Golfing in the Rain: Tips for Wet Weather Play

12 October 2025

Golf is a game of patience, precision, and adaptability. But what happens when the skies open up and the rain starts pouring down? Do you pack up your clubs and head for the clubhouse, or do you embrace the challenge that wet weather golf presents? If you're a true golf enthusiast, you know that a little rain shouldn't stop you from enjoying the game.

Playing golf in the rain can be tricky, but with the right approach, mindset, and gear, you can turn what seems like a disadvantage into an enjoyable and rewarding experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about golfing in the rain—how to stay dry, keep your grip, and adjust your strategy to make the most of the wet conditions.

Why Play Golf in the Rain?

You might be wondering, why on earth would anyone want to golf in the rain? While fair-weather golfing is undoubtedly more comfortable, there are actually a few perks to playing in wet conditions:

- Fewer Crowds: Many golfers prefer to stay indoors when it rains, meaning the course is less crowded. This gives you a more peaceful and unrushed game.
- Improved Focus: Rain forces you to concentrate more on your shots, making you play smarter and more strategically.
- Softer Greens: Wet greens slow down the ball, making it easier to attack the pin and stick your landings.
- A Real Challenge: If you truly want to test your skills, playing in the rain is a great way to sharpen your game against the elements.

If you’re willing to embrace the challenge, wet-weather golf can be a thrilling experience!

Essential Gear for Golfing in the Rain

To survive (and enjoy) a wet round of golf, the right gear is crucial. Here are some must-haves for staying dry and comfortable:

1. Waterproof Golf Clothing

A high-quality waterproof golf jacket and pants will keep you dry without restricting your swing. Look for breathable, lightweight materials that repel water but still allow you to move freely.

2. Rain Gloves

Grip is everything in wet weather, and standard golf gloves just won’t cut it. Invest in a good pair of rain gloves that actually improve grip the wetter they get.

3. Waterproof Golf Shoes

Slipping around on the course is no fun. Waterproof, spiked golf shoes provide the traction you need to stay steady on wet turf while keeping your feet dry.

4. Golf Umbrella

A large, sturdy umbrella is a rain-day lifesaver. Not only does it keep you dry between shots, but it also protects your clubs from getting soaked.

5. Golf Bag Rain Cover

Your clubs and grips should stay as dry as possible. A golf bag rain cover prevents water from seeping into your bag, keeping your equipment dry and in top condition.

6. Extra Towels

Always carry multiple golf towels—one to dry your hands and grips, and another to wipe down your clubs after each shot. Keeping your equipment dry can make a huge difference.

Adjusting Your Game for Wet Weather

Playing in the rain isn’t as simple as just wearing the right gear. You also need to adjust your approach to accommodate the slippery conditions. Here are some key adjustments to help you perform better in wet weather:

1. Adjust Your Grip

Wet conditions make club grips slippery, which can lead to mishits. Grip the club slightly firmer than usual, but not so tight that it affects your swing. Rain gloves can help maintain a solid grip without over-squeezing the club.

2. Pick the Right Golf Ball

Choose a softer golf ball that has better control and feel on wet greens. A high-spin ball will help with accuracy and stopping power on waterlogged greens.

3. Club Selection Changes

Rain-soaked fairways reduce roll, so you may need to club up—meaning, use a longer club than you normally would for the same distance. A shot that normally requires an 8-iron might now need a 7-iron.

4. Focus on a Controlled Swing

A big, aggressive swing increases the chances of slipping. Instead, focus on a smooth, controlled swing to maintain balance and accuracy. Think of it like driving in the rain—you wouldn’t floor the gas pedal on a slick road!

5. Be Mindful of the Greens

Wet greens are slower, so putts won’t roll as far. You’ll need to hit putts with a little extra force while maintaining control. Also, expect less break since moisture slows down ball movement.

6. Keep Your Hands and Clubs Dry

Constantly dry your hands and grips before each shot. Wet grips can cause the club to twist in your hands, leading to unpredictable shots.

Mental Toughness: The Key to Mastering Rainy Golf

Let’s be real—playing in the rain isn’t always fun. It can test your patience and resilience, but that's where mental toughness comes in. Here's how to stay mentally strong:

- Stay Positive: Instead of seeing the rain as a problem, view it as an opportunity to challenge yourself. The best golfers learn to adapt.
- Embrace the Conditions: Accept that you'll get wet and that shots might not go exactly as planned. That’s part of the game.
- Stay Relaxed: The more frustrated you get, the worse you’ll play. Take deep breaths and focus on each shot.
- Laugh It Off: Sometimes, all you can do is laugh at the situation. A little rain never hurt anyone!

If you can conquer golf in the rain, you’ll come out a stronger, more well-rounded player.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Wet Weather Golf

Even experienced golfers make mistakes when playing in the rain. Avoid these common pitfalls:

- Using Normal Gloves – Regular gloves lose grip when wet. Rain gloves are a must.
- Forgetting to Club Up – Wet fairways stop the ball quicker, so you need to use a longer club.
- Ignoring Your Footing – Wet grass is slippery. Stable footing with proper spikes or waterproof shoes is key.
- Not Drying Clubs and Hands – Wet grips equal disastrous shots. Keep a towel handy at all times.
- Underestimating Green Speeds – Wet greens are slower, so putts require more power than usual.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you stay competitive, even when the rain is working against you.

Final Thoughts

Golfing in the rain isn’t for the faint of heart, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences on the course. Think of it as training—a way to test and refine your skills under less-than-ideal conditions.

The next time rain clouds roll in, don’t run for cover. Embrace the challenge, gear up properly, and adjust your strategy. Who knows? You might find that wet-weather golf turns into one of your favorite ways to play!

So, are you ready to take on the elements and show Mother Nature who's boss?