Are you getting ready to start playing golf for the first time? Make sure you keep reading below to learn all the equipment you’ll need!
At long last, you’re getting into the wonderful game of golf. But, being as you’re a newbie, you’re not quite equipped to get through a round. That’s why you’re here; you’re in need of some information.
Specifically, you need to know about the equipment that’s required for playing golf. Well, ask and ‘ye shall receive. Here’s everything you need.
Clubs
First and foremost, you need golf clubs. You can’t kick the ball down the fairway, after all. Now, you might be able to rent a set in the clubhouse, but if you think you’re going to play more than once, you’re advised to buy your own set.
There are plenty of low-cost golf club sets on the market, some for as little as $150. Your set should include, at the very least, a driver, a 3-wood, a 9-iron, an 8-iron, a 7-iron, a 6-iron, a 5-iron, a pitching wedge, a sand wedge, and a putter. Note, though, that you’re allowed to have up to 14 clubs at once; consider adding a lob wedge, a 4-iron, a 3-iron, and a 3-wood as well.
The more clubs you have, the more variation you’ll have on different shots. For instance, if you want more control on a specific hole, you can opt for a 3-wood or 5-wood as opposed to a driver.
A Golf Bag
You don’t want to carry all of those clubs in your hands. The better option is to put them in a golf bag. Again, you might be able to rent a golf bag at the clubhouse, but the better option is to buy a bag that you can use over and over again.
You don’t need anything special. As long as it feels comfortable on your back, it will suffice. That said, golf bags come with a number of features, from stand-up legs to extra pockets to double shoulder-straps and more; these can be very useful, and might suit your preferences.
Golf bags are available for as little as $50. The most expensive options can exceed thousands. Choose wisely.
Golf Balls
Obviously, you’re going to need golf balls as well. And as a new player who’s more prone to hitting balls where they’re not supposed to go, you’re bound to lose a good portion of the ones you bring. So, whether you find them in water hazards or the woods, or have them shipped new directly to your doorstep, make sure you have plenty on hand.
Note, as a new player, you’ll be best off with softer golf balls. Though softer balls don’t go quite as far as harder balls, they’re much easier to control. Believe us: for a beginner, it’s much more difficult to control the ball than it is to put distance on the ball.
Some viable options include the Callaway Supersoft, the TaylorMade Burner, and the Srixon Soft Feel. But in truth, for your first round, any ball will do.
Golf Shoes
At most courses, you don’t need to wear actual golf shoes. Tennis shoes are acceptable and will serve you fine. However, if you want to get the most out of your swing, you’re advised to wear specialized golf shoes.
Golf shoes possess rubber spikes that dig into the ground and provide additional grip. They’re particularly beneficial in wet conditions, as they help you keep your feet and prevent you from slipping.
You can find a nice pair of golf shoes for around $60. The nicest pairs run between $150 and $200.
Golf Towel
It’s also a good idea to have a golf towel on hand. What with the dew on the ground and humidity in the air, your hands can get pretty slippery throughout the round. You want to be sure that you’re able to hold onto your club.
Note, most golf towels are equipped to attach to golf bags. So, when buying your towel, look for one with a metal ring in it. This is the hole through which the attachment goes.
Sunblocking Accessories
There’s a reasonably good chance that the sun will be shining during your round. And with the average round taking between 4 and 5 hours, you’re almost sure to get substantial sun exposure. For this reason, you’re advised to take some sun blocking accessories.
Not only should you apply sunblock itself, but you should also wear a brimmed hat and glasses. It’s also a good idea to wear a sleeved shirt.
Ball Marker
Once you get your ball on the green amongst everyone else’s balls, you’re going to take turns putting. In order for this to happen, you’ll, in some cases, need to mark the spot of your ball so that it’s not in the way of others’ balls.
To facilitate this, you’ll need a ball marker. A ball marker is a coin-like object that you’ll need to carry in your pocket for the duration of your round. If you’re desperate, you can even use a coin (like a nickel or a quarter).
A Golf GPS Program
Though you don’t absolutely need one, you might have a little more fun on the course by making use of a golf GPS program. These programs are just one of the many different types of golf game apps available. They help you by recording your shots, by recommending clubs, and by gauging current conditions.
Over time, a GPS program can go a long way in improving your golf game. So, while you might not need one during your first round, you should consider adding one to your repertoire sooner rather than later.
Playing Golf Requires a Quite a Bit of Equipment
When compared to playing other sports, playing golf requires quite a bit of equipment. But as long as you have the above-reviewed items in your possession, you should have no trouble making it through your first round.
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