Before You Buy a Custom Clubfitting

Just about any golf professional can fit you for new clubs. If you don't have anyone specific in mind already, make a few calls. Most clubfitters have several brands of clubs they fit for, but some only fit for one brand. Find out what brands each fitter has available and make sure it's a brand you'll want to buy.

Clubfittings can range from free to around $100, with the midpoint more typical. If you plan to purchase your new clubs from the pro who does your fitting, ask them if they'll fit you free of charge (never hurts to ask!). And make sure that the clubfitting involves hitting balls from a fitting mat and is not simply a series of measurements.

If you order your clubs online, you might be able to provide a series of measurements (i.e., arm length) for a "cyberfitting." For those purposes, that's fine. But if you are going to a real clubfitting, make sure it will include hitting balls outside where the ball flight can be observed. Hitting into a net simply doesn't provide the necessary feedback because the pro won't see ball flight.

Something important to keep in mind: You are under no obligation to buy your new clubs from the pro who gave you your clubfitting. It is perfectly OK to take the specs you've received and shop around for a better price. However, if you do this, make sure you have all the necessary data. The fitter should be able to provide you with every measurement needed.