Which golf clubs for a beginner? Long post alert!!!!

[Nmoore1974]

Hi All

Im in the process of trying to buy my first “real” set of clubs. First a wee bit about me….
I’m starting out late at 48 years old and have played around 5 rounds in my lifetime. I have a set of Ben sayers M9 clubs which I bought around 10 years ago. They are the +1inch version As I’m 6ft 5in tall. Average round was 110. So you can see I’m not very good!!!

I was going to buy a decent package set but a quick bit of Googling discovered that they apparently wouldn’t be great because of my height. So along I went to a golf retailer to see what they had to offer. The guy did a quick custom fit for Ping G430’s (+1.5 “ 3 degree upright) and I had a go with it (only tried the 7 iron). Results were impressive to me. I was hitting it around 30 yards further and straighter than my BS M9 although I have a tendency to hit it left.
All good so far. I felt good hitting the ball and more importantly enjoyed it. But then came the price, just over £1100 for the irons (5-pw plus sw and gw)
This was more expensive than I anticipated and we hadn’t even spoken about woods, hybrids putters bag etc. I
left telling him I would think about it.

The next day I went to another retailer and hit 200 balls with several different clubs recommended by them . (all 7 irons) All standard apart from being +1inch. They were-
Ping G430 (£1199)
Callaway paradym (£1159)
Taylor Made Stealth £1029)
Mizuno JPX923 (£1029)

Interestingly, I didn’t hit the Pings anywhere near as good as the previous day.
I struggled with the Mizunos so discounted them
Wanted to love the TM stealths…but didn’t for some reason
Callaways, initially were not good, however towards the end seemed to improve. Got great distance on them.

Every single shot ended up left though, no matter what the club so something is broken somewhere!!!

I was looking online last night and noticed clubs that weren’t mentioned but could be custom fit. Callaway Rogue ST Max OS which came in at £549. Or £729 with a SW and GW. With some work discount I can get them for £495 or £655

All the other clubs seem to be in the same ballpark price wise.

Finally, my questions…

1) Would being custom fit for clubs benefit me or can I make do with a standard set at my level? I am going to invest in lessons and can’t help but think it would be better to have clubs suited to me to get the most out of coaching.

2) Should I spend more to get more back? I mean, would I see a difference between the more affordable rogues or the paradyms for example?

3) Are there any recommendations you can make that I have not considered?

4) What clubs do I need in my bag? Do I need a gap wedge for example? Should I change a 5 iron for a hybrid? Do I need a driver Could never hit it years ago) or should I make do with a 3 wood? ( hit and miss, but better than a driver)

If you’ve got this far, well done!!!!
Any advice, hints, tips, recommendations you could give me would mean a lot.

Many Thanks

Neil

 

[Bdill93]

Are you having lessons? - if so, speak to your pro for the best advice

Here's mine though

1) Maybe keep your clubs for a little longer till you get a bit more consistent. Spending a lot on new clubs is tempting but your swing could totally change in the first 6 months.
2) You'd probably benefit from a longer club at 6 5"
3) Have you looked on golfbidder for something longer than standard but used?
4) You'll want a driver eventually - but start with the irons, they are the clubs you use the most
5) Wedges are all dependent on your yardages
6) Hybrids are great and easier to hit than long irons - also higher lofted woods like 7 and 9 woods can be very good clubs.

 

[pendodave]

Being above average height, it's probably best to get some advice from a pro.
Preferably one that you're having lessons with, as they can at least see your swing and whether your height is an issue.
Second hand clubs are much cheaper than new. Funnily enough, people who are 6ft5 also buy and sell clubs. You just need to get an idea of a suitable length/lie combo.

 

[Alan Clifford]

If you are 6'5" and I am 6', when you dangle your arms, are they 5" above mine? How does just 1" increase in length work? I Haven't a clue how this length stuff works but 1" seems a bit odd.

