How do you pick the best golf club fitter?

Not all club fittings are created equal. Choosing the right fitter can mean the difference between a transformative experience and a forgettable one. Here’s what to look for when evaluating your options:

Brand-Neutral vs. OEM-Affiliated

• Brand-Neutral Fitters carry equipment from multiple manufacturers. They’re focused on finding what works best for your swing — not pushing a single brand.
• OEM-Affiliated Fitters (like Titleist or Callaway Performance Centers) may offer deep insights into a specific brand but are limited in scope.
• Best Choice? If you want the most objective fitting, look for someone with access to a broad range of brands and components.

Check Their Technology

A high-quality fitter should be equipped with:

• Launch Monitors: TrackMan, GCQuad, or Flightscope for data like ball speed, spin, launch angle, and dispersion.
• Putter Technology: SAM PuttLab, Quintic, or Capto for stroke analysis.
• Lie Boards, Shaft Optimizers, Loft/Lie Machines: To dial in every club to your body and swing mechanics.

Inventory Depth

Ask:

• “How many shaft and head combinations can I test?”
• The best fitters stock hundreds of combinations, including premium shafts and the latest OEM heads (Titleist, TaylorMade, Callaway, Mizuno, etc.).
• Avoid shops that only carry a handful of options or push off-the-rack builds.

Certifications & Reviews

While there isn’t a single universal credentialing body, these are the most respected and widely recognized certifications in the industry:

TrueFit Certification
This is Club Champion's internal certification to ensure their fitters meet high-standards in multi-brand, data-driven fitting.

GolfWorks Certified Club Fitter
This is from The GolfWorks (partnered with Golf Price, TrueTemper, etc.) that covers all aspects of club fitting, assembly, and repair.

OEM Training Programs
Most major club manufacturers offer certification or training for authorized fitters:

• PING Certified Fitter
• Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) – especially for Titleist and Vokey fitters
• Callaway Certified Master Fitter
• TaylorMade Certified Fitter
• Mizuno Performance Fitting System (PFS) Training

These programs vary in depth but generally include launch monitor use, equipment specs, and player matching.

Quick Takeaway
Years of experience matters. Read online reviews, check testimonials, and don’t hesitate to call and ask questions about their process.