How Height Impacts Ideal Club Length
Your height is the starting point for selecting the correct club length. Taller golfers need longer clubs, while shorter players require more petite club lengths. The standard club length is designed for someone 5'10", while deviations are made for those significantly shorter or taller.
As a rule of thumb, the following golf club lengths based on height are recommended:
Under 5’0” - 0.5 inches shorter
5’0” to 5’4” - 0.5 inches shorter
5'5" to 5'8" - Standard length
5'9" to 6'0" - 0.5 inches longer
6'1" to 6'3" - 1 inch longer
Over 6'3" - 1.5 inches longer
The ideal length gives you proper distance from the clubhead to your hands at address. This allows you to assume an athletic posture without crouching or reaching uncomfortably.
However, height is not the only factor in selecting the optimum club length. Other physical attributes and swing mechanics also impact what length works best.
Custom Fitting Based on Wrist-to-Floor Measurement
Many club fitters use your wrist-to-floor measurement as a starting point for selecting club length. This gives a more accurate baseline than height alone.
Here is a guide to correct club length based on wrist-to-floor distance:
30-31 inches - 0.5 inches longer
29-30 inches - 0.25 inches longer
28-29 inches - Standard length
27-28 inches - 0.25 inches shorter
26-27 inches - 0.5 inches shorter
25-26 inches - 0.75 inches shorter
Under 25 inches - 1 inch shorter
To measure wrist-to-floor distance, stand upright with your arms relaxed at your sides. Place a tape measure or yardstick on the floor perpendicular to your feet. Measure from the floor to the prominent wrist bone on your trail arm (opposite your dominant hand).
Custom fitting using wrist-to-floor distance fine tunes club length based on your unique proportions. Those with longer arms relative to their height require longer clubs than standard height recommendations.
Other Physical Attributes Affecting Ideal Length
Along with standing height and arm length, other physical attributes impact proper club length including:
Hand Size
Golfers with larger hands often perform better with longer clubs. More space between the grip cap and your trail hand promotes solid leverage and hinging. Those with smaller hands benefit from shorter clubs that fit comfortably in their grip.
Strength and Flexibility
Strong, flexible golfers can control longer clubs without sacrificing consistency or increasing injury risk. More length generates additional clubhead speed for those capable of an aggressive, athletic motion. Senior golfers and others lacking strength or flexibility require more petite club lengths.
Swing Arc
A flatter, sweeping swing arc creates the need for longer clubs. Upright swing planes call for shorter lengths to prevent overextension. Matching club length to your swing arc keeps the clubhead and hands working together efficiently.
Other Considerations for Proper Length
Along with physical attributes, other factors impact ideal club length including:
Age
Seniors and juniors may opt for shorter clubs to accommodate restricted flexibility and strength. However, some talented youth players can control longer lengths fitting their rapid swing speed.
Skill Level
High handicap golfers often perform best with shorter clubs providing extra control. As skills improve, moderately longer lengths gain appeal for maximizing distance.
Injuries/Restrictions
Golfers with back injuries, arthritis, or other restrictions benefit from clubs shortened to prevent strain and discomfort. Oversized grips allow comfortable positioning with shortened clubs.
Club Type
Driver lengths are generally 1/2 inch longer than fairway woods or hybrids. Iron lengths progressively decrease by 1/4 inch through the set starting at 36 inches for a standard 6-iron. Wedge lengths continue descending to match full swing distances.
Fitting Process for Ideal Length
Undergoing a professional club fitting session is ideal for determining your optimal combination of club lengths. Here is an overview of the fitting process:
Measurement of key physical attributes like height, wrist-to-floor distance, hand size, etc.
Flexibility and strength assessment, often using special testing equipment
Analysis of your swing mechanics, plane, and speed using video and launch monitor data
Trying various length combinations using extendable demo clubs
Testing different lengths with your normal clubs by adjusting hosel settings
Verifying consistent ball-striking and forgiveness with custom lengths
Fine-tuning lengths based on performance, comfort, and preferences
Dialing in proper lies, lofts, grips, and shafts to match new lengths
With this comprehensive fitting process, you can zero in on the ideal golf club lengths to maximize consistency and comfort. Investing in properly fit clubs designed for your proportions and swing pays dividends in both enjoyment and performance.
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