Summary

• Do inspect the grooves, grips, and shafts on any used clubs you buy to make sure they’re in good playing shape and won’t require immediate repairs or replacements.

• Do look for reputable brands like TaylorMade, Ping, or Titleist—quality gear holds up better and performs more consistently.

• Don’t skip your club fitting—a proper fit improves your swing and control. Many Calgary golf shops, including The Winston Golf Club’s Golf Shop, offer fitting services.

• Do check the serial number, because counterfeit clubs are common. The serial number is an easy way to confirm a used club’s authenticity, especially for big-name brands.

• Do buy from a trusted Calgary retailer—this gives you access to expert advice, fittings, and return options, which can make the process safer and more reliable.

Buying used golf clubs in Calgary can be a great way to save money—if you know what to look for. But there are a few common pitfalls that can make the difference between a great deal and a bad investment, from worn grooves to counterfeit gear and more.

Whether you’re new to the game or upgrading your set, this guide breaks down the key dos and don’ts to help you shop smart. Learn what to check, what to avoid, how to get fitted for golf clubs by a PGA of Canada Professional, and more.

Dos For Buying Used Clubs in Calgary

Check the club condition

A shiny head isn’t everything. Sometimes, it pays to take a closer look at used clubs before spending money on them. Here are some steps to follow:

• Take a close look at the grooves. These lines and indentations on the clubface should still have some bite, especially on wedges and irons. Worn-down grooves can seriously affect spin and control.

• Check the grips—if they’re slick, cracked, or dried out, they’ll likely need replacing, which can add to your overall cost. If that’s the case, Winston’s Golf Shop offers professional regripping services to get your clubs back in top shape.

• Don’t forget the shafts—look for dents, rust, or bends. A damaged shaft can ruin your swing—and your round.

Get fitted—even for used clubs

Just because you’re buying used doesn’t mean you should skip the fitting process. In fact, a proper fit can make all the difference in how well the clubs perform for you.

Club fitting is about selecting golf clubs that match your unique body measurements and play style. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

• Initial Consultation: You and your pro will discuss your current clubs, golf game, and goals. This will help them understand your needs, as well as any issues you’re having.

• Swing Analysis: You’ll be asked to hit some shots with your current clubs using a launch monitor. Your pro will analyze your swing speed, swing plane, impact location, and ball flight data (launch angle, spin rate, etc.). They’ll also look at how your swing is affected by different shafts and clubheads.

• Testing Different Clubs: Your pro will ask you to try different club heads, shafts, and grip combinations. They’ll ask you how each one feels, and collect data about your swing.

• Fine-tuning and Recommendations: Based on the data and your feedback, the fitter will make recommendations about the best clubs for you.

Having clubs that fit you properly can make a big difference. Lie angle, shaft flex, and grip size all affect your swing—and even minor adjustments can help you hit more consistently.

Remember: in certain weather conditions, your pro may ask you to use a golf simulator when assessing your swing. Read more about what to expect here:

Read More: Everything You Need to Know about Trying a Golf Simulator

Shop local stores with return policies

Buying used golf clubs from a reputable local shop in Calgary gives you peace of mind, because you know an expert has already looked at them and a trustworthy business is ready to stand behind them. It’s like buying a used car from a dealership vs. buying one from a stranger online.

Golf clubs typically offer demo clubs, giving you a chance to test them out before committing to a purchase. Local stores may even offer return policies or short trial periods, so you can make sure they suit your swing. If you’re buying at a golf club where you’re a member, you’ll also have opportunities to get expert advice and make sure you’re using them properly.

Read More: 10 Hidden Benefits of Buying a Golf Membership in Calgary

Don’ts for Buying Used Clubs in Calgary

Don’t assume cheaper is better

When buying used golf clubs, it’s tempting to go for the lowest price, but that can cost you in performance. Instead of focusing solely on price, look for quality brands known for durability and consistency—like Callaway, TaylorMade, Titleist, or Ping.

These clubs are built to last and often perform better, even second-hand, than bargain-bin options. A slightly higher upfront cost for a reputable brand can save you frustration down the line.

Don’t skip the serial number

Counterfeit clubs are more common than most golfers realize—especially with high-demand brands like Titleist, TaylorMade, and Callaway. A missing or altered serial number is often the first red flag. Most authentic clubs have a serial number stamped on the hosel or near the clubhead (location varies by brand).

If a club has a valid serial number, you can often contact the manufacturer to verify its authenticity. But if the number is missing—or looks scratched off, inconsistent, or poorly engraved—there’s a good chance the club isn’t genuine. And without a serial number, there’s no way for the maker to confirm it.

When in doubt, walk away. Better yet, stick to trusted sources like authorized dealers or certified used programs from the manufacturer.

Take advantage of club fitting and more at The Winston Golf Club

Whether you’re a member or visiting as a guest, The Winston Golf Club provides expert club fitting for all brands in our golf shop. Our certified PGA of Canada Professionals offer custom fittings that cover everything from loft, lie, shaft flex, and grip size to distance gapping.

As part of our membership benefits, you also gain access to vendor fit days and priority fitting opportunities—which makes it a breeze to fine-tune your set, even if you’re buying used. Visit us today and make sure you’re equipped to make your next game the best one yet.