Life is all about seasons, and golf is no different. A player can have a wildly different game during winter than summer, yet the basics and shots remain the same. Course conditions like grass, soil, air humidity, wind, and sunlight change significantly as the seasons go by, impacting various aspects of your game. Your body also behaves differently in different seasons, making it necessary to prepare yourself adequately for golf during varying seasons.
Summer is one of the best seasons to golf away, offering longer days and clear skies for the perfect outing. Nonetheless, it comes with its fair share of challenges, including high temperatures that make it harder to move around the course. Read on to discover smart hacks for the best golf this summer!
Top 10 Tips to Prepare for Summer Golfing
Stay Hydrated
The scorching summer heat will make you sweat, depleting your body fluids faster than usual. The first rule in your summer golf book is always to stay hydrated. As you advance through your round of golf, drink plenty of water to keep your hydration levels in check. Before hitting the course, consume enough fluids and carry a full bottle or a pack for constant recharging during play. Thankfully, there are many water stations around the course where you can refill to prevent the summer heat sucking the moisture out of you.
Wear Sunscreen
Protecting your skin is crucial, especially when you’re out and about in the summer heat. The sun’s harmful UV rays can lead to sunburn, so it’s essential to always have sunscreen on hand. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you need a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 on sunny, hot, and humid days to protect your skin effectively. You should reapply sunscreen after every hour or two, and you can also use protective lip balm on your lips. Lastly, a pair of sunglasses might do your eyes some good.
Dress to Stay Cool
One thing we love about golf is the sense of fashion and style at the golf course. Summer presents creative ideas for the fashionista, allowing you to break out the shorts, skirts, and polos made from light, sun-reflecting materials and colors. The whole idea is choosing apparel that helps you stay cool, so opt for comfy, moisture-wicking fabrics that will keep you cooler and dryer. A hat can also protect your neck and face from the sun’s rays, while sun sleeves offer excellent UV protection for your arms.
Carry a Towel
Sweat happens, so carrying a towel when summer golfing is extremely useful and important. Use the towel to wipe your sweaty hands and grips, which can hamper your game by causing your clubs to slip mid-swing. Additionally, you can wet the towel and cool your neck and head to avoid losing focus in the extreme heat. It’s advisable to carry at least two towels, one for your bodily needs and the other for your clubs, allowing you to hit your intended shots.
Play Early or Late
You can avoid the unforgiving summer heat by playing earlier or later during the day. If you are an early bird, you can schedule an early morning tee time and finish your round by noon before the sun’s high up in the sky. However, you’ll have to wake up near the crack of dawn and still contend with a jam-packed golf course because many people also have the same idea. You can also play later in the day when the temperatures are slightly cooler, although not as cool as early morning.
