Handicaps help level the field in golf. Their inclusion in rounds means that, in theory, two golfers of different abilities can compete with one another fairly. But, if you’re a beginner, you may have wondered what the handicap for an average golfer actually is.

In short, it’s a little more complicated than there being just one average handicap. Lots of variables contribute to your handicap, from age and gender to location.

Here, you’ll find the standard ranges for those demographics to see just how close to the average you are.

What is a handicap?

Before delving into what the handicap for an average golfer is, it’s important to fully understand what we actually mean by a handicap and what it’s used for.

A handicap is a means by which golfers can establish their overall skill level, contextualise their scores and compete on a level playing field with players of differing abilities. It’s a number between zero and 54, which is combined with the gross score over the course of a round to create a final, net score. In theory, the lower your handicap, the better the golfer you are.

For many years, countries operated under their own systems for calculating a handicap. But in 2020, the World Handicap System was introduced to standardise handicaps worldwide, assigning golfers a Handicap Index. 

This Handicap Index is based on a golfer’s last 20 rounds and the average of the best eight scores from them. This is then combined with the difficulty of the course to determine how many shots a player receives over the course of a round.

So, for example, if a player with a handicap of 15 played against a player with a handicap of 10, they’d receive a shot on the five hardest holes. This allows them to compete more closely with a player who is – in theory – more skilled.

The handicap for an average golfer

As previously mentioned, handicaps range from 0 to 54. A player with a handicap of zero is known as a scratch golfer. They would be expected to complete a round to par or better than par.

Players with a handicap of zero or 54 are both rare. Scratch golfers are extremely skilled, and players with a Handicap Index of 54 make up a tiny portion of golfers globally.

England Golf reports that the overall average Handicap Index in the country is 19.37.

Average handicap for different genders

The R&A reports that the average Handicap Index for a male golfer is between 14 and 17, while for a woman it is between 27 and 29.

Specifically, according to England Golf in April 2025, the averages stand at 18.60 for men, 29.33 for women, and 19.37 overall.

This does differ slightly in the USA, 2025’s average Handicap Indexes were 14 for men and 28.8 for women, according to Golf.com.

There are various theories as to why the average handicap for men is lower than that of women. Rather than it simply being down to ability, it’s likely that participation rates, particularly in competitive participation, underpin the disparity.

While the number of women playing golf is rising in England and around the world, it still pales in comparison to that of men. According to England Golf, there were 1.46 million female golfers across the country as of September 2025, with The R&A reporting that there are over 36 million female players globally – but among the 108 million players worldwide, it’s still a small proportion.

Average handicap for different ages

Age also plays a key role in the distribution of handicaps. A Handicap Index between 16 and 20 is expected of men over 60, while women sit around the 30 region, according to England Golf.

It’s important to factor in that the average golf club member is reported to be 53.78 years old for men, but the average goes above 60 for women.

Average handicap for different abilities

One of the best things about handicaps is that they’re a great way of establishing your overall golfing ability.

England Golf suggests that the average Handicap Index for beginners is above 28, meaning you’d be expected to complete a course at least 28 strokes over par. So, if you’ve just started out and discover that your Handicap Index is much higher than you’d hoped it might be, don’t worry. This is normal.

Once you start improving, you can expect your handicap to drop below 27. And once you’re more experienced, an average of 14-19 is normal for men.

Between 14 and 28 are the levels at which most players’ Handicap Indexes will remain for the majority of their golfing years – and that’s okay! You’ll likely find that the casual golfer isn’t completing most holes to par. Bogeys are normal, as are double bogeys.

If you want to improve further, a handicap between 10 and 13 is really good, and between one and nine is absolutely excellent. Then there’s zero and below – the score of scratch golfers expected to complete a course either to par or under par.

Making it to the level of a scratch golfer is incredibly rare. The United States Golf Association reports that less than 1% of its players are scratch golfers. If you’re one of the rare few who make it to that hugely high level, don’t expect any favours on the course!

