Golfing in cold weather? No problem. Just avoid common mistakes. Pro tips for staying warm on chilly golf days.No question, golfing in autumn and winter is different from summer. The ball doesn’t fly as usual in the cold, lined clothing makes an elegant swing nearly impossible, and grip on soon-to-be frozen ground leaves much to be desired. But despite wintry temperatures, no one has to skip the round. You just need to be properly equipped and prepared.
Warming Up Is Key
Ralf Schwarz, a Bavarian Golf Association coach living in the Allgäu region where frost is frequent from October to April, knows that golfers move less freely in the cold. He emphasizes a thorough warm-up of at least ten minutes to properly heat muscles and reduce injury risk like strains. Activating the cardiovascular system by jogging in place and arm movements warms the body including hands and feet early on. Schwarz advises: ‘Keep moving continuously – that helps a lot.’
Top Winter Golf Tips
- Choose a softer ball to counteract the shell hardening in the cold and enhance feel. Warming the ball briefly in your pocket between shots increases this effect.
- Opt for a longer club if unsure; for example, use a 6-iron instead of a 7-iron because the cold reduces ball flight distance.
- Dress in layers rather than wearing one thick or too few; remove layers as needed but you can’t add what you don’t have.
- Bring warm drinks such as tea with sugar or broth to stay energized.
- Use hand warmers placed in pockets; they are inexpensive and warm for about two hours.
- Carry your golf bag instead of pushing to keep circulation going and stay warm.
- Manage your expectations since the ball won’t fly as far in cold weather, so don’t expect a highlight score. Instead, try shots you usually wouldn’t.
The Right Gear: Layered Clothing and Windbreakers
Don’t let the cold deter you; proper equipment is crucial. Most body heat escapes through the head, so a warm hat is essential alongside clubs and balls. Schwarz also recommends lightweight thermal underwear and windproof layers over heavy jackets.
Don’t Forget Food
Thick gloves reduce touch and enjoyment, so invest in winter golf gloves made of leather or fleece. If fingers are still cold, pocket or jacket hand warmers are a helpful companion. Also, more energy is necessary in winter to avoid shivering during physical exertion. Many golfers fail to eat enough before and during rounds, making it harder to maintain strength and focus for up to four hours, says Schwarz.
Ultimately, don’t expect too much from a winter round; the cold stiffens muscles and reduces equipment performance. Knowing this lets you enjoy golf even more in winter.