The Ins and Outs of Buying Golf Clubs
So you have decided that maybe it’s time to invest in a set of golf clubs. The first thing you need to figure out is how committed you are to playing golf. This will determine whether you want to buy new or used clubs, or if you would rather just rent clubs when you need them.
If you are only going to play once a year then rent clubs from the golf course. By renting you’ll be playing with newer clubs than the ones you bought on a whim and have been sitting in your garage taking up space!
What are you waiting for?
Keep in mind, you don’t have to buy clubs before your first golf lesson. If you are taking lessons, you are just testing out whether you like the game or not, so don’t put the cart before the horse and go out and spend a bunch of money on clubs. Let your instructor know that you don’t have clubs and they will provide some for you to use.
Once you have taken some lessons, decide if you like the game enough to spend a few hundred dollars on clubs, and then invest.
Used Clubs vs. New Clubs
Hey I am all about a deal, and if a good set of used clubs comes your way, I say go for it – but make sure they are the right clubs for you. They MUST be women’s clubs and if you can, have your instructor or golf club pro check them out before you buy. I’ve seen way too many women start out playing with hand me down men’s clubs.
I will say it again, please, please, please play with women’s clubs! The technology in golf clubs is based on the concept of swing speed, club weight and shaft flex – all of which relate to strength. Men’s clubs are too heavy and stiff for women to hit easily or effectively.
How Old is Too Old?
Technological advances in golf clubs are enormous and any set of clubs over 5 years old will not be as easy to hit as the newer ones, so while that “hardly been used” bargain set of clubs may be tempting, you might be better to walk away.
How Much Should I Invest in New Clubs?
In my opinion, if you take the time for lessons and want to use golf as a business tool, then invest in new clubs. But hold on there before you jump out and buy the shiniest, most technologically advanced set from the sales person at the golf store. If you are new to the game, the idea is to underspend on your first set.
All you need to start are easy-to-hit beginner clubs which should cost around $400. Frankly, at this stage you aren’t good enough to tell the difference between brands and walking into a golf superstore leaves you open to the whims of the sales staff.
Do I need a Full Set?
The rules of golf allow you to carry 14 clubs in your bag. Personally, I think all you need to start out with are 7 clubs: aa driver, a 5 wood, a 5 hybrid, a 7 and 9 iron, a sand wedge and a putter. This will give you all the tools you need while keeping your budget under control.
While good equipment will improve your golf experience, don’t over-invest as a beginner. The golf industry is a multi-million dollar business with every gimmick going. Don’t get sucked in. Invest in golf lessons as opposed to buying an expensive set of clubs.
Have more questions about purchasing clubs? Contact me and I will be happy to help!