Coaches Corner: Tips For Playing In Wet Weather

Tips for Playing in Wet Weather

Unfortunately, it’s that time of year again when we start dusting off umbrellas, rain pants, jackets, and maybe even the wet-weather gloves. While I hope this Easter brings a few surprise bluebird days, it’s also a good moment to refresh some key tips to help your golf game through the wet months.

Gear Up Right

Good equipment is crucial. A quality waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable in the worst weather. Many pros, myself included, prefer lighter layers on top—pairing a breathable outer shell with a wool or merino layer to trap warmth without bulk.

A lightweight, waterproof pair of leggings and a good pair of golf shoes with solid spikes are essential. Spikes do more than help you walk up hills—they’re critical for maintaining stability in your golf swing, especially on slippery ground. Stability ensures your connection to the turf is secure throughout your swing.

Hands and Grip – Keep Them Dry

One of the biggest game-changers in wet weather is keeping your grips and gloves dry. A lot of players wear their glove for the entire hole, only taking it off to putt. Instead, try this:

• Dry your grip with a towel before each shot.
• Put your glove on just before your swing.
• Take it off immediately afterward.

Why? Leaving your glove on means it often touches wet umbrellas, trolley handles, or towels—and that moisture reduces both grip performance and glove lifespan. Even proper wet-weather gloves perform best when kept as dry as possible.

Adjust Your Distances

In winter, your ball won’t travel as far—thanks to cooler temps, air density, and humidity. You’ll need to adjust your club selection accordingly. Consider “clubbing up” by at least one club and expect to lose about 10 meters off your typical distances.

Dealing With Wet Lies

Wet grass, especially on the fairway, reduces spin and carry. The clubface slows down in the grass, often leading to a non-square strike—causing pulls or pushes. You’ll need to hit these shots harder and cleaner.

Chipping and Around the Greens

Wet, heavy grass demands more commitment when chipping. A few key tips:

• Hit the chip harder than usual.
• Use more club to help get through the turf.
• Make sure to turn your body through the shot—don't stop at impact.

Lofted clubs can easily slide under the ball in soggy lies, so consider using lower-lofted clubs (like a 7- or 8-iron) for a bump-and-run. These give you better momentum and help the ball pop up and land softly.

Jack Nicklaus always said, “If you can use a putter from off the green, you should.” But in wet conditions, a putter might struggle to roll through waterlogged grass. A hybrid can be a great alternative—it provides added weight and momentum to push through thick grass without getting stuck.

Final Thoughts: Comfort = Performance

Winter golf may not be everyone's favourite, but being prepared makes a huge difference. To sum up, focus on:

• Waterproof shoes and solid spikes
• Dry gloves and clean, non-worn grips
• Comfortable, flexible clothing layers
• A good waterproof hat or a warm wool beanie

We all love fine-weather golf, but in places like Auckland, rain is sometimes unavoidable. So gear up and stay ready—and you'll still enjoy your golf this winter!