7 essential golf clubs for beginners: this is what you really need
This article explains why a curated set of 7 clubs is the ideal starting point for every beginner to master the technique effectively and without unnecessary expense.
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When you start playing golf, you don't need to buy a full set of 14 clubs. Experienced golf instructors, including those at Zalm Golf, advise beginners to start with 5 to 7 well-chosen clubs. That's enough to get on the course, learn to hit and successfully complete your GVB course.
Below are the seven clubs you really need as a starting golfer, plus a short explanation of why.
1. The driver
The driver is the longest club in your bag and intended for the first shot on a hole, the tee shot from the tee. With high loft (ideally 10.5° to 12° for beginners) and a light graphite shaft, you get the ball into the air faster and higher. Don't buy a driver with too low a loft; that just makes things unnecessarily hard.
2. The hybrid (4H or 5H)
A hybrid replaces the tricky long irons (3 and 4 iron) and is significantly easier to handle. The wider sole and the lower centre of gravity help to lift the ball, even on a less than perfect strike. For beginners, a hybrid is virtually indispensable.
3. The 7-iron
The 7-iron is the learning tool for every beginning golfer. It offers a good balance between loft and distance, on average around 100 to 130 metres for starters, and is the most-used training iron during golf lessons. Start your GVB training with this iron and you build up a feel for the swing quickly.
4. The 9-iron
A step further into the short game. The 9-iron has more loft than the 7-iron and is used for approach shots over shorter distances (about 80 to 100 metres). Together with the 7-iron, it forms the core of your iron play as a beginner.
5. The pitching wedge (PW)
The pitching wedge is intended for shots from 60 to 90 metres and gives the ball a high arc with little roll-out. Indispensable for approach shots just before or onto the green. Most beginner sets include a PW as standard.
6. The sand wedge (SW)
Hitting out of the bunker is a skill every golfer needs sooner or later. The sand wedge has a wide sole that slides through the sand and lifts the ball up. Outside the bunker, it's also handy for short chip shots around the green.
7. The putter
More than 40% of the strokes during a round are played with the putter. A good putter you feel comfortable with directly affects your score. Choose a model with a straight lie angle and a grip thickness that suits your hand.
Practical tips for your first set
- Start small. A half set of 5 to 7 clubs is more than enough for beginners.
- Choose graphite shafts. They are lighter and compensate for a lower swing speed, typical of starters.
- Consider second-hand. Brands like Wilson, Callaway and Inesis offer solid starter sets. Second-hand items in good condition save costs without losing quality.
- Aim your budget at €150 to €350 for a complete basic set.
Once you have the right clubs, the logical next step is earning your Golf Proficiency Certificate. With a GVB you may play on virtually all golf courses in the Netherlands and Europe. Via Zalm Golf you arrange this quickly and affordably, including professional coaching at locations across the Netherlands.