Top 5 tips for winter golf

Follow our advice so standards don’t slip when the seasons change.

Check local winter rules with the committee
Make sure you familiarise yourself with your course’s winter rules so you don’t end up adding extra strokes to your scorecard. Check with the committee about the finer details, such as preferred lies. And whatever you do, don’t forget a ball marker, as you’re more likely to move the ball by hand to navigate less-than-ideal conditions.

Protect yourself against the elements
It may sound like an obvious piece of advice but without the right gear your game can be seriously affected. A pair of waterproof gloves will ensure you’re grip doesn’t slip in wet conditions, while fleece-lined mittens will keep your hands warm between strokes to prevent your fingers from turning numb. Also think about investing in some decent waterproofs to stop the weather dampening your spirits, and a cap with a peak to help keep rain and sleet from getting in your eyes.

Set realistic pars
Your performance in wet, windy and cold conditions is going to look very different compared to a round played in ideal weather. Try adding two strokes to the par of each nine. That way, you’re more likely to have a confidence-boosting day on the course. Tiger Woods used a similar idea nicknamed ‘Tiger Par’ when honing his skills as a youngster. If it was good enough for him…
  


  
Winterproof your golf bag
Start by adding a waterproof cover and some winter wheels. The best options will pick up less mud and cause less damage to the ground. If you’ve got an adjustable driver you can close the face of the club to add some loft to your shots. Balls don’t travel as far on soft and boggy surfaces so the small change will help you cover longer distances from the tee. And don’t forget a hi-vis ball, too. If you can keep it warm, all the better – remember that for every ten degrees the temperature drops, a ball will carry two yards shorter.

Try a simulator
Some days you just have to admit defeat and stay away from the course because of adverse weather. Thankfully you can still pick up a club and use a simulator. Advanced systems are available in plenty of clubhouses and you can even splash out on one of your own to ward off the winter blues. If you prefer to work on your short game while keeping warm, a putting mat and machine are an affordable way to keep up your practice.