If you’re new to golf or considering taking it up, you’ll likely have questions about the right clubs and which ones are best for beginners.
With endless types of clubs available, it can feel a little overwhelming when you’re new to the game. Our team is here to help.
We’ve put together this handy guide to help you find the right clubs for you to get out on the course and start getting those birdies.
Do you need a full set of golf clubs?
A full set of golf clubs consists of 14 clubs. In reality, as a novice golfer, you won’t need or use all these clubs from the very beginning. Most golf pros recommend between seven and ten clubs for newcomers, and remember that you can always add to this set as your game improves.
Playing with a smaller set helps keep things simple and your bag light. It enables you to make quicker decisions as you go round the course and also perfect your skills by playing with certain clubs rather than trying to use them all.
A typical starter set of golf clubs should include:
- A driver for tee shots on par four and par five holes
- Fairway wood or hybrid for second shots
- 5, 7 and 9 irons, which are versatile and useful for most approach shots
- Pitching wedge or sand wedge for when you find yourself in the bunker or the rough
- Putter for sinking the ball into the hole on the green
As your skills develop, you may want to try other clubs and add more to your set. As many beginner golfers improve their skills, they begin to look at extra wedges and longer irons.
What to look for when buying golf clubs as a beginner
Choosing the right set of golf clubs will depend on your preferences and budget, but there are a few factors to look out for that can help make a golf club more beginner-friendly. Consider looking for golf clubs that have:
- Cavity-back irons give larger sweet spots and keep shots straight.
- Perimeter weighting to distribute weight around the club head for better stability.
- Lightweight shafts make the club lighter and easier to swing.
- Higher lofts help the ball get airborne more quickly.
- Oversized heads make it easier to cleanly connect with the ball.
You may also want to consider getting fitted for your clubs. Many brands now offer beginner sets in different heights, shaft flexes and grip sizes. Having clubs that match your body size and swing speed can make learning much easier.
Tips for buying beginner golf clubs
Here are some useful tips to help you find the right clubs for you:
- Don’t buy too many clubs to start with
- Prioritise forgiveness over distance
- Consider buying second-hand or last season’s models to save money
- Test clubs in a pro shop or driving range before committing
- Remember, the best club is the one you feel comfortable swinging
Are you interested in golf lessons?
If you want to start playing golf, but don’t know your bridie from your albatross, book a course of golf lessons at Whitefields Golf Club. Led by our PGA professional, our golf lessons are tailored to help you learn the basics, the rules and a few skills to get you on the right path to perfecting your handicap.
Find out more about golf lessons at Whitefields Golf Club.