
9 Tips For Playing Golf In Winter
- Keep playing. Yes, it might sound obvious – but keeping up the momentum is vital at this time of year. ...
- Make sure you have the right winter clothes. Playing at your best requires feeling comfortable in what you’re wearing. ...
- Have the correct equipment. Playing golf in winter comes with unpredictability, so having equipment that can tackle a range of climates – from wind and rain to frost – ...
- Keep your golf balls warm. It’s believed that for every ten degrees the temperature drops, a golf ball will carry two yards shorter.
- Make the most of the driving range. We’re all guilty of making excuses for not going outside in the cold winter months. ...
- Take lessons. Whether at the driving range, down at the club’s practice area or on the deserted course, a series of lessons could make all the difference to your ...
- Use a golf simulator. Golf simulators are a great way to help your game and let’s face it – practising indoors is a lot more appealing.
- Buy a net. If you have space, it might be an option to buy your own golf net so you can practise in the comfort of your own home.
- Read and watch. It’s amazing how much you can learn about golf without actually swinging a club or hitting a ball. ...
- Keep playing. Yes, it might sound obvious – but keeping up the momentum is vital at this time of year. ...
- Make sure you have the right winter clothes. ...
- Have the correct equipment. ...
- Keep your golf balls warm. ...
- Make the most of the driving range. ...
- Take lessons. ...
- Use a golf simulator. ...
- Buy a net.
What should golf courses do in the winter?
Jan 15, 2021 · Here are 7 keys to playing through the cold and ice and snow. Walk, don’t ride. If you really want to feel the wind-chill factor, hop onto …
How to practice your golf swing in the winter?
When I play golf in the cold (usually 40 degrees and below), there are several pieces of clothing that are essential to playing good golf: Long underwear/leggings – This is an absolute must in cold weather. If you don’t already own a pair, I’ll just say it.. …
What are the winter rules in golf?
Nov 24, 2020 · How to play golf in cold weather, according to low handicaps 1. Loosen up inside. Dylan Dethier (+3.3 handicap): Let’s start with some pre-round basics: Loosen up inside, where it’s... 2. Start slow. Luke Kerr-Dineen (2.5 handicap): …
When is it too cold to play golf?
Stretches for Winter Golf. If you’re not the kind of person that stretches before you play, you might want to change your routine for winter golf. If you thin or chunk your first tee shot, it can send ripples through your body in the cold weather. Instead, find a warm place inside the clubhouse and get your body ready with some light stretching. Your back, knees, and arms will thank you.

How do people play golf in winter?
Can you play golf through winter?
How can I play golf better in the winter?
- Invest in high-quality outerwear. ...
- Change your golf balls. ...
- Practise your short game. ...
- Try a snood. ...
- Wear a base layer. ...
- Get a good pair of wet weather gloves. ...
- Carry your golf bag. ...
- Keep your golf balls warm.
How cold is too cold to golf?
What do golfers wear in cold weather?
Is it harder to play golf in the winter?
Is golfing in cold weather bad for clubs?
How do I keep my golf balls warm in cold weather?
Can I microwave a golf ball?
Can you damage your driver in cold weather?
Is it cold at top golf in winter?
How to play through the cold and ice?
Walk, don’t ride. If you really want to feel the wind-chill factor, hop onto a golf cart and whip around the course.
When is the best time to upgrade your golf set?
Winter is a great time to upgrade your set. Schedule a fitting with the experts at our sister company, True Spec Golf.
What does "free drops" mean in golf?
We mean free drops when balls go missing under leaves or vanish in the slush and snow. Go easy on yourself. The conditions you’re up against are hard enough. Post your score, or don’t. If you’re going by the strict letter of the law, you might not be able to post your score for handicap purposes.
What to put in your golf bag?
It’s not a bad idea to stash one in your bag. Rain gloves and hand warmers. Of all the parts of your body you’ll want to keep warm, your hands are probably the most important. Lose the feeling in them, and you’ll never find your swing. Waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking socks.
What to do when it rains on golf?
Get yourself a good pair of wet weather and winter playing gloves. Keeping your hands dry and warm are crucial to enjoying your golf through the weekend. A wet weather glove is a must-buy and will help you keep things under control when it rains.
How to get more distance off a golf driver?
If your driver isn't adjustable, tee it up slightly higher and swing more on the up . These tips will help you get more distance off the tee.
How many yards does a golf ball carry?
The rule of thumb is that for every ten degrees by which the temperature drops, a golf ball will carry two yards shorter. Clearly then, there’s a premium for keeping your golf balls as toasty as possible. One of the easiest ways of doing this is to keep it in your pocket from green to tee and whilst it has been marked.
What to wear when it's not raining?
When it’s not raining you don’t always want to be wearing your waterproof trousers and a pair of long johns will really help your legs stay warm as the chilly winds get up. 9. Keep your hands warm. When your hands are too cold, you lose feeling in them and golf becomes almost impossible.
