Players can only put a maximum of 14 clubs in their golf bag. They need to make strategic decisions about what you take and what to leave behind. It’s often best to get at least one club from each category such as driver, iron, fairway wood, hybrid, putter, and wedge. These feature different golf club angles and other characteristics that make them suitable for specific situations.
Drivers
Drivers are usually the golf club angles in the bag. They also have the largest club head. Both of these traits maximize the impact force that transfers from the club to the ball after a swing. This is crucial since drivers are used during the tee off to get as close to the green as possible. They only have a small loft to make sure that the ball travels far horizontally. The bulbous head has a maximum volume of 460cc.
Fairway Woods
Some holes are long and complex so it can take three shots or more just to get to the green. In this situation, players should bring fairway woods which are slightly shorter and lighter than the driver although they look very similar. They come in different numbers with the loft angle getting bigger with a higher numbered club. This means shorter travel and a higher peak.
Irons
These are mainly for mid and short-range shots although some players also use them for tee off. They are also numbered with the same effect on the loft angle. Their club faces have deep grooves that help in ball control. The heads are thinner which reduces power but increases accuracy.
Hybrids
If you want the best of both worlds, then go for hybrid clubs. These have characteristics of both: the shape of woods and the length of irons. These are easier to hit while providing good distance. Many end up replacing their lower-numbered irons with hybrid equivalents.
Wedges
These look a lot like irons but they are considered to be in their own category because of their high loft angles. They provide more spin, taller peaks, and higher accuracy than other clubs. For example, the sand wedge is useful in getting out of traps and other hazards. The lob wedge, on the other hand, can make the ball go quite high within a short distance which can be vital around the green.
Putters
This has a blade-like head and an almost flat face. It is used to guide the ball to the hole on the green. It requires a soft touch and a stable hand.