I now have extra clubs that don't go in the bag. 4 and 5 irons are out, and since, buying a 3 hybrid to go with the 3,4,and 6, I've had to lose another one somewhere. The lob wedge went. On the other hand, I can't hit my driver at the moment because of a hurty knee, so the the lob wedge is back in the bag.

You may make seemingly expensive mistakes as you progress. But that is how it is!

 

[Albo]

Custom fit won’t hurt, but equally you may not get the full benefit from them, that said if you take lessons and learn to hit your current shorter length irons, then move to a longer custom fit set, you may struggle to readjust.
Guess it’s a case of what the money means to you, you make buy new clubs change swing and need more new clubs, or you may learn to hit what you’ve got then change clubs and they not work, or none of that may be true.
100% talk to the pro who you are having lessons with and get his advice

 

[Backache]

My understanding is that it's not just height but arm length as well as the main determinant is how far your hands are from the ground.
Personally at 6'2" I was fitted and got a much more consistent strike from a longer club length, wish I'd done it years before

 

[Maninblack4612]

The assumption that tall people need longer clubs is a myth. As said before it's the wrist to ground measurement which is important. Lengthening clubs increases the swingweight, which is OK if that's what you want. The increased length makes the club harder to hit and the 3° upright lie could be the reason you hit everything left. Get a lesson & a fitting.

 

[Bunkermagnet]

I'm 6ft1 and play Ping i20's which are 1" longer and 2 or 3 degrees upright (I cant remember which now). Mine are predimantely longer because of back issues and not wanting to be more bent forward than I need to be.
I would say not all custom fit options are just vanity, and at 6ft5 I would suggest standard length clubs would be probably too short.

 

[Billysboots]

The assumption that tall people need longer clubs is a myth. As said before it's the wrist to ground measurement which is important. Lengthening clubs increases the swingweight, which is OK if that's what you want. The increased length makes the club harder to hit and the 3° upright lie could be the reason you hit everything left. Get a lesson & a fitting.

^^^ This.

I’m over 6’5” and my clubs, which are fitted, are only 1” longer than standard.

Fitting is a must for everyone from 5’0” to 7’0”, 6 stone wet through to 30 stone. We are all very different in size, shape, posture and so on.

 

[oleinone]

If you've joined a club get some lessons organised with your pro. If not, with a pro. He will be best placed to advise on clubs and club length. I wouldn't consider a fitting until you've been coached, practiced and played regularly for at least 6 months. If the pro feels that you need a change of gear immediately, he may well be able to advise on a good second hand buy. If you buy well, you will probably get your money back when you move on to new bats.

 

[Jigger]

I can’t remember where it was I’m afraid but last years mizuno me we being advertised as fitted for 599. Might be worth looking in your area for places with stock of last years clubs….or wait for the new seasons stock to come out. You’re in a tough place given your height.

 

[Billysboots]

You’re in a tough place given your height.

I’m taller than the OP and have absolutely no problem whatsoever with club fitting. Why is he in a tough place?

 

[Nmoore1974]

Hi Everyone

Thanks for all you replies. I’m meeting a pro tomorrow and will see what he advises. Im also going to use him for lessons.
From what I have heard, the Rogue ST Max deal is decent but may not be around for long.
If I buy them and use them for my lessons and going forward, then I should hopefully be set for a few years.

Wish me luck when it comes to the woods

 

[Orikoru]

Hi Everyone

Thanks for all you replies. I’m meeting a pro tomorrow and will see what he advises. Im also going to use him for lessons.
From what I have heard, the Rogue ST Max deal is decent but may not be around for long.
If I buy them and use them for my lessons and going forward, then I should hopefully be set for a few years.

Wish me luck when it comes to the woods

I use Rogue ST Max irons and they are rocket launchers for me. They smashed everything else out the park in the fitting I had last year. And only cost me £600 for a set. Maybe that's just me though, I think the shafts are well-suited to me.