What does a snood do in winter?
When those winter winds come in, a snood will keep your neck warm and will stop the cold air going down to your body. They’re also great for pulling over your face when the winds really get up.
What happens when your hands are too cold?
When your hands are too cold, you lose feeling in them and golf becomes almost impossible. Buy a pair of winter mitts and drop a couple of hand warmers in them to keep your hands toasty.
Do golf courses play longer in winter?
With cold air, frost-covered golf balls and wet ground, golf courses start to play a lot longer once the winter kicks in. Par 4s that in summer needed only a fair drive and a flicked wedge now have you pulling out a 3-wood for your second shot and coming up short.
What happens to the air in a golf ball as the temperature drops?
As the temperature drops, your golf ball actually gets smaller, and the air gets denser.
How many degrees does a 200 yard shot play?
Sure, a 200 yard shot in 40 degrees is supposed to play 210.
Is playing in the cold easy?
Playing in the cold is a grind. It isn’t meant to be easy. Pars are good. Birdies are a bonus.
Do power swings work in cold weather?
Power swings- you know those moments where you are in between clubs, and you decide to just hit the smaller one really hard? In the cold, this usually doesn’t work thanks to your tight muscles.
Do you need a diverse repertoire to play golf?
The good news is, you really don’t need an extremely diverse repertoire of shots to play good golf. You just need a bit of strategy and discipline.
How to get your golf fix in winter?
While you might not get to track the ball flight of your shot the same way you would at a driving range, using a golfing simulator is a fun way to get your golf fix in during the winter. Simulators are constantly improving and many now have wind, rain, different lies and ways to track the spin you put on your shot with pinpoint accuracy in order to provide you with a reasonably authentic experience.
How to practice hockey in the winter?
One of the best things you can do for your game during the winter is just maintaining the feel of your short game by hitting a couple putts either on a putting mat or just at a water bottle. It might seem boring, but it’s a great way to keep a smooth stroke during the winter and pass the time during all those long hockey match commercial breaks.
How many swings a day does Hank Haney recommend?
It’s also a great way to get in the 100 swings a day that Hank Haney recommends to help put a swing into memory.
What are the problems with indoor driving ranges?
Low roofs and short distances to walls are problems that plague indoor driving ranges.
Can you play golf in the winter?
Although it maybe tough to play during the winter, it’s not impossible, and one great way to get some golf in during the offseason is to a take a trip to a more hospitable golfing climate. Whether this means leaving your state or leaving your country, taking a golf trip can be a great way to enjoy a weekend with friends and keep your golf game in check while you wait to the weather to warm up back home.
Can you play golf at home in the spring?
Finally, your last option is to just head out and play golf back home. While this doesn’t necessarily have to be on a course, Golf Digest has determined that a golfer can play a perfectly enjoyable round as long as temperatures are above 35°F. Though this might be a little farfetched at this time of the year, in a couple months spring will be on its way and we may very well get some weather that’s nice enough to squeeze in an early round as we prepare for the 2018 season.
Do driving ranges have limitations?
Driving ranges do have their limitations, however. While it is nice to be able to hit a real ball and take a full swing, the shots you’re hitting at the range are not incredibly comparable to an actual course.
How to play golf in cold weather?
Enter GOLF’s resident low-handicaps, who are here to offer some helpful advice, golfer-to-golfer. 1. Loosen up inside.
Why does my golf swing drop in cold weather?
Luke Kerr-Dineen (2.5 handicap): Lots of golfers think cold weather will cause the ball to fly shorter, and while that’s true, the biggest reason why you lose distance in cold weather is because of the weather’s effect on your body. AKA, when it’s cold, you won’t be able to turn as far, or swing as hard, which means your swing speed will drop ...
What happens when the golf ball is cold?
AKA, when it’s cold, you won’t be able to turn as far, or swing as hard, which means your swing speed will drop and you’ll hit the ball shorter accordingly. This is especially true early in the round, when you’re not warmed up from all the walking and swinging.
Is it colder to ride a golf cart in winter?
Also, walk, don’t ride. There’s nowhere colder than an open-air golf cart on a windy winter day. Finally, ditch your pride. Cold-weather golf is all about scoring — if that means taking two extra clubs and keeping your swing simple and elemental, that’s just fine.
How to dress for winter golf?
Taking this lightly can make for a miserable day on the golf course. Bring options such as a lighter or heavier jacket than the one you’re wearing to tee off in. The large pockets of your golf bag or the golf cart basket are there for these situations.
Why isn't my golf ball going to go far in winter?
For one, the golf ball isn’t going to go as far because your swing will most likely be shortened a bit, plus the cold temperatures will drain some distance. Know going into your winter golf round that your distances probably won’t be what they were over the summer, so club up.
