Reviews – Golfing Networks https://golfingnetworks.com Golf news & updates Tue, 16 Jun 2026 05:57:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 https://golfingnetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cropped-GN_Favicon-32x32.png Reviews – Golfing Networks https://golfingnetworks.com 32 32 Regripping golf clubs at home: Step-by-step https://golfingnetworks.com/regripping-golf-clubs-at-home-step-by-step/ https://golfingnetworks.com/regripping-golf-clubs-at-home-step-by-step/#respond Tue, 16 Jun 2026 05:57:28 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/regripping-golf-clubs-at-home-step-by-step/

Many of us are happy to hand our clubs over to a trusty PGA professional when they need a regrip; others enjoy the satisfaction of a bit of DIY, which can also save you a few quid.

Regripping golf clubs is a simple enough procedure to do yourself, but there are a few important dos and don’ts to consider. First, let’s ensure you have all the materials you need to begin regripping your golf clubs at home.

What you need to regrip golf clubs

  • White spirit (or similar mineral spirit)
  • Small knife, such as a Stanley
  • Double-sided tape
  • Towel
  • Vice

How to regrip golf clubs: Step-by-step

Step 1: Remove the old grip

First comes the removal of the worn grips. Ideally, you need a vice, as this will help keep the club steady and prevent injury. Make an incision at the narrower end with your knife. This should enable you to pull the old grip off easily, although you may need to repeat this process a few times if it’s stubborn. It’s important that you cut away from your body. The last thing you want to do is rule yourself out of the weekend medal.

regripping golf clubs at home

Step 2: Remove the old tape

Now, remove the old tape underneath. If you leave it on and put the new tape over it, you will end up with a bigger grip. You can use the Stanley to scrape the old tape off like you’re peeling an apple. When it’s all removed, dab an old towel or cloth in white spirit and give the shaft a good rub to ensure you’ve cleaned your golf club properly for the new tape and removed any debris and grime.

Step 3: Install the new tape

Next, you need to install the new double-sided tape. First, lock the shaft into the vice. Using a shaft protector is a good idea at this stage to avoid causing any damage as you tighten it in the vice. It’s crucial that you line up the clubface square, and it’s also wise to measure the tape to the correct length by lining up a grip next to it.

Be sure to leave a slight bit of overhang (approximately half an inch), making it easier to slip the new grip on. Finish this step by smoothing out the tape, making sure there are no wrinkles or bubbles. Pinch together the overhanging bit of tape and poke it into the end of the shaft.

Step 4: Coat in white spirit

Once you have the tape in place, you need to apply the white spirit to the tape. Then, take your new grip, cover the little hole at the end, and pour some in. Be generous, as you can’t use too much. Use your fingers to cover both ends of the grip and swirl the liquid around to coat the inside.

Step 5: Put on the new grip

Now it’s time to slide the new grip on. You’ll need to put this on quickly and ensure it’s seated firmly at the end of the grip – the end cap should not be moving around. The alignment guides, logo, and texture should all be perpendicular to the clubface. You have a limited time to make minor adjustments before it sets firmly. Finish off by tapping the end of the grip on the ground to ensure the cap is seated correctly.

One down, 13 to go.

How do I regrip a golf club? FAQs

What solvent should I use when regripping golf clubs?

White spirit or mineral spirits are frequently used for regripping golf clubs as they’re cheap and often sold at your local hardware shop. However, you may want to consider buying grip solvent, which is specially designed for this purpose, with non-toxic and non-flammable versions available.

How much does it cost to get golf clubs regripped?

The cost of regripping your golf clubs can vary widely depending on the type of grip you want, how many clubs you want to regrip, and whether you’ll regrip them yourself. This can make the costs range from less than £30 to regrip a whole set yourself with budget grips, to potentially hundreds of pounds to have high-end grips fitted professionally.

Is it worth regripping cheap golf clubs?

Even if you have a cheap set of golf clubs, regripping them instead of buying a whole new set can be more cost-effective, especially if the clubs are generally in good condition and you like the feel of playing with them.

How long does regripping golf clubs take?

Regripping your golf clubs should take between 15-30 minutes for each club. Of course, if this is your first time regripping your own clubs, then it may take longer as you get used to and perfect the process. You’ll also want to account for drying time for the adhesive, although this will again vary depending on the type and brand you use, so it’s always best to check the instructions.

Is it easy to regrip golf clubs?

Regripping golf clubs can become a quick and easy process with practice. You might want to practice on an old set of golf clubs first to get used to the steps and understand the technique for getting it right before you work on your current clubs.

Can you regrip golf clubs without tape?

Not all golf grips require tape to keep them in place. Some golf brands, such as Pure and Star grips, are designed to be installed using an air compressor, which expands the grip so that you can fix it in place over your club.

Can you use water to regrip golf clubs?

If you don’t have any white spirit or grip solvent to hand, it is possible to regrip your golf clubs with water and dish soap, although this will take longer to dry. Some tapes are designed to be water-activated, so they require water and dish soap to get the grip on over the tape, then when the water dries up, the adhesive forms a strong hold between the tape and grip.

Can you use masking tape to regrip golf clubs?

Masking tape can work well for regripping your golf clubs at home to increase the grip size. All you need to do is apply the masking tape until you have the size you want for your grip and apply the double-sided tape over the top.

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Now your golf clubs are regripped and ready to get back out on the course, you may want to protect them with specialist golf insurance.

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care includes equipment, Public Liability, and personal accident cover, so you can play with peace of mind that you can get some or all of the costs covered should the worst happen.

Learn more about specialist golf insurance through Golf Care, or get a quick online quote today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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The 10 best electric golf trolleys: A buyer’s guide https://golfingnetworks.com/the-10-best-electric-golf-trolleys-a-buyers-guide/ https://golfingnetworks.com/the-10-best-electric-golf-trolleys-a-buyers-guide/#respond Sun, 03 May 2026 15:34:11 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/the-10-best-electric-golf-trolleys-a-buyers-guide/

One aspect of golf that doesn’t get enough attention is how tiring it can be to spend hours on an 18-hole course. While you won’t exert yourself quite in the same way as you would on the running track, it’s still far from an easy shift to walk up and down hill for a long period of time. If that struggle resonates with you, you might be interested in finding the best electric golf trolley for you.

Electric trolleys, while not for everyone, could make a real difference to your game if you’ve noticed physical exertion having an impact on performance. Carrying a bag full of your clubs is going to be a challenge for lots of players, and there’s only so much help that a manual trolley can offer. If you need to take that next step, an electric solution could be for you.

There are plenty of options to choose from, meaning the best choice for you might be different from your playing partner. Whether you want a trolley you can push yourself, one that’s remote-controlled, or even one that intuitively follows you from hole to hole, there’s something to suit every need.

Here are 10 of the best electric golf trolleys on the market in the UK. We’ll look at what makes them so good and why you should consider giving them a go.

1. PowaKaddy CT6

One of the UK’s best-selling electric golf trolleys, the PowaKaddy CT6 is a perfect starting point.

At 11.85kg, it’s on the lighter side of the spectrum and super compact. The trolley folds 35% smaller than its next smallest competitor on the market, making it incredibly practical for taking to and from the course.

It also promises a 2.8-inch full-colour display, a pleasingly quiet battery, a USB charging port, and simple ease of use.

Available for £749 at Clubhouse Golf, the PowaKaddy CT6 is value for money personified.

2. Motocaddy M5 GPS

What makes the Motocaddy M5 GPS so good is that it does many things well. It really is a jack of all trades, with a lightweight construction, a smooth steering system, and ease of folding and packing.

One of the key differences between the M5 and other, cheaper models is the addition of GPS. On this model, you’ll find a 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen with 40,000 courses preloaded. It’s a superb option if you’d rather keep all your tech in one place. Full hole mapping does require a subscription to Motocaddy’s Performance Plan, though.

On the touchscreen display, you’ll find accurate yardages and an effective guide to notable features on the hole, including hazards and distances to the green. You can also adjust the pin position to make it even more accurate. Away from the GPS, you can track your score and round time using the screen, which is still easy to use with gloves on or in the rain.

