Choose a ladies fairway wood based on loft, shaft flex, forgiveness and where you want to use it most. A 3 wood can suit tee shots and better players, while a 5 wood, 7 wood or 9 wood is usually easier to launch from the fairway.
Most women golfers should prioritise easy launch and forgiveness over low loft or maximum distance.
Women’s fairway woods are usually lighter, often shorter and commonly fitted with softer shafts than men’s fairway woods. They may also have higher lofts or more launch-friendly head designs to help get the ball airborne from the tee, fairway or light rough.
The right choice depends on your swing. Some women suit standard men’s fairway woods, while some men or senior golfers may suit ladies fairway woods if they need a lighter club, softer shaft or easier launch.
A ladies 3 wood usually has the least loft and the most distance potential, but it is harder to launch. A ladies 5 wood offers a better balance of distance and forgiveness.
A ladies 7 wood launches higher and can replace long irons. A ladies 9 wood launches higher again and can be useful for golfers who want maximum help getting the ball airborne.
Lofts vary by brand and model, but a ladies 3 wood is usually around 15 degrees, a ladies 5 wood is often around 18 to 19 degrees, and a ladies 7 wood is commonly around 21 to 22 degrees.
Always check the individual club listing because modern adjustable fairway woods may vary.
Choose a ladies fairway wood if you want more distance and higher launch from the tee or fairway. Choose a hybrid if you want more control, a shorter shaft and better performance from rough.
Many golfers carry both because they solve different distance gaps.
Set the ball slightly forward of centre, make a smooth swing and brush the ground through impact. Do not try to lift the ball into the air.
A higher lofted fairway wood, such as a 7 wood, is usually easier to hit than a lower lofted 3 wood.
Yes, used ladies fairway woods are worth buying if they are properly checked, graded and suited to your swing. A second hand ladies fairway wood can give you solid performance at a lower price than buying new.
Compare loft, shaft flex, condition and brand before choosing.