- 1 -

Choosing the Right

Golf Clubs

- 2 -

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...............................................2

INTRODUCTION.......................................................4WHAT DO YOU NEED? .................................................................... 4

1 ABILITY LEVEL MATTERS......................................6THE LOW HANDICAP GOLFER .......................................................... 6

MID HANDICAP GOLFERS ............................................................... 7

THE HIGH HANDICAP GOLFER ......................................................... 8

SHOULD BEGINNING PLAYERS BUY CLUBS?...................................... 9

2 CLUB TYPE..........................................................11GOLF CLUB SHAFT SELECTION...................................................... 11

Graphite Shafts ........................................................................ 11

Steel Shafts ............................................................................. 12

Shaft Flex ................................................................................ 13

THE CLUB HEAD .......................................................................... 14

Woods..................................................................................... 14

Wood Materials......................................................................... 15

Iron Types ............................................................................... 16

3 TIPS FOR CLUB SELECTION: THINK PUTTERS,

IRONS AND MORE .................................................18BUYING CLUB SETS ..................................................................... 18

THE PUTTER................................................................................ 19

Putter Types............................................................................. 20

IRONS........................................................................................ 22

WEDGES..................................................................................... 22

- 3 -

DRIVER AND FAIRWAY WOOD....................................................... 24

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOFT......................................................... 25

CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEIGHT........................................................ 25

THE RIGHT LENGTH ..................................................................... 26

CHOOSING THE BEST FAIRWAY WOODS ........................................ 27

4 CLUB SHOPPING FOR CHILDREN AND WOMEN ...29WOMEN'S CLUB BUYING TIPS ....................................................... 29

Woods..................................................................................... 30

Irons ....................................................................................... 30

CHILDREN'S CLUBS ..................................................................... 30

5 MORE GOLF EQUIPMENT? ...................................33THE GOLF BAG ............................................................................ 33

GOLF BALLS................................................................................ 34

OTHER GOLF EQUIPMENT ............................................................. 35

Golf Gloves .............................................................................. 35

Golf Shoes ............................................................................... 35

Golf Clothing ............................................................................ 36

6 CUSTOMIZATION AND DESIGNER BRANDS? YES

OR NO?..................................................................37NAME BRAND OR NO NAME AT ALL?............................................... 37

CUSTOM FIT GOLF CLUBS............................................................. 39

The Advantages of Custom Fit Clubs............................................ 40

7 MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR GOLF CLUB BUYERS...42SAVING MONEY ON CUSTOM FIT CLUBS......................................... 44

- 4 -

INTRODUCTION

Buying golf clubs does not seem like a difficult process until you walk into

a golf equipment store or browse online for them. Then it hits you: how in

the world will you select the right type of golf clubs? What do you need?

Does brand matter? Are any of these funny customized products a good

option?

It is overwhelming to choose golf clubs because there are so many options

on the market for you to select. A multitude of options exists including

various lines or series from each manufacturer. This guide will help you to

select the best golf clubs for your particular needs.

WHAT DO YOU NEED?

While there are hundreds of clubs on the market, your golf bag needs only

to have a few clubs in it. The Official Rules of Golf state that you cannot

have more than 14 clubs in your bag during any round of golf. That

includes your putter too. As you can see, there is no need to fill up the

trunk of your car with a large amount of clubs when you can only take 14

on the course.

Still, this does mean that you have to make each club count. Select clubs

that are right for your body and style of play. In addition, be sure that

your swing is the primary tool in determining the right club.

A good golf club can and will help improve your game if you have been

using one that is not right for your body or your needs. In addition, keep

- 5 -

in mind the importance of selecting a golf club that is within your budget.

You do not have to spend a lot of money to get a great club.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to purchase

the right golf clubs for you, not for any specific manufacturer.

- 6 -

1

ABILITY LEVEL MATTERS

One thing many people do not realize is that their ability level at the game

of golf actually makes quite a difference in the type of club they select and

use. This is not always evident when you visit a golf store, either. When

browsing online, it is rare to see clubs marked as either beginner or

advanced clubs. Rather, they are marked by their makeup and brand

name. Still, it is an important factor when selecting golf clubs to purchase.

This process can be broken down by handicap. In the game of golf, a

handicap is the term used to describe the player’s ability against par. This

can be broken down into low handicap, mid handicap and high handicap

golfers. Your handicap is usually related to a par 72 regulation golf course.

When selecting the right club for you, it may take some trial and error

since you may not initially know what type of handicap you have. One of

the best ways to overcome this problem is to head out onto the golf

course with rented clubs. Select the clubs based on what you would

believe is your score, keeping note of what they feel like. Giving yourself

this type of trial run can help you to learn which golf clubs are the right

ones for your particular need.

THE LOW HANDICAP GOLFER

For those who consider themselves a low handicap golfer, congratulations.

A low handicap means that you are definitely a top player and you likely

know what you like in a golf club. Even still, you may be able to become a

- 7 -

better player by selecting golf clubs that are better suited to your top-

notch abilities.

A low handicap golfer is one that has a single digit handicap. This usually

means that the golfer has a score less than ten strokes over par. In other

words, on a regulation 72 par golf course, you have an 82 or less for a

score.

If this is the type of golf result that you have, the following are important

tips for selecting the right golf clubs for you.

Woods

For woods, you really want to carry a driver. You also want to use

at least one fairway wood. While you can select based on style and

comfort, you will most likely do well with a 3 wood.

Irons

A low handicap golfer will want to have lower irons on the golf

course. Because of your improved skill, you likely have more

control over your clubs. A 3 or 4 iron is difficult to hit. However, if

you are able to control the iron, you will see a solid benefit from

using it.

