What happens during a golf club fitting?
A typical fitting includes a swing analysis using launch monitors, club comparisons, and feedback from a professional fitter. You’ll test different combinations of heads and shafts, and the data will guide the fitter in recommending the best setup for your swing.
It might sound a little intimidating, but a good fitter will make the experience smooth, educational, and even fun.
Here’s what to expect during your session.
Step 1: Warm-Up & Interview
You’ll start by hitting some shots with your current clubs while the fitter asks questions like:
- What’s working well in your game right now?
- Where do you struggle most — distance, direction, consistency?
- What are your goals: more distance, lower scores, or better feel?
This dialogue helps your fitter customize the session for your skill level and priorities.
Step 2: Data Collection with Launch Monitors
You’ll hit shots while connected to a launch monitor like TrackMan, GCQuad, or FlightScope, which captures:
- Ball speed
- Clubhead speed
- Launch angle
- Spin rate
- Smash factor
- Shot shape and dispersion
This data forms the baseline for all fitting decisions.
Step 3: Shaft Testing
Shafts are one of the most important components in fitting — and often misunderstood. Your fitter will test different:
- Flexes (e.g., Regular, Stiff, X-Stiff)
- Weights (e.g., 50g vs 80g)
- Kick points and materials (steel vs graphite)
Did You Know?
The wrong shaft can potentially cost you 10–15 yards and cause directional inconsistency — even with the right club head.
Step 4: Club Head Testing
Next, you’ll test different club heads that match your swing characteristics and goals:
- Forgiveness (game-improvement vs. players models)
- Spin profiles
- Face angle and center of gravity
- Feel and sound preferences
You’ll likely try a mix of combinations until the numbers — and feel — start to align.
Step 5: Adjusting Length, Lie Angle & Grip
Once the best shaft and head combo is found, your fitter dials in the details:
- Length: Based on height and posture
- Lie angle: Affects left/right ball flight
- Grip size and texture: Impacts hand tension and comfort
A lie angle that’s just 1° too flat or upright can cause you to miss the target by 10–15 yards.
Step 6: Review & Recommendations
At the end of the session, your fitter will:
- Summarize your best-performing specs
- Show comparison charts (before vs. after)
- Discuss pricing and ordering options
Many fitters will provide a spec sheet, and in many cases, your fitting fee can be applied toward a club purchase.
Quick Takeaway
A good fitting is part science, part coaching. It’s about finding the combination of club components that work best for your unique swing — not guessing or chasing trends.