Having correctly sized golf clubs can have a serious effect on how well you play golf. If it’s too long or too short, you will have problems lining up your shot correctly. While the basic manufacturer’s measurements should work nicely for the passive player, those who are more serious about their game will need more specific measurements.
Drivers range between 43 to 45 inches. Woods range between 40 to 43 inches. Irons range between 34 to 40 inches. Wedges should range between 34 to 36 inches. Putters, as the smallest clubs, should be 33 inches tall. Men’s clubs are generally longer than women’s, so take that into account.
While these are the most basic measurements, clubs need to meet the individual golfer’s needs. Several variables can affect and change the length of club you will need to play to the best of your ability.
Variables
The length of the club will vary depending on each specific type of club, as well as which manufacturer you’re buying from. The material and design of different clubs will play a factor in how long and heavy they will be. Other factors, such as the age, height, gender, and skill level of the golfer in question will change what size of club you will need. When looking for clubs, you should specifically take into account your height, arm length, and your posture when you swing.
Men’s clubs are generally longer than women’s clubs (Best Golf Clubs For Women). Taller golfers will need longer clubs; children and shorter golfers will need shorter clubs. As a general rule, you shouldn’t have to stand too straight or bend too far at the waist when using your clubs.
Drivers
The rule of thumb is to get the longest club length you can manage, as long as it doesn’t impact your ability to make consistent contact with the golf ball. Drivers are the longest club, with the longest shaft and largest heads, used for long-distance shots. The average manufacturer makes drivers between 45 to 46 inches for men and 44 to 45 inches for women.
Woods
Woods are the second-longest clubs, used by players who find drivers challenging. They range at 42 inches for men and 40 to 41 inches for women.
Irons
Irons are the most versatile clubs, and their length will vary depending on the type of iron it is. The 1-9 iron ranges from 39.75 to 40.25 inches for men and 38.75 to 39.25 inches for women. A 3-9 iron ranges 38.75 to 39 inches for men, and 38 inches for women.
Wedge
Wedges (Best Gap Wedges For Backspin) are the second shortest clubs, and vary in length depending on type: pitching wedges, sand wedges, lob wedges, and gap wedges. A pitching wedge should be only half an inch shorter than your 9 iron. The gap wedge should be a full inch shorter than your 9 iron. The sand wedge should be the same length as your gap wedge, but you can usually go 1.5 inches shorter than your 9 iron if needed.
Putter
Putters are the smallest, shortest clubs, used to put the ball in the hole. The average putter is 33 to 33.5 inches for men and 31 to 32.5 inches for women.
Measurements
The length of your clubs also depends on your measurements, such as your height and how long your arms are. There are a few other measurements to take into account. The Lie Angle is the angle created by the center of the shaft and the ground when you’re in the address position. The address position is the most used form when golfing. The ball will be in front of you, between your two feet, and you will position yourself like you’re going to take a hit at the ball.
The second measurement you’ll need is your wrist-floor measurement. To get this measurement, you’ll need a friend. Wear normal shoes and stand on a hard surface with your arms relaxed on your sides. Then, have your friend measure from your wrist crease (where your wrist meets your hand) to the floor.
Once you have your height and wrist-floor measurement, you can use the chart below as a guide to adjust your club length.
How Long Golf Clubs Should Be By Height
| Height (in Inches) | Wrist-Floor Measurement | Adjustment to Club Length |
| 6’8″ + | > 42″ | Add 2″ |
| 6″ – 6’8″ | 41″ – 42″ | Add 1 1/2″ |
| 6’4″ – 6’6″ | 40″ – 41″ | Add 1″ |
| 6’2″ – 6’4″ | 38.5″ – 40″ | Add 1/2″ |
| 6’1″ – 6’2″ | 37″ – 38.5″ | Add 1/4″ |
| 5’7″ – 6’1″ | 34″ – 37″ | Standard |
| 5’4″ – 5’7″ | 32″ – 34″ | Subtract 1/4″ |
| 5’2″ – 5’4″ | 29″ – 34″ | Subtract 1/2″ |
| 5’0″ – 5’2″ | 27″ – 29″ | Subtract 1″ |
| 4’10” – 5’0″ | 25″ – 27″ | Subtract 1 1/2″ |
| < 4’10” | <25″ | Subtract 2″ |
Height and wrist-floor measurements are what are considered “static” measurements, and can easily be done by an amateur golfer. Professional club fitters can supplement these measurements with dynamic measurements. In a dynamic fitting, a professional will watch a player swing the club, and take measurements at impact and by observing the flight of the golfball.
This is a much more complex and involved form of measurement, that may only be worth it for professionals. The average golfer should be able to get by just fine with static measurements and standard length clubs.
A professional can evaluate the angle of your shots and the speed of your swing and can accurately determine which shaft flex would work best for you. Shaft flex is the ability of a golf club’s shaft to bend when force is applied to it. The type of swing you have, whether fast, slow, smooth, or jerky, changes the force and bend of your club. This affects distance and direction, and the length needed. Beginners and golfers with less powerful swings will need a longer, more flexible shaft to compensate. Those with a too-powerful swing will need shorter and stiffer clubs.
By observing the player in motion, the fitter can see if the player has stance issues, such as leaning too far forward, or other movements that could potentially require modifications in the length of their club. The results of a dynamic fitting, when incorporated with static measurements, can create a much more accurate measurement.
Of course, it doesn’t hurt to have a second opinion. Most any course or golf store will be able to help you find the correct clubs. Professional help could not hurt, especially if you’re playing at a level where correctly sized clubs will have a serious effect on your accuracy, distance, and overall performance.
Choosing the right length and type of golf club can end up making a real difference in your next game!
Wrapping Up Golf Club Length
Trying to use clubs that are the wrong length can not only be detrimental to your game, but it can make golfing kind of a drag. If you’re traveling and/or using a set or rentals you’re probably aware that the clubs might not be the perfect size for you. But if you’re going to be using the same clubs consistently you might as well get clubs that will benefit your game. Don’t be afraid to get fitted for clubs so you know you’re getting the correct length of club.