clubheads

Clubheads are the primary striking components of golf clubs, attached to shafts and used to deliver impact to the ball. The term covers the heads of drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges, and putters. The clubhead determines the contact point, hitting surface size, weight distribution, and center of gravity, all of which influence ball speed, trajectory, forgiveness, and feel.

Design and components. A clubhead typically comprises the face, crown or top surface, sole at the bottom, and the hosel that joins it to the shaft. The face may incorporate grooves and varying textures. Many irons use a cavity-back design to redistribute weight for forgiveness, while blades aim for a traditional, compact profile. Perimeter weighting and adjustable features on some heads modify moment of inertia and center of gravity to improve stability and launch.

Materials and construction. Modern drivers and woods often use titanium or composite materials for light, strong heads, sometimes with a carbon-fiber crown. Irons range from forged steel to cast stainless steel. Wedges are commonly forged high-carbon steel for feel, while putter heads vary widely in material and finish. Forged heads tend to offer a different feel and feedback than cast heads, and complex shapes are more feasible with castings.

Regulation and performance. Governing bodies such as the USGA and R&A regulate head size, weight, and performance standards. For example, a driver's maximum head volume is 460 cubic centimeters and there are limits on club length and certain performance characteristics to ensure fair play.

Maintenance and care. Regular cleaning, groove maintenance on iron faces, and checks of loft and lie settings help sustain performance and accuracy.