The 11 Best Golf Gifts for Golf Lovers

If you have a golfer in your life you need never be stuck for great gift ideas, no matter what the occasion. No more boring socks, ties or aftershave. The game of golf has advanced tremendously and so has the range of awesome gear, gadgets, and accessories that go with it. You can have your pick not just from novelty items, but also from some very nifty and useful technical gadgets. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the best golf gifts for any golf lover (in no particular order).

The 11 Best Golf Gifts

1. Golf GPS Watch

A new golf GPS watch is the perfect gift for your golfing friend who also loves having the latest tech gadgets.  It combines the power of a golf GPS system, with the convenience and functionality of a watch.   Any golfer will love having, and showing off this handy gadget to their friends.

e.g. Garmin Approach S1 GPS Golf Watch 

garmin s1 golf gps watch best golf gifts 2014The Garmin Approach S1 is an older model, but still one of the best entry-level GPS watches.   It is preloaded with more than 14000 U.S. and Canada courses and more can be added. The watch is available in black or white, includes an odometer, alarm and sets the time and time zone automatically using the GPS functionality.

It’s packed full of features that will seriously impress and excite anyone unwrapping it. It provides yardages to the back, middle and front of the green, measures exact distances from anywhere on the course and tracks your distance using a pedometer when you are walking the course.

It’s completely waterproof, has large numerals so you can read it at a glance and comes with a rechargeable lithium ion battery. It’s ready to use right out of the box with no setup needed and no monthly subscriptions to use it.  If your friend doesn’t already have a golf GPS watch, then the Garmin S1 is a fantastic choice.

Buy the Garmin Approach S1 GPS Golf Watch here!

–> See our list of the Best Golf GPS Watches here!

2. Golf Rangefinder

Have a friend that’s a bit of a perfectionist? Always obsessing over the details?  Then a new golf rangefinder could be the best golf gift for him (or her).  It will them exact yardage to any target on the course, so they never have to complain about the yardage markers being off.

e.g. Bushnell Tour V3 Jolt Standard Edition Golf Laser Rangefinder

bushnell tour v3 rangefinder best golf gifts 2014The Bushnell Tour V3 is easily one of the best rangefinders on the market.  Used by the pros, this makes a very special gift for any golfer and tops the list of as one the best golf gifts.  All players with a rangefinder in their golf bag love them and never play without it. Those without one are eternally envious of those who do.

It can be operated single handed and all you need to do is point it, press the button, wait for the jolt to confirm the laser found the target and read the distance off the display.  Then it is all up to you to make the shot.

It features Pin Seeker Technology to find the exact distance to the flag without being interfered with by other objects in the background. It is completely legal for tournament play and for posting scores for handicap purposes.  It’s also ergonomically designed and has a sturdy and durable rubber casing that makes it very easy to grip. It comes in a handy carry case and a 3-volt battery and 2 year warranty is included.

Buy the Bushnell Tour V3 Golf Laser Rangefinder here!

–>  See our list of the other best golf rangefinders here!

3. Golf Swing Analyzer for Smartphones

Smartphones can do nearly anything these days.  If you know a golf lover who has a newer iPhone or Android device, then you should definitely consider getting them one of these cool swing analyzer devices.

e.g. Zepp Golf 3D Training System (iOS/Android)

zepp 3d golf swing analyzer best golf gifts 2014Every golfer wants to improve their swing and they are always looking for ways to do it simply and without spending thousands on lessons. The Zepp Golf 3D Training System allows you to practice your swing and get immediate feedback and analysis on a range of factors affecting your swing. It simply clips onto your glove, syncs with the app on your smartphone (iPhone and Android) and gives you instant feedback swing after swing.

You also have the ability to see your swing in 3D animated model, so you can analyze it from every angle. Or you can compare your swing to professional players and coaches. With the data provided you can implement corrections and tips on your next swing and start making progress immediately. Apart from having a coach right there with you, there is no better way for a golfer to improve their swing on the spot. This best golf gift item is a must for any avid golfer out there.

Buy the Zepp Golf 3D Training System here!

–> See the rest of the best golf swing analyzers here!

4. Putting Mat / Indoor Putting Green

Putting mats are the best golf gifts for winter!  Any golf lover would appreciate a great putting mat to keep their short game in shape during the off-season.

e.g. SKLZ Accelerator Pro Ball Return Putting Mat

skzl pro return putting matt golf giftsImproving their putting accuracy is on every golfer’s mind. A putting mat like this  one from SKLZ allows them to practice at home, at the office and during the long winter months when they can’t get out on the course.

