Golf Clubs

What To Consider When Buying Golf Clubs

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or you’re just starting out, your choice of golf clubs can be just as important as mastering your swing technique—but what should you look for when buying golf clubs?

From understanding which golf clubs to buy for beginners to knowing how different materials and design can impact performance, here are some valuable tips to help you choose the right set of golf clubs that will support you to play your best.

Skill Level

Your level of skill plays a pivotal role in determining which set of golf clubs will best suit your game.

Beginners are generally best placed to opt for more forgiving ‘game improvement’ clubs, which feature larger sweet spots and perimeter weighting which can help compensate for off-centre hits and provide more consistent results.

As skill progresses, intermediate players may benefit from having a mix of game improvement and players' irons (which have a smaller club head profile, thinner topline and higher centre of gravity which requires more precision in ball striking) to strike a balance between forgiveness and shot control.

Advanced players often opt for more specialised clubs which may be customised in terms of shaft flexibility (flex), loft and clubhead design to suit their unique swing dynamics and personal preferences.

Shaft Material

The material a club shaft is constructed from can have a big impact on shaft flex, which refers to its ability to bend during the golf swing, influencing the trajectory and feel of the shot.

Shaft flex can range from extra stiff to stiff, regular, flex or ladies. Players with slower swing speeds (which is common among beginners) may benefit from a more flexible shaft to generate extra distance, while advanced players might prefer a stiffer shaft for better control.

Golf club shafts are typically constructed from either graphite or steel.

Graphite shafts are known for being lighter and more flexible, making them a popular option for golfers seeking increased clubhead speed and distance. Graphite also tends to offer more vibration dampening, making them ideal for players with slower swing speeds or those with joint issues.

In contrast, steel shafts are widely appreciated for their durability and consistent performance. They’re generally heavier than graphite shafts and provide less flex, a more solid feel and greater control, making them popular among skilled players.

Clubhead Design

The shape, size and weight distribution of the clubhead can impact a player's ability to strike the ball cleanly, control trajectory and achieve optimal distance.

Beginners often benefit from larger clubheads with a higher moment of inertia (MOI) which provides greater forgiveness, reducing the impact of mishits and promoting straighter shots.

Conversely, skilled players often prefer smaller, more compact clubheads that allow for increased workability and shot-shaping control.

Golf Club Sets

When starting out, most players can get by with only a driver, a 3-wood, some mid- to short-range irons (e.g. 6-9), a pitching wedge and putter. However, as your game develops, it’s worthwhile investing in a more comprehensive golf club set with a more complete and cohesive collection of clubs to cover you in various situations on the course.

Club sets are also designed to offer a harmonised feel and consistent performance across all clubs, promoting a smoother transition between different shots and improving overall confidence and playability.

Buying a golf club set is often more cost-effective than purchasing individual clubs, which can make it an attractive option for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a comprehensive and budget-friendly solution.

Budget

Budget is always an important consideration when you buy golf clubs. While it can be tempting to invest in a top-of-the-range set of clubs in the hopes it will enhance your performance, it’s more important to choose the right clubs to complement your skill level and playing preferences.

As a beginner, it’s generally best to opt for budget-friendly golf clubs that are suitable for your current level of play. As your game progresses and you better understand your playing style and the features you most value in your clubs, you may then decide to invest extra to upgrade to a more advanced set of golf clubs.

Visit a GCO Store for Club Fitting and Testing

Still wondering “what size golf clubs do I need”? Or maybe you need some extra tips about how to choose a golf club set or how to choose golf clubs for beginners.

If you’re at all unsure what golf clubs will best suit you, it’s best to seek advice from a professional.

Rather than trying to buy golf clubs online, simply head into one of our Golf Clearance Outlet stores which are kitted out with golf simulators and putting greens, and one of our golf experts can conduct a personalised club fitting and recommend the best golf clubs for your personal requirements.

Find your closest Golf Clearance Outlet store