The trolley itself is smooth and easy to control thanks to Motocaddy’s 28.8V drive system. When it’s time to pack away, the battery stays in place as the trolley is folded, though the process can feel a little stiff at times. Luckily, with a light weight of 10.5kg, it’s not too heavy to put into your car.

Available for £1,049 at Clubhouse Golf, this is a little more expensive than the more basic options, but you can’t go wrong with the M5.

3. Stewart Golf Vertx Remote

two golfers pushing electric golf trolleys

If ease of use is your absolute priority, then a remote option might be for you – and you won’t find many better than the Vertx Remote from Stewart Golf.

One of the best aspects of the Vertx Remote is its smooth ride, whether you’re using the remote control or pushing it manually. Stewart’s Active Terrain Control contributes to an extremely stable trolley that will face no issues on difficult or awkward terrain. The fact that this is a heavier trolley than some others, weighing in at 14.9kg, actually helps with stability. Furthermore, Stewart’s two-step folding system makes retracting and packing up this trolley nice and easy despite its weight.

There’s no GPS or screen on the Vertx, so if that’s a dealbreaker, then this isn’t the trolley for you. If not, though, it’s one of the best remote-controlled options on the market.

You can find it for £1,599 at Clubhouse Golf.

4. Stewart Golf Q Follow 

Excellent remote options aren’t all that Stewart Golf offers. Their Q Follow is a trolley that follows you on its own.

The idea of an electric trolley that can just follow you around the course is pretty mind-blowing, but this is no gimmick. The Q Follow is excellent at what it does. And if you want the most luxurious trolley available, you can’t do much better than this.

Even on tough terrain, the Q Follow will follow you around, with a retractable stabiliser helping to make that possible. This deploys automatically when the trolley is being set up.

The battery stays in place while the trolley is unfolding, which makes things really easy. Speaking of the battery, it’ll last you for 36 holes too. So there’s no need to worry about it running out of charge mid-way through your game.

Weighing 14kg, it is heavier than some competitors, but the integrated carry handle does offset this a little.

Understandably, amazing technology and a plethora of great features make this a more expensive option. You can find it for £1,799 at Clubhouse Golf. But if you’ve got the cash and demand a trolley that does the work for you, this could be the best electric golf trolley for your needs.

5. Motocaddy SE

Trolleys with all mod cons – and the price tags which come with them – aren’t for everyone. The Motocaddy SE is an electric trolley with value at its heart. For just £499, you can get a trolley that is good at everything it does.

Lightweight? Check. The SE weighs just 9kg. Long-lasting battery life? Check. You’ll get 36 holes out of this trolley. Durable tyres? Check. Smooth ride? Check.

You won’t get a GPS, a screen, or a remote control, but that’s reflected in the price. If you’re just getting into the realm of electric golf trolleys, this might be the best there is. Scottsdale Golf has it available for £499.

6. Motocaddy M7 GPS Remote

With GPS and a remote control, the Motocaddy M7 offers the best of both worlds. It’s really easy to use, with a nice array of features for a lower price than some of its remote competitors.

The 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen display is quite similar to the M5. And like that model, you’ll find 40,000 courses and yardages to greens and hazards, as well as score tracking, performance stats and even full hole mapping without the additional cost of a subscription – as is the case with the M5. 

You’ll also benefit from a cable-free battery in the centre of the chassis (an improvement on this model’s direct predecessor) and a back wheel which stays in place when folding – something its older model also didn’t have.

It is quite heavy at 14.9kg, but the anti-tip wheel means you won’t catch it falling over. This is a great option for golfers who want both GPS and a remote control for their electric golf trolleys. It’s currently available for £1,199 at Clubhouse Golf.

7. Motocaddy ME Remote

If over £1000 is too much of an ask, but you still desire many of the M7’s best features, the ME could be for you.

What you’re essentially getting here is the M7 with its modern, high-performing functionality in an older body. It’s a bit chunkier, a bit less sleek, but just as stable, responsive and easy to navigate. 

The wheels do differ, but all-terrain DHC tyres and an anti-flip wheel mean it’s not going to be unstable, even if you can’t retract that anti-flip wheel. The battery isn’t cable-free here, either, and you won’t find an LCD touchscreen display.

The price reflects that. American Golf is currently selling the ME for £899. And for that money, you’re still getting an excellent electric trolley.

8. Alphard Cybercart

golfer pushing electric golf trolley

There are few smoother, better-controlled electric trolleys than the Alphard Cybercart. Its big advantage is just how responsive the remote functionalities are. This trolley is super responsive and right up there with the best remote options available. In rain or shine, on tricky terrain or otherwise, you won’t find any issues with the Cybercart.

You’ll also get a handful of practical extras. An umbrella holder, cup holder, scorecard holder and sand bottle holder allow for this model to do much more than just carry your clubs.

At 18kg, it is heavy, and you won’t find a GPS here either. However, its control is as good as any trolley on the market. So if lightness and a screen aren’t prerequisites for you, then this is another superb option.

You can currently find it for £1,249 at Alphard Golf.

9. PowaKaddy RX12 GPS

Another trolley that gives you the best of a few worlds, PowaKaddy’s RX12 offers a GPS (and a truly great screen) as well as sleek remote functions.

The screen and its GPS offer everything you’d hope for. And it’s perhaps the most usable touchscreen on the market. The 1.1GHz processor delivers responsiveness akin to a smartphone’s screen, and at five inches, it’s nice and big too. Its portrait orientation also means it won’t get in the way of the handlebars.

The remote is sleek, and the trolley itself moves smoothly over steady terrain. But some golfers do think it’s slightly more awkward over more difficult ground.

It’s another trolley which weighs 14kg, but it’s easy to fold and nice and compact too. HOTGOLF currently has it available for £1,499.

10. MGI Zip Navigator Remote

The final trolley on this list is particularly good at dealing with trickier terrain. Four wheels mean the MGI Zip Navigator Remote is as comfortable in and around slopes and contours as it is on flat ground. Features such as remote lock and downhill speed control only enhance this. You’re in total control at all times.

It weighs 13kg, has enough battery capacity to last over 36 holes, and is nice and compact – even more so when the wheels are retracted, folding it into its storage mode.

American Golf currently sells it for £1,049, and it’s another great option from the remote category.

So, what is the best electric golf trolley?

Ultimately, there’s no one answer. Your best electric golf trolley might look different from someone else’s because there are so many factors at play.

If you want a low price, you might be best opting for the Motocaddy SE. Alternatively, if you desperately require a GPS and touchscreen, you won’t find much better than the PowaKaddy RX12 GPS. The Stewart Golf Q Follow offers mind-blowing tech and absolute ease of use, while the Motocaddy M5 GPS offers a great mix of features.

Whatever it is you need, there’s an electric golf trolley out there for you.

Keen to find more important golf tech? Discover the eight best golf rangefinders.

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Once you’ve chosen your new electric golf trolley, you may want to consider financially protecting yourself and your golf equipment with specialist golf insurance. All claims made through Golf Care in 2025 were for accidental damage to golf equipment, with 79% of those claims relating to golf trolley accidents. Get a quote online today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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What is the handicap for an average golfer? https://golfingnetworks.com/what-is-the-handicap-for-an-average-golfer/ https://golfingnetworks.com/what-is-the-handicap-for-an-average-golfer/#respond Sat, 02 May 2026 03:32:49 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/what-is-the-handicap-for-an-average-golfer/

Handicaps help level the field in golf. Their inclusion in rounds means that, in theory, two golfers of different abilities can compete with one another fairly. But, if you’re a beginner, you may have wondered what the handicap for an average golfer actually is.

In short, it’s a little more complicated than there being just one average handicap. Lots of variables contribute to your handicap, from age and gender to location.

Here, you’ll find the standard ranges for those demographics to see just how close to the average you are.

What is a handicap?

Before delving into what the handicap for an average golfer is, it’s important to fully understand what we actually mean by a handicap and what it’s used for.

A handicap is a means by which golfers can establish their overall skill level, contextualise their scores and compete on a level playing field with players of differing abilities. It’s a number between zero and 54, which is combined with the gross score over the course of a round to create a final, net score. In theory, the lower your handicap, the better the golfer you are.

For many years, countries operated under their own systems for calculating a handicap. But in 2020, the World Handicap System was introduced to standardise handicaps worldwide, assigning golfers a Handicap Index. 

