Golf is one of the most widely played sports out there, and for good reason. Golf is a game that’s easy to get into, but difficult to master, appealing to a wide array of players from diverse backgrounds and tastes. It’s also a sport that you can play in just about any condition; in fact, part of the challenge and fun of golf is learning how to do what you need with the ball, no matter the terrain.
New York City, in particular, is somewhere most people don’t readily associate with golf, but man, if you love to tee off, it’s a great place to be. If you’re lucky enough to live in New York, and you’re a lifelong golfer, or just looking to begin, there’s plenty of options for you. But where should you start? There’s a host of options out there, and if you’re new to the game, you may not even know the difference between a Wood and an Iron, much less which brand to buy. And that’s okay: this guide will help you get off on the right foot.
What You’re Looking For
So, you want to play the game the same way Arnold Palmer did in 1978? Awesome! That’s a great attitude to have. You just like to go to the driving range now and then with your friends and knock a few towards the #9? No worries, that’s a ton of fun too. No matter what you’re looking to do there are certain things that you’ve got to have, no matter how you want to play or where.
- Clubs
Golf is played with a club or set of clubs, and the goal is to get the ball in the hole with as few hits as possible. Simple enough, right? But, you may be asking, “What’s the difference?” “What do the numbers mean?“ “Do I really need a full set?” Great questions, but to get the most out of your game, you need to look at yourself first. Are you more casual or are you going for the pros? Do you want to get a hole in one at 400 meters, or just something to get the ball down the fairway to the hole, however long it takes. Your answers will determine the type and number of clubs you need.
To start with, know that there are three basic types of clubs: woods, irons and wedges. Each club has a number, usually in the 1 to 9 spectrum, that indicates the degree of its intended effect. Woods are long shafted, lighter clubs with a wide swinging arc, designed to send your ball in a relatively straight line over long distances. They’re primarily used at the start of a hole for teeing off, but are applicable wherever distance is required and terrain isn’t a restriction. Irons are heavier, shorter clubs that provide a greater degree of arc and precision. The higher the number, the more arc you’ll get. For example, a 4 Iron will give you a straighter shot then a 9 Iron, which can send your ball nearly straight up in the air. They’re great for shorter, more controlled shots. Finally, wedges are for sharp arced, precision shots. They’re most commonly used in rough terrain over short distances, such as to get over a steep hill or to get out of a sand trap.
If you’re a serious golfer, aiming to compete in tournaments and professional scrambles, it’s essential to have at least one complete set of Irons and Wood, 1 through 9, and at least one wedge, in order to give yourself the perfect shot, no matter the situation. If you’re a casual player who just does nine holes every now and then, you can probably do just fine with a wood, a mid-range iron (5 to 7), and maybe a wedge. If all you want is to go to the driving range with your friends now and then, any wood or iron will be just fine, and if that’s all you’re looking for, consider renting the clubs you want to play with. This is also a great way to expose yourself to different brands before you decide if, and which, to buy.
- Apparel
Apparel is based on two things: preference and venue. As with any sport, you need to be as comfortable as possible in what you’re wearing, and that’s where preference comes into play. More casual golfers may prefer a simple t-shirt and shorts, with some comfortable sneakers or sandals. Advanced players universally wear more professional attire, including polos and slacks, when they play. The type of golfer you are will play a big role in what you’re wearing, and how much you want to spend. Certain venues have dress codes that you must adhere to, while others are more lax. Make sure you research where you want to play to ensure that you’re not showing up in a tank top and flip flops when they only allow polos and closed-toe shoes.
- Miscellaneous Equipment
There is a myriad of different equipment out there, from rangefinders, tees, and different brands of golf balls, designed to enhance your game. How much you want to invest, and on what equipment, is entirely up to you. Again, your level of play, and how serious a player you want to be, will be the determining factor. For example, if you’re training to improve your club selection and distance gauging for long shots, a rangefinder is a great tool to gauge how effectively you’re judging your distances. While much of the equipment out there is cosmetic, and really depends on your style and budget, research different pieces and brands, and ask your prefered venue if they have trial equipment, to find what works for you.
Where to Get It
Any serious golfer knows that having the most expensive club or the leading rangefinder won’t replace the skill you’ll get practicing with your Three Wood on the driving range, but it can definitely give you an edge if you know where to look, and New York has plenty of options to help you, no matter what your skill level or is or what your budget.
#1 New York Golf Center
With a host of different brands and equipment, NY Golf Center, is a great choice for golfers from all walks of life. In addition to a wide selection of clubs, shirts, shoes, rangefinders, and more from the leading brands in the game, New York Golf Center offers custom fittings on their state-of-the-art, indoor Trackman system, ensuring that you’ll know exactly how your gear will perform when you get on the green. With three different locations in Herald Square, Grand Central and Chelsea Piers, New York Golf Center is a great choice wherever you live in the city.
#2 Panda Sport Golf
A family owned and operated favorite in the Brooklyn, Panda Sport’s been providing great choices for athletes for over 20 years. In addition to a great selection of brands in apparel and equipment, they have an excellent try before you buy program, so you can drive a few down the green before you decide if you want to pay. Panda Sport Golf is also located directly beside the original Panda Sport, so if you’re an all around athlete, or have friends and family that love to play, Panda should definitely be one of your places to shop.
#3 Paragon Sports
One of the leading names in sports apparel, Paragon Sports has a huge selection of great brands and styles, at prices that won’t break the bank, no matter how you choose to play. With an ample stock of brands including Nike, Under Armour, Foot Joy and many others, Paragon will become one your most frequented stops for all golf apparel. While their selection of golf related gear is pretty limited to a few gloves and balls, if you’re looking for a polo that will keep you cool in the height of summer, cleats that won’t slip when the terrain gets rough, or slacks that move like you want to, not how you’re forced to, Paragon is a great choice for men, women and children, no matter the sport.
Teeing Off
No matter your skill level, or how much you want to grow, golf is a great sport that allows you to be as serious or as casual as you want, without spending a ton of money. Keep the above points in mind, and you’ll find that golfing in New York can be a great experience that will bring you closer to those you care about, improve your confidence, and have a great time doing it. Now get out there, tee off, and have fun!
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