Why Is Golf So Expensive

Having been a golfer for over 30 years I have often been asked about the expense of playing golf. Most people who ask "Why is golf so expensive?" are usually non-golfers who don't understand why we spend so much on golf.

Very often it is a spouse. Ouch! It's hard to argue with a wife who wants new curtains when you are going on a golfing weekend with the boys. But hear me out before you burn me at the stake.

In this article I hope to persuade you that golf is not expensive and in so doing I hope to encourage you to play the game - it will be a life changing experience if I succeed.

You have been warned!

Let me start off by saying that golf is not cheap. But I do not think it is expensive either and I will go through the costs shortly.

I have golfed twice a week for about 30 odd years now and my golf has not cost me a cent.

That is not strictly true because it does money to play but I measure this against the benefits I receive out of playing the game. I have always been in a job that requires networking and golf has been wonderful for networking and making business contacts.

I have met people on the golf course that have become good friends and valued customers. The money I have earned from these people either directly or indirectly far exceeds the layout I have made in playing the game. I am sure that anybody who has ever played the game for any length of time has had similar experiences to me.

For example I have often used the services of a plumber, electrician, bank manager, car salesman, realtor and others that I have met while playing golf. These same people in turn have referred business my way.

Ask any golfer and they will confirm this.

OK enough of trying to validate my golf expenses - I don't really need to because I will continue playing regardless!

Let's look at why golf is so expensive.

1. Golf Clubs. You need them to play and there is no avoiding it you are going to have to get some. If you are worried about it get hold of a second hand set of clubs. I have heard of some incredible bargains for very little money. Shop around.
2. Golf Shoes. This is an important item and you shouldn't cut corners. You will be on your feet for up to 6 hours (although 4 is more the norm) and don't want to come off with sore feet. Buy the best you can afford.
3. Golf balls, tees, gloves etc. These are all essentials but again they need not be expensive to start off with.
4. Golf Fees. If you are going to play regularly the most cost-effective way is to join a club. This does entail a joining fee and an annual subscription. But as a member the more you play the cheaper (per round) golf becomes. The alternative is to pay what is known as Green Fees each time you play. This can vary from as little as $15.00 to as much as $500.00 depending on the course you are playing. Think about it - where can you get 4 hours of entertainment for $15.00?
5. The 19th Hole. By far the most expensive and fun part of golf is the socializing afterwards. Yes it costs money but if you do not partake then (in my very humble opinion) you are not making the most of your golf.
6. Golf Lessons. I would recommend that you have at least one lesson and spend some time working on your game and learning the basics of a good golf swing, the art of putting and how to master the short game. Golfers are a competitive lot and the game tends to make you compete - even if it is just against yourself.

That's it folks - your total expenses and why golf is so expensive.

The trouble is that is only the beginning! Now you are hooked you will want new clubs, the best bag, only Titleist balls, golfing weekends and holidays. You may even get your spouse hooked on the game and then the expenses are doubled. The good news is you get to save on curtains as you invest in golf lessons for her too.

Seriously though golf is not cheap but it is a way of life, a way of making new friends and a way of getting a great balance in your life. Give it a go - you won't be sorry.