Your golf game is impacted by how often you play and practice, years at the sport, and the equipment you use. It’s always tempting to buy the latest gear, and sometimes, that may be necessary, but you may only need to replace a specific club or two to improve your game. The professionals at Etter’s Golf Center, in Cincinnati, OH, offer the following tips for when you need to consider replacing your golf clubs.

How to Tell When You Need to Replace Your Golf Clubs

1. Wear

Clubs wear unevenly; your wedges and driver may need replacing long before your putter or woods. Inspect the grooves on your clubs. Worn down or absent grooves will impact your play. It’s also important to have the lofts checked once a year. Pro shops can check and adjust the loft, extending the life of a favorite club. Keeping them clean is also important for overall longevity. When you just can’t get the delivery on a driver or wedge after a tuneup or inspection, it’s time to shop for a new one.

2. Fit

Your fit will shift over time. Working with a pro shop to establish your lie angle, swing speed, and other nuances of your skills will help determine which clubs need replacing. Changes in body strength, height, and age all may determine aspects of fit.

3. Reshafting or Regripping

You may find after working with a professional fitter or pro shop that adjustments to existing clubs are all you need rather than replacing the entire piece. A softer, lighter shaft may be appropriate if you don’t play as often. Replacing steel shafts with graphite is a good way to tailor your clubs to how you play today.

Grips also make a difference in the way a club handles for you. A general rule of thumb is to replace grips every 18 months or so if you play 3 or more times a week in a fairly temperate climate. If you find your grips are slippery, worn down, or feel non-responsive, have a pro shop inspect and replace them if necessary.

A set of golf clubs can last most players for years. But as you improve, age, or change the frequency of play, you may find that replacing certain clubs will benefit your game. Etter’s Golf Center, serving Cincinnati, OH, has been repairing clubs for 30 years. They feature a practice range, pro shop, club fitting, and lessons for all abilities, and they also have a fun mini golf range to entertain golfers of all ages. Visit their website for more information or call (513) 563-8661 to schedule repairs or lessons.