Where to spend and where to save in golf
Bang for your buck is crucial in a sport where costs can add up, so which areas of the bag can you save on without affecting your experience too much – and which are imperative you invest in?
Where to spend
Driver. I want the longest, most forgiving and consistent driver and the only way to get that is to play the latest models. At lower price points, I’ve found the components don’t tend to be as good and spin rates are often too high. Wedges. From my experience, using a wedge with deteriorated grooves means the amount of spin you get will be lower and less consistent. You lose that predictability, which is crucial when trying to knock it close to the flag.
Irons. These are an expensive purchase regardless – so you may as well splash out on a brand/model that you really like given how long they’re likely to remain in your bag.
Trolleys. Nowadays they can keep your score, measure your shots and even provide GPS distances – so you don’t need another GPS device and they will last for a good few years.
Where to save
Balls. Yes, premium balls are incredibly consistent and perform at a high level through the bag, but there are some excellent mid-priced options that really don’t sacrifice much performance.
Putter. This is a category where user error is most at play and technology arguably has the least effect. Some putters do work better than others, but regardless of price they will all propel the ball along the ground towards the hole.
Lasers. There really isn’t much difference between a laser costing £150 and £350 if you just want to point and shoot.
Shoes. The difference between a pair costing £100 and £150 is often not tangible. Going down in price doesn’t mean opting for a lesser-known brand.