Course Management · Tip
Three Tips for Rainy Rounds
Part of our course management programs for wind and weather. Build a program with it
Rain makes everything harder, so get ready for it. Pack rain gloves, extra towels and an umbrella. Keep your grips and hands dry. Swing within yourself. Solid contact matters more than ever, and overswinging adds mistakes. And adjust to the course. Wet ground changes how chips react and how far balls roll. Change what you expect and which shots you choose.
Step by step
- Pack rain gloves, towels and an umbrella.
- Keep grips dry.
- Swing within yourself.
- Expect wet turf to change chips and roll.
- Choose shots for the conditions.
Why it works
Water on the grip and hands lets the club turn or slip, so dry grips keep your hold steady through impact. A smooth, controlled swing improves strike quality, and a clean strike matters more when wet grass and a wet ball reduce friction and spin. Wet turf also slows the ball on the ground, so shots land and roll differently than they do on a dry day.
Common mistakes
- You leave the towel in the bag and the grips get wet between shots.Hang a dry towel under the umbrella or on the bag, and wipe the grip and your hands before every shot.
- You swing harder to make up for the damp air and soft ground.Take one more club and swing at a smooth, balanced pace so you keep solid contact.
- You judge chips and putts using dry-day roll.Hit a few practice chips and putts early in the round and note how much shorter the ball rolls, then adjust your landing spot.
How you'll know it's working
- The club stays steady in your hands at impact and does not twist or slip.
- You strike the ball in the middle of the face and the ball flies on your intended start line.
- Your chips finish near the distance you planned after you adjusted for the wet turf.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Practise on the range or short-game area in light rain with a towel and umbrella set up, and play simple shots with a controlled swing.
Harder: Play a full round in steady rain and pick each shot for the conditions, such as landing the ball shorter on chips and taking extra club on approach shots.
Common questions
How do I keep my grips dry when playing golf in the rain?
Keep a dry towel under your umbrella or hood and wipe the grip and your hands before each shot. Rain gloves also help you hold the club when everything is wet.
Does a golf ball roll less on wet grass?
Yes, in general. Wet turf slows the ball, so chips and pitches usually stop sooner and running shots roll out less, and you should plan for that.
