Bib
A bib is the vest a caddie wears over their clothing so that they are recognisable on the course.
The bib, also called the caddie vest, is part of the official appearance of caddies at tournaments. The vest is usually plain and carries the name or the starting number of the player on the back. This way referees, spectators and fellow players can see at first glance to whom the caddie belongs. In the professional game the bib is compulsory; at amateur tournaments it is common depending on the organiser. The vests are usually provided by the organiser or the club.
On a normal round without a caddie you rarely come across the bib. It looks different when you play a tournament with a caddie service. Example: you tee off in a pro-am, and at the tee your caddie is waiting with a vest bearing your name. They carry the bag, advise you on club selection and read the putts with you. The bib signals: this companion is officially accredited and knows the rules. Forecaddies at big tournaments also wear such vests when they watch balls on the fairways.
A common misconception: the bib does not make the caddie a player. They may advise you and touch the ball in certain cases, but they never play a stroke themselves. If the caddie breaks the rules, it can mean penalty strokes for you as the player, because you bear the responsibility for their behaviour. If you play privately with a caddie, for example at facilities with a caddie tradition, you usually do not need a bib — that is a tournament matter. The article on the caddie explains the tasks of the companion during the round.
FAQ
Do I need a bib on a normal round?
No, the bib is purely a tournament matter. It serves to identify caddies for referees and spectators at official competitions. If you play privately with a caddie, they do not need a vest.
May a caddie with a bib play a stroke or play the ball themselves?
No, they may advise you, carry the bag and in certain cases touch the ball, for example when marking on the green. They may never play a stroke. If your caddie breaks the rules, you as the player bear the responsibility — that can mean penalty strokes for you.
Why does the bib carry the player's name?
So that it is clear at first glance to whom the companion belongs. At big tournaments with dozens of caddies on the course, this is the simplest orientation for the committee, fellow players and spectators. The vest is usually provided by the organiser or the club.