Golf has a reputation for being a little intimidating when you're first starting, but it doesn’t have to be. The truth is, you don’t need a full bag of clubs, expensive gear, or even a perfect swing to get started. You just need the right mindset, a few essentials, and a willingness to learn.
Whether you’re here to challenge yourself, meet new people, or simply enjoy a walk on the fairways, this guide will help you start golfing with confidence.
Why More Women Are Taking Up Golf
More women than ever are picking up a golf club, and it’s easy to see why:
- It’s social. Golf is a great way to meet people, whether you’re at a ladies’ clinic or playing a casual round.
- It’s a lifelong sport. You can start at any age and play for decades.
- It’s empowering. More brands, coaches, and communities (like The Clubhouse) are making the game more welcoming for women.
- It’s challenging (in a good way). Every round is a chance to improve—and celebrate the small wins.
So, if you’ve been thinking about giving golf a go, now is the perfect time.
Step 1: Get the Right Gear (Without Wasting Money on the Wrong Stuff)
One of the biggest mistakes beginners make? Thinking they need to spend a fortune on equipment before even knowing if they like the game.
Here’s the truth: You don’t need a full set of clubs, gendered golf balls, or the latest high-tech gear to start playing.
Golf Clubs: What You Actually Need
Forget the marketing hype about “women’s clubs.” What matters isn’t gender—it’s your swing speed. That changes a lot as you learn, so getting properly fitted down the track is smart, but not essential when you’re just starting.
Budget-friendly advice:
- You only need a handful of clubs to get a feel for the game. A driver, a 7-iron, a wedge, and a putter are more than enough to start.
- Borrow clubs from a friend or pick up a second-hand set before committing to something expensive.
- When you're ready for a proper set, Drummond Golf offers free club fittings to help you find the right clubs based on your swing speed and ability.
Golf Balls: Don’t Fall for the Marketing
Golf balls branded as “women’s” are mostly a gimmick. All that matters is compression, which is based on swing speed—not gender.
Best approach:
- When you're starting out, you’ll lose a lot of balls, so don’t waste money on expensive ones.
- Look for second-hand balls from top brands (Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade) at your local golf shop or online.
- If they’re chewed up, scuffed, or cracked, forget it. A damaged ball makes the game harder than it already is.
Shoes & Apparel: Comfort is Key
- Shoes: Spikeless golf shoes help with grip, but regular trainers are fine when you’re starting.
- Clothes: Many courses have dress codes, so check their rules on the website. A polo and shorts usually does the trick. Check out the Linksy Golf Apparel Collection for stylish and comfortable options made for female golfers.
- A good glove: A Cabretta leather golf glove helps with grip and prevents blisters.
- Sun protection: A lightweight golf hat is a must for long rounds in the sun.
Step 2: Learn the Basics (The Most Important Part)
Golf is hard. It’s a technical game, and trying to teach yourself from scratch can be frustrating. The best way to start? Get lessons. This way you learn the right way, and don't have to unlearn your bad habits immediately (we all have bad habits).
The Best Way to Learn Golf on a Budget
Private lessons are great, but if you’re looking for a more affordable option, check out a “Get Into Golf” program searchable here.
- These are group lessons designed for beginners at a fraction of the cost of private coaching.
- Many clubs offer ladies-only clinics, so you can meet other women learning the game too - bonus!
Tip: Ask your local courser/coach if they offer a "getting on-course" lesson.
Playing your first few holes with a pro takes the pressure off and helps you learn course etiquette naturally. Start small; a few holes first, then work up to 9, then 18.
Step 3: Practice, Practice, Practice
Like anything new, golf takes time - but that’s part of the fun.
Here’s how to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed:
- Hit the driving range. No pressure, just focus on getting comfortable with your swing.
- Start with short courses. Par-3s are great for beginners, with shorter distances while building confidence.
- Practice putting. Short game skills (chipping and putting) will save your score, the length of your hit is not the most important part for scoring!
- Play with other beginners. You’ll feel more comfortable learning alongside people at the same level.
Tip: Don’t try to smash the ball. A smooth, controlled swing is far better for results than brute force.
Step 4: Play Your First Round with Confidence
Your first time on the course might feel intimidating, but everyone starts somewhere.
- Arrive early to warm up and get comfortable.
- Don’t rush. Play at your own pace, but be mindful of keeping up with the group ahead. It's not a competition, so if you hit into the trees or first tee shot only go 5 meters? Throw it onto the fairway and hit from there. Don't beat yourself up, help yourself by playing from better positions.
- Limit your shots: While learning, cap your shots on each hole to triple or quad bogey, yes they will happen (a lot) but while playing on course you don't want to play out there for hours and hours. For the sake of your mental game, and speed of play for the groups behind you. Keep it moving.
- Enjoy the experience. The score doesn’t matter, just have fun!
Remember: If you're struggling on a hole, pick up your ball and move on. Golf is supposed to be enjoyable.
Step 5: Join a Women’s Golf Community
Golf is way more fun when you have people to share it with. Find a local group, join a ladies’ clinic, or connect with other female golfers online.
Have a look on Facebook for social groups, like our Social Golf Girls Sunshine Coast are the perfect way to connect with other players locally.
At The Clubhouse (Linksy Golf’s blog), we celebrate women in golf, share tips, and create a space where new players feel welcome.
Final Thoughts: Just Get Out There & Have Fun
Golf can seem overwhelming at first, but the best way to learn is to just start playing. Take lessons, hit the range, and don’t worry about being perfect, every golfer was a beginner once, and everyone is focused on their own game not yours... really they aren't paying attention at all.
If you’re ready to get started, grab a good glove, find a beginner-friendly course, and go have fun. And if you need gear made for women, check out the Linksy Golf Collection—designed for fit, feel, and performance.