How to Fit Golf Clubs for a Women

The physical differences between men and women result in dissimilar requirements when it comes to golf clubs. Traditionally, golf has been a man's world, but as more and more women enter the sport, club manufacturers are responding to the increase in demand with woods, wedges and putters designed specifically for women. These clubs, in general, are lighter and shorter than clubs made for men. But even with gender-specific clubs, it is still important to get a good fit. A club fitting can be done in as little as 20 minutes at almost any pro shop. You'll never be able to play well if you're using the wrong equipment.

Things You'll Need

• Impact tape Impact board Practice clubs Golf balls

Instructions

1. Determine the shaft length you need. This will vary depending on both your height and the length of your arms. Almost 80% of golfers will be able to use standard length clubs, while those who are taller will need a longer club and those who are shorter will need a smaller one. However, arm length is also a factor. A person of average height who happens to have short arms will require a longer club than a tall person with long arms. For women's clubs, the average "off the shelf" shaft length is made to suit golfers between 5 feet, 5 inches and 5 feet, 9 inches in height.

2. Once you have found a shaft length you are comfortable with, give the club a few practice swings. If it still feels good, place a piece of impact tape on the head of the club and hit a few practice balls from an impact board.

3. Look at the marks on the tape. If the marks are primarily on the front of the tape, the head of the club should be adjusted to a more upright position. If the marks are primarily on the back of the tape, the head of the club should be adjusted to lie flat against the ground. Adjustments are made by bending the metal that an iron is made from. Once a club has had the "lie" adjusted, it can be very difficult to readjust later so make sure you use your normal stance.

4. Establish your correct flex by determining the speed of your swing. Flex refers to the stiffness of the club. Stronger hitters benefit from a stiffer flex, while those with a slower swing do better with a looser flex.

5. Determine your kick point. Kick point is often linked to flex. A club with a low kick point can help a beginner loft the ball into the air, while more experienced golfers tend to favor clubs with a higher kick point.

6. Adjust the grip size to fit your hands. Go smaller or larger, until you find the size you feel most comfortable handling. Most ladies clubs have a shorter grip. This combined with the lighter weight club and looser flex helps to increase swing speed and send the ball further.

Tips & Warnings

• See a golf pro for help fitting your clubs. For a larger hitting area, substitute the 7-wood and a 9-wood for the 3-iron and the 4-iron. If you are less than 5 feet 5 inches in height, select a 33-inch putter.

Resources

• Ladies Golf Equipment
• Woods For Women