Key things to remember

The key point to remember is that the average Handicap index is closely linked to specific factors. It’s different for men and women, Brits and Americans, and players of different ages.

It’s also worth remembering that the majority of golfers are not at the extreme ends of the spectrum. You may have a Handicap Index of 54 at first, but it likely won’t stay this way for long. Similarly, you likely won’t encounter too many players with Handicap Indexes close to zero.

Most golfers will stay within 14 and 28, and that’s absolutely normal. Wherever your Handicap Index sits, it’s a great means by which you can keep track of your progress and compete with opponents of every level.

And if you’re playing with a high handicap, here are a few tips for choosing the best irons.

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Before you start working on lowering your handicap, you may want to consider protecting yourself and your golf equipment with specialist golf insurance. Get a quote online today.

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Wilson Golf has advanced its award-winning Staff Model golf ball franchise with the introduction of two new tour-calibre performance offerings – the Staff Model and Staff Model X.

Building on the global acclaim earned over the past two years for exceptional all-around performance, the latest four-piece urethane constructions deliver enhanced speed, control, durability and feel for elite players.

Both models are also available in the popular TRK360 alignment-focused design, providing golfers with improved visual feedback and precision on the greens.

“The new Staff Model and Staff Model X golf balls are engineered with distinct performance attributes to meet the needs of different elite players,” said Frank Simonutti, Global Director of Golf Ball Innovation.

“We wanted to build on the momentum we’ve had over the last few years, which is our premium balls stack up to anything else on the market and it’s good to see so many golfers are putting them in play,” he added.

The balls are engineered using advanced V-COR performance technology which utilises a unique core composition to magnify energy and generate maximum velocity off the club face for the fastest ball speeds on the market, according to internal testing*.

Staff Model

The Staff Model ball features a compression of 90, which is 10 points softer that the Staff Model X. This ball is designed for the elite golfer who wants the performance of a Tour caliber golf ball but prefers a lower spin rate than a harder urethane ball.

The 2026 Staff Model iteration produces ball velocity, distance, and a lower spin rate (~ 3.5% to 4%) than “harder” premium urethane balls on both driver and irons. The ball utilises a soft-compression rubber core, a softer inner mantle layer to control driver spin, a hard ionomer outer mantle layer for velocity and distance, and a thin, soft cast urethane cover layer for exceptional spin on approach shots.

The dimple pattern of the Staff Model ball comprises 362 dimples arranged in a modified hexahedral pattern. The dimple pattern is designed to produce the optimum flight trajectory to maximise distance performance.

Staff Model X

The new Staff Model X remains the World’s Fastest Urethane golf ball but now offers a softer feel and sound to address feedback from Wilson Tour professionals.

This was achieved with a construction comprising a small, mid-compression core, a soft fatty-acid modified terpolymer inner mantle layer, an extra-stiff ionomer outer cover layer, and an ultra-thin cast urethane cover.

The softer compression core, compared to the previous Staff Model X, reduces driver spin rate, the soft inner mantle layer provides a combination of velocity and feel/sound, the stiff outer mantle layer provides ball velocity, and a thin, soft cast urethane cover combines with the outer mantle layer to provide exceptional spin on approach shots.

The dimple pattern of the Staff Model X is a 362 hexagonal seamless dimple pattern designed to produce the optimum flight trajectory to maximise distance performance.

For added shelf appeal to global golfers, both Staff Model balls incorporate new eye-catching premium packaging to match its on-course performance.

The Staff Model is now available in a standout Graphite Box design alongside the Staff Model X in its Champagne Bronze colourway.

TRK360

Both the Staff Model X and Staff Model balls are also available with the popular TRK360 design.

The 360-degree visual alignment lines are offered in a muted black and silver stripe to help golfers aim more accurately at their target but not become a loud, visual distraction.

The side seam stamp doubles as a training aid during putting practice, with a smooth, end-over-end roll indicating a well-struck putt, while any wobble reveals an off-centre strike.

