Starting your golf journey is an exciting adventure packed with new challenges and rewarding moments. To make sure you get off to a great start, having the right gear is super important. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or someone looking to dive deeper into the game, this guide will help you figure out what you really need and what nice extras can make your golfing experience even better.
Gear Guide Skip Ahead:
Must Haves:
1. Golf Clubs
2. Golf Bag
3. Golf Balls
4. Tees
5. Ball Marker
6. Towel
7. Glove
8. Polo
Nice to Haves:
9. Range Finder/GPS Watch
10. Wire Brush
11. Divot Tool
12. Golf Shoes
13. Sun Protection/Hydration
Must-Haves for Every Golfer
1. Golf Clubs
Your golf clubs are your primary tools on the course. A basic set should include a driver, fairway woods, irons, wedges, and a putter. For beginners, a half-set (which usually includes a driver, a few irons, and a putter) is often enough to get started. Know that a full set contains 14 clubs, but you can enjoy the game with only 5-7 to start!
$$ Saver: Some of your friends may have old golf club sets or individual clubs laying around. Borrowing golf clubs or renting clubs from a course is always an option. Pro shops also sometimes sell used equipment that can be helpful to piece together a set.
2. Golf Bag
A good golf bag is essential for carrying your clubs and other gear. There are stand bags, cart bags, and carry bags, each designed for different needs. A stand bag is versatile and convenient for walking the course, while a cart bag is perfect if you prefer using a golf cart. Look for a bag with ample pockets and comfortable straps.
$$ Saver: For those that don’t want to pay for a brand new bag, a lot of local thrift shops have used golf bags in stock.
3. Golf Balls
Picking the right golf balls can make a big difference. As a beginner, start with affordable, durable balls since you might lose a few. As you get better, you can try different balls that offer more control, spin, and distance.
$$ Saver: Golfers lose golf balls on the course all the time. If you find some while playing a round, they are perfect to reuse for beginner golfers. Some golf courses and stores will sell used balls in bulk for cheap.
4. Tees
Tees might be small, but they’re super important. They make it a lot easier to get your ball off the ground at the start of each hole. They come in different heights, so having a variety of tees can be useful for different clubs and playing conditions. Wooden or plastic tees are the most common, and both work well, but plastic (while less eco-friendly) will definitely last longer.
$$ Saver: On par 3 holes you can use abandoned tees left at the tee box.
5. Ball Marker
A ball marker is handy for marking where your ball is on the green. This is especially useful during putting when you need to move your ball to clean it or get it out of another player’s way. You can find markers in all sorts of designs, so pick one that you like.
$$ Saver: You can use loose change you have lying around as a ball marker.
6. Towel
A towel is a multi-purpose tool on the golf course. Use it to keep your clubs and balls clean, wipe sweat, or dry your hands. Attach it to your bag for easy access. Microfiber towels are particularly effective for cleaning equipment and are quick-drying.
Bonus tip: dirty clubs or balls can affect your score - you should never play with a dirty ball or hit a shot with a dirty club as it will change the trajectory/flight of the ball. Get into the habit of regularly cleaning your clubs between shots and your ball before putting/between holes.
$$ Saver: Towels from home are perfectly acceptable to use if you don’t want to want to buy a “golf towel”.
7. Golf Glove
A golf glove provides better grip and prevents blisters. Typically worn on the lead hand (left hand for right-handed players and vice versa), a good glove fits snugly without being too tight. Look for gloves made of breathable material to ensure comfort. Note, gloves do need to be replaced periodically from normal wear and tear. Most golfers keep at least a couple in their bag in case one starts to get too sweaty or wet from rain.
8. Golf Polo / Sweater
Wearing a golf polo while golfing is important for complying with dress codes, ensuring comfort and mobility, while maintaining a professional appearance. Keeping an extra polo in your golf bag can be handy for those who sweat more during hot summer rounds or if the polo you are wearing gets dirty. Additionally, for rounds where the weather fluctuates, it is a smart idea to keep a sweater nearby.
Nice-to-Haves to Enhance Your Golf Experience
9. Range Finder/GPS Watch
A rangefinder or GPS watch can really up your game by giving you accurate distance measurements to the pin, hazards, and other key points. These gadgets help you choose the right club and plan your shots better, which is great for improving your scores. Most golf courses will have sprinkler heads with rough estimates to the center of the green. Along with the sprinkler heads you can use the color of the flagsticks to help with your yardages. Red flags typically indicate a front pin location, White meaning the middle of the green and Blue in the back.
$$ Saver: There are many apps available that offer free golf course GPS including the USGA Mobile GHIN app (Course maps & GPS) for NCGA members.
10. Wire Brush
A wire brush is great for keeping your club faces clean from dirt and grass. A clean club face helps with accuracy and distance. Many golfers keep a wire brush attached to their bag for easy access.
$$ Saver: You can also use a Tee and your dampened golf towel in place of a wire brush.
11. Divot Tool
A divot tool is used to repair marks on the green caused by your ball landing or your club making contact with the turf. Using a divot tool helps maintain the quality of the greens and shows good etiquette. It’s a small tool that makes a big difference in course maintenance. Check out our Golf Etiquette 101 blog for more on Respecting the Course: Maintenance and Care.
$$ Saver: You can use a tee in place of a divot tool.
12. Golf Shoes
Golf shoes provide better grip and stability during your swing, especially on wet or uneven terrain. They are designed to be comfortable for walking long distances and often come with soft spikes or specialized soles. While not essential for beginners, golf shoes can enhance your performance and comfort on the course.
$$ Saver: Shoes with adequate traction/grip are great to use when starting golf.
13. Sun Protection/Hydration
When golfing, safeguarding your health through sun protection and proper hydration is essential. Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to skin damage and dehydration, so applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is critical. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can protect your face and eyes from harmful UV rays, while using an umbrella offers additional shade. Staying hydrated is vital to maintain energy and focus, so carrying a water bottle and drinking fluids regularly is recommended. These measures not only enhance comfort but also prevent heat-related illnesses, ensuring a safe and enjoyable golfing experience.
$$ Saver: Be sure to keep a bottle of sunscreen in your golf bag and reapply it throughout the round. This will help prevent heat-related injuries, which not only saves you money but also ensures a safe and enjoyable golfing experience.
Starting your golf journey with the right equipment can make a significant difference in your experience and performance. By focusing on the must-haves, you’ll be well-equipped to hit the course with confidence. As you progress, incorporating some of the nice-to-haves can further enhance your game and enjoyment. Happy golfing!
GET INTO GOLF
Beginner Golf Guide
Interested in golf, but have more questions than answers? We're here to help! Check out our Get Into Golf Guide to learn how to overcome common golf challenges! From tackling intimidation to finding affordable options, we help demystify golf for beginners.