Golfing in the cold? No problem. Avoid common mistakes with pro tips for staying warm on chilly golf days.Golfing in autumn and winter is different from summer. The ball doesn’t fly as usual in the cold, insulated clothing can make an elegant swing nearly impossible, and grip can be lacking on freezing ground. But despite winter temperatures, no one has to skip a golf round. You just need to be properly equipped and prepared.
Warm-Up is Key
Ralf Schwarz, a PGA professional and coach in the Allgäu region, where it often gets frosty from October to April, knows that cold weather makes golfers move less freely. Therefore, a thorough warm-up of at least ten minutes is essential to properly warm the muscles and reduce injury risk. He advises staying active by running on the spot and moving your arms to get your body and extremities warm. “Always keep moving; it helps a lot,” he says.
Top Winter Golf Tips
- Choose a softer ball to compensate for shell hardening caused by cold, enhancing feel. Keep the ball warm in your pocket occasionally between shots.
- Opt for a longer club if unsure—for instance, use a 6-iron instead of a 7-iron since the ball flies shorter in low temperatures.
- Dress in layers rather than one thick or too few. You can remove but can’t add clothing you don’t have.
- Bring a warm drink like tea with sugar or broth to keep energy up during your round.
- Use hand warmers in your pockets—they’re inexpensive and keep hands warm for about two hours.
- Carry your golf bag instead of pushing it to keep your circulation going and stay warm.
- Manage expectations since the ball will not fly as far; use the opportunity to try shots you usually avoid.
Proper Gear: Layering and Windbreakers
Don’t let cold deter you; focus on the right gear. Most body heat is lost through the head, so a warm hat is crucial, alongside clubs and balls. Schwarz recommends lightweight, warm functional clothing like ski underwear under a windproof layer rather than a heavy winter jacket for best mobility.
Don’t Forget Nutrition
Thick gloves can diminish feeling and fun; specialized winter golf gloves made from leather or fleece are better. If hands still get cold, hand warmers for your jacket or pockets are good companions. Additionally, winter requires more energy to prevent shivering during physical activity. Many golfers don’t eat enough before or during winter rounds, which makes maintaining strength and concentration for up to four hours difficult. Schwarz emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition.
Ultimately, don’t expect too much from your winter golf round. Cold stiffens muscles and reduces equipment performance due to physics. But knowing this lets you enjoy winter golf even more.