New vs. Used: Choosing the Right Golf Clubs for Your Budget and Game

It's easy to see the benefits of purchasing brand-new golf clubs. However, golfers often don't understand the real differences between new and used clubs. What are you sacrificing when you purchase used? How much money are you really saving? Will the used clubs have the technology you need to play your best? Let's take a look at the considerations between buying new or used clubs.

New vs. Used Golf Clubs

Outside of price, because we know new golf clubs can be expensive, there are some key differences between new and used clubs that should be considered before you buy.

Condition

New golf clubs are in perfect condition, they have never been hit and even come wrapped in plastic. Used golf clubs can be in close to perfect condition. Before purchasing, always look at club heads for imperfections, grips to check on wear, and shafts for any visible cuts, dents, or scratches.

Quality

The Callaway Paradym Driver is a top-of-the-line club. If you can get one used and in good shape, it will perform just as well as buying a new driver. The manufacturer, release, technology, and fit are more important than whether or not the club was ever hit.

If your budget prevents you from purchasing new clubs, used golf clubs are a great solution. You can spend a little less and still get great clubs that will improve your game for years to come. 

Customization

One benefit of buying new is that you can order a custom lie and loft. For used clubs, you may stumble upon something that fits you, or you'll have additional costs to customize the clubs after the fact. When researching used clubs, try to narrow your search based on the club length or lie adjustments you’re looking for. Know that club length can be adjusted after the fact.

Expert tip: You can simply remove the grip and cut the length down or remove the grip and add an extension. But when you remove the grip, you'll have to toss it and buy a new one.

Who should buy new golf clubs?

If you have the budget (think $1000+ for an iron set, $550 for a driver) and play a lot of golf, you may want to consider new clubs. Other reasons to buy new clubs are: 

• The ability to customize: If you’re shorter or taller than a standard-height golfer, then you may need to order clubs built with the proper loft and lie. A proper fitting can make a world of difference in your swing and accuracy. Newer clubs often have more adjustability features to dial them in for your specific swing mechanics.
• Rapid advancements in technology: Modern clubs are constantly being updated with new materials and designs that can lead to greater distance (drivers), more forgiveness on off-center hits (irons), or improved control and spin (wedges). If your current clubs are several years old, these advancements can often translate to noticeable gains in your game.
• Confidence booster: There's no denying the psychological boost that comes with having a new set of clubs in the bag. Feeling good about your equipment can translate to a more positive mental state on the course, potentially leading to better performance. 

Lastly, if you’re someone who has been using a set of golf clubs for 15 years or more, it might be worth investing in a set that will last you another 15. Just make sure you invest in the right ones!

Who should buy used?

Any golfer can benefit from used clubs. The key is finding used clubs that are in good condition and can work for your game. Used golf clubs help you save money, but they don't have to mean sacrificing performance. Consider buying used clubs if you are: 

• A golfer on a budget: Used clubs can be a fraction of the cost of new ones, especially for higher-end models. This allows golfers to get quality equipment without breaking the bank, particularly those who are new to the game or on a tighter budget.
• A golfer who needs just one club: Making tweaks to your equipment to match the needs of your game is much easier when you purchase used. If you know you’re missing a 3-wood, it's a bit easier to justify a $125 purchase for a good-condition club that's a year or two old than the $300 new model.
• A golfer who seeks variety and availability: The used market offers a wider selection of brands, models, and years than you might find at a typical retail store. This allows golfers to find specific clubs that suit their playing style, or experiment with different types of clubs without a big investment.
• Golfers who like finding gems: You can find gently used clubs from reputable brands that are still in excellent condition. This can be a great way to get high-quality equipment at a significant discount.

How much money does buying used save?

How much you save on a used golf club purchase depends on the brand and the club you’re purchasing.

Let's take, for instance, the Ping G425 Max, a highly-rated golf driver still being sold new. It was originally released at $550, but it has now dropped to $400 (although limited shaft and model options are available now).

 A used Ping G425 driver can be found for as little as $320. The technology in this club is still very relevant even if it's been hit and played for a year or two, saving you 40% or more.

Take that money saved and purchase a matching fairway wood and hybrid!

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, you must determine whether new or used makes sense for your budget and golf game. More and more golfers are finding ways to incorporate used golf clubs into their bags. Golf clubs hold their value relatively well and the used marketplace offers an incentive for players to sell their clubs. This means golfers of all skill levels can find amazing golf deals on SidelineSwap.