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What Your Golf Clubs Say About You

Published

4 years ago

July 14, 2021

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

Blog

All the Best Moments in Pebble Beach History

Featuring Tiger Woods, Tom Watson and Bill Murray

Published

1 day ago

January 27, 2025

Lord Eagleman III

Spanning over half a century, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has undergone changes in latitude as well as attitude. But the core of the tournament remains not only the exceptional golf by the world’s best players, but also the lore surrounding each yearly winter extravaganza.

Wyndham Clark made history at the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Tied for 23rd heading into Saturday’s third round, he ended the day in first place with a 12-under 60, setting the course record for the lowest score ever at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

In 2017, Justin Rose & Justin Timberlake collaborated on one of the most unique moments in AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am history. While JR took a selfie, JT nearly made an ace on the iconic par-3 7th ultimately leading to a tap-in birdie.

Always a fan favorite and one of the best entertainers Pebble Beach has ever seen, check out Bill Murray’s best shots and funniest moments from his career at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Signature moments from the five U.S. Opens that were held at Pebble Beach (Calif.) Golf Links, site of the 2019 championship.

Perhaps remembered best for a hole out at the par-4 15th hole, Tiger Woods came back from a 5-shot deficit to move past 54-hole co-leaders Mark Brooks and Matt Gogel and claim victory at the 2000 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Iconic courses, iconic golfers. See you at the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, returning for its second year as a PGA TOUR Signature Event.

Blog

The Most Exciting Storylines to Follow in the 2025 LIV Golf Season

Will you be watching?

Published

6 days ago

January 22, 2025

Lord Eagleman III

The 2025 LIV Golf season is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in the league’s short but impactful history. With its disruptive approach to the sport, LIV Golf continues to challenge traditions and generate buzz. Here are the most compelling storylines to follow as the season unfolds:

1. New Players, Fresh Rivalries

One of the most exciting aspects of this season is the arrival of new talent. LIV Golf has successfully attracted top-ranked players from the PGA Tour, thanks to its lucrative contracts and innovative format. The clash of seasoned veterans and ambitious newcomers promises to create intense rivalries. Will the newcomers shake up the established order, or will the veterans defend their turf?

2. Team Dynamics in Focus

LIV Golf’s unique team-based format continues to set it apart from traditional golf tours. Teams like Crushers GC, Fireballs GC, and 4Aces GC have cultivated strong fan followings. This season, roster changes and new strategies could shift the balance of power. How will captains adapt their leadership styles to foster team cohesion and success? And which team will dominate the standings?

3. The Battle for Global Expansion

LIV Golf has emphasized its commitment to expanding the sport globally, with events scheduled in emerging golf markets like India, South Korea, and Brazil. These new venues not only offer fresh challenges for players but also present opportunities to engage with diverse fanbases. Will LIV’s global push solidify its status as a truly international tour?

4. Technology and Fan Engagement

One hallmark of LIV Golf is its embrace of technology to enhance fan experiences. This season, expect to see advancements in augmented reality, interactive broadcasts, and player mic-ups. These innovations aim to bring fans closer to the action than ever before. Will these efforts further distinguish LIV Golf as the most fan-friendly tour?

5. The PGA Tour Rivalry

The tension between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour remains a defining narrative. With both organizations vying for the loyalty of players and fans, the stakes have never been higher. High-profile defections and joint-event rumors keep fueling speculation. Could 2025 be the year where cooperation begins to overshadow conflict, or will the rivalry escalate further?

6. Defending Champions and Underdog Stories

Every sports season needs its heroes and Cinderella stories, and LIV Golf is no exception. Last season’s champions return to defend their titles, but a host of underdogs are poised to challenge their reign. The unpredictability of golf means that anyone could have their breakout moment. Which players will rise to the occasion and capture the spotlight?

7. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Amid growing concerns about climate change and sustainability, LIV Golf has pledged to make its tournaments more environmentally friendly. This includes reducing carbon footprints, promoting renewable energy, and supporting local communities at host venues. Will these efforts resonate with fans and set a new standard for the sport?

8. The Legacy Question

As LIV Golf grows, questions about its long-term impact on the sport persist. Critics argue that it’s diluting tradition, while supporters believe it’s revolutionizing golf for a new generation. How will this season shape the league’s legacy? Will LIV Golf prove its staying power or face challenges that threaten its future?

With a mix of drama, innovation, and high-stakes competition, the 2025 LIV Golf season is a must-watch for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a traditionalist or a fan of the league’s modern twist, there’s no denying that LIV Golf is making waves and keeping the world of golf on edge.

Blog

How To Shoot 13 On One Hole Like A Pro!

Stay out of the bunkers!

Published

1 week ago

January 20, 2025

Bobby Markowitz

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.