For more information on the new Staff Model ball range and all Wilson Golf products, including woods, irons, wedges, putters, balls and accessories, visit www.wilson.com

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A golf tee might seem like a minor detail in your game, until you use the wrong one. The truth is, the right tee can affect everything from your confidence on the first shot to the trajectory and distance of your drives.

For some golfers, it’s more than just equipment; it’s a ritual that sets the tone for the round.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 7 best golf tees for players of all skill levels, breaking down how different designs, materials, and features can impact your performance. Whether you’re chasing extra yards, better durability, or just a consistent setup, these tees are designed to elevate your game right from the first shot.

For golfers that just need a quick recommendation, here are our top choices:

Main Differences Between Golf Tees

Golf tees have some differences in how they are produced that will, in turn, lead to how they play on the golf course. The three biggest differences between golf tees are the materials, the length, and the style.

It’s important to remember that there is no perfect golf tee; there are, however, players that have very specific preferences as to which tee is going to be the best fit for their game.

Materials

The main materials that golf tees are made up of include plastic, wood, and bamboo. Wood tees are the most common and have been around for quite some time.

Wood tees are biodegradable and will not do much damage to the environment when the lawn mower hits them the following day. This is especially the case when they are the natural color and not painted.

Golf tees can also be plastic. The plastic golf tees are typically not as good for the environment or the golf course, but they hold up for a long time.

The plastic tees are a good fit for golfers that break tees.

Bamboo tees are becoming increasingly popular as they are great from a durability standpoint and will deteriorate and break down over time. With a bamboo golf tee, expect a slightly higher price, as the cost to the manufacturer tends to be a little higher than the wood golf tees.

Some golf courses are starting to limit the types of tees players are allowed to use. Keep this in mind if you are playing somewhere and they do not allow plastic tees.

Length

For many years golf tees all were about the same length. However, over time the 460cc drivers were released, and players realized that they needed something considerably longer to be able to make contact with the center of the driver’s head.

Some players choose an oversized tee, over 3 inches, and just push it down into the ground when they are on a par 3 or not using the driver off the tee.

Other players struggle with getting these longer tees down into the ground and would prefer to have both long and short golf tees. This is a personal preference.

I’ve always just purchased a one-length golf tee and used it for all the holes, and it’s never been an issue.

Style

Through the years, the types of golf tees have also expanded from a style standpoint. As you probably very well know, golfers will purchase anything that they think may help their game. Therefore companies have come up with a few different models.

• Traditional: A regular tee with an indentation at the top where the ball can sit
• Martini: Looks as though they have a cup at the top (or martini glass); the ball rests in the tee with very little friction.
• Step Tees: A tee that will only allow you to push it into the ground so far; this helps to ensure the proper height on all shots.
• Brush: Instead of having the ball sit on a tee, it rests at the top of a brush and helps to improve overall distance.
• Anti Slice: Tees that help players visualize and strike the proper location of the ball to promote better spin and the proper flight.

The Top 7 Golf Tees You Should Consider Buying

Now that you have a better idea of the differences in these golf tees let’s look at the ones you should consider buying. Keep these styles, lengths, and preferences in mind as you choose something that will work best for your needs.

Pride Professional Tee Systems (Best Wooden Tees)

Pros

• Made with natural hardwood
• Color bar to help indicate tee length
• Good for larger drivers over 400cc
• Tour-proven model

Cons

• A bit more money than some other options on the market

The Pride Professional Tee Systems are the best wooden tees on the market. In fact, they also make some pretty great plastic tees as well. These golf tees are used as the number one tee on the PGA Tour, and it’s easy to see why.

One of the first things that stands out about the Pride Professional Tee System is the thickness of the tee. The tees come in various lengths, but the overall width or thickness of the tee is very thin.

This thin feeling allows players to swing through without losing even the slightest bit of speed. These tees are 100% natural hardwood and are built for golf clubs of all sizes and types.

Each tee features a color bar that helps players determine the exact tee height that they are looking for.

