Most golfers use one tee per hole, primarily for the first shot, especially on par-4 and par-5 holes.
On par-3 holes, tees are often not required, though many golfers still prefer using them for consistency. If you’re playing on tough ground or often lose tees, it’s smart to bring extras. Additionally, players using specific tees for different clubs may need more tees for optimal performance.
| Factor | Estimated Tees Needed |
|---|---|
| Standard 18-Hole Round | 18 tees (1 per hole) |
| Par-3 Course | 6-10 tees |
| Casual Play (reuse tees) | 10 tees |
| Risk of Breaking/losing Tees | 20-30 tees |
| Professional Tournament Round | 15-20 tees |
What Are Golf Tees?
A golf tee is a small device used to elevate the ball off the ground for your first shot on each hole. Most golfers use tees for their drives, though tees are also useful for certain shorter shots. Golf tees come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, including plastic, wood, and even biodegradable options. The right tee can help you set up for a better shot, and having enough tees ensures you won’t run into trouble on the course.
5 Factors to Consider When Deciding How Many Golf Tees You Need
There are a few things to consider when deciding how many golf tees you should bring with you. These factors include the course, the type of game you’re playing, and personal preferences.
1. The Length of the Course
- If you’re playing a standard 18-hole course, you’ll likely need at least 18 tees, one for each hole. Some courses have tees placed at different yardages for different skill levels, but most golfers use one tee per hole.
- For a shorter course, such as a par-3 or executive course, you might not need as many tees because you won’t be hitting the ball off the tee on every hole. You may only need 6-12 tees, depending on how many holes require a tee shot.
2. Your Playing Style
- If you tend to lose tees easily, or if you frequently break them, it’s a good idea to bring extra. Beginners or golfers who are just starting out may be more likely to lose or damage tees.
- For players who play in tournaments or competitive settings, it’s common to carry several tees to ensure that you don’t run out.
3. Course Conditions
- Some courses have hard or uneven ground that can cause tees to break more quickly. If the ground is hard, you may need a sturdier tee, which could last longer.
- On courses with softer turf, the tees might not break as often, and you could get by with fewer tees.
4. The Type of Tee You Use
- The type of tee also affects how often you’ll need a replacement. Plastic tees are durable but may break if struck with force. Wooden tees are cheaper but can break easily, especially if you hit them with a driver. Biodegradable tees are a great eco-friendly option, but they may be more prone to breaking.
5. Personal Preference
- Some golfers prefer using a new tee for every hole, while others may reuse tees throughout the round. This personal preference can influence how many tees you should pack for your game.
Typical Number of Tees for 18 Holes
Here’s a breakdown of how many tees you may need for different situations:
| Situation | Number of Tees Needed |
|---|---|
| Standard 18-Hole Course | 18 tees (one for each hole) |
| Par 3 or Executive Course | 6-12 tees (depending on layout) |
| Casual Game (reuse tees) | 5-10 tees |
| Frequent Tee Breakage | 20-30 tees |
| Tournament Play | 15-20 tees |
3 Things How to Choose the Right Golf Tee
When choosing golf tees, it’s essential to consider the type of golf game you’re playing, your skill level, and the course conditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking out tees:
1. Size of the Tee
- Golf tees come in different lengths. Standard tees are about 2 ¾ inches long, but there are shorter tees (1 ¾ inches) and longer tees (up to 4 inches).
- The length of the tee should be adjusted depending on the club you’re using. For drivers, longer tees are ideal to give the ball the right height for a clean strike.
2. Material
- Wooden Tees: These are the most traditional type of golf tees. They are easy to find and inexpensive but can break easily.
- Plastic Tees: These are more durable and often come with a “zero friction” design that helps the ball launch without much resistance.
- Biodegradable Tees: Made from eco-friendly materials, these tees are a great choice for those who want to help reduce plastic waste.
3. Tee Height
- A common rule of thumb for tee height is that the top of the driver’s clubhead should be level with the middle of the ball when you set up your tee. Different tees may help you adjust this depending on how high you want the ball to sit.
Do You Need Extra Golf Tees?
It’s always a good idea to bring extra tees, even if you don’t think you’ll need them. Golf courses can vary in their conditions, and losing or breaking a tee during your round could cause a delay. Additionally, if you’re playing in a tournament or a round with friends, it’s always courteous to have some extra tees to share. Bringing a small bag or pouch to carry a few dozen tees is usually a good idea. It’s also handy to keep a couple of tees in your pocket or in the bag’s smaller compartments for quick access.
How Many Golf Tees Are Needed for a Round of Golf?
