Golf clubs are expensive, and golfers are always looking for a bargain. That has created a market for cheaper alternatives, some perfectly legitimate and some anything but. "Clone" clubs, "component" clubs and counterfeit clubs are often mentioned in the same breath, yet they are very different things. Knowing the difference can save you money, and stop you from being cheated.
Three types of "cheaper" clubs
| Type | What it is | Legal? | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Component clubs | Heads, shafts and grips from specialist makers, assembled by a clubfitter | Yes | Ranges from good to excellent |
| Clones (look-alikes) | Clubs designed to resemble popular models, sold under their own name | Usually yes, if they do not copy trademarks or protected designs | Variable |
| Counterfeits (fakes) | Copies that carry another company's brand name, logo and design | No | Usually poor |
Component clubs
Component clubs are designed and manufactured by smaller companies that sell heads, shafts and grips to independent clubfitters. A fitter assembles the clubs to your specifications: length, lie, shaft and grip. Because there is less marketing behind them, they often cost less than big-name clubs, and some are very well made. Read custom golf club fitting.
Clones
Clones copy the general look of popular clubs, but carry their own brand names. They were once very common. Quality varies: some are decent, others are made with cheap materials and loose tolerances. Many clone makers have since become component makers with their own designs.
Counterfeits
Counterfeits are fakes made to look exactly like branded clubs, with copied names, logos and packaging. They are illegal to make and sell in most countries, and are often sold at a discount through online marketplaces, auction sites and social media.
Why counterfeits are a bad deal
- Poor performance. Fakes often use cheap metals, inconsistent lofts and lies, and low-quality shafts.
- Safety. Heads can crack or detach, and shafts can snap.
- No warranty and no customer support.
- No resale value. Fakes are worthless once identified.
- Non-conforming. Fakes may not meet the Rules of Golf, so they may not be legal in competitions. Read conforming golf equipment and the rules.
- Supporting crime. Counterfeiting is linked to organised crime and costs legitimate businesses and jobs.
How to spot counterfeit clubs
Price and seller
- Too good to be true: brand-new current models at a fraction of the normal price.
- Overseas sellers with no business details, poor reviews or new accounts.
- Large quantities of the same new model.
- Stock photos rather than photos of the actual clubs.
The clubs themselves
- Poor finish: uneven paint, sloppy engraving, misaligned logos or spelling mistakes.
- Wrong weight: fakes are often heavier or lighter than the real thing.
- Shaft and grip: cheap shafts with copied labels; grips that feel hard or slippery.
- Ferrules and hosels: poorly fitted ferrules, glue around the hosel.
- Serial numbers: missing, duplicated or not matching the manufacturer's records.
- Headcovers and packaging: low-quality materials and printing.
If you are unsure, take the clubs to a pro shop or clubfitter, or contact the manufacturer with the serial number. Many manufacturers can verify authenticity.
How to buy safely
- Buy from authorised retailers, pro shops and well-known online stores.
- Use established sellers with a good history and returns policy when buying used.
- Ask for photos of the actual clubs, including serial numbers.
- Pay with protected methods such as a credit card or payment service with buyer protection.
- Be wary of sellers who want payment by bank transfer only.
Read buying golf equipment online.
Safer ways to save money
- Last year's models, which are often heavily discounted but perform almost identically.
- Used clubs from reputable dealers and pro shops. Read buying golf clubs on a budget.
- Component clubs from a local clubfitter.
- Part sets: buy a half set to start, adding clubs as you need them. Read golf for beginners: the complete guide.
- Trade-in schemes at golf shops.
Frequently asked questions
Are clone golf clubs illegal?
Clones that carry their own name and do not copy protected trademarks or designs are usually legal. Counterfeits that copy a brand's name and logo are illegal.
Are component clubs any good?
Many are very good, especially when properly fitted. They can offer excellent value.
How can I tell if my golf clubs are fake?
Check the price paid, the finish, the weight, the shaft labels and the serial numbers. A pro shop or the manufacturer can help verify authenticity.
Can I use counterfeit clubs in competitions?
Counterfeit clubs may not conform to the Rules of Golf, so they may not be permitted.
The bottom line
Not every cheaper club is a fake. Component clubs and good used clubs can be excellent value, and some look-alike clubs are legal. But counterfeits are illegal, poorly made and a waste of money. Buy from reputable sellers, be suspicious of prices that look too good to be true, check the details, and spend your budget on clubs that are properly fitted. For more on choosing equipment, read how to choose golf clubs.