How To Buy A Beginner Set Of Golf Clubs

For people just getting started in golf, finding the best set of golf clubs to start with can be a daunting task. As you begin shopping for golf clubs, you will see that there are numerous types and models available. If you are purchasing clubs for the first time, the following guide should help you navigate the process.

1. Which Types of Clubs Do I Need?

According to USGA rules, you are allowed to carry up to 14 clubs. (If you'd like to learn more about the purpose of each type of club, visit our general golf club buying guide which details each club type). A typical 14 club set consists of:

However, if you're new to the game, you don't really need to get all 14 clubs. Beginner golfers can start with a driver ($75 or less), an inexpensive iron set ($200 or less) and a putter ($60 or less). Add a basic bag ($60 or less), and you'd have enough to get started for under $400.

Set of 14 Clubs in a Golf Bag

Here is a set of 14 golf clubs in a golf bag.

We also offer complete club sets starting at $199.99. This is a great way to purchase your first set because complete club sets come with a golf bag, a driver, fairway wood(s), a set of irons, and usually a putter. Purchasing a complete club set allows a new golfer to have almost everything a player needs to hit the course.

2. What About the Shaft Options?

The shaft makeup (graphite or steel) and the shaft flex (amount of shaft bend during the swing) are the two most important factors in shaft selection.

When selecting driver or fairway wood shafts, you will be looking only at graphite shafts. When selecting irons you will have a choice between steel and graphite.

Graphite shafts are lighter and allow players to maximize swing speeds.

Graphite Shafts

Graphite shafts are typically more expensive because they are lighter and higher quality of material.

Steel shafts are heavier, but also more durable and less expensive. Players with a more deliberate swing speed (e.g. seniors, women, or juniors) will benefit from a graphite shaft with a lighter/softer flex.

Players with a faster swing speed will benefit from a regular or stiff shaft. (Please refer to our Primary Factor in Shaft Selection article for additional information).

3. How Much Should I Spend?

If you are unsure if golf is your game or if you plan on playing only occasionally (1-2 times a month), spend less on your initial purchase. Complete sets are often the best way to go in this case, as it gets you everything you need at a very modest price point.

However, if you have a strong interest and plan on practicing and playing on a regular basis (2-3 times a week), a moderate investment will let you get the most value for your money. If you were to piece together a solid set as outlined above, you could start off with a good set to keep you going for a while. But if you were to get a complete set, you may wear through them quicker and then be in the market again for more clubs.

4. Should I Buy New or Used Golf Clubs?

Whether shopping for the accomplished player or the beginner golfer, purchasing pre-owned golf equipment is the most cost-effective way to shop. Even though we offer a 30-Day playability guarantee for a number of our new products, purchasing pre-owned equipment at GlobalGolf is the best way to shop for following reasons:

  1. Buying used allows you to try the product and if you don't like it, you can return it within 14 days (following Global Golf's return guidelines)
  2. You can purchase a virtually new product at a pre-owned price by selecting a "Mint" condition club. This is a club that was previously purchased but was returned unused to the manufacturer. Any markings would be minimal shop wear
  3. If the condition of the product is not a high priority, you can purchase a club in "Very Good" or "Value" condition for a substantially discounted price
  4. We guarantee all of the pre-owned clubs we sell are genuine. In fact, we purchase the vast majority of our clubs from authorized retailers or directly from manufacturers.

If you still have questions about how to get started in golf, our staff of PGA Professionals would be happy to chat with you about it. Email your questions to pga@globalgolf.com or call them at 919-573-8657 and leverage their expertise to help you get started on the right path!