Golf In Autumn: Layering Tips

Welcome to autumn golf! Long, warm summer days are now in the rear-view mirror as crisp mornings and unpredictable weather herald a seasonal transition.

Being comfortable on the course is always linked to playing golf. And in autumn weather, maintaining a Goldilocks level of comfort — not too hot, not too cold — is a serious advantage.

The key is to layer up so you can adapt to changing temperatures and weather conditions during your round. But layering isn’t just about adding more clothes; it needs to be more strategic than that...

Here’s how to do it right:

1. START WITH A BASE LAYER

Base layers are a critical component of autumn golf. After all, they’re the first line of defence in the quest to remain comfortable in variable weather conditions.

The key is choosing the right type of base layer. For colder days, start with a thicker thermal base layer. If it’s looking warmer, choose a lighter base layer that will wick the sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and cool. Polyester and nylon fabric blends offer the best moisture-wicking properties, providing relief even on those sticky, humid autumn days.

A good base layer should fit securely against your skin, without being restrictive. And given base layers are nearly always long sleeved, they’ll provide excellent protection (UPF50+) when the autumn sun beats down.

2. THE MID LAYER PIVOT

Mid layer apparel needs to serve as both an insulator against the autumn chill and a breathable, stretchable layer that will radiate heat away from your body in warmer conditions.

For most players, a typical mid layer set-up will include a polo shirt and a quarter-zip pullover. But, above all, the mid layer needs to be lightweight and easy to add or remove.

On those cool autumn mornings, wearing a quarter zip pullover or fleece jumper will trap heat near your skin to keep the goosebumps at bay. When, or if, the morning chill fades and the heat ramps up, simply take it off and store it in a pocket of your golf bag.

In warmer autumn weather, just a simple lightweight, stretchable polo should keep you sufficiently cool and comfortable on the course.

3. ON THE OUTER!

You won’t need to suit up with an outer layer on calm, mild autumn days. But when the autumn weather becomes more winter-like and the wind and rain set in, then adding an outer layer isn’t optional — it’s a necessity.

As the final line of defence against the elements, an outer layer should be windproof and/or waterproof.

A lightweight windbreaker outer layer will be a reliable go-to for windy days. But investing in a quality waterproof rain jacket and pants combo will ensure your outer layer withstands the worst that autumn can throw at you.

You must, however, ensure any outer layer apparel is breathable and can be stored easily in your golf bag when not required. And finally, your outer layer should feature plenty of pockets to store things in, so you can focus on battling the elements out on the course.

4. HATS WHAT WE’RE TALKING ABOUT

The final layer required for autumn golf is the one that sits on your bonce. That’s right, your headwear!

Wearing a hat or cap will shield your face from the sun, keeping you both cool and protected. However, in cooler autumn conditions consider wearing a beanie. It’ll keep your head warm and help regulate your body temperature.

TO BECOME A PLAYER… REMEMBER TO LAYER

The key to successful layering in autumn:

• Make sure your layers don’t restrict your swing.
• Ensure your layers are lightweight and easy to put on and remove.
• Invest in quality base, mid and outer layers. You might pay a little more, but they'll be more durable and will outperform and outlast cheaper ones.
• Happy autumn golfing!