Double-sided vs. single-sided golf flags

The short answer

Choose a true double-sided flag when the design includes words, numbers or a sponsor name that has to read correctly from both directions, or when you want different art on each face. Choose a single-ply flag when the mark is simple and symmetrical, or when the flags are giveaways and practice-green pins. Both start from 12 flags at Get Custom Golf Flags, and the team will confirm the build after seeing your artwork. Browse custom golf pin flags or putting green and practice flags to see each in use.

Side by side

What a single-ply flag looks like from behind

A single-ply flag is printed on one layer, so the artwork also shows through to the reverse, but flipped. For a round badge or a plain colored panel that mirror image goes unnoticed. For a club name, a hole number or a sponsor line it turns into backwards lettering whenever the wind swings the flag the other way.

That is the main reason the build matters more on a golf course than on a flag that always faces one direction. A pin flag rotates all day, so every golfer eventually sees both faces.

What the liner does in a double-sided flag

A true double-sided flag is two separately printed plies with an opaque blockout liner sewn between them. The liner stops the flagstick, and the sun behind the flag, from shadowing through, so each face stays clean and legible. It also means the two faces do not have to match: one side can carry the course crest and the other a tournament mark.

The trade-off is weight. Two plies hang a little heavier than one, which some courses accept happily on a windy site and others avoid on a calm one.

Fit and the flagstick

Whichever build you pick, the sewn tube has to match the outside diameter of your flagstick. A tube that is too wide lets the flag ride up and spin; one that is too tight will not go on in cold weather. Measure one stick, send the number with your artwork, and the tube is made to suit it. Our guide on why pin flags ride up the flagstick explains the fitting in more detail.

Which orders suit which build

Single-ply suits event giveaways, backyard putting greens, simple one-mark logos and practice flags you expect to replace often.

Double-sided suits the main course set, tournament and commemorative pin flags, sponsor flags for a charity golf outing, and anything that will later be framed as an autograph or presentation flag.

What both builds share

The same free mockup arrives within 24 hours, you pay nothing until you approve it, and standard production and delivery takes about 2 weeks. Either build can be reordered one hole at a time, because Get Custom Golf Flags keeps your artwork on file. Fabric choice, printing and how long the flags last are covered in our guide to golf flag materials and construction.

The verdict

Words, numbers or sponsor names that must read from both sides: double-sided.

A simple mark, a giveaway or a practice flag: single-ply.

Not sure which your artwork needs? Send the file and a quantity and Get Custom Golf Flags will recommend a build and return a free mockup within 24 hours. Or request a quote now.