New York City, in particular, is a place that most people don't readily associate with golf, but if you like to play golf, it's a great place to be. If you're lucky enough to live in New York City and are a long-time golfer or just looking to get started, there are many options for you. But where to start? There are plenty of options out there, and if you're a novice, you may not even know the difference between a wood and an iron, let alone which brand to buy. And that's okay: this guide will help you get started on the right foot.
What You're Looking For
So you want to play golf like Arnold Palmer did in 1978? That's great! That's a great attitude. Just like to go to the golf course every once in a while with your friends and hit a few shots to number 9? Don't worry, that's a lot of fun too. No matter what you're looking to do, there are certain things you must have, no matter how or where you want to play.
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 strokes as possible. Simple enough, right? But you may be wondering, "What's the difference?" "What do the numbers mean?" "Do I really need a full set?" These are good questions, but to get the most out of your game, you need to look at yourself first. Are you more casual or do you want to become a professional? Do you want to make a hole-in-one at 400 yards, or just something that allows you to get the ball down the fairway to the hole in whatever time it takes. Your answers will determine the type and number of clubs you need.
To start, there are three basic types of clubs: woods, irons and wedges. Each club has a number, usually between 1 and 9, that indicates the degree of spin you want to achieve. Woods are longer shafted, lighter clubs with a wide swing arc, designed to send your ball in a relatively straight line over long distances. They are primarily used at the beginning of a hole for teeing off, but are applicable anywhere distance is required and terrain is not a restriction. Irons are heavier, shorter clubs that offer a greater degree of arc and accuracy. The higher the number, the bigger the bow. For example, a 4-iron will give you a straighter shot than a 9-iron, which can send your ball almost directly into the air. They are great for shorter, more controlled shots. Finally, wedges are designed for precision shots in an arc. They are most often used on rough terrain and short distances, such as over a steep hill or 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 full set of irons and woods, from 1 to 9, and at least one wedge, to give you the perfect shot in any situation. If you're a casual player who only plays nine holes once in a while, you can probably get by with a wood, a medium (5-7) iron and maybe a wedge. If all you want to do is go to the driving range with your friends once in a while, any wood or iron will do, and if that's all you're after, consider renting the clubs you want to play with. It's also a great way to expose yourself to different brands before deciding whether or not to buy a club.
Clothing
Clothing is based on two things: preference and location. As with any sport, you want to be as comfortable as possible in what you wear, and that's where preference comes in. More casual golfers may prefer a simple t-shirt and shorts, with comfortable sneakers or sandals. Advanced players all wear more professional attire, including polo shirts and pants, when playing. The type of golfer you are will play a large role in what you wear, and how much you want to spend. Some venues have dress codes that you must follow, while others are more lax. Check out the place you want to play to make sure you don't show up in a tank top and flip-flops when only polo shirts and closed-toe shoes are allowed.
Miscellaneous Equipment
There is a myriad of different equipment, such as rangefinders, tees and different brands of golf balls, designed to improve your game. It's up to you to decide how much you want to invest and on what equipment. Again, your level of play and how serious you want to be will be determining factors. For example, if you are practicing to improve your club selection and distance estimation for long shots, a rangefinder is an excellent tool to evaluate how well you are estimating your distances. While most of the equipment available is cosmetic and depends on your style and budget, research the different parts and brands, and ask your favorite club 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 best rangefinder won't replace the skill you'll get from 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, regardless of your skill level or budget.
New York's #1 Golf Center
With a multitude of different brands and equipment, the NY Golf Center is a great choice for golfers of all backgrounds. In addition to a wide selection of clubs, shirts, shoes, rangefinders and other products from top brands, the New York Golf Center offers custom adjustments on its state-of-the-art indoor Trackman system, so you know exactly how your equipment will perform when you're on the green. With three different locations in Herald Square, Grand Central and Chelsea Piers, the New York Golf Center is a great choice no matter where you live in the city.
#2 Panda Sport Golf
Panda Sport, a favorite family-owned business in the Brooklyn area, has been providing quality products to athletes for over 20 years. In addition to a great selection of apparel and equipment brands, they have a great try-before-you-buy program, so you can try a few on the green before deciding if you want to pay. Panda Sport Golf is also located right next door to the original Panda Sport, so if you're an all-around athlete, or if you have friends and family who love to play, Panda should definitely be one of your go-to places to shop.
#3 Paragon Sports
One of the biggest names in sports apparel, Paragon Sports offers a wide selection of great brands and styles, at prices that won't break the bank, no matter how you choose to play. With a large inventory of brands such as Nike, Under Armour, Foot Joy and many more, Paragon will become one of your most frequent stops for all things golf apparel. While their selection of golf gear is limited to a few gloves and balls, if you're looking for a polo shirt that will keep you cool in the middle of summer, spiked shoes that won't slip when the course gets rough, or pants that move the way you want and not the way you're forced to, Paragon is a great choice for men, women, and kids, no matter the sport.
The Start
Regardless of your skill level or desire to advance, 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 see that golf in New York can be a great experience that will bring you closer to those you care about, improve your confidence, and give you a good time. Now go out there, play some golf and have fun!