Best Golf Clubs For Beginners Buyer Guide 2023

I think you’ll agree that it can be very hard to know what to look for when purchasing your first set of golf clubs. The following is a detailed guide to the top-rated golf clubs for beginners exploring the key factors to enhancing and improving your golfing abilities.

For the beginner golfer, there are a few key things you want to look for in clubs, the number one thing is forgiveness. Golf takes patience and a lot of practice but having the right equipment is paramount.

🏆 Quick Look at the Best Golf Clubs for Beginners 🏆

 

We’ve included detailed buyers guide following on from the reviews. This information covers the key features and factors to take into consideration when choosing the right clubs for you. There is no one size fits all so be sure to have a look through that information too.

Best Golf Clubs for Beginners

1. Callaway Men’s Strata Complete Golf Club Set with Bag (12-piece)

The Callaway Mens Strata set are the best beginner clubs on the market. Designed for a complete beginner to a seasoned player.

Set Includes

• 460cc titanium composite forged driver.
•  3 Wood
• 5 hybrid
• Four irons
• Pitching wedge
• Mallet putter
• Clubhead covers
• Lightweight stand bag with carry strap and rain hood
• Available in left and right-hand orientation

These clubs give maximum performance without blowing the budget. Callaway produces high-quality products and the Callaway Mens Strata set is no exception.

These clubs will give you the forgiveness a beginner needs as well as the feeling of great control while playing.

A very comprehensive set with a total weight of 12 pounds. With glowing, positive Amazon reviews this set offers excellent value for money and surely won’t disappoint.

2. Wilson Men’s Ultra Complete Package Golf Set

Wilson Men’s Ultra Complete Package is another fantastic set for beginners to intermediates alike.

Set Includes

• Driver
• 3 Fairway Wood
• 4 Hybrid
• Irons 5-PW
• Putter
• Available in left and right orientation

These clubs are built to last and with an inexpensive price, it’s hard to overlook. For men of 6’2″ and below these clubs are ideal.

The driver is made from graphite and the fairway wood boasts great launch and accuracy.

The shafts are comprised of iron which will be favorable to most but not so much to others. Trialing clubs made with steel would be a great idea before making this purchase.

In saying that these clubs are specifically made for beginners’ needs. With positive Amazon customer reviews, the Wilson Men’s Ultra Complete Package presents great value for money. Read our full review of the Wilson Ultra Set here!

3. Callaway Men’s Strata Ultimate Complete Golf Set (16-Piece)

If you have the budget the Callaway Mens Strata Ultimate Set are fantastic. This is an 18 piece set that is suited to those who are more serious and dedicated to the sport.

Set Includes

• Full titanium driver + headcover
• 3 Wood & 5 Wood + head covers
• Hybrids 4H and 5H + head covers
• Irons/Wedges (6-PW, SW)
• Putter
• Bag with durable carry strap
• Available in left and right orientation

Callaway produces amazing golf clubs and is renowned for its beginners’ clubs. High flight technology means you’ll be able to achieve maximum distance without compromising on control.

The Callaway Men’s Strata Ultimate Set is a great beginner’s golf set for the more serious beginners or those looking to upgrade their gear.

4. Callaway Women’s Strata Plus Complete Set

Women who are interested in learning to play golf should take a look at the Callaway Women’s Strata Complete Set. It is the perfect way to get a full beginner-friendly set of clubs at a price that won’t break the bank.

Set Includes

• 460cc Composite Titanium Driver + Headcover
• 5 Wood + Headcover
• 5 Hybrid + Headcover
• 6 – PW & SW
• Mallet Style Putter
• Lightweight Carry Bag
• Available In Right Hand Orientation

There tend to be fewer choices for women when it comes to a great beginner’s set of golf clubs. But with the Strata Plus Complete Set, women now have a great choice for a long-lasting set of clubs that work great for beginners.

Included in the set are a driver, 5 wood and hybrid, and irons that cover 6 – SW. All the clubs in this set come with graphite shafts to help increase swing speed and distance.

The putter is a mallet-style putter that is very balanced and easy to use; something that is important for those learning the game.

A stand bag does come with the set and has 5 large pockets to carry additional items like balls, towels, and tees.

Callaway has a great reputation when it comes to beginners clubs and the Women’s Strata Complete Set is another great golf package that should be on every woman’s radar if they are looking to start golfing.

5. Confidence Golf Mens Power Hybrid Club Set & Stand Bag

If you are budget restricted the Confidence Golf Power clubs are a great option. Featuring all necessary clubs and a bag it is a great buy for the casual golfers out there.

Set Includes

• 6-7-8-9-PW Irons
• 24-degree hybrid wood with a steel shaft
• Putter
• Stand bag with auto pop legs.

The Confidence Golf Power is a good beginner set for the casual golfers out there but if you are more serious about your golf we recommend the other choices in this post.

6. Top Line Men’s M5 Golf Club Set

Precise has been gaining more and more traction in the golf club industry thanks to their different types of complete sets that are targeted at beginners and intermediate players.

Set Includes

• 460cc Composite Titanium Driver + Headcover
• 3 Wood + Headcover
• 4 Hybrid + Headcover
• 5 – PW Irons
• Mallet Style Putter
• Lightweight Carry Bag
• Available In Right And Left Hand Orientation

The first thing that stands out about the M5 Complete Set is the quality in all the components. Titanium and other composite components make up the driver, 3 wood, and 4 hybrid. All the irons are made of a stainless steel cavity back design with deep undercuts.

All of these high-quality materials and designs make each club in the M5 Complete Set have exceptional distance and forgiveness, something that all beginners crave.

A simple mallet-style putter and traditional style carry bag are also included in the set.

Precise also offers the M5 Complete Set with 1-inch extensions for those that require longer clubs (normally those over 6 foot 5 inches).

Most beginners are just concerned with having everything they need to get out on the course, and the Precise M5 Complete Set makes it easy to get on the course with a quality set of clubs.

7. Pinemeadow Complete Set

The Pinemeadow Pre Complete Set is a deluxe golf set that includes more clubs at a lower price than many other golf sets on the market.

Set Includes

• 460cc Titanium Enhanced Driver + Headcover
• 3 Wood + Headcover
• 3 Hybrid + Headcover
• 4 – PW Irons
• Mallet Style Putter
• Stand Bag
• Available In Right Hand Orientation

Both the 3 wood and driver have great power but also have a somewhat dated design that doesn’t look as streamlined as more modern clubs. This design doesn’t affect the clubs’ playability, it just may stand out a little.

On the other hand, the irons in the set look to be of a more modern cavity back design. Made of stainless steel, each iron has great durability and feel which is important for beginners.

The putter is a two-ball style mallet putter that is popular for its stability and ease of lining up shots.

A stand bag with a backpack-style carry harness is also included in the set.

Despite the dated design of the driver and fairway woods, the Pinemeadow PRE Complete Set is perfect for beginners looking to get some solid clubs at a reasonable price.

8. TaylorMade Golf- RBladez 2.0 Yellow Irons

Beginners fall into two distinct areas; those who are learning the basics and those who have a solid understanding of the basics and are gaining experience. For beginners who fall into the latter category, Taylormade’s RBladez 2.0 are a great upgrade over many other beginners’ clubs.

Set Includes

• Set of 7 Irons
• 4,5,6,7,8,9 & PW
• Speed Pocket Design
• Steel Shaft Regular Flex
• Available In Right Hand Orientation

Unlike many of the other sets in this review, the RBladez 2.0 only comes with the irons and no other clubs or even a bag. This means this set is truly for those looking to upgrade to a set of irons that will begin to bridge the gap between beginner and intermediate.

Included in the set are seven different irons that cover the spectrum between 4 iron and a pitching wedge. Speed Pocket Technology can be found on irons numbered 4-7 and is supposed to increase swing speed and forgiveness.

Each club has a steel shaft and regular flex, making it perfect for those who are still trying to iron out their swing.

An upgrade to the Taylormade RBladez 2.0 will definitely give an advanced beginner more confidence and help them become a better golfer.

9. Aspire X1 Golf Set

The Aspire X1 complete set is perfect for beginners or those looking for game improvement clubs. If you hope to achieve more distance and accuracy but need forgiveness then this is a great set.

Set Includes

• 460cc Titanium Driver
• Fairway Wood
• Hybrid
• 6-PW Irons
• Putter
• Stand Bag
• 3 Headcovers
• Only available in right-hand orientation

The additional feature of these clubs is that they are available in two sizes, one for players 6 feet and under and another for players 6 foot 1 and over.

The only downside is that these clubs are only available in right-handed orientation. In terms of value for money the Aspire X1 complete golf is a great option. 

10. Wilson Golf Profile SGI Men’s Complete Golf Set

Wilson’s new SGI golf sets are the perfect way to get the right-sized clubs for your game. Marketed as “Custom fit in a box”, the SGI Complete Set gives any golfer quality clubs at a very reasonable price.

Set Includes

• Large 460cc Titanium Driver + Headcover
• 5 Wood + Headcover
• 5 Hybrid + Headcover
• 6 – PW & SW
• Blade Style Putter
• Lightweight Carry Bag
• Available In Right and Left Hand Orientation

Wilson sets are always popular with beginners due to their low price yet great quality. Many rounds of golf can be had with this set of clubs, thanks to their high durability.

A very well made 460cc driver is included as well as a 5 wood and 5 hybrid. All three clubs come with headcovers to help protect them from dings and scratches.

The included irons are really well done and offer a progressive design style. A cavity back design can be found on the 6 – PW, but a muscle back design is present on the Sand Wedge. This change is very similar to other higher-end sets.

A well-made carry bag that has a backpack style harness and two stabilizing legs is also included to make carrying your clubs a breeze.

The Wilson SGI Complete Set is by far the best value complete golf set for beginners on the market thanks to its well-made clubs and extremely lightweight carry bag.

11. Men’s Powerbilt Golf EX-550 Hybrid Iron Set

The popularity of hybrid style irons have risen in recent years and this style of irons have become some of the best golf clubs for seniors. With a simple to hit design and overall lighter weight, where can you go wrong?

Set Includes

• Set of 8 Hybrid Irons
• 4,5,6,7,8,9, PW, & SW
• Hollow Body Construction
• Traditional Sand Wedge Design
• Graphite Shaft Senior Flex
• Available In Right Hand Orientation

A total of eight hybrid irons are contained in the EX-550 Hybrid Set and range from 4 – SW. One thing to consider is that the sand wedge is of a traditional design and lacks a tank that is normally found on a hybrid.

A hollow body is what makes these clubs so easy hit and it’s this easy to hit nature why seniors who are looking to start golfing should think about purchasing the EX-550’s as their first set.

Graphite shafts are a common occurrence on senior clubs and the EX-550 Hybrid Irons are no different. These graphite shafts help add extra swing speed by lowering the total weight of each club.

A combination of a progressive sole design and lightweight materials make the Powerbilt EX-550 Hybrid Iron Set one of the best hybrid golf club sets for seniors on the market today.

12. Wilson Staff Men’s D200 Irons

For those beginners who would like to put together their own set of golf clubs, the Wilson Staff D200 Irons make a great beginning set of irons. Easy playability and great forgiveness are just some of the features that help beginners hit the ball more consistently.

Set Includes

• Set of 9 Irons
• 4,5,6,7,8,9, PW, GW, SW
• Speed Sole Technology
• Driver Like Face Response
• Steel Shaft Regular Flex
• Available In Right and Left Hand Orientation

Although the looks of the Wilson Staff D200 Irons are similar to some of Wilson’s lower-priced sets, the features and performance do not compare.

Each iron comes with Speed Sole technology that allows for faster swing speeds and better turf interaction. More distance is achieved from a forged face that acts similarly to a driver’s trampoline style face.

Weighting has also been moved to the toe and heel to help balance the clubhead.

Remember that since this set includes irons only, you will need to purchase the other necessities like a driver, woods, putter, and bag.

Wilson’s Staff line of golf clubs are perfect for beginners and the D200 Iron set will help new players learn the basics and allow for better scoring over time.

13. Top Flite XL 13-Piece Complete Golf Set

Of all beginner sets, the Top Flite XL Complete Set may be the most popular and widely used. It features respectable clubs and a well-made carry bag at a price that is hard to beat.

Set Includes

• 460cc Composite Titanium Driver + Headcover
• 3 Wood + Headcover
• 4 & 5 Hybrids
• 6 – PW Irons
• Counter Weighted Style Putter
• Lightweight Carry Bag
• Available In Right Hand Orientation

Like many other sets, the XL Complete Set includes a driver and 3 wood. But instead of only one hybrid, Top Flite includes two hybrids to help beginners have more options out on the course.

The included irons are a simple cavity back design that have no real extra features. This lack of features is perfectly fine for beginners since most are looking to perfect the basics.

A counterweighted putter is perfect for beginners due to its stability. This particular style has been used in Top Flite Sets for the last several years.

The carry bag is relatively light but some of the pockets seem that they might be a little to thin which could lead to tears due to eventual wear and tear.

Overall, the Top Flite XL Complete Set has been one of the best selling beginner sets for a reason. It definitely offers excellent value and should be considered by anyone looking to take up the sport of golf.

