Golf is one of the few sports played in virtually all weather conditions. Rain, wind, heat, cold — the game goes on. As a caddy, your preparation for weather conditions directly impacts your player’s comfort and performance. A caddy who keeps the grips dry in the rain, who notes the wind direction on each hole, and who knows where the water coolers are on a hot day is adding real value every round.

Rain

Wet conditions are the most demanding weather test for a caddy. The player needs dry grips on every shot — a wet grip causes the club to slip through impact, leading to wayward shots. Your job is to keep the towel dry, keep the grips covered or wiped between shots, and keep the bag covered with the rain hood. Keep a small dry towel inside a waterproof pocket for grips specifically — it’s the most important item in wet weather.

Wind

Wind changes everything about club selection and shot shape. As a caddy, you should be checking wind direction on every hole — throw a little grass in the air, feel it on your face, look at the flag movement. When a player asks for yardage, include wind information automatically: “162 to the pin, playing about a club into the wind, slight right-to-left.” Be specific about direction and estimate the effect in club terms (one club = approximately 10-15 yards).

Heat

In hot conditions, hydration is a safety issue as much as a performance issue. Know where every water station is on the course before the round starts. Remind players to drink water between holes if they’re not doing so naturally. On extremely hot days, offer to carry extra water in the bag if the player has it. Heat affects performance — a player who is dehydrated will lose focus and energy in the back nine.

Lightning — The Non-Negotiable

Lightning is the only weather condition that stops play entirely and immediately. Every golf course has a lightning protocol, usually signaled by a horn or siren. One long horn = stop play, seek shelter immediately. Do not wait for the horn if you see lightning strike nearby — common sense and self-preservation apply.

Know before the round where the nearest shelter is on every part of the course. Do not shelter under a tree — this is a dangerous mistake many people make. Get inside a building, under a covered shelter on the course, or inside a cart barn.