With this gift the golfer in your life can quickly nip out to the garage to practice or get in a few practice shots between meetings. It’s a great quality item and will provide years of service.

Buy the SKLZ Accelerator Pro Ball Return Putting Mat here!

–>  See the other best putting mats here!

5. Golf Swing Trainer

Golfers are always trying to improve their game.  A good golf swing trainer tool can help them get the upperhand against their friends and the course.

e.g SKLZ Gold Flex Strength and Tempo Trainer

sklz swing trainerCore muscles are important for a golfer and directly affects their swing, accuracy and the distance they get. The Gold Flex allows you to not only warm up before a round, but will also give you a great core workout and help you improve your swing. It is very handy and fast to use at home for a quick workout and swing practice.

Buy the SKLZ Gold Flex Tempo Trainer here!

–> See the other best golf swing trainers here!

6. Golf Travel Bag

Know a golfer who likes to travel? Then, we’re sure they would appreciate a great golf travel bag, so they can safely take their clubs with them.

e.g. CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 Golf Bag Travel Cover 

caddydaddy travel golf bagBusiness trips, family holidays or golfing weekends will be a breeze with the CaddyDaddy. We cannot imagine that any golfer would not be ecstatic receiving this as a gift. It is always a struggle to cart your clubs through the airport and multiple transfer can be irksome with a sub-par golf travel bag.

The CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 is one of the top options out there, and won’t break the bank.  This best golf gift 2014 should top the list for the travelling golfer in your life.

 Buy the CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 Travel Golf Cover here!

–>  See other top golf travel bag options here

 7.  Novelty / Funny Golf Gifts

Even golfers have a sense of humor!

e.g. MySack Golf Ball Storage Sack

mysack golf ball storage sack best golf gifts 2014

Any man with a sense of humor will appreciate this graphically shaped golf ball holder.  The “MySack” appropriately holds exactly two golf balls, has a velcro close top, and can easily be attached to your golf bag.

This gift will guarantee some laughs, and is also quite useful!

Buy the MySack Golf Ball Storage Sack here!

–> Check out other funny golf gifts here

 8. New Golf Glove

Serious golfers will go through a few golf gloves each season, and are always in need of a replacement or backup glove.    It makes a great gift, and is also easy on your wallet ($10-$30).  Just make sure you know their size!

e.g. Nike Men’s Dura Feel VII Golf Glove Regular Left Hand 

nike mens dura feel golf glove golf giftThis glove from Nike looks great, fits well, uses excellent quality material and is extra durable.  There is also Lycra spandex material placed on the fingers and back of hand for maximum flexibility and breathability.  The Dura Feel VII is not the most high-end glove on the market, but for only around $10, you can’t find a much better deal.  It is available in white, or black.

Buy the Nike Dura Feel VII Golf Glove here!

–> See our list of the other best golf gloves here!

 9. Golf Books

Golf is a 99% mental game.  A great golf book will be an interesting read, and could help improve  your friend’s game as well!

e.g. BEN HOGAN’S FIVE LESSONS: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf 

ben hogans five lessons of golfWhether the golfer in your life is a seasoned player or a mere beginner, this timeless and completely illustrated guide will be used time and again. We guarantee it will never be too far out of reach and will get ample use over time.  Ben Hogan’s reveals his special techniques that will help any average golfer improve their scores.  Every golf lover should have this classic on their bookshelf!

Buy it now here!

 –> See more great golf books here!

10. Golf Practice Net

A golf net (coupled with a golf hitting mat)  is one of the best golf gifts for anyone stuck at home during the long winter months, or for someone who just doesn’t have time to go to the range consistently.  Golfers can never get enough practice!

e.g. The Net Return Pro Series Golf Net 

the net return pro series best golf practice netIf price is no issue, then the Net Return Pro Series Golf Net is easily the #1 golf net available todayt.  It is simple to assemble, can be used indoors or outdoors, and is made of the highest end material on the market.  The net 7′ 6″ high, 8′ wide and 3′ 6″ deep,  so make sure there is somewhere in the house to put it.  The only downside of this net, is that it costs $495.

Buy the Net Return Pro Series Golf Net here!

 –> For some cheaper options, see our list of the best golf nets here!

