Most people begin by borrowing a set of clubs, whether from a friend or hiring from the course. But sooner or later, you will want a set of your own. There are so many different sorts - how do you know what's right for you - the beginner?

Before you go to the shop - some decisions to make.

First, how much do you want to spend. Golf clubs come from tens of dollars to hundreds of dollars each. Unless money is no object, value for money is essential.

If you are looking for second hand clubs you will normally get something older with small heads. Do not buy BLADES, these are recommended for better players and professionals - they have a small 'sweet spot' and no 'cavity'.

Oversize club heads with perimeter weighting are better for a beginner - a bigger 'sweet spot' and a larger hitting area make it easier to hit the ball. The beginner often doesn't hit 'square' and with these large heads an 'off centre shot' will fly further and straighter.

Full or half set?

A full set is better in the long run as every club you need is already there. Even so a putter is generally not included because there are so many different sorts to suit individual needs. Full sets with oversize heads start from around $199 in some stores, and half sets from $120.

Generally stainless steel is used in irons but not woods.

Stainless woods are better. Some are alloy and not as durable. Beginner will mishit woods and the alloy woods will 'mark' a lot worse. Sets with steel woods are normally more expensive but are better in the long run - and they hold their value better for resale (many shops will take the old set in part exchange for a new set)

Steel or graphite shafts? For beginners steel shafts are stronger than graphite. Graphite has more torque or twist between the head and shaft where they meet each other. Mishits result in too much twist which puts strain on the shaft which may result in shaft breaking. Graphite with low torque is available but is very expensive. You will get a better quality club for your money in steel, and it is easier to look after as it will not scratch and much cheaper to replace if necessary. . (Less likely to break when you throw it on the ground in disgust!) You can get a swing speed test in some shops, to see if graphite suits your swing speed.

If you want to, you can spend thousands of dollars on golf equipment. What you are paying for mostly is the name, The big brands spend millions of dollars designing the head, advertising and endorsing the best players in the world to use their equipment. The actual materials are generally no different between $2000 and $500 sets.

If you are very tall, or conversely, very short, or hit the ball very hard you may consider a custom made set. These sets can be made to suit your heights, hands and swing speeds. You can be measured to see if you are different enough to need custom made clubs. Be sure to ask if they are altered at the shop or assembled from scratch at the factory. Altering clubs can affect their performance, so clubs that factory made are better.

After you have chosen your clubs, you need a putter. Putters come in many different shapes and sizes. Go for looks to start with, and price. You don't need to spend a lot of money to find one that suits you. Pick out two or three and try them at the shop. Most shops have a putting green - buy the one that feels t best when you hit the ball. And whichever one you hole the most putts with

Now you need a bag.

For a full set you need at least a 9" bag so that the clubs fit in comfortably. A larger bag that is and option but consider how much you will be playing. If you only play occasionally when the weather is good, a lightweight canvas bad with smaller pockets is sufficient. If you play once a week or more, come rain hail or shine a vinyl bag with longer pockets is better so things like a rainjacket, or jumper can easily fit in.

And remember - branded bags cost more, they don't perform better! The clubs are the main thing, not the bag.

A buggy is optional.

You can play in normal shoes, but golf shoes give better grip. A glove will also improve your grip and prevent blisters. Balls, tees, different sorts of shoes, umbrellas and all the other gear available to you will be covered in next month's article

Now you have your clubs, contact a local golf pro for lessons - 3 or 4 to start. Then practise and play. Good luck.

The next article will cover the differences in balls and other equipment.