Should I Buy New Golf Clubs? AN Honest Guide

Every spring, like clockwork, I find myself staring at my golf bag asking the age-old question: Do I need new clubs? I mean, my current set is fine. But then again... have you seen the new models? That shiny new driver promising 15 extra yards? Those buttery-forged irons with grooves so sharp they could slice a steak? It’s enough to make any golfer weak in the knees.

And let’s be honest, there’s no greater thrill than seeing "Out for Delivery" pop up on your phone, knowing that within hours you’ll be peeling off the plastic and dreaming of hitting absolute bombs down the fairway. But before we get ahead of ourselves—because let’s face it, golf clubs cost a small fortune these days—there are a few things we really need to consider before making this life-altering (and bank account-draining) decision.

So, before you pull the trigger on that $800 CAD driver or that $1,500 CAD iron set, ask yourself these eight crucial questions:

1) What’s the worst club in my bag?

Sure, that new driver looks amazing, but is your driver really the problem? Maybe your long irons or hybrids have been holding you back, or perhaps your putter has betrayed you so many times that you’d be better off putting with a pool cue. Be honest with yourself: focus on need, not just want.

2) How much can I afford to spend?

Literally what you’re doing buying clubs

Ah yes, the budget talk—about as fun as a three-putt bogey. New clubs aren’t cheap, so figure out what you’re actually willing to spend before you start testing that $1,400 set of irons. And let’s be real, overspending now and “asking for forgiveness later” rarely works—unless, of course, you’re buying TaylorMade’s Stealth series, in which case... totally worth it. “FARGIVNESS”

3) What am I actually hoping to achieve with these new clubs?

Are you upgrading because your current clubs genuinely aren’t performing? Or are you just looking for an excuse to buy something new? Maybe you’re trying to burn your overtime pay before your significant other finds out. Whatever the reason, make sure you know why you’re making this purchase.

4) What type of golfer am I?

Not every club is made for every player. Better players tend to opt for players-distance irons and smaller driver heads for shot shaping, while those looking for more forgiveness should lean toward game-improvement clubs with thicker soles and higher launch angles. Be honest—are you a precision player, or do you just want to launch moonballs off the tee?

5) Are my wedges still doing their job?

Wedges are the most overlooked clubs in the bag. If your grooves are more worn out than your golf glove, it’s probably time for a replacement. But don’t just grab any old wedge—think about how you use them. Do you need more bounce for bunker shots or a lower loft for bump-and-run chips? Each wedge has a job, so choose wisely.

6) Do I want more distance or more accuracy?

We all want to hit bombs. But unless your name is Rory McIlroy, adding 30 yards off the tee is unlikely. What’s more realistic? Tightening your shot dispersion so you actually hit more fairways and greens. A well-placed drive will roll out more than a slice into the rough ever will. Sometimes precision beats power.

7) Do I need less spin or more height?

If you’re even thinking about new clubs, something is off in your game. Are you spinning the ball too much? Not getting enough height? Many golfers benefit from higher launch rather than lower spin, especially if you’re a slower swinger. Knowing the answer here can help you make a smarter choice.

8) Why do I suck at putting?

If you’re missing putts, don’t just blame your stroke—blame your putter (or at least understand why it’s failing you). Are you pushing or pulling putts? Face-balanced putters help keep things square, while toe-hang putters help players who have more arc in their stroke. Knowing your miss can help you find a putter that actually fixes your problem instead of just looking pretty.

Final Thoughts: Be Smart About Your Purchase

Look, I get it. The allure of new clubs is hard to resist. But before you spend thousands thinking you’ll suddenly become the next Tiger Woods (spoiler: you won’t), ask yourself the hard questions. Make a calculated decision, and if you found this guide helpful, share it with your buddy who thinks new clubs will magically fix his slice—maybe it’ll save him from sleeping on the couch after maxing out his credit card.