Tips for Golfing in the Winter

Unfortunately, for many of us, cold weather means less time on the course. Unless you’re living close to the tropics, harsh winter days and impossible conditions are going to occasionally throw off your golf game. But the truth is that many golfers are throwing away valuable golfing sessions for fear of the weatherman’s ominous predictions, when in actuality, getting in a round can be as simple as investing in the appropriate winter golf gear.

There are many ways that you can take advantage of those uncertain days of chilly air and gloomy winter clouds that cause most golfers to stay inside. Playing golf in the winter can also provide benefits that you may not fully appreciate until you’re checking in at the clubhouse – like finding out that you have the entire golf course to yourself.

Let’s take a look at some essential winter golf tips that are sure to keep your golf clubs warmed up and out of storage this season.

Dressing for Winter Golf

If you are preparing for this year’s winter golf season, then you need to consider investing in some basic cold weather golf gear and equipment. Just a few vital additions to your collection can mean the difference between an enjoyable round or turning into a popsicle.

Adding to your regular fair-weather equipment can also be a lot to keep track of, so always make sure that you include a checklist to mark off before you make your way to the golf course.

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  Are you layered the right way?

  There are a few ways that you can bundle up before heading out in the cold, and doing it like Ralphie’s kid brother from A Christmas Story isn’t one of them. When you are layering up for a game of golf, make sure that your layers aren’t hindering your golf swing. After you’ve dressed out in your thermal undergarments, your warmer outer layers and lastly a golf windbreaker, make sure that you can take a decent swing in the mirror before leaving the house. If you can’t, then you might want to consider shedding some layers.

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  Are your extremities protected?

  After you’ve covered your core, it’s time to focus on your extremities: your hands, your feet, and your head. Warm golf gloves that allow you to properly grip the club are crucial for your swing. Putting those low-top golf shoes away and wearing a pair of golf shoes that are well insulated and higher on your ankles will prevent intrusive elements from making their way in. Of course, it’s always important to keep your head properly covered with a golf hat while playing in the winter.

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  Don’t forget your accessories.

  What kind of accessories, you ask? Hand warmers are a good start. They’ll keep your fingers toasty between swings, which can ultimately save you strokes. The winter months also mean a lower sun on the horizon, which can be detrimental to your eyes. That’s why it’s necessary for you to remember your sunglasses when gathering your winter golf gear. Other essentials include a rain jacket and an umbrella – just in case the bottom decides to unexpectedly fall out. Getting caught in a summertime downpour is inconvenient, but cold temperatures can make winter weather downright dangerous.

Playing golf in the winter is all about being prepared; making sure that you’ve got the right amount of layers prior to leaving the house; keeping your hands and other extremities warm throughout your round; and ensuring that you can make it back to the clubhouse should the weather turn nasty are all vital elements of any wintertime golf strategy.

Rejecting the notion of letting an entire season negatively affect your golf game will also give you a leg up on all of your fellow golfers that sit the game out until spring. Following these winter golf tips will allow you to be a member of the dedicated group of golfers that refuse to let a little chilly weather put a damper on their golf outings during the winter season.