Custom Fitting: Why It Matters and How to Get It Done
In the world of golf, every detail counts, from the choice of ball to the grip of your club. Yet one factor is often overlooked by amateurs and even some experienced players: custom fitting. While it’s tempting to assume off-the-shelf equipment is “good enough,” the truth is that properly fitted clubs can transform your game. In this article, we’ll explore why custom fitting matters, what it involves, and how to go about getting it done.
Why Custom Fitting Matters
(1) Better Accuracy and Consistency
Every golfer has a unique swing - differences in tempo, angle, speed, and strength. Using clubs designed for someone else’s swing often leads to inconsistency in ball flight and control. Custom fitting ensures your clubs match your natural motion, improving shot accuracy and distance control.
(2) Improved Comfort and Confidence
Clubs that feel right in your hands encourage confidence. When you’re standing over a shot with a club that fits your posture and swing, you’re more likely to commit to your shot - that mental edge can be just as important as the physical benefits.
(3) Maximised Performance
From driving off the tee to delicate pitch shots, fitted clubs help you make the most of your abilities. You’ll experience better launch angles, optimal spin rates, and more consistent ball striking, all of which contribute to lower scores and more enjoyable rounds.
What’s Involved in a Custom Fitting?
A custom fitting session is typically conducted by a certified fitter or PGA professional and involves several key elements:
Swing Analysis
Using high-speed cameras or launch monitors (like TrackMan or GCQuad), your swing is analysed for club speed, attack angle, ball flight, and more.
Static Measurements
Your height, wrist-to-floor measurement, hand size, and posture are all assessed. These help determine proper shaft length, lie angle, and grip size.
Clubhead Selection
Based on your skill level and swing style, you’ll try different clubhead types - game improvement, players’ irons, or blades to see which offers the best performance.
Shaft Fitting
Shafts vary in flex, weight, and kick point. A fitting will match you with the right shaft to optimise distance, trajectory, and control.
Grip Fitting
The right grip size and material can enhance feel and reduce tension in your hands, improving consistency and comfort.
How to Get Fitted
Here’s how to get started with custom fitting:
1. Visit a Reputable Fitter
Look for a certified fitting centre or golf retailer with professional fitters and advanced equipment. Many club manufacturers also have fitting days or mobile fitting vans.
2. Choose What to Fit
You can get fitted for your entire bag or focus on one club type like drivers, irons, or putters. Even a wedge or putter fitting can have a big impact.
3. Don’t Be Intimidated
Custom fitting isn’t just for pros. Golfers of all levels can benefit. In fact, high-handicap players often see the biggest improvements from fitted clubs.
4. Be Honest About Your Game
Share your usual shot patterns, struggles, and goals. The fitter’s job is to help, not judge. The more accurate the information, the better the results.
Is Custom Fitting Worth It?
Absolutely. While custom fitting may come at an additional cost, it often pays for itself in performance gains, confidence, and long-term satisfaction. Think of it like tailoring a suit, it just fits better, looks better, and performs better.
Conclusion
Golf is a game of precision, and every edge counts. Custom fitting helps align your equipment with your unique swing and physical traits, giving you a major advantage without changing your technique. Whether you’re chasing lower scores or simply more enjoyable rounds, getting custom fit is one of the smartest investments you can make in your golf journey.