Just over a year ago we reported that the game of golf is not dead based on encouraging data from the National Golf Foundation’s participation report. According to the foundation, 2016 saw a record number of people hitting the course for the first time (2.5 million) and an increase in off-course participation at facilities like Top Golf.
So is that still the case, considering the number of rounds played was down last year? Well, it all depends on the weather. While rounds were down 4.8% in 2018 compared to 2017, they weren’t down as much as they should have been given the wet (in other words: unplayable) conditions in key parts of the country. (1)
Grab your calculator. According to historical data from Weather Trends International, each one inch increase in rain equals a 2.2% decline in rounds of golf played. With rainfall up 2.3 inches in 2018, rounds played should have decreased 5.1% according to WTI’s ratio. That means golfers were on the course more than usual given the wet weather patterns. (2)
Just in case the rainy trend continues this year, these promos will help keep you and your gear looking good:
62191 FootJoy® Sport Windshirt – Don’t let weather impact your game. This half-zip pullover features a durable nylon ripstop shell for wind/water resistance, an extra long front zipper and side pockets for hand warmth and comfort. Includes embroidered imprint on the left chest.
15291 Large Golf Umbrella – Keep yourself and your clubs dry with this manual golf umbrella that has a 60″ arc. Fits up to two people.
62473 – Titleist® Tour Mesh Snapback Cap – This cap has ballistic mesh fabric, a temperature regulating front panel and moisture wicking sweatband to help players stay comfortable for the whole round. Includes snapback closure and embroidered imprint on the right side.
62087 Nike® Departure Shoe Tote – A sleek and functional shoe bag option with a classic design and internal divider to help keep shoes protected from each other during storage. Features a tone-on-tone swoosh, fleece-lined main compartment and mesh panels for ventilation with embroidered imprint.
61643 Golf Towel – Perfect for every golfer and golf tournaments, this 100% cotton towel has a corner grommet and hook for attaching to golf bags or belts.
Dismiss the Weather Myths
If you’re curious about how much weather affects your golf game, here are some myths busted regarding your golf game and the climate at the course. (3)
- Humidity does not prevent golf balls from flying as far because of heavier air. The more humid it is the farther a ball will travel, but the difference is pretty small. A change in humidity from 10% to 90% will account for less than a yard of difference when using a 6-iron.
- We all hear meteorologists talk about low and high pressure systems on the evening news, but does that impact ball flight? No, air pressure accounts for less than a yard of difference off the tee.
- Temperature changes will affect ball flight, but it may not be enough to use it as an excuse for a short drive. Going from 40 to 100 degrees will only increase a 6-iron shot by 8 yards and a driver by 9 yards. Basically, for every 10 degrees expect a change of approximately a yard.
The weather conditions that actually impact distance include wind, altitude and air density. Denser air creates more resistance that allows golf balls to fly higher, but not quite as far. (4)
60714 Titleist® Pro V1® Golf Ball – The Pro V1® is designed for serious golfers seeking tour-level golf ball performance and technology. Provides an exceptional combination of distance, consistent flight and very soft feel.
62441 TaylorMade® TP5x Std Serv – The Tri-Fast Core and Dual-Spin Cover combine for 5-layer construction that is specifically engineered to perform with any golf club. Progressive compression enables maximum energy transfer to generate massive speed on full shots.
20861 Callaway® Warbird® Golf Ball – The Warbird Golf Ball is designed for distance and maximum flight with a high-energy core and 2-piece design. The proprietary surface pattern reduces drag and promotes high launch for increased speed, hang-time and distance.
60858 Wilson® Ultra 500 Distance – Ultra 500 Golf Balls provide long-lasting durability with a high energy core and unique dimple pattern that provides tour-like distance. The durable cover helps ensure longevity through a range of play conditions.
Visit bicgraphic.com to view all our golf products perfect for upcoming tournaments, outings and scrambles.
One thought on “Is the Golf Industry Really Under the Weather?”