New irons are bound to propel your game into the stratosphere, right? As much as we'd like that to be the case, you won't enjoy the performance advantages you had hoped for with a set of golf clubs irons that just aren't quite right for your game. But if you consider the factors outlined below before making your next purchase, you stand an excellent chance of playing better golf and shooting lower scores.

●     Appearance or size

Believing, or confidence that you will hit a good shot, is probably one of the most important factors and usually one of the most ignored. If you are uncomfortable with a shot or even doubt that you will hit a good shot before you swing, chances are that will show in the results. That's where proper golf club irons can help out considerably. Looking down at a club, you should feel relaxed and confident that it will help get the job done. Conversely, when you look down at your club and you don't derive any confidence from it, you are probably in trouble.

Some see the slightly larger appearance of a game improvement club as a means of ensuring that errors will be overlooked. Another may look at the overall size of the club and feel as though it is too large. Those individual players may better fit that of a smaller, more "player's" version of the club. Be your design decision; it is important to use the club to feel and determine that you can hit the shot that presents itself.

●     Shaft

Though it is the head that touches the ball, the majority would say that it's the shaft that will play more of a determining role in the outcome of the shot. A player who's playing a proper shaft for him or herself will do much better than the one who is playing an improper shaft. This goes true for both graphite and iron shafts.

Although most golfers focus on flex when choosing a shaft, many other considerations must be made. The weight of the shaft has a great impact on the feel of the club and its performance. Generally, a heavier shaft produces a lower ball flight. A lighter shaft, on the other hand, tends to increase club head speed, which can result in greater distance.

●     Grip

The grip may seem the least important, and therefore the least significant, factor in buying a club. It is, however, the only point of contact between the player and the club. Comfort should be an important consideration when choosing grips. There are different textures and sizes. Whether you like a tacky wrap grip or a coarser cord grip, you want to feel comfortable holding the golf clubs irons.

Each grip also has performance implications. A few grips are better suited to wet conditions, and the others perform better in dry climates. Another concern is grip size. Many prefer the standard grip, but others like the mid-size grip, depending on the user's hand size.

Bottom Line

This means buying golf clubs, specifically golf clubs irons, to improve your game. Know your playing style, be custom fitted, know your iron types, get the latest technology and materials, and estimate your budget to make the right purchase that will improve your playing of the game and enjoyment in general. Remember that the proper golf irons can have a major impact on your game and its overall experience.