How to Choose a Golf Club Driver
By Bill Herrfeldt
Until about 20 years ago, golf club manufacturers included about 13 clubs in a new set, and they didn't include the putter because they realized that everyone had a favorite. Then, with the introduction of drivers of all sizes, multiple choices of wedges and hybrids, golfers now mix-and-match clubs based on their skills and perceptions. Today, most golfers carry clubs made by several companies. So the choice of driver has become difficult. Here are a few things to think about when you purchase a new one.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Determine the level of your skill as well as your strength because they will bear directly on your choice of driver. A driver chosen by a beginner or high handicapper is probably not the right choice for someone who is more advanced. Also, it would be helpful to know your club head speed at the point of impact. Many golf shops and sporting goods stores have equipment to find that out for you.
Choose a driver with the right club head. If you have a high handicap, you probably mis-hit more drives than you should. For that reason, you should probably have a large club head that has a big sweet spot. To accommodate them, club manufacturers now construct them using titanium rather that steel, because they weigh much less. Not only will your accuracy off the tee improve, you probably will hit the ball further. The only drawback is that a driver with a titanium club head costs significantly more than one made of steel.
Look for a driver that has the correct loft for your game. If you are just starting out or you have a high handicap, you should choose a driver with more than a 10 degree loft because it will be easier for you to get the ball into the air. More experienced players with lower handicaps can have a driver with a loft of less than 10 degrees because that probably is less a problem.
Choose a driver that has a shaft that matches up with your skill. Basically, there are two types of shafts, graphite and steel. Although more expensive, graphite shafts are lighter, enabling you to swing a little more quickly. And by doing so, you will probably hit the ball a little further. Many of the touring professionals have turned to graphite-shafted drivers because they find they add 20 to 30 yards to their drives.
About The Author
Bill Herrfeldt specializes in finance, sports and the needs of retiring people, and has been published in the national edition of "Erickson Tribune," the "Washington Post" and the "Arizona Republic." He graduated from the University of Louisville.
