces, although placement and attachment strength vary by model.

These towels are convenient, but they may not provide enough clean fabric for repeated club maintenance throughout 18 holes. A compact towel works best as a supplement when your main towel handles heavier cleaning.

What attachment style works best?

Choose an attachment system that keeps the towel accessible without interfering with your clubs or bag pockets. Common options include a grommet with a clip, a carabiner, a center slit, and a magnetic attachment.

  • Clip or carabiner: Useful for attaching a towel to a bag ring or suitable loop.
  • Center slit: Allows certain towels to hang over a club or support without a separate clip.
  • Magnetic attachment: Convenient where a compatible metal surface is available.
  • Tri-fold design: Keeps a towel organized and compact on the bag.

Whichever design you choose, make sure the towel stays secure while walking and can be removed easily for washing.

Section takeaway: Medium and large towels are better suited to repeated club cleaning, while compact and magnetic designs emphasize convenience. Match the hanging length and attachment style to your bag.

How do professionals use golf towels?

Professional golfers and their caddies use towels to remove debris from clubfaces, keep grips dry, and manage moisture throughout a round. The important habit is cleaning equipment consistently rather than waiting until dirt becomes difficult to remove.

Why clean club grooves before a shot?

Club grooves help manage moisture and debris between the clubface and golf ball. Grass or dirt on the face can affect the consistency of contact, particularly when hitting from damp grass or rough.

A clean towel helps remove loose debris before your next shot. For stubborn dirt, use an appropriate club-cleaning brush and avoid aggressive rubbing that could damage the finish.

The wet-and-dry towel method

A useful tour-inspired routine is to keep one section slightly damp for cleaning and another section dry for hands and grips. This reduces the chance of transferring moisture back onto equipment you’ve just cleaned.

  1. Prepare the towel: Lightly dampen one section before the round if conditions call for it.
  2. Clean the clubface: Wipe away grass and dirt after shots, paying attention to the grooves.
  3. Dry the club: Use a separate dry section to remove leftover moisture.
  4. Protect your grip: Dry your hands before taking your stance.
  5. Refresh as needed: Rinse dirty sections and replace saturated towels when possible.

This routine is especially useful after bunker shots, when sand can cling to a wedge, and after approach shots from wet grass.

Why keep a second towel?

A second towel lets you separate club cleaning from hand drying. One can handle dirt and moisture while the other stays relatively clean for your hands, grips, and other equipment.

I recommend this setup for golfers who regularly play in humid weather, early-morning dew, or occasional rain. It also helps when one towel becomes too dirty to clean a club effectively.

What should golfers know about equipment-cleaning rules?

Routine towel cleaning is a normal part of golf, but cleaning equipment is different from using a training aid or changing equipment during a round. For questions about permitted equipment and competition procedures, consult the official USGA website and The R&A Rules of Golf resources.

Always follow competition conditions and any applicable local rules. A towel is a simple accessory, but good equipment habits support a more consistent pre-shot routine.

Section takeaway: Clean clubfaces regularly, keep grips dry, and separate dirty cleaning areas from clean drying areas. A two-towel system is a practical upgrade for golfers who play in damp or humid conditions.

How do you choose the right golf towel?

Golfer comparing microfiber and dry golf towels beside an open golf bag before a round

The right golf towel should fit your cleaning routine, bag setup, and typical course conditions. You don’t need the most expensive tour-branded model to keep your clubs clean and your hands dry.

Choose according to your playing conditions

Think about the conditions you encounter most often rather than buying for an occasional round in extreme weather. Your normal playing environment helps determine the material, size, and number of towels you need.

  • Hot, humid conditions: Consider a quick-drying microfiber towel and a second towel for dry hands.
  • Wet mornings: Carry a separate dry towel and keep it protected inside your bag until needed.
  • Dry, dusty courses: Choose a towel with enough texture and surface area to remove loose dirt.
  • Frequent walking: Choose a manageable size that won’t drag on the ground.
  • Cart golf: A larger towel may be convenient if storage space isn’t an issue.

