How does the wind affect the distance of a golf shot?

A general rule is to add 1% for every 1mph (1.6km/h) of headwind and deduct 0.5% for every 1mph (1.6km/h) playing downwind.

More about playing golf shots in windy conditions

Examples of how to calculate distances:

  • A 100 yard shot into a 5mph wind equals a 'normal' 105 yard shot
  • A 100 yard shot into a 10mph wind equals a 'normal' 110 yard shot.
  • A 100 yard shot with a 5mph tailwind equals a 'normal' 98 yard shot.
  • A 100 yard shot with a 10mph tailwind equals a 'normal' 95 yard shot.

Another factor which affects the distance playing in the wind is the shape of the shot (high, low, slice or draw).

Crosswinds generally don’t affect distance too much. They do however make it even more difficult to aim properly.