
What Size Golf Tees to Use: A Complete Guide by Length and Club Type
Golf tee length depends primarily on the club you're using and your personal preference. I'll break down exactly what size tees you should use for different situations on the course.
For drivers and fairway woods, I recommend using longer tees (2.75 inches to 3.25 inches). This allows you to tee the ball higher, which is crucial for modern drivers with larger clubheads. The ideal height is when half of the ball is above the driver's crown when the club is resting on the ground.
When using irons, shorter tees (1.5 inches to 2.25 inches) work best. You'll want just enough height to get the ball slightly off the ground - about half an inch is typically sufficient. This helps you make clean contact while maintaining control.
Here's a quick reference guide for tee lengths:
• Driver: 2.75" - 3.25" tees • Fairway Woods: 2.25" - 2.75" tees • Hybrids: 2" - 2.25" tees • Irons: 1.5" - 2.25" tees
Many golfers find it convenient to carry multiple tee sizes in their bag. I typically keep a mix of:
• Long tees (3.25") for driver shots • Medium tees (2.25") for fairway woods and hybrids • Short tees (1.5") for irons
The material of your tees also matters. Wooden tees are traditional and biodegradable, while plastic or bamboo tees tend to be more durable. I prefer wooden tees as they're environmentally friendly and provide good feedback when struck.
Remember that these are general guidelines, and you might need to adjust based on your swing style and preferences. The key is to experiment with different heights until you find what works best for your game.
A good way to check if you're using the right tee height is to practice at the driving range. If you're consistently hitting under the ball or topping it, you might need to adjust your tee height accordingly.
Pro tip: Mark your longer tees with a line at different heights. This helps you quickly set consistent tee heights for different clubs without having to think about it during your round.