Most beginners should start with a 5-Wood or Driver (1-Wood) from 140 yards, then adjust for their own carry.
A calm starting point: 5-Wood for a typical beginner man, or Driver (1-Wood) for a typical beginner woman.
Open the 140-yard guideTypical club by player type
| Player | Starting club |
|---|---|
| Beginner man | 5-Wood |
| Beginner woman | Driver (1-Wood) |
| Junior | Driver (1-Wood) |
| Senior | 3-Hybrid |
Derived from the estimated beginner carry ranges in GolfReady’s clubs data, sourced there to Golf Digest and Shot Scope. Junior uses the lower-speed range as a proxy; senior uses the midpoint of the two beginner ranges. Your own carry wins.
When 140 yards plays longer
- Uphill: Take one more club for a noticeable climb.
- Headwind: Take one more club and keep the swing smooth.
- Cold: Expect less carry and favor the longer club.
Common mistake at 140 yards
At 140 yards, the common mistake is choosing the club from one perfect range shot instead of your comfortable carry. Pick the club for your normal carry, aim at the safe part of the green, and accept a comfortable next shot.
Common questions
What club should I hit from 140 yards?
Most beginners should start with a 5-Wood or Driver (1-Wood) from 140 yards, then adjust for their own carry.
Does a 140-yard shot play longer uphill?
Yes. Take one more club for a noticeable uphill shot and make your normal balanced swing.
See the full beginner club distance chart.