The end of summer marks the close of the “recreational” golf season. As we get into the cold weather golf season there are things to keep in mind to give yourself the best chance to score well. Recommendations and a few preparations you can make before you head to the course that will help you play your best include:
At all costs, keep your hands warm
Cold weather players know that once cold seeps into their hands, the feel for the club and rhythm are lost. A pair of cart mitts with chemical hand-warmer packets goes a long way to keeping you in the game.
Play the right ball
To offset the cold, you have to play a softer compression golf ball to avoid losing distance. A couple golf balls to try when it is cold are the Callaway SuperSoft or the Bridgestone e6.
Wear the right clothes
Modern compression clothing from companies like Under Armor, Nike and Adidas make cold-weather golf a lot more fun. Staying warm without bulky clothes that impede your swing is possible now. If the temps are above 40 degrees, you can play in a compression shirt, a golf shirt and a wind vest and make a pretty free move at the ball. Keeping your head and hands warm, you can also usually get away with wearing less on the rest of your body.
Make simple, rhythmic swings and club up
Because you’re wearing more clothes, your swing will be shorter and timing it properly will be harder. Accept that you won’t hit the ball as far. Remember that you’ll pick up some distance from that low compression ball you’re playing, and just focus on smooth swings and catching the ball in the middle of the club face.
Cold weather golf can be a lot of fun and a great way to shake off the cabin fever in the winter. Make sure you come prepared and I’m sure you’ll have a great time.