Golf specifications can be confusing, especially if you’re unsure what the terms mean. Luckily, you don’t need to memorize every golf club specification, but it never hurts to have at least an idea of what they mean and how they impact your game when you’re playing golf.
Club specifications might be intimidating to the average golfer, but they’re essential in choosing the right equipment to fit your game and goals. Knowing what the specifications mean can significantly impact how you play. Let’s break down these basic specs to understand them better and use them to your advantage when searching for golf clubs.
Clubface Angle
Clubface Angle is a measurement that describes how far open or closed your club face is at the address. A neutral position, where your face and target line are parallel, has several degrees between 0 and 10. The higher you go, from 0 to 10 degrees, the more closed (or shut) your face will be at the address. The lower you go, from 0 to -10, the more open (or wide-open) your face will be at the address. In general, it’s easier to hit shots with an open stance than it is with a closed one—and vice versa.
Club Length
It is best to have someone who knows what they are doing measure you when choosing a length. You can also purchase a measuring tape that will give you your exact size. Club length is based on height and only matters when purchasing clubs for competition. In most cases, it is not necessary to worry about your clubs’ length because any off-the-shelf clubs will be appropriate for recreational play. Club Length does matter in some instances, as amateur players competing in tournaments must use their equipment during events.

Head Weight
Golf clubs typically range from around 300 grams to over 500 grams. Typically, the heavier they are, the longer they can make your shot; however, that’s not always true. It can also add distance to your shot if you are a beginner or someone who doesn’t have quite as much power in their swing. Some beginners prefer lighter head weights because they don’t have to think about swinging as hard as they would with a heavier head weight.
Grip Size
Grip size is usually expressed in inches. Most standard men's grips are about 4 1/2 to 4 7/8 inches long, while women's grips range from 3 3/4 to 4 1/4 inches. The larger your hands, or if you have large knuckles, a more extended grip may be more comfortable for you. The same is true if you have tiny hands or short fingers.
A grip size that is too small can lead to blisters and discomfort when you play, especially if you are a regular golfer. To measure your grip size, wrap a cloth tape measure around your dominant hand at its widest point, right below your knuckles. Round up or down depending on which measurement is closest to four inches.
The loft
Loft describes how high a club head sits off a golfer’s body at address. It’s determined by subtracting a club’s degrees of angle from 90°. A higher loft number increases ball trajectory and helps clear obstacles or land on higher, softer lies. A low loft number results in a lower trajectory and increased spin rate for more control around obstacles.
Related Pages
- Golf Clubs — a history
- Golf Clubs for sale in the online store
- Golf Equipment - including Clubs
