Buzzapp Master 
Best Driver
Callaway Elyte Driver
ProsThis driver is packed with techOnce you get it dialed, you won’t need another driver for yearsCallaway has made some of the best drivers for decadesConsSome full sets cost as much as this driverThe Callaway Elyte driver, the brand’s latest and greatest, is ideal for golfers seeking lightweight performance and premium craftsmanship. Do know that it’s a high-end, brand new driver. But its very high price is justified thanks to the brand’s emphasis on cutting-edge shape design intended to maximize swing speed and distance for players with moderate to slower tempos (a set that includes most of us). The crown is also built from a new aerospace-grade carbon fiber, which helps dial in the optimal center-of-gravity.
Despite the cost, someone would buy it for the significant yardage gains it can unlock, its impressive feel, and the advanced engineering focused on effortless power, making the game more enjoyable and less physically demanding.
Best Fairway Woods
Taylormade Qi35 Fairway Wood
ProsPromotes high ball flight regardless of lieForgiveness across the entire club faceLoft and weight can be adjustedConsThe price is very high for a single clubThanks to a blend of distance and forgiveness, the Qi35 will appeal to a wide range of golfers. Its larger, confidence-inspiring head provides an easy launch and stability through impact—something we could all benefit from regardless of skill level.
Thanks to its forgiveness-focused design, you can expect impressive ball speeds across the face (this includes on mishits). While it may not be as workable as some player models, its strength lies in consistent, high-launching shots that find the fairway. This is a solid choice for those prioritizing ease of use and reliable performance. We should also note that the Qi35s are pricey for fairway woods.
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Best Hybrids
Cobra Darkspeed Adapt Hybrid
Now 10% Off
Credit: AmazonProsHighly adjustableComes in five different loft options for versatilityBlends the best of irons and fairway woodsConsIt’s tough to really dial it in without a fittingThe Cobra Darkspeed Adapt Hybrid stands out from the pack with its stylish and larger head size. Its adjustability sleeve allows you to customize launch and spin for peak performance across different lies and for your swing, which is one of the greatest advantages to playing a high-quality hybrid.
You get a powerful impact feel that produces good ball speed and a high, penetrating trajectory that lets you drop the ball onto the green like the pros. Its impressive forgiveness on off-center strikes makes it a great option for golfers of all levels, especially for those looking to get the benefits of irons and fairway woods at the same time.
Best Irons
PXG Gen7 Chrome Iron Set
ProsThey come in a bunch of configurationsThe Gen7 irons provide the ideal combo of distance, forgiveness, and workabilityAdjustable center weighting allows you to grow into these clubs over timeConsPXG clubs are expensivePXG used to catch a lot of heat in the golf world, but the standout performance of the brand’s clubs has quelled all that in recent years. The brand’s newest offering, the Gen7 irons, are the most advanced set yet—they’re complete with exceptional distance, maximum forgiveness, and the ability to choose between a bevy of options tailored for any golfer.
If you do buy a set like this on Amazon, we’d still recommend doing a bit of post-purchase testing (or better yet, pre-purchase testing) and research to see how you can optimize your setup for the biggest gains on the course.
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Best Putter
Taylormade Spider GTX Putter
ProsTrusted by PGA TOUR professionalsMultiple shaft and color optionsAvailable right- or left-handedConsSpending more on a putter will not make you putt betterAs I said earlier, the Spider putter from TaylorMade is currently used by the two best golfers on the planet, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. The mallet-style putter instills confidence and is much more forgiving than a traditional blade-style putter thanks to its stabilizing shape and counterweights.
The putter comes in a few different options, so we’d recommend going on YouTube or visiting your local golf shop to mess around with a few putter styles before you make your decision.
Best Set
Stix Golf 9 Club Set
ProsA great set for taking your game to the next level once you move past the beginner phaseThe clubs boast sleek looks and designIrons come with steel or graphite shaftsConsYou may want more than nine clubs in your set once you get betterAre you picking up the game faster than expected? You can bypass the initial phases and choose a complete set designed to help you enhance your shot-making abilities.
The 9-club set from Stix Golf has everything you need to take your game to the next level without breaking the bank on one or two expensive clubs. A big benefit of Stix is the option to choose irons with a steel shaft or a graphite shaft. The options aren’t as expansive as some more expensive clubs, but having two choices is nice for everyone from mid-high handicap players whose higher swing speeds may be a bit too much for the extra flex of graphite to newbies who could use the extra flex.
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Best Set for Beginners
Callaway XR Complete Set
ProsEach club in the set prioritizes forgivenessCallaway is an excellent brandThese will grow with you as you improveConsIt’s a lot to pay if you’re not sure you want to actually spend time on the golf courseIn the world of golf, few brands can claim proficiency across all categories, but Callaway is one of them. Known for its premium golf balls, exceptional putters, professional-grade irons, and powerful drivers, Callaway excels in producing high-quality equipment suitable for beginners.
The mallet putter is made by Odyssey and fashioned in its iconic #7 shape, which is ultra-forgiving and provides an excellent touch—two elements you’ll rarely find in an entry-level putter. The irons are classics, based on decades of stellar game-improvement technology, while the hybrids, 3-wood, and driver are modeled after one of golf’s most well-loved drivers, the Paradym.
Frequently Asked QuestionsAre These Clubs Authentic/Genuine and Are They New or Used?To ensure that you get authentic clubs, we recommend that you prioritize buying from Amazon directly or official brand stores within Amazon. For third-party sellers, do your due diligence on their reputation. Always read the full product description for details on condition, making note of the fine print and giving the reviews a once-over before pulling the trigger on a purchase.
How Do I Find the Right Size?The main measurement you want to get right when buying is proper club length (not too tall or too short). The good news is that most of these clubs will have a solid fit for just about anyone from the start. The only initial adjustment you need to make as a beginner is to compensate for your height. If you are over 6’2″, consider sizing a half-inch or more length adjustment on your clubs. If you are under 5’5″, you’ll likely want a half-inch decrease in length adjustment. If you like to go by feel, swinging your friends’ clubs or talking to a pro at your local course will help confirm the sizing you need. As you progress in your game, sizing can be pinpointed further to personalized club sizing, if you choose.
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Will Porter is an LA-based freelance writer covering golf, tech, and travel. In addition to Men’s Health, his work has been published in GQ, Gear Patrol, The Strategist, and others. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him running the trails at Griffith Park or trying to catch every new movie in IMAX at the local movie theater.
Ryan Brower is the Senior Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he tests the best products in outdoor gear and tech. Baseball, surfing, and camping occupied most of his time growing up.
He also trained in martial arts for 12 years and holds a third degree black belt. He has written about the outdoors for nearly two decades and was previously the Managing Editor, Content Performance at Gear Patrol. He is also a Certified Beer Server and previously covered the craft beer industry. Ryan currently lives on the water in New Jersey with his wife and their dog.
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