One of the beautiful things about golf is the many ways we can enjoy it. Whether alone or with friends, from courses across the country or hitting golf balls in your backyard, the game takes many forms from practice to play. The opportunity to take in the fresh air, feel the sunshine, and be out on a great green space is one of the biggest joys in the game.
But when was the last time you walked a round at a golf course? How often do you take some time for yourself and experience all your favorite course has to offer? What do you need to walk the course for your next tee time? In this guide, TGW will take you through the gear you need to walk the golf course and get the most out of playing a round of golf on your own.
The Right Golf Bag
To walk the golf course, you have to have the right golf bag. You will want to pick a bag that is lightweight so it doesn’t slow you down and zap your energy at the end of the round because you are tired of lugging it around.
Stand bags are the best all-around option. They are built for walking the course with a base that includes durable legs to keep your golf clubs and accessories easily at hand when you put the bag down. Stand bags are light, usually less than 7 pounds, and feature anywhere from 4 to 14 dividers to hold an entire set of golf clubs. These golf bags are also incredibly versatile from being easy to carry to attaching the most push and pull cart models.
For golfers who want an even lighter golf bag when playing a quick round, try a carry bag. These bags are the lightest in weight and feature minimal dividers and just a few pockets so you can carry only the essentials. They often have backpack-style straps to keep you mobile and easily take off between shots.
Consider A Push Cart
Nothing makes walking the golf course easier and allows you to enjoy the time outdoors more than a golf push cart. Using a push cart reduces fatigue from carrying your bag, picking it up and putting it down between shots, and gives you more storage options. A cart can also reduce noise and distractions such as clubs clanking together as you walk. By saving energy and limiting distractions, you can enjoy the nature of the golf course and enjoy it longer without wearing down.
Comfortable Golf Shoes
To truly enjoy a walk around the course, you have to keep your feet happy. The right pair of golf shoes is essential. In addition to the right grip for the golf swing, you will want plenty of cushioning, stability, and moisture protection as you walk over all types of golf course terrain. With the latest technologies like adidas’s Boost Foam, Puma’s Ignite Foam and NIKE’s React cushioning, golf shoe comfort is better than ever.
Many spikeless golf shoes feature an athletic, comfortable style. For a shoe you can wear to and from the golf course without changing in between, try a spikeless model. If traction is your top priority, spiked golf shoes offer grip and stability with the same comfort technologies and a variety of looks to fit every golfers’ style.
Common Missteps To Avoid
While on the course, it is important to make sure that you stay looking sharp, especially if you are wearing new gear or leading the round. More-often than not, you will find yourself trying to retrieve a ball, or hit from where it lands. Our advice in avoiding the common missteps while walking the golf course are:
- Low lying areas after a heavy rain will quickly cause players trouble. Shoes can get stuck in the mud, or it can make walking difficult.
- Consider a Telescopic Ball Retriever for reaching into water features, or out of an easy reach.
- Keep an extra pair of shoes in the car. You never know when you may need a back-up pair.
- Watch your step near water features or in low-lying areas.
- Follow the cart path and avoid jumping over drainage areas on the fairway.
- Beware of geese in the spring.
Always Be Prepared
Golfers know as well as anyone how quickly the weather can change. Don’t be caught with your guard down when you are walking the golf course. Make sure to have extra layers available with golf outerwear for when the temperature changes. If there is a chance of rain during your round, waterproof rain gear can keep you dry and comfortable while allowing you to stay on the course safely.
For your next round, try walking the golf course. Sometimes it feels better to get out, stretch your legs, and leave the golf cart back at the clubhouse. Ditch the cart fee!
Before your next outing, make sure that you are prepared before you make your way to the tee. TGW has all the gear you need to make your next loop more fun. Take advantage of the fresh air and green grass while connecting with your favorite game.
I’ve been a Walker for over 20 years. A good thing to have for your push cart is a sun blocking umbrella.
And carry a sand jar for filling divots.
I always prefer walking, if possible but refuse to carry the extra weight of a sand jar for filling divots. Does that make me a bad person?