Budget Golf Gear That Outperforms The Expensive Stuff
Hey, fellow golfers! So, let’s face it: we all love hitting the links, but let’s not pretend that golf gear doesn’t come at a premium. Sometimes, it feels like spending more translates directly to better performance, but it isn’t always the case. I dove into the world of affordable golf equipment this year and found some absolute gems that can stand toe-to-toe with those pricey brands. Here’s the lowdown on budget-friendly gear that gives you serious bang for your buck.
Kirkland Performance+ Golf Balls
First up are the Kirkland Performance+ Golf Balls. You might remember the original Kirkland balls from 2016 that had everyone buzzing, trying to take on the Pro V1 at a fraction of the cost. The new version, Kirkland Performance+ (Version 3.5), has seriously upped its game. We noticed a little more distance off the driver and a tighter dispersion than the Pro V1. Plus, the spin and feel around the greens? They’re super playable for most golfers.
Who It’s For:
If you’re looking for solid distance and spin without the $55-per-dozen price tag, these are your go-to balls.
Who It’s Not For:
If you’re one of those players who needs elite-level consistency or prefers a softer feel, you might want to keep looking.
Wilson DYNAPWR Max Irons
Next on our list are the Wilson DYNAPWR Max Irons. During the 2025 Super Game-Improvement Iron test, these babies claimed the crown as the best overall performer. They didn’t dominate any single category, but they scored high marks in distance, forgiveness, and accuracy. Seriously, if you want to take the guesswork out of iron play, these are hard to beat.
Price Point:
At $899, they offer fantastic value, especially considering you can find others at a lower price that don’t perform nearly as well.
Who It’s For:
Mid to high handicappers looking for consistency across every shot should definitely give these a shot.
Who It’s Not For:
If you’re stuck on outdated brand perceptions and have written off Wilson, you might want to reconsider.
Tommy Armour 845+ Irons
Let’s chat about the Tommy Armour 845+ Irons. Exclusive to DICK’S Sporting Goods, these irons snagged the second spot overall in the MyGolfSpy 2025 test. They excelled in accuracy and forgiveness, although they might not be the longest on the market. But hey, who needs to hit the ball hardest when you can hit it straight?
Price Point:
Coming in at just $499, these are a serious steal.
Who It’s For:
If you value accuracy and forgiveness, these are the irons you’ve been looking for.
Who It’s Not For:
If you’re chasing every extra yard with your clubs, you might be disappointed.
Wilson Infinite Buckingham Putter
Now, can we take a moment to appreciate the Wilson Infinite Buckingham Putter? At only $129.99, it outperformed fancy mallets from brands like Scotty Cameron and TaylorMade in our 2025 testing. It’s fantastic on short and medium putts, which are crucial for lowering your score. The only downside? Some folks mentioned it’s not the prettiest putter in the bag.
Who It’s For:
This is perfect for golfers who want consistency in their putting, especially when it’s crunch time inside 10 feet.
Who It’s Not For:
If you’re the type who leans more towards brand names and aesthetics, this might not be your cup of tea.
Skechers Spikeless Golf Shoes
Let’s shift gears to footwear: the Skechers Spikeless Golf Shoes. The GO GOLF Flight snagged the title of best value spikeless shoe in 2025, while the Elite 6 was tops in comfort. Both options are waterproof, friendly for walking, and under $130! If you’re on the fence about investing in new shoes, look no further.
Who It’s For:
Perfect for walkers who want soft, cushioned shoes that won’t break the bank.
Who It’s Not For:
If you’re after max traction or a tour-style feel in wet conditions, you may want to look elsewhere.
Toura SCB-1 Irons
You might not have heard of Toura, but their SCB-1 Irons made a name for themselves in the 2025 Player’s Iron Testing. Ranking second in both accuracy and forgiveness, they’re a solid choice for mid to short irons. However, if you’re looking for sheer distance, you might want to look at other options.
Who It’s For:
Players who prioritize precision over distance will love these irons.
Who It’s Not For:
If you can’t afford to sacrifice yardage, these may not be your best bet.
GoGoGo Sport GS91BL Rangefinder
Next, let’s talk about the GoGoGo Sport GS91BL Rangefinder. If you want fast, accurate yardages with slope and vibration feedback, this little gadget is a gem. It was crowned our best value rangefinder of 2025, all while costing under $150! Sure, it may not have premium materials or a high-end range, but it nails the basics for most golfers.
Who It’s For:
Great for golfers wanting an affordable rangefinder that packs in reliable features.
Who It’s Not For:
If you’re loyal to rechargeable models or seek high-end optics, this one might not meet your high standards.
Maxfli Honors Golf Bag
Last but not least, let’s check out the Maxfli Honors Golf Bag. This bag proves that you can get a well-designed, walkable golf bag without maxing out your credit card. While it may not win any beauty contests, it shines in organization, full-length dividers, and decent storage.
Who It’s For:
Perfect for new golfers, budget shoppers, or anyone needing a solid spare bag.
Who It’s Not For:
If you’re in the market for high-end styling or ultra-lightweight options, you might be left wanting.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, golfing gear can get pretty pricey. But choosing wisely and picking up some fantastic value options can take a load off your wallet. So why not save some cash for extra rounds or maybe even a lesson? Happy golfing, and remember: great performance doesn’t have to come with an outrageous price!
There you have it! Gear that performs well without taking a massive bite out of your wallet. Time to hit the course with confidence.