The number of golf tees required depends on various factors like skill level, personal preference, and the type of tee used. On average, most golfers carry around 10-15 tees per round. This accounts for occasional breaks, losses, and specific requirements for different shots, such as driver shots or par-3 holes.
| Skill Level | Number of Tees Suggested |
|---|---|
| Beginner Golfers | 15-20 |
| Amateur Golfers | 10-15 |
| Low-Handicap Golfers | 5-10 |
| Recreational Golfers | 10-15 |
Why is My Golf Tee Setup Not Working?
Common reasons include:
- Improper Tee Height: Ensure consistent tee height. For driver shots, aim for 1.5-2.5 inches. For fairway wood or hybrid club shots, 1.5-2 inches is optimal.
- Wrong Type of Tee: Choose tees suitable for your swing style, such as bamboo tees, traditional wooden tees, or adjustable golf tees.
- Angle of Attack: A poor upward or downward angle impacts ball flight and carry distance.
- Environmental Impact: If using eco-friendly options like bamboo golf tees or biodegradable plastic tees, ensure durability matches your swing style.
What is the Rule of Thumb for Tee Heights?
The general rule of thumb is to tee the golf ball so that half of it sits above the clubface. For a 460cc driver, the golf ball should be 1.5-2.5 inches above the ground. For fairway woods, hybrids, or approach shots, shorter heights of 1.5-2 inches ensure solid contact.
| Club Type | Proper Tee Height |
| Driver | 1.5-2.5 inches |
| Fairway Wood | 1.5-2 inches |
| Hybrid Club | 1.5 inches |
| 7-Iron | Just off the ground |
How Does the Type of Tee Affect My Game of Golf?
Different tees provide varying benefits:
- Traditional Wooden Tees: Durable and affordable; suitable for most skill levels.
- Plastic Tees: Last longer but may bend, affecting consistent height.
- Bamboo Golf Tees: An eco-friendly alternative with adequate durability.
- Specialty Golf Tees: Options like anti-slice tees aid in correcting ball flight issues.
- Adjustable Golf Tees: Allow precision for consistent tee height, beneficial for improving launch angles.
What Tee Length Should I Use?
Golf tees come in a variety of lengths to suit a wide range of clubs and swing styles. The most common lengths are:
- 2.75-4 Inches: Ideal for driver shots and maximum distance.
- 1.5-2 Inches: Suitable for fairway woods, hybrids, or shorter holes.
- Shorter than 1.5 Inches: Best for par-3 holes or iron shots.
Why Are Tees Important on Par-3 Holes?
On par-3 holes, shorter tees help position the golf ball for approach shots. A consistent tee height ensures cleaner contact and better ball flight, contributing to an accurate estimate of carry distance and a balanced approach shot.
What Factors Should Influence My Choice for Golf Tees?
- Player Preferences: High-handicap men or beginner golfers may prefer traditional wooden tees or friendly options like adjustable tees.
- Club Selection: Match the tee length to your club types for optimal launch angles.
- Environmental Impact: Opt for biodegradable materials if sustainability is a concern.
- Durability: Choose compressed wood tees or standard plastic tees based on your driving range habits.
How Do Tee Colors Indicate Player Preferences?
Tee colors often represent tee lengths, allowing golfers to select suitable options quickly. For example:
- White: Standard length for average golfers.
- Blue or Black: Longer tees for driver shots.
- Yellow or Green: Shorter tees for irons or fairway woods.
- Red: Popular among female golfers and shorter hitters.
How Many Tees are in a Typical Set of Tees?
A standard set of tees contains around 50-100 pieces. Budget-conscious golfers may opt for sets with a wide range of lengths, ensuring they have options for any club selection.
How Do Golf Tees Impact Driving Distance?
Consistent tee height is critical for maximizing driving distance. A proper upward angle of attack on the tee shot helps achieve optimal launch angles, resulting in greater carry distance. For example, an average golfer with a 460cc driver benefits from using tees 1.5-2.5 inches high.
What Tee Options Are Available for Driving Ranges?
Driving ranges offer accessible options like traditional wood tees, standard plastic tees, or eco-friendly alternatives. Adjustable tees allow golfers to practice with consistent height, improving golfer satisfaction.
How Do Tees Vary Across Golf Courses?
Golf course tees, like those at Augusta National Golf Club, vary in height and material to suit the course’s unique challenges. Proper selection ensures performance across different holes, from 155-yard par-3 12th holes to 7,150-7,400 yards courses.
Final Thought
In summary, how many golf tees you need depends on several factors, including the length of the course, the type of game you’re playing, and your personal preferences. For most golfers, having 10-20 tees on hand for an 18-hole round is plenty.
It’s important to choose the right size and material for your game, and don’t forget to bring extras in case you lose or break one. Ultimately, having the right amount of tees ensures you can play your best game without worrying about running out.