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As a beginning golfer, you want to make sure that the game is both enjoyable and educational. This all starts with having the right tools for what you are trying to accomplish. Several golf club manufactures have their own spin on how the golf club should look and feel. This guide will help you understand the most important points to consider.

The Beginning

A golf club set, when on the course, can consist of up to 14 clubs. Each player will need his own set of clubs. To begin, you may want to rent clubs from the course--if they are available--in order to see if you enjoy playing the game. Once you have played a few times, you will then be ready for your own set.

Types

There are three types of clubs. There can be many different styles within each type.
The three types of clubs are metal (or wood) woods, irons and putters.

Clubs are categorized by a numeric system. Woods can range from 1 to 11 or even 12. The most common numbers, though, are 1,3 and 5. Irons can range from 1 to 14, with the 10 and higher numbers usually called wedges.

The putter is the only club that is not numbered, but it also is the only club that will have extreme differences in the size and shapes that are available. The other clubs are fairly uniform in their look.

Considerations

You will need to keep a few things in mind as you shop for clubs. First, the clubs are different because of what is called loft. The loft of the club will determine the distance that the golf ball will travel when you hit it. As a beginner you will want clubs that have a higher loft, because this will allow for more back spin on the ball and less side spin so that the ball does not curve as much when hit.

A typical beginner set would include a 1 wood (called a driver), a 3 wood and a 5 wood. The driver should be between 9 and 11 degrees in loft. The 3 and 5 woods probably won't have their lofts listed on the club itself.

You will want a 4 or 5 iron as the longest Iron in your bag. Getting a 1, 2 or 3 iron can happen later, once you get used to the game a little more.

There will be different types of shafts for you to choose from. As a beginner, steel shafts will allow you to control the golf club more during the swing; a composite shaft might have a little too much variance. From there, getting fitted for your proper lie angle and loft will be handled by a club-fitting professional. If you are not able to work with a fitting professional, your local golf store or clubhouse shop will have people on hand who can help you.

Benefits

You do not have to buy a set of golf clubs "off the rack." Buying a stock set of clubs can actually cause you more harm than good. Getting a set of fitted golf clubs is not as expensive as it once was and will allow you to swing the clubs the way you need to--based on your body dimensions--and will be a more enjoyable experience for you.

Going to a golf store or even a course clubhouse will allow you to talk with a pro or person who knows the different types of clubs available and what would be recommended for a beginner based on the latest technology.

Misconceptions

There are always misconceptions about golf clubs. First, you need to know that just because you are a beginner; it does not mean that you should avoid buying the best name brands available. If you feel like you are going to be playing a lot of golf, investing into a better brand will mean a better return on your investment. Plus, as you improve you will already have quality clubs. If you feel like you are not going to be playing very much, buying something a little more affordable might be better choice.

Always stay within a specific budget when shopping for golf clubs because as the technology changes, the prices can change as well. The price of golf clubs is often a source of the misconceptions about the game. A beginner set of golf clubs could cost as little as $100 to $150. As you move into the more advanced technologies, you may spend $300 or $400 just on a driver! On average, however, a typical set of clubs that includes three woods, nine irons and a putter will be priced between $200 and $500. Add in a bag and you can have a set of clubs that will give you many years of enjoyment in the game.

Expert Insight

Purchasing a new set of golf clubs is exciting. You will have the opportunity to look at different brands and different styles, which can be somewhat overwhelming. Take your time when choosing a new set of clubs. Ask to hit the different types of clubs on the driving range or in an indoor facility. Plan on going back at least three or four times to see how they feel on different days and if anything new will change your decision. Being fitted for clubs will help build your game and provide a better experience when playing.