Fairway Woods for Advanced Players High Handicappers

August 12, 2009 by admin

Advanced players should already have a strong idea of what they're looking for in new clubs, and fairway woods are no exception.

Many advanced players are strong enough with their irons and their drivers that they aren't looking for a substitute to avoid hitting with an uncomfortable club. They’re looking for woods that allow them to control their shots, forgiving enough to alleviate the damage from slight mis-hits but not focused on that at the expense of shot-shaping ability.

Most low-handicappers are looking for factors like feel and control as well as distance, though nobody is going to turn down a few extra yards. Some may prefer a lower-trajectory club to power through the air, while others might want a higher launch angle. That's a personal decision, but it's important to keep that in mind when looking in the pro shop, because a high-loft three-wood is useless to someone looking for a lower ball flight.

Another option that may appeal to some advanced players is the ability to adjust the weight, whether it's at the factory or on the first tee. That allows a draw bias or a neutral ball flight as desired.

Finally, advanced players should pay attention to the shaft. Most low handicappers have a faster swing speed, and should go with a steel shaft, which offers more control than graphite but requires that to generate the same distance. Those with slower swing speeds should pick a graphite shaft, which increases the speed but offers less control. Advanced players with faster swing speeds should pick a stiffer shaft, with those with slower speeds needing a more flexible shaft.

Advanced players probably have a good idea of what they’re looking for in a fairway wood. The big test is not to be blinded by all the shiny new clubs at the pro shop, but stay focused on what works for their games and can best do what they’re looking for.