Wedges

Next, consider the wedges in your bag. You should have at least

three of them. For a low handicap golfer, focus on the pitching

wedge and sand wedge. You also want either a lob wedge or an

approach wedge. Each wedge is rated by its degree. For these

three, you want to have no more than a four-degree difference in

each of the wedges.

MID HANDICAP GOLFERS

- 8 -

For those who are "in the middle" range of golf scoring, you likely are a

mid handicap golfer. This is often called the "bogey golf" player because

your score ends up about one over par at each hole (on average.) Overall,

your golf score is generally 11 to 20-handicap range.

For those with a mid handicap golf ability, it is important to select clubs

that can help you play at your best and even help you to improve your

game.

Here is what to look for:

Woods

For woods, you need a driver, a 3 wood and a 5 wood in your bag.

You may also want to have a 7 wood, or a 9 wood there. Longer

irons are more difficult to hit. As a mid range player, it is better to

improve the amount of control you have over the club and, at the

same time, improve the consistency. The fairway woods listed here

will give you improved control and a level hit each time. This can

also help you to improve your golf swing over time.

Irons

For the mid handicap golfer, there is not too much to look for

specifically in irons. Rather, you want to be sure you have a

pitching wedge and iron numbers 3 through 9 in your bag.

Wedges

The wedge clubs for a mid handicap golfer should include the

pitching wedge, a sand wedge and you can select between an

approach wedge and a lob wedge.

THE HIGH HANDICAP GOLFER

- 9 -

Those who are new to the game or those who have yet to learn and hone

their game skills will be ranged a high handicap golfer. As you can

imagine, someone who is a high handicap player is one that needs more

putts before actually getting the golf ball to sink into the hole. Still, this is

not a problem because some of the better quality golf clubs for beginners

can actually give you the ability to improve your game if you use them

properly.

A high handicap golfer is one that usually gets about 100 or over on

average. If this is the case, you want to focus on just two types of clubs

when buying them.

Woods

Some beginners really will not benefit from using a driver. Rather, it

may be best to use a 3 wood as the club you use off the tee. Then,

use the 7 wood and 9 woods to your bag. The biggest benefit here

is more control. These woods are far easier to hit for the newer

player.

Wedges

Select the three wedges: a pitching wedge, a sand wedge and

either the lob wedge or the approach wedge. As you can see, these

are going to last for a while in your bag as you improve.

SHOULD BEGINNING PLAYERS BUY CLUBS?

When you are a new golfer, you may be tempted to purchase golf clubs

even before you have ever stepped foot into the fairways of a golf course.

This is not always a good thing. You may be a natural. You may end up

hating the game. In either case, you want to have clubs that match your

style of play and skill. Therefore, it may be best to rent clubs a few times

- 10 -

before you actually invest several hundred dollars into the clubs in your

bag.

Remember, most golf clubs will last for several years, of consistent play.

Most last much longer because there is simply never enough time to be on

the green, as we would like to. Therefore, when it comes to purchasing

golf clubs, as a beginner or someone without developed golf clubs, it is

best to try out the game a few times before investing. When you do get

ready to buy, use the tips above to help you through the process.

- 11 -

2

CLUB TYPE

Just as you need to select clubs based on how well they perform, based

on how well you perform, it is also important to consider the makeup of

those clubs. The type of club you use will be dependent on various things,

though, more so than just your skill level.

For most people, the type of club will also depend on your budget. Keep

this key point in mind. You do not need to purchase the highest priced

product on the market to get a quality club you can rely on. In addition,

you do not have to purchase a club that is at the low end. In fact, you

should not do so. That will affect your performance on the course.

Instead, go for a middle of the road to higher level.

The shaft and the club head are the most important aspects of the club

type selection. The club head is the bottom portion of the golf club, where

the ball will meet the club. The shaft is the thin portion running up, into

your hands.

GOLF CLUB SHAFT SELECTION

First, let us talk about the shaft and its makeup. Most of today's shafts are

available in one of two materials, graphite or steel. Both has its

advantages and disadvantages.

GRAPHITE SHAFTS

- 12 -

Graphite shafts are the way to go for most players, if you have the budget

for them. Graphite is lighter than steel. This feature can also help you to

get a more customized golf club since graphite can be made in many more

variations than traditional steel shafts.

There are several things to consider about these clubs:

Graphite is less durable than steel is. This may cause you to

consider steel instead since it offers a longer wear period. Most

people do not want to replace clubs often.

You will get more speed out of your swing when using a graphite

golf club. If your goal is to hit hard and fast, this may be a good

option for you.

Graphite is lighter which also means it is harder to control. For this

reason, many beginner and mid level players may not want to use

graphite clubs. Once you gain more control over the club, then

consider using graphite.

Graphite is also excellent for its ability to absorb shock in the swing,

which could potentially improve the swing and where the ball lands.

That said; graphite might cost between 50 and 80 percent more than

traditional steel clubs at the high end.

STEEL SHAFTS

Steel is a more commonly used golf club because it is less expensive, but

there are other reasons why this golf club can be an ideal choice for you.

Steel is stronger and that makes it more durable. With proper

maintenance and care, these clubs will last a long time.

- 13 -

Many do not feel the cost upgrade is worth it for graphite because

steel shafts do perform well.

One of the nice benefits of steel is that you get more consistency

from one steel shaft to the next. You do not have to adjust your

swing to match the club as much then.

You do get more control on your shot with a steel shaft. But, if you

want to get the same distance out of the steel club as you would

the graphite, you will need to have a faster swing speed. This gives

you more power behind the swing, propelling the ball farther.