This Handicap Index is based on a golfer’s last 20 rounds and the average of the best eight scores from them. This is then combined with the difficulty of the course to determine how many shots a player receives over the course of a round.

So, for example, if a player with a handicap of 15 played against a player with a handicap of 10, they’d receive a shot on the five hardest holes. This allows them to compete more closely with a player who is – in theory – more skilled.

The handicap for an average golfer

golfer practicing their swing

As previously mentioned, handicaps range from 0 to 54. A player with a handicap of zero is known as a scratch golfer. They would be expected to complete a round to par or better than par.

Players with a handicap of zero or 54 are both rare. Scratch golfers are extremely skilled, and players with a Handicap Index of 54 make up a tiny portion of golfers globally.

England Golf reports that the overall average Handicap Index in the country is 19.37.

Average handicap for different genders

The R&A reports that the average Handicap Index for a male golfer is between 14 and 17, while for a woman it is between 27 and 29.

Specifically, according to England Golf in April 2025, the averages stand at 18.60 for men, 29.33 for women, and 19.37 overall.

This does differ slightly in the USA, 2025’s average Handicap Indexes were 14 for men and 28.8 for women, according to Golf.com.

There are various theories as to why the average handicap for men is lower than that of women. Rather than it simply being down to ability, it’s likely that participation rates, particularly in competitive participation, underpin the disparity.

While the number of women playing golf is rising in England and around the world, it still pales in comparison to that of men. According to England Golf, there were 1.46 million female golfers across the country as of September 2025, with The R&A reporting that there are over 36 million female players globally – but among the 108 million players worldwide, it’s still a small proportion.

Average handicap for different ages

Age also plays a key role in the distribution of handicaps. A Handicap Index between 16 and 20 is expected of men over 60, while women sit around the 30 region, according to England Golf.

It’s important to factor in that the average golf club member is reported to be 53.78 years old for men, but the average goes above 60 for women.

Average handicap for different abilities

golfer swinging their club on a golf course

One of the best things about handicaps is that they’re a great way of establishing your overall golfing ability.

England Golf suggests that the average Handicap Index for beginners is above 28, meaning you’d be expected to complete a course at least 28 strokes over par. So, if you’ve just started out and discover that your Handicap Index is much higher than you’d hoped it might be, don’t worry. This is normal.

Once you start improving, you can expect your handicap to drop below 27. And once you’re more experienced, an average of 14-19 is normal for men.

Between 14 and 28 are the levels at which most players’ Handicap Indexes will remain for the majority of their golfing years – and that’s okay! You’ll likely find that the casual golfer isn’t completing most holes to par. Bogeys are normal, as are double bogeys.

If you want to improve further, a handicap between 10 and 13 is really good, and between one and nine is absolutely excellent. Then there’s zero and below – the score of scratch golfers expected to complete a course either to par or under par.

Making it to the level of a scratch golfer is incredibly rare. The United States Golf Association reports that less than 1% of its players are scratch golfers. If you’re one of the rare few who make it to that hugely high level, don’t expect any favours on the course!

Key things to remember

The key point to remember is that the average Handicap index is closely linked to specific factors. It’s different for men and women, Brits and Americans, and players of different ages.

It’s also worth remembering that the majority of golfers are not at the extreme ends of the spectrum. You may have a Handicap Index of 54 at first, but it likely won’t stay this way for long. Similarly, you likely won’t encounter too many players with Handicap Indexes close to zero.

Most golfers will stay within 14 and 28, and that’s absolutely normal. Wherever your Handicap Index sits, it’s a great means by which you can keep track of your progress and compete with opponents of every level.

And if you’re playing with a high handicap, here are a few tips for choosing the best irons.

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Before you start working on lowering your handicap, you may want to consider protecting yourself and your golf equipment with specialist golf insurance. Get a quote online today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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Arc vs straight through putting strokes: Your complete guide https://golfingnetworks.com/arc-vs-straight-through-putting-strokes-your-complete-guide/ https://golfingnetworks.com/arc-vs-straight-through-putting-strokes-your-complete-guide/#respond Mon, 20 Apr 2026 01:39:19 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/arc-vs-straight-through-putting-strokes-your-complete-guide/

For many golfers, putting can be an afterthought. A part of their game that’s rarely given enough attention, compared to the likes of driving and teeing off. Yet putting is just as technical – described as a ‘game within the game’ – that you’ll need to master in order to be a well-rounded golfer.

If you want to be ruthless on the green and capitalise on your successful approaches, you’ll need to devote time to putting. And that includes experimenting with which putting style works best for you. Here, we’ll explain what the difference is between straight-through putting and arc putting, and we’ll give you tips on how you can try each to see which style gives you the best results.

 

What is a straight-through putting stroke?

golf ball and putter on the green

With a straight-through stroke – also often called straight back, straight through (SBST) – you’re attempting to keep the putter moving straight along the target line throughout the putting stroke.

If you’re standing over your ball with your putter in hand, imagine a straight line running through the ball. Your backswing will travel along that line, as will your follow-through. Your club should strike the ball at a 90-degree angle (right angle) with the face flat. Imagine a pendulum-like motion, swinging smoothly back and forth along a straight line.

The theory with straight-through putting is that, as the putter travels straight and the face stays square, the ball should start on line, allowing you to more easily line up your putts. It’s a very controlled style of putting that should ideally give consistent results.

However, executing straight-through strokes perfectly is more complex than it sounds, as most golfers have some degree of arc (deviation from a straight line) in their putts. This is caused by their body mechanics, swing motion, and even the geometry of the putter.

 

What is an arc putting stroke?

Rather than a straight line, an arc putting stroke follows a gentle curve during the motion of the putter head.

If you’re standing over your ball, imagine a straight line running through it again. However, on your backswing, your putter will move in an arc that travels slightly inside this target line. Your swing returns to the line at impact, and then moves back inside the line on your follow-through. Your club face should open slightly on the backswing, strike the ball flat, then close slightly on the follow-through.

This curving movement isn’t arbitrary. It’s a result of natural biomechanics. Because the putter shaft is angled and your shoulders rotate around your spine, the club naturally swings on a tilted plane, creating an arc.

Although it may seem more complicated than straight-through putting, the idea with arc putting is that it follows a more natural motion and is more achievable than following a straight line, especially on longer putts. 

 

How to perform a straight-through putting stroke

To practice straight-through putting, you should:
 
1. Form a square setup, with:

  • Your eyes directly over the ball
  • Your shoulders parallel to the target line
  • The ball positioned centrally

2. Keep the putter on line:

  • Visualise a straight target line running through the ball
  • Picture the putter moving straight back along this target line
  • Use alignment aids or a putting mirror if you need to

3. Minimise face rotation:

  • Keep the putter face square throughout your swing
  • Focus on a smooth “pendulum” motion

4. Control the movement with your shoulders:

  • As you swing, rock with your shoulders evenly
  • Keep your wrists stable

5. Maintain a straight follow-through:

  • Extend the putter down the target line after impact
  • Avoid pulling across the ball

 

How to perform an arc putting stroke

To practice arc putting, you should:

1. Set up carefully:

  • Position your ball slightly forward of centre
  • Stand with your eyes slightly inside the ball
  • Let your arms hang naturally

2. Focus on your shoulder rotation:

  • Think of your shoulders rocking, not your hands
  • Avoid any extraneous wrist movement

3. Allow yourself to follow the natural arc of your swing:

  • Let the putter move slightly inside on the takeaway
  • Don’t try to ‘keep it straight’. Trust the motion

4. Square the face at impact

  • The goal of your swing is to make sure the putter’s face is squared at the point of impact
  • Let the putter release naturally

5. Match your backswing and your follow-through

  • Your backswing and follow-through should be symmetrical on either side of your ball
  • Maintain a consistent rhythm and avoid deceleration through the ball

 

Which putting style is right for you: arc vs straight-through?

Golfer putting a golf ball into the hole

The simple answer is the one that works best for you.

Arc putting tends to be a more natural approach for many golfers, which results in a more fluid swing. However, some golfers will get better results by perfecting a straight-through putting style, benefitting from the control it offers.

