British winters don't have to mean the end of your golf season. Plenty of golfers play year-round — and many of them will tell you that a crisp winter morning on a quiet course is one of the best experiences the game has to offer. Frost on the fairways, no queues on the tee, and a hot drink waiting in the clubhouse at the end.

The difference between a miserable winter round and a great one almost always comes down to kit. Here's what's worth investing in.

The Non-Negotiables

A Waterproof Jacket

This is the single most important piece of winter golf clothing. Not a shower-resistant jacket — a genuinely waterproof one. The difference matters enormously when you're three hours into a round and the rain hasn't stopped.

Look for a jacket with a high waterproof rating (10,000mm or above), taped seams, and a cut that allows a full golf swing without restriction. Brands like Galvin Green, Footwear, and Sunderland of Scotland make excellent golf-specific waterproofs. It's worth spending properly here — a good waterproof jacket will last years.

Waterproof Trousers

Often overlooked, but just as important as the jacket. Wet legs make for a miserable round. Golf-specific waterproof trousers are cut to allow movement and typically have full-length zips so you can put them on over your shoes without taking them off.

Waterproof Golf Shoes

Your feet are on the ground for four to five hours. If they get wet, the round is over in terms of enjoyment. Waterproof golf shoes — properly waterproof, not just water-resistant — are essential for winter play.

The FootJoy Men's Stormwalker Boot is built specifically for British winters: full waterproof protection, a warm boot silhouette, and excellent grip on wet turf. The FootJoy Women's Pro/SLX offers tour-level waterproof performance for women. Both are available on our Gear page →.

Wet Weather Gloves

Standard golf gloves become slippery when wet. Wet weather gloves — like the FootJoy RainGrip — are designed to grip better the wetter they get. Keep a pair in your bag from October through to April. At £25 for a pair, they're one of the best-value winter investments you can make.

The Significant Upgrades

Thermal Base Layers

A good thermal base layer under your golf shirt makes an enormous difference to comfort without restricting movement. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics that keep sweat away from the skin — cotton base layers hold moisture and make you colder.

A Waterproof Golf Bag Cover

Even if your bag is reasonably water-resistant, a dedicated rain cover keeps your clubs, grips, and accessories dry in heavy rain. The PowaKaddy Easy Fit Rain Cover is a well-made option that fits most cart bags. Dry grips mean better grip — it's a practical investment, not just a comfort one.

Hand Warmers

Chemical hand warmers — the disposable kind you activate by shaking — are a winter golf staple. Keep two in your pockets and your hands will stay warm between shots. Reusable electric hand warmers are a more sustainable option and work just as well.

A Beanie or Thermal Hat

You lose a significant amount of body heat through your head. A thermal beanie under your cap, or a golf-specific thermal hat, makes a real difference on cold mornings. The Callaway Winter Gift Set includes a beanie, socks, and mittens — a practical bundle for anyone kitting out for winter.

Adjusting Your Game for Winter Conditions

Equipment aside, winter golf requires a few adjustments to how you play:

Club up. Cold air is denser, and cold golf balls don't compress as well. You'll lose distance — typically 10–15 yards on longer shots. Club up accordingly and don't be surprised when your 7-iron doesn't go as far as it does in July.

Allow for soft ground. Winter fairways are softer and slower. Your ball won't run as far after landing. Factor this into your approach shot calculations.

Adjust your expectations. Winter scores are typically higher. The conditions are harder, the ball doesn't travel as far, and the course plays longer. Accept this and focus on enjoying the round rather than chasing your summer scores.

Use winter rules. Most clubs operate preferred lies (also called winter rules) during the winter months, allowing you to lift, clean, and place your ball on the fairway. Check with your club what rules are in operation before you play.

What You Don't Need

A few things that are often marketed as winter golf essentials but aren't:

Heated gloves. Expensive, bulky, and not actually that effective for golf. Wet weather gloves and hand warmers do the job better.

A full new wardrobe. If you already have a decent waterproof jacket and trousers, you don't need to replace everything. Add the key items — wet weather gloves, thermal base layer, waterproof shoes — and you're set.

Winter-specific golf balls. Some manufacturers sell "winter" golf balls, but the difference is marginal. Use your regular ball and accept the distance loss.

---

Fred & Ginger Golf Prompt Cards include shot-making cues for all conditions — including the adjustments you need to make when the course is playing long and soft. Browse the range →