Green Keepers 4 Yards More Golf Tee (Best Plastic Tees)

Pros

• Impressive testing was done with this tee
• Less resistance on drives
• Built to last more than 100 hits
• Reduced ball spin
• Great for seniors

Cons

Although we mentioned that the Pride Professional Tee Systems have some great plastic tees, there are other companies that compete with them quite well. These Green Keepers 4 Yards More tees are obviously all about distance. Players seeking more distance will be impressed with some of the studies on these Green Keepers tees.

One of the features that help the Green Keepers tees stand out is the flexible 6 prong tip. With these small and flexible prongs, the tee has very little grab on the ball, making it easier to get your full distance.

The tees are also built to last for over 100 drivers. This may not be a large package of tees, but expect to get plenty of use out of it.

Thiodoon Golf Tees (Best Value)

Pros

• A great option when looking for shorter tees
• Fair pricing
• 100% Natural Hardwood

Cons

• Break rather easily
• Don’t come in heights quite as tall as other brands

The Thiodoon Golf tees are the best option if you are looking for value. Even with these golf tees being some of the most affordable on the market, they are also made with 100% n natural hardwood and are non-toxic.

With Thiodoon Tees are said to be low resistance and have a lower friction tip, but they are mostly like standard golf tees that offer very little friction, to begin with. You can buy this product with a mix of colors and heights to find something you like.

Golfers have been finding that this Thiodoon brand offers variety across several different categories, not just golf tees.

Champ Zarma Golf Tees (Best Golf Tees for People Who Like to Experiment)

Pros

• Less surface area of the ball touching the tee
• Can customize the height of the tee easily
• Shallow cup on the top of the tee

Cons

• Not as well known or as widely used by professionals

If you are one of those golfers that like to experiment with different types of golf tees, then the Champ Zarma Golf Tees could be something to try. All of these different tee manufacturers have tried to come up with something unique that stands out as a great option for players.

With the Champ, Zarma Golf Tees expect a 6-prong head and a very shallow cup. The idea is almost to have the ball balance on the top of the tee instead of sitting in it, as we see with other golf tees on the market.

The ability to set the height of your golf ball to the same position every time is a great reason that the Champ Zarma Golf Tees work for the mid to high handicappers trying to bring about some consistency in their game.

If you are smart about this process, a few extra yards and a bit of consistency is a nice benefit of a new tee.

Zero Friction ZFT Maxx 3-Prong 4″ Distance Golf Tee (Best Premium)

Pros

• Won’t break as easily as other tees
• Lower the chance of golf drives that are not getting the proper launch
• Some golfers notice an increase in total distance

Cons

• Premium tees like this cost quite a bit of money; make sure to find them after you hit!

The Zero Friction ZFT Maxx 3 Prong is the best premium golf tee on the market. This tee will add up to 5 yards of distance to your drives according to Zero Friction. When we tested and played with these tees in the past, we also noticed an increase in total distance.

The 4” height on the tee is great for golfers that have a large 460cc golf driver. In addition, you will get a tee that is biodegradable and made with recycled materials. Certainly, something you can feel better about using on the golf course.

This is just a 3 prong design, but the ball balances on the top of the tee quite easily, making it a smart option for many players.

Callaway Par-Tee (Best For Durability)

Pros

• Very easy to push into the ground
• Durable design
• Has several colors and is a low-spinning golf tee design

Cons

• Only comes in a pack of four
• Not environmentally friendly

If you are tired of snapping tees, the Callaway Par-Tee could be a good option to consider. This low-spin tee is made with a durable co-molded material that will not easily break. The rubberized top and plastic base does a great job of ensuring you will have this in play round after round.

We noticed when we used the tee that the bright color and design made it easy to find after each swing. In addition, the 3 ¼ inch height seems to be plenty for getting distance with a 460cc driver.

If you trust Callaway with the rest of your game, the Callaway Par-Tee is a great option.

Consistent Tee Durable Plastic (Best For Consistent Tee Height)

Pros

• Easily see how high to tee the ball
• USGA compliant
• Longer, straighter, and more consistent drives

Cons

• Not as lightweight as some other golf tees on the list

If you worry about finding the proper tee height, the Consistent Tee Durable Plastic is a good option to consider. This is made for the largest drivers on the market and will ensure you tee the ball properly each time.

