Summer golf in Central Oregon can be a charming experience for you and your pals. Imagine the warm sun shining over your head with clear blue skies and a stunning landscape. It all makes summer an ideal season for golfing, doesn’t it? But playing golf in summer months can also bring unique challenges. The heat, dry air, the sun’s intensity, and sweaty hands all saps your energy. In fact, these factors pose an injury risk if you’re prepared for summer golfing. So, you may wonder what precautions to take.
We at River’s Edge Golf Course in Bend, Oregon, know how to help you make the most of summer golf. From early tee times to shaded terrain and helpful amenities, we’re to support your game. Keeping you cool in July and August is our prerogative. This detailed guide will walk you through everything, from tips to precautions; you gotta know how to stay cool on a golf course and perform your best this summer.
Why Summer Golf Requires a Different Approach?
Golf is slowly becoming America’s true national sport. Over 2 million people in the US played golf for the 1st time in 2015, and these numbers aren’t slowing down. The peak golf season in the West Coast region arrives in January, lasting until March. However, Central Oregon is a golfer’s paradise since it enjoys 300 sunny days a year; in summer, you get cool mornings and low-humidity noons. Bend’s 3,600-foot elevation is a key reason why summer golf in the Beaver State is just perfect. But keep in mind that golf in summer is not just about swinging your clubs under the sun; course conditions and your physique matter as well.
Course Conditions Change in the Summer
Central Oregon summers can be dry and warm. So, the golf course may behave differently than in cooler seasons. For example:
- Firmer fairways can cause your ball to roll farther after landing.
- Greens may speed up because of the dry and humid conditions.
- Putting becomes a little challenging due to the changing weather.
- Your shots will travel longer distances but also bounce unpredictably.
That’s why you should adjust your club selection and shot strategy. We often advise patrons to use less club off the tee. Since the ball rolls more. Also, taking a softer approach shot is advisable so the ball does not roll past the pin on fast greens.
Physical and Mental Impact of Heat
Playing golf in the summer heat often takes a toll on your stamina. The sun’s intensity increases the risk of dehydration. Higher temperatures make you lose concentration again and again. You may experience fatigue when playing, which leads to inconsistent swings. Heat exhaustion and sunburn are real risks for poorly prepared golfers. But hydration isn’t just about playing better; you have to:
- Stay safe while golfing
- Hydrate well (and frequently)
- Pacing yourself on the golf course
- Dressing appropriately (check the next section)
That’s how you keep your mind sharp. We at River’s Edge offer early tee times so you begin your round before the heat peaks. Our course also features shaded holes and tree-lined fairways. Also, we’ll provide welcome relief from the sun’s glare.
What to Wear? Summer Golf Apparel That Keeps You Cool
What you wear on the course makes a huge difference in how comfortable you feel during your round. So, the right golf apparel can help you manage sweat and protect your skin.
Choose Moisture-Wicking and Breathable Fabrics
You should wear golf shirts/pants made from moisture-wicking materials. These clothes pull sweat drops away from your skin. Also, they tend to dry a lot faster. These fabrics will regulate your body temp. They prevent the clammy feeling that becomes annoyingly distracting during a swing. Lightweight polyester is perfect for summer golfing. Don’t go with heavy cotton or dark colors. They absorb heat and even hold moisture. Instead, you should opt for light colors like white or pastels. These hues reflect sunlight, so you stay cooler.
Protect Your Head and Eyes
You can shield your face and neck from direct sunlight with a wide-brimmed hat. We recommend bigger hats that come with ventilation holes or mesh panels that let air rush in, keeping your head cool when it is hot (both literally and figuratively). Golf-specific sunglasses are not just about style; they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. They also reduce glare and help you see the ball as clear as the sky. We suggest getting polarized lenses as well since they’re especially helpful on sunny days.
You should also look into whether to play golf early in the morning or in late afternoon.
Use Cooling Accessories
Cooling towels and neck wraps provide you instant relief when you’ve soaked them in cold water. When you wear them around your neck, they will protect you from the sun. Also, you can carry these summer golfing accessories in your golf bag. Golf gloves improve your grip even when your hands are sweaty. It’s advised to look for gloves made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials. This way, you’ll maintain control over the club, and your hands won’t overheat.
Smart Hydration and Nutrition on the Course
Dehydration is bad for your performance, even mild one. Even a 1.5% loss in your body/mass weight can degrade your performance. Don’t let dehydration sneak up on you. When you feel dizzy, drink water.
Drink Water Regularly
In fact, you should drink water regularly to remain hydrated well before your round. Also, drink plenty of water and juices throughout the day. Even if you’re not feeling particularly thirsty, you should sip water since dehydration doesn’t bare its fangs early on. Some more tips include:
- Carry a refillable water bottle with you.
- Avoid sugary drinks until after your round.
- Don’t consume sodas or alcohol in lieu of water.
Pack Light, Nutritious Snacks
Eating the right snacks will help maintain your energy levels without weighing you down. You should:
- Pack easy-to-carry fresh fruit (apples or bananas).
- Keep protein bars, nuts, trail mix, etc., on your person.
- Bring electrolyte drinks or supplements to replace minerals lost through sweat.
Staying properly fueled and hydrated helps you focus throughout your game.
Heat-Smart Playing Strategies for Better Performance
Why don’t you adjust your playing style for summer heat? It will help you conserve energy. Also, you’ll avoid burnout, making your round easily enjoyable and 100% productive.
Pace Yourself and Play Conservatively
Summer golf isn’t the time to push yourself to the limit. That’s what we tell our patrons all the time. You should focus on smooth, controlled swings and consistent shorts. So, don’t try to hit the ball with all the strength you can muster. Conservative golfing will help you save energy. You also maintain the accuracy of your shots this way.
Use a Golf Cart and Rest in the Shade
Using a golf course is never a bad idea in the months of June and July. In fact, renting a golf cart will help you reduce fatigue, especially if you’re walking long miles. So, do take advantage of shaded rest areas to cool down and catch your breath. Even short breaks in the shade help regulate your body temperature.
Adjust Your Expectations
We at River’s Edge always like reminding patrons that summer golf is about enjoying the game and the gorgeous outdoors. Don’t focus all your attention on breaking personal records or exhausting yourself. Instead, you must adjust your expectations according to the weather when you’re playing golf in the summer months. We recommend taking breaks, playing at a comfortable speed, and focusing on having fun. This way, you can stay fresh and enjoy every shot.
Enjoy Golf in Summer Comfortably at River’s Edge
The River’s Edge Golf Course helps you enjoy summer golf comfortably with 100% confidence. Also, our elevated location provides natural breezes that help keep temperatures pleasant even on warmer days. We recommend scheduling early morning tee times to beat the heat, enjoying a smoother pace of play. Our course features plenty of shaded holes and tree-lined fairways. Also, our friendly staff is there for you, suggesting ways to manage summer conditions and make the most of your visit.
Are you ready to enjoy golf this summer without overheating your game? Book your next round today at the River’s Edge Golf Course. Experience a course designed with your comfort and enjoyment in mind. A perfect round awaits you and your golfing buddies. So, bring out the summer’s golfer in you.