Those players who are stronger, but need more control in their swing will

benefit from the use of steel clubs. For example, if you are a strong

person but you are new to the course, or have not refined your skills just

yet, the steel shaft will work well for you.

SHAFT FLEX

When you shop for golf clubs, one thing you may notice is the term flex.

The amount of flex in the shaft does play an important role in the game.

You should consider just how much flex the club has and how that will

affect your golf game.

Flex is the amount of bend in the shaft. To select the right amount of flex

for your clubs, you need to know a bit about your speed. You want to

match your swing speed with the shaft flex. There are several things to

keep in mind here.

1. Powerful Swinger?

If you have a fast swing that ranges from 90 to 110 miles per hour,

or more, then you definitely need to purchase a club that has a stiff

or firm shaft. This amount of speed is not always a good thing. You

- 14 -

may lose control of the swing more often. However, when you

purchase a firm shaft, you will get more control from the golf club.

2. More Average?

For those who are mostly average golf players, with a swing speed

range of 75 to 90 miles per hour, you do not need anything

specialized in terms of the flex. Rather, look for a "regular" shaft

instead.

3. Just Starting Out?

Beginners and those who do not have a strong swing will need

something to help them here. Look for a shaft that offers more

flexibility. The flexibility gives you better results.

One exception to these rules is if you are purchasing a shaft that has been

labeled as a uniflex shaft. Uniflex is a term that is seen more commonly.

It simply means that just about any golfer will do fine using the club, in

terms of flex. Uniflex may cost a bit more but it can also be a good option

for those who are unsure of what their needs are or those who are just

starting out and are likely to improve their swing strength.

THE CLUB HEAD

Next, focus your attention on the bottom of the club, or the club head.

Again, here you have several options. When selecting some types of club

heads, you will need to learn the club head's sweet spot. This is the place

on the club that when hit will give you the best overall results from the

swing. This is where you want to hit, in other words.

WOODS

- 15 -

When shopping for golf woods, consider the following three common

options:

Standard Woods

Standard woods are a good option for those who want better

control. They are often a good option overall, but keep in mind that

the sweet spot is small on these clubs. They are about 150 to 155

cubic centimeters in size.

Midsize Woods

In the middle, you have just that: a wood that is the best of both

the standard and oversized woods. You get about 195 cubic

centimeters on the club head. These clubs are lighter in weight than

oversized heads, but they also have a medium sized sweet spot.

They offer a different club head material, which gives it a better

combination of benefits to the user.

Oversized Club Heads

The oversized clubs will give you the largest size (better chance to

hit the ball!) They often have up to a 250 cubic centimeter head.

This club head is also one of the most forgiving of all options. It is

the largest and therefore has the largest sweet spot for players. It

may be a good option for beginners.

WOOD MATERIALS

Next, consider what the club head is made from. The wood materials do

play a role in the effectiveness of the club. Here is what to look for:

Titanium

You will see many people using titanium, if it is in their budget to

do so. That is because this club head is much lighter in weight.

Because of its lighter weight, it can help create larger club heads.

The larger size also contributes to a larger sweet spot. The biggest

- 16 -

downfall of titanium is the price. It is often priced well above most

other wood materials.

Stainless Steel

The most common option in club heads is stainless steel. These are

less expensive to purchase but you will find them heavier than

other heads, including titanium and other alloys on the market.

These heads are more traditional and they will feel more traditional.

Some people swear they will never switch from them because of

their "normal" feel. This all comes from the fact that the club head

is smaller.

Some of these material options are subjective. You may simply learn to

prefer one type to another. In that case, it is more important to be

comfortable.

IRON TYPES

There are several iron types to select from as well. The top main options

are cast irons and forged irons. It is important to know the difference

when purchasing these.

Cast Irons

Cast irons have cavity back construction. This is also called perimeter-

weighted irons. Here is what to look for:

Most of the head weight of the cast iron is on the outside of the

head.

Because there is more weight along the edges of the iron, this gives

you a larger sweet spot.

- 17 -

These irons are also more forgiving than others are. For this

reason, they are a good choice for beginners. They are better for

those who mishit the ball often. They are, then, good for those who

are just learning and those who need help improving their game.

Forged Irons

Forged irons are the exact opposite compared to cast irons.

There is no specialized weight distribution on the back of the club

head.

Because it has this even distribution, the center of gravity in these

clubs is the center of the club head.

In turn, this also creates a smaller sweet spot.

Those who have a low handicap will find that this type of iron gives

them more control and can improve their game play even more so.

Those who are advanced and who are consistent in the way and

location of the hit will find that forged irons are best. You should be

consistently in the center of the club head to benefit from this type

of iron.

As you can see, there are many types of clubs on the market. Each club

type gives you even more option to select from. In the next chapter, we

will better break down the actual types of clubs and what they can do for

you.

- 18 -

3

TIPS FOR CLUB SELECTION:

THINK PUTTERS, IRONS AND

MORE

Golf club sets are commonly sold to new golfers. They are, for the most

part, an affordable way to get the clubs you need to get back out there on

the green. As you consider your options, you may decide you want to

customize your golf club set more so.

A golfer needs to have a few clubs to start out on the course. Any good

set will include several 3 to 9 irons, a sand wedge, a pitching wedge and a

putter. That is all you really need when you head out. Nevertheless, over

time, you will likely want a more specialized option. You can obtain this

through selecting more specific clubs, which we will discuss in the

following pages.

BUYING CLUB SETS

Purchasing a premade set is a good option for some, especially those

starting out. Let's talk about what to look for when buying a set like this,

first.

The first thing you need to know is the type of player you are. You need to

know what your handicap is. We discussed the importance of various

- 19 -

clubs based on handicap in an earlier chapter. With that in mind, consider

what should make up your beginning set.