14. Prosimmon Golf DRK Mens RH GRAPHITE Hybrid Club Set

It is no secret that golf tends to be an expensive sport. While this is true to an extent, there are always options for those on a budget and for beginners who want to test the waters before jumping in should take a look at the Prosimmon Golf DRK Complete Set.

Set Includes

• 460cc Titanium Driver + Headcover
• 3 Wood + Headcover
• 4 Hybrid + Headcover
• 5 – PW Irons
• Mallet Style Putter
• Deluxe Stand Bag
• Available In Right Hand Orientation

The first thing that needs to be said is that yes, the DRK Complete Set does feel a little “cheap”. Despite this, all the clubs in the set still provide good distance and forgiveness on most shots.

A 10.5-degree driver helps with higher launches off the tee and the included 3 wood makes fairway shots a breeze.

Again, the irons are nothing to write home about but are perfect for those who are still learning the basics. An advantage of the irons is their durability which comes in handy for beginners as their clubs usually take a beating.

Also, each club comes with a graphite shaft that has a regular flex. Usually, senior golf clubs come with a senior flex, but this set is perfect for seniors who want a stronger flex but with lighter graphite shafts.

Money should never hold someone back from trying something new, and the Prosimmon Golf DRK Complete Set is the perfect way for those on a budget to try out golf.

15. Tour Edge Golf Bazooka Steel Box Full Golf Club Set

Beginners who are looking to take up golf regularly should look for a slightly more premium product that can help them become better over time. It is this niche where the Tour Edge Bazooka 460 Complete Set really shines.

Set Includes

• 460cc Titanium Driver + Headcover
• 3 & 5 Wood + Headcovers
• 4 & 5 hybrid + Headcovers
• Four Irons & Pitching Wedge
• Counter Weighted Putter
• Premium Cart Bag
• Available In Right Hand Orientation

Each club in this set is of premium quality and perfect for beginners who are looking to try to improve their game. The best part is that the price is somewhere near the mid-point, making this set perfect for someone who is looking to golf regularly.

Included is a large Titanium Driver as well as two different woods and hybrids. Each of these clubs also comes with a corresponding headcover.

The irons are of a cavity back design and make hitting straight shots easy thanks to their increased forgiveness and graphite shafts. A simple counterweighted style putter is also included in the set.

A Black/Silver/Green cart bag is included to hold all of the clubs. No carry strap or legs are included with the bag.

If you are a beginner but serious about getting into golf, make the investment and get a full set of clubs that will allow you to learn the game and continue to grow as you become better at the sport.

Common Questions

1. What is Included in a Golf Set?

According to rule 4.4 but the USGA a player can carry no more than 14 clubs (1). For those not in competition, you can carry as many clubs as you want. However, as a beginner we recommend choosing 9 or 10, this makes it easier for club selection while playing golf. The trick is to learn how to use a few select clubs really well and then once you have, expand and learn to play a few more. Generally, a set will consist of:

• Driver (9 – 13 degrees)
• Fairway wood (15-17 degrees)
• Hybrid (19-21 degrees)
• Iron Set
• Wedges – Pitching Wedge & Sand wedge
• Putter

In addition to the clubs, a set can also include a bag, stand and headcovers for the driver and woods.

As you progress in your golfing ability, you can change your equipment. As golf is about precision and strategy your equipment is vital – upgrading as you improve is a must.

For beginners, we recommend starting with 9 or 10 clubs and adding to them as your skills develop.

2. Caring for your clubs

It is recommended that you wash your clubs regularly. Clean them after each round with warm soapy water and a cloth. You may need a scrubbing brush to remove pieces of grass/dirt. It’s important to keep them clean as even a small bump on the clubface will alter the course of the ball.

It is recommended that you include a towel in your golf bag to wipe away any moisture, sand or mud during the round.

Refer to our detailed golf towel reviews to help make your purchase.

In addition, you should also invest in some headcovers which will protect your clubs during transport.

If you plan to travel with your golf clubs, you’ll also need a solid, protective travel case. 

3. Best way to choose the right club when playing

There are plenty of guides which will give a general idea of which club to use. The best thing you can do is take a notebook with you to the driving range. While you’re there, play each club and work out the distance you can achieve. Once you know what club hits what distance you can apply this on the course. With time, you’ll get very comfortable with selecting the right club.

4. What is the better shaft material? Steel or Graphite?

The key difference between a steel or graphite shaft is that graphite is much lighter.

In effect, the graphite shaft will give you more speed in your swing and for this reason. If you are a senior player or female, graphite shafts are a solid choice. Most men’s golf clubs will be made of steel as the male build is better suited to this.