Some golfers even find they can vary their putting approach, using an arc stroke for longer shots and straight-through putting for shorter shots (as it can be harder to achieve a straight line on longer swings). However, varying like this can be difficult, and isn’t usually recommended for beginner players.

The reality is that most golfers have some degree of arc during their swing, even if they consider themselves straight-through putters. Often, the real difference between the two styles is a subtle one in how much arc is present.

It’s a good idea to film your stroke from above, if you can, or to use putting aids such as alignment sticks around your putter to find out whether you naturally tend more towards arc or straight-through putting. Once you know which, you can focus on perfecting your putting with the style that suits you best.

 

Matching putters to your putting style

Once you have an idea of which putting style you prefer, you can also find the right putter to suit it, further helping to improve your game:

  • Straight-through stroke: Typically suits face-balanced putters, as these are designed to stay square during the stroke.
  • Arc stroke: Typically suits toe-hang putters, as these are designed to rotate naturally, which suits the arc motion.

However, as with your stroke style, choosing the right putter for you is also a question of experimentation to find what works best for your game.

 

Finding your putting style

No single putting style is arbitrarily better than the other. One of either arc or straight-through putting may suit your game better, or you may find you can use either style for different putts.   

The key is to stop forcing a technique that fights your natural motion. Instead, understand your stroke, match your equipment, and build a repeatable process so you can approach your putts with the confidence that comes from knowing you can control the line of your ball.

 

Arc vs straight-through putting FAQs

Which putting stroke is more common?

Whilst many golfers begin with straight-through putting, arc putting is usually more common as it aligns with how the body naturally moves during the stroke and typically leads to more fluid swings.

Which is easier, arc or straight-through putting?

As arc strokes follow a more natural movement of the body, many golfers find arc putting easier. However, this is a personal preference, and plenty of golfers prefer straight-through putting. Which style is easier will depend on you.

Is straight back and straight through (SBST) putting a myth?

Not entirely, but a perfectly straight stroke is extremely difficult to achieve. Most golfers will always have some degree of arc due to the angle of the putter and shoulder rotation. In reality, the difference between SBST and arc putting is more of a spectrum than two polar opposite approaches. 

Do professionals use arc or straight strokes?

Most professional golfers use a slight arc, although the amount varies. Very few players use a completely straight stroke, amateur or professional.

Why was anchored putting banned?

Anchored putting, where the putter is fixed against the body (such as the chest or chin), was banned by the R&A and USGA in 2016.

The governing bodies determined that anchoring reduced the challenge of the stroke by removing the need to control the club freely, which they felt was a fundamental skill in golf. The ban specifically targets the act of anchoring, not the use of long putters themselves.

Does AimPoint putting actually work?

Yes, AimPoint can be highly effective when used correctly.

AimPoint is a green-reading system that uses feel and slope percentages to determine break. Many tour professionals rely on it because it provides a structured, repeatable way to read greens.

However, its effectiveness depends on your ability to use it effectively.  For amateur golfers, AimPoint can be extremely helpful, but only if you commit to learning the system properly.

 

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Before you head out onto the course to practice your putting strokes, you may want to consider protecting yourself and your golf equipment with specialist golf insurance. Get a quote online today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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How to become a golf pro (step-by-step guide) https://golfingnetworks.com/how-to-become-a-golf-pro-step-by-step-guide/ https://golfingnetworks.com/how-to-become-a-golf-pro-step-by-step-guide/#respond Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:32:25 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/how-to-become-a-golf-pro-step-by-step-guide/

If you’re already a skilled golfer, we can’t say we blame you for researching how to become a golf pro.

There’s no better time to join the industry, with the number of golfers in the UK continuing to grow and the 2025 golf rule changes demonstrating how much the game is consistently evolving.

But what defines a ‘golf pro’? The term can be confusing, as it refers to both professional golfers and those who work within the business side of golf.

We cover how to become a golf professional, alongside how to take steps towards becoming a professional golfer if this is your goal.

 

Table of contents:

 

What is a golf pro?

There’s some confusion around who qualifies as a ‘golf professional’, as anyone who is a golf expert and involved in either teaching or playing golf at a professional level could be considered a ‘golf pro’.  

However, it’s widely accepted that there is a difference between golf professionals and professional golfers.

Golf professionals typically work in the business or management side of golf or teach or coach amateur or professional golfers.

Then, there are professional golfers who compete in high-profile tournaments like the Masters and the PGA Tour.

Many pro golfers follow the route of becoming a golf professional beforehand, as they have a strong involvement with their club growing up and decide to get certified.

But equally, many start as amateurs and rely on their talent to get noticed.

We’ve covered all pathways in this guide on how to become a golf pro, so you can weigh up your options and take actionable steps to progress your career.

 

Types of golf professionals

how to become a golf pro

Hoping to work in the business side of golf? If so, it makes sense to get an overview of the roles available if you gain employment at a golf club and decide to become a PGM Associate.

To give you an idea of the different types of golf professionals, the PGA suggests that those who complete their qualifications fulfil one or more of the following roles:

  • a qualified teacher or coach
  • a knowledgeable retailer
  • a customer advisor
  • a specialist club fitter
  • a manager of services, products, facilities, and people
  • a tournament organiser
  • a good player

 

Hopefully, this gives you a good overview of your career prospects.

Regarding job titles, the highest level at a club is typically Head Professional, followed by Associate Professional. They usually manage the club and other employees who work there.

The alternative route is becoming a Teaching Professional, which is a more practical role overall and mainly involves coaching clients.

Head Professional and Teaching Professional roles can sometimes interlink depending on the club, but there is room to specialise in one area over the other.

 

How to become a golf professional

The path to becoming a golf professional isn’t complicated. Still, it requires a high level of skill and dedication to your development as a player, even if you decide to work business side.

Professional golfing is certainly on the cards for those who go down this route, as long as they’re equipped with the skills to compete at an elite level.

Here’s a quick overview of the path to becoming a golf professional in the UK.

 

1. Complete the PGM Associate Program

Every golf club has a Head Professional overseeing its operations, including managing the course and other employees.

This role carries a large responsibility and is the most advanced path you can reach when learning how to become a golf pro outside of competing in tournaments.

Suppose you want to eventually become a Head Professional through the PGA. In that case, you’ll need to complete their PGM Associate Program and become an Associate Professional before you can climb through the ranks. This involves:

  • a background check
  • passing a qualifying test
  • gaining employment as an Associate Professional
  • completing the player ability test (PAT)

This could be helpful if you want to become a pro golfer, as the PAT test is a great way to prove your skill in the sport.

However, as mentioned earlier, you don’t technically require this to enter tournaments and get noticed.

 

2. Complete a golf-related bachelor’s degree

Gaining a PGA qualification is a popular route to becoming a golf professional in the UK, as their degree programmes are the most respected golf qualifications in the world.

If you’re hoping to work business side and want to climb the ranks once you graduate, this could be the best route for you.

A foundation degree in Golf Studies (FdSc) is available at the University of Birmingham and can be converted into a BSc (Hons) in Professional Golf Studies.

The University of the Highlands and Islands also runs a Diploma in Higher Education Golf Studies (DipHE), which can be converted into a BA in Professional Golf, with an option to continue to Hons.

You can also study a BSc in Applied Golf Management Studies taught in partnership with the University of Birmingham, which grants you membership as a PGA Professional subject to status and application.

 

3. Progress through PGA titles

There is the opportunity for development once you’ve qualified as a PGA Member through gaining more experience, education, achievements, and accreditations.

The first option is to move from ‘Class A’ to ‘Class AA’ status, which involves gaining 100 CPD points within three years through suggested professional development.

However, if you reach the age of 55 and haven’t progressed from Class AA status, you will remain at this level for life.

Aside from these initial titles, you can also apply for any of the following:

  • PGA advanced professional—meets relevant criteria and has been qualified for a minimum of three years
  • PGA fellow professional—meets the relevant criteria and has been qualified for a minimum of eight years
  • PGA advanced fellow professional—meets the relevant criteria and has been qualified for a minimum of ten years
  • PGA master professional—meets the relevant criteria and has been qualified for a minimum of fifteen years

As you’ve probably gathered, many professional golf players will hold a PGA qualification, so the two pathways often interlink.

