Hitting the links? A round of golf can last anywhere from four to five hours. Under the heat of the New Mexican sun, that can be brutal. Heat stress, exhaustion, and stroke are very real issues, even during a casual game of golf. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to severe consequences. If you insist on playing even when temps are soaring, take precautions to protect yourself from the heat. Here are some tips for staying cool while golfing in New Mexico.
1. Dress in Breathable Fabrics
Tight clothes and fabrics that trap sweat are the last things you want to wear when spending time outdoors in high heat. Keep it light and airy and let the cool air in with breathable fabrics like cotton or other moisture-wicking materials. These also keep sweat off your skin for more efficient evaporation and cooling. Furthermore, breathable materials are generally more comfortable and help maintain a consistent body temperature.
2. Choose Light Colors
When New Mexico’s average UV index falls around six, it’s essential to come to the course prepared by wearing lighter colors, especially whites. It’s true—the color of your clothing can help you stay cool! Dark colors absorb more heat, which can make you feel warmer. Conversely, wearing light colors reflects sunlight and keeps you cooler. Whites, pastels, and even light grays are excellent choices for hot days, and you can still look stylish!
3. Wear a Hat or Visor
People typically put sunscreen on their arms, legs, face, and neck but end up neglecting their scalps, thinking their hair is enough protection from the sun. Sadly, no. The scalp (and, when sunscreen is sweated away, the forehead and rest of the face) are especially vulnerable to direct exposure to the sun and desperately need additional UV protection. A hat or visor offers coverage for your scalp and forehead to reduce heat transferred to your body and lower the risk of sunburns.
Pick a hat or visor with breathable materials as well. Look for mesh panels or ventilation holes to promote air circulation. These features will prevent your head from overheating and help you focus on your swing instead of the heat!
4. Take Breaks in the Cart
Whether you play nine holes, 18, or more, golf is a long game, and the combination of heat and physical exertion means you should pace yourself. Your golf cart is a great resource for getting out of the sun and taking a breather. Periodically sit down in the shade offered by the golf cart’s roof and recover. It’s a great way to lower your body temperature, replenish fluids, and take it easy while playing the game you love.
5. Seek Shade on the Course
You won’t always be right beside your golf cart. When you’re walking to your ball and preparing for the next shot, search for shade on the course. Look for trees, shelters, or other structures that provide natural shade while you wait. Staying in the shade, even for just a few minutes, can significantly lower your body temperature and reduce your risk of overheating.
6. Stay Hydrated
Are you drinking enough water? Dehydration can sneak up on you. Before you know it, you’ve lost a lot of water through perspiration, making you lightheaded, dizzy, and weak.
While it’s tempting to quench your thirst with cold and sugary or alcoholic beverages, water is always your best bet for staying properly hydrated and cooled off. Remember to pack enough water before heading out. Keep a large bottle in your golf bag and take regular sips, even if you’re not feeling particularly thirsty. Make a point of drinking water before a round. It will help regulate your body temperature and keep you energized and focused throughout the game.
If you run out of water on the course, take advantage of the beverage cart services. These carts offer various drinks and snacks to keep you refreshed. Look for bottled water or sports drinks to replenish electrolytes lost through sweating.
It must be stressed that you should only choose beverages that hydrate rather than dehydrate. That means avoiding alcohol and caffeinated drinks. Instead, pick decaffeinated and low- or no-sugar iced teas, lemonades, or electrolyte-enhanced drinks. These choices will help maintain your hydration levels and keep you feeling cool.
7. Bring Snacks To Stay Energized
You can also replenish electrolytes through what you eat, and sustaining your energy levels is important to feeling your best on the golf course. Keep your energy up by bringing snacks with you. Nuts, fruits, and granola bars are excellent, filling, and nutritious choices. They’re lightweight, easy to eat quickly, and will help you sustain your energy without causing an aching stomach. Fresh fruits are also a good source of hydration as well.
8. Play Golf Early in the Morning
Obviously, the sun gets hotter the higher it is in the sky, so be an early bird and tee off in the early morning hours. Morning tee times offer cooler temperatures and a more comfortable playing environment. The sun is less intense, reducing the risk of overheating, getting sunburned, and suffering from heat stress, exhaustion, or stroke.
Early morning rounds also provide a quieter and less crowded course. Such a peaceful atmosphere can enhance your concentration and enjoyment of the game, as well as keep you cool. Plus, starting the morning with a round of golf sets a positive tone for the rest of your day’s activities, keeping stress levels down and a positive attitude up!
9. Pack Ice Packs
It’s always wise to keep a first aid kit on hand for those little emergencies. To help prevent heat-related health issues, be sure to keep a small cooler filled with extra water and reusable ice packs stowed away in the golf cart or in your bag. Ice won’t just keep your beverages cold; it’s handy for treating heat stroke as well. If someone seems to be suffering from the effects of heat exhaustion, place several ice packs at their pulse points to cool them down.
10. Cool Off Afterward
Once your round is complete, the last of our tips for staying cool while golfing in New Mexico is to take advantage of the golf course’s amenities. For example, the Turtleback golf course at Sierra Del Rio offers a fantastic bar and restaurant. After the game, enjoy a fine meal indoors in lovely, air-conditioned comfort. As ever, don’t forget to hydrate with plenty of water—but a cool and tasty breakfast drink isn’t a bad idea either!
Turtleback Mountain Resort is home to stunning views and the incredible Sierra Del Rio Golf Course. If you want the best golfing experience New Mexico has to offer, make the trip to Elephant Butte in New Mexico today! We can’t wait to showcase everything this wonderful paradise has to offer our guests.
