How to Play Your Best Round in the Heat: Summer Golf Tips

Lake Geneva summers bring sunshine, blue skies… and some serious heat. Here's how to stay cool and keep your game sharp when the temps rise.

When summer hits its peak in Wisconsin, the fairways heat up just as much as the scorecards. At Hawk's View Golf Club, we know the challenge of playing your best round under the sun. Whether you're teeing off on the championship-level Como Crossings or walking the scenic, family-friendly Barn Hollow, staying cool, hydrated, and mentally locked in is the key to keeping your score low—and your energy high.

Let's break down a few smart, battle-tested ways to beat the heat and get the most out of every swing, step, and sip—no matter how high the temps climb.

☀️ 1. Hydrate Before, During & After

It might be the most basic advice—but it's also the one golfers ignore most often. Hydration isn't just a health thing—it's a performance tool. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, slower reaction times, and a lack of focus. None of which help your game.

Start early—chugging water in the car on the way to the course doesn't cut it. Hydrate well the day before your round, sip consistently during play, and replenish afterward. Electrolyte drinks like Gatorade or sports tablets can help you retain more of the water you're drinking.

• Hydrate the day before your round.
• We provide water stations on the course & sell electrolyte beverages in the clubhouse & on beverage carts
• Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol early in the round—save the celebratory cold one for after.

🧢 2. Dress Smart: Lightweight & Breathable

Your outfit isn't just about looking good on the first tee—it's your armor against the sun. Wearing the right gear can keep your body temperature lower, reduce sweat fatigue, and protect your skin from sun damage.

Look for technical fabrics that wick away moisture, allow airflow, and offer UV protection. Soft-brimmed hats or bucket hats offer more coverage than traditional caps, and polarized sunglasses reduce eye strain and glare off sand traps and water hazards.

🧘 3. Conserve Energy & Pace Yourself

Hot rounds can wear you down fast—and it's not just about the walking. Heat forces your body to work harder with every shot, which means mental focus becomes even more important.

Walk slower, plan your next shot in the shade, and don't feel the need to rush just because you're in a group. Play efficiently, but not frantically.

🌤️ If you're playing Barn Hollow, use a push cart or lightweight bag. On Como Crossings, take advantage of the plush, shaded seating on our carts to regroup between holes.

💡 Tee times earlier in the morning or after 4 PM offer cooler temps and fewer crowds. Sometimes, strategy starts before you even book your round.

🎯 4. Know How Heat Affects Your Equipment & Ball Flight

Hot air means less drag—and that means your ball might fly farther in the summer (by 5 to 10 yards even). Great news for distance seekers, but it can cause problems if you're not prepared to adjust your club selection.

Also, sweaty hands and soft grips can cause mis-hits, slips, and inconsistent control. Bring a towel, rotate gloves, and keep grips dry between swings.

💡 Softer greens from overnight watering? Expect a quick bite and more spin. Dry, baked-out greens in the afternoon? Plan for extra rollout and low chipping trajectories.

🧠 5. Focus on Mental Resilience

Your mindset matters more in extreme heat. Fatigue can lead to frustration, which leads to bad decisions—and bad shots.

Golfers who thrive in hot conditions don't just stay hydrated—they stay mentally cool, too. Take a deep breath before tough shots, give yourself a mental reset between holes, and treat the round like a challenge you're excited to conquer.

🏌️‍♂️ Remember: a calm, focused mind beats a rushed, overheated swing every time.

🦅 Play Smart & Stay Cool at Hawk's View We don't just prepare the course for peak play—we help you enjoy it at every step. From upgraded carts and cooler systems to shaded patio seating and cold drinks, Hawk's View is ready for summer. Here's how we make it easier to beat the heat:

✅ Coolers for Carts are available while the smooth ride and plush seats help keep you comfortable
✅ On-course beverage carts stocked with water, Gatorade, and cold beer
✅ Tail Feathers Bar & Grill patio for shaded, post-round relaxation
✅ Water stations and shaded tee boxes throughout the course

Whether you're chasing a personal best on Como Crossings or enjoying a family nine on Barn Hollow, you'll feel the difference—on and off the scorecard.

🍻 Bonus Tip: Playing in a Scramble or Golf Outing? Pace Yourself

Let's be honest: summer golf outings can get rowdy. Scrambles, charity events, and league nights often come with open coolers and an "anything goes" vibe.

While we're all for a good time, the key is pacing. Alcohol and heat are a rough combo if you're not careful.

✅ Mix in a water or sports drink between cocktails
✅ Apply sunscreen every 4–5 holes
✅ Grab some shade, and snack between nines

🎉 And when the fun wraps up? Cool off, celebrate, and recharge in the air-conditioned comfort of Tail Feathers or our private banquet space. Cold drinks. Great food. Comfortable seats. A few golf stories that may or may not be exaggerated.

✅ Remember: Golf is a marathon, not a sprint—even in a 4-man scramble.

🗓️ Ready to Book Your Next Round?

Don't let the heat slow you down—just plan smart, hydrate, and bring your A-game. Whether you're golfing with friends, celebrating an event, or just sneaking in nine holes after work, Hawk's View Golf Club is your go-to for summer golf in Lake Geneva.

👉 Book your tee time today
📞 Or call (262) 348-9900 for availability and questions