This article discusses the two main pieces of equipment that a golfer will use, namely clubs and balls. There is a great deal of difference in this equipment and selecting the right pieces for your golf game is very important.
Golf balls are marketed very aggressively. You should, however, be mindful of the fact that they come in only three types. One-piece, two-piece and three-piece. One-piece balls are very low quality and are usually used on driving ranges. It is recommended that you use a two-piece ball as a beginner. Three-piece balls are really only used by professional golfers playing on the Tour. Three piece balls are covered in a very expensive, high-performance urethane elastomer. They give the pros an extra degree of control but not something you will notice as a beginner. What you need is a reliable, durable golf ball and the surlyn two-piece ball is perfect. These balls have a harder cover which makes them last longer unless you are particularly heavy handed with them. They have a lower spin-rate (which equates to less control for the pros) which will be easier for you to control. In terms of compression, there is not much practical difference between the compressions, just pick one that feels best for you.
In terms of clubs, if you are new to the game and have been playing with rented clubs, consider buying a set of interim clubs. You will be still learning a lot about your game and it's perhaps not the best time to splash a lot of cash on clubs. Look at your local course to see if anyone is selling clubs, look in garage sales and online. You should try and get a whole different variety: steel shafts, graphite, forged clubs, big-headed clubs etc. The key is to experiment so that when you have got some experience under your belt you can buy a set of clubs that is perfect for your needs.
When you are ready to purchase your set of clubs, there are some things worth bearing in mind:
The Grip. It is very important that the grips on your clubs are the right size. If they are too thin, you will introduce too much hand-action in your swing. Conversely if the grip is too thick, your hand motion will be too restricted. The perfect grip as a rule will allow the middle finger on the left hand to just touch the thumb pad.
The Shaft. The shaft depends on your body type. The taller you are the longer the shaft of the club will need to be. It will also need to be stiffer.
Club head. If you are a beginner, try slightly larger heads, they are more forgiving.
Irons. Forged muscle-backed irons are good for very precise players. By precise, I mean in terms of the impact of the club face on the golf ball. For beginners, you should probably go for a cavity-backed irons.
Hopefully this has provided food for thought for when you come to buy balls and clubs.