But not all skilled players who qualify will go on to become professional golfers, and you also don’t need to qualify to become one, either.

 

How to become a professional golfer

how to become a pro golfer

If you’re a highly skilled player dedicated to your growth in the sport, then there’s a chance you could become a pro golfer if you set your mind to it.

Since the PGA Tour is the world’s largest professional golf tournament organiser, it makes sense for us to discuss how to reach this level of competition—entering these tournaments is the most popular end goal for aspiring golfers.

The steps themselves are quite simple. It’s what’s involved in the process that makes it easier said than done.

You need to be great at what you do, extremely driven, and prepared to put the rest of your life on hold if you want to make it. Here are the next steps if you think you’ve got what it takes.

 

1. Get up to professional standard

Most players fall at the first hurdle, as this is certainly one part that’s easier said than done. But if you can overcome the challenge of mastering golf, you’re already halfway there.

Recruiting a coach is a good idea if you can afford the investment. With their guidance, you can establish a solid training programme to perfect your technique and improve faster than working alone.

The game is massively competitive, especially since many golfers start young. But if you’ve got the grit and determination to consistently work on every element of your game, you’ll overtake those who give up too soon.

 

2. Take a swing at amateur events

Once you’ve achieved a high standard and proven your skill in a few friendly competitions at your local club, it’s time to progress to more formal events.

Wondering where to start? Using the Golf Empire search tool, you can browse over 10,000 amateur open golf tournaments at more than 1,500 golf clubs in the UK.

You can also check out amateur golf tours and series for when you feel you’re good enough to enter.

You can usually enter as many or as few events as you wish, meaning you can get a taste of what is expected at these events without committing to the full thing.

It’s easier said than done, but a huge part of learning how to become a professional golfer is dominating amateur competitions.

Progressing through the ranks will get you noticed and potentially lead to you being invited to or qualifying for a more prestigious event—this is how many golfers go professional.

 

3. Commit to going professional

If you reach the point where you’re consistently performing well in amateur competitions and you’re determined enough to take your career further, this is where you can take things to the next level.

Only you can decide whether or not you’re ready to go pro, as golf differs from other sports where you’re signed up to a team. You essentially decide to compete in professional events instead of their amateur counterparts.

You should be at the best level you can be before registering for professional events, however, as they are usually very expensive to enter and highly competitive.

In the UK, the easiest transition into professional events is becoming a PGA member and entering the PGA Open series, most of which have a £100 registration fee and a £20,000 prize fund.

Taking this leap of faith is a big step, but it’s worth a shot if you know you have what it takes and can afford to do so.

Don’t let age be a hurdle if you’re a great golfer, as there have been many late bloomers before. It’s a matter of dedication and skill above all else.

Take U.S. golfer Allen Doyle, for example—he turned pro at 46, proving it’s never too late to chase your dreams if you stay focused.

 

4. Sign up for Q-school

Finishing in the top 25 on the Korn Ferry Tour is a surefire way to earn a PGA Tour card, but you can only enter this tour if you go to Q-school first.

This process involves competing over four months to finish in one of the top 25 spots, which earns you an unconditional place on the Korn Ferry Tour. However, you can still get a conditional place if you finish in the 26-50 range.

If you compete well enough to finish in the top five of the final stage of Q-school, you can gain your PGA Tour card this way instead of competing in the Korn Ferry Tour.

 

5. Compete in the Korn Ferry Tour

If you’ve come this far, you’ve already become a professional golfer, but there’s much more to achieve if you keep pushing on.

The Korn Ferry Tour sits just beneath the PGA Tour, and making it to the finals and finishing in the top 25 guarantees you a spot. Finishing in the 26-50 range gives you a conditional status, and you’ll still have a chance to make your debut.

 

6. Reach PGA Tour player status

This is likely one of the most important stages of your career.

If you finish in the top 25 at the Korn Ferry Tour or secure your card through a conditional status, you’ll get a chance to compete amongst the world’s most elite golf players.

This will be no mean feat. But now that you know the steps involved, you can devise a step-by-step plan to achieve this level. SMART goals are a great way to ensure progress.

 

7. Keep your spot on the PGA Tour

While you’ve likely achieved your wildest dreams at this stage, now is not the time to get complacent.

To make your hard work pay off, you should do everything it takes to ensure you keep your spot as one of the 125 best players in the sport.

You’ll be standing on golf’s world stage, and you may never make it back if you let your game slip.

Avoid injuries at all costs, maintain your confidence, and never underestimate the importance of keeping up to speed through practice.

Winning high-profile competitions such as the Players Championship or The Masters solidifies your status as a top golfer and can even guarantee your spot on the PGA Tour for years at a time.

If you win the Players Championship, you receive a five-year exemption, a three-year invite to the Masters, and a three-year exemption for the Open and the PGA Championship.

 

Salaries in golf 

golf professional salary

If you’re considering a career in golf, it’s natural to want to know exactly how much you could earn.

Leaning towards the golf professional route? According to Glassdoor:

  • an Assistant Golf Professional earns £27k per year on average and up to £48k per year with experience
  • a Head Golf Professional earns £25k per year on average and up to £73k per year with experience

If your end goal is becoming a professional golfer, the amount you’ll earn is understandably difficult to pin down.

Tiger Woods has the highest career earnings on the PGA Tour at $120,954,766, to give you an idea of how lucrative this career path can be.

 

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

As with any sport, the road to becoming a professional in golf is challenging, and accidents can happen. That’s why you may want to consider specialist golf insurance.

With specialist golf insurance through Golf Care, policies include Equipment Cover up to £7,500 and Public Liability up to £10m, so you can practice with complete peace of mind.

Get an instant online quote.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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How to hit a fairway wood like a pro https://golfingnetworks.com/how-to-hit-a-fairway-wood-like-a-pro/ https://golfingnetworks.com/how-to-hit-a-fairway-wood-like-a-pro/#respond Fri, 17 Apr 2026 01:24:50 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/how-to-hit-a-fairway-wood-like-a-pro/

Learning how to hit a fairway wood could transform your golfing game in par-five or particularly long par-four holes. Gaining the ability to reach the green in just a couple of strokes is a hugely significant advantage, and mastering the required technique could result in your handicap shooting down.

But it’s not easy. If you find yourself topping your fairway woods or struggling to get them off the ground, this guide is for you. Who knows – getting to grips with one of the trickiest clubs to use could be the key to moving to the next level.

 

Where to use a fairway wood

The first thing to understand when learning how to hit with a fairway wood is when to use it.

A fairway wood – particularly a 3-wood – is primed for use once you’ve teed off and have found yourself in the middle of the fairway on par five holes. Or even par four holes, which are particularly long. The aim of the game with a fairway wood is to fire yourself within touching distance of the green, rather than getting all the way there.

This makes them especially useful for these longer holes.

You can also tee off with a fairway wood; however, the technique required differs slightly from when it’s used off the ground on the fairway.

 

How do you hit a fairway wood?

Woman hitting a fairway wood on the golf course

Once you’ve recognised that you’re in the correct position to use the fairway wood, it’s time to get out your club – and it’s a long one. There’s a high chance the fairway wood is the longest club in your bag, and this is part of what makes the technique so challenging.

Instinctively, you might want to swing upwards and lift the ball to maximise the height and distance of your shot. But striking the ball upwards could result in you hitting the ground before the ball or topping the ball.

Instead, you want to be hitting down into the ball. And the first step to getting this right is practising the correct stance.

The stance

When using a fairway wood, a wide stance – with your feet a little wider than shoulder width – will help you hit down on the ball.

The ball should be positioned slightly forward in your stance, approximately one ball length to the left of centre. This will also help you achieve the downward angle of attack necessary to get the most out of the club.

Your sternum should be positioned in line with and over the top of the clubhead so that your stance is nice and straight. You don’t want to lean back, as this will make it harder to hit down on the ball.

The ideal contact

Because it’s such a long club, correctly gauging how the club is going to make contact with the ball can be one of the trickiest parts of using a fairway wood.

Try placing the clubhead on the floor behind the ball to help you do this. You’re going to be making contact with the ball first, before following through to make a little divot in the ground after you’ve hit the ball.