You need two or three woods

In particular, look for a driver and 2 fairway woods. The best option

here is to go with a 3 and 5 wood as they are the most commonly

sought after. You can also add more, a 3.5 or a 7 wood is a good

option for most, too.

Next, think about the eight irons

Most sets will include irons 3 through 9 and then add a pitching

wedge to the mix. When you are out on the course, you may notice

that some players are no longer carrying 3 and 4 irons but an

additional fairway wood. Again, remember there is a lot of flexibility

here.

Putter

You have to have a putter but these are generally sold separately

from club sets. That is because putters are very dependent on your

overall style of play and physical needs.

Wedges

Here, you want a sand wedge that has a 55 to 57 degree loft. Then,

you usually can select between a lob wedge, which has a 60 to 64

degree loft or go with the gap wedge with a 50 to 53 degree loft.

That is really all you need to keep in mind when looking at sets (besides

what has already been mentioned previously. Now, what about those who

want to select clubs more specifically? Here is a closer look.

THE PUTTER

- 20 -

Putters are often the go to club and they are often the club most golfers

will have specialized for their particular needs. Virtually all golfers put a lot

of focus in their putting ability and that means having a putter that really

plays to your personal preferences, physical needs, looks and weight. In

other words, before purchasing a putter, golf with several types and get to

know your options. It will pay off.

PUTTER TYPES

Even still, there are some areas that you should be knowledgeable about

before purchasing a putter. One of the biggest decisions you will need to

make is what type of putter to use. Here are some options to select from.

Blade Putters

These putters have narrow and flat features to them. This type of

putter gives you a good feel for the golf ball. It is often the choice

among low handicap (above average) golfers. The blades are

different specifically in the area where the shaft enters the club

head. This may happen at the heel or at the center. Those that

have the shaft enter the center of the club head (or more towards

the center) are called center shafted.

Mallets

Mallets sound like what they are. They have a large round club

head on them. The club has fairly even weight distribution

throughout it. This gives you a more balanced club which leads to

more consistency when putting. This is one of the key reasons so

many like this particular putter.

Perimeter Weighted

As the name of this putter implies, the weight of the putter is

distributed around the edges of the club. By doing this, the sweet

spot is larger in these putters. For those golfers who may have

- 21 -

those "off swings" or "mis-hits" this putter is a good option because

it is more forgiving.

Insert Putters

For those who want a better feel, consider these types of putters.

Insert putters have a composite insert within them that is made of

a soft material. This gives you a smoother role and gives you more

"feel" on the put itself. When you look at them closely, you will

notice that the insert is located on the face of the putter. This gives

you an easy way of knowing where the sweet spot is located.

Offset Putters

In offset putters, the actual putter blade is located back from the

shaft just a small amount. When you stand over the putt, your eyes

are easily able to move directly on top of the ball with this type of

putter. It also increases the top spin.

Does length matter? When selecting a putter you definitely will notice that

length matters. Imagine a putter that is too short for your body. This

messes up the putting line. If the putter is too long, that too creates a

putting line that is not ideal.

So, how do you know what length the putter should be? It actually is

easy. Here is a method that works well.

1. Get into your regular putting stance.

2. Allow your arms and hands to hang down where they naturally

would.

3. Have someone measure from just above the top of the hand down.

This will give you the ideal length for the putter.

- 22 -

IRONS

In the game of golf, an iron is in use when you have a shorter golf shot to

make. Generally, this is shots that range from 200 yards to as short as

100 years. There are several things to consider when selecting which iron

to use. Specifically, your golf ability is important to note and, the loft of

the club head. Focus on your ability to hit at that distance and select the

club best suited for helping you. The good news is that there are now

many ideal products on the market that have improved so much so that

simply picking the right iron will help you to make the shot.

When buying irons, you need to focus on several things. To refrain from

actually repeating information, take a look back at the selection of golf

clubs when buying irons. You want to consider:

The type of iron

Either a forged iron or a cast iron

The shaft material

Graphite or steel

The club head

Based on the size and materials that are right for your game

We have given an overview of how to select these elements in the

previous chapter.

WEDGES

- 23 -

In your golf bag, you will need to have a wedge, likely more than one.

This particular club could be considered a specialty club. You will reach for

it for the more challenging short shots on the green. It can also be used in

the sand. While you did not have to have a wedge in the past, the way

that manufacturers have changed the lofts on regular irons has made it

more important than ever to have the right wedge in your golf set.

There are several types of wedges to consider including the pitching

wedge, the sand wedge, the gap wedge and the lob wedge. Let's break

this down.

Pitching Wedge

The pitching wedge has a loft of 46 to 51 degrees, generally. You

will use it for a longer wedge shot such as those at 125 or closer.

You usually will obtain one when you purchase a golf set, so buying

one out of the set is not necessarily unless you want to.

Sand Wedge

This wedge is used mostly out of the sand. You can also use it for

closer shots that need to hit a high height. These wedges have a

loft of 55 to 57 degrees.

Gap Wedge

The gap wedge is becoming more popular today than ever because

of the difference between the sand wedge and the traditional iron

set. It has a loft of 51 to 53 degrees. The gap wedge can be

considered the mid ground between the sand wedge and the

pitching wedge.

Lob Wedge

The log wedge has a 60 to 64 degree loft. It is used for those tricky

shots such as those that need to get over an obstacle and onto the

green. Note that the higher the loft is, the more height the ball will

reach. However, the more height the ball travels, the less actual

distance the ball will go.

- 24 -

How do you choose the right wedge for your needs? There are several

things to keep in mind actually. Look in your golf bag. Do you notice a big

gap in between your pitching wedge and the sand wedge? If so, then you

can add a gap wedge between them that offers a loft between the two.

