What a beginner really needs: building a starter set on a budget

You don't need 14 clubs

The rules allow up to 14 clubs, not a minimum. Many beginners play well with 8 to 10: a driver or a high-lofted fairway wood, a hybrid or two, a few irons, a wedge and a putter.

A sensible beginner list

• Driver or fairway wood: a forgiving, higher-lofted club is easier to hit.
• Hybrid: easier to hit than long irons.
• Irons: a mid-iron through pitching wedge is enough to start.
• Wedge: one sand or gap wedge to start.
• Putter: simple and comfortable.
• A lightweight stand bag, a few tees, and some inexpensive balls.

Complete set or build your own

A boxed complete set is the easiest way to start, and the clubs are matched and designed to be forgiving. Building a set from used clubs costs a little more effort but can give you better clubs for the same money. Either way, make sure the length and flex suit your height and strength.

Size matters

Clubs that are too long or too short, or too stiff, make learning harder. Taller or shorter golfers, juniors, women and seniors each have club options built for them.

Shoes and the rest

Comfortable golf shoes help more than most gear. A glove, a few tees, a divot tool and ball markers are cheap and useful. Skip expensive extras until you've played several rounds.

Where to save

• Buy a used set or last season's model.
• Set price alerts on the clubs you want.
• Compare shipping, not just the sticker price.