Golf can seem overwhelming when you’re new to the game. It feels like every shop, website and seasoned golfer is pushing another gadget or club you “absolutely must have.” The truth? Beginners don’t need all the gear they’re being sold. Let’s break down exactly what’s essential and what’s not.
Clubs
The Rules of Golf state that players can carry 14 golf clubs in their bag. For beginners, that number isn’t necessary. Most clubs will travel about the same distance until you start hitting the center of the face consistently.
A custom fitting for new golf clubs is reasonable but premium upgrades are probably not worth it. Find out what specifications you need for your game and use that information to help find great used equipment or last year’s models.
It’s not that beginners don’t need premium equipment; your golf swing and abilities change quickly (and often) when you are a new player.
What You Need:
Driver: Choose a forgiving driver with a higher loft (10.5-12 degrees). Fairway Wood or Hybrid: One reliable wood or hybrid (around 18-21 degrees). Irons: Stick to a simple set, ideally 5-iron through pitching wedge or even fewer irons. Wedge: A versatile sand wedge (54-56 degrees). Putter
Clothing and shoes
Golf course dress codes vary but, in most cases, a tucked-in collared polo and nice shorts/pants (no jeans) will meet the requirements.
What You Need:
Comfortable, moisture-wicking polo shirt Pants or shorts that allow free movement A hat and sunglasses for sun protection Weather-appropriate gear (rain jacket, warm layers if needed) An affordable pair of golf shoes that still performs like the Skechers Go Golf Flight
Gear and accessories
Here’s the category where most beginners start to lose track of their budget. It’s very easy to get lost in the accessories category because there are so many. In reality, there are only a few things you need.
What You Need:
Golf balls – something from this list could be good Tees and ball markers Glove (helps with grip and prevents blisters) A basic golf bag like the Maxfli Honors that works for walking or riding A towel to wipe off your clubs
Technology
Golf technology has come a long way, and while things like swing trainers and launch monitors can eventually help you improve your game, in the beginning, a simple GPS app or a basic rangefinder to measure distances is all you really need.
The Shot Scope Pro L2 was the best value rangefinder of 2024, and it’s on sale for $129.
What to avoid
While there’s a list a mile long of the things you don’t really need as a beginner here are some of the most obvious ones:
| Avoid This | Why It’s Not Helpful Yet | Try This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Single-use training aids | Narrow in purpose and often confusing without context | Alignment sticks – inexpensive, versatile for setup, swing path, and more |
| Premium spiked golf shoes | Built for traction at high swing speeds – overkill for new players | Comfortable spikeless shoes – stable enough and easier to wear casually |
| Custom driver shafts | High cost, low benefit until your swing is more repeatable | Stock shaft (regular or senior flex) – more forgiving and affordable |
| Blade-style irons | Inappropriate for beginners who are still working on basic mechanics | Game improvement irons – larger sweet spot, easier to launch |
| Advanced GPS or launch tech | Information overload for beginners still working on basic mechanics | Free GPS phone app – simple front/middle/back distances are enough |
| Tour bags or large cart bags | Heavy, bulky, not beginner-friendly | Lightweight stand bag – easy to carry and has all the storage you need |
Final thoughts
Golf can quickly become expensive if you chase every new club and gadget. Start simple, learn the basics and add equipment as your skills and knowledge grow. Remember, your initial focus should be enjoying the game and learning the basics, not accumulating gear.
If you want specific recommendations on the best golf clubs for beginners, look at our guide here: Best Golf Clubs for Beginners.
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