Golf in summer vs. winter: the impact of the surface

For the golfer who plays year-round, the change between seasons is more than just a question of clothing choice. The physical state of the ground changes fundamentally under the influence of temperature and humidity, with a direct impact on the interaction between the ball and the surface. Understanding the science behind soil compaction and rolling resistance is crucial to adapting your course management to the changing conditions of summer and winter.

The physics of the fairway: rolling resistance and kinetic energy

When a golf ball hits the fairway, the forward speed is converted into a rolling motion. The distance the ball travels after landing, the so-called 'run', is determined by the laws of friction.

In summer, the ground is often dry and hard. Through evaporation, the moisture content in the top layer is minimal, making the ground less elastic. When the ball lands, less kinetic energy is absorbed by the ground; the ball bounces higher and rolls further because the friction between the hard surface and the smooth cover of the ball is low.

In winter, by contrast, the ground is saturated with water. This creates a softer, sponge-like surface. On impact, the ground absorbs the energy of the ball (an effect called 'plugging' in golf when the ball stops immediately). The rolling resistance is many times greater here due to the density of the wet grass and the deformable mud layer, so the ball often comes to a stop right after landing.

The influence on total distance

The difference in total distance between a summer and a winter course can rise to 20 or even 40 metres per hole for an average golfer.

• Summer conditions: The carry (distance in the air) is often greater because of the warmer air, but the enormous run on the fairway delivers the biggest gain. A ball that flies 180 metres can easily roll out to 210 metres on a hard fairway.
• Winter conditions: The carry decreases because of the higher air density (cold air), and the run is virtually nil. The same 180-metre shot will probably stay at 180 metres in winter, or even bounce back a few centimetres into its own pitchmark.

Adjusting strategy: course management

Because the ground differs so much, the golfer has to adjust their strategy by season to keep scoring consistently.

Playing in summer: anticipating the roll

In summer, the fairway is your ally for distance, but your enemy for precision. When approaching the green, you have to take into account that the ball will not stop as quickly.

• Club selection: You can often take one club less (for example an 8-iron instead of a 7) because the ball will roll further after landing.
• Landing zone: Aim short of the green rather than directly at the flag, so that the ball has room to roll towards the hole.

Playing in winter: focus on carry

In winter, the air is your only route to distance. Because you cannot rely on the roll, you have to hit the ball as far as possible in the air.

• Club selection: Take at least one or two clubs more to bridge the distance to the flag entirely through the air.
• Angle of attack: For the driver, it can help to tee the ball slightly higher so you hit it more on the way up. This maximises carry and prevents the ball from being smothered into the soft fairway.

The health of the course

Ground condition also has an ethical component. In winter, the ground is vulnerable to compaction. Walking on wet fairways or driving carts compresses the soil structure, which worsens drainage for the next season. Strictly observing local rules, such as 'preferred lies' (where you may move the ball within a set distance to ensure a clean lie) and following the paths, helps the course recover faster for summer.

Conclusion

The transition from summer to winter golf requires a mental and tactical shift. Where summer is about managing the roll and navigating a fast, hard surface, winter calls for precision in the air and acceptance of a shorter total distance. By adjusting your equipment and club selection to the moisture level and hardness of the fairway, you not only play more effectively, but also with a deeper understanding of the natural dynamics of the golf course.