Golf Equipment and Performance

The PGA Tour began recording driving distance stats in 1980.  The average driving distance at the time was just under 257 yards. Today, the average driving distance on tour is just under 300 yards, with many pros averaging around 310 yards.

The argument that the increase in distance is due to advanced athleticism along with size and strength ignores the fact that the advancement in golf equipment plays a significant role. Rory Mcllroy, for instance, is 5’9” and 161lbs. And while he is very athletic and talented, he’s hardly a giant.  His driving distance average for 2024 was 320 yards. Additionally, women on the LPGA tour are driving over 250 yards: almost as long as men did in 1980. And most of them are small in stature.

So, it’s clear that golf equipment plays a role in improved performance from the pro to the weekend golfer. And it’s not only advanced club technology that makes a difference.  It’s balls, shoes, apparel, gloves, and training advances that also contribute.

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