What Does a Child Need to Start Golf?
Quick answer: Far less than most parents assume. A few correctly sized clubs (borrowed or rented is fine at first), comfortable closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and water. That’s genuinely enough for the first several sessions — everything else can wait.
The Actual Essentials
- ✓2–3 junior clubs, correctly sizedBorrowed, rented, or a basic starter set — a putter, a wedge and a 7-iron covers most first sessions.
- ✓A few golf ballsRange balls are usually included in a bucket fee; you don’t need your own yet.
- ✓Comfortable closed-toe shoesTrainers are fine — golf-specific shoes aren’t needed until they’re playing regularly.
- ✓Sun protectionHat and sunscreen — most first sessions happen outdoors for an hour or more.
- ✓WaterEspecially for range sessions in warmer months.
What Doesn’t Matter Yet
- ✕ A full 14-club bag — a beginner uses 3 clubs at most for the first several sessions.
- ✕ Golf-specific shoes — trainers work fine until they’re on the course regularly.
- ✕ Golf-specific apparel — comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes are enough.
- ✕ A push cart, rangefinder, or any tech accessories.
“Sized correctly now” beats “will grow into it” every time — oversized clubs teach compensating habits before your child has real ones to fix.
Full club sizing guide — coming soon in our Equip series →Go Deeper
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child use adult clubs cut down?
It’s better to avoid this — cut-down adult clubs usually have the wrong weight and flex for a child’s swing, even at the right length. Junior-specific clubs are built differently, not just shorter.
Do they need a golf glove?
Not essential for beginners. Some children find it more comfortable, but it’s not a barrier to starting without one.
Where can we borrow or rent junior clubs?
Most driving ranges and golf clubs have loaner sets for first-timers — ask when you book your first session.
Start light. Recognition comes from every round anyway.
FamilyGolf Club recognises effort and progress from day one — no comparison to other kids, no gear required to get started.
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