As a beginner to the game of golf, you’ll want to purchase all the right equipment – but it’s key that you don’t waste your money. You need to buy equipment that allows you to ease your way into the game, rather than investing in all the best stuff right away. In this article, we’re going to suggest the right clubs to help with the development of your game.

Starting out

If you are a complete beginner, try out with borrowed, or used, clubs before you commit to purchasing your own set. That way you can get a feel for how the club sits in your hand and how it works with your swing. Once you commit to playing more often, you’ll need to buy your own set of clubs.

Buying a set

At this stage, you won’t need to buy top brand names or custom-fitted clubs: these are only suited to those who are really committed to playing the game. Investing in these costly clubs when you’re not sure if you’re going to continue could prove to be a huge waste of money. Visit your local golf store and purchase a basic beginner’s set of clubs. Make sure this includes a driver, a 3-wood, odd-numbered irons, a putter and a sand wedge. You’ll also need a bag to carry them in! Ask if you’re unsure whether to opt for steel or graphite-shafted clubs. We’d recommend sticking with steel shafted clubs to start with.

Once you’ve been playing the game for a year or so, you can purchase a full set of clubs as you look to make further improvements in your game. Look at buying specialty clubs, such as 60-degree lob wedges or hybrids. These combine irons and woods and offer you greater flexibility with your shot selection: remember, you’re only allowed 14 clubs in your bag at any one time!

Consider the putter

Many people prioritize drivers, woods or irons when buying golf clubs, but you should really be looking at purchasing a putter that you’re 100% happy with. After all, if you’re hoping to get to a decent level, you’ll be taking around 50% of your shots on the green, with a putter. For a better idea of which putter you should buy, consult this putter buying guide which takes you through all the different types of putter, including mallet, blade and peripheral weighted.

Buy clubs that match your height and stance

Stand up straight, loosen your hands and measure the distance between the ground and your wrist. When added to your height, this measurement will help you find which size of club you will need. You’ll also need to consider your hand size for the grip of the clubs. Clearly, if you have smaller hands, you’ll need a smaller grip than if you were a larger golfer.

Now that you know the steps to take when it comes to choosing the right golf clubs, you can get yourself a set and get out on the course!