Also, keep in mind that the conditions of your game play also matter.

What generally are the conditions in which you play? This can help you to

select a sand wedge.

Check out the length of the wedges. You want the wedge length to be

about the same as your standard irons. In other words, you want the

wedges to mirror your regular irons and be about in ½ inch increments.

The shaft of the wedge is also important to consider. Most people prefer

steel because it is more durable and because of its overall inexpensive

cost. In addition, steel is often considered because it gives the golfer more

control over their shot due it is heavier weight.

DRIVER AND FAIRWAY WOOD

Your woods or metal woods are your go to club for those longer shots in

the game. They are most often used off the tee, for example. Some more

advanced players will also use the driver off the fairway when they want

extra distance. This can be hard to control for some beginners, though.

You can use a fairway off the tee if you are on a narrow hole and it needs

more precision than a traditional shot. You can use a fairway when the

hole is shorter and therefore you do not want as much distance that the

driver is going to offer you.

- 25 -

In addition, fairway woods are important for many of those more

specialized, or utility shots. For example, tight lies in the rough and

fairway bunkers need to have more distance to get on to the green. At the

same time, you need the ball to get into the air quickly. These fairway

woods can help with that.

Like your irons, you need to consider your playing ability (handicap) and

the construction of the clubs to purchase them. Refer to that section of

this guide to understand what your options are here. Specifically consider

the club head and the shaft. This information was shared previously.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOFT

In addition, you need to focus on the right loft for these clubs. The loft is

the angle of the club head. Remember, the loft distinguishes height. For

example, the more loft you get with the club, the higher the ball will go.

Therefore the greater the angle on the face of the club head is, the more

control you have but the less distance you will get. Flip that around, the

less loft you have, the farther the distance will be, but this also gives you

less control.

Most often, you want the loft to be between 8 and 12 degrees. If you have

a slot swing speed, you want to select a loft that is in the higher range to

compensate for that. For those with a slow swing speed, look for a loft of

10.5 to 12 degrees. For the medium road swing speed, go with a 9.5 to

10.5 degree loft. For those with a fast swing, reduce the loft to 8 to 9.5

degrees.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEIGHT

Next, focus on the weight of the club. Just like the loft, what you select

here will control the game. For example, the lighter the club is, the faster

- 26 -

you will see your swing speed. This also contributes to the longer the ball

can be hit.

Those who are mid or high handicappers will benefit from the lighter

clubs. This is especially true if you do not have a strong swing. Your game

play will benefit from a lighter driver. On the other hand, those with a low

handicap or any golfer who already has a high swing speed will want to

select a club that is slightly heavier. This added weight will increase the

amount of control that you have with each swing.

THE RIGHT LENGTH

Next, focus on the length of these clubs. As described earlier, length plays

an important role in the way your club will fit into your game. Getting the

right length means only selecting from three basic club lengths that are on

the market.

Traditional Length Club

Traditional clubs are often sought out. They have an average length

of 43 to 44 inches.

Mid Length Club

In the middle, you have a club that is about 45 to 46 inches in

length. With this bit of extra length, you will get a slightly longer

distance potential. Some select the mid length club because the

weight of these clubs is more in line with older clubs. This is due to

the lighter weight shaft materials used in them.

Long Length Club

These clubs are those that are longer than 46 inches. The length

does give them potential for the longer shot, which is a good thing.

The biggest problem is that the length also means less control for

the golfer. Those with a lower handicap often use these clubs.

- 27 -

CHOOSING THE BEST FAIRWAY WOODS

Many people are selecting fairway woods more often than they used to be

used. Specifically, they are a good alternative option for drivers off the tee

and those harder to hit irons including the 2 iron, 3 iron and the 4 iron.

Still, you do have to consider which fairway woods are best for your

game. There are just a couple of things to remember when determining if

you should be buying these golf clubs.

1. Most players are more comfortable standing over the long fairway

shot with the longer and lower in profile wood instead of the more

difficult to hit long iron.

2. The fairway woods have a lower center of gravity. This will make it

easier to get the golf ball into the air out of the fairway, out of the

rough and out of the sand.

3. The fairway wood has a larger club head. This helps to provide

better distance without causing an over swing when you compare it

to a long iron. As a result, this gives it more control and more

length.

Should you go with a fairway wood or with a long iron? The debate rages

on. It is always going to be an option of selection that is up to the actual

golfer.

If you do decide to switch between the two, keep this in mind:

A 5 wood is the equivalent of the 3 iron

A 7 wood is the equivalent of the 3 iron or the 4 iron

A 9 wood is the equivalent of the 5 iron

- 28 -

With this information, you should be able to select virtually every club that

you need in the game. Keep in mind the importance of selecting a club

that you like the feel of. If you are new to the game, you should stick as

close to these instructions as possible. If you are a seasoned player but

are having trouble with your golf game, it could be because you are using

the wrong club for the skill you have. Use these tips to help you to

improve the actual results you get.

If you are unsure what the right club is for your game level, or have other

questions, you can always meet with a golf instructor or talk to a trusted

customer service professional. Seek out one that is able to provide in

depth understanding of the club selection.

- 29 -

4

CLUB SHOPPING FOR

CHILDREN AND WOMEN

As you can imagine, women's clubs and children's golf clubs are far

different from what many would call the "standard, on the floor models"

designed for men. The good news is that there are now more options

available to both women golfers and to children. It is not recommended

that you purchase a set of high end, over priced golf clubs for kids who

will outgrow them quickly and often times will get little use from them.

However, for women, it is incredibly important to look for a few specific

things when buying clubs.

