Par Perspective: Why Do Golfers Smoke Cigars on the Course?

If you’ve ever teed it up with a group and caught a whiff of something bold and smoky drifting across the fairway, you already know: cigars and golf go way back. But what is it about the game that pairs so perfectly with a well-lit stogie?

After a recent round through some serious swampy conditions (hello, bug city!), and a lively conversation in the cart about the “cigar culture,” I figured it was time to share the top three reasons why golfers keep lighting up:

1. Nature’s Bug Repellent (Seriously)

There’s nothing like a peaceful walk down the fairway—until you’re swatting at gnats every five seconds. During humid or marshy rounds, a slow-burning cigar can serve as a surprisingly effective (and stylish) way to keep bugs at bay. It’s not official science, but ask any seasoned golfer: the bugs tend to leave you alone when there’s smoke in the air.

2. Community, Tradition & Taste

Cigar culture is more than puffing smoke—it’s a tradition rooted in camaraderie and celebration. Whether it’s a well-earned birdie, a milestone round, or just a way to slow down and savor the day, cigars are a ceremonial part of the experience for many. And just like golf, the cigar world is rich in flavors, rituals, and shared stories. From the light and sweet to the dark and complex, each smoke is its own experience—just like every round.

3. Enhancing the Natural Experience

Golf already heightens your senses: the sound of a crisp iron shot, the feel of a putt rolling true, the sight of rolling greens under an open sky. A well-chosen cigar can enhance that rhythm. The scent, the flavor, the pace—it invites you to take your time and breathe it all in. You’re not just playing; you’re unwinding, you’re present.

Of course, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:

Two Cons to Cigar Golfing

1. Respect the Group – Not everyone wants to be caught in a cloud of your Montecristo magic. If you’re playing with non-smokers, consider riding solo in a cart or positioning yourself downwind. Good vibes (and fresh air) go a long way.

2. Don’t Smoke and Putt – We’ve all been there: lining up a crucial putt only to take a breath… and get ambushed by your own smoke cloud. Let’s just say, coughing over a five-footer rarely ends well. Pro tip: set it down or step aside before taking your stroke.

Cigars on the course aren’t for everyone, but for those who love them, they’re more than a habit—they’re part of the golf lifestyle. A ritual. A reward. A little smoke with a side of soul.

What’s your go-to golf cigar? Drop it in the comments or tag us @Road2Par—We’re always open to expanding the rotation.