Women's golf clubs are designed to suit the typical height, strength and swing speed of women golfers. They are usually shorter, lighter and more flexible than standard men's clubs, with more loft to help the ball into the air. But every golfer is different: a tall, powerful woman may play best with men's or senior clubs, and a petite golfer may need shorter clubs than the standard women's length. Here is how to choose the right set for you.
How women's clubs differ
| Feature | Typical women's club | Typical men's club |
|---|---|---|
| Length | About 1 inch shorter | Standard |
| Weight | Lighter heads, shafts and grips | Heavier |
| Shaft flex | Ladies (L) flex | Regular, stiff or senior |
| Grip size | Smaller | Standard |
| Loft | Often higher, especially driver and woods | Lower |
| Set make-up | More woods and hybrids, fewer long irons | More irons |
The aim is to help golfers with moderate swing speeds launch the ball higher, carry it further and control the club more easily.
Choosing the right length
Length is based on your height and, more precisely, your wrist-to-floor measurement: the distance from the crease of your wrist to the floor when standing straight in normal shoes.
| Height | Typical length |
|---|---|
| Under 5 ft 3 in (160 cm) | Women's standard or shorter (petite) |
| 5 ft 3 in to 5 ft 8 in (160 to 173 cm) | Women's standard |
| 5 ft 8 in to 5 ft 11 in (173 to 180 cm) | Women's standard plus half to one inch, or men's |
| Over 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) | Men's standard length or longer |
These are only guides; arm length matters too. Clubs that are too long make you stand too upright; too short makes you hunch. Read golf posture at address.
Choosing the right flex and weight
| Driver swing speed | Typical carry | Shaft flex |
|---|---|---|
| Under 65 mph | Under 150 yards | Ladies (L) |
| 65 to 80 mph | 150 to 190 yards | Ladies or senior (A) |
| Over 80 mph | Over 190 yards | Senior or regular |
Lighter shafts help you generate more club head speed. If you hit the ball a long way, a regular flex may suit you better. Read the golf shaft flex guide or try the shaft flex finder.
The ideal set make-up
A typical women's set might include:
- Driver: 12° to 14° loft for a high launch. Read how to choose a driver.
- Fairway woods: a 5-wood and 7-wood, or even a 9-wood. Read fairway woods: how to choose and hit them.
- Hybrids: replacing the 4-, 5- and possibly 6-iron. Read hybrid golf clubs explained.
- Irons: from 6- or 7-iron to pitching wedge, with a forgiving, cavity-back design. Read game improvement vs players' irons.
- Wedges: a sand wedge, and possibly a gap wedge. Read golf wedges guide: loft and bounce.
- Putter: fitted to your height and stroke. Read how to choose a putter.
You do not need 14 clubs to start. A half set with a driver, a fairway wood, a hybrid, three or four irons, a sand wedge and a putter is plenty for beginners.
Package sets vs individual clubs
| Package set | Individual clubs | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Beginners and occasional golfers | Improving and regular golfers |
| Price | Good value, often with a bag | Higher, but tailored |
| Fit | Standard women's specs | Fitted to you |
| Flexibility | Fixed make-up | Choose exactly what you need |
A good package set is an excellent way to start. As you improve, replace individual clubs with fitted ones. Read buying golf clubs on a budget.
Should women use men's clubs?
Some women play men's or senior clubs, particularly if they are tall or have higher swing speeds. Hand-me-down men's clubs are usually too long, too heavy and too stiff for most women, which makes the game harder. If you are using borrowed clubs, ask a pro to check them, and consider having them shortened and regripped, or switching to a set that fits.
Getting fitted
A fitting checks:
- Length and lie angle, so the club sits correctly at address.
- Shaft flex and weight for your swing speed.
- Grip size for your hands.
- Loft and set make-up for your distances.
Many retailers offer free or low-cost fittings. Read custom golf club fitting.
Other equipment
- Golf ball: a softer, low-compression ball can help moderate swing speeds. Read choosing the right golf ball.
- Bag: a light stand bag or cart bag. Read golf bags, carts and trolleys.
- Clothing and shoes: read our women's golf clothing guide and golf shoes guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between women's and men's golf clubs?
Women's clubs are usually shorter, lighter and more flexible, with smaller grips and higher lofts.
Can a woman use men's golf clubs?
Yes, if they suit her height and swing speed. Many tall or strong women play men's or senior clubs.
How many clubs does a beginner need?
A half set of around 7 to 10 clubs is plenty to start. You can add clubs as you improve.
What loft driver should a woman use?
Usually 12° or higher for most women golfers, to help launch the ball and reduce slicing.
The bottom line
The best women's clubs are the ones that fit you: the right length for your height, a shaft that suits your swing speed, and a set make-up with plenty of woods and hybrids. Start with a good package set or a half set, get fitted when you are ready, and choose equipment that helps you enjoy the game. For more on starting out, read golf for women: getting started.