Fall & Winter Golf Tips for Women: How to Stay Warm, Play Better, and Enjoy the Off-Season

As the temperatures drop and daylight gets shorter, golf doesn’t have to go on pause; it just requires a little more planning. With the right gear, smart strategies, and a few seasonal adjustments, you can stay comfortable and keep your game sharp all through fall and winter. Here’s how to make the most of those chilly rounds.

1. Layer Smart

Layering is the foundation of staying warm without sacrificing performance. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (avoid cotton, which holds onto sweat). Ibkul tops are a popular choice because they’re lightweight, breathable, and designed to move with you.

Next, add a cozy mid-layer like a fleece pullover or a light quilted vest to trap heat close to your body. A great pick is the Dunning insulated vest, which offers warmth without bulk. On especially cold days, consider a heated vest — rechargeable battery-powered options can keep your core warm for hours.

Your final layer should be wind- and water-resistant to protect against brisk gusts or unexpected drizzle. Look for outerwear with stretch panels or performance fabrics so your swing stays fluid and unrestricted.

Don’t forget about your lower half. Golf pants designed for cooler temps, like these Abendroth pants, offer comfort, warmth, and flexibility. Thermal leggings under your pants can also add a hidden layer of insulation.

2. Keep Your Hands Warm

Cold hands can ruin a good round quickly. Use cart mitts between shots or stash disposable hand warmers in your pockets. Brands like FootJoy and Callaway offer excellent options under $40. Another game-changer is a pair of winter golf gloves. They’re designed to provide extra grip in cold or damp conditions, so you don’t have to sacrifice control.

3. Stay Toasty from the Ground Up

If your feet are cold, the rest of you won’t be far behind. Thermal socks are a must, and pairing them with waterproof golf shoes helps keep out moisture from dew or light rain. Adding an insole or toe warmers can provide an extra layer of comfort and might be the difference between finishing 18 holes or calling it quits early.

4. Plan for Fewer Hours of Daylight

As fall turns into winter, daylight disappears faster than you think. Book your tee times earlier in the day to make the most of available light. And once the sun sets, a small flashlight for your bag or car makes packing up much easier. If your course offers twilight rounds, keep in mind that pace of play might need to pick up a bit to finish before dark.

5. Play a “Winter Ball”

Visibility matters when leaves are on the ground. Brightly colored balls think orange, pink, or yellow make it easier to keep track of your shots. We love the Volvik Crystal Combi for its vibrant color and soft feel. Plus, every dozen supports the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Don’t hesitate to use the “Leaf Rule” during casual rounds if your ball is buried under foliage. (Just skip this one during league or tournament play.) Switching to a softer compression ball can also help you maintain distance in cold weather, as they perform better when the air is dense and temperatures drop.

6. Warm Up Your Muscles

Your muscles take longer to loosen up in the cold, and swinging without warming up can lead to stiffness or even injury. Start with gentle movements like arm circles, side bends, and lunges to boost circulation. Make a few slow, full swings with your club before teeing off, and keep moving between holes even small movements like light stretches or walking in place can help you stay limber.

7. Accessorize Wisely

Accessories might seem like an afterthought, but the right ones make a big difference. A cozy beanie or ear band helps trap heat, while sunglasses shield your eyes from the low winter sun that can be surprisingly intense. And don’t forget lip balm and moisturizer, wind and cold air can dry out your skin quickly over several hours outdoors.

8. Be Flexible with Expectations

Cooler conditions change how the course plays. Greens tend to be slower, fairways can stay softer, and your drives might not travel quite as far. Instead of chasing your summer scores, focus on the experience the fresh air, the company, and the chance to stay active all season long. Winter golf is more about enjoying the game than setting personal records.

Bonus Tip: Bring the Heat

If you’re riding in a cart, a small propane heater can make a world of difference. Most models are compact enough to fit in a cup holder and can keep you warm even on frosty mornings. Pair it with a golf cart cover to block out wind and hold in warmth, and you’ll have a cozy setup that lets you focus on your swing.