How to Choose Golf Clubs
One of the biggest dilemmas golfers face is choosing golf clubs that match their game and playing style.
Determining factors such as swing speed, shaft flex, and club head size must be determined before you can create the combination of perfect golf clubs to take your game to the next level.
But where should you start when faced with so many different brands and models?
In this article, we’ll answer your most burning questions on choosing the right golf clubs that fit your style of play.
How do you know what golf clubs are right for you?
When looking at any buying guide on how to choose golf clubs, you should match your handicap level to the right club for your game.
For example, single-digit handicappers should carry players’ irons onto the course like on the PGA Tour, while high handicappers are best served by playing game improvement irons.
How do I choose a set of golf clubs for beginners?
When choosing the right golf clubs for beginners, our best advice is to start small. Golfers at this handicap level don’t need 15 clubs in their golf bag.
They should find golf clubs that are easy to hit. The perfect starter set should include a hybrid, a 7-iron, a 9-iron, a wedge, and a putter.
By putting more clubs than those five essential ones in the bag, you risk overwhelming the golfer as they start their journey.
By keeping it minimal, they can focus on learning the swing fundamentals with clubs that will boost launch and extend distance.
How should my golf clubs fit my height?
Yes, golf clubs should fit your height. While most standard sets will work for players with heights under six feet, for taller golfers, the right golf clubs may need extended shaft lengths.
For women, finding clubs that match their height is vital to maximizing distance and maintaining accuracy on the course.
How do I know what golf club to use for beginners?
For beginners, playing with super game-improvement irons can provide the easiest way to enjoy the game immediately. These irons offer a more flexible shaft that matches the golfer’s skill level.
Also, buying woods and hybrids with higher loft can create more launch and produce more distance, which is something beginners need when starting out.
What factors should I consider when selecting golf club shafts?
Faster swing speeds need firmer shafts that keep the club head square through impact. Too often, golfers misjudge their swinging speed, which causes timing issues when hitting the ball.
When these golfers choose golf clubs, they must match their flex rating to their club speed and skill level, or they’ll suffer mightily on the course.
For slower swing speeds, buying golf clubs with a softer shaft and larger club head can help create lag on the back swing, resulting in improved power through the golf ball.
How do I determine the right combination of golf clubs for my bag?
Another big question that amateurs face is finding the right combination of woods, hybrids, and irons for their golf bags.
If you are a high handicapper, playing with fewer irons and more hybrids and fairway woods can help you increase distance and accuracy.
Since those clubs are easier to hit than long irons, you should find more success when choosing golf clubs.
Lower handicap players find clubs that match their ability. Playing with a utility iron or carrying wedges that can handle firm turf is not uncommon for them.
Since their game is about saving 3 to 5 per round, they fill their golf bag with the right golf clubs that perform the specialized tasks they need on the links.
What are the benefits of getting a professional golf club fitting?
The most significant benefit of booking a professional club fitting is that an experienced golfer will evaluate your swing to help you find the right clubs for your game.
They’ll look at factors like launch angle, carry distance, and dispersion as you hit golf balls.
Choosing golf clubs can also be daunting, but a professional fitter can streamline the process, especially if you are a high-handicap golfer who doesn’t know where to start.
A fitting can also be advantageous when finding the right wedge in your golf bag, as finding the right sand wedge can help save you strokes around the green.
How do I know when to upgrade my golf club set?
One of the biggest reasons you should upgrade your golf clubs is an increase or decrease in swing speed or handicap. Buying golf clubs with a firmer shaft rating can help improve accuracy and boost distance.
Another reason to upgrade your golf clubs, such as your fairway woods, is to take advantage of the newest innovations.
Golf club manufacturers are increasing launch and dramatically improving forgiveness with each new club release. By playing golf with older clubs, you risk hindering the growth of your skill level.
What are the key differences between men’s and women’s golf clubs?
The most significant differences between men’s and women’s golf clubs are in the strength of the shaft and overall club length.
Since men are faster swingers, they’ll play with a firmer shaft flex and longer clubs. For their irons, they typically play steel shafts, while women would be better served to play graphite shafts in all of their clubs to boost swing speed.
Women play with shorter golf clubs because their average height is lower than a man’s.