What you need to enjoy golf in the fall

Not to be a buzz killer, but on Thursday, September 22, at precisely 9:07 p.m. Eastern time, summer will be over in the United States and autumn will begin. I still have tomatoes ripening in my garden, but the days here in New England are noticeably shorter now and the evenings are getting cooler. I’m looking forward to seeing the leaves turn red, yellow and orange, but I dread the rake blisters that will ensue piling them up in the backyard.

As much as I look forward to the first rounds of golf every spring, fall is my favorite time of year to play. After nearly a full season of playing, my game is as sharp as it’s going to get and walking the course on a crisp 60-degree day beats battling the heat and humidity. Still, autumn go usually means playing in softer conditions, dealing with mud and morning dew, along with cooler temperatures and occasionally, fog. So, here are a few things I make sure to do before I head to the course in October and November.

Replace your spikes

Champ Scorpion Stinger golf cleats. (Champ Sports)

Pros on the PGA Tour and LPGA change the spikes in their shoes every few weeks, but weekend players almost never do it. In the fall, when the turf is soft and damp, you need extra traction, so check which type of cleats your shoes can use and make sure the spikes are in good shape. If they aren’t, Softspike’s Scorpion Stinger is a good choice and costs $17.99 per pack. In a few minutes, you’ll have new-shoe traction.

Bring a windproof top

Peter Millar Hyperlight Merge Hybrid Jacket. (Peter Millar)

Oftentimes on a chilly morning, the air temperature is not too bad, but what makes you feel cold is the wind, so wearing a windproof or wind resistant top can keep you surprisingly comfortable. The Peter Millar Hyperlight Merge Hybrid jacket ($198) blocks the breeze and provides some insulation, but its four-way stretch material will not restrict your swing.

Wear waterproof shoes

Puma Ignite Articulate golf shoes (Puma)

Water does not evaporate as quickly off the ground in cool weather as it does on hot days, so playing golf in the fall means wearing waterproof shoes. The Puma Ignite Articulate ($180) provides plenty of cushioning while also moving with your foot, and it has a one-year waterproof warranty.

Remember a towel

Ghost golf towel (Ghost Golf)

You should really have a…