St. Johns December Newsletter P1_STM77597 December Newsletter | Page 5

NOTE FROM THE TEACHING PROFESSIONAL
FA L L 2 0 1 8
From the Lesson Tee: The Winter Edition
In the Winter months we all have a vague sense that
the golf ball does not travel as far as it would during
July, accounting for this may save a few strokes
during your next round. The primary cause of this
phenomenon is the air temperature itself. As with
all matter, the colder something is, the denser it is.
When the air temperature cools (especially below
fifty degrees) the golf ball will require more velocity
to travel the same distance, if that velocity is not
achieved the golf ball will not travel as far due to the
increase in resistance. Another consideration would
be the temperature of the golf ball. Performance
characteristics of the golf ball including; spin, velocity,
and ultimately carry, depend on elasticity of the
materials. A warmer golf ball will be more responsive
or resilient at impact, increasing its overall carry. This
is important in terms of where to store your golf balls,
indoors is best (not the trunk of your car). Last, but
certainly not least, how will air temperature effect club
selection? If we specifically look at air temperature’s
contribution, the loss in distance is 1.5% per every
20 degrees in temperature. For example, a 200 yard
shot at 70 degrees will travel approximately 197 yards
at 50 degrees. This loss in distance may be less than
expected, but there are also several other variables at
play including; extra layers of clothes, tighter/colder
muscles, wind, and turf conditions, all working to
decrease the velocity of the golf ball. A playing tip for
this time of year, “take one extra club when in doubt”.
As golfers we are looking for every advantage possible,
incorporating this information into your next round
may help carry a bunker or avoid a water hazard.
Stay Warm and Play Well,
John Mousley
PGA, TPI
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