Second-Hand Junior Clubs: A Buyer's Guide for Parents
What to check for and where to look when buying second-hand junior golf clubs, given how quickly kids outgrow equipment.
Junior golfers grow out of clubs quickly, which makes second-hand equipment one of the most sensible ways for families to keep costs down without compromising on a proper fit. A well-chosen used set can serve a child just as well as new clubs, provided a few basics are checked before buying.
Fit by height, not age
Junior clubs are generally sized to a child's height rather than their age, so don't assume a set marketed for a particular age bracket will actually suit your child. Most retailers and club fitters publish height-based sizing charts, and it's worth measuring your child and checking against these before buying anything second-hand, since sizing can vary between brands.
Check the grips and shafts
Grips wear out and can become slick or cracked over time, particularly on older sets — a cheap regrip is usually a worthwhile investment even on an otherwise good second-hand set. Take a look at the shafts too for any obvious dents, bends or rust, and give each club a firm once-over to check nothing wobbles loose at the joint between shaft and head.
Where to look
Local buy-swap-sell groups, club noticeboards, and pro shops that take trade-ins are all good starting points, and many junior golf families are keen to pass gear on once their own kids grow out of it. Some pro shops and coaching programs also keep a small pool of loaner or club-owned junior sets, which can be a good option for a child still deciding whether they want to stick with golf.
Don't over-invest too early
It's tempting to buy a well-known brand's junior set outright, but a child who's just starting out doesn't need premium equipment — a decent, well-fitted second-hand set will do the job just as well while they're working out whether golf is for them. Save the bigger investment for once a child is clearly committed and has stopped growing quite so fast.
How often will we need to replace clubs as our child grows?
It varies a lot by child, but many families find they need to size up every twelve to eighteen months during periods of rapid growth, and less often once growth slows. Checking the fit each season is a simple way to know when it's time.