For many golfers, the end of summer doesn’t mean the end of golf season, it simply marks the beginning of layering season. Some of the best laughs, most creative shots and coziest golf moments happen when fairways get frosty and breath turns into tiny clouds.
Here’s how to keep swinging through the colder months without freezing the fun away.
1. Dress Like You’re Prepared… But Still Cute
Winter golf isn’t about piling on bulky layers; it’s about layering smartly. Freedom of movement is key, if a hug would feel restricted, a swing definitely will.
A light, flexible mid-layer for warmth
A windproof outer layer
A cute bobble hat
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2. Keep Those Hands Toasty (Because They Control Everything!)
Hands play a starring role in every swing, so keeping them warm is essential. Winter golf gloves can feel unusual at first but quickly become a cold-weather lifesaver. Adding a hand warmer to a pocket provides a quick boost of heat before every shot.
Women’s Thermal Grip Golf Gloves
These have a pocket to slip in hand warmers for additional warmth.
Popular Hand Warmers
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3. Adjust Expectations (And the Scorecard, If Needed)
Winter golf isn’t about perfection – it’s about enjoying the quirks. Soggy lies, crunchy greens, and unpredictable bounces are all part of the fun.
Use the season to:
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Try new shots
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Laugh at wild bounces
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Celebrate the small wins
And if a little humour helps keep the mood light, a quick flip through The Little Book of Golf Laughs can add an extra smile to a winter round without taking things too seriously.
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4. Bring Warm Drinks Along for the Ride
A warm drink can be the highlight of a winter round. Hot chocolate, tea or coffee all pair beautifully with frosty mornings and chilly fairways. A quick sip between shots can lift spirits, warm insides and keep energy levels up.
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5. Embrace Shorter Rounds (9 Holes Are Perfect in Winter)
Winter is the ideal time to rethink what counts as a “full” round.
Nine holes can be the perfect sweet spot:
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Less exposure to the cold
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More energy left at the end
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A quicker, more casual golf fix
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Plenty of fun without needing a full afternoon
Shorter rounds also remove pressure – every hole feels like a bonus, not a marathon. Winter golf is about enjoyment and 9 holes often delivers that in the coziest, happiest way.
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6. Walk If You Can… Ride If You Must
Walking is the easiest way to stay warm in winter. It boosts circulation, keeps muscles loose, and helps avoid that icy “cart chill.”
Some days will still call for a cart and that’s fine too. Just bundle up, shield from the wind and keep an extra layer handy.
A quick 10-minute warm-up routine before teeing off can make a big difference in cold weather, helping time-crunched golfers feel loose and ready whether they’re walking or riding.
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7. Keep Your Swing in Shape – Even Indoors
Winter is the perfect time to keep things simple and focus on light, feel-good practice.
A few minutes of easy at-home work goes a long way. If a bit of structure helps, our Fun Home Practice Routine Guide can be a great way to stay sharp. It’s designed for small spaces, like an apartment or backyard and doesn’t require any equipment, making winter practice both doable and fun.
Indoor ranges or simulators are also great for trying shots without braving the cold.
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Winter Golf Can Be Surprisingly Delightful
Cold-weather golf doesn’t demand toughness, just warm layers, a playful attitude and an appreciation for winter’s quirks. With fewer crowds, extra laughs, shorter round and a swing that stays fresh all season, winter can become one of the most enjoyable times to play.
Layer up, stay warm and enjoy the season.
Want more golf inspiration? Try these:
- From Beanies to Booties: Must-Have Golf Accessories to Stay Warm on The Course
- The Best Travel-Friendly Gifts for Golfers
- Lost Your Spot: Not with these Adorable Golf Ball Markers
