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.

• Buying new from a trusted Calgary retailer can sometimes be more cost-effective than buying used clubs. It 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 seem like a smart way to save money. But there are a few common pitfalls that can turn a seemingly great deal into a bad investment, from worn grooves to counterfeit gear and more.

Below, our pros at The Winston break down the key dos and don’ts of used golf club shopping so you can understand the risks and protect yourself. Discover what to check, what to avoid, and how buying new can be more cost-effective when youget fitted for golf clubs by a PGA of Canada Professional and purchase from a reputable retailer.

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.

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

Get fitted before you buy anything

One of the downsides to buying used clubs is that there’s no fitting process. When you buy new from our golf shop or most other reliable retailers, you’ll work with a pro to find clubs that support your game. But that’s not an option when you’re buying a set of clubs off of Craigslist or Marketplace.

The fitting process shouldn’t be considered optional, either. In fact, a proper fit can make all the difference in how well your 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.

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

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.

Shop local golf shops with return policies

If you are determined to buy used, choose a reputable golf shop. This will allow you to buy clubs that an expert has already assessed. It’s like buying a used car from a dealership vs. buying one from a stranger online.

Just remember that even used clubs can have defects that aren’t obvious at first, so there are no guarantees. The best way to make sure you get clubs that are in excellent condition and match your needs as a player is to purchase new ones.

Buying new can also be more cost-effective—since it’s cheaper to buy a new set you’ll use for years than it is to buy a used set and replace it several times in the same period if it doesn’t end up being what you wanted. And when you purchase new through a reliable golf shop, you’ll benefit from added consumer protections like warranties and return policies.

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 higher-end brands. 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 if it 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

The tips above can help you reduce the risks that come with buying used golf clubs. If you want the best tools for your game, though, buying new is the best way to make sure you’ll be purchasing a set that fits your requirements as a player.

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.