Does Equipment Matter?
Yes, a great deal in fact. Men, women and junors need golf clubs with very different characteristics. If you are just getting into the game there are a variety of "starter" sets availalble usually priced under $200.

Does Price Mean Anything?
Not necessarily. Certain equipment is made with metals that are more expensive to produce. Titanium clubheads are more expensive than steel becuase titanium is a more costly metal and is harder to manufacture. Graphite shafts are more expensive than steel becuase the production process is more complicated. Whatever the price, test the clubs out before your purchase.

What to Look for in Golf Clubs?
When shopping for clubs, you'll need to analyze many characteristics of each club.

Shaft
Unless you are extremely strong, the best shaft type for all women and juniors will be graphite. Graphite is much lighter than steel and enables the player to generate more clubhead speed than with a steel shaft, and this means more distance with each shot.
Flex
Flex is how much bend the shaft will make during the swing; the lighter the flex, the more bend you can expect. More flex usually means more distance at the expense of control. A club fitter or your golf professional an help you find your ideal flex.
Club Length
Clubs need to be the proper length if you are to hit the ball consistently and solidly in the center of the club face (sweet spot). Women shorter than 5'4" may consider a "petite" womens set. While taller women may require a standard women's-length club or possibly getting fitted for a man's-length club. If in doubt consult with your local PGA Teaching Professional or club fitter.

Junior sets are sold according to the childs age or height. Most beginner sets include a wood, three irons, putter and a bag. Shafts are usually made of graphite that are lighter than steel. This enables the player to generate more clubhead speed to get the ball in the air.

If you have an iron in your bag with a 2, 3 or 4 on it those clubs are obsolete. Consider replacing those clubs with a 2, 3, or 4 hy-bred club. Carry a 4 or 5 wood instead of a 3-wood. You'll hit more shots in the center of the clubface and accomplish three things 1. distance 2. accuracy 3. you'll enjoy the game more.

Where to Shop for Equipment?
I play with a set of clubs that are five years old. They work for me. I spend time practicing and not trying to keep up with technology. Every two years I may splurge and get fitted for a new driver from Cool Club's. I consider my driver the to be the most important club in my bag.

The Golf Mart at Mariners Point has a great selection of "starter" sets for beginners. Peninsula Golf located on 17th Avenue in San Mateo stocks equipment for all ability levels. You may find it helpful to shop at the Sports Authority or even Costco for a set of entry level clubs.