I’m a Frugal Golfer: Here are Five Things I’d Never Skimp On

A few weeks ago, I passed along some of my favorite money-saving tips. It was mostly well received. Who doesn’t love saving a few bucks, after all?

I’m about to undo all of the goodwill I earned with you. Why? Because now it’s time to talk about the golf gear you should never skimp on. Some gear is worth splurging on! Yes, I’m about to tell you how and where to spend your money … that ALWAYS goes over well.

Even if you don’t want to spend $400 on waterproof pants, there is still plenty of golf equipment that warrants a higher price tag.

Here are the five things I’d never skimp on as a golfer.

1. Golf Balls

I know what you’re thinking.

“Hold up, didn’t you just tell us not to waste money on full-price golf balls?”

Yes, I did. And I stand by that statement. What I really mean is this: stay away from refurbished golf balls. Oh, and those crappy two-piece matte golf balls Tony Covey loves so much.

Don’t think that saving a few bucks on a box of refurbished golf ball is going to save your game. In fact, our data tells us it’ll do the opposite.

Instead, wait for a good sale and drop some cash on good golf balls. Again, things like the Maxfli Tour line provide incredible value, even if they cost a little more than those crappy refurbs.

I promise that you’re good enough to play a decent ball. A bad ball is a bad ball whether you’re a Tour pro or a hack.

2. Rain Gear

Consider the following scenario.

You’ve been saving money for years to splurge on a bucket list buddies trip. Maybe you’re going to Bandon or maybe even St Andrews.

Shortly after teeing off, inclement weather starts to rain on your parade. You pull out your crusty, crappy rain jacket and pray that it doesn’t get soaked through. Spoiler: It does.

Instead of enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime trip with your buddies, you’re left dejected and sopping wet. The solution? Better rain gear.

Until you’ve worn something from KJUS or Galvin Green, you haven’t experienced proper golf rain gear. Think of it as insurance for your expensive trip. Trust me, the KJUS Pro 3L 3.0 jacket is worth splurging for.

3. Golf Shoes

Of course, the “golf shoe guy” is going to recommend you spend money on golf shoes. The amount of people I talk to that somehow pray they can get a decent pair of shoes for $50 is alarming. Unless you hit the jackpot at Ross, plan on spending at least $100 on a good pair of golf shoes.

Blisters, anyone? No takers? That’s what I thought. You deserve a well-constructed, comfortable pair of shoes. Anything less could prove harmful to your game (and your health). Seriously, a poorly made shoe could cause injury.

My current go-to shoes are the Under Armour Phantom G and the New Balance 550. If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, the adidas TOUR360 is one of my favorites. Those who want better value will love the Skechers Go Golf Blade GF.

4. Socks and Underwear

Stop skimping on socks and underwear. I know you’ve got holes in both.

A cushioned pair of socks and a comfortable, breathable pair of underwear go a long way to keeping you focused on the golf course. Sure, you might have to spend a little more cash but keeping your body happy and healthy is well worth the added expense.

I’m a big fan of lululemon for socks and underwear. The Always In Motion Boxer is as soft as it gets and the MacroPillow Cushioned Running Socks are sure to keep your feet from feeling fatigued.

5. Hats

I’ve sweated through and retired so many hats that I’ve lost count. If you add up all of the money I’ve spent on lackluster hats that don’t last more than a few months, I could have just bought a Melin.

Since I made the switch to Melin, I won’t ever go back. While the price may seem a little steep, there’s no hat more durable or better equipped to handle the rigors of golf than a Melin.

A Few More Money-Burning Hacks

If your driver is more than five years old, it’s time for an upgrade. Don’t be afraid to spend some extra cash to play that bucket-list course. The memories are worth it. Grooves worn out? It’s probably time to buy some new wedges.

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