Few sports enthusiasts spend as much time in the sun as golfers. After all, part of the appeal of the game is that it takes place in the great outdoors, with abundant sunshine and wonderful weather. But all that sunshine can come with a price, and it is up to golfers everywhere to protect themselves from the damaging rays of the sun as much as possible.

Unfortunately, many golfers fail to take sun protection seriously. Some weekend golfers may feel that being out in the sun for a few hours and a quick round of golf does not warrant any kind of sun protection. Others may simply forget to bring sunscreen along when they pack up for a day on the links. But no matter what the reason, that lack of sun protection can have dire consequences. By now the link between sun exposure and deadly skin cancers is well known, and golfers who play without sun protection do so at great risk.

The good news is that there are plenty of ways for golfers to protect themselves when they head out to their favorite courses. One of the simplest and most effective solutions is to simply slather on the sunscreen before leaving home. For added protection, golfers can bring an extra tube of sunscreen along and pack it in the golf cart.

Golfers can also choose from a wide array of hats, scarves and other clothing items designed specifically for sun protection. Sports apparel companies have created special golf caps that not only reflect the harmful rays of the sun but feature built-in sun protection as well. These hats look great on the course, and they have the added benefit of shielding your eyes from the sun while you play.

Modern golf shirts can provide even more sun protection. Specially designed fabrics provide golfers with a way to stay cool in even the hottest weather while enjoying top notch sun protection at the same time. If you love to golf, it is a good idea to stack your summer wardrobe with an assortment of these specialty golf shirts.

It is of course a good idea to keep that sunscreen handy as well, even if you already have your sun-reflecting golf hat and specially designed golf shirt. Properly applied sunscreen helps to protect your face, hands and arms from the sun, something that even the best golf clothing cannot do.

Sun protection is an essential part of the game of golf, and it is up to you to protect yourself while you play. Knowing that you are protected can make the game more fun, and allow you to play even more often.