You’ll notice that the fairway wood is quite flat. This prevents the club from digging into the ground and making a much larger and more noticeable impact on the turf.

Now you know what to expect when the ball makes contact, it’s time to think about the swing.

The swing

You can compare the swing of a fairway club to that of a 7-iron. The most important thing is to let the club do the work. There’s no need to attack the ball really quickly, because the club is already weighted towards the back. A nice, consistent and smooth swing is going to help you maximise the distance of your shot much better than just hitting the ball as hard as you can.

What you don’t want to do during your swing is lean back. You instead want to move your bodyweight to the left so that you’re moving with the swing and allowing the club to work for you instead of the other way around. Aim to shift your weight onto your left foot by pressing it into the ground.

While you’re hitting down towards the ball, you want to keep your club low. You’ll know it’s a good shot when you’ve made that small divot in the ground just after contact, or if you’ve just scuffed the grass.

A good drill to help get to grips with this idea of keeping the club low and making your divot only after the ball has been hit is to put a tee peg all the way into the ground, a little over an inch in front of the ball. After you’ve made contact with the ball, focus on trying to bring that tee peg up.

 

How to hit a fairway wood off the tee

From the tee, your technique with a fairway wood is different because the ball is above the ground. This gives you more freedom to drop your right shoulder and hit the ball more upward.

In this case, position the ball slightly further to the left so that it’s closer to your left foot than the centre of your stance. From tee, you don’t need to worry about creating that divot in the floor either.

The key points to remember

When using a fairway wood in the fairway, don’t let its length deceive you. You might instinctively want to place the ball really far in front of your stance, but the length of a golf ball is all that’s really required.

Keep your stance relatively neutral. Don’t lean back – you’re not trying to hit up on the ball. Instead, hit down on it. And after making contact with the ball, aim to make a small divot in the ground.

Don’t rush the swing or try to hit the ball too hard. Let the club do the work, shift your weight, and focus on a consistent swing. 
That’s how to hit a fairway wood and really shoot yourself towards the green on those longer holes.

 

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Now you know how to hit a fairway wood correctly, you may want to consider protecting yourself and your golf equipment with specialist golf insurance. Get a quote online today.

 

 

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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The 5 best irons for high handicappers https://golfingnetworks.com/the-5-best-irons-for-high-handicappers/ https://golfingnetworks.com/the-5-best-irons-for-high-handicappers/#respond Wed, 15 Apr 2026 13:14:16 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/the-5-best-irons-for-high-handicappers/

Golf is about precision, patience and incremental improvement. But for high handicappers, it can often feel like a test of endurance rather than enjoyment, especially when approach shots fail to find the green or consistency proves elusive. One of the most effective ways to improve both your performance and your confidence is by choosing the right set of irons.

Modern golf equipment is designed with a wide range of players in mind, and high handicappers in particular can benefit enormously from irons that prioritise forgiveness, distance and ease of use. The right irons won’t magically fix your swing, but they will make mis-hits more playable and good shots more rewarding.

To help you find the right clubs for your game, here we’ll break down what irons are, how to choose the optimal ones for you, and highlight five of the best irons for high handicappers currently available.

 

What are irons, and what are they used for?

golfer swinging an iron

Irons are versatile clubs with solid, angled heads usually made from iron or steel. They’re used to make approach shots from the fairway or rough towards the green, usually from 120 to 160 yards or more.

Iron clubs are numbered from 3 to 9 (3-iron, 4-iron, 5-iron, etc.), with lower-numbered clubs designed for lower-lofted shots at longer distances, while higher-numbered clubs offer more loft and control. Each iron is engineered to produce a specific trajectory and distance, allowing you to select the appropriate one for the approach shot you need to play – learning which iron to take out of your bag is central to lowering your handicap.

For high handicappers, irons are often the most frequently used clubs during a round. Choosing the right clubs for your game – ones that fit you and complement your skill level – can make a big impact on your handicap.

 

How to choose the right irons for you

Finding the right irons for you can be a daunting prospect given the variety of options available. However, high handicappers should focus on a few key characteristics that can make a meaningful difference, like:

1. Forgiveness

Forgiveness refers to how well a club performs on off-centre strikes. Game improvement irons, designed specifically for higher handicap players, feature larger clubheads, perimeter weighting, and wider soles. These features help maintain distance and accuracy even when contact isn’t perfect.

2. Launch and loft

High handicappers can struggle to consistently get the ball airborne. Irons with a lower centre of gravity and stronger lofts can help promote higher launch and longer carry distances, which can be particularly beneficial for players with slower swing speeds.

3. Shaft type

Most irons’ shafts are made of either steel or graphite. Graphite shafts are lighter and can help increase swing speed, making them a popular choice for beginners or those with slower tempos. Steel shafts, on the other hand, offer more control and durability, but are usually suited to more experienced players.

4. Set composition

Many modern iron sets replace long irons (like the 3 or 4-irons) with hybrids, which are easier to hit. High handicappers should consider hybrid-iron sets, as they provide more consistency and confidence.

5. Custom fitting

Even at a beginner level, a basic custom fitting can significantly improve your results. Factors such as shaft length, lie angle and grip size all influence how well you strike the ball. Investing time in a fitting session can ensure your irons are tailored to your swing, even if you’re just getting into the game.

 

The five best irons for high handicappers

iron next to a ball on the golf course

Below are five of our picks for standout iron sets that offer the kind of performance and forgiveness that high handicap players will benefit from:

1. Callaway Big Bertha B21 Irons

The Big Bertha B21 irons are specifically engineered for golfers who struggle with consistency and slicing. The irons feature a wide sole and a low centre of gravity, making it easier to launch the ball high and straight.

The inclusion of perimeter weighting increases forgiveness across the face, while the club’s design promotes a draw bias, helping to counteract slicing. For high handicappers seeking maximum assistance, this set is among the most user-friendly options on the market.

2. TaylorMade SIM2 Max Irons

Combining the latest in technology with a sleek, no-nonsense design, the SIM2 Max irons offer both performance and a refined visual appeal. These irons are well known for their explosive distance, thanks to a flexible face that maximises ball speed, but are most renowned for being beginner-friendly and potentially the most forgiving TaylorMade clubs.

The SIM2 Max irons feature an oversized club head and a wider sole, plus TaylorMade’s “Cap Back” design, which enhances stability and forgiveness without sacrificing feel. High handicappers will appreciate the irons’ high launch and consistent performance, even on less-than-perfect strikes.

3. Ping G425 Irons

Ping has long been synonymous with forgiveness, and the G425 irons really drive that home. The clubs feature a shorter blade length and a Variable Face Thickness (VFT) design, resulting in a very stable, forgiving clubhead that delivers fast ball speeds.
 
The G425 irons also provide excellent sound and feel. Their ability to deliver consistent distance and accuracy makes them a strong choice for players looking to reduce variability in their game and improve their approach shots.

4. Cobra Air-X Irons

Designed with lightweight performance in mind, the Cobra Air-X irons are ideal for players with slower swing speeds. The lighter clubhead and shaft combination helps generate more speed, which translates into greater distance, whilst making the irons easier to handle and swing than traditional irons.

Cobra Air-X irons also feature offset hosels, which help square the clubface at impact, reducing slices and promoting straighter shots. If you struggle to generate power, the Air-X set offers a significant boost in confidence.

5. Wilson Launch Pad Irons

The Wilson Launch Pad irons are among the most forgiving irons available today. Their hollow-body construction and ultra-wide soles effectively float above the turf, making it far easier to get the ball airborne.

These irons are particularly well-suited for players who have difficulty with traditional long irons. The design virtually eliminates fat shots and provides a smooth interaction with the turf. For high handicappers seeking simplicity and reliability, the Launch Pad irons are an excellent choice.

 

Finding the right irons for your game

When it comes to improving your handicap, having the right clubs in your bag can make a big impact. A set of irons designed for forgiveness, higher launch, and ease of use can help you build consistency and confidence, reduce frustration, and enjoy the game more.

When choosing irons, focus on features that support your current ability rather than your aspirational performance. Forgiveness, lightweight design, and proper fitting should be your top priorities. The five iron sets highlighted in this guide represent some of the best options available, each offering unique advantages tailored to high handicappers. But ultimately, the best iron set for you is one that feels comfortable, inspires confidence, and helps you achieve more consistent results. 

