Golf tees are small but important. The right tee height and material can improve your consistency and distance. Most golfers overlook this small detail.
Tee Height
For drivers, the ball should sit about half above the club head at address. This typically means a tee height of 1-1.25 inches. Experiment to find what feels natural for you.
For 3-woods and long irons, use a lower tee height (0.75 inches). For short irons from the tee (par 3s), use minimal tee height (0.5 inches).
Tee Materials
Wooden tees: Classic, biodegradable, affordable. Break easily. Require replacement frequently. Most common choice.
Plastic tees: Durable, reusable, more expensive upfront. Less likely to break. Environmentally less friendly. Good long-term value.
Composite tees: Blend of materials. Durable and eco-friendly. Premium feel. Higher cost.
Tee Recommendations
Best wooden tees: Bamboo – Stronger than standard wood, biodegradable, sustainable.
Best plastic tees: Brush Tees – Soft bristles reduce friction, extend ball life, exceptional durability.
Best value: Basic wooden tees – Affordable, effective, perfectly adequate for most golfers.
Tee Selection Tips
- Keep multiple tee heights in your bag (0.5″, 0.75″, 1-1.25″)
- Replace tees that show cracks or splitting
- Wooden tees should break cleanly, not splinter
- Test different materials and find what feels best
- Consider using more expensive tees if you’re a slow golfer who hits many tee shots
Tee Height and Ball Flight
Higher tee heights reduce spin and can increase carry distance, especially for slower swing speeds. Lower tee heights increase spin and may reduce distance but improve accuracy on shorter holes.
Experiment with tee height during practice to find what works best for your swing.
Key Takeaways
- Tee height affects ball flight and distance
- Most drivers benefit from 1-1.25″ tee height
- Wooden tees are affordable and adequate
- Plastic tees offer better durability and value
- Keep multiple tee heights in your bag
- Replace damaged tees regularly
- Tee selection is a small detail with measurable impact
Tees are inexpensive and easy to overlook, but they impact every tee shot. Invest in quality tees, maintain proper heights, and you’ll see immediate improvement in consistency and distance off the tee.
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