Equipment
Clubs. Any set of decent clubs can help you play good golf. Matching them or having them fitted to the right length, lie, and swing weight is far more important than the brand.
Driver. Choose a driver for accuracy and consistency. Harvey Penick once said " The woods are full of long hitters." Nothing is more accurate than that statement. Put in play and the iron shots are easier, pins are closer and putts easier. A common golf quote started by accurate drivers long ago: "keep it in the short grass!".
Irons. Let the loft of the club do the work. Keep your hands in line with the club and resist the urge to "help" the ball up in the air. There is no need to help an airplane into the air so why do it with golf clubs? Go ahead and hit the ball and let the club do the work.
Golf Balls. So many choices so little time. My tip is this: The name on the ball does not mean much. The way it reacts is the deciding factor in what you choose. More importantly use the same kind all the time. Using the same balls will give you many benefits such as, consistent yardage, consistent feel, confidence to hit the ball the way you want to, and the same feel around the greens. Use the same ball (brand and type) and watch the game become fun!
Shoes. Dry is great, wet is bad. Golf is about fun and a good pair of shoes will help you enjoy many great days on the links. If there is one piece of equipment I recommend you splurge on, it is golf shoes! Fit, comfort, waterproof, spike type and quality workmanship are things to consider.
Clubs. The price of the clubs should be inversely proportional to the handicap. As a player gets better, better equipment may help lower the scores somewhat. For beginners any decent set of clubs, as long as it is a set, will hit the ball very well. The money for the expensive clubs would be better spent on lessons and then get the good stuff. If you want the good stuff then get it, just don't expect the clubs to make the swing.
Buying Clubs. Try them, try them and then try them some more. Clubs can be a significant investment in both time and money. Hit them until you know what you can do with them. Remember, the pro or the salesperson is out to make a sale so use that to hit as many as you want before deciding. Leaving without a purchase happens all the time and is not a bad thing to do. If you love the clubs and can not live without them, then disregard everything mentioned above! Have fun figuring out which ones are for you. Just another fun way to enjoy the game of golf.
