As the temperature drops and the fairways frost over, a question that divides the golfing world resurfaces—do you keep your clubs in action during the winter months, or do you shelve them until the warmth of spring returns?
It’s a debate that resonates through clubhouses and group chats every year. Two perspectives recently published in Golf Monthly perfectly sum up both sides: one from Fergus Bisset in Aberdeenshire, and the other from Jeremy Ellwood in Sussex. Fergus thrives in the winter conditions, while Jeremy prefers to swap spikes for walking boots when the weather turns.
Whichever side you fall on, one thing is certain—being properly dressed for the season can transform your experience. At Function18, we stock everything you need to make winter golf not just bearable, but genuinely enjoyable.
The Winter Golfer’s Mindset
Fergus Bisset’s love for off-season play is rooted in resilience and enthusiasm. Based in Scotland’s northeast, he’s no stranger to snow, sleet or freezing wind. But he argues that modern winters are milder than those he remembers growing up, especially with the Cairngorms shielding his region from much of the west’s rainfall.
For Fergus, golf in winter means faster rounds, quieter courses, and a strong sense of camaraderie among the brave few who venture out. He’s unbothered by frosty greens or 40mph winds—as long as the course is open, he’s ready to play. For him, winter golf is as much about the spirit of the game as the game itself.
A Time to Rest and Reset
Meanwhile, Jeremy Ellwood admits to becoming more selective about when he tees it up in winter. A wet and often waterlogged south of England has eroded his appetite for battling the elements. Though he once relished winter rounds on crisp, frozen mornings, the modern off-season experience—muddy lies, unpredictable greens, and soft, soaked fairways—has dulled the appeal.
Instead, Jeremy chooses long coastal walks over lugging his bag through marshy terrain. He acknowledges he may be drifting toward the “fair-weather golfer” category but argues that a reset during the off-season has its merits. For him, winter is now more about reflection than repetition.
Winter Golf Essentials from Function18
No matter your stance, it’s clear that the right gear makes all the difference. Whether you’re grinding through winter rounds or getting ready for the season ahead, Function18 has the technical golfwear to support every decision.
- Waterproof Golf Jackets
- Stay dry in full swing with jackets designed for performance in the wettest conditions. Featuring taped seams, breathable layers, and swing-friendly silhouettes, options from Galvin Green, FootJoy and J.Lindeberg lead the way.
- Base Layers
- A good base layer locks in warmth while letting your skin breathe. Discover thermal essentials from Under Armour, Castore and more—engineered for cold-weather comfort without bulk.
- Mid Layers
- Versatile enough for layering but stylish enough to wear solo, midlayers like gilets, fleeces and half-zips provide crucial insulation. Explore offerings from adidas, Puma, and BOSS to elevate your cold-weather game.
- Golf Trousers
- Winter golf trousers should be water-repellent, thermal and stretchable. Swap your summer chinos for functional designs from Oscar Jacobson, Galvin Green, or FootJoy that help you stay sharp and dry.
- Golf Gloves & Accessories
- Your hands take the brunt of the chill. Winter gloves are a must, as are wind-blocking snoods, beanies and rain-ready mitts. Function18’s collection covers all the bases so you can swing with confidence, not cold fingers.
Why Winter Golf Might Be Worth It
If you’ve never played a round in the chillier months, consider giving it a go. There’s something uniquely satisfying about walking a quiet, frost-covered fairway or seeing your breath cloud the air after a well-struck tee shot. The game becomes simpler, more stripped-back—about grit, shot-making, and presence of mind.
You’ll also likely enjoy:
- Less crowded courses
- Faster rounds
- Competitive winter leagues
- New appreciation for your gear
- A head start on your swing ahead of spring
Fair Weather? Fair Enough
But if, like Jeremy, you’d rather avoid soggy turf and frozen fingers, that’s okay too. Winter is an ideal time to review your wardrobe, refresh your kit, or browse the latest arrivals on Function18. Use the season to set yourself up for a strong start come spring.
Many golfers also take this time to try out indoor simulators, fine-tune their putting at home, or simply relax and re-energise. Winter might not be about scorecards—but it can still be about golf.
Whether you’re charging into the elements with Fergus or kicking back like Jeremy, the winter golf decision is a personal one. What unites both approaches is a love for the game—and that, above all, is what matters.
So, if you do decide to brave the conditions, make sure you’re properly equipped with Function18’s expertly curated winter-ready golfwear. And if not? You’ll still find plenty of inspiration, style and innovation waiting for you when the fairways thaw.
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