Keep Cool on the Course
For much of the United States, this summer started with a brutal heat wave. With many courses playing through shaded woods, disc golf is the perfect outdoor activity for a hot day, but only if you take precautions to stay safe and comfortable. Here’s our suggestions on how to keep it cool on the course.
Beat the Heat
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Hydrate Before You Play: Start hydrating before your round begins, even the night before if you know you’ll be playing the next day.
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Bring Plenty to Drink: Carry more water than you think you’ll need. Invest in a good quality water bottle like our INNsulated Burst Logo Canteen to keep your water cool throughout the round. In addition to drinking plenty of water, electrolytes are essential to staying hydrated. Eat a salty snack or have a sports drink.
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Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that wicks away sweat and allows for airflow. Light-colored clothing can help reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cooler.
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Use Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen before your round and reapply as needed, especially if you sweat a lot. Wipe your hands on the ground or use your chalk bag before touching your discs with sunblock-covered hands! Wearing a hat, sunglasses, and even a light long-sleeved shirt can provide additional protection from the sun.
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Play Early or Late: Try to get out during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Avoid playing during the hottest hours around midday if possible.
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Use a Chalk Bag: Sweaty hands affect your grip and control. Use an Innova Sport Sack or chalk bag to dry off before each throw.
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Use Cooling Towels or Misting Fans: Carry a cooling towel or a small misting fan to help cool down during breaks or while waiting on the tee pad.
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Adjust Your Pace: Slow down and take your time between shots to conserve energy and prevent overheating. Rushing can lead to increased fatigue and dehydration. Take breaks in the shade to rest and rehydrate
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Play Shade Golf: Sometimes there’s a shady side and a sunny side to the Fairway – play to the cool side to help shoot a hot round.
Bonus Suggestion:
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Disc Diving: If it’s just too darn hot to play, but you’re still itching to get onto the course, grab your swim trunks and go diving for discs! It’s a swim that comes with prizes. Call the players who put their number on lost discs – the ones with no number are yours! Make sure you know the rules of your local course and only go in if you’re sure you have permission and it’s safe to do so.
