When Do You Need New Clubs?

One of the biggest expenses golfers will face is the purchase of their new clubs or their first set of clubs.

There is a huge number of possibilities and making your choice becomes more difficult every year, with the technological advances and shaft innovations.

So what do you need to consider when you are purchasing your new weapons?

1 – Your budget

Setting your budget is crucial, as it means you will be limiting your choices, this doesn´t mean that you will not find suitable clubs, rather it means that you will not be able to purchase the most expensive clubs. But this does not mean you will losing out on the best or most advanced technology.

2 – Your level

Your current ability and your future goals should also be considered.

If you are playing of a higher handicap, but you see progression, lowering of handicap over a period of time, then you may benefit from purchasing a set of clubs that are aimed at the improving golfer, rather than a beginner.

If you are a low handicap golfer, you will need to decide whether you require more control or more distance from your clubs.

But remember to set a budget and do not go above that.

3 – Previous club preference

For many staying with the same brand is an absolute must, and I have never played any other irons than Mizuno. But more than the brand you should be willing to try both bladed and cavity backed irons. (With companies now offering hybrid sets you can mix and match to suit your game).

For those that have always played blades changing to a cavity back can be a huge change, that for some will give them added confidence.

4 – Custom Fitting

Custom fitting is all the rage with golf shops offering custom fitting as standard.

It is worth getting fitted for clubs, but be aware that you should still “feel” the golf club.

Many golfers I know have bought clubs based purely on the figures, being convinced by the sales rep that they are the best choice. (Because the numbers don´t lie!)

You should feel good with your new clubs.

Get fitted twice, especially if you have a handicap above 12.

5 – What clubs do you need to replace?

This may seem obvious, but many golfers will buy a new driver every year or two because they believe the advances in technology will improve their game. Others will buy a complete set.

You should look at your game and the areas that need improvement and then make the decision on which clubs you need to replace.

6 – Try before you buy

Again, an obvious thing to say. It is imperative that you try your clubs before you buy them. I would highly recommend that you try them against your old clubs and “see” the difference between old and new. But don´t just try once, go back and try a number of times.

When I purchased my last putter I visited 7 different professional shops and courses to try on different putting surfaces and to get a consistent feel for the putter before I returned to the first shop to purchase, as it was the local shop.

Never be pressured into purchasing a club, take your time to decide and make the correct decision.