Set a sensible budget

A basic towel can do the job if its material and size suit your needs. Premium designs may offer more specialized textures, magnetic attachments, branded graphics, or other convenience features.

Compare the current price, fabric, dimensions, attachment hardware, and washing instructions before deciding. A higher price doesn’t automatically mean better cleaning performance.

Check the construction before buying

Product photographs can make towels look similar even when their fabrics and dimensions differ. Read the manufacturer’s specifications and check whether the towel suits your preferred cleaning method.

  • Confirm the exact dimensions and material composition.
  • Check whether a clip, grommet, or magnetic feature comes included.
  • Read the washing instructions before using detergents or fabric softeners.
  • Look for a secure attachment that works with your golf bag.
  • Choose a color and design that you can identify easily among your accessories.

How to keep your golf towel in good condition

Wash your towel when it accumulates dirt, grass, sunscreen, or unpleasant odors. Follow the care label and allow the towel to dry completely before storing it in a closed pocket.

For microfiber towels, avoid fabric softeners if the manufacturer advises against them because residue can affect absorbency. Wash heavily soiled towels separately when needed, and inspect clips or magnets periodically for wear.

A clean towel is more useful than a premium towel that stays damp and dirty between rounds. Good maintenance also helps you get more life from your purchase.

Section takeaway: Match your towel to your climate, bag, and cleaning habits. Check construction and care instructions, and keep a second towel available if wet conditions are common.

Golf towel FAQs

What towels do golf pros use most often?

Professional golfers and caddies use a range of towels, including waffle-weave microfiber and cotton terry designs. Club Glove, Titleist, Callaway, and other established brands offer golf towels, but individual preferences and sponsorships vary.

Why do golf towels have a waffle pattern?

The waffle pattern creates a textured surface that helps lift dirt, grass, and moisture from clubfaces. Golfers often prefer this design for cleaning iron and wedge grooves during a round.

Is microfiber or cotton better for golf?

Microfiber is a strong choice for cleaning clubfaces and grooves, especially in a waffle weave. Cotton terry cloth is comfortable and absorbent for drying hands, so the better option depends on your main use.

How big should a golf towel be?

A medium or large towel provides enough surface area for repeated club cleaning and separating wet and dry sections. Smaller towels suit quick drying and compact setups, but may need more frequent cleaning or replacement.

Do professional golfers carry two towels?

Some golfers and caddies use multiple towels to separate club cleaning from hand drying. Carrying two is a practical strategy, especially in humid weather or when clubs frequently collect mud, sand, and grass.

How often should I wash my golf towel?

Wash your golf towel whenever dirt, sunscreen, or moisture builds up, and whenever it develops an unpleasant odor. Follow the care label, remove heavy debris before washing, and dry it thoroughly before storage.

Are expensive golf towels worth it?

A premium towel can be worthwhile if its material, size, attachment system, or durability meets your needs. However, a reasonably priced microfiber towel can handle routine club cleaning effectively, so compare practical features before paying for a brand name.

Final takeaway: Choose a towel that works as hard as you do

The answer to what towels golf pros use isn’t a single brand or model. Waffle-weave microfiber is an excellent starting point for club cleaning, while cotton terry and specialized performance towels offer alternatives for different needs.

If I were building a practical setup, I’d start with a medium or large microfiber towel, add a separate towel for drying hands, and prioritize easy washing over decorative extras. That combination gives you a dependable routine without requiring a professional player’s equipment budget.

Before your next round, check your current towel for worn fabric, persistent odors, and poor absorbency. Replacing an unsuitable towel and keeping it clean can make routine equipment care simpler throughout the season.

Author

  • linksatsunsetridge

    I’m Juel Ahmed, a passionate golfer and gear researcher. I share practical golf tips, honest equipment reviews, and helpful guides to help players choose better gear and enjoy every round.