The Distance Illusion in Cold Weather
You hit your 7-iron 150 yards all summer.
Today it flies 138.
You didn’t forget how to swing.
The environment changed.
The Density Problem
Cold air is denser than warm air.
Denser air increases drag.
Increased drag reduces carry distance.
A general rule:
You lose approximately 1.5 percent of distance for every 20°F drop in temperature.
Your “150-yard club” becomes a 144-yard club quickly.
The Golf Ball Itself Changes
Modern golf balls rely on compression.
When temperatures drop:
A cold ball is slower.
Keep a ball in your pocket to stay warm and rotate each hole.
The Strategy Mandate
Club Up
Ego wants the 7-iron.
The scorecard wants the 5-iron.
Swing Smooth
Cold muscles protect themselves. Swinging harder increases tension and inconsistency. If you want to understand what actually produces speed without forcing it, study the science of swing speed.
Reset Emotionally
Use the 10-Second Reset after inevitable mishits. Cold rounds test composure.
Winter golf builds decision-making. Emotional control in these moments is part of building a resilient mental game strategy.
That skill transfers to June.