It can get very chilly on the golf course during the winter, and if you don’t wear suitable clothing not only will you fail to enjoy your round, but your game will suffer. The same applies to any outdoor activities in the colder months, but there’s so much to enjoy about the winter that you’d miss out on a great many fantastic experiences if you just stayed the whole time indoors. To continue enjoying outside activities, you need to be prepared for whatever the weather could throw at you.
Winter golfing
Rousing yourself from a warm, comfy bed to head out on a dark winter’s morning for an early start at the golf course can be a bit of a challenge, but once you’re out and about, winter golf can be a great deal of fun. You won’t have problems with overheating and getting sunburnt for one thing, and it’s often quieter on the course outside of summer. Wearing the right clothing is essential, and if you want to be able to move freely, you’ll need thin layers with no bulky materials that could affect your swing. Although you’ll be walking and playing as you go round, you’ll also be stood still waiting for the other players at times, so it’s easy to get chilled during these lulls in activity.
Golf gear comes in so many stylish ranges now, and some brands of clothing are considered highly fashionable both on and off the course. Buy the best quality breathable waterproofs you can, and make sure they’re windproof as well. Look for waterproof rather than water resistant materials, and make sure you get breathable fabrics that won’t make you sweat if you do get hot.
Winter walks
One of the most enjoyable fall and winter activities is going for a walk as the leaves change color and the winter sun shines brightly overhead. It’s a great activity for families, getting everyone out of the house and doing something active. If you have a dog, you’ll have to get yourself out for walks, and you should take steps to ensure you enjoy your excursions no matter what the weather. Kids love playing in puddles or kicking through leaves and snow drifts, but they won’t enjoy getting chilled and wet, so waterproof clothing is essential, as well as hats and gloves to keep extremities warm. If they’re going to be having snowball fights or building snowmen, make sure their gloves won’t get wet and soggy, or take spare pairs in case they do.
Good quality footwear is vital, as nothing spoils a walk more quickly than sore or frozen feet. Waterproof walking boots will keep your feet warm and dry, and make sure when you buy them that you have room for some winter socks too. You’ll also find it easier to walk on slippery paths with the correct footwear, and you’ll be less likely to get sore feet or blisters.
Winter sports
Some winter activities are all about snow and ice, and if you’ve never been skiing or ice skating, it’s well worth giving it a try. Floating across snow or ice is a feeling like no other, and with so many spectacular snow resorts across the North American continent, there’s plenty of opportunities to have a go. Specialist snow clothing is essential if you want to enjoy your time on the slopes, but like most sportswear these days, there are many brands and styles to choose from, and some are considered the height of fashion. If you’re new to snow sports and you don’t want to invest in your own equipment at this stage, then resorts will have hire facilities for boots and skis or snowboards. It makes sense to see how well you like your new sport before spending money on your own equipment, but do be very careful when hiring that you get the best possible fit. Boots that rub or clasps that pinch can make your feet feel very painful and even rub them quite severely, and that will put you off the idea big time.
Winter socializing
It’s not all about vigorous sporting activities; there are all sorts of gentler activities you can enjoy over winter. Family or friend get-togethers needn’t stop just because the barbecue has been packed away. You can still use your outdoor kitchen or pizza oven to cater for a winter party, lighting up the outside space and having a chiminea or outdoor brazier if the night’s bright and dry. If it’s not so nice, then a warm and welcoming indoor party will raise everyone’s spirits. It’s also nice to meet for coffee and take a stroll along the seafront, or get together with friends for a special meal out. Of course, you want to stay warm and look smart, so have a look at menswear fall and winter ranges for ideas on the smartest looks for the season. You can find more info on the best types of seasonal clothes to wear and how to look good in the winter at specialist websites, or visit stores in your local area for ranges that suit your environment.
One of the nicest ways to spend the winter is cuddled up in front of the fire, but unless you make an effort to get outside and do something active, being indoors will make you feel stuffy and fed up. It’s only if you’ve been out in the cold and got your blood pumping that you can truly appreciate the pleasures of a warm home and relaxing in front of the TV. An evening spent watching a good movie, eating pizza, and snuggling with your family after an afternoon’s walk in the woods or playing at the beach can be a delight; however, if you’ve been indoors all day it won’t feel very special at all! Get the best of both worlds by spending time staying active during the day, and enjoying the comforts of home and hearth in the evenings.