 

[LizAig]

Spend your money on coaching initially as your swing and swing speed will both change and that will influence your choice of clubs. Also after lessons you’ll have a better idea of how far you hit each of your current clubs and therefore know what clubs you need beyond irons in your set. After a few sessions your coach will have a better idea of your posture and swing and what club length will suit you. My ex was 6ft 7 and played off 3 with regular length clubs

 

[Jigger]

I’m taller than the OP and have absolutely no problem whatsoever with club fitting. Why is he in a tough place?

I was meaning with package sets or stock off the shelf stuff. Apologies if not clear. Busy day yesterday

 

[oleinone]

Am I alone in wondering how this one ended up?

 

[EdGlassonbury]

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Beginner Golf Clubs​

A bit late to the party but a blog that I wrote regarding purchasing beginner golf clubs. May come in handy to someone at some stage.

Choosing Your First Golf Clubs​

Embarking on the hunt for your initial set of golf clubs is an endeavor fraught with choices. Navigate this pivotal junction by prioritising a balance of function and comfort. Golf clubs that resonate with your natural stance and swing will not only enhance your play but instil confidence as you learn the nuances of the game.


As a someone new to the golf course, the temptation is to emulate professionals with advanced-level clubs. Opt instead for a "game-improvement" set, designed to be forgiving on errant shots and enhance your developing skills. These clubs typically boast a larger sweet spot and perimeter weighting, qualities that are instrumental in fostering a positive and progressive golfing experience.

Importance of Club Composition​

Club composition is crucial for budding golfers—dictating the ease and progression of their burgeoning skills.

A golf club's soul resides in its materials; engineered for performance, enhanced by craftsmanship, and tempered by technology.

A suitable selection accounts for shaft flexibility, clubhead design, and weighting, which together, dictate the club's interaction with the ball, propagating consistency and control.


Recognising the synergy between material technologies and player capability—where science meets technique—can pivotally influence one's growth and enjoyment in the game.

Understanding Club Types and Uses​

When beginning one's golf journey, it's paramount to comprehend the function and application of varied club types within a set.


Drivers are designed for maximum distance from the tee.


Irons range in numbers, typically from 3 to 9, and are employed for a variety of shots based on their loft angles and lengths. A higher numbered iron, like an 8 or 9, is used when the ball is closer to the green.


The putter is a specialised club with the sole intention of rolling the ball along the green into the hole. Mastery of this club is crucial, as putting skill significantly impacts one's score. Conversely, wedges serve for precision and control around the green, helping extricate the ball from bunkers or rough with greater finesse.


Understanding the purpose of each club is as crucial as any technical swing component. Clubs like the hybrid meld the best traits of woods and irons for versatility. Being proficient in knowing when to use a club's strengths—be it a driver's reach, an iron's precision, a wedge's agility, or a putter's delicate touch—is fundamental to advancing one's game. Amidst these choices, the fairway wood fills the gap between the powerful driver and the versatile irons, providing an option for long-distance shots off the fairway.

Ladies' vs Men's Clubs: What's the Difference?​

Ladies' golf clubs tend to be lighter and shorter than men's, considering the differences in stature and strength. The flex of the shaft and the design of the clubhead differ to optimise the performance based on physiological divergences.


Manufacturers design ladies' clubs with softer shaft flex to accommodate typically lower swing speeds. The grips are also smaller in circumference.


A key distinction lies within the clubhead: ladies' clubs generally have higher loft angles, creating a greater trajectory and assisting in lift. This compensates for lower clubhead speeds, enabling the ball to travel farther despite gentler swings. Moreover, subtle variances in weight distribution augment the capacity to square the clubface at impact.


Men's golf clubs, by contrast, are crafted with stiffer shafts and larger grip sizes to align with higher swing speeds and larger physical stature. The clubheads have lower loft angles, assuming a more penetrating ball flight suitable for vigorous swings. Whether a beginner opts for a unisex set or a gender-specific collection is contingent on their natural swing dynamics, comfort levels, and individual physical attributes. It is not uncommon for men to select "ladies" for a more suitable flex, or for women to prefer men's clubs for the additional weight and shaft stiffness.

