W L
KEEP UP YOUR GOLF IN COLD WEATHER by Tom Atkinson, Heswall Golf Club
For many of you, the first hint of frost signals the end of the season. But for players who embrace the challenge, winter golf can be uniquely rewarding, quieter courses, fresh air, and a chance to sharpen your game in conditions that demand more precision. Playing golf in cold weather isn’ t just about toughing it out, it’ s about preparation, strategy, and the right mindset. Here’ s how to make the most of your cold-weather rounds.
Dress Smart Warm, Not Bulky Cold-weather gear can make or break a winter round. The goal is to retain heat without restricting your swing.
Layer up
• Base layer, moisture-wicking thermal tops and leggings keep sweat off your skin and trap heat in.
• Mid layer, lightweight fleece or insulated vests add warmth without bulk.
• Outer layer, a windproof, water-resistant jacket ensures you stay protected from wind chill and light rain.
• Winter golf gloves Improve grip while keeping your hands warm.
• Hand warmers try slipping them into your pockets between shots, mitts can also add benefit.
• Thermal hat or ear warmers are good as a surprising amount of heat escapes from the head.
• Thick golf socks or winter socks keep feet warm and improve blood flow.
Be realistic with the game, Adjust Your Expectations and Your Distances
• Cold air is denser, and golf balls don’ t work the same in low temperatures. That means shorter distances pound for pound.
• It’ s not an exact science but here’ s a general educated summary.
• Take a club to two more on most iron shots.
• Reduced driver carry, especially if the golf ball is cold so aim for alternative landing spots.
• Less roll on fairways that are damp or frosty.
• A good rule of thumb is that for every 6 ° C drop in temperature, you may lose 2 – 3 yards of carry with irons.
Keep Your Golf Ball Warm
• A warm ball compresses better, travels farther, and feels softer on impact.
• How to do it within the rules. Rotate two or three balls, keep one in your pocket with a hand warmer, use the other for play
• Use a towel to dry snow, frost, or moisture between shots
Warm Up Properly
• Your body needs extra prep in the cold.
• Essential cold-weather warm-up.
• 5 – 10 minutes of dynamic stretching.
Slow, controlled practice swings, building to full speed
• Avoid hitting full-power shots without warming up colder muscles are more prone to injury.
• Even walking briskly to the first tee helps get your blood flowing.
Rethink Your Strategy
• Winter golf often requires smarter, more conservative shot choices.
• Aim for the centre of greens. Cold greens can be hard, fast, or unpredictable.
• Avoid high-spin shots. Cold, wet conditions kill spin and control.
• Play bump-and-runs when feasible. They’ re more reliable on winter turf.
• Stay patient. Everyone plays slower and less precisely in the cold.
Protect Your Hands and Feet
• These are the first body parts to get cold and the hardest to warm back up.
• Foot warmers in spiked golf shoes, rotating gloves to keep them dry. A towel kept inside your jacket if rain or snow is falling.
Maintain a Positive Mindset
• Cold-weather golf rewards flexible expectations and a sense of adventure.
• Embrace the fact that your scores may be higher, greens may not hold, swings may be stiffer.
• Instead of chasing perfection, focus on rhythm, contact, and creativity. Think of winter golf as off-season training: conditions may be harder, but the skills gained will pay off when spring returns.
Playing golf in cold weather isn’ t about enduring discomfort, it’ s about adapting intelligently. With the right gear, smart strategy, and proper preparation, winter golf can be an enjoyable and even productive part of your season. Dress warm, swing smooth, take extra clubs, and embrace the challenge. You might just find that some of your most memorable rounds happen when the temperatures drop.
Lessons are available all year around at Heswall Golf Club.
66 wirrallife. com