Golf is one of the most popular sports globally, and because of that, there’s certainly no shortage to choose from when it comes to equipment. Hundreds and hundreds of manufacturers produce everything from clubs, tees, balls, putters, shoes, clothing, and accessories.

Having so many products and golf-specific equipment to choose from is one of the best things about playing the game of golf; that being said, knowing what piece of equipment to choose and from what company can be overwhelming.

As a professional coach and someone who has twenty years in the golfing and professional sporting industry, I’ve tried pretty much every accessory out there. Unfortunately, many of them are not worth the money and trouble. In this article, I’ve done the research for you and have compiled twenty useful and practical “must-have” golfing accessories for 2022.

You’ll find plenty of accessories ranging from alignment sticks to golf gloves and umbrellas; you’ll also find a “bonus” buying guide that will come in handy when purchasing gifts for friends or loved ones. Let’s get started.

Golf Tees

Golf tees are probably the most underrated piece of equipment in the game, but without them, I doubt very much that amateur golfers would be able to hit their driver off-the-deck.

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Unfortunately, tees constantly break, meaning they always need to be replenished. However, if you’re new to golf, you might not realize that tees come in various sizes. Longer tees are generally used for teeing off with a driver, while shorter tees are used for iron play.

Headcovers

Headcovers are probably one of the most essential pieces of golfing equipment you can buy. Not only can you purchase some really cool-looking covers, but they serve a purpose because they protect your expensive clubs from getting scratched or damaged.

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You’ll find a whole bunch of different types of covers for your driver, fairway woods, and putter. Headcovers also come in a variety of different shapes, such as long socks and others that have bobbled heads. Last Christmas, my daughter gifted me a Bugs Bunny driver and putter headcover; Bugs bunny is her favorite character; they sit proudly on my clubs and are quite the talking point.

GPS Tools

Most golf courses now have comprehensive GPS coverage, and, as such, the need for golfers to have a high-level GPS tool is essential.

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The wonderful thing about GPS is that not only does it help you to navigate your way around the course, but it provides valuable data such as yardage and elevation. Having access to this data allows you to choose the right club and help keep your long irons out of the water hazards.

Golf Shoes

Selecting the right pair of golf shoes is no walk in the park, and with so many brands on the market, it can be daunting, especially as many shoes can cost as much as $300.

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But in reality, purchasing golf shoes is just the same as buying a pair of sneakers. Do your research and try on various brands and types to see which pair suits you best. Golf shoes also come with hard spikes or soft spikes, and you can even get some that look like runners.

I recommend investing in a good pair of golf shoes made from durable materials that are waterproof and lightweight. You’ll also need to consider the climate you live in; if you live in warmer climates, look for light and breathable shoes. Those golfers residing in colder climates need to choose shoes that protect from the cold and are waterproof.

Golf-Specific sunglasses

Sunglasses help protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, wind, and allergens like pollen that can cause dry eyes and hayfever. While you can wear regular fashion sunglasses, your best option is to purchase a golf-specific pair.

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Golf-specific sunglasses have lenses designed to cut down on-course glare and help you read the greens much more clearly than without. They also have durable frames and rubber grips perfect for keeping them on your head while swinging.

Golf Skirts

Purchasing good golf skirts is paramount, particularly for those lady golfers living or playing in warmer climates. Look to light and breathable materials that allow you to move freely while swinging the club. Your best bet is to buy a few different styles of skirts that can help you meet the needs of varying dress code requirements.

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Golf Pants and shorts

Golf is, as you know, a “gentlemen’s game,” which is exactly why you need to invest in a couple of pairs of stylish golfing pants. Golf courses generally still have pretty strict dress code regulations, which, to be honest, I love about the game; the traditions and history are an integral part of what makes golf so great.

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In recent years as golf courses have softened their codes, golf shorts have become increasingly popular; actually, I only wear golf shorts because I like to stay cool, and they’re easy to swing in. Golf shorts are great off the course and can be used as a nice pair of dress shorts too.

Divot Tools

Those who don’t play the game have no idea what a “divot tool” is, but for us hard-core golfers, we know exactly how important they are. Divot tools are small and have “two-prongs” that help you fix the divots left by your ball after it hits the green. Repairing your divots is non-negotiable, and those golfers that don’t are frowned upon.

