Youth golf equipment checklist

Start small and borrow first

Golf equipment can look intimidating, but a young beginner needs very little. Many programs, driving ranges and courses lend clubs for lessons or camps, and that is a good way to find out if your child enjoys the game before buying anything. If you do buy, used junior clubs are a common and sensible choice because children outgrow them quickly.

Clubs

• Junior or youth clubs: clubs made for children are shorter and lighter than adult clubs. Using adult clubs that are too long or heavy makes it hard to swing well and can build bad habits.
• A small starter set: a driver or hybrid, a couple of irons, a wedge and a putter are plenty for a beginner. Many junior sets come bundled, often in a lightweight bag.
• Length and weight by size: clubs are usually matched to a child's height rather than age. A coach or a golf shop can help check this, and it changes as your child grows.
• Right- or left-handed: let your child pick the side that feels natural when swinging. Ask a coach if you are unsure.

Balls, tees and accessories

• Golf balls: a handful of inexpensive balls is enough to begin with. Beginners lose balls often, so many families buy used or practice balls.
• Tees: wooden or plastic pegs that hold the ball up for the tee shot. Bring several, since they break and get lost.
• Ball markers: small flat discs used to mark the ball's spot on the green.
• Ball-mark repair tool: for fixing the small dents a ball makes on the green.
• Towel and glove: a small towel cleans clubs and balls. A glove is optional and some children prefer to play without one.
• Pencil and scorecard: useful for tracking strokes.

The bag

A light stand bag with a shoulder strap or a pull cart keeps things comfortable. Children should not carry more than they can handle, so keep the load light. Having a few pockets for tees, balls and snacks helps keep everything in one place.

Clothing and footwear

• Comfortable clothes: pick clothing that allows a full swing, in layers for changing weather. Some courses have a dress code, such as collared shirts or no jeans, so check before you go.
• Shoes: golf shoes or sturdy athletic shoes with good grip help prevent slipping on wet grass. Check whether the course restricts any shoe type.
• Hat or visor and sunglasses: help with sun glare.
• Rain jacket: a light waterproof layer keeps a rainy day from ending practice early.

Safety and sun protection

Golf is a low-contact sport, but a club swing and a flying ball deserve respect. Teach your child to stand well clear of anyone swinging, to wait until the group ahead is out of range, and to call out a warning when a ball is heading toward people. Sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water matter on long days outside, and a snack can help energy. Your coach, the course and your child's doctor can offer more specific advice.

Caring for equipment

A few habits keep gear working well and teach responsibility. Wipe clubs with a damp towel after play, keep grips dry, and store clubs indoors rather than in a hot car trunk. Put headcovers back on woods, and check that nothing in the bag is loose or damaged before each outing. A bag that is organized the same way every time also helps a child find the right tee or marker quickly and keep the round moving.

What you can skip at first

Rangefinders, fancy gloves, extra wedges, large travel bags and special training aids are not needed for a first season. If your child loves golf after a few months, you can add pieces slowly, with advice from the coach. Spending little at the start also makes it easier to switch to another sport if golf turns out not to be the right fit.

Fit tips before you buy

1. Ask the coach or program what is recommended before shopping.
2. Try clubs in person if you can, and let your child take a few easy swings.
3. Choose clubs that are a comfortable length now, not clubs to grow into.
4. Check the fit again every season or so, since children grow quickly.
5. Label everything with your child's name to avoid mix-ups at the range.

Learn the game itself in golf rules for beginners, or see how to prepare for golf season. Everything golf is gathered on the golf hub page.