Our family has bought through eBay, OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace. I start with research and ask our local club fitter when I am unsure. A bargain only helps if the equipment works for the child.
What I would consider used
| Item | What to check | When to walk away |
|---|---|---|
| Clubs and putters | Actual length, handedness, shaft, grip, modifications and a fitter’s assessment. | Loose heads, uncertain specifications, damage or answers that do not match the photos. |
| Stand bags | Weight, straps, zippers, stand mechanism and fit while carried. | Broken supports, failing straps or a bag that overwhelms a small player. |
| Clothing | Comfort, condition, fit and the facility’s dress requirements. | A purchase made just for a logo or an outfit the child cannot move comfortably in. |
| Golf balls | Condition, quantity, whether models are mixed, and the seller’s grading definition. | Cracks, cuts, unclear condition or a listing that hides what is actually included. |
What may make sense to buy new
Consumables and heavily worn items deserve a careful comparison. A fresh grip may be useful, but ask the fitter what the work costs before buying the club. Shoes and gloves need to fit comfortably; neither is an automatic first-lesson requirement. Ask the program first.
Write down the full number
Purchase price + shipping + tax + any fitting, regripping or repair. Compare that total with a suitable ready-to-play alternative. Do not count a hoped-for resale price as money already saved.
Compare two equipment options →
Size is more than age
U.S. Kids Golf’s fitting resource starts with player height measured with shoes on and distinguishes equipment systems by development level. Use manufacturer guidance as a starting point, then ask a qualified fitter about the actual child and clubs.
Before you message a seller
Know the model and specifications you want. Ask for current photos, actual measurements and modification history. Read the platform’s protection and return terms. For a local purchase, inspect in a suitable public place before paying.