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Alignment Stick Covers

Alignment sticks help with, yep, you guessed it, alignment, and just as golfers want to protect their expensive clubs, they also want to keep their alignment sticks from getting damaged. Alignment sticks are used by golfers of all levels and help with squaring the club and checking the swing plane and aim.

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Some alignment sticks can be costly, so it is essential for golfers to ensure they are stored and covered appropriately. Alignment stick covers come in various shapes and sizes, and you can find a wide range of varying features and materials.

Golf Hats

Purchasing a good golfing hat is a must, and when you consider a round of golf can last up to 5 hours, you’ll regret not having one. Your golfing hat should be wide-brimmed if possible, which helps to keep harmful UV rays off your face and neck.

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Your hat should be light and made of a sweat-wicking material to help keep you as cool as possible. Make sure you leave a spare cap in your golf bag; that way, you’ll never go without it.

Golf Gloves

Golf gloves stop your club from flying out of your hands when they get sweaty. A good golf glove will also prevent you from developing nasty blisters after gripping the club so many times throughout the round.

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They let you swing the club with confidence and play a significant part in helping you control the clubface. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve left my glove at home, so be sure to keep a few in your bag.

The Humble Umbrella

Golfers that play all year round can tell you how important a high-quality golfing umbrella is. Rain, sun, or hail, your umbrella can help keep you and your clubs protected from the elements.

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Golfing umbrellas are much bigger than their “everyday” counterparts and can be used off the course, such as enjoying a day at the beach with the family. Most golf bags have holders and straps on the sides to secure your umbrella.

Golf Bag

Without a doubt, the golf bag is the most important piece of equipment that any golfer will buy. A well-made golf bag will last a lifetime if looked after correctly and can make a real statement when out on the course.

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There are several different types of golf bags so take your time to consider a few factors before purchasing. Factors like how often you play? Do you walk or take a cart? And your budget are all questions that need to be answered. When shopping, you’ll find tour bags, cart bags, stand bags, pencil bags, sunday bags, and weatherproof bags.

A high-quality golf bag can set you back hundreds of dollars, so it makes sense to consider the factors above before burning a big fat hole in your wallet.

Putter Covers

Like your driver, fairway woods, and alignment stick, your putter also needs a protective cover; some might even say it “deserves” a cover. Without a cover, your putter will likely become damaged as it bangs against the other clubs in your bag, especially when driving in a golf cart. So do your putter and your game a favor and purchase a putter cover.

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Outerwear

For many, the best part about playing golf is being out amongst nature and enjoying the sun; but we golfers know that sometimes the golf course can be a pretty miserable place to be. Purchasing appropriate clothing that will help protect you from the elements like the cold, sun, wind, and rain will keep you warm and dry and let you finish the round in relative comfort.

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When shopping for outerwear, look for clothing like windbreakers, waterproof jackets, and vests; winter gloves can also come in handy for golfers in colder climates. Outerwear can be pretty expensive, so I suggest purchasing them during the summer months as many golf shops have a surplus left over from the last season.

Golf Towels

When you head out to the course, there are a few items that you should never forget, and one of them is your golf towel. Your golf towel is essential for two main reasons; wiping your sweat away and cleaning your clubs.

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Getting into the habit of cleaning your clubs after each shot is valuable as it helps keep the grooves in your club clean; when the grooves get dirt in them, it prevents them from imparting spin on the ball, which results in loss of control.

Golf Belts

Now hang; on, I know what you’re thinking; Can’t I just wear my regular belt? The short answer is yes. However, golf is a sport with a strict dress code, and many clubs have rules and regulations regarding casual wear and sagging pants. Let’s not also forget that golf is also a sport for the “fashionista,” so why not splurge on a nice golfing belt that matches your shirt and pants.

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A Golf Cooler

Golf coolers are perfect for those golfers who spend long days out on the course and need to keep their food and drink chilled. If you live and play in warmer climates, the humble cooler might be the best investment you’ve ever made. Many high-quality coolers can keep food and drinks chilled for up to 12 hours, perfect for those who have to drive a distance to and from the course.

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Valuables Bag

Keeping your valuables safe in a specific pouch is an unfortunate “must-have” accessory in today’s day and age. Although, with that being said, golfers and golf clubs are generally very secure and friendly environments, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. You can store your watch, wallet, car keys, and any other valuables you may have. Most golf bags have secret pockets, adding another layer of protection and security.

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Golf Ball Retrievers

If you’ve been playing golf for quite a while now, there’s no doubt you’re fully aware of how expensive golf balls can be, especially if they keep finding their way into the water hazard. Well, no need to worry anymore because the golf ball retriever is your new savior.

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Retrievers come in varying lengths and sizes, with some fitting in your bag right next to your clubs while others fold away for convenient storage. When purchasing your golf ball retriever, make sure it can retrieve balls at least 6 feet away and that it’s made from durable and lightweight material.

Choosing The Right Golfing Gift

Ok, that was a comprehensive list of practical golfing accessories; but what if you want to buy a golfing gift for friends or family and have no idea where to start. Well, keep reading, and you’ll learn everything you need to know about buying the perfect golfing gift.

First Things First

If you’re new to the game, you first need to brush up on some reading. Jumping on the internet and searching for information on the accessories you’d like to buy is highly recommended. Many golf accessories come in specific sizes, so you must ensure you’re purchasing the correct one. For example, putters come in varying shapes and sizes, meaning when buying a putter cover, you need to know which one to get.

When researching, take your time because many sites are only interested in your money and are not interested in selling you high-quality and practical golfing accessories. Golfing gifts can be expensive, so before handing over your hard-earned cash, you better be 100% certain.

Just as with many products, the more expensive it is doesn’t always mean it will be better. For example, golfing gifts like tees and divot tools are cheap to buy, and to be honest, there’s no need to splurge on accessories like these.

Game Style

Golfers come in many different shapes and sizes, which means they also have various game styles and personalities. Understanding the game style of the person you’re going to gift will go a long way in ensuring you choose the right accessory. For example, are they tech nerds? If the answer is yes, you might want to purchase a GPS accessory.

On the other hand, they might have a very carefree and aggressive game style, in which case buying an alignment stick would be a complete waste of time and, more importantly, a waste of money.

It makes sense to do some research and snoop around because the last thing you want is for your heartfelt golfing gift to become a dust collector.

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Never Gift Clubs

When buying a gift for golfers, you should never buy golf clubs or a putter. Golf clubs are the most critical piece of equipment, and most golfers are very selective about their clubs. There are so many brands on the market that it’s easy for someone looking to buy a gift to be completely baffled.

With 14 clubs, including drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, iron, wedges, and putters, it’s near impossible to choose the right club for a friend or loved one. Then you need to factor in that each club has different shaft lengths and stiffness, varying grip sizes, and specific loft and lie angles. Golfers are a funny bunch, and most like to use clubs from one particular brand. However, some golfers like myself use three different brands; take a look in my bag, and you’ll find Callaway irons and woods, Vokey wedges, and a Ping putter.

If you’re still not deterred and would like to buy a set of clubs or a putter, a better option might be to buy a gift card. Most golf shops offer gift cards, and in all honesty, it’s probably the better gift to buy rather than spending money on a club or putter that might become a dust collector.

Alternative Golfing Gifts

When it comes time to buy your golfing gift, why don’t you try to think outside of the box? Some of the best golfing gifts aren’t used on the course but still provide great value.

One of the best presents you can buy is a golf book. More than likely, if the person you’re gifting loves golf, they’ll love reading about golf; you can buy books focused on instruction, philosophy, fitness, and the mental side of the game. Another good gift for golfers is Bluetooth speakers. Although golf is generally considered a quiet gentleman’s game, you can play music while on the course, especially if you’re the only one out there.

Outerwear is something every golfer will appreciate, and it’s much easier to buy than a club or a putter. When looking to buy outerwear, think of clothing like wind jackets, vests, thermal wear, and beanies. A thermos is another good gift, particularly for those long winter months; there’s nothing better than taking a sip of warm tea or coffee between shots.

The Final Wrap

There you have it; a list of 20 must-have golfing accessories that every golfer needs: golf shoes, towels, divot repair tools, and alignment stick covers, to name a few. Most of the accessories are reasonably priced and don’t cost an arm and a leg.

When buying a golfing gift, don’t “overthink” it; Outerwear, books, Bluetooth speakers, and a thermos make excellent alternative gifts, and again, they won’t break the bank.

Finally, the old adage for buying any gift still rings true “it’s the thought that counts.”