Hard Cap

The maximum limit on handicap index increases in the World Handicap System, designed to prevent rapid handicap inflation while allowing for legitimate performance declines. The hard cap works in conjunction with the soft cap to maintain handicap integrity by limiting increases to four strokes above the low handicap index achieved in the previous 365 days. This system protects competitive equity while accommodating genuine changes in playing ability due to age, injury, or other factors. Understanding hard cap mechanics helps golfers appreciate handicap system protections and maintain realistic performance expectations.