There is a lot of advice out there about starting the game of golf, choosing the right clubs to improve your game, and so on. Moving to the next level, becoming an advanced player and being a game improver is just as important for many golfers too. Here’s some advice about buying clubs for advanced players.

Closed clubface angle

Most experienced golfers understand and believe that the shorter a driver is, the easier it will be to hit the ball squarely and sweetly. This is true, but it’s less common knowledge – but equally important – to appreciate that using a closed clubface angle also trumps an open clubface.

3-woods

The 3-wood is a key club. If you find that you generally hitting your 3-wood as far as your driver, it will be because your driver hasn’t got enough loft. If this is the case then you have two options: either invest in a new driver with higher loft, or (and probably the better option) because you are used to it already – use your 3-wood as your driver.

Hybrids or fairway woods

It’s accepted wisdom that hybrids are easier to play than other clubs, but game improvement isn’t just about your shots being easier. For instance, hybrids are generally a better option for players that have a deeper swing. However, if your swing normally allows to sweep your shots cleanly off the fairway, then there is no reason why you should move away from fairway woods.

Putters

The most important qualities of a good putter are its loft, length and lie angle. The loft has to be spot on and the sole has to be exactly parallel to the ground at impact for you to achieve optimum putting performance. If you are missing these important characteristics, your putter will push or pull too much.

Wedges

You should think about the type of course you play on the most. For example, courses that have fairly small, elevated and pacey greens call for a pitching wedge with plenty of loft. On the other hand, a course with soft bunkers demands a sand wedge with wider sole and plenty of bounce.