For years debates have raged on about whether to use generic or brand name equipment in golf. Multi-billion dollar corporations spend millions of dollars each day to say that only their name - and only their name - should go on a product, and therefore you must use it.

Question: how much more value do you get from a brand name than from something generic? This issue is not at all new to golf (or any sporting industry) and it will probably won’t end with this short article. Here’s the takeaway, if you’re just starting to learn how to play the game, generic equipment should be more than enough for your needs.

So, before you hurry over to plunk down thousands of dollars in gear and golf paraphernalia (golf can be an expensive hobby…if you let it), develop and target specific muscle groups first. This takes time and it’s a gradual process if you’re able to build up to it (your body will know which groups to target after the very first time you play a full round of golf).

Then after you feel fairly confident driving the ball, chipping shots, and putting (not pro-level but confident), custom fit a couple get some clubs to you and your abilities. The difference between pros and amateurs is that the pros are constantly looking for every possible edge and advantage they can get on the game. That’s why they get paid a lot of money to hit a ball far on a golf course. They get paid to be the best and to know the right equipment to use. If they don’t, they’d never earn their spot on the tour.

So, when new technologies come out, the professionals are the first to test them and recommend (or reject) them accordingly. Be careful to note which pros are marketing the product versus just reviewing it. The difference is sometimes blurred in this information-frenzy world we live in. Does the pro actually use what he recommends? That’s a great indicator of whether or not you should use it. You might pay dearly for that quality, but it is available.

When you’re first beginning, the clubs you picked up at the thrift store or garage sale, if they are in sufficient working condition, should suffice for you now. And again, until you decide that The Game is for you, generic should be more than sufficient. Wait until you get “the bug.”

Have your golfing instructor (you do have a pro instructor, don’t you?) recommend when you are ready to buy more quality equipment. He knows your skill level and the products on the market. He will also know what will and won’t make more of a difference in your distance and in your game. Those guys are the pros; that’s why they get the top dollars for teaching you and me. They know the ins and outs of the game and what skill level you are in your program.

Long story short, ask a third party, someone outside of your friend and family network, to see what you need in terms of equipment. Treat yourself, though, and buy that snazzy, Greg Norman golf shirt!