For several hundred years, people have been coming together to play the game of golf. So, it’s no surprise that this is a popular activity within the military community. Military golf courses can be found on dozens of installations, and having the right golf equipment is important if you’re going to step foot on a golf course. Many joining the U.S. military may have experience playing, and for others, this could be yet another new aspect of this exciting new chapter. Either way, we’ve got you covered with must-have golfing equipment for everyone.

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What Golfing Equipment Is Needed for Golf on a Military Base?

There are a lot of different things out there that fall under the umbrella of golf equipment. Not all of it is necessary, but some are absolutely essential. Military golf courses are a great way to build rapport, blow off some steam, or engage in friendly competition. Below, we’re breaking down the five most essential pieces of golf equipment for anyone taking up the sport:

1. Golf Clubs

Some things are more important than others, but having clubs is the most essential thing you’ll need when playing golf. You’re going to want to make sure that you have clubs that fit your body, feel good when you swing, and have enough diversity to hit any shot you may come across. To get started, this means at least a driver, putter, pitching wedge, sand wedge, three wood, and the three, five, seven, and nine irons. Here are some great options that will have you hitting the links in no time:

• WILSON Men's Complete Golf Club Package Sets - Ultra, Ultra Plus, Deep Red Tour
• Nitro X Factor 13 Piece Golf Set All Graphite Men's, Left Handed, Gold/Silver
• WILSON Women's Profile SGI Complete Golf Package Set
• Nitro X Factor 13 Piece Golf Set All Graphite Ladies, Left Handed, Teal/Silver

2. Golf Balls

Sure, you can just pick up any ole' golf ball at the pro shop, but finding the right one for you can help you improve your score and let you hit with more confidence. Plus, let’s face it, you can never have too many:

• Titleist Velocity Golf Balls
• Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls 12B PK
• TaylorMade Distance+ Golf Balls
• Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls (One Dozen)

3. Golf Bag

Your golf bag is an expression of who you are and is essential for lugging around the rest of your golf equipment. From sleek and stylish to military golf bags, there are plenty of great options out there:

• Nike Air Sport 2
• Nike Sport Lite
• Sun Mountain Men's C130 14-Way Divided Golf Cart Bag
• TaylorMade Golf Ladies Select ST Stand Bag

4. Golf Gloves

When you’re swinging all day long, the last thing you want to do is to leave hand protection out of the equation. You’re going to thank us when you're back running drills after playing a full 18 holes. Golf gloves are a must; here are some of the best options:

• Nike Tour Classic 4 (men's left hand)
• Callaway Golf Men's Weather Spann Premium Synthetic Golf Glove
• Nike Tour Classic 4 (women’s right hand)
• FINGER TEN Women's Ladies Golf Rain Gloves

5. Golf Shoes

In every sport, some equipment is more optional than others. You may feel fine hitting the driving range or around the clubhouse in your footwear of choice, but if you’re going to be out on the golf course, you going to need proper footwear. The right golf shoes are going to provide you with support, stability, and comfort throughout each hole. That way you can hit seamlessly and spend more time focusing on your swing rather than your feet:

• Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour NEXT%
• Jordan ADG 4
• Air Jordan 1 Low G
• Nike React Ace Tour

Optional Golf Gear

Now that we have the essentials of golfing equipment out of the way, it’s time to take a look at some of the more optional equipment you may want to consider. Most of these items can be found at a pro shop or involve special situations, so if you’re new to the game, don’t feel as if you must grab them your first time out:

• Golf towels and cleaning equipment
• Rangefinders
• A hat or visor
• Headcovers for your clubs
• Tees (many courses will just give you these for free)
• Golf GPS devices
• Rain gear
• Books and instructional guides

Where To Buy Golf Equipment

The links throughout this article can help you purchase new, high-quality golf equipment, fulfilling a wide range of needs. If these items don’t specifically fulfill your needs, you can also shop around within the shops on the course. You may also be able to find a golf military discount at select retailers. It’s important to beware of shoddy, used equipment, especially when you’re getting started. Always be sure to test what you can and search for signs of wear and tear if purchasing secondhand golfing equipment.

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