Golf balls in the rain – how damp and wet conditions affect the game
Sep 22, 2025
Playing golf in the rain or on a wet course is a challenge for all players. To understand how to optimize your game, you need to know how the golf ball is affected by water and moisture. Here, we review the most important technical factors regarding golf balls in the rain – knowledge that will help you make better decisions on the course.
1. Ball Flight and Air Resistance
When the ball flies in the rain, it not only encounters air resistance but also small water droplets. This creates extra resistance and can slow down the ball's speed. The result is often a shorter "carry" distance. Although the difference is small on each shot, it can have a big impact over an entire round.
2. Spin and Friction on the Clubface
One of the biggest differences in the rain is reduced friction between the clubface and the ball. Water acts as a layer that prevents the club from "gripping" the ball fully. The effect is:
- Less backspin on approach shots and chips
- More difficult to control ball flight
- Straighter shots
3. Ball Behavior on Landing
On a wet fairway or green, the ball gets significantly less roll. Where it would normally roll several meters, it often stops almost immediately. In some cases, it can even "plug," meaning it sinks into the soft ground. For golfers, this means you have to account for shorter shots overall.
4. Putting
When the greens get wet, putting changes in several ways. A wet surface makes the ball roll slower, which means putts must be hit with more force to reach the hole. At the same time, the effect of the slope decreases as moisture slows the ball's lateral movement. Important to remember:
- Water can disturb roll quality
- Often results in shorter and less even putts
- It is important to keep the ball as dry and clean as possible
5. When Dimples Fill with Water
The golf ball's dimple pattern is designed to optimize lift and reduce air resistance. When the ball gets wet, some dimples temporarily fill with water, which can change the airflow around the ball. The result is:
- Shorter total distance
- Slightly more unpredictable ball flight
- Less effective aerodynamics
6. Practical Advice for Golf Balls in the Rain
To maximize ball performance in wet conditions, we recommend:
- Thoroughly dry the ball with a golf towel made of microfiber before each shot
- Change balls more often to minimize water and dirt in the dimples
- Consider ball choice – some golf balls with a softer core, such as Hitpin Pro 59 Soft, may perform better in wet conditions
Conclusion
Rain affects the golf ball in several ways: less spin, less distance, and altered control. By understanding these technical effects, you as a golfer can make better choices on the course – both in terms of strategy and ball selection.
