How to Measure Golf Clubs for Children
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Quick Answer
- Measure your child’s height and their wrist-to-floor distance.
- Use these measurements to find the right junior club size chart.
- Pick clubs that match your kid’s stats for a better game.
Who This Is For
- Parents or guardians gearing up their young golfer with new gear.
- Junior players who have officially outgrown their current sticks.
What to Check First
- Child’s Height: Get an accurate measurement in inches. Stand ’em up straight against a wall.
- Wrist-to-Floor Distance: Measure from the floor to the crease of their palm. This is key.
- Grip Comfort: Make sure they can hold the club without their fingers jamming.
- Current Clubs: See if their old clubs are way too short or long.
Step-by-Step Plan: How to Measure Golf Clubs for Kids
1. Measure Height: Have your child stand tall against a wall. Mark the spot, then measure from the floor to the mark in inches. Mistake to avoid: Letting them slouch or bend their knees.
2. Measure Wrist-to-Floor: With their arm relaxed at their side, measure from the floor to the crease of their palm. Be consistent with this measurement. Mistake to avoid: Not keeping the arm perfectly straight down.
3. Consult a Sizing Chart: Find a reputable junior golf club sizing chart online or at a pro shop. These charts use height and wrist-to-floor measurements. Mistake to avoid: Guessing or using a generic chart.
4. Compare Measurements: Match your child’s height and wrist-to-floor measurements to the closest range on the chart. This will tell you the recommended club length. Mistake to avoid: Trying to force a fit if they’re between sizes.
5. Check Grip Size: Ensure the grip feels right. Their fingers shouldn’t overlap too much, nor should there be a huge gap. Mistake to avoid: Overlooking grip comfort for the sake of length.
6. Select Clubs: Based on the chart and grip check, choose the appropriate junior clubs. For beginners, a 5-piece set is usually a solid start. Mistake to avoid: Buying clubs that are too long, which is a common pitfall.
Common Mistakes
- Using Adult Sizing Charts — Why it matters: Adult proportions are different, leading to clubs that are too long and awkward. — Fix: Always use junior-specific sizing guides.
- Purchasing Clubs That Are Too Long — Why it matters: This forces a bad swing, hinders technique, and can even cause injury. — Fix: When in doubt between sizes, go slightly shorter.
- Ignoring Wrist-to-Floor Measurement — Why it matters: This accounts for arm length, which is critical for proper club length, not just overall height. — Fix: Always take this measurement; it’s just as important as height.
- Assuming All Junior Clubs Are the Same — Why it matters: Brands and models can vary in their sizing, even within junior lines. — Fix: Check the specific manufacturer’s sizing recommendations for the clubs you’re considering.
- Not Considering Grip Size — Why it matters: An ill-fitting grip makes it hard to hold the club correctly, impacting control and feel. — Fix: Ensure the grip allows for a comfortable, secure hold with minimal finger overlap.
FAQ
- What is the most important measurement for determining junior golf club size?
Both height and wrist-to-floor measurement are crucial. Wrist-to-floor is especially important as it accounts for arm length.
- How often should I re-measure my child for golf clubs?
Measure them at least once a year, or whenever you notice they seem to be outgrowing their current clubs. Kids grow fast!
- Can a child use adult clubs that are cut down?
It’s generally not recommended. Cutting down adult clubs changes their swing weight and flex, making them perform poorly for a child. It’s better to buy clubs designed for juniors.
- What if my child is between sizes on the chart?
It’s usually best to err on the side of slightly shorter clubs. This makes it easier for them to learn proper technique without reaching too much.
- How do I know if the grip size is right?
Their fingers should meet the palm comfortably without overlapping significantly. If their fingers dig into their palm, it’s too small. If there’s a large gap, it’s too big.
Michael Reeves is a PGA Professional with over 20 years of experience in competitive golf and instruction. A former Division I collegiate player at the University of Texas, he competed on the mini-tours before transitioning to full-time coaching and golf journalism. He has been a certified PGA teaching professional since 2005 and has worked with players at every level, from absolute beginners to collegiate champions.
His writing has appeared in Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, and The Left Rough. At GolfHubz, Michael leads the editorial team, overseeing fact-checking and ensuring every answer meets the same standard he demands on the lesson tee: clear, evidence-based, and immediately useful.
When he’s not writing or teaching, Michael plays to a +1.4 handicap at his home club in Austin, Texas. He has attended over 40 major championships as a journalist and fan, and has played more than 200 courses across 15 countries.
You can reach Michael at [email protected] or follow his occasional swing analysis posts on the site.