Golfing in cold weather? No problem. Avoid common mistakes with pro tips for staying warm and agile on chilly golf days.Golfing in autumn and winter is definitely different from summer. The ball doesn’t fly as usual in the cold, lined clothing makes an elegant swing almost impossible, and footing on soon-to-be frozen ground is unreliable. But despite winter temperatures, no one has to skip their golf round. You just need to be properly equipped and prepared.
Warming Up Is Key
Ralf Schwarz, a regional coach for the Bavarian Golf Association living in the Allgäu region — often frosty and harsh from October to April — explains: “When it’s cold, you don’t move as freely when golfing.” Therefore, a thorough warm-up program of at least ten minutes is essential. “Otherwise, the muscles don’t warm up properly, increasing injury risk,” says the PGA professional, noting strains are common injuries in such cases. Activating the cardiovascular system is also important, for example by jogging in place and moving your arms to get your body, including hands and feet, warm from the start. Schwarz advises: “Just keep moving; that helps a lot.”
Top Winter Golf Tips
- Choose a softer ball: It compensates for the shell hardening caused by cold, providing better feel. Occasionally warming the ball in your pocket between holes and when marking improves performance.
- Opt for a longer club: For example, if you usually play a 7-iron, try a 6-iron, as the ball won’t travel as far in cold weather.
- Wear multiple layers: Better many thin layers than one thick or too few. You can always take layers off, but can’t put on what you don’t have.
- Bring something warm to drink: Like tea with a little sugar or broth.
- Use hand warmers: Affordable and effective for about two hours when kept in your pockets.
- Carry your golf bag instead of pushing it: This keeps your circulation going and helps keep you warm.
- Manage expectations: Balls won’t fly as far, so don’t expect a scoring highlight. Use the chance to try something new you wouldn’t usually attempt.
Proper Gear: Layering and Wind Protection
Don’t let cold temperatures deter you; proper gear is crucial. As most body heat is lost through the head, a warm hat is essential alongside clubs and balls. Schwarz recommends lightweight, warming functional clothing like ski base layers, topped with a windproof jacket rather than a heavy winter coat.
Don’t Forget Nutrition
Regarding fingers, thick gloves reduce shot feel and fun. Specialized winter golf gloves, usually made of leather or fleece, offer a good solution. For still cold fingers, hand warmers in jacket or trouser pockets are a handy companion and easily available.
Moreover, winter requires more energy to prevent shivering, especially during physical activity. Many golfers don’t eat enough before and during winter rounds. Schwarz notes: “It becomes especially hard to maintain strength and concentration for up to four hours