Have you ever found yourself standing in a golf store, overwhelmed by the endless options of golf club sets? As an intermediate golfer looking to take your game to the next level, choosing the right equipment can be complicated. With so many brands, models and features to consider, it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of choices.
That’s where we come in. We understand the importance of finding the perfect set of clubs to match your skill level and playing style. In this article, we’ll provide an honest and unbiased review of the best golf club sets for intermediate players. Investing in the right clubs can make a significant impact on your performance and enjoyment of the game.
| Product | Features | Our Rating | Purchasing Options |
|---|---|---|---|
 Cobra Mens Fly XL - Best All-Around |
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 XXIO 12 Premium - Best Premium Pick |
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 Taylormade RBZ Speedlite - Best Lