How Does Weather Affect My Golf Ball?

Not everyone plays golf in ideal conditions. Folks in Texas play more links style golf, where others are used to playing in the cold. Even for those fortunate to live in near-perfect golf weather, it's essential to know how your golf game is affected by conditions. Read on to learn more, and don't forget to contact Arizona Ranch & Resort Cars in Prescott Valley, Arizona, today! We have an entire selection of new and used golf car cars to choose from, serving all of Flagstaff and Surprise.

Playing Golf in the Cold

Physics dictates that a golf ball travels less distance in the cold for a couple of reasons. For starters, cold air is heavier than warm air, which creates more resistance for your golf ball. Another reason is an inefficient transfer of energy, produced by cold air, resulting in less club speed and ball flight. To compensate for the cold, you may want to consider using a lower compression ball once the temperature dips below 50 degrees.

Playing Golf in Warm Weather

In warmer air, however, everything responds better. The rubber inside the balls responds to the club by increasing spin. Warm air is also less dense, meaning your ball will also travel farther. 

Factor in Club for Selection

Perfect golf weather is considered 90 degrees. For every 10 degrees, factor in 2 yards of distance, plus or minus, to your shot. The same principle applies in windy conditions. For every 10 miles per hour of wind, add or subtract 2 yards of distance. For example, if you usually hit your driver 230 yards at the optimal playing condition of 90 degrees, you would only hit it 222 yards at 50 degrees.  

Windy Condition Golf Tips

Headwinds, or wind blowing into you, and tailwinds, the wind blowing out, also affect the angle and height of your shot. For example, if you usually hit your 6-iron 153 with no wind, you'd hit 161 with a ten mph tailwind and 165 with a 20 mph tailwind. Keep in mind, headwind shots soar high and land steep, while tailwind shots fly low and land flat. Pro tip: If you're playing in very windy conditions, consider a low launch angle to take off hang time and help the ball roll more.

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