Equipment - Getting Started
Golf Equipment: What You Actually Need to Get Started
If you’re thinking of taking up golf, the idea of buying all the gear can be overwhelming. How many clubs do you need? How much should you spend? What kind of shafts should you get? It’s a lot to take in.
I get it. I once walked into a fishing tackle shop for a simple rod and was completely blown away—rods, reels of all sizes, hooks, lures... the works. The same goes for buying a road bike. So trust me, I know how you feel!
Advice for Beginners
Head down to your local golf course and introduce yourself to the PGA pro. They’ll help you figure out what you actually need. One thing I will say—you do NOT need brand-new clubs. Also, steer clear of cheap starter sets. Keep an eye out for beginner clinics, too—they're a great way to meet other golfers.
Side Note:
Whatever you do, don’t use your Grandpa’s old Slazengers with tiny iron heads and wooden drivers. I see this a lot in New Zealand. The game has moved on since 1979, and you’re only making life harder for yourself. Unless you fancy wearing a tweed jacket and plus fours, put them back in the shed—they’re about as useful as a chocolate teapot!
Buying Second-Hand: A Smart Move
A great way to get started is by picking up a decent second-hand set. Check eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or your local golf shop. You can also build your set gradually as you improve.
I did a quick five-minute experiment on eBay and found the following:
Ping G15 Irons (5-SW, 8 clubs) – £130
Ping G15 21-degree Hybrid – £40
Ping G20 5 Wood – £40
Ping G30 Tec Driver – £25
Odyssey Rossie 2 Putter – £25
Ping Stand Bag – £36
Total: £256 (~$500 NZD, $280 USD)
Yes, these clubs may be 10+ years old, but they’re more than good enough to get started. In their prime, this set would have been worth over £2500. Technology has improved slightly since then, but at your level, the difference is hardly noticeable.
Pro Tip: Ask the seller for pictures of the grips and clubheads to check their condition. When they arrive, give the grips a good scrub with hot soapy water—it’ll breathe new life into them.
Essential Clubs to Start With
When you’re new to golf, you don’t need all 14 clubs. Here’s a solid setup:
For Men:
Driver
Hybrid or 5-Wood
6, 7, 8, 9 Irons
Pitching Wedge (PW)
Sand Wedge (SW)
Putter
(Total: 9 Clubs)
For Ladies:
Driver
5-Wood
5 Hybrid
7, 8, 9 Irons
Pitching Wedge (PW)
Sand Wedge (SW)
Putter
(Total: 9 Clubs)
Choosing the Right Shafts
Regular Swing Speeds:
Steel shafts in irons are the standard for most golfers, including elite players.
Graphite shafts are an option, particularly for those with joint issues (arthritis, elbow pain) as they reduce vibrations.
Faster Swing Speeds:
Look for stiff flex shafts to help with control.
These are usually slightly heavier, but some graphite options are available too.
Slower Swing Speeds (Ladies & Seniors):
Graphite shafts are highly recommended—they’re lighter and help generate more clubhead speed.
Ladies' Flex shafts have a lower kick point to launch the ball higher.
Seniors should look for Senior Flex shafts, which are designed to be easier to swing.
Other Essentials
Shoes:
Comfort, stability, and staying dry are key. The money you saved on clubs? Invest a little in FootJoy shoes—arguably the best in the business, with options for men, women, and juniors.
Gloves, Tees & Balls:
You don’t need to splash out on a dozen Pro V1s yet. Grab some lake balls—just make sure they’re cut-free and round.
Golf Bag:
Carry Bag – If you want to walk and burn some extra calories.
Cart Bag – If you’ll be using a trolley or golf cart, this is the way to go.
Final Thoughts
Getting into golf doesn’t have to break the bank. If you shop smart, you can build a solid setup without overspending. And when you inevitably get hooked, you can gradually upgrade over time—often selling your used clubs for close to what you paid.
If you have any questions about gear, feel free to reach out!
Comments
Post a Comment