How to Fit Kids Golf Clubs

Teaching your kids the love of a game becomes an important part of parenthood. Fathers who enjoy golf imagine a future in which they admire their child's first drive, their son chips a shot out of the sand trap and onto the green, and their daughter putts out for her very first birdie. These visions happen just as dads purchase the first set of child's golf clubs. Knowing the appropriate type of equipment for your child becomes a critical factor in the quality and caliber of his performance. With golf, buying the appropriate golf clubs is an important step.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Measure your child's height. According to PGA Master Professional John Goodwn, one of the determining factors for accurately fitting your child's first set of clubs depends on height. After measuring your child's height you can then select a set of clubs proportionate to his size.

2. Use height, not age. As a guideline, Goodwin mentions that when the club is placed standing upright, the end of the club should be between the belly button and chest. If it falls within this measurement, those clubs fit your child. Some custom shops use age as a basis for selecting clubs, but children of any age may be taller or shorter than the norm.

3. Weigh your child. Considering your child's weight in the selection process proves critical. Clubs that are too heavy create swing problems and improper form that may be difficult to correct in later years.

4. Select the proper shaft flex. Shaft flex refers to the amount of force needed during the swing in order for the shaft to work properly. The shaft flex affects the trajectory of the golf ball. If too stiff, the swing may result in shorter distances. If too flexible, the shot may result in a slice or hooked shot.

5. Choose a proper grip size. The comfort level of your child becomes most important if you want him to enjoy the sport and perform well.

6. Consider buying used clubs designed for children. Children continuously grow, therefore it might not be wise to spend a lot of money for a new beginner's set of clubs that will need to be replaced when your child outgrows them. Wait for him to become more experienced before buying a brand new set.

References

• U.S. Kids Golf Foundation
• Club Fitting