72 Degree Rule

This time of year I am often reminded of the 72 degree rule for the distance a golf ball travels in relation to air temperature. Because cold air is more dense than warm air, a golf ball will not travel as far in cold temperatures. I teach players to use the temperature of 72 degrees as a mark for the optimal temperature for distance.

For a player that hits his drives 250 yards, it can be said that he will lose 1 yard for every degree under 72. But if it is 52 degrees, there is not a trickle down through all of the clubs. For instance, using the 52 degree example and you have a 9 iron in your hand the shot most likely will not be reduced by 20 yards like it might with your driver.

As the temperature increases over 72, the law of diminishing returns can come into effect. The ball will not necessarily travel farther in high temperatures. Especially in humid conditions the air becomes thicker and thus restricts the distance a ball travels.

For cool temperatures use these general recommendations:

Driver: -1 yard every degree under 72

6-iron: -1/2 yard for every degree under 72

PW: -1 yard for every 5 degrees under 72

Example:

Temperature 42 degrees - 240 yard drive - 160 yard 6-iron - 120 yard PW

Your ball will travel:

Driver: 210 yards

6-iron: 145 yards

PW: 114 yards

Don't be upset if you only hit a 200 yard drive when its 45 degrees and the wind is blowing in your face!