I grew up in western New York, that was chilly. Heading south to college at Furman University in South Carolina was an improvement, but still not quite warm. Now that I live in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., I thought I’d finally found my happy place.
Turns out, I was wrong. The last few weeks proved me wrong. One morning recently, my car doors were frozen shut!
However, golf doesn’t stop just because the temperature drops. If you’re playing when it’s too cold to consider it, here are some ways to succeed anyway.
1. Invest in the right equipment
Playing in the cold is all about preparation and having the right gear can make a big difference. You still need to be able to swing and move athletically, so smart layering matters.
Here is my short list for surviving really cold weather:
- Long underwear
- Gloves (rain gloves work great)
- Hand warmers
- Rain pants
- Heated vest
One of my favorite cold weather pieces is a vest. I wore mine all over Scotland and it made a huge difference – it kept me warm while allowing me to swing freely. Check it out below!
Women’s Vancouver Quilted Vest
Move effortlessly from morning meetings to afternoon errands with our Vancouver Women’s Quilted Vest. This versatile piece offers the perfect balance of warmth and sophistication, keeping you cozy without the bulk, whether you’re on the course, in the office or enjoying a weekend getaway. With its comfortable fit and easy layering, it’s a go-to style for easy styling.
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When it’s cold, the ball just won’t go as far. Anticipate this and plan to get more clubs throughout the round. Cold weather often comes with wind, which only heightens the effect.
Before you head out, try this on the range. Laser at a distance, hit the club you would normally use for that number and see where it lands. This quick check will give you a feel for how much carry and spin you’re losing.
3. Smaller swing, more club
In really cold conditions, it can be more difficult to move freely, which can limit your ability to make a full range of motion. This should not be a disadvantage.
Consider picking up more club and taking a smaller, more controlled swing. THINK knockdown style shots: adjusted setup, reduced movement and cleaner contact. Smaller swings often lead to smaller losses—a big win when conditions aren’t perfect.
4. Greens can get faster
Cool, dry conditions can lead to faster, firmer greens. Pay attention to this, especially on approach shots where the ball may not stop as quickly.
Try to land the ball short and let it roll towards the target. On the greens, consciously shorten your backswing—a smaller stroke helps control distance on smooth surfaces. A good mental tip is to just aim to leave the shots a little short and let the green speed do the work.
5. Indoor golf
If all else fails, there’s always indoor golf—warmer, fun, and no need to chase bad shots.
There are many great options, but one of my favorites is T-Squared Social in Manhattan. It offers a lively atmosphere, simulation golf and excellent food and drink.
