Understanding Winter Golf: Why Caddies Matter More Than Ever

As we move into wetter, colder conditions, golf changes and so should the way players and caddies think about each shot.

In winter, there’s no roll out. That 250 yard drive in summer might only carry 230 now, and once it lands, it’s stopping dead. Suddenly, carry distances matter far more than total yardage.

Lay-ups that used to leave a comfortable wedge in can easily come up short, approaches need an extra club (or two), and even fairway bunkers become more in play than usual.

For caddies, this is where real skill comes in. Understanding how temperature, turf conditions, and ball flight affect each and every shot is key. It’s not just about yardages; it’s about reading the course differently.

A great caddie helps a player adapt quickly, choose smarter targets, and manage expectations when the ball just doesn’t fly like it does in July.

Winter golf isn’t harder, it’s just a different game. The best caddies (and players) embrace that.