Golfing in the cold? No problem. Just avoid common mistakes. Pro tips for staying warm on chilly golf days.There’s no doubt that golfing in autumn and winter differs from summer. The ball doesn’t fly as expected in the cold, insulated clothing can hinder your elegant swing, and grip may suffer on soon-to-be frozen ground. But despite winter temperatures, no one has to give up a round of golf; proper equipment and preparation are key.
Warming Up Is Essential
Ralf Schwarz, a base coach of the Bavarian Golf Association from the often chilly Allgäu region, explains, ‘When it’s cold, golfers don’t move as freely.’ Therefore, a thorough warm-up of at least ten minutes is crucial to adequately warm muscles and reduce injury risks like strains. Activating the cardiovascular system by jogging in place and arm movements helps warm the body, including hands and feet. Schwarz advises: ‘Keep moving constantly. That already helps a lot.’
Top Winter Golf Tips at a Glance
- Choose a softer ball to counteract the hardening shell caused by cold and improve feel; warming the ball briefly in your pocket between holes enhances this effect.
- A longer club can be better; if you normally use a 7-iron, switch to a 6-iron as the ball flies shorter in cold temperatures.
- Wear multiple layers rather than one thick layer or too few; you can always remove layers but not add what you forgot.
- Bring a warm drink like tea with a bit of sugar or broth to keep energy up during the round.
- Use hand warmers in your pockets—they are affordable and keep your hands warm for about two hours.
- Carry your golf bag instead of pushing it to keep your circulation going and stay warm.
- Manage expectations—ball flight is shorter in cold weather, so don’t expect a scoring highlight; use winter rounds to try new things.
Proper Gear: Layering and Windbreakers
Don’t let cold temperatures discourage you; the right gear is essential. Since most body heat is lost through the head, a warm hat alongside clubs and balls is crucial. Schwarz recommends lightweight, insulating functional clothing (such as ski underwear) and prefers a windproof layer over a heavy winter jacket.