Playing golf in the cold? No problem. Just avoid common mistakes. Pro tips for staying warm and playing well on chilly days.
Golfing in autumn and winter differs greatly from summer play. Cold weather affects ball flight, bulky clothing hinders smooth swings, and slippery, soon-to-be frozen ground challenges your footing. Yet, with proper equipment and preparation, no one needs to skip their rounds during cold seasons.
Warming Up Is Key
Ralf Schwarz, a PGA professional and trainer in Bavaria’s often frosty Allgäu region, notes that cold weather often tightens movement on the course. He stresses a thorough warm-up of at least ten minutes to properly heat muscles and reduce injury risk, especially muscle strains. Activating the cardiovascular system by jogging in place and arm movements helps keep hands and feet warm. Schwarz advises golfers to keep moving continuously for best results.
Top Winter Golf Tips
- Choose a softer ball. It compensates for the hardening shell caused by cold, offering better feel. Occasionally warming the ball in your pocket between shots enhances this effect.
- Opt for a longer club. For example, use a 6-iron instead of a 7-iron since cold air affects ball distance.
- Dress in layers. Multiple thin layers are preferable to one bulky layer and can be adjusted during play.
- Bring a warm drink like tea with sugar or broth to keep energy up.
- Use hand warmers in your pockets. Affordable and effective for about two hours.
- Carry your golf bag instead of pushing it. This keeps your circulation going and helps stay warm.
- Manage expectations. Balls don’t fly far in cold weather, so focus on experimentation rather than score.
Proper Gear: Layering and Wind Protection
Don’t let cold deter you—wear appropriate gear. Since most body heat escapes through the head, a warm hat is essential along with your clubs. Schwarz recommends lightweight, insulating clothing such as ski underwear topped with wind-resistant layers instead of heavy winter jackets.
Don’t Forget Nutrition
Thick gloves can reduce feeling, diminishing enjoyment and control. Specialized winter golf gloves made of leather or fleece help maintain shot feel. Additional hand warmers clipped to your jacket or pockets provide extra warmth. Also, your body requires more energy to avoid shivering during physical activity in winter. Many neglect adequate nutrition before and during rounds, making it harder to maintain concentration and strength for up to four hours, according to Schwarz.
In conclusion, keep realistic expectations for your winter golf rounds. Cold stiffens muscles and reduces equipment effectiveness. Understanding this physics helps you appreciate and enjoy the unique challenges of winter golf.