Winter Golf Essentials: The Kit Checklist

Golf does not have to stop when it turns cold. With the right winter kit, warm gloves, good layers, a waterproof and a softer ball, winter golf is genuinely enjoyable. Here is the checklist to keep you warm, dry and playing well.

Keep your hands warm

Cold hands ruin feel and grip. A pair of winter gloves worn on both hands is the single best upgrade for cold-weather golf.

Layer up

Layering beats one thick coat. A breathable midlayer traps warmth without restricting your swing.

More options in our winter golf layering guide.

Stay dry

Winter means rain and heavy dew, so a proper waterproof shell is essential.

Play a softer ball

Golf balls feel like rocks in the cold, so drop to a low-compression ball that stays soft and is easier to see against a grey sky.

See the full range in best winter golf balls.

The rest of the checklist

• Grippy shoes, spiked if the ground is soft and wet
• A bobble hat and a snood or neck warmer
• Hand warmers for the coldest days
• A dry towel kept under the umbrella

Store your clubs well over the off-season too, see how to store golf clubs over winter, and keep sharp with how to practise golf over winter. Browse waterproofs and midlayers.

Frequently asked questions

What kit do I need for winter golf?

Warm winter gloves for both hands, a breathable midlayer, a waterproof shell, low-compression balls that stay soft in the cold, grippy shoes, and a hat and neck warmer. Layering is the key.

What golf ball is best in cold weather?

A low-compression ball such as the Srixon Soft Feel or Wilson Duo Soft, ideally in a high-visibility finish so you can track it against grey skies. Firm premium balls feel hard and lose distance in the cold.

Should you wear two gloves for winter golf?

Yes. Winter gloves are designed to be worn on both hands to keep them warm between shots, unlike a normal single golf glove. They are the best upgrade for cold-weather play.

Is it bad to play golf in winter?

Not at all, as long as you dress for it and the course is open. Winter golf keeps your game ticking over, and with the right kit it is comfortable. Just avoid frosty or waterlogged greens when courses ask you to.