Playing golf in the cold? No problem. Just avoid common mistakes. Pro tips for staying warm on chilly golf days.Golfing in autumn and winter is definitely different from summer. The ball doesn’t fly as usual in the cold, insulated clothing can make an elegant swing nearly impossible, and traction on soon-to-be frozen ground leaves much to be desired. But despite winter temperatures, no one has to skip their golf rounds. You just need to be properly equipped and prepared.
Warming Up Is Essential
Ralf Schwarz, a base coach of the Bavarian Golf Association from the Allgäu region, where it’s often frosty and unpleasant from October to April, says, \”When it’s cold, you don’t move as freely while golfing.\” Therefore, a thorough warm-up routine of at least ten minutes is crucial in this season. \”Otherwise, your muscles don’t properly warm up, increasing the risk of injury,\” explains the PGA professional. Muscle strains are particularly common. The cardiovascular system should also be activated, for example, by running in place and moving your arms. This warms the body, as well as hands and feet, right from the start. Schwarz advises, \”Just keep moving constantly. That helps a lot.\”
Top Winter Golf Tips at a Glance
- Choose a softer ball. It compensates for the hardening of the cover due to cold and provides better feel. Keeping the ball briefly in your pocket between holes or when marking it warms it up and enhances the effect.
- Opt for a longer club when in doubt. For example, if you usually use a 7-iron, switch to a 6-iron as balls don’t fly as far in cold temperatures.
- Wear multiple layers rather than one thick or too few. You can remove layers anytime, but you can’t add what you don’t have.
- Bring something warm to drink on your round – for instance, tea with a bit of sugar or broth.
- Get hand warmers for your pockets. They’re inexpensive and warm for about two hours.
- Carry your golf bag instead of pushing it. This keeps your circulation going and helps you stay warm.
- Have modest expectations. In cold weather, the ball won’t fly as far, so expect fewer scoring highlights. Instead, try something you normally wouldn’t dare.
Proper Gear: Layered Clothing and Windbreaker
If you’re not deterred by cold temperatures, focus on the right gear. Since most body heat is lost through the head, a cozy warm hat is as essential as clubs and balls. Schwarz recommends wearing light, insulating functional clothing like ski underwear and choosing windproof layers instead