Guide to Buying Good Starter and Intermediate Clubs
For someone just getting started in golf or with a casual interest in the game, expensive golf clubs are not necessary. It takes a certain level of proficiency before a golfer can appreciate expensive, high tech golf clubs. There are very good sets that include woods and irons for $250-$600. Unfortunately, there are also some very bad clubs in lower price ranges that can make the game impossibe for anyone. Here are some things you need to consider when buying good starter and intermediate golf clubs:
Always buy clubs that have stainless steel heads. Inexpensive clubs are made of a zinc oxide that look great in the store but do not hold up well. They tend to break and, because the metal is porous, dirt impregnates into the metal and the clubs cannot be cleaned. Zinc oxide clubs do not feel good when you hit them and often have irregular shaped heads.
Most stainless steel clubs in this category will have "Stainless Steel" printed on the clubhead. Just looking at a club, it is not always possible to distinguish between a stainless steel and zinc oxide finish. Avoid clubs that say "Stainless Alloy".
You will sometimes see clubs that have other metals like titanium, tungsten, and copper added to the clubhead. These cost more and probably are not worth the added expense. We suggest spending more money on a better shaft than an exotic clubhead.
Inexpensive graphite shafts might not be necessary. If you want to keep costs down and still have clubs that will perform well, purchase steel shafted clubs. Inexpensive graphite shafts are most times very inconsistent and can make the game impossibly difficult. A big risk purchasing a set of graphite shafted clubs that cost less than $400. Miles of Golf makes routinely exacting tests all of the clubs we sell to be sure they are up to our standards. We also only deal with companies with good warranty policies because graphite shafts tend to break more easily than steel shafts.
Try clubs before you purchase them. If you have played at all, you will notice a difference between clubs. You will especially notice a difference between graphite and steel shafted clubs. How these clubs "feel" and what flight the ball takes is an important consideration when selecting your clubs. If you have played very little, testing clubs may not be very helpful in making your selection.
Have the clubs fit for length. If you are particularly tall or short, you may require longer or shorter clubs. Clubs of improper length will make the game harder. More expensive clubs address other club fitting issues which become more important as you become a more proficient player.
Save money for instruction. Don't spend your entire golf budget on new clubs. Good golf requires a good understanding of the fundamentals of the game. The Kendall Academy of Golf at Miles of Golf can give you information on different options for instruction at the Academy.
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