 

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Once you’ve invested in a new set of irons to work on improving your handicap, you may also want to consider protecting your investment with specialist golf insurance. That way, you can have peace of mind at all times while out on the course. Get a quote online today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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The 8 best golf gangefinders https://golfingnetworks.com/the-8-best-golf-gangefinders/ https://golfingnetworks.com/the-8-best-golf-gangefinders/#respond Tue, 14 Apr 2026 01:12:44 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/the-8-best-golf-gangefinders/

Golf is a game with a history well over 500 years, and one that’s still steeped in tradition today. But it’s also a sport that embraces technology and gadgets. A rangefinder is one of the best pieces of kit any golfer can carry in their bag to help sharpen their game and lower their handicap.

Whether you’re a weekend player looking to break 90 or a seasoned golfer chasing marginal gains, investing in the right rangefinder can make a measurable difference by helping you make better decisions during play. Here, we’ll explain what rangefinders do, why they matter and what features to prioritise. We’ll also give you our recommendations for the eight best golf rangefinders currently for sale.

 

What is a golf rangefinder, and why are they useful?

a man using a rangefinder on the golf course

Golf rangefinders are handheld devices that allow you to measure the distance between yourself and a specific target, like the flag, a target area on the green, a bunker, or another hazard. Almost all rangefinders use laser technology to provide highly accurate readings, often with a precision of plus or minus one yard.

This level of accuracy can be a huge help, as distance control is one of the biggest factors influencing scoring. Many amateur golfers consistently leave approach shots short, largely because they underestimate yardage. And even more experienced golfers can consistently misjudge distances.

Rangefinders help eliminate distance guesswork and can help you to:

  • Get exact yardage to the flag
  • Adjust for elevation changes (via slope technology)
  • Identify hazards and carry distances
  • Make more confident club selection decisions

A rangefinder turns uncertainty into data-driven decision-making that can benefit golfers of all levels.

 

What to look for in a rangefinder?

Choosing the right rangefinder isn’t just about price. When it comes to finding the best golf rangefinder for you, you also need to consider design, usability and how the features offered could benefit you. When comparing rangefinders, consider:

1. Accuracy and range

Look for devices with an accuracy of ±1 yard and a range of at least 800–1,200 yards. This ensures reliable readings across all the distances you’re likely to measure when playing.

2. Slope compensation features

Slope-adjusted distances account for elevation changes, giving “plays like” yardages, which can be a huge help when playing on uneven surfaces. However, some tournaments don’t allow this feature during play, so a rangefinder that can toggle slope compensation on and off is advised.

3. Pin/flag lock technology

This feature helps isolate the flag from background objects, often with vibration feedback when locked onto the target, so you can be confident you’re measuring to the right point.

4. GPS integration

Many rangefinders also integrate GPS connectivity, meaning you can also precisely locate yourself on a hole as well as measure with a laser. This gives you two ways to estimate distances, so you can do so with even more confidence.

5. Optics and magnification

Clear optics (typically 6x magnification) improve visibility and make it easier to lock onto distant targets.

6. Wind and environmental adjustments

Some rangefinders can adjust measurements to account for weather conditions, which can be particularly useful given the variability of British weather.

7. Build quality and durability

You want a rangefinder that will last, not one that conks out when you’ve grown used to it. Look at reviews to gauge durability and consider features such as water resistance and rubberised grips.

8. Batteries and charging

Some rangefinder models use replaceable batteries, while others are rechargeable. Pick whichever you prefer and choose based on convenience.

 

Our top 8 best golf rangefinders

A boy using a rangefinder on the golf course

Our pick for the best laser golf rangefinders currently on the market:

1. Best overall rangefinder: Bushnell Tour V6

The Bushnell Tour V6 is widely considered the benchmark in golf rangefinders, combining exceptional accuracy, fast target acquisition, and Bushnell’s signature “JOLT” vibration feedback.

With slope-adjusted distances and great build quality, it’s ideal for serious golfers who want tour-level performance without paying ultra-premium prices.

2. Best premium rangefinder: MILESEEY GenePro G1 Rangefinder

This is a superb next-generation rangefinder that blends laser precision with GPS mapping and touchscreen functionality. It’s designed for golfers who want a fully integrated experience, offering pretty much everything a rangefinder can, including course visuals and advanced analytics.

3. Best smart rangefinder: Arccos Smart Laser Rangefinder

A high-end rangefinder packed with useful features. The Arccos Smart Laser Rangefinder is an AI-powered device designed to go beyond traditional distance measurement by providing “Plays Like” yardage based on real-time environmental data, giving you the most help possible when judging distances.

It integrates directly with the Arccos app to enhance club tracking and course strategy, aiming to bridge the gap between AI performance analysis and on-course hardware – combining a rangefinder and performance tracker into one device.

4. Best value for money rangefinder: Shot Scope Pro L2 Rangefinder

A budget-friendly rangefinder, but one still offering plenty of functionality. The Shot Scope Pro L2 is a high-performance laser rangefinder with a 700-yard range, x6 magnification, and target lock with vibration. It includes accurate adaptive slope technology (with a disable switch to ensure it’s tournament-legal) and a strong built-in cart magnet, offering exceptional value for money.

5. Best budget golf rangefinder: ATuMan DUKA TR1 Golf Rangefinder

A compact, budget-priced laser rangefinder that offers excellent accuracy and essential features. The ATuMan DUKA TR1 is available in both 800-metre and 1200-metre versions, and offers the features you’ll most need in a laser rangefinder. This includes a 6x magnification monocular telescope, slope compensation, and flagpole locking. It’s also easily rechargeable via USB-C.

6. Best easy-to-use golf rangefinder: Blue Tees Series 3 Max Rangefinder

The Blue Tees Series 3 Max comes packed with features, including 7x magnification, slope compensation, a slope-switch toggle, flag-lock vibration, and a magnetic strip for easy attachment to a bag or cart. It’s garnered a well-earned reputation for being one of the easiest to use golf rangefinders around. We also think it’s a great-looking rangefinder with plenty of style.

7. Best compact laser golf rangefinder: Voice Caddie Laser Fit Rangefinder

Not only is the Voice Caddie Laser Fit a capable and reliable laser golf rangefinder with slope integration (with a tournament mode option), 6x optical magnification, and a unique ‘Ball to Pin’ measurement mode, it manages to squeeze all of that into one of the most compact rangefinders around. It is small enough to easily slip into your pocket, so it’s easy to carry around and have at hand on the course.

8. Best mid-range all-rounder golf rangefinder: Vortex Blade Slope Rangefinder

The Vortex Blade Slope is a durable, accurate rangefinder that offers a host of functions. This includes a slope mode that accounts for elevations and drops, a pin-spotter mode with vibratory feedback to confirm the flag is locked, and 6x magnification optics.

Overall, it’s a perfectly balanced rangefinder that delivers superb accuracy and easy-to-use features at a fair price. 

 

Finding the best golf laser rangefinder for you

We’ve given you our recommendations for the best golf rangefinders. But as with any piece of golf equipment, the best rangefinder for you is the one that fits your game, budget, and playing style. Choose wisely, and you’ll quickly wonder how you ever played without one.

 

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Before you test out your brand-new rangefinder on the course, you may want to consider getting specialist golf insurance to help provide financial protection for you and your equipment. Get a quote online today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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20 famous golf quotes to impress and inspire on the course https://golfingnetworks.com/20-famous-golf-quotes-to-impress-and-inspire-on-the-course/ https://golfingnetworks.com/20-famous-golf-quotes-to-impress-and-inspire-on-the-course/#respond Sat, 11 Apr 2026 01:07:42 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/20-famous-golf-quotes-to-impress-and-inspire-on-the-course/

Golf is a game of endless complexity that has both captivated and frustrated those that play it for hundreds of years.

The sport offers up plenty to talk about and, over the years, many a true word has been spoken about the game.

In this blog, we trawl through some of the most inspiring (and at times, humourous) golf quotes to have enriched the game.

