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Golf - What you need to play

16 Jul 08

Mike D'Auria - articlecity

Golf - What you need to play



I would like to offer some tips on equipment purchase and what would be required to get started playing golf. Beside club purchase, there are additional items necessary to prepare yourself for play. The next most obvious items are a golf bag and golf balls.

Golf bag

If you are purchasing a starter set of clubs many come with a golf bag included. If you like to walk and enjoy a little workout as you play there are carry bags, which are light weight and are slung over your shoulders. There are other bag options for you to choose from and I would suggest that you speak to the sales representative in your local pro shop or golf store and ask him to explain the different types and price range to best suit your needs.

Golf Balls

Golf balls can also vary dramatically in price - from about $9.99 /dozen to $45.99 for the best balls on the market - Titleist Pro V and Pro V1x.
As a beginner I would recommend that you buy the more economically priced balls. The difference in performance will be negligible and you will have a tendency to lose more balls as a novice so why waste money?
As you improve, you can always upgrade the type of ball that you use - I would recommend purchasing about two dozen balls to get started. There are also different compression golf balls made. 80, 90 and 100. The compression selected is directly proportionate to how fast you swing and your golf mechanics. I will not elaborate on this right now but an 80 or 90 compression ball should be more than adequate for now. If you have some power and a fairly quick swing, I would opt for the 90 which may give you a bit more distance.
NOTE: The professionals and low handicap players use the higher compression balls because their impact speed and swing mechanics will allow the ball to compress properly, thus attaining the maximum result in distance.

Some other equipment I would strongly recommend would be as follows:

  • A golf towel
  • Golf shoes - Though not absolutely necessary it will assist with stability as you swing.
  • Golf tees - There are different height golf tees made for different drivers, woods and irons - I would recommend that you pick up an assortment of sizes - 2 1/8" for woods and irons & 2 3/4" or 3 1/4" for Drivers depending on type and size. Check with golf pro or sales person for recommendations if not sure.
  • Golf glove - Not required but it will give you a definite advantage in gripping and holding the club more effectively.
  • Ball markers - Used on the green to mark your ball so you will not to block the path of your fellow player - a rule of golf etiquette.
  • A divot repair tool - Used to repair the indentation made in the green when the golf ball lands.

Although not required to play golf, you may want to consider packing the following ancillary items:

  • Band-aids,
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
You never know when you may need them and it's better to be prepared to allow for maximum comfort while you play. I think we've covered most of the essentials.

Now you've got the Desire, you've got your equipment; next step is to learn how to play!
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