WOMEN'S CLUB BUYING TIPS

There is no rule that says that women cannot use the standard golf clubs

out there. In other words, you do not have to purchase specific women's

clubs, but since your body and that of a man's is made up differently, it is

beneficial to select specialized clubs designed for it. It can be a very good

investment to select golf clubs designed for women.

In some situations, selecting the right women's clubs is the difference

between leaving the game and making it a lifelong investment. The good

news is that manufacturers know that women want something more

specialized for them and that has resulted in more options than ever been

available for women golfers. Here, we talk about what is important for

women golfers to look for in golf clubs.

- 30 -

WOODS

For the woman, woods are designed to be lighter which increases the

speed of the swing, which in turn gives you more distance. Some

manufacturers have designed woods around the various heights of

women. Women who are shorter should not be playing with clubs that

were designed for those who are taller. You will see differences based on

this. If you are shopping for women's woods and find some that do not

specifically state the size they are designed for, you can assume these

clubs are right for those who are between 5'5" and 5'8" in height.

IRONS

For your irons, you will find that women's designs are far lighter. This

gives you so much more control in the game. You also will find it is usually

the case, where women prefer to use utility woods instead of using the

longer irons. For example, many women like to use 7 and 9 woods

because it is easier to do so. Instead of using a 3 iron, for example, they

switch it out for these woods.

Keep in mind: some women golfers are more likely to carry the following

clubs in their bags rather than any other assortment. They will have a 3

wood, 5 wood, 7 wood and 9 wood in their bag. These woods provide a

larger hitting area than most irons do. This makes them easier to use to

hit the ball and get it into the air well.

CHILDREN'S CLUBS

For those purchasing children's clubs, there are obviously concerns about

size, but there are also other things to think about. First, go for a club set

since it is usually more affordable and will give them all they need. You

- 31 -

should not teach a child to play golf using an adjusted sized club set. You

should also not allow a child to use cut off sets of adult clubs since this

does not give them any flex in the shaft, limiting their game.

Here are some things to look for when buying children's golf clubs:

Look for the right size putter

Remember, a putter is the most important piece of golf equipment

here too. To get the right size, look for the measurement from

slightly above the child's waist down to the ground.

Undersized grips are important

Your child has smaller hands and they need narrow grips to hold

the club properly.

Length is essential too

You will find starter golf club sets that are designed for children who

are under 10 years of age. You will also find those for those who

are 11 to 14, who are preteen aged. There are teenager options,

too. Go with these recommendations for length.

Weight keeps them successful

The clubs often need to be the proper weight so that the club is

swung easily and they get enough balance and control from it.

Club options should include these

When buying a starter set for children, focus on smaller sets that

include a smaller number of clubs to help limit decisions.

Irons and woods are important

The lowest iron is the 6 iron, in most cases. Replace the driver with

an easier to hit 3 wood or 5 wood.

- 32 -

These tips can help you to get the right club for your child no matter what

their passion is…yet.

- 33 -

5

MORE GOLF EQUIPMENT?

Is all you need is a handful of golf clubs and perhaps a golf cart to get out

on the course; there are a few more items that you need to have in your

ownership when you are playing the game. Buying these items can

sometimes be as difficult as purchasing the golf clubs. With so many

products on the market to give you options, it can be very confusing in

the short term.

The good thing is that outside of the huge assortment of options, it is

actually quite easy for you to select the right golf equipment. There are no

set rules. In short, you are buying golf equipment based on what you like

and feel comfortable with. Still, it is worth mentioning these helpful tips

for selecting the right golf equipment outside of the clubs.

THE GOLF BAG

It seems simple enough to purchase a golf bag but when you start looking

at your options, you are sure to find out that there is a huge assortment

of options on the market currently. You do need a bag. A golf bag not only

makes transporting your clubs from place to place possible, but they are

also designed to protect the clubs overall. This way, you can be sure that

the clubs will not be damaged from drops, bumps and even hits.

Here are some tips you need for golf bag buying.

- 34 -

For those on a limited budget, the best way to reduce costs is to

select a generic golf bag rather than a name brand. You could

spend $500 or more on a golf bag specifically selected for its name

brand. On the other hand, if you are not set on a PGA tour style of

golf bag, then you can find one for a fraction of that cost.

If you have some reason not to use a golf cart, you may wish to

purchase a lightweight golf bag that offers the ability to stand well.

The weight of the golf bag is an important factor regardless

especially for those unable to carry heavy bags. Pull carts can help

to reduce this strain at an additional cost.

Golf bags with lots of pockets and accessories may be a nice

addition if you can swing it in your budget. If not, go with a less

expensive, less frill-filled bag. It will work just as well.

Durability is important. Purchase quality here, with a thick-skinned

bag. This will give the most protection for the bag.

GOLF BALLS

Although golf balls look a lot alike, there is a great deal of different from

one type to the next. For those who are beginners or average players who

do not spend a lot of time worrying about their handicap, selecting lower

costing balls is an option. Here are some more tips:

Do select golf balls that are name brand if possible since this gives

you an improved quality in most cases. You can find name brands

like Top Flite available at discount department stores and golf shops

inexpensively.

- 35 -

Buy enough. You will lose many golf balls on the course. It can help

to reduce costs to purchase in bulk.

Likewise, realize that you will lose your golf balls. In other words,

there may not be a good reason to purchase professional quality

golf balls if you are a new golfer.

OTHER GOLF EQUIPMENT

Here are a few more items to keep in mind when shopping for golf

equipment.

GOLF GLOVES

It is not required for golf play but many golfer like to wear golf gloves.

