Last Updated on May 16, 2024 by Britt Olizarowicz
Golf changes all the time. The core of the game has been the same for hundreds of years, but the culture seems to continually mold, adapt, and change. That’s why we see some differences in millennial and boomer golfers. Some of these are funny nuances, and of course, they can’t be applied to the whole group, but it’s still entertaining to see how each generation approaches this sport.
A Bit Too Much Technology
Here’s the funny thing: You would expect the millennials to be more invested in golf technology than the boomers. Yet, this isn’t always the case.
The boomers are still enamored by the amount of technology available to them on the golf course. Between GPS, score tracking, and swing analyzers, there is just so much data and information that they went without for so many years.
Millennials use this information and tools as well, but they are a bit more selective in the technology they choose to use on the course. They’ve been exposed to this technology for so long that golf can sometimes be a welcome break!
The Fashion Differences
Boomers are holding on strong to the cotton polo. Many have at least changed their ways and gone with some polyester performance-type fabric. However, when you look at things like joggers and golf hoodies, boomers are still afraid to wear these.
Afraid of what?
Afraid of the golf staff coming out to the range and asking you to change! Here’s the funny thing, if you look close, many of the golf staff is wearing joggers and hoodies.
Learning Golf On The Internet?
Millennials are more likely to use online resources, apps, and social media to learn to play golf. They watch videos that mix entertainment and instruction, and they take those with them to the range to see if they can improve their game.
Boomers prefer more traditional methods of coaching. They enjoy one on one golf lessons, clinics and books written about the game. Boomers are learning that online instruction can be beneficial it’s just an abstract idea to finding a local professional.
Socialize- But When?
Many millennials play golf purely for the social interaction and experience. They may shoot 105 and not even keep score. The goal is to have fun with friends and make a few good swings.
Boomers play golf for social reasons as well. However, the on-course banter is typically a little different. Everyone focuses on their own game, pays closer attention to rules and format and shares a drink on the 19th hole.
Again, personalities will change this, there are some groups of boomer golfers that have 10x more fun than millennials but this is just a shift being seen in the game.
How Does The Environment Play Into This?
Millennials have been raised with this concept and idea that it’s their job to save the enviornment. Therefore they will gladly accept golf courses that focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly practices.
If you explain to a millennial that the reason the course has some bare patches or low maintenance landscaping is because of environmental conservation they can accept it.
Boomers didn’t grow up the same way. Many of these people are sitting on the boards of country clubs where a brown spec in the grass is considered a major concern. Boomers tend to prioritize course conditions and aesthetics over the enviornment.
Pace of Play
Millennials love fast golf. They have time restrictions in their lives because of their age but they also grew up with the “ready golf” concept. Boomers are still playing honors and still looking at 5 hours as a typical pace of play. Millennials want to move around the course and if they finish early, going out for an additional nine sounds like a great idea!
Country Club vs. Public Golf
Both millennials and boomers join golf courses and country club. However, millennials, even those who are successful and can afford to join a club are looking at public golf as a great alternative.
Many country clubs have a culture that is a bit restrictive and the rules and restrictions are more than millennials want to deal with. Boomers are fine with golf shoes being carried in shoe bags and women who can’t walk through the grill room.
That’s what they learned about the game. Millennials want an all-inclusive family type environment with a focus on fun and relaxation. If they can’t find it, they play public golf.
Networking
Finally we have seem some big differences in how networking is handled on the golf course. Using golf as a networking tool is still alive and well. However, millennials and boomers approach this a bit differently.
Boomers still love to get out on the course and work out those business relationships.
Millennials on the other hand don’t necessarily need to play a round of golf with a person to network through golf. They are happy to just share a common interest in the sport, use it as a way to bond and network that way.
Maybe it’s a time factor, maybe it’s a comfort with digital technology and digital relationships but the millennials are not nearly as traditional when it comes to networking on the course.
Final Thoughts
While the game of golf is something that matters to both millennials and boomers it’s interesting to see these differences in the approach. Through the years we will undoubtedly see more changes and future generations will add their own touch to this. What other differences have you seen between generations on the golf course?
