The best first set of golf clubs to give someone is a small one. A 4-club starter set with a wood, an iron, a wedge and a putter is easier to learn with, easier to store and much easier on your budget than a big boxed set. If it comes with a way to trade up later, the person you're buying for isn't stuck with your guess about what they'll need.
Here's how to think through the gift, especially if you don't play golf yourself.
Why give a starter set instead of a full set?
A full set is a big commitment for someone who hasn't decided they love golf yet. It's also hard to get right as a gift. Full sets come in different flexes, lengths and club combinations, and the right choice depends on a swing you may have never seen.
A starter set sidesteps all of that. It gives someone exactly what they need to go to the range, play a par-3 course and find out if the game sticks. If it does, they can pick their own full set later with real information about their swing.
Why does a 4-club set beat a big boxed set for a gift?
Boxed beginner sets look generous under the tree, but most new golfers only use a few of those clubs. The rest ride around in a heavy bag. A 4-club set:
- Is easier to learn with. Fewer clubs means fewer decisions on every shot.
- Is easier to carry and store. It fits in a small bag that slides into a closet or a trunk.
- Costs a lot less. That leaves room in the budget for a range card or a round together.
- Covers every shot a beginner hits. We go through why in why beginners only need four clubs.
What's in the Just the Roots set?
Our Just the Roots (Starter) Set is $89.99 and includes:
- GolfRoots 5 wood
- GolfRoots 7 iron
- GolfRoots sand wedge
- GolfRoots Model No. 1 putter
- 5 golf balls
- Our custom Swing Satchel carry bag
The Just the Roots Set is the most affordable starter set in golf, and it arrives ready to take to the range.
Should you get the men's or women's set?
The set comes in Men's (RH) and Women's (RH), both $89.99 and both in regular flex. Pick the version that matches the person who'll be swinging the clubs. If you're unsure, think about height and build more than anything else, and feel free to call us at 214-302-7440 so we can help you choose.
Both versions are right-handed. If the person you're buying for plays left-handed, have a look at our guide on where to buy left-handed used golf clubs instead.
What if they love golf and outgrow it?
This is what makes the set a low-risk gift. When they're ready for a full set, they get 100% of the starter set's purchase price back in store credit toward any full set from GolfRoots. They keep playing with the starter set until the new clubs arrive, then send it back.
So the gift isn't just four clubs. It's the first $89.99 toward whatever set they end up wanting. And if golf turns out not to be their thing, you've spent less than you would on most boxed sets.
What can you add to make the gift feel complete?
A few small extras go a long way with a new golfer:
- A sleeve or box of balls, since five won't last long.
- A towel or headcover. Our golf gifts under $50 list has ideas from what we carry.
- A plan to go together. A trip to one of the best driving ranges in Dallas-Fort Worth or a par-3 course is often the best part of the gift.
If you're buying for a kid, our post on getting kids into golf without overspending covers what to think about.
Common questions
Is a starter set a good gift for someone who has never played?
Yes. It's probably the best gift for that person, because it gives them everything they need to try the game without a big commitment. Pair it with a range trip and they can hit their first shots the same week.
Can I see the set in person before buying?
Yes. Stop by our shop at 13260 Josey Ln, Suite 106 in Farmers Branch, Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. We have a simulator in the shop if you want to hit a few shots with the clubs yourself.
When should I order for the holidays?
Earlier is better. If you're cutting it close, give us a call at 214-302-7440 and we'll let you know what's possible.
