Cold weather doesn’t have to end your golf practice. At Southborough Golf Center, all 23 of our covered bays have infrared heaters, so you can keep working on your swing all winter long without freezing your hands. Here is how the heated driving range bays work and how to get the most out of a winter session.
How the infrared heaters work
Each bay has an infrared heater with a low and a high setting. Infrared heat warms you directly instead of trying to heat the air, so wind can’t blow it away. Even on a breezy night you feel the warmth on your hands, shoulders and back.
- Low takes the chill off a 50° fall evening.
- High keeps you warm even when it’s 10° in January.
The bays are covered and open to the range, so you still hit real golf balls at real targets and watch the ball fly. That is a big difference from an indoor simulator, and it is the reason many golfers stay sharper over the winter. Read more on Trackman at our range.
The heater specs
Here is what is overhead in every bay:
- One heater per bay, 23 in all.
- Type: high-intensity, two-stage infrared radiant heater (American-made).
- Rated output: 90,000 BTU per hour on high and 45,000 on low.
- Our setting: 70,000 BTU per hour on high and 35,000 on low.
- Fuel: propane.
When we first ran the heaters at full output, they were too hot for a single bay. So we reduced the output to 70,000 BTU on high and 35,000 on low. A bay still feels warm on a 10° night, without feeling like you’re standing next to a bonfire. Two stages means you choose the heat: low is plenty for a mild evening, and high is for the coldest nights.
What to wear for a winter range session
You don’t need arctic gear. Dress in light layers and let the heater do the rest:
- A thin base layer and a fleece or quarter zip you can swing in.
- A warm hat for the walk in. You can take it off in the bay.
- One glove for your lead hand, or none at all once the heater is on.
- Skip the bulky coat. It limits your turn and changes your swing.
Tips for practicing in winter
- Warm up slowly. Cold muscles need a few easy swings before full speed.
- Pick one goal per bucket. Winter is the best time to work on a single swing change.
- Use the Trackman numbers. Our range screens show your distance and ball flight on every shot, so you can see what is changing.
- Bring a friend. Each bay fits two to three people, so it is easy to take turns.
- Try an evening session. Evenings are a popular time to come, and a great way to unwind after work.
Hours, prices and what to bring
We are open every day. Winter hours start November 1: 9am to 8pm daily. Buckets start at $13, and every bay is the same price. There is no extra charge for the heat. Loaner clubs are available if you don’t want to carry your own, and you can order takeout from a favorite spot and eat at our picnic tables. If you are 21 or older, check out our beer and seltzer list.
Make it a group night
Heated bays are a great way to get together with friends, family or coworkers over the winter. Bays 19 to 23 fit bigger groups, and we host private events all winter. Want some friendly competition? Our Winter Trackman League starts December 15, you can play any day that suits you, and there is a cash prize pool.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a heated driving range near Southborough, MA?
Yes. Southborough Golf Center at 22 Turnpike Road has 23 covered bays with infrared heaters, open every day all winter.
Do the heaters work when it’s windy or very cold?
Infrared heat isn’t blown away by wind. On low it takes the chill off a 50° evening, and on high it keeps you warm even when it’s 10°.
Do I have to pay extra for a heated bay?
No. Every bay is the same price, and buckets start at $13.
Do I need to bring my own clubs?
No. Loaner clubs are available.
Can I bring a group?
Yes. Each bay fits two to three people, and bays 19 to 23 fit bigger groups. For a party or company outing, contact us to plan ahead.
Ready to practice all winter? Stop by 22 Turnpike Road in Southborough, or see the heated bays before you go.
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