Golf Gear Heaven, Part 3

Editor's note: Part 1 of this series on golf gear examined irons and drivers. Part 2 looked at wedges and putters. Today, we bring you "everything else" you'll need to play like a pro, or just look like one.

By now, thanks to TheStreet.com's Good Life columns, hundreds of thousands of golfers have outfitted themselves with brand new clubs and are raring to take to the fairways for the first time this season.

While that's certainly admirable, the truth is that the clubs, though an extension of one's very soul, are only the beginning.

This is the year for golfers everywhere to truly commit to taking this noble pursuit to another level. Golf is characterized by both its links to a rich past and its promise of continuing evolution. You've already taken a big step in your personal evolution by purchasing those shiny new sticks. Now, in the midst of the Masters -- one of the most revered tournaments in the sport -- it's time to complete the transformation.

Plus-Fours and Such

The traditional uniform, consisting of a three-button polo shirt and slacks or shorts, can be found at almost any clothing retailer, and unscientific observations suggest it's the outfit favored by 99% of the world's golfers.

Not that there's anything necessarily wrong with that, but if looking like the crowd is your comfort zone, at least reward yourself by acquiring your apparel at a higher-end retailer.

Nordstrom, for instance, gives you the option to choose from short-sleeved, collared shirts bearing the brands of Nike, Cutter & Buck, Callaway Golf and Tommy Bahama, just to name a few. Expect to pay anywhere from $55 to $90 for each shirt.

If it's not yet warm enough where you are, pick up the $220 Tiger Woods Storm-Fit convertible jacket. For a look that's more European, or maybe a bit Charles Howell III, Triple Five Soul sells a form-fitting reversible golf jacket for $154 that would be at home on the fairways at Le Golf National outside Paris or the links at St. Andrews in Scotland.

Now let's be serious. Anybody can go to the mall and pick up slacks. But you're not just anybody. Make 2006 the year you give your best Bobby Jones impression and go with knickers every time you tee up. For about $100 you can set yourself apart from the rest of your drably-clad playing partners.

In fact, go all out. Golfknicker.com is an excellent source for completing the outfit with argyle socks, sweater vests and golf caps. The total package can be yours starting for around $200.

To view Chris Nichols' video take on today's Good Life segment, click here.