Soft Cap

The first level of handicap increase limitation in the World Handicap System, designed to prevent rapid handicap inflation while allowing for genuine improvement periods. The soft cap restricts handicap increases to 50% of the amount above the soft cap threshold when a player's handicap index rises significantly. This system balances protecting competitive equity with accommodating legitimate periods of poor play or changing circumstances. The soft cap works in conjunction with the hard cap to maintain handicap integrity while providing fair opportunities for players experiencing temporary performance declines.