Junior Golf Club Fitting
Does your child need to be professionally fit for golf clubs?
The general rule is that until they are 60 inches tall junior golfers will be fine with a set of junior clubs from a good manufacturer. After they reach 5 feet, experienced junior players really benefit from having each club fit for their game. That being said, finding the right fit at the right time is key to getting young golfers started off right.
Length is the main consideration
The basic rule is this: if a junior golfer is choking down more than 1 ½ to 2 inches, their swing will be impacted.
Golf clubs that are too long force young golfers to make adjustments to their swing which many times leads to habits that may be difficult to change.
Taking the time to make sure you find a set that fits but has room to grow is the best thing you can do.
WHY NOT USE OR MODIFY ADULT CLUBS?
While it might be easy and affordable to just let your junior golfer use a set of old adult clubs or cut down an old set, there are downsides to this option:
- TOO STIFF: Most men's golf club shafts are on the stiffer side and do not provide enough flex for the youth golfer.
- TOO HEAVY: The heads on adult golf clubs are heavier and more difficult for the golf junior to lift, which makes it harder to get a good backswing.
- HARD TO HIT: The lofts on adult clubs (mainly men's clubs) are usually stronger, which makes it difficult for the younger golfer to get the ball airborne.
Each of these problems will make it much more difficult for your beginning golfer to learn and enjoy the game. They may become easily frustrated and lose confidence, thus causing them to lose interest in golf altogether.
HOW ARE JUNIOR CLUBS DIFFERENT THAN ADULT GOLF CLUBS?
Most junior golf clubs today are made with the child's height and weight in mind, and they are very affordable, as well.
- MORE LOFT: Kids clubs are more lofted to give your child a better opportunity to get the ball airborne.
- LIGHTER WEIGHT: They weigh less, which makes it easier for younger golfers to control the clubs.
- AFFORDABLE: The materials are less expensive in order to keep the overall cost down.
Each of these problems will make it much more difficult for your beginning golfer to learn and enjoy the game. They may become easily frustrated and lose confidence, thus causing them to lose interest in golf altogether.
Ready to get your kid in the game? We've got your back! Stop by any of our 10 retail stores and our team will help your junior get the right equipment to help them get excited about golf.
In most communities there are typically a variety of resources and programs for kids to learn and participate in golf. Austad's is a strong supporter of The First Tee, which has golf programs for all ages. Check and see if there is a First Tee Program near you and get your kid golfing today!