Are economic worries holding you back from spending money on golf? Getting into the sport has many advantages, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. While you’re a newbie on the golf course, making only a few financial investments in your game is best. We’ve outlined some suggestions for beginners and women on a budget to avoid shelling out thousands of dollars while learning to play.
Photo credit: Alejandro Cuadro
Photo credit: Alejandro Cuadro
Equipment:
Golf clubs will be your most significant expense, and women often choose clubs that are too heavy for them. Clubs made for women usually have graphite shafts and are shorter than men’s clubs. Rent your clubs from a local golf store or pro shop while taking lessons to get a feel for them and have your instructor look them over. Once you’ve determined the right kind of clubs for your needs, you can confidently create a budget to purchase your own set and a golf bag to compliment your wardrobe.
Photo credit: Teo Gonzalez
Apparel & Accessories:
A simple starter outfit will help you feel confident on the links. You’ll need a polo shirt, pants or shorts, a pair of golf shoes, a visor if it’s sunny and a golf glove. The best women’s golf clothing comes from popular athletic companies such as Nike and Adidas. Look for items in plaid or solid colors, which are traditional on the golf course. Your new golf clothes should fit you properly and feel comfortable, giving you more time to focus on your swing. While on a budget, avoid buying your new golf attire at the pro shop, as they are much more expensive than online or national sporting goods stores.
Photo credit: C&R
Golf Course
Picking a place to try out your new clubs doesn’t have to be expensive. The cost of a game of golf depends on how many courses are in your area and if you live in a tourist-heavy region. Public golf courses are more budget-friendly and charge as low as $10 for a 9-hole course. Daily-fee, public courses operated by private companies charge as little as $36 for an 18-hole course. These are good places to start practicing your game. The budget-conscious should avoid private courses requiring thousands of dollars in initiation fees.
Photo credit: Rick Sharp
Golf Lessons
The fastest way to improve your golf game is to get a private lesson with a golf pro. The pro will analyze your swing and teach you how to avoid bad golf habits. Lessons typically cost $50 for 30 to 45 minutes of instruction, although you can get a discount if you sign up for longer or multiple sessions. If you still can’t afford private lessons within your budget, then sign up for a beginner-focused golf program such as Get Golf Ready, an industry-wide golf program created to bring new golfers into the game in a fast, fun, and affordable way.
