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Hand me down clubs are common for the first set of clubs. The investment of a new set is big if the commitment to learn the new game is not quite there yet. The golf industry is always looking to cater to the new higher handicap player. There is loads of new technology out there to aid the new golfer. There are three areas to consider when buying the first new set, the head, it's lie, and the shaft construction.

Let's start with the head. Modern technology has provided scientific buzz terms that companies use to sell clubs to new golfers. Put the fancy terms aside for a minute and think about the actual size of the head. When looking at club heads, take notice of it's over all size and the back of the club. The over sized head promotes two things for the beginner, a larger impact zone on the club face to promote contact, and plenty of momentum to get the ball in the air quicker and longer. Over sized faces promotes contact with the ball. It takes away toe and heel shots that causes the ball to stray with the developing swing. The larger surface area leads to good clean contact through the impact zone. A new golfer needs the help of an over sized head rather then the sexy blade that better golfers carry. The muscle or cavity backs are also nice features that new golfers should take advantage of. The muscle back is momentum caused by extra mass behind the head. The cavity back is a weight redistributing theory that evens out the force of the swing at impact. Both theories are positives when looking for a more pure ball flight and distance down the fairways.

The lie is another aspect of the club that beginners should take notice of. When I say lie, I am referring to how the ball sits at address of the ball. Most clubs are standard in lie, which means at address they are square with the ball. Clubs can be purchased with an off set of the head. This means that the club head is slightly behind the end of the shaft. The purpose of this is to help golfers with timing issues. The off set allows the ball to be square at impact or a slight moment longer. Manufacturers also make clubs with open and closed heads that aid hooks and slices. This option does have its advantages, but remember the long term investment and the fact that you want to learn how to erase hooks and slices. This may not be a good long term option.

The shaft construction is also important in new clubs. Steel and graphite shafts are available, and both have advantages. Steel is the heavier of the two options, and is better for a stronger player with a little more flexibility in the swing. A stronger swing needs a stronger flex. Not enough firmness in the shaft will cause excess flex at impact, but also in reverse too much firmness will hurt a golf swing that does not need it. The lighter graphite is better for the less powerful swings. The extra flex can add yardage with its whip like characteristics and can provide the extra needed forgiveness.

When you o to purchase a new set, keep the three areas of the club in mind. Remember to hit a few options to see what works with your swing. Local pros are trained in providing the proper equipment for the specific player.

Learn more about this author, Thomas Franz.
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