Wind
Wind is the weather factor that influences ball flight in golf more than any other.
Wind changes the distance, height and direction of every shot. A headwind shortens the distance and makes the ball climb more steeply; a tailwind lengthens the flight and pushes the landing flatter. A crosswind shifts the line, by several metres depending on direction. This is especially noticeable on open coastal courses of the Links type, where hardly any trees break the wind. Anyone who knows their ball's Ball Flights can factor the wind into their planning instead of experiencing it as a surprise.
In practice this means: adjust club selection and swing. An example: a par 3 over 140 metres into a strong frontal headwind. Instead of the usual 8 iron you take the 6 iron, swing smoothly and keep the ball low. With a crosswind from the left, you deliberately aim left at the edge of the green and let the wind carry the ball back. To play out from a row of trees while staying under the wind, the low Punch helps, because the ball stays below the gust zone. Even on the green the wind plays along: in strong gusts you widen your stance when putting to stand calmly.
The most common mistake in a headwind is swinging harder. More swing speed creates more Backspin, and it is precisely that spin that makes the ball climb and slow down in a headwind. The ball then falls steeply and far shorter than planned. Better is the old tour wisdom: swing smoothly in the wind, take one more club and keep the ball down. Anyone who fights the wind loses; anyone who plans for it wins.
FAQ
How many more clubs do I take in a headwind?
The rule of thumb: one more club per noticeable level of wind, and easily two in a strong headwind. More important than the number is the smooth swing, because anyone who swings harder against the wind creates more backspin — and that is exactly what makes the ball climb and slow down. A smooth three-quarter swing with the longer iron flies flatter and carries further.
How do I play to the green in a crosswind?
Deliberately aim beside the flag and let the wind carry the ball back instead of cutting into it. With wind from the left, aim at the left edge of the green; with wind from the right, vice versa. Anyone who knows their typical ball flights can even use a crosswind to amplify a curve.
Does wind also affect putting?
Yes, in strong gusts the wind can disturb your balance in the stance and, on loose ground, even move the ball at rest. Widen your stance slightly and keep your knees soft to stand calmly. If the ball moves on its own without you touching it, it is replaced without penalty.