What to wear to a golf tournament in the winter?
Bring a winter hat and a standard golf hat. It’s nice to have both options in the event you start to sweat or the sun comes out. In the event it’s really cold, you might want to wear both.
What is the best layer for golf?
A base layer bottom is highly recommended. Like the top, it’s a tighter stretch material that keeps you warm and comfortable. You can easily throw on a pair of golf pants over them or consider a pair of golf rain pants. This is also the only situation you’ll find courses ease up on their “no denim” policy.
Is golf open in the winter?
More courses are staying open to allow those less affected by the cold to come out and tee it up, as long as the course conditions allow for play. Snow can be a factor, but there are also some other things those braving winter golf should be aware of. Here are some tips to keep you playing year-round.
Can you ride in a golf cart?
Riding can obviously shave some time off of your round, but if it’s a particularly windy day, riding in a cart can be very uncomfortable. Always have the windshield of the golf cart up to avoid the front breeze. Riding will also give you more space to store the extras you’ll have with you to brave the cold.
Is walking good for winter?
Walking can be a great winter exercise or a perfect option if the course is a little wet. In the event the course is cart path only, walking will actually save you time.
How to improve golf strokes?
Most golfers neglect the area of the game in which it’s easiest to make improvement – and where most of your strokes take place. If you’ve got a reasonably smooth stretch of floor or carpet that simulates the speed of a putting green, use it. Practice putting to a glass, a chair leg… Any object will do.
Do cities have indoor ranges?
Of course, many cities and towns have indoor ranges, or outdoor facilities with heated, covered stalls. That should be your first option. Lacking such a luxury, here are three great ways to keep your game in shape while waiting for the spring thaw:
Can you hit chips in the yard?
If room (and your spouse) allows, set up an indoor chipping area. Likewise, it doesn’t take much space to hit chips and pitch shots in the yard. Plus, you’ll have quick access to heat when the temperatures drop.
What does it mean to play golf in the winter?
A game of golf in the winter feels like a bonus, it means that the weather is good enough for you to play. In this case, just enjoy yourself and being out in the fresh air, your score is irrelevant. The bad weather can make it grim so, if you just smile, it will always be better.
Why do you use winter in golf?
This is your chance to get lessons, work on swing mechanics and really ingrain changes on the range. The range is your friend at this time as you can hide from the elements more and it’s easier to stay warm.
What to wear for a golf round?
Winter mittens and woolly hats are great for keeping you extra warm during your round. Cold hands make controlling the club more difficult, mittens help keep the blood flowing. A good hat can reduce your exposure and really help you out there.
Why is golf so difficult?
Both wind and rain make golf more difficult and more complicated. They are factors that need to be compensated for in your shotmaking and with experience it becomes easier. The wind demands good ball striking, weak or poorly struck shots will be punished by gusts.
Is it better to carry golf clubs or carry trollies?
Golf trollies aren’t good for the turf, they are often banned from courses through the winter period. Even if they’re not banned, consider carrying your clubs anyway, it is better for the course. Carrying will also help you keep a little fitter over the off-season.
Josh Berhow, Minnesota
I feel like I’m more lenient on this topic than most people since I’ve spent my entire life in the north. Our season is very limited. That means we are getting out as much as we can as long as there’s no snow on the ground, and have no problem wearing warm layers and stocking hats in the early spring/late fall.
Dylan Dethier, Washington
Pure temperature? There’s almost no lower limit. I’d say about 30 degrees. But that’s on a mild day. If there’s wind or rain that number creeps higher very fast.
Tim Reilly, New York
I’m a fair-weather golfer. If there’s a strong chance of rain in the forecast, there’s a strong chance I’m not showing up. When it comes to the cold, I’m not too much different. Look, if we’re talking about a Top 100 Course, I’ll toss on the long johns and buckle up my G-Tech heated pouch around my waist.
Zephyr Melton, New York
As long as the wind chill doesn’t dip into the 30s, I’m game to play through the winter. Throw on the proper clothing (and make sure you walk, not ride) and it’s no issue for me. I’m not willing to stow away the clubs for months at a time, so I’ll put up with harsh conditions if it means getting some hacks in.

Chip, Putt, and Swing at Home
Golf Ranges and Indoor Simulators
- Another great (and much more exciting) way to work on your game during the winter is to practice at an indoor driving range. Although they may not be that common, if you live near a metropolitan area there’s likely at least one within driving distance. Indoor ranges are great not only because you get to actually hit a physical ball, but also because you get to feel the full swing of the club a…
Go South Or Play Real Golf
- Our final way to practice during the winter is one of the most obvious and also one of the best options golfers have to keep their game together during the winter. You must simply find a way to play. Easier said than done! Although it maybe tough to play during the winter, it’s not impossible, and one great way to get some golf in during the offseason is to a take a trip to a more hospitabl…