11. New Golf Driver

Probably the #1 thing on most golfers’ list is a brand new driver.

e.g. TaylorMade Men’s JetSpeed Golf Driver 

taylormade jetspeed golf driverIf you’ve heard some hints around the house that someone needs a new driver for his bag, you cannot go wrong with the TaylorMade JetSpeed. This club will generate faster swing speed and increase distance and confidence. Users report it’s a vast improvement over TaylorMade’s previous driver, the RBZ. No wonder GolfDigest gave it the gold in its 2014 hotlist roundup.  In this category it is definitely the best golf gift of 2014. You’ll be proudly credited when asked where he got that amazing new driver from. And his friends will be asking.

Buy the TaylorMade JetSpeed Golf Driver here! 

–> See more top drivers here

Whatever item peaks your interest on our best golf gifts list, the golfer in your life is sure to love it. Make your choice today!

Choosing the Best Golf GPS Watch

Hate carrying additional things around in your pocket?  Don’t mind wearing a watch when you play?  Want to see what time it is, and how far you are from the green in one glance?  Then, a golf GPS watch is the tool for you!  The convenience, portability, and power of many GPS watches on the market today have begun to make  traditional handheld devices obsolete.  So, what’s the best golf GPS watch available?  Well, that depends on what kind of golfer you are:

Top-of-the-line:  Garmin Approach S6

If you don’t mind spending the big bucks, and only want the best of the best, then the new Approach S6 Golf Watch (released September 2014) from GPS specialist Garmin is the device for you.  It comes in three different colorways, and has all the latest bells and whistles: a full color, sunlight-readable, touch screen interface (glove friendly), smart notification for emails and texts, and fantastic battery life (10 hours on GPS mode).  It comes pre-packed with over 38,000 courses from around the world, and does everything you would expect from a top GPS:  pinpoint accurate distances to greens, layups, and doglegs, score/stats keeping, and customizable yardage points.   This watch even calculates your swing strength and tempo, so you can train yourself to swing more consistently. The watch also just looks fantastic, and will definitely draw the envy from other golfers.

If the $400 price tag doesn’t make you flinch, and you want the latest, greatest tech available, then this is the best golf GPS watch for you.

Golfers on a budget:  GolfBuddy WT6

Looking for something a bit more affordable? The GolfBuddy WT6 GPS Watch is a great, no-frills alternatives to full featured watches like the Garmin S6.  It has all the basic features you need, including 38,000 preloaded courses, and decent battery life (6 – 8 hours on GPS).  It will give you measurements to front/back/center green, as well as your shot distance.  It’s a bit bulky to wear, and will definitely not help you make any fashion statements. But, for just a little over $100 on Amazon, you can always use the money saved to buy some great looking clothes instead.  The WT6 gets the job done, and is our choice for the best budget-friendly golf GPS watch.

 

Best value for money:  Bushnell NEO XS

Want the best value for your money?  The NEO-XS Golf GPS Watch from Bushnell is for those discerning golfers who are always try to find the best balance between price and quality.    The NEO XS is incredibly accurate, comes preloaded with over 33,000 golf courses from around the world, and has absolutely fantastic battery life (about 12 hours or three rounds of golf on a single chrage).  It looks great, is one of the lightest Golf GPS watches on the market, and is very comfortable to wear.  It gives all the basic distance measurements (front/back/center of green), as well as hazards and layup distances.   If you don’t need some of the extra frills of the Garmin S6, the Bushnell NEO XS is easily the best value-for-money golf GPS watch available today.

 

 

Best value #2:  Garmin Approach S1

garmin s1 golf gps watch

If you don’t mind using an older model, then the original Garmin S1 Golf Watch is a  a great buy.  The S1 was originally released in 2011, but still looks great and performs up to par with most newer golf watches.    It comes preloaded with over 14,000 courses (US or Canada), and can be loaded with more for free online.  The S1 has a sunlight-readable screen, and will always provide you with pinpoint accurate measurements thanks to Garmin’s patented GPS technology.  It has also has various features like an odometer and automatic time-zone adjustments.

Despite its age, the Garmin S1 is still one of the best golf GPS watches available…especially if you can find a used one.

 

What’s the Best Golf Rangefinder?

Not so good at math?  First time playing on a particular course? Whether you are a newbie, or a seasoned pro, using a golf rangefinder can help your game.  With pinpoint accurate yardage information from your rangefinder, you will be able to make a well informed decision on what club to hit.   It could be the difference between putting for birdie, and trying to save your double-bogey.   So, what is the best golf rangefinder? Below is a look at some of the top options available on the market today.  First, let’s take a look at what exactly is a golf rangefinder. 

What Is A Rangefinder?

