Rain is one of the most common weather challenges golfers encounter. While many courses close during heavy downpours, light to moderate rain is playable and can actually offer advantages if you know how to adapt. Understanding how rain affects the course and your game is crucial for consistent performance.
When rain falls on a golf course, it soaks into the fairways and rough, making the ground softer and more receptive. This means your ball won't roll as far after landing – a phenomenon called "holding the green." A shot that would normally roll 20 yards past the green might stop right on the putting surface when the course is wet.
The rough becomes thicker and more difficult to escape from when wet. Grass holds more water, creating more resistance when you swing through it. Many golfers find they need to take a more aggressive swing to escape wet rough, or they might need to accept a longer shot to get back to the fairway.
In wet conditions, most golfers need to club up – use a longer club than they normally would. If you'd normally hit a 6-iron for 170 yards, you might need a 5-iron in the rain. The extra club compensates for the reduced distance caused by the wet conditions and the ball not rolling as far.
On approach shots, the softer ground actually works in your favor. You can be more aggressive knowing the ball will stop quickly. This is one of the few advantages of playing in rain.
Keep your grips dry by using a towel frequently. Wet grips are slippery and can cause mishits. Consider using a rain glove or keeping a spare glove in your bag. Waterproof golf shoes with good traction are essential – slipping during your swing is dangerous and ruins your shot.
Use a waterproof golf bag cover to protect your clubs and keep your golf balls dry. Wet golf balls perform differently than dry ones, so having dry balls available is important.
Learn more about weather conditions and how they impact your game. Also check out our equipment guide for rain-specific gear recommendations.