Golf Distance Altitude Calculator

Adjust your club distances for elevation changes. Ball flight distance increases about 1% per 1,000 feet above sea level.

Warmer air = more distance

How Altitude Affects Golf Shots

Thinner air at higher elevations reduces drag on the golf ball, resulting in longer carries. Each 1,000 feet of elevation adds about 1-2% to your normal distance.

Altitude Distance Adjustment Chart

Altitude Change Driver Distance 7-Iron Distance Wedge Distance Example Locations
Sea Level to 2,000 ft +3-5 yards +2-3 yards +1-2 yards Coastal to Denver
Sea Level to 5,000 ft +8-12 yards +5-7 yards +3-4 yards Coastal to Mexico City
Sea Level to 7,500 ft +12-18 yards +8-10 yards +5-6 yards Coastal to Bogotá
1,000 ft to 5,000 ft +5-7 yards +3-5 yards +2-3 yards Dallas to Denver

Key Factors Affecting Distance

Altitude Effects

  • 1-2% distance gain per 1,000 feet
  • Reduced air density = less drag
  • Higher trajectory
  • Less slice/hook movement

Temperature Effects

  • 1 yard gain per 10°F increase
  • Warmer air = less dense
  • Cold weather reduces distance
  • Affects ball compression

Humidity Effects

  • Contrary to intuition
  • Moist air is less dense
  • High humidity = more distance
  • ~1 yard per 20% humidity increase

Club Selection

  • Longer clubs gain most distance
  • Driver gains ~2x wedge
  • May need 1-2 clubs less at altitude
  • Adjust for rollout differences

Frequently Asked Questions

How much longer will my drives be at altitude?

Typical driver distance gains:

  • 5,000 ft: 8-12 yards longer
  • 7,500 ft: 12-18 yards longer
  • 1,000 ft: 2-3 yards longer
  • Depends on swing speed and ball

Do I need to change clubs at high altitude?

Club adjustment guidelines:

  • 5,000 ft: ~1 club less (7i instead of 6i)
  • 7,500 ft: ~1.5-2 clubs less
  • Short irons need less adjustment
  • Consider increased rollout

How does temperature affect distance?

Temperature impacts:

  • 10°F change = ~1 yard difference
  • Cold weather reduces distance
  • Hot weather increases distance
  • Affects ball and clubface

Why does humidity increase distance?

Humidity paradox:

  • Water vapor is lighter than air
  • Humid air is less dense
  • More humidity = less drag
  • Effect is smaller than altitude

How to adjust for tournament at different elevation?

Preparation tips:

  • Use this calculator for estimates
  • Arrive early to practice
  • Track warmup distances
  • Note temperature changes