The joy of playing winter golf in the Pacific Northwest

Before we talk about the challenges of winter golf in the Pacific Northwest, it’s important to consider how fortunate we are to be able to play at all in the winter; The upper Midwest and Northeast are snowed or frozen-in and can not play at all. What they wouldn’t give for our winter weather. Yes! Even the rain is better than snow.

What is it really like to play winter golf in our region? The best description is: It’s different! It varies depending upon the weather. There’s no point in trying to entice the fair-weather golfer into playing in winter, but, the rest of us know what to expect and, while we may prefer summer golf, we don’t shy away for enjoying golf in the winter months.

I think you could call us hard-core golfers. As one competitor once said, referring to playing a competition round in inclement weather, “Fair for one, fair for all.”  That could be the motto.

    Core golfers know we must adjust our swing accommodate the extra clothing. We know how to dress in layers and carry hand-warmers, wear waterproof shoes. We know how to pack our bag with rain-gear, a dickie or stocking cap, depending upon what the weather calls for. A hot drink is always nice!

We know how to adjust our club selection for the colder weather and carry an extra towel to clean the mud off our ball. A grove cleaning brush is very handy. We are used to seeing our ball settle down in wet grass and learn how to produce a swing that can dig it out, even in the fairways. We know that the greens will be slower and softer. The bunker sand will be wet and the fairways will be longer. We also know the importance of choosing courses with good drainage. Carts are nice but when it is cart-path-only, walking might be a better option.

For some, it may come as a surprise that there are courses east of the mountain that play year-round too, depending upon weather, of course. Places like the Tri-Cities in Washington and Juniper in Oregon are a couple of places that play year-round. There are other; just check their websites.

Winter golf is also a great time to work on your golf skills, especially your chipping. It’s also a good time to take lessons.  If you play competitive golf in spring or summer, you’ll want to get in the extra practice in winter so you are better prepared when the golf season actually starts.

Do we need to mention that there are fewer people on the course and the prices are much lower. And, when you are back in the clubhouse after your round, you can take in a football game on the tube while enjoying your favorite beverage.

Tips to prepare for winter golf in the NW

    • Layer up with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Don’t forget warm gloves and a beanie or hat to keep your head warm.

Choose the Right Equipment

    • Use softer golf balls that perform better in colder weather. Consider using a hybrid or 7-iron instead of a driver for better control on wet or soft ground.

Adjust Your Expectations

    • Understand that the ball will not travel as far in cold weather. Be prepared to adjust your club selections accordingly.

    • Keep Your Equipment Dry: Use waterproof bags and covers to protect your clubs and gear from rain and moisture. Bring extra towels to wipe down clubs and balls.

    • Plan for Shorter Days: Tee off earlier in the day to make the most of the limited daylight. Check local sunset times and plan your rounds accordingly.

    • Stay Hydrated: Even in colder temperatures, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Bring water or warm drinks in a thermos to keep your energy up.

    • Warm Up Properly: Spend extra time warming up to avoid injuries. Stretch your muscles and take some practice swings to get your body ready.

    •Less Crowded Courses: Enjoy a more relaxed pace with fewer golfers on the course, which can enhance your overall experience.

    • Improved Focus and Concentration: The quieter surroundings and cooler temperatures can help you concentrate better on your game, allowing for improved performance.

    • Unique Scenic Beauty: Western Washington offers stunning winter landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and serene, misty mornings that can make your round memorable.

Opportunity for Practice

    • Winter golf provides a chance to work on your game without the pressure of tournaments or competitive play, allowing for valuable skill improvement.

Health Benefits

    • Staying active during the winter months can boost your mood and overall health.