Golf accessories

Golf Essentials Every Golfer Needs

As a golfer, you know how important it is to be prepared when you hit the course. While clubs and balls often get the most attention, there are a few smaller accessories that are essential for a smooth and respectful game. Two of these essential tools are the tee and the pitchfork. Whether you’re teeing off or cleaning up the green, these accessories play a crucial role. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about tees and pitchforks, and why they’re essential in every golf bag.

What is a Pitchfork and What Do You Use It For in Golf?

What is a Pitchfork?

A pitchfork, also known as a pitchfork tool or green repair tool, is a small, handy tool that golfers use to repair damage to the green. These marks are often caused by the impact of a golf ball hitting the soft turf of the green, leaving a small dent or ‘pitch mark’. It is an important part of golf etiquette to keep the green tidy and repair these marks.

How to Use a Pitchfork?

Using a pitchfork is simple, but requires some care to avoid further damaging the green. When you see a pitch mark, insert the pitchfork into the grass around the dent. Then, gently push the grass towards the centre of the dent, rather than pulling up on the dent. This helps the grass heal faster without damaging the roots. Once the pitch mark is repaired, you can smooth the area with your putter.

Why is it Important to Use a Pitchfork?

Using a pitchfork is not only a matter of good etiquette, but also helps maintain the quality of the golf course. Uncorrected pitch marks can damage the green, slowing down the recovery of the grass and creating unevenness that can affect the putting line of other golfers. In addition, neglecting to repair the greens can result in expensive maintenance for the golf course.

What is a Tee and Why Use It?

What is a Tee?

A golf tee is a small tool, often made of wood or plastic, on which the golf ball is placed on the first stroke of a hole, also known as the tee. The tee is stuck into the ground so that the ball is slightly elevated, making it easier to give the ball a good hit on the tee. Tees come in different heights, depending on the player's preference and the type of club being used.

How to Use a Tee

Using a tee is especially important when teeing off with a driver or wood club, as it helps the player hit the ball better. You stick the tee into the ground on the tee box (the starting position of a hole), and place the ball on it. The height of the tee can vary, but in general, the top of the ball should sit slightly above the club when it is on the ground. This helps to give the ball more height and distance on the tee.

When to Use a Tee

A tee is usually only used on the first shot of each hole, from the tee box. It provides the player with a consistent surface to hit the ball from. Using a tee is optional, but almost all golfers choose to use one at the tee because it provides better ball position. For irons and short shots, such as on par-3 holes, a lower tee or no tee at all can be used, depending on the situation and the player's preference.