This is something you will want to use more frequently as your game skill

improves or if you are a serious golfer. It does help with the overall game

play to some level. For example, golfers will often find themselves

sweating on the hot summer days on the green. The glove gives you that

relief by not allowing the club to slip in your hand. If a golf glove makes

you uncomfortable, then you do not need to use it.

GOLF SHOES

Golf shoes are also important. These are sometimes required on the golf

course, depending on the type of course you are playing at. You want to

select a golf specific shoe is possible because they do not damage the

greens and fairways but they do give you more traction and a better

stance. Golf shoes are also a good thing when it starts to rain. It is very

important to select comfortable golf shoes. If you cannot stand properly

because your feet hurt, it will affect your golf game.

- 36 -

GOLF CLOTHING

It is not recommended that you purchase golf specific clothing unless you

have an unlimited budget, want to dress the part or you are a

professional. In short, this clothing may not offer any advantage over the

clothing that you purchase to wear normally.

On the other hand, you will some types of golf clothing that do add a

benefit. Some products offer the ability to wick away the sweat from your

body, keeping you dry during the summer months when you are deep into

the fairways with the hot sun blazing down on you. This type of clothing is

becoming more readily available than ever and the prices are dropping,

which selection options rise.

There is no requirement for specific brands or this type of water resistance

clothing, but your golf course may require that you wear specific attire on

the course, such as collar shirts.

As you can see, golf equipment does affect your golf game. Do not

overlook the importance of selecting quality products. That does not mean

you have to purchase top of the line brand names but it does mean that

you should look into the quality of anything you do buy.

- 37 -

6

CUSTOMIZATION AND

DESIGNER BRANDS?

YES OR NO?

Now that you know what type of club you are looking for, and what is

right for your overall needs, you may still have a few more questions. For

example, should you go with a top name brand of golf clubs? Moreover,

what is this about custom fitted golf clubs? These are areas that you can

choose from, good and bad elements are found on both sides of the coin.

Before you invest in either name brand clubs or in custom fitted clubs,

you should consider the following.

In addition, just to let you know, both do have advantages to consider.

NAME BRAND OR NO NAME AT ALL?

If you do any search for golf clubs online or look in a local shop, and you

are sure to see golf brand names everywhere. They are all over the PGA

Tour, and most of these companies spend millions of dollars to help you to

learn who they are and what they have to offer to you. They want you to

know who they are because when you do shop for these golf products,

you may purchase them.

Names like Nike, Callaway, TaylorMade and Adams Golf are just a few of

the options out there. Which one should you choose?

- 38 -

Before you make a decision on which is the right option for you, there are

several things to keep in mind on both sides of the coin.

1. Name brand products may offer more options to select from. For

example, you may find more specialized products and more size

options by manufacturers who are specializing in golf equipment

and because they are large enough to offer more options.

2. The bottom line is that you need golf clubs that fit your budget,

your handicap and any specialized needs or preferences you have.

Finding clubs that fit those qualifications is the most important

aspect and step here.

3. Do insist on top quality. Imagine being out on the green, ready to

make the shot of your life, and you pull out your club to find out it

has been damaged. They can snap, bend and be "dinged" enough

that this will affect the way you plan the game. It is a far better

option to select a top quality product that will last a long time

instead. Quality does not always equate to price, though.

4. Consider the resale value of the clubs. For those who are

purchasing children's clubs or those who are purchasing clubs that

they are not sure they will ever use, you may find yourself wanting

to sell them down the road. It will be easier to sell clubs that are

name brand rather than off brand products. People know and trust

these lines more so.

5. Do not overlook the fact that some professional grade products are

just unnecessarily expensive. In some cases, putting the term

"professional" or "pro" on the club ups the price. Rather, look at the

specs of the club and decide for yourself if the club is the overall

best option for your particular needs.

- 39 -

At the end of the day, one thing matters: is this the right club for you?

If you are a beginner, do not spend too much on golf clubs. In fact, you

probably should be out on the golf course, renting clubs at least for the

first few times. Your game will change during this learning era and

therefore you cannot know the best way to product for your particular

needs just yet.

If you are an average player, go with a middle of the road golf club in

terms of costs, looking for a quality design, though. Of course, this always

means you should know how passionate you are about the game. Those

who spend four days a week on the course are likely to want a top quality

club whereas those who will play four times a year may not need to invest

as much.

Professional or advanced players should invest in higher quality. This will

affect their performance in high stakes competitions.

CUSTOM FIT GOLF CLUBS

You walk into a golf store. A helpful professional who wants to help you to

locate the golf clubs that are right for your needs greets you. After

showing you what is available he says, "You know, you would benefit from

custom fit golf clubs. Consider it." What does that mean? Are the golf

clubs on the shelves not good enough for you, or perhaps your game is so

"unique" that you need something that is more specialized. How can that

happen?

Many people will benefit from the use of custom fit golf clubs. You may be

one of them. One of the biggest reasons for doing so is your swing. Some

experts say that no two golfers have the same golf swing. Every golfer's

swing is somewhat different from the next. From the address through to

- 40 -

the follow through, there are differences that may be so small an amateur

would not notice them. Many things that make those changes happen. As

mentioned previously, your height plays a role in it. However, so does the

amount of knee flex you have when you contact with the ball.

That said, it is a simple fact that anyone can benefit from having custom-

made golf clubs. It makes sense: if the club fits your style and your

overall physical attributes better, chances are good that it will help

improve your golf game. While this is the case, keep in mind that not

everyone needs custom golf clubs.

Are you a low handicap golfer? Using custom made golf clubs can

help you to get closer to the scratch level.

