Even if you already have your set of clubs, or you are seeking to create a new one, a good lesson you can learn today is measuring them correctly.
Just like all great recipes for success include measuring, therefore a recipe for a good golf game requires some calculation too.
You can find much advice online, and luckily, we did our research and found the most useful information on this debate.
In this guide, we will answer some commonly asked questions, while addressing the importance of measuring the golf club length, but also presenting several methods for calculation – both for casual and professional players.
Why is it important to measure golf club length?
In order to have consistent ball strikes, as well as hit the distance right, it is necessary to be familiar with the golf club length and how long it should be.
If you are playing with clubs that are short, you will bend too much, and if your club is too long, you will stand too erect. Both of these issues can result in less effective swing motion and making fewer chances of hitting the sweet spot of your ball.
Is there a standard I should follow?
You may be surprised, but the answer is no. Golf club makers can make clubs they think are most appropriate to players.
But there is one limitation. According to the United States Golf Association (USGA), golf club length cannot exceed 48 inches. In that sense, you should find a club that fits your height and style of play that is within this limitation.
How can I measure the lengths of my clubs?
When doing your calculations, it would be good to know that the number you’re aiming for combines the lengths of the club-head and the shaft combined.
There are three widely-used techniques for measuring: ruler technique, USGA method, and LDA method.
Ruler technique
This technique will allow you to measure your clubs at home and be prepared in advance. Some people also advise using measuring tape, but to get the most precise measurements, we advise you to use an aluminum 48” ruler.
For best results, follow these three steps:
• Place your club in the playing position, being aware that its sole center is touching the ground.
• Position the tip of a rule by the club’s heel in contact with the ground.
• Measure the distance between the heel and the topmost edge of the grip cap.
This method can be used in all cases, except for putters where the shaft is not located at the heel. For those, make sure that the tip of the rule is in contact with the putter’s shaft at the point it touches the ground, up to the edge of the grip cap.
Usga method
Similar to the previous method, although more precise for professional golf players, USGA created an apparatus with a stop made of iron angled at 60 degrees.
Placing the apparatus against the club sitting on the workbench or facing the wall with the sole’s center touching the ground, aligning the angled iron part with the club-head, you will receive your measures.
The USGA method provides more accurate measurements and results in about 1/8” difference since it measures to the very end of the grip cap and not the edge.
Lda method
Designed for long drive competitors, Long Drivers of America created this method with a 50-inch golf club length limit.
Firstly, the shaft is laid flat against a wall with the toe driver laying on the ground, and measures are being taken from the tip of the toe to the top of the shaft. This method will result in bigger numbers than the previous two mentioned before.
Choosing clubs wisely equals good performance
Preparing yourself and your equipment is essential to any sport. While golf includes many variables which can affect your gameplay, beforehand preparation will always serve you well.
Good thing is, you can now do the measurements by yourself and even help your fellow players do it correctly, as a true gentleman golf player would do.
Not every golf club will fit your style of play or height, so taking into account all little (but very important) aspects can only make you a better player over time.
And if you are still unsure if your clubs fit you correctly, you can always seek professional fitters. They will take into account your height, measure your wrist-to-floor lengths and even inspect the dynamic aspects of your swings, all with a goal of perfecting your strikes and performance.