A typical set of golf clubs includes 13 clubs: a driver, three fairway woods, seven irons, a pitching wedge and a putter. A starter set might also have one less fairway wood or one less iron to allow for a sand wedge. Beginners may like having a variety of clubs from which to choose as they make their way across the course, but sometimes having fewer choices is better for players who are still learning the game. The design of the clubs may also be different for beginners.
The Woods
Fairway woods that have more of a loft and a low center of gravity may be just right for a new golfer's starter set because those clubs present players with a greater opportunity to get height and accuracy on their shots. An oversize driver is also a key part of any starter set. You may opt to have only one fairway wood, or perhaps two, since a starter set needn't have the standard 13 clubs that most golfers carry.
Irons
Irons run from 1 to 9 and include a pitching wedge and a sand wedge as well. Some club manufacturers carry a 10-iron, but it is basically just a pitching wedge. If you are looking to minimize your investment and start with only a few irons, consider a 3-, 5-, 7- and 9-iron, as well as a pitching wedge. That way, you have your longer irons, such as the 3-iron for shots requiring distance and accuracy, as well as your short irons for play around the greens. Some experts suggest starting with a 5- or 6-iron and including a 7-, 8-, and 9-iron and a pitching wedge, and just avoiding the longer irons until you get used to the game.
The Putter
Regardless of which or how many irons and woods you place in your bag, a putter is a required club in any starter set. Of course, as any serious golfer will tell you, finding the right putter can be a lifelong pursuit. One of the best ways to find the right putter is to compare a few different models at one time. If you can, take four or five putters to a practice green and start putting from three feet, then six feet, then 10 feet and start to narrow down the putters that feel good and accurate in your hands.
Think About Used Clubs
To start a set of golf clubs for a beginner, consider buying secondhand clubs rather than new clubs. Used sporting goods stores often feature high-quality used merchandise. And for beginners, who are more concerned about learning the game than fine-tuning their game, secondhand clubs may be a better investment at first. You may also want to piece a starter set together one club at a time, allowing you to try the clubs out at a driving range.
Member Comments