Equipment

Here we cover just the basics, much more detailed information, photographs, videos and advice will be found in the Equipment section.

If you have never played golf before you may find that by talking to a golf professional to arrange some initial tuition that they will provide a club(s) for you to use. If after the initial lessons you wish to purchase equipment then many Pro's will advise just a half set of clubs, or maybe even a second hand set.  Whatever you buy it really is important that you let your Pro have a look at them to make sure they fit you. This may sound silly, but if a golf club is too long or too short, or the grip is too thick or too thin, then you will not be able to strike the ball properly. 

Once you are experienced enough to go out on the golf course you will need a golf bag, but don't go overboard with size!!

In your bag you will need:

• Spare golf balls- more than you think you will need (Just in case!)
• Spare tees
• Pencil for scoring
• Pen for marking golf balls
• Golf ball marker
• Umbrella
• Towel for cleaning clubs
• Waterproofs - possibly!
• Pitch mark repairer
• Drink
• Snack bar(s)
• Golf Rule Book

This is just a guide for the basics, you may also want to take things like sun cream, a hat and sunglasses. The equipment section has a much more detailed explanation with guidance for different seasons and weather conditions.

What to wear

The normal dress code for playing on a golf course is a collared shirt, smart trousers, a round or “V” neck sweater and golf shoes. In recent years fleece tops, chino trousers, sweatshirts and roll neck have all become accepted. Some clubs accept players wearing blue denim jeans, but most will not. Football tops or football/rugby shirts are also generally unacceptable.

Different clubs have varying dress codes and if in doubt it may be advisable to contact the club Secretary or club Professional, in advance of your visit.

Do not to wear clothing that is tight fitting as this could restrict the freedom of your swinging action. If, for example, the trousers you are wearing are too tight you will not be able to produce the ultimate movement with the lower half of your body. Upper half clothing should be loose fitting, but not too loose, and should ideally leave excess material under the arms to allow your arms to swing freely.

Shoes

Golf shoes are different from ordinary shoes as they have spikes attached to their soles and are usually totally waterproof. They are worn primarily to provide you with a firm footing during your swing and while walking on what is sometimes a slippery or muddy surface. 

Shoes are made by several manufacturers in many different styles and colours to suit all tastes. The most important thing, as in all sports shoes, is a good fit to avoid blisters and excessive movement of the foot within the shoe, especially during the swing.

There are two main types of spikes - soft plastic and steel. As steel spikes tend to leave more marks on greens than soft, some clubs insist your shoes are fitted with soft spikes on their course. To Be safe, it is best to enquire on a club's policy in advance of a visit.