What is a golf club fitting?
Club Fitting FAQs
What is a golf club fitting?
Golf club fitting is the process of matching golf equipment to a player’s unique swing characteristics, physical build, and performance goals. Rather than using off-the-shelf clubs built for “the average golfer,” a fitting ensures your clubs are tailored to you, helping you swing more efficiently, strike more consistently, and play more confidently.
Why it Matters
Most golfers unknowingly play with clubs that work against them:
- Shafts too stiff or too soft can cause slices, hooks, or ballooning shots.
- Incorrect lie angles can lead to left/right misses even on well-struck shots.
- Off-the-rack clubs may be too long, too short, too heavy, or poorly gapped.
Golfers Are Not One-Size-Fits-All
Every golfer has a unique:
- Swing speed
The speed at which the clubhead is traveling at the moment it strikes the ball, measured in miles per hour (mph). - Tempo
The rhythm or timing of a golfer’s swing — specifically, the ratio of time spent on the backswing compared to the downswing. - Angle of attack
The vertical angle at which the clubhead approaches the ball at impact — either downward (negative) or upward (positive). - Wrist-to-floor measurement
The distance from the crease of your wrist to the floor while standing upright with arms relaxed at your sides. - Shot pattern
The typical dispersion and direction of a golfer’s shots — including common misses (left, right, short, long) and shot shape (fade, draw, etc.). - Strength and flexibility level
A golfer’s physical capabilities, particularly in generating power and maintaining range of motion throughout the swing.
Club fitting brings all of this into account to fine-tune:
- Shaft flex and weight
- Clubhead style and loft
- Lie angle and length
- Grip size and feel
Fitting Isn’t Just for Pros
A common misconception is that only elite or low-handicap players need a fitting. In truth, higher-handicap and beginner golfers often benefit even more, because properly fit clubs can correct flaws and build confidence faster.
Quick Takeaway
Club fitting is like tailoring a suit: the right fit brings out your best. Without it, even the most expensive clubs might hold you back. Whether you’re trying to hit more fairways or shave strokes off your game, a fitting is one of the smartest first steps.