Understanding Playability Grades

PinWeather's playability grade rates every hour from A+ to F based on four factors: temperature comfort (30%), wind severity (30%), precipitation probability (25%), and weather code severity (15%). A score of 90+ is an A+; below 30 is an F. Here's how it all works.

The Four Factors

Every playability grade is calculated from four weather variables:

1. Temperature — Is it comfortable to be outside for 4+ hours? We factor in both raw temperature and feels-like (wind chill or heat index).
2. Wind — Sustained speed and gusts. Light wind barely affects the grade. Once you're above 15 mph sustained, it starts dropping.
3. Rain probability — A 10% chance of scattered showers is fine. An 80% chance of steady rain is an F.
4. Lightning risk — Any meaningful lightning risk within 10 miles automatically drops the grade to D or below. Safety comes first.

The Scale

• A+ to A-: Ideal conditions. Play without hesitation.
• B+ to B-: Good conditions with minor compromises — maybe a bit windy or slightly warm.
• C+ to C-: Playable but you'll notice the weather. Dress accordingly and manage expectations.
• D+ to D-: Marginal. Only play if you're committed and prepared.
• F: Don't play. Either dangerous (lightning) or miserable (heavy rain, extreme cold/heat, severe wind).

How to Use the Grades

The grades are designed for quick decision-making. If you're scanning the week ahead and see three B+ mornings and one A- afternoon, you know exactly when to book your round.

They're also useful for choosing between courses. If your home course is exposed and windy, it might grade a C+ while a sheltered course nearby grades a B. PinWeather makes that comparison easy.

Not Just a Number

Behind every grade is a full breakdown — you can always tap in to see the individual factors. The grade is the summary. The detail is there when you want it.