Factors That Affect Distances

Golf balls fly different distances under different conditions. The most obvious condition is into the wind versus downwind. However, there are several other factors one must consider. Let’s look: 

• Altitude:  The less dense air at higher altitudes causes the golf ball to fly farther. The amount can vary depending on how high you are. There are various estimates on this, but one research project says to multiply how you are playing by .001 for every foot above sea level. So, bring your calculator! One more thing to note on less dense air: The golf ball will not slice or hook as much as it might at sea level. 
• Temperature: Warmer, more humid air is also less dense. A golf ball flies farther in 80 degrees then 40 degrees. Average two yards for every 10 degrees. 
• Uphill:  For every 10 feet uphill, hit one more club. For every 10 feet downhill, hit one less club 
• Rain: Average of 5% less distance than no rain. 
• Wind: Into the wind, add 10 yards for every 10 miles per hour. Downwind: subtract five yards for every 10 miles per hour. 
• Rough: This might be the most difficult calculation of all. Several factors affect how the ball will perform. 
• If the ball is sitting down in the rough, it will fly less and roll more. 
• If the ball is sitting up in the rough, the ball may fly higher and farther (the “flyer” lie). 
• If the grass is cut against you, the ball will carry less and fly lower. 
• If the grass is cut with you, you may get more distance.
• Decide how deeply the ball is in the grass. Use more loft when it is deep, less loft if it is sitting on top. 
• Moisture: Water between the ball and clubface reduces friction and therefore, decreases spin. The golf ball will be launched higher with lower spin. This is particularly true when using lofted clubs. This is also why we get the highest spinning golf balls from dry conditions. 
• Time of day: Generally, early morning rounds produce less distance due to cooler and drier air. As the temperature rises, the ball can travel up to one whole club more. 
• Club face contact: Contact high on the face of an iron launches the ball higher and shorter. Contact high on the face of a driver creates less spin and may travel farther. Conversely, contact low on the face of an iron creates very low light flight or perhaps none. And contact low on the face of a driver creates much higher spin and lower loft. 

These are just some of things that to consider when playing in a variety of conditions. Remember, however, that everyone is playing the same game, but this “insider” knowledge may help you gain a slight edge.