Top Picks for Men: Beginner Golf Clubs​

For an auspicious debut in the gentleman's game, the Lynx starter sets stand out with affable forgiveness and serene playability. Balancing cost with quality, they provide an excellent springboard for novices to learn and develop their skills.


Treading the fairway with Ben Sayers clubs offers a blend of modern technology and traditional aesthetics. Their forgiving nature and system of weighted clubheads deliver a robust foundation for aspiring golfers to build upon, enhancing their game round after round.


Finally, the Master GX1 series exemplifies a sterling choice for novices desirous of immediate comfort and seamless transition from range to course, assimilating innovation with time-honoured design.

Lynx Starter Sets for Men​

For gentlemen embarking on their golfing journey, Lynx Golf offers comprehensive starter sets designed with progression in mind.

1. Lynx Starter Golf Set: A balanced selection, providing a forgiving driver, versatile irons, and a stable putter.
2. Lynx Black Cat series: Features a more advanced technology setup aimed at enhancing distance and control.Lynx sets are typically lauded for their approachable price point, paired with reliability and performance.

Incorporating a harmonious mix of playability and aesthetic appeal, Lynx sets aim to instil confidence in beginners.

Masters GX1 Clubs for Premium Quality​

Elevate your game with Masters GX1 clubs.


The Masters GX1 series presents a high-grade choice for newcomers to the sport. These clubs affirm the commitment to quality and performance necessary for beginners, combining durability with a touch of sophistication in their construction. Remarkably, GX1 clubs offer a blend of forgiveness and playability unmatched in many entry-level options.


Experience an investment worth its value.


The series appeals to those seeking premium quality - it sets a precedent in its category. By offering graphite or steel shaft options, the GX1 gives beginners the flexibility to choose based on their individual swing and preferences – a custom-like experience in an off-the-shelf package.


Become versed in golf with Masters GX1's sophisticated engineering.


The GX1 sets a benchmark for beginner golf initiatives, equipped with technologically progressive features that align with prevalent golfing requirements. Specifically designed for the evolving 2023 golfer, these clubs balance innovative technology with the necessary forgiveness that caters to the developmental curve of new players.

Orka Golf's CTi SF for Customisation​

Orka Golf's CTi SF series epitomises personalisation in club design, allowing each golfer, irrespective of their skill level, to find a bespoke fitting solution for their game.


Achieving an optimal fit is critical for game development.


Consequently, CTi SF clubs are meticulously crafted with adjustability foremost, ensuring a tailored performance for individual swing characteristics.


High-quality components are utilised to enhance personalisation, supporting players' progression with bespoke club configurations.


For beginners keen on investing in clubs that grow with their game, the CTi SF series offers adjustable elements that can evolve alongside their improving skills and techniques.


Orka Golf's commitment to custom fitting is evident, promising a solution for players seeking a tailored golfing experience from the outset.


Ultimately, the essence of Orka Golf's CTi SF series is to provide a custom fit to every golfer. Superior adjustability options ensure a personal and unique club experience.

Women's Golf Sets: Starting with Confidence​

Embarking on the golfing journey can be fraught with myriad choices, particularly in the domain of equipment. For women taking their initial steps on the fairway, it is paramount to select clubs with considerations towards physical dynamics and swing style. The Longridge Vector+ ladies starter set is meticulously crafted to instill confidence. It provides a comprehensive selection of clubs designed for both forgiveness and wieldiness, thus enabling a gentler introduction into the sport while also allowing room for growth as proficiency develops. This tailored approach ensures that female golfers have access to quality equipment, fostering an empowering start in the enthralling world of golf.

Longridge Vector+ Ladies Package​

The Longridge Vector+ Ladies Package offers a welcoming entry point for women stepping onto the course. It's a thoughtful composition of ease and performance, tailored to encourage the novice golfer.


This set comes complete with a range of clubs to cover all aspects of the game, designed specifically for female players. The woods are lightweight and offer a large sweet spot for increased forgiveness, while the irons feature a cavity back design, enhancing the ease with which solid contact with the ball can be achieved. Each club in this set is crafted to maximise playability, contributing to game improvement from the very start.