A golf rangefinder is an electronic device that looks sort of like a single-lens binocular.  It allows you to quickly and accurately determine how far away you are from certain points on the course. You can use it when shooting for the pin, looking to avoid a hazard, or preparing for your drive off the tee.  Instead of struggling to calculate in your head how far away a fairway marker is, you can use your golf rangefinder to get a quick and accurate yardage estimate. This makes it much easier to decide on what club to hit, and will hopefully help you lower your scores.

Using a rangefinder is simple.  You just need to look at a target on the course (i.e. flag, yardage marker, tree, etc), and push the button or trigger.  The device will shoot an invisible laser beam at the target, which is then reflected back to the device to calculate the distance. The rangefinder will then instantaenously display the yardage for you.  Here is a commercial from the industry leader, Bushnell, that shows what a rangefinder will do:

Advantages of using a Rangefinder

The best golfers in the world use rangefinders, and there is a reason why.  With accurate and detailed yardage information, you will have more confidence in your club selection, and be able to lower your scores. It will be especially useful if you are playing on a new, unfamiliar course.

Keep in mind that the best golf rangefinders can run upwards of a few hundred dollars.   You should consider how much use you will get out of a rangefinder before you make the purchase. While avid golfers will certainly get their moneys worth, the same isn’t to be said for those who only pick up the clubs a couple times a year.

Factors To Consider When Purchasing

When trying to find the best golf rangefinder for you, you may be overwhelmed with the options that are available. However, you can narrow down your search by make sure to consider and evaluate some key factors that will be important to you.

  • Size: How big do you want your rangefinder to be? Do you want it to be something that you can keep in your pocket, or is it more intended to be stored in your golf bag? Deciding this will help you determine what sized rangefinder works best for you.
  • Battery Life: Some golf rangefinders require you to install batteries while others come with a rechargeable core. Either way, you’ll want to consider how long the batteries last and how much you’ll have to switch them out or recharge the device.
  • Accuracy / Range: Probably the most important factor. After all, if you keep getting yardage information that leads you to use a 6-iron instead of a 7-iron, and you keep overshooting, then using a rangefinder is pointless. Choose a reputable device that is proven to be accurate, and has sufficient range for your game.
  • Accessories: Some rangefinders come with clips, bags, lens cleaners and more. While some products will include all of these accessories, others will have to be purchased individually. Keep this in mind when you are considering the price of the rangefinder.
  • Price: You can pay anywhere from around $100 to upwards of $700 for top-of-the-line rangefinders.  If you are not too serious of a golfer, you may want to consider the cheaper options.
  • Tournament Legal:  If you play in professional golf tournaments, you want to make sure your rangefinder is legal for tournament play

The Best Golf Rangefinder – Top 5 Picks

Leupold GX-3i2 Rangefinder

Golfers may not be familiar with the Leupold brand, because the only products they make are rangefinders!  The Leupold GX-3i2 rangefinder is one of the top options in the market, that is if you are willing to drop over $300 to get it.  The device has incredible range (700 yards) and accuracy (1/10 yard).  The one-touch “scan mode” allows you to get distances to multiple targets in one look.  This rangefinder also works in a variety of weather conditions.

The device itself is is small, sleek, tournament legal, and also comes with a nice carrying case.  Whipping this thing out will definitely impress your golfing buddies.

If price is not an obstacle, and you want the best rangefinder on the market, then this is the one for you.

 

Halo XRT Laser Rangefinder 

halo xrt 6x24 golf rangefinder

 

 

 

 

 

 

From one end of the price spectrum to the other, the Halo XRT can be found for around $230.  The XRT was actually originally designed for hunting, but has proven to work well on the golf course too.  It offers 6x magnification with range capabilities of 400 yards, and gives accurate measurements to within 1 yard.

The device is water resistant, comes with a nylon carrying case, and includes a 1-year warranty.  The Halo XRT is bare bones and doesn’t provide some of the fancier features that other premium devices do, but if you are looking for a good entry-level device, then this may be the best golf rangefinder for you!

 

TecTecTec VPRO500 Golf Rangefinder 

This mid-priced golf rangefinder from startup TecTecTec is currently one of the most popular and highly rated options on Amazon.

It is incredibly easy to use, has range of up to 540 yards, provides accuracy within 1 yard, and can be aimed at various targets (flag, hazards, trees, etc.)..  The display is super clear, easy to read, and has 6x zoom.

The VPRO500is small, lightweight (just 185 grams), and is built with strong material that is both water and dust resistant.

