How to Play Skins in Golf
Every hole is a prize. Win it outright, take the skin.
Players2–8
Holes9 or 18
HandicapsOptional
How it works
- Agree on what a skin is worth.
- Play each hole as normal.
- Lowest score on a hole wins the skin, but only if nobody ties it.
- Tie? With carryovers, the skin rolls to the next hole. Without, it’s gone.
- Count skins at the end and settle up.
Example
Hole 1: everyone makes 4. Hole 2: Mike makes 3, everyone else 4.
Hole 1 carries over, so Mike wins 2 skins on hole 2.
Tips
- Carryovers make the late holes exciting.
- Play net so higher handicaps can win holes too.
- Some groups require par or better to win a skin.
FAQ
What happens if the last hole ties?
Those skins go unclaimed, unless your group plays a playoff or splits them.
How many people can play skins?
Any number, but 3 to 6 is the sweet spot. More players means fewer outright winners.