The genuine article
GET THE GENUINE ARTICLE
One of the biggest issues with buying golf equipment online, particularly golf clubs, is counterfeit equipment originating primarily from China.
eBay is notorious for selling counterfeit equipment and is the place to exercise the most caution. I wrote an article at foundgolf.com about avoiding eBay scams, so I won't go into too much detail here.
Here are a few general tips:
o Buy only from large, well known online stores
o Use golf forums to ask for advice if you're concerned about the authenticity of something. GolfWRX.com has a forum section called 'deal or no deal' specifically for helping people figure out whether something is real or fake
o Don't just buy new equipment from eBay, there are plenty of alternatives online
o Reconsider buying used on eBay - there are also plenty of online stores selling used equipment, with warrantees and a returns policy
o Check out the manufacturer's website for information about counterfeit activity. Some provide tips on what to look for when buying their equipment online
GET THE RIGHT TERMS
While price is important, there are other factors to consider when buying golf equipment online.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Just because you're shopping online doesn't mean that you shouldn't expect good customer service. Look for online stores that have a number you can call and/or email you can use to ask questions, etc. All of the larger stores will have people you can talk to, and you should expect to speak to competent and knowledgeable staff.
RETURNS POLICY
Make sure that the online store you're buying from has a no questions asked returns policy. Online golf retailers are aware that many people aren't comfortable with buying golf equipment online, so offer a 'trial period' (eg 7 days) during which you can return the equipment and get your money back. This gives you a chance to take the gear to the driving range and try it out. Some online stores will offer money back only if the equipment is in original packaging. Look for the ones that allow you to try the gear and return it if you're not satisfied.
Remember that you'll have to wear the cost of shipping if you need to send the equipment back.
SHIPPING
Even if your golf clubs are heavily discounted at an online golf store, the cost of shipping may negate any savings. It seems obvious, but many people think they're getting a great deal until they get to the checkout and see the shipping costs. Look for special offers for discounted or free shipping and also consider buying from an online store that ships from your region.
BUYING USED GOLF CLUBS
Buying used golf clubs is not for everyone, the primary reasons being (1) that they were made for someone else, so aren't going to be suitable for them, (2) they're old technology, (3) there's no warrantee; and (4) there's no returns policy.
These are valid concerns if you're buying on eBay from your average seller, but there's no reason why you can't have the same piece of mind buying used as you would with new........with a little effort and some common sense. Here are some tips for buying used clubs online:
o Determine your measurements so that you can make sure you get clubs that fit you. Go to one of the websites mentioned above for an online fitting
o Find out from the seller what length the clubs are, type of shaft, grip size and lie angle. If they can't tell you, then don't buy from them......unless you're happy to take a punt on getting the right fit
o Buy from an online store that has a formal inspection and rating structure for their used clubs. For example, Callaway Pre-Owned has separate ratings for the grip, shaft, face, sole and top of the club
o Stay with the better known manufacturers. Lesser known names aren't necessarily worse clubs when used, but the craftsmanship that goes into, for example Ping, should carry over to used clubs as well
o Don't assume that you can't get a warranty or returns policy on used clubs. See Section 2 above for online stores that offer warranties and returns policies
o Consider paying a little more for piece of mind. You might get a better price on eBay, but consider the risks
o Keep in mind that woods with alloy heads are more susceptible to aging than metal woods as the alloy is softer
o Before you buy those used clubs, check how much they're selling for new. Occasionally, it's possible to pick-up a new set for less than used as online retailers may heavily discount older stock......worth a quick check.
If you can't, or don't want to, buy a new set of brand name clubs I reckon buying used from a recognized online store is the next best thing. You'll get similar terms to new clubs, and you can make sure that they're the right fit.