3 tips for buying new irons and wedges

By Nate McDonough – Worldwide Golf Shops

When it comes to purchasing a new set of irons or wedges, a little knowledge goes a long way. Here are my three Golden Rules when it comes to purchasing a new set:

1. When you come in to the store be sure to bring along your current irons and wedges. The surest way of knowing whether you’ll be happy with the purchase of new clubs is to compare them to the ones you currently play. It will immediately bring context to the numbers measured on our state-of-the-art launch monitors, and the data will help us figure out exactly which club goes farther, straighter and higher.
2. Let the long iron be your guiding light. While most of us are quick to grab a 6 or 7 iron when testing a new set, most of the technology is in the long irons. In fact, the long irons can be the biggest point of differentiation between sets. Some may have traditional 4 and 5 irons while others have hybrids or hybrid-like irons. So if you’re like most golfers who are looking to improve long-iron shots, pick the set that makes that part of the game easier.
3. The only way to know for sure is to get fit. While look and feel are significant factors, the most important variables are shaft flex, club length and lie.

Playing the correct shaft flex will ensure optimum launch angles and spin characteristics. The proper length will encourage comfortable posture and help avoid injury. And the lie will help promote solid turf interaction between the sole of the club and the ground.
Remember: It’s not about getting fit for the perfect swing, it’s about getting fit perfectly for you.

– Nate McDonough is the Purchasing Assistant at Worldwide Golf Shops, www.worldwidegolfshops.com