Moreover, the package also includes a putter with a balanced design, promoting a steady and accurate stroke on the greens. Coupled with a durable, stylish cart bag that provides ample storage for all golfing needs, the Longridge Vector+ set is well-suited to deliver a satisfying experience on the course.


The investment in a Longridge Vector+ Ladies Package signifies a commitment to cultivating a nuanced understanding of the game. With lightweight graphite shafts to match the strength and swing speeds typical of female golfers, this set makes the sport more accessible and enjoyable. Such attentiveness to details often overlooked by novices can lead to a more profound appreciation and a more solid foundation for developing their skills further.

Tailoring Lynx Sets to Women Golfers​

Lynx recognises the unique requirements of women golfers, offering a Ladies starter set clubs that are tailored to their game.

1. Specially Weighted Clubs: Designed with lighter club heads to suit the typically lower swing speeds found in women's games, enhancing manoeuvrability and control.
2. Shorter Shaft Lengths: The sets feature adjusted shaft lengths proportionate to the average woman's height, improving the ease of swing and accuracy.
3. Flexible Shafts: Graphite shafts with higher flexibility help to maximise distance, even with softer swings.
4. Grip Size and Comfort: Grips are sized to fit more comfortably in smaller hands for a secure hold throughout the swing.
5. Aesthetics and Design: Options are often presented with aesthetics in mind, including color schemes and finishes that appeal to women golfers.These design choices optimise the physical dynamics of women's golf.

Emphasis is placed on forging a strong synthesis between a female golfer's physique and her equipment.


By refining the interaction with the club, Lynx enriches the overall golfing experience for women, encouraging skill progression and enjoyment.

Factors Influencing Golf Club Selection​

Selecting the most appropriate golf clubs involves careful consideration of one’s skill level, goals, physique, and available budget.


It is paramount to choose clubs that match the golfer's height, swing speed, and strength, enhancing playability and fostering development within the sport. This is particularly crucial for beginners embarking on their golfing journey.


Grip size, shaft flex, clubhead design, and set composition are instrumental in tailoring a set to individual needs and preferences.

Assessing Your Swing​

Understanding your swing is the crux of selecting the right golf clubs. Your swing characteristics will dictate the flex, length, and weight of the clubs you should be aiming for, ensuring a harmonious match.


Your swing tempo sets the pace for your game. A slower swing speed demands increased flex in the shaft.


A comprehensive swing analysis brings to light your unique swing path, angle of attack, and ball flight tendencies. Clubs can then be chosen to promote balance, comfort, and consistency within these parameters.


In-depth scrutiny of your swing mechanics allows for a bespoke club fitting. Such an analysis should cater to your stance, swing plane mechanics, and the kinetic chain throughout your swing. Clubs are then fine-tuned for the golfer, affirming the transition from novice to proficient golfer. Assessing these nuances, from grip to follow-through, and selecting equipment to support them elevates the level of play.

Budget Considerations for New Golfers​

Navigating the initial financial investment in golf necessitates a judicious approach to club selection.

• Assess your anticipated frequency of play and decide if you're looking for durability or the best entry point cost-wise.
• Consider last season's models for value without compromising on quality.
• Be mindful of the potential resale value of your clubs should you choose to upgrade as you progress.
• Always authenticate the source when opting for second-hand clubs to avoid counterfeit merchandise.

Investing wisely with an eye on the future can mitigate excessive initial outlay.


Prioritising quality within your budget will pay dividends in the long-term enjoyment and development of your game.

 

[rudebhoy]

I use Rogue ST Max irons and they are rocket launchers for me. They smashed everything else out the park in the fitting I had last year. And only cost me £600 for a set. Maybe that's just me though, I think the shafts are well-suited to me.

I've got a couple of Callaway Rogue ST Max OS hybrids, they are very easy to hit, and would suit a beginner. I'd imagine the irons are much the same. If you can get custom fit for those for less than £500, that could be a great option for you.