Glenmuir: Knitting Sustainability into Golf Clothing History

The story of Glenmuir is a journey through time, beginning in a small knitwear factory where founder Andrew MacDougall’s passion and pride set the foundation for what would become a beacon of Scottish craftsmanship in the golf apparel industry.

In the early 1900s, Glenmuir solidified its commitment to excellence by innovating a new steam driven machine to craft fancy patterned argyle golf socks, stockings and hosiery. This invention marked the beginning of a legacy of unmatched craftsmanship, deeply rooted in the rich textile tradition of Scotland.

Andrew MacDougall and Co

As the decades unfolded, Glenmuir evolved to meet the specific needs of golfers, launching its first golf-specific apparel in the 1970s. The brand quickly became renowned for its club-embroidered golf sweaters, which became staples at professional golf tournaments, luxury resorts, and prestigious clubs worldwide.

By 1987, Glenmuir’s reputation for quality and reliability in golf clothing was so esteemed that it became the Official Supplier for Europe’s Ryder Cup Team—a partnership that would highlight over three decades of commitment to golf’s highest standards. The 1990s saw Glenmuir’s expansion to over 30 countries, earning global recognition and becoming an Official Licensee of The Open, celebrating the true spirit of golf.

Sam Torrance with Bruce Forsyth in 1980 and Richard Branson with Colin Mongomerie in 2012

Entering the new millennium, Glenmuir embraced sustainability, launching the largest natural fibre collection in golf. This initiative reflected a commitment to sustainable luxury, catering to the discerning golfer with products that did not compromise on performance or responsibility.

Today, Glenmuir continues to lead the way in sustainable golf clothing, with 75% of its collection now made from sustainable natural fibres or recycled performance fabrics. The brand boasts the largest collection of sustainable golf clothing worldwide, underpinned by a range of eco-friendly processes:

  • Recycled Materials: Utilising recycled polyester yarns that reduce landfill waste without sacrificing performance.
  • Natural Fibres: Offering the largest collection in golf of lambswool and merino wool knitwear, ethically and sustainably sourced, biodegradable, and crafted in Scotland and Italy.
  • Better Cotton Initiative (BCI): Ensuring all cotton is sourced through BCI to support sustainable farming practices and communities.
  • PFC-Free Finishes: Implementing plant-based water-repellent technology to protect both the wearer and the environment.
  • Eco-Friendly Packaging: Emphasizing sustainability right down to the packaging and brochures, made from recycled materials and printed using carbon-neutral processes.

Glenmuir Factory and The victorious 2010 European Ryder Cup Team

As Glenmuir celebrates over 130 years of heritage, the company remains a family-owned business, dedicated to preserving the legacy of quality golf clothing while paving the way for future generations with innovative, sustainable practices.
Born in 1891, made for today, Glenmuir stands proud as a leader not just in golf apparel but in environmental stewardship within the golf industry. As they embark on 2025 and beyond, Glenmuir is excited to continue dressing golfers around the world in golf clothing that honours the past, embraces the present, and secures the future.

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As an avid golfer since the age of eleven Dan lives and breathes all things golf.  With a current handicap of eleven he gets out and plays as often as his work life (and girlfriend) allows. Dan confesses to still being like a kid at Christmas when it comes to seeing the latest golf equipment. Having served as GolfPunk’s Deputy Editor, and resident golf geek for the past 13 years and working for golf's oldest brand, John Letters Dan brings to GOLF RETAILING an excellent understanding of the sector.