It comes with its own carrying case, lanyard cable, and battery.  It uses one standard CR2 battery, which can be easily bought at most convenience stores, grocery stores, etc.

If you don’t mind going with an alternative brand, then you should definitely check out this golf rangefinder from TecTecTec.  As a startup that is trying to break into the market, they offer excellent customer service.  If your device has any problem, you can easily contact them to get it resolved. There is 60 day money back guarantee and a 1 year warranty included.

Nikon COOLSHOT 20 Golf Laser Rangefinder

nikon coolshot 20 cheap golf rangefinder

Nikon is known more for making cameras, but they are also involved in sports optics…including awesome golf rangefinders!

The COOLSHOT 20 is Nikon’s lightest, and most compact golf rangefinder.  It weighs just 125 grams, and can easily fit in your pocket or golf bag, making it quick and convenient to whip out on every shot hole.

The rangefinder has a range of 550 yards, 6x zoom, is accurate to within 1 yard, and has an 8-second continuous scan mode so that you can pan across the course.  You can quickly and easily lock onto a variety of objects including hills, doglegs, trees, bunkers, lakes, golf carts, and of course, the flagstick.  The COOLSHOT 20 is rainproof, and can even be used in harsh temperatures (-10°C to +50°C).

Overall, the Nikon Coolshot 20 is easily one of the best golf rangefinders on the market.   The performance will lack a little if you compare to a high end Bushnell or Leupold device, but for a price of under $200, this Nikon is of fantastic value.  If you are looking for an affordable, quality rangefinder from a reputable brand, then this may be it.

 

 

Bushnell Tour V3 Golf Laser Rangefinder 

bushnell tour v3 standard edition best golf rangefinderBushnell is easily the most popular rangefinder brand, and is used by over 90% of PGA tour professionals.  The V3 is a prime example why.  Despite being a slightly older model, this device still outperforms many of the newer offerings on the market.

The range capabilities on the V3 go up to 1,000 yards, which should be more than you’ll ever need, no matter how far you’ve shanked yourself into the woods!  It is accurate to within 1 yard.

Bushnell is the proprietor of many key golf rangefinder technologies. This includes “scan” mode which will give you continuous yardage updates as you pan across the course.  Bushnell’s famous “JOLT” technology is the main feature, which vibrates the rangefinder, so you know when you are locked on to the flag.

The device comes with a rechargable 3-Volt Battery, carrying case, and includes a 2 year warranty.

The Bushnell Tour V3 is of awesome value, and is our pick as the best golf rangefinder for the money.

Also check out the super premium Bushnell Tour X Rangefinder (accurate to within 0.5 yards)

 

Golf Rangefinder Comparison Chart

Use this chart to conveniently compare some of the top golf rangefinders on the market today.

PIctureNamePriceRatingOverview
bushnell tour v3 standard edition golf laser rangefinderBushnell Tour V3 STandard Edition Golf Laser Rangefinder$2554.6Best device from Bushnell, the top rangefinder brand in golf! Very reasonable price
leupold gx-3i series digital rangefinderLeupold GX-3i Series Digital Rangefinder$3504.9Top of the line device -- insanely accurate, easy to use, but will cost you a pretty penny
Halo XRT Laser Rangefinder$1024.2Made for hunting, but works for golf! Great cheap alternative to the top golf brands!
Nikon COOLSHOT 20$1994.5Fantastic, affordable rangefinder from reputable brand Nikon
Simmons Laser Rangefinder$1184.3Made for hunting, but works well on the golf course too! Difficult to target at longer distances (200+ yards)
Bushnell Tour V2 Standard Edition GOlf Laser Rangefinder$3154.3Older version of the V3 from Bushnell, but still works fantastic.
bushnell 5x20 golf scope rangefinderBushnell 5x20 Golf Scope Rangefinder$503.3Super portable and cheap, but limited yardage range (max 200 yards). Dont buy if you have shaky hands.
Leupold GX-4i Series Digital Rangefinder$3504.2Superb, well made device that works as advertised. A bit expensive though.
callaway golf diablo octane rangefinderCallaway Golf Diablo Octane Rangefinder by Nikon$2424.5Older model from Callaway -- fast and accurate with a decent price tag
bushnell tour z6 tournament edition golf rangefinderBushnell Tour Z6 Tournament Edition Golf Laser Rangefinder$3994.3Top of the line speed, range, and accuracy. Also top of the line price.
Bushnell Tour X$6804.8Incredible rangefinder, but also incredibly expensive