Keeping your costs as low as your handicap: a guide to buying used golf clubs
Looking to buy some second hand equipment but not sure where to start? Our friends from Golfbidder have some top tips to get you on your way
Golf is sometimes labelled as an expensive and inaccessible sport which struggles to attract a new audience. However, there are ways of keeping costs down and one way to do this is through buying and selling used golf clubs.
Let’s take a look at some top tips for buying second-hand to keep your costs as low as your handicap.
Value for money
Much has been said about the rising costs of new golf clubs, with the price of premium drivers released in 2020 frequently costing north of £400. However, for the savvy golfer who wants to save money without missing out on the latest technological advancements, clubs released within the 12-18-month-old range provide extremely good value as they share much of the up to date technology at a largely reduced price.
You can purchase a second-hand M5 driver released in 2019 for £187, as opposed to the 2020 released SIM driver brand new for £449. Both incorporate TaylorMade’s revolutionary ‘Twistface technology’. That is not to say do not ever buy new and remember, you can always trade in your driver and upgrade to the latest version via retailers which specialise in buying second-hand clubs.
Try them out on the course
Buying used golf clubs gives you the ability to test them out. Certain retailers have policies in place meaning that you can try the clubs out on the course or at your local driving range and if you are not 100% happy with them you can return them for a full refund. So, no need to be afraid that you won’t get on with your new sticks!
Wider range to choose from
Buying used golf clubs provides you with a wider range to choose from, with stock ranging from this year’s latest release to the reliable tried and tested.
Things to look out for
Some top tips to look out for when buying used golf clubs:
1. If you are a keen golfer and have had a club fitting, make sure to find something that matches up to your specifications. Look out for sites that rate the head, shaft and grip condition out of 10, so you can see the condition of the clubs you are purchasing.
2. Keep an eye out for a hidden gem. Every now and again a brand releases a product that takes the golfing world by storm. Think the original 2-Ball putter. Rare collaborations such as Mizuno and Bettinardi Golf’s short stint creating putters or niche releases. Or Nike’s Forged TW blades which all become available from time to time and are sure to make you stand out on the course.
3. Look out for clubs the pros are still playing on tour. Even though many of the top pros on tour are paid to play with the latest gear, some still choose to play with clubs that they feel work best for them. Notably, Matt Fitzpatrick used a Yes! Tracy II putter for 12 years and Henrik Stenson’s ‘old trusty’ Diablo Octane Tour featured in his bag for over a decade.