 

Our top 20 golf quotes

golf quotes

“The most important shot in golf is the next one.”
– Ben Hogan

Hogan was a man of few words, but he certainly chose them wisely. He is widely regarded as one of the finest ever exponents of the game, and this famous quote portrays that perfectly.

 

“Golf is a game whose aim is to hit a very small ball into an even smaller hole, with weapons singularly ill-designed for the purpose.”
– Winston Churchill

Churchill was known for his witty observations, and this one neatly sums up how all amateurs feel about golf from time to time.

 

“Golf is a day spent in a round of strenuous idleness.”
– William Wordsworth

The great poet probably preferred daffodils to mown fairways, but very few golf quotes encapsulate the sport’s distinct combination of physical exertion and leisurely relaxation quite like this one.

 

“If you’re caught on a golf course during a storm and are afraid of lightning, hold up a 1-iron. Not even God can hit a 1-iron.”
– Lee Trevino

Lee Trevino was actually struck by lightning on the golf course when sheltering from a storm under an umbrella at the 1975 Western Open. This quote came in response to a question on what he would do if he were ever caught in such a situation again.

 

“Golf is an awkward set of bodily contortions designed to produce a grateful result.”
– Tommy Armour

Tommy Armour was a Scottish professional golfer who won the 1931 Open Championship, so he could clearly contort his body rather effectively.

 

“To find a man’s true character, play golf with him.”
– P.G. Wodehouse

Wodehouse frequently included golf in his humorous writings and was a keen player himself.

 

“They call it golf because all the other four-letter words were taken.”
– Ray Floyd

Ray Floyd can’t cuss at golf too much, as he has won 65 tournaments as a professional, including four Majors.

 

“The more I practice, the luckier I get.”
– Gary Player

The Black Knight is known as one of the most determined and dedicated golf professionals of all time.

 

“If a lot of people gripped a knife and fork the way they do a golf club, they’d starve to death.”
– Sam Snead

Snead was a famously natural player with exceptional sporting aptitude. Clearly, he never gripped a knife and fork the way he did his golf club.

 

“Golf is a good walk spoiled.”
– Mark Twain

We’ve all agreed with the creator of Huck Finn on occasion as we’ve staggered off the 18th green.

 

“Golf is so popular simply because it is the best game in the world at which to be bad.”
– A.A Milne

The Winnie the Pooh author once played off a handicap of nine. Not so bad!

 

“If you drink, don’t drive. Don’t even putt.”
– Dean Martin

The legendary crooner loved golf—he even had his own line of golf balls (Dinos) and a PGA Tour event called The Dean Martin Tuscon Open!

 

“If you watch a game, it’s fun. If you play it, it’s recreation. But if you work at it, it’s golf”
– Bob Hope

Bob Hope is perhaps the most famous celebrity golfer of all time. In fact, he did so much for the game that he was elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame.

 

“Golf, like the measles, should be caught young, for, if postponed to riper years, the results may be serious.”
– P.G. Wodehouse

Another accurate golfing observation from the creator of Jeeves and Wooster here.

 

“Golf is a fascinating game. I’ve taken nearly 40 years to discover that I can’t play it.”
– Ted Ray

A spot of unfounded self-deprecation here. Ray won 46 professional tournaments, including the 1912 Open and the 1920 US Open.

 

“They say golf is like life, but don’t believe them. Golf is more complicated than that.”
– Gardner Dickinson

The seven-time PGA Tour winner encapsulated the sport’s bamboozling complexity with this famous line.

 

“If you are going to throw a club, it is important to throw it ahead of you, down the fairway, so you don’t have to waste energy going back to pick it up.”
– Tommy Bolt

Tour professional Tommy Bolt was known for his fiery temper on the course.

 

“I’d give up golf if I didn’t have so many sweaters.”
– Bob Hope

Hope was known for sporting stereotypical golfing attire, including classic sweaters (or jumpers, as we call them…)

 

“Why am I using a new putter? Because the last one didn’t float too well.”
– Craig Stadler

“The Walrus” was prone to the odd fit of pique on the golf course.

 

“Don’t play too much golf. Two rounds a day are plenty.”
– Harry Vardon

When Vardon was at his peak around the turn of the 20th century, it was common for professional tournaments to feature 36 holes in a day!

 

 

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Now you’re all set with some new golf quotes to share with your friends, you may want to consider getting specialist golf insurance.

Through Golf Care, policies include Equipment Cover up to £7,500, Public Liability of up to £10m, and Personal Accident Cover up to £50,000. Get a quote online today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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What size tee should I use? https://golfingnetworks.com/what-size-tee-should-i-use/ https://golfingnetworks.com/what-size-tee-should-i-use/#respond Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:06:29 +0000 https://golfingnetworks.com/what-size-tee-should-i-use/

Whilst other kinds of golfing gear usually hog the limelight, the humble golf tee is an important piece of kit. Understanding which golf tee to use in which situation, especially what height of tee, is a vital part of the game. And knowing which tee to reach for will help you get the most out of your rounds. 

In this guide to golf tee sizes, we’ll explain when you’ll be able to use a tee, what lengths and materials golf tees come in, and how to choose the right golf tee size for your shot. So you’ll be confident about your tee game the next time you step into the tee box.

 

When should you use a golf tee?

golf tee sizes

You’ll use a tee on your first shot on each hole. As you stand at the tee box, or teeing area, for the next hole, you’ll place your tee in the designated space – this is why the first stroke on a hole is called ‘teeing off’.

But why do you use a golf tee? Golfers use tees to elevate the ball to provide a raised target that’s unimpeded by turf, allowing for a clean and consistent hit that improves the chances of maximising distance and control. It can also minimise damage to the turf and even to your clubhead.

If you’re using a driver for your first stroke, a tee is mandatory. If you’re on a lower par hole, like a par-3 hole, and are planning to use a different club (say an iron or a hybrid), then a tee isn’t strictly required. But most golfers will still use one anyway due to the advantages a tee offers. 

 

Can you use a golf tee after your first stroke?

No. After you’ve teed off and your ball is on the fairway, you’ll have to play from where your ball lies without interfering with it.

 

What materials do golf tees come in?

golf tee sizes

Whilst golf tees are relatively straightforward, they’re available in a range of materials as well as sizes, including:

  • Wood: The most traditional golf tee material.
  • Plastic: A variety of plastics are used, but they are generally more durable than wooden tees. Plastic golf tees are by far the most popular choice.
  • Bamboo: Offering a similar natural feel to wooden tees, but with the durability of plastic tees. Plus, they’re biodegradable.
  • Rubber: Soft tees with a flat base for a bottom rather than a point, which are most often used on driving ranges.

 

What sizes do golf tees come in?

When we refer to golf tee size, we’re talking about the length of the tee, typically measured in inches. Golf tees come in a wide range of lengths, but usually in a set of standard sizes:

  • 1.5 inches (1½ inches)
  • 1.75 inches (1¾ inches)
  • 2.25 inches (2¼ inches)
  • 2.75 inches (2¾ inches)
  • 3.25 inches (3¼ inches)
  • 4 inches

Generally, smaller tees are suitable for shorter clubs and shorter holes, as per this standard golf tee size chart:

golf tee sizes

The above chart is a general recommendation only, and many players may have different preferences for the size of tee they use in each situation.

 

How to choose the right golf tee size?

Choosing the right size tee for the golf club you’re about to use to tee off with is part science, part art. You should consider:

  • The type of club and length of the drive: As a general rule, the taller the tee, the longer the shot. With taller tees, the ball sits higher, allowing for a lower angle of attack that’s suitable for driving a ball further down the fairway. Shorter tees allow better control for shorter shots with clubs like hybrids, irons, and even wedges in some situations.
  • Your own personal preferences: Tee sizes for respective golf clubs are recommendations – nothing more. Many golfers will find they prefer different-sized tees than those usually recommended. The tee you use is really up to you. 

Ultimately, the size of tee you use when teeing off will depend on both the club you’re holding and your own game. The great thing about golf tees is that they’re relatively inexpensive, so you can take the time to try different types and sizes in different situations to find which combination works best for you.

 

Specialist golf insurance through Golf Care

Whilst having the right golf tees with you is essential, before you head out on the course for your next round, you may also want to consider protecting yourself and your golf equipment with specialist golf insurance. Get a quote online today.

Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.

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