Malbon Golf: Redefining Golf Apparel with a Modern Twist
Origins
Founded in 2017 by Stephen and Erica Malbon, Malbon Golf emerged in Los Angeles, California, with the mission to rejuvenate the sport of golf by blending it with contemporary culture. Stephen, with a background in creative arts and media, and Erica, co-founder of boutique spa The Now, combined their passions to create a brand that bridges the gap between traditional golf and modern lifestyle.
Ownership
Malbon Golf is a privately held company, with Stephen and Erica Malbon serving as the co-founders and creative directors. Their hands-on approach ensures that the brand’s vision of making golf more accessible and stylish remains at the forefront of its operations.
Aesthetic
Malbon Golf is renowned for its fusion of streetwear and classic golf attire, introducing bold designs, vibrant prints, and relaxed fits that challenge traditional golf fashion norms. The brand’s aesthetic appeals to a younger, style-conscious demographic, aiming to make golf apparel both functional on the course and fashionable off it.
Signature Pieces
- Sweater Vests – Notably worn by professional golfer Jason Day, these vests feature distinctive graphics and have sparked conversations about modern golf fashion.
- Camp Collar Shirts – Combining comfort with style, these shirts showcase bold patterns and are suitable for both the golf course and casual outings
- Ritter Padded Vest – A versatile piece offering warmth and flexibility, designed to be functional during play and stylish in everyday settings.
- Washed Cotton Twill Chinos – Merging classic tailoring with modern cuts, these chinos provide a comfortable fit suitable for various occasions.
- Winston Rope Hat – A minimalist yet trendy accessory that complements the brand’s apparel line.
Collaborations
Malbon Golf has engaged in strategic partnerships to further its influence in both the golf and fashion industries:
- Nike Golf – Collaborated on gear that merges Nike’s performance technology with Malbon’s contemporary designs.
- Beats by Dre – Released a limited-edition Beats Pill+ speaker, aiming to enhance the golfing experience with music, symbolizing the fusion of sport and lifestyle.
- Jones Sports Co. – Partnered to create stylish and functional golf bags that reflect both brands’ commitment to quality and design.
Impact on Golf Fashion
Malbon Golf has played a pivotal role in transforming golf apparel by introducing streetwear elements into traditional golf fashion. This approach has attracted a younger, more diverse audience to the sport, challenging its historically conservative image. The brand’s influence is evident in professional circuits, with golfers like Jason Day adopting Malbon’s distinctive style, signaling a shift towards more personalized and fashion-forward attire in golf.
The Future
Looking ahead, Malbon Golf aims to continue its expansion globally, opening flagship stores in key markets and exploring new collaborations that align with its vision. The brand remains committed to redefining golf culture, making it more inclusive and reflective of contemporary fashion trends.