A steel shaft is better suited to someone looking for more weight and therefore more control over the club head. You could always try out a few different clubs and see what feels best.

For beginner golfers, this video is fantastic to cover the basics.

Key Components of Golf Clubs

Ultimately what beginners need in golf clubs is forgiveness. While learning how to swing and how to hit accurately a golf set offering maximum forgiveness is key.

In order to master your swing and golf-style, one must practice with the clubs which will allow for corrections while you learn from your mistakes and wins.

For complete beginners irons can feel quite heavy and fairway woods can be very tricky to play with. For this reason, hybrid golf clubs are a good solution for beginners as they will allow for a better swing and extra distance. They are more forgiving, meaning any mishits or errors won’t ruin the game.

Again, as a complete beginner there is no need to invest thousands into your golf clubs, start with the inexpensive clubs and as your skills develop upgrade your set.

Club Shafts

There are many things to consider when selecting the right shaft for your set, these include the material, the flex, torque, length and weight.

For beginners, however, the only two that are worth considering are the shaft material and shaft flex.

Shaft Material

For beginners, especially males you’ll want to go for steel shafts. As mentioned earlier, graphite is a good option for those who have slower swing speeds such as seniors and females. This is a big generalization here but most men don’t have slow swing speeds and therefore steel is sufficient. There are many other materials but they begin to get quite expensive and to be honest for a newcomer, steel is more than adequate.

Shaft Flex

Along with the shaft material, the shaft flex is going to affect the accuracy, trajectory and distance of your shots.

The shaft flex is explained as the bend in your club during your swing. As your club swings, the shaft flexes which in turn changes the position of the clubhead.

If you choose the wrong flex then your chances of hitting the golf ball are going to be reduced. For women and seniors we recommend a softer flex but men tend to prefer stiff or regular shaft flex.

Is it Worth Getting Fitted Clubs

For the very serious and keen golfer, fitted clubs will produce very good results. Is it necessary for a beginner? No. Fitted clubs are quite expensive and overkill for a beginner. We recommend sticking to a set while you learn the basics and try things out. As you progress, consider fitted clubs.

Secondhand Clubs vs. Brand New clubs

There are many great used golf club sets available. There are sets from beginners who have progressed onto different clubs or beginners who never really kept up with golf.

If you prefer to buy things new then there are plenty of options. If you are dedicated to the sport then new clubs can be the motivation to push your golfing even further.

If you are unsure about your interest in the sport then a used set could also be a good idea to test it out.

Should I Purchase Clubs Individually?

For beginner and intermediate players it is much more affordable to buy a complete set. If you are quite advanced then purchasing individual clubs is a great idea.

There can be advantages to buying clubs individually but it will be a lot more expensive in the long run.

Many professional golfers will purchase individual clubs to test out and tweak there game.

Golfing Goals

The last few considerations are personal considerations. What are your goals? What is your level of interest in the sport? How dedicated are you?

These are all very important questions to ask yourself before selecting the right golf clubs. Is this a hobby you would like to pick up? Do you plan to play multiple times per week?

Depending on how you answered these questions will determine which clubs you should invest in. If you are unsure about your interest and dedication to golf then opt for the inexpensive clubs that will still give you a good performance.

If you are eager and ready to get right into then spending a bit more money now will be beneficial in the long run.

Bottom Line

When playing a new sport or starting a new hobby there is always a lot of information available that can lead to an overload. Sometimes all this information can change excitement to confusion or apprehension, dampening the experience and leading to second-guessing.

That is why in this guide we only included the top-rated golf sets for beginners. This helps take away some of the uncertainty. You’ll only get the information that you need to purchase an excellent set of clubs.

So what do all the sets of golf clubs in this review guide have in common?

Well first off, all the sets feature beginner-friendly clubs that are durable and able to withstand the rigors of learning the game of golf. Second, most sets come with everything you need to get started. A bag, driver, fairway wood, irons, and a putter are the common configuration.

The only thing not included in any of these sets of clubs is the willingness to get out on the range or course and try to learn the game. It will be tough in the beginning, but with time and perseverance, you will be able to play an enjoyable game for the rest of your life.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a set of our recommended clubs and get out on the course today!

As always, for all your golfing needs head to golfaccessoriesreviews.com to find what you’re looking for.

 

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References

1. USGA, Rule 4-4: Types of Clubs Selected for the Stipulated Round, https://www.usga.org/RulesFAQ/rules_answer.asp?FAQidx=171&Rule=4