The Impact of Custom Fitted Clubs
Are you questioning whether custom-fitted golf clubs are necessary for your game?
Many golfers, especially those new to the game, underestimate the impact of using the right clubs. The truth is, it's crucial to find clubs that suit YOU, rather than trying to fit yourself to the clubs.
Consider this scenario: playing with clubs that are too long and have a stiff, heavy shaft. You have to force yourself to adjust your swing which can create bad habits. The game of golf is hard enough. Improvement becomes a challenge when you're using the wrong clubs.
The right equipment can be the game-changer you didn't know you needed.
It is a misconception that only seasoned golfers benefit from custom clubs. Being fit for clubs can make a significant difference in your game no matter your skill level. . It goes beyond hitting the ball; it's about feeling comfortable, confident, and achieving better shots.
Club Fitting Costs and What to Expect
Wondering about the investment? A typical fitting “full bag” (all of your clubs) session costs around $250. In 3-4 hours with a fitter, you'll undergo a thorough assessment. The process involves looking at your old clubs and comparing them to potential replacements that could significantly enhance your distance and consistency. If you’d prefer to just go get fit for a driver or putter for example, the cost is about $100 and would only take an hour. The price for custom clubs vary, ranging from standard to a bit more for upgraded shafts.
Finding Your Perfect Clubs
Getting fit for clubs isn't just about acquiring new gear; it's about understanding what suits you best. Fitters will analyze your equipment's performance. By using different head and shaft combinations, the fitter will ensure you end up with the perfect mix of woods, hybrids, irons, and wedges. Key considerations include distance gapping – ensuring a good distance gap between clubs (usually 10 yards) – preventing redundancy in your bag and overall optimizing your game!
During the assessment, the club fitter examines various factors, leveraging the latest knowledge in golf technology and biomechanics. For example, the fitter may look at:
Lie of your club: Check that the toe of the club isn’t sitting up in the air, causing unwanted ball curvature.
Grip size: Recommending smaller grips for those with smaller hands, ensuring a comfortable hold.
Length of shaft: Adjusted based on your height.
Type of shaft: Tailoring to your swing speed and strength for improved consistency.
A common example of this is a smaller woman might find it easier to generate more club head speed with a lighter shaft compared to a standard men's shaft. Men's shafts, on average, weigh around 65 to 70 grams, while a women's shaft might weigh around 50 to 60 grams. This difference can significantly impact the ability to swing with ease and generate more power. On the other hand, someone who generates a lot of club head speed may find it difficult to control the club face with a lighter shaft and they may find consistency from using a heavier shaft.
In addition to boosting your on-course performance, custom club fitting can also contribute to injury prevention and enhance your overall enjoyment of the game. Clubs tailored to your physical attributes and swing mechanics reduce the risk of strain or injury, promoting a more comfortable and sustainable playing experience. Furthermore, playing with clubs that complement your style can make the game more enjoyable.
Check out this video of Iron Lady Golf Founder Lindsay Knowlton getting fit for clubs at TaylorMade.
The Long and Short
You do not have to be an experienced golfer to benefit from a club fitting. If you are considering getting custom fit, a good place to start is assessing your game. Reflect on your golfing skills and goals. Are you new to golf or a player with some experience under their belt? Custom fitting can benefit all, but the degree of impact may vary. We suggest having some basics of the game and a passion for continuing your golfing journey - getting custom fit is an investment in your game.
Next Steps
Are you interested in getting fitted for golf clubs? If so, reach out to us at info@ironladygolf.com and we can help you get connected with trusted fitters.
