Golf Handicaps Explained: What They Are and Why They Matter When Choosing Clubs
If you’re new to golf or just trying to improve you’ve probably heard people talk about handicaps. But what exactly is a handicap in golf? And more importantly, how does your handicap affect the kind of clubs you should be using?
At Cotswold Golf Company, we’re here to make golf simpler and more enjoyable for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. In this guide, we’ll break down what a handicap is, the difference between high and low handicappers, and how to choose the best golf clubs for your game.
What Is a Handicap in Golf?
A golf handicap is a number that represents a player’s potential ability. The lower your handicap, the better your skill level.
A high handicap usually means a beginner or casual player (typically 20+ for men, 24+ for women).
A low handicap means a more experienced player who consistently scores near par (generally under 10).
Your handicap helps level the playing field when competing with others, but it also plays a huge role in what equipment will work best for you.
High Handicap vs Low Handicap: What’s the Difference?
Let’s look at the key differences in how high and low handicappers approach the game:
Trait | High Handicapper | Low Handicapper
Skill Level | Beginner / intermediate | Advanced / consistent
Typical Score | 90s or 100+ | 70s to low 80s
Consistency | Inconsistent ball striking | Very consistent ball striking
Swing Speed | Often slower or unrefined | Controlled and efficient
Shot Shaping | Focused on getting straight shots | Can work the ball left/right intentionally
How Your Handicap Affects Club Selection
Not all golf clubs are created equal. The right club can dramatically improve your confidence, distance, and consistency and your handicap helps determine what’s best for your bag.
Best Clubs for High Handicappers
High handicappers benefit from clubs that are:
Forgiving: Large sweet spots reduce the effect of off-centre hits.
Game Improvement Irons: Cavity-back designs offer extra help getting the ball airborne.
Hybrids instead of Long Irons: Easier to launch and more forgiving than traditional long irons.
Higher Lofted Drivers: Easier to get the ball in the air and reduce sidespin.
Mallet Putters: More forgiving and stable for inconsistent strokes.
Best Clubs for Low Handicappers
Low handicappers usually prefer:
Bladed Irons or Player’s Irons: Greater control and feedback.
Lower Lofted Drivers: Less spin, more distance – assuming swing speed is high.
Wedges with Varying Bounce & Grinds: For control around the greens.
Custom Fit Clubs: To fine-tune performance to their exact specifications.
Recommended Products: Player’s irons, forged wedges, adjustable drivers, steel shafts.
Why Getting the Right Clubs for Your Handicap Matters
The wrong clubs can make golf harder than it needs to be. Using advanced clubs as a high handicapper might make it difficult to hit consistent shots. On the flip side, using game improvement clubs as a low handicapper could limit control and shot shaping.
That’s why it’s essential to match your equipment to your ability.
Need Help Choosing the Right Clubs?
At Cotswold Golf Company, we stock a full range of clubs for high handicappers, low handicappers, and everyone in between. Whether you’re looking for a beginner’s set or upgrading to a custom fit, we’re here to help.
Explore our full range of golf clubs and find the perfect fit for your game today.
