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What Your Golf Clubs Say About You
Whether you know it or not, your golf bag and clubs speak volumes about you as a player.
After playing for 20 plus years, I can pretty much look at someone’s bag on the range and guess their handicap before watching them take a swing. Needless to say, first impressions on the golf course are very real.
If you play a lot of golf and want to make a good first impression, follow these rules. Here is a breakdown of how each component of your golf bag describes you as a golfer.
Golf Bag and Accessories
Before going into the clubs themselves, let’s talk about the golf bag, as that usually says a lot as well. Here’s how I think of it:
Tour bag – If you aren’t a touring professional, never, ever use a Tour bag. They’re massive and not functional for the average golfer.
Cart bag – Someone who is at least a 15 handicap, if not more. If I see a ball retriever, I know they’re shooting in the 90s on a good day and triple digits on a bad one.
Hybrid bag – Someone who likes to walk nine holes with a push cart occasionally, but not enough to go all in on a stand bag. Likely shooting in the high 80s or 90s.
Stand bag – This type of bag usually means you’re a solid golfer who is shooting in the 70s most of the time. Even if you never walk, a stand bag is usually a sign of an established golfer.
While there are some exceptions to the rule, these are usually pretty standard when it comes to golf bags. The accessories on your bag also factor in too.
Custom name on bag – Having your full name embroidered on your bag is fine. But having something like John “Big Time” Smith is tacky and unnecessary. I fully expect that type of person to miraculously find their golf ball in the trees and talk about how good they were in high school.
Gadgets – If you have multiple gadgets, training aids, and other accessories hanging from your bag, I’m a bit worried. Keep it minimal with a club brush, maybe a bag tag from your favorite course, and 1-2 towels.
Driver and Fairway Woods
Your big stick and other woods don’t always say as much about you as your irons do. With woods, most golfers play big brands (Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade, etc.).
But the shaft is usually a more telling sign of who you are a golfer. If you see someone playing an X-stiff shaft or one you know is super stiff, like the HZRDUS green, they’re usually a good player.
Irons and Wedges
Irons are usually the easiest thing to spot when another golfer sees you. Good players tend to have blades or small cavity back irons.
While mediocre golfers who shoot in the 80s or 90s play a larger cavity back, sometimes with graphite shafts. And golfers who shoot 100+ almost always have a hybrid set, massive cavity back irons, and lightweight graphite shafts.
Wedges don’t say a ton as most golfers play standard, blade wedges. Some older players or high handicappers might opt for a small cavity back to match their irons.
But if I see some gimmicky club like the Spin Doctor, a 2-sided chipper, or Square Strike from the Golf Channel infomercials, I’m absolutely terrified. These types of clubs usually mean you suck around the greens and I will always make sure to stand behind you in case you shank one.
Iron Covers
Please, I beg you, do not use iron covers – no matter what they look like.
Anytime I’m playing solo and get paired up with a group and I see iron covers when I’m’ warming up, I know I’m in for a long day.
Iron covers are tacky and completely unnecessary. They instantly show everyone at the golf course that you’re a high handicap golfer who doesn’t know much about the game.
I don’t care if you’re playing $3,000 PXG irons, skip the iron covers entirely (because clearly you can afford new ones). The only exception is if you’re traveling on an airplane and want to protect your investment, otherwise burn them immediately.
Putter
Finally, your putter also says a lot about you as a golfer.
In general, solid golfers tend to take care of their putters much better than someone who shoots in the 90s or 100s. If I see someone with a ton of scuff marks, I know they’re making 3-putts look easy.
Meanwhile, established players keep a headcover on at all times, usually have a newer grip, and don’t throw it.
After reading this, what does your golf bag say about you? Is it giving a good first impression, or do you need to make some adjustments before you head out to the golf course?
Let me know in the comments!
Written by Michael Leonard
During the 2025 American Express, PGA Tour rookie William Mouw found himself in a deep, 20-foot bunker on the par-5 16th hole—famously known as the “San Andreas Fault” for its ability to frustrate even seasoned pros.
Mouw’s shots went from bad to worse: after escaping the bunker twice, he’d end up back in it. After an epic 13 strokes, he followed up with a triple bogey on the 17th.
Despite a 5-under 67 in the next round, he missed the cut by 9 shots.
The lesson is to remain resilient despite setbacks. The 16th hole demonstrated how quickly things can go sideways, but his ability to shake off the octuple bogey and finish the weekend strong with a 67 shows that recovery and perseverance are key. Golf is unpredictable, but staying positive and focused on the next shot is crucial. Mouw’s resilience in the face of adversity can be an important learning experience as he moves forward in his career.
Golf: always full of surprises!
Blog
Reinventing the Game We Love
Golf is evolving with innovative formats like TGL’s tech-fueled arenas and the World Series of Golf’s poker-inspired strategy, blending tradition with modern excitement.
Golf, my friends, is no longer just about walking the pristine fairways of Augusta or sinking a 30-foot birdie putt on the 18th at St. Andrews. No, the game is evolving, stretching its traditional boundaries in ways that might make Old Tom Morris do a double take. From tech-fueled formats like the TGL to the high-stakes innovation of the World Series of Golf, golf is embracing a bold new future. Let’s dive into these groundbreaking formats that are shaking up the game, one swing at a time.
