Winter golf in Massachusetts. It’s not the same as Summer golf, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it just as much. Here is a list of 14 tips to help you enjoy your next round of Winter golf in Massachusetts.
GO WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE
The conditions (wind/cold) are tough and your game isn’t as sharp as it usually is, so just go out there and enjoy some fresh air and play the game you love.
WARM UP
Not talking about the driving range or putting green, but more so physically. Do some jumping jacks or other physical activity to get the blood flowing and warm yourself up before hitting that first tee shot.
PARK NEAR 18 & SET THE HEAT TO HIGH
A little Massachusetts trick for you, park your car as close as you can to the 18th hole and have your heat set to high before turning your car off. This way, when you get to the 18th hole, (with an automatic car starter) you can start your car to get it toasty while you’re finishing up your round.
A little snow on the ground shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a round of golf.
BRING SOME SCRATCH TICKETS
If you’ve read this far, you’ve definitely experienced a frost delay. This time of year, they can be a little longer than say November. So have a plan for any delay you might face…download an extra podcast, buy some scratch tickets, bring a book, just have something to help you pass the time.
LAYER UP
So cliché, we know. But seriously, plan for it to feel 10 degrees colder than whatever it feels like when you’re leaving the house. For whatever reason, it always seems to be a little windier and a little cooler once you’re out on the course. Some must haves: warm socks, neck warmer, fleece lined golf pants, as many sleeves as you can wear, winter hat.
Keep those ears covered and those hands warm.
WINTER GOLF GLOVES
They explain themselves, and if you plan on playing in sub-40 weather, they’re a must have. Much easier than the on-and-off of true winter gloves/mitts.
HAND WARMERS
While we’re on hands, may as well bring some hand warmers as well. Toss them in your pockets for a little warm-me-up throughout the day.
CHAP STICK
Cold, windy, sneaky amount of sunlight…you’re welcome.
WALK IF YOU CAN
For those that are able to enjoy the game on foot, there’s no better time to do so than winter. The wind/cold multiplies when zipping around in a cart, plus you’ll find a lot of “Cart Path Only” signs due to the wet turf conditions. And naturally, walking throughout the round helps keep blood moving which should keep you a little warmer.
BRING DRINKS & SNACKS
You’d be hard pressed to find an on-course snack shack open this time of year. So make sure you’re prepped with your hydration of choice and a few snacks too.
USE A MALLET PUTTER
To use the line again – If you’ve read this far, you are likely a golfer with a lineup of old putters in the basement. This is the perfect time of year to throw a mallet back in the mix. Generally speaking, it should help you hit putts a little firmer, which is helpful with green speeds being a bit slower this time of year.
Mallet putters are often the better choice for winter golf.
PLAY MATCH PLAY
You cannot post scores this time of year in Massachusetts and everyone is likely to be playing a handful of strokes higher than normal. With that in mind, it’s the perfect time to play match play. Don’t worry about your score, just concentrate at the shot in front of you…it should make for a more enjoyable round.
GIVE PUTTS
There are times to grind over short putts. January in Massachusetts is not one of those times. Be a little friendlier with the gimmes and save the serious golf for active season.
TAKE AN EXTRA CLUB OR TWO
It’s cold. The ball isn’t flying as far as it usually does. It’s windy. You’re bundled up in layers. Just grab an extra club or two and swing easy.
