Must-Have Accessories for Golfing in the Rain
You can enjoy golfing in the rain if you come prepared to face the elements. Here are nine must-have accessories to make sure you get the most out of your golf game... rain or shine.
9 Accessories for Rainy Weather Golf Games
Golfing in wet conditions presents a whole new set of challenges, even for the most experienced golfers. Rain changes your grip, your view, comfort, and the course itself, but it doesn’t have to stifle your game! If you’re up for the challenge, we’ve compiled a list of 9 accessories you’ll want to carry with you when golfing in stormy or rainy weather.
The PGA TOUR Superstore in Jacksonville has a large selection of accessories, including the items on the list below. Take a look:
1. Waterproofs
The best rain gear protects you without restricting your swing. Invest in a jacket, pants and headgear that are designed to stretch, keep you cool and dry, are lightweight, and that you can adjust if need be. Keep in mind that "water-resistant" is not the same as "waterproof." While water-resistant pants and shirts may be adequate to keep you dry in a light drizzle, to protect yourself in heavy downpours, you really need waterproofs. Particularly for your jacket, look for waterproof fabrics such as GORE-TEX. These high-quality fabrics are also breathable, so you won't accumulate moisture from perspiration inside the clothing. A lightweight jacket and pants from Footjoy Raingear will keep you dry and comfortable so you can enjoy every moment on the green. Add a Titleist Rain Bucket Hat (not available in store) to your rainy day gear for ultimate protection from the rain.
2. Umbrella
Well, this seems obvious, but a quality golf umbrella will help keep you and your equipment protected from the elements. Look for a strong umbrella with a large canopy, preferably with double layers to help air flow through, like Ping TOUR Umbrellas, so it doesn’t turn inside out. Don't forget a high-quality umbrella holder to attach your umbrella to your golf cart or carry bag. Adjustable holders allow you to move your umbrella in different directions, and can be a game-changer in a driving rain.
3. Grips
Ensure that your club doesn’t get away from you on the driving range with dry grips. Some grips perform better than others when wet so make sure yours can withstand a little moisture.
4. Gloves
Keep at least one pair of gloves in a plastic bag in your golf bag so that even if a pocket is left open, they haven’t gotten soaked. You can also invest in rain gloves that are designed specifically to grip well when wet. A pair of Footjoy Rain Gloves wick away the rain to improve your grip in wet and humid conditions. Having an extra set of gloves in case the first pair gets soaked through is not a bad idea, either.
5. Footwear
Be sure to wear waterproof shoes and pack a pair of dry socks, preferably storing them in a sealed, waterproof bag. Again, look for materials like GORE-TEX, which are breathable as well as waterproof, to ensure maximum comfort on the course.
6. Lotion
In a light drizzle, you may not see the need for carrying around a lot of accessories; try using a grip control lotion to maintain your grip on the club. One application should last you several hours.
7. Golf Bag Hood
Keeping your clubs dry with a waterproof hood for your golf bag will help you avoid drying your clubs frequently. Look for one that is lightweight, easily attachable and snug for a more enjoyable experience while golfing in the rain. The GGG Rain Hood will keep your clubs and supplies dry with adjustable velcro straps and zippered side panels.
8. Towels
Pack several towels for rainy day golf games. You’ll want to put these in sealable plastic bags as well. Keep in mind that you won’t only be using them to dry your face and hands; you’ll also be using them frequently to dry your clubs and the seat of your golf cart, so pack plenty.
9. Spare Scorecard
It’s not a bad idea to keep an extra scorecard in a dry place if you want to keep track of your score. Here’s a little tip too: It might seem like a no-brainer but jotting down your scores every few holes or so (instead of every hole) will help you keep your card out of the rain longer. Sometimes, we forget the small things.
With the right outlook and equipment, a little rain doesn’t have to keep you from the first-class courses along Florida’s First Coast. Just keep in mind that you’re carrying around a metal rod, so at first sight of lightning, be safe and call it quits until the storm blows over. Otherwise, a little water never hurt anyone, so get your gear, stay dry and enjoy your game!