This tee helps eliminate those sky marks on the top of your club and keeps you from losing distance. The Consistent Tee is USGA compliant, and it comes with a pack of 10 tees that are quite durable and long-lasting.

How to Choose The Right Features For You

With all of the different tee options out there, many golfers are unsure how to choose the tee that will be the best fit for their game. Here are a few of the things that you will want to consider:

Skill Level

If you are a new player, it may be difficult to understand how high to tee the golf ball. This is where something like the step tee could come into play. Although it won’t always make or break your shot, there are times that keeping the ball teed at the right height will help you become a better player.

In addition, some lower handicap golfers are very particular about the tee that they use. Some will only want wood tees, with no paint, to ensure their equipment does not have any impact from the tee itself.

Budget

As with all other golf products, there are both cheap and expensive golf tees to choose from. Typically, a mid to short-size wood tee will be the most affordable. The most expensive tees are rubber plastic tees that will last round after round.

It is essential to keep your budget in mind as you may play a lot of rounds in a year, and if you spend money at the beginning and use those tees for the entire year, it could be well worth it.

Ball Flight

The tee that you use can impact your ball flight. For instance, if you are a player that tends to hit the ball really low, it could be because you are not teeing it high enough on the face.

Of course, there are other reasons behind ball flight issues in golf, but this is something that should at least be kept in mind as you play and practice.

Angle of Attack

How do you approach the ball?

We know that with a driver (the most likely club to be teed up), the angle of attack is supposed to be more upright, and the ball is hit on the upswing. However, this isn’t the case for all players.

The chance of breaking the tee is quite high for players that tend to have a slightly steeper angle of attack that may clip their drive on the downswing.

These players may take into consideration their angle of attack so that they do not continually have to purchase new golf tees. Plastic tees are typically a bit more durable and will not fall apart after a single swing.

Environmental Regulations/Consciousness

Some golf courses are forcing golfers to care about the environment and ensure that they are playing with equipment that will be biodegradable. However, not all golfers will need the golf course to help them become more environmentally conscious.

Many golfers care a great deal about the environment, and they want to ensure that they are using a golf tee that will deteriorate a bit more naturally and not cause harm. The best thing any golfer can do is try and find their golf tee after they take a shot.

Golf Tee FAQs

Now that you are ready to purchase some of the best golf tees on the market, here are a few last things to consider. Remember that some of this comes down to personal preference, and some will be more about performance.

Which Tees Do The Pros Use?

Many golf professionals use hardwood tees that have long tee lengths and less friction. These are often produced by Pride Professional or the Zero Friction Tour tees. The brush tees or martini-type tees are typically not used by professionals. In addition, it’s rare to see bright colors used by pros.

Which Tees Are Better – Plastic or Wood?

Both wooden tees and plastic golf tees can be good, but there are some problems with plastic tees and the environment. If you are concerned about durability and plan to use a tee over and over again, plastic is great. However, bamboo tees or wooden tees are better for those who want something biodegradable.

Can Some Tees Really Help You Hit Longer Drives and/or Slice Less?

Most tees will offer about the same distance for players. However, some offer a bit less friction, while others offer more stability. The difference is usually only a few yards, but for some players, this amount is very important and something well worth taking advantage of.

Brittany Olizarowicz

Britt O has been playing golf since the age of 7. Almost 30 years later, she still loves the game, has played competitively on every level, and spent a good portion of her life as a Class A PGA Professional. Britt currently resides in Savannah, GA, with her husband and two young children. Current Handicap: 1

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The most famous interaction between Jerry Pate and Pete Dye surely came in 1982, when Pate won what would become the Players Championship the first time it was played at Dye’s new Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Florida. Following his victory, Pate pushed Dye and PGA Tour commissioner Deane Beman into the water left of No. 18 green, an amusing scene with plenty of laughs that nevertheless highlighted the frustration felt by many players about the difficult new layout. 

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