How To Survive Cold Weather Golfing

“Tees, balls, greens, par, and birdies.” Yes, Verity Group is talking all this GOLF this week! Cooler temperatures are starting to set in throughout the Hampton Roads region, and while most of us are starting to think about holiday decorations, shopping, and holiday meal plans, we can't forget about our golfing community as they head into a new season of their favorite sport. Playing in the colder months is very different- the ball doesn't travel far, conditions are often wet and soggy, and you may not get loose as quickly as in the warmer months. If you're wondering how to play golf in the cold, we've got you covered. When it comes to winter golf, stay patient, keep your cool and use these seven tips before you head to the course.

1. Stay Prepared
   The biggest thing when golfing in colder temperatures is to be prepared. When you’re stiff it means that your swing power and your flexibility won’t be 100% as you are in the summer months. This also means that you will get a higher score and have less chance of injury. Additionally, instead of wearing bulky jackets, you will want to wear layers so that it is easier to add or take off clothing.
   
   

2. Walk Instead of Ride 

This might sound crazy, but walking the course will help you stay loose. Not only is walking the course great exercise, but most courses in the winter months are drive-path only, so walking will not help you stay loose for your next swing, but you might also find yourself saving time while trying to find your ball.

3. Switch Your Golf Ball

Try this simple, but effective technique the next time you're out on the course - switching up your ball! You'll want to use a more firm ball in the colder months than the softer balls that you use in the warmer months. The reason behind this is that a firmer ball will travel further. Another simple thing to consider is to keep your golf balls warm by keeping them in your pockets.

4. Understanding Winter Golf Rules

Since conditions are usually wet and soggy in the winter months, the "rules" change in an effort to make things a little easier. These winter rule changes are called the Preferred Lies which allow a golfer to lift, clean and place their ball. Remember- if you can’t remove the mud from your ball entirely, the ball may tend to drift toward the opposite side that the debris is on. Example: if mud is on the left side of the ball, the ball may drift toward the right and vice versa. Golfers may also want to check the rules to see if golfers are playing off mats that day, as this helps save the turf from wear and tear in the winter months. Each course is different, so rules may vary.

5. Spend Extra Time Warming Up

Loosening your muscles before warming up is always a good idea, but consider it an essential step before hitting the course in the winter months. Golfers can begin to loosen up by hitting the range for a warm-up to avoid injury and to keep yourself from being cold during your first few swings.

6. Practice Indoors

Golf simulators, nets, or indoor putting and chipping drills are just a few ways that you can take the game indoors this winter. The goal is to keep swinging and perfecting your skills so that come Spring, you'll be a step ahead of your peers.

7. Have Fun!

Regardless of what month your next visit to the course may be, always remember to just have fun. The game of golf is already hard enough and with colder weather, expect to have a few shots worse than you would in the summer. 

We hope these tips will help as you head onto the course this winter! Remember to always be prepared for the conditions and call ahead so you know what to expect both on and off the course. Happy golfing!