The Best Golf Tees

Buying Guide

Avid golfers always have a well-stocked collection of tees. Whether you’re starting out or you’ve been playing a while, though, it’s important to know what makes a good golf tee. It may seem like a small thing, but the design of a tee can have an impact on your game.

The first thing to look at is whether there are regulations at the locations you’ll be playing. The United States Golf Association requires that tees be 4 inches in length or shorter and neither help nor hinder the player’s play. But there may be regulations specific to the golf courses you’re frequenting, so it’s important to check.

Tees may look alike, but there are some notable differences that can influence your game. Standard golf tees can produce more friction, but the three-pronged tees that have come along can take away some of the balance you need, especially as a beginner. For this reason, a four- or five-pronged tee might be a better option until you’ve honed your skills. This will help with the friction issue while still giving you the balance you need until you’ve become a more advanced player.

For standard tees, a wider top will be better as you’re starting out. The larger surface area helps with balance and aim. As you advance in your game, you’ll find that you get more distance with a tee with a narrower top. At that point, your skills will progress to the point where you can compensate for the reduced balance and aim of smaller tees.

Then comes the big question. Which are better, plastic or wood tees? You’ll find wood tees are typically cheaper than plastic, but they can break and splinter easily, which means you may get less life out of them. This is especially important if you play on tough turf where you’ll have to force the tee into the ground. Plastic tees are more durable, so you’ll be able to reuse them, but you’ll pay a little more. You can also buy plastic tees in bright colors that won’t blend into the terrain, making them easier to spot.

• Tee placement plays a crucial role in your game. A higher tee makes it easier to hit the top of the clubface, which pushes the ball higher and reduces spin to help you cover a larger distance. For shorter distances where you need more control, a lower tee may be a better choice. But wind conditions can play a role, as well. Experiment with various tee placements as you perfect your game to find the best position for your own stroke.
• There are other accessories to consider as you’re buying supplies for your game. A golf tee and ball setter will save your back, allowing you to place the tee and ball without bending over or squatting. A golf tee dispenser also comes in handy. You can clip all those tees to your golf club bag and have them nearby as you play, reducing clutter and keeping things together.
• To lengthen the life of a wooden tee, push it into the ground several times to loosen the dirt before setting the ball on it. This will help reduce the risk of the tee splintering when you hit the ball.
• Golf tees are sold in varying sets. Keep in mind how often you’ll play when buying. A smaller set may be fine if you choose tees that are durable, but tees can easily get lost, especially if your club accidentally comes into contact with one and pitches it across the green. Having plenty of spares will ensure you’re well prepared for every game.
• Brightly colored tees offer the benefit of being easy to spot. Neutral colors can tend to blend with the landscape, forcing you to waste precious time trying to track them down, especially if you accidentally dislodge one while you’re hitting.