Getting The Right Dimensions For Your First Driver
One of the hardest things to do in sports is to hit a golf ball straight down the fairway off the tee.
There are so many tiny things that need to align perfectly in order to hit a great shot, which includes the dimensions of your driver.
So when looking to buy your first set of clubs, don’t just buy any driver. Buy one that has the proper dimensions tailored to you. Because if you don’t, you’ll be shanking balls left and right.
Here are some aspects you should look at when buying beginners drivers for golf.
Length
The stick part of a club is called the shaft, and getting the right length is crucial.
Too short, and you’ll be hunching over every shot. Too long, and you’ll be chocking up until the club is hitting your stomach.
You can get shafts that are custom fit, but there are a few standard sizes if you’re looking for a cheaper option.
Men:
½” shorter than standard – shorter 5’5”
Standard- 5’5” to 6’1”
Over length- taller than 6’1”
Women:
Petite length- shorter than 5’3”
Standard- 5’3” to 5’7”
Men’s standard- taller than 5’7”
Shaft Flex
The flex of your shaft indicates how stiff or bendy it is.
The harder you swing, the stiffer your shaft should be, so your club doesn’t bend, preventing you from squaring up the ball.
If you have a slower swing, having a more flexible shaft can give you a little extra power.
Therefore, before deciding what flex you need, it is ideal to get your swing speed tested. Stores that specialize in golf equipment will typically be able to do this for you.
If you’re a beginner, you’ll most likely want more flex.
Because even if you have a fast swing, it is best to swing easy when you’re first learning to get the mechanics down.
Here are the different types of flex available and the club speed they designed for:
- L- ladies flex: for swing speeds below 75 mph and carry distance less than 180 yards
- A or M- senior flex: swing speed of 75 to 85 mph and carry distance of 180 to 200 yards
- R- regular flex: for swing speeds of 85 to 95 mph and carry distance of 200 to 240 yards
- S- stiff flex: for swing speeds 95 to 110 mph and carry distance of 240-270 yards
- X- extra stiff flex: for swing speeds 110 mph or higher and carry distance of 270 yards
Club Loft
The loft is the angle of the clubface in relation to the shaft. The higher the angle of the loft, then the higher your shot will be.
Your driver will have the lowest loft angle compared to the rest of your clubs because it is meant to drive the ball as far as possible.
The loft of drivers ranges between 4 degrees and 20 degrees, with most falling between 9 and 13.
If you have a high club speed, you will want a lower loft to take advantage of your swing’s power.
If you have a slower club speed, then a higher loft is the way to go, as the extra height will help you get more distance.
For beginners, it is recommended to go with a higher loft.
Here is a guide for what loft goes with what club speed:
- Below 85 mph: 14 to 20 degree loft
- 86 mph to 94 mph: 12 or 13-degree loft
- 95 mph to 104 mph: 10 to 11-degree loft
- 105 mph to 115mph: 7 to 9-degree loft
- 130 mph and above: 4 to 7-degree loft
Where To Look
Now that you know a little more about drivers, you can start trying to find the right one!
Be sure to test it out when possible.
Most stores will have simulators or netting where you can see how the club feels. Even getting some air swings in is better than nothing.
If you’re not sure where to start, check out this article that lists the best drivers for beginners in 2020.
It contains descriptions and reviews of 5 fantastic drivers!
