So, you want to play golf. Maybe a friend convinced you to try, or you just like the idea of being out on a course, swinging a club and hitting a tiny ball toward a hole. But there’s one problem—you have no idea where to start with golf clubs.
Don’t worry. Everyone starts somewhere, and picking the right golf clubs isn’t as complicated as it seems. You don’t need to buy a fancy, expensive set right away. In fact, that’s probably the worst thing you could do as a beginner. Instead, let’s break it down step by step, so you can get clubs that match your skill level and budget.
Do You Really Need a Full Set?
If you’ve ever seen a golfer’s bag, you might wonder why they carry so many clubs. The truth? You don’t need all of them, especially as a beginner. A full set usually has 14 clubs, but you can start with just a few essentials:
- Driver – This is the club you use to hit the ball as far as possible off the tee.
- Iron (7-iron and 9-iron) – These are good for mid-range shots when you’re getting closer to the hole.
- Wedge (Pitching or Sand Wedge) – Helps you with short, high shots and getting out of bunkers.
- Putter – Used on the green to roll the ball into the hole.
That’s it. You don’t need 14 clubs right away, and having fewer will make it easier to learn.
Should You Buy New or Used Golf Clubs?
Here’s something most beginners don’t realize—brand-new clubs can be ridiculously expensive. And for someone just starting out, they aren’t worth it. Your swing is going to change as you improve, and you don’t need the latest high-tech gear to play well.
A smart option is to buy second-hand golf clubs online. You can find high-quality clubs for a fraction of the price, and many of them are barely used. Golfers upgrade their gear often, so there’s always a great selection of second-hand clubs in excellent condition. This is an easy way to save money and still get a solid set of clubs that will last a long time.
What to Look for When Choosing Clubs
If you’re shopping for clubs—new or used—there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Shaft Material: Steel or Graphite?
The shaft is the long part of the club that connects to the grip and clubhead. It comes in two main types:
- Steel shafts are heavier and provide more control. They’re great for people who swing fast and want accuracy.
- Graphite shafts are lighter and help you swing faster, which is good if you don’t generate a lot of power yet.
Most beginners will do well with graphite shafts, especially in their longer clubs like the driver.
2. Club Length Matters
Clubs come in different lengths, and using the wrong size can make the game harder than it needs to be. If you’re taller than average, you might need slightly longer clubs. If you’re shorter, shorter clubs will help.
The easiest way to check? Stand normally with a club in hand. If the grip reaches your waist and the clubhead rests comfortably on the ground, it’s likely a good fit.
3. Forgiveness Is Key
Beginners should look for clubs that are more “forgiving.” That means they help correct mistakes, like off-center hits.
- Cavity-back irons have a hollowed-out back, making it easier to hit the ball consistently.
- Drivers with a larger sweet spot give you more room for error on long shots.
These small details make a huge difference when you’re still figuring out your swing.
Should You Get a Fitting?
A club fitting is when a professional helps you find clubs that match your swing, height, and skill level. If you’re serious about golf, getting fitted is a great idea. However, if you’re just playing casually, it’s not a must-have right away.
A good alternative? Try out clubs at a golf store or borrow some before committing to a set. You’ll get a feel for what works best without spending extra money.
How to Take Care of Your Clubs
Once you have your clubs, keeping them in good shape will help them last longer and perform better. Here are a few simple tips:
- Clean your clubs after every round. Dirt and grass can affect how they hit the ball. A damp cloth and a small brush will do the trick.
- Store them in a dry place. If clubs stay wet for too long, they can rust. Keep them in a cool, dry area when you’re not using them.
- Check your grips. Over time, grips wear out and get slippery. If they feel smooth or hard, it might be time to replace them.
Taking care of your clubs doesn’t take much effort, but it makes a big difference in how they perform.
What’s Next?
Now that you’ve got the basics down, the best thing to do is grab some clubs and start swinging. Keep it simple—stick with a few key clubs, look for good second-hand options to save money, and choose ones that feel comfortable.
And don’t stress about finding the “perfect” set right away. Golf takes time to get the hang of, and as you improve, you’ll figure out what works best for you. The most important thing is just to get out there and have fun; you might end up loving the game more than you expected!