If you are a beginner, a set of custom-made golf clubs can push

you farther towards learning the key aspects of the game while

helping you to learn properly. Still, keep in mind that the beginner

is likely to spend a great deal to get their hands on these clubs and

it may not be worthwhile to someone who has yet to perfect their

swing.

THE ADVANTAGES OF CUSTOM FIT CLUBS

Why are custom fit golf clubs a good option for some? What are the

advantages of investing more money into these? Well, there are several:

1. Different heights of the golfer no longer matter since the golf clubs

are designed for your height.

2. The address to the ball no longer matters, since the club will fit

your particular needs

3. The weight needs of the club are based on your particular needs

and what you prefer to see in the club.

- 41 -

4. The shaft length can be accommodating to your needs. This gives

you a swing that is more comfortable and more productive. You no

longer have to change your swing to accommodate the club's

improper length.

5. Better weighting for your particular needs means the ball hits the

sweet spot more often. That means better distance, better accuracy

and even better control.

All of these things come together for your particular needs. Rather than

trying to track down a club that fits all of your needs, and spending a lot

of your time on the green trying to compensate for a club that does not fit

perfectly, these custom fit options cater to your specific needs every time.

These clubs seem like the best choice then, right. Before you make the

purchase, it is important to note that while these clubs will help you to

more prepared and on your game, they do not take away the need to

perfect your swing through practice and training.

In other words, purchasing custom golf clubs will do little for you if you do

not learn how to golf properly using the right techniques. As a beginner,

custom fit golf clubs will not take away the need to learn the game and

perfect your swing.

For those who have a limited budget, select a set of golf clubs that are

readymade for a lower cost. For those with a better budget and a few

months of practice under your belt, do consider the benefits custom fit

golf clubs can offer to you.

- 42 -

7

MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR

GOLF CLUB BUYERS

You know what it takes to buy a set of golf clubs you can be proud of and

that will fit your golf game ideally. Then, you look at the price tag. Even if

you do not go with the priciest options and you avoid custom fit golf clubs,

you are likely to spend a few hundred dollars at least on a set of clubs.

The good news is that there are ways to save money and still get a good

quality golf club. Check out these tips, each of which can save you a

substantial amount of money on golf clubs, either sets or individual clubs.

1. Shop for clubs that fit your game

We have talked about that throughout this entire process. If the

club fits your game, you can use it more freely and benefit from it.

Do not buy clubs you cannot justify as needing or those that do not

fit your specific needs properly. You will just want to reach for

another club instead.

2. Consider used golf clubs

It is possible to purchase used golf clubs and it can actually be a

good investment. If so, there are several things to look for:

a. Look at the wear pattern on the club. Is it consistent across

the board?

b. How about dings or cuts in the club head? If they are there,

you will need to pass on the clubs or have them prepared.

- 43 -

c. Hold the club out in front of you. Is the shaft awkwardly bent

or misshapen?

d. Do a couple of test swings. Does it feel right, and is it the

right length?

e. Note that some golf clubs are being sold as "used" but in fact

may have never even seen the green. People often purchase

golf clubs or even sets and then never use them or give them

as gifts to those who do not use them.

3. Be careful shopping at online auctions

You will save money at these auctions (think eBay here) if you

know the value of what you are buying and can trust the seller. For

example, before you get too far ahead of yourself in the bidding,

know the actual retail value of the clubs. Buy when they are

marked lower substantially, and know when the price has gotten

too high.

4. Do shop sales!

One of the best ways to save money on the purchase of golf clubs

is to shop for the sales that are often available through online

retailers and even some of the local stores. Sales may mark down

the price of the products considerably, and they may get you free

things, too, such as a free golf bag.

5. Clearance and last year's models do work well!

Many retailers need to clear out their inventory so that they can

make room for this year's models. This is the perfect way to save

substantially on new golf clubs and even name brand products.

There is not any other reason for marking down these clubs other

than simply needing to clear them out. Of course, it is understood

that you should purchase what fits your golf needs, as we have

included throughout this book. Otherwise, the cost savings are not

worthwhile!

- 44 -

6. Shop around before you buy

One of the biggest things you can do to save money on golf

equipment is to shop around. You are likely to find discounts readily

available through various locations on the same brand, style, and

size club. Do not overlook the benefit of shopping online where

there are more retailers, increasing competition and reducing your

costs across the board.

7. Try it out first

You may not think twice about taking out that $2000 vehicle for a

test drive. You should not think twice about taking out that $2000

set of golf clubs either. When you rent golf clubs, get to know them

intimately. Learn from them. What do you like or do not like?

Ultimately, this could be a great "trial run" for you so you do not

waste your money on golf clubs that do not feel right on the course.

There are a number of ways you can save on golf club purchases. Go for

it!

SAVING MONEY ON CUSTOM FIT CLUBS

How about saving money on custom fit golf clubs, is it possible to do? You

can do so.

1. Be sure you are working with a retailer that you trust. Do your

research and learn about them. The worst-case scenario is that an

unscrupulous company will tell you, you need something you do

not, wasting your money.

2. Do be specific about your needs. Get it right the first time out so

that you do not find problems later.

- 45 -

3. Comparison shop; again, comparing your options will save you

money. You can always get quotes without having to pay for

anything upfront, allowing you to easily compare your options.

At the end of the day, having a quality set of golf clubs will cost you at

least a little bit of money. Chances are good this will be a large

investment. However, you can always do it slowly. Add clubs to your golf

bag as your game improves and you learn the needs that you have. Give

yourself the time to find the right club for your particular needs rather

than settling on something you will not like or use.

Your golf game is at stake here, after all. Do not go for clubs that do not

either enhance your game or pull you forward in improving your game.

They will not be worth the money, even if it is a little bit of money!