Tech Meets Tradition
Imagine a golf league where cutting-edge technology meets the competitive spirit of team sports. That’s the promise of the TGL, a new format backed by heavyweights like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. Set to launch soon, the TGL is played on a state-of-the-art virtual course in a high-energy arena, complete with live crowds and fast-paced action.
Gone are the long walks and contemplative silences—this is golf reimagined for the modern audience. Think Monday Night Football vibes, but with drivers, wedges, and a lot less tackling (unless someone gets really heated over a bunker shot). The TGL is set to bring in new fans, especially those who love the thrill of eSports and tech-driven experiences.
Why It Matters:
The TGL is making golf faster, more interactive, and more accessible for younger audiences who want action, not just tradition. It’s proof that golf can evolve without losing its soul.
Poker Meets the Fairway
Speaking of innovation, let’s talk about a format that combines the strategy of poker with the skills of golf: the World Series of Golf. This isn’t your typical weekend scramble. It’s a high-stakes competition where every shot counts, not just for your score but for the chips in your hand.
Here’s how it works: Players bet on their own abilities with each shot, calculating risk and reward just like in a poker hand. Do you play it safe and lay up, or go all-in for the green? The World Series of Golf isn’t just a test of your swing—it’s a test of your nerves, your strategy, and your ability to read the game (and maybe your opponents).
Why It’s Exciting:
The World Series of Golf adds a layer of mental gymnastics to the game, making it as much about psychology and risk-taking as it is about hitting a perfect shot. Plus, the format is ripe for TV, offering drama and intrigue that’s hard to match.
These innovative formats aren’t just novelties; they’re lifelines for a sport looking to grow its audience. Traditional golf is beautiful, sure, but let’s face it—four-hour rounds and hushed commentary aren’t for everyone. Formats like TGL and the World Series of Golf bring energy, accessibility, and excitement, appealing to both die-hard fans and newcomers who might find 18 holes of stroke play a bit daunting.
These innovations also open the door for a more inclusive golf culture. With shorter formats and new ways to engage, golf can attract younger players, diverse audiences, and anyone who’s ever thought, “Golf looks fun, but do I have the time?” Spoiler: You do now.
The beauty of these new formats is that they’re just the beginning. Imagine even more creative takes on the game—urban golf leagues, drone-assisted gameplay, or even VR tournaments where you can compete against the pros from your living room. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this moment so exciting.
Golf isn’t losing its roots; it’s growing new branches. The core of the game—the precision, the strategy, the camaraderie—is still there. But with innovations like TGL and the World Series of Golf, the game is proving it can evolve while staying true to what makes it great.
So here’s to the future of golf: a world where tradition meets innovation, and the next great shot could happen anywhere—from a virtual course to a poker-style showdown. Swing on, my friends, because the game we love is only getting better.
Staying in shape and maintaining your golf swing during the winter months can be challenging, especially with the temptation to spend weekends indoors watching football. However, these two seemingly disparate activities can complement each other. By incorporating football viewing, especially during the exciting NFL playoffs, with strategic exercises, you can stay engaged with sports and improve your golf game.
How Watching the NFL Playoffs Can Help Your Swing
NFL playoff games offer natural breaks in the action – timeouts, commercials, and halftime – which can be utilized for short bursts of exercise. These breaks are ideal for:
- Dynamic Warm-ups: During the pre-game, between quarters, or longer breaks, perform dynamic stretches like leg swings, arm circles, and torso twists. These movements improve flexibility and prepare your muscles for activity, mirroring the warm-up routines used by professional golfers.
- Swing Practice: Utilize shorter breaks for practice swings, focusing on maintaining proper form and grip. Imagine yourself on the course and visualize your swing, even without a club. This mental and physical rehearsal helps reinforce muscle memory.
- Core Engagement Exercises: Core strength is essential for a stable and powerful swing. During breaks, perform exercises like planks, side planks, and Russian twists. These exercises can be easily done in front of the TV without requiring any equipment.
Maximizing Your Football-Watching Workout (Especially During the Playoffs!)
To make the most of this approach:
- Create a Routine: Plan which exercises you’ll perform during different parts of the game. Having a structured routine will help you stay consistent and make the most of the breaks.
- Focus on Quality over Quantity: Short, focused bursts of exercise are more effective than long, drawn-out sessions. Prioritize proper form and technique over the number of repetitions.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the game. Proper hydration is crucial for muscle function and overall performance.
By combining your passion for football, especially the high-stakes action of the NFL playoffs, with strategic exercises, you can maintain your fitness, improve your golf swing, and enjoy the best of both worlds during the winter months.
Bottom’s Up and Bottom Line:
This is about doing something. Even 10 minutes a day is better than nothing. It’ll keep you from completely seizing up during the winter months. So when the sun finally comes out, you’ll be able to at least half-decently swing a club, rather than looking like you’ve just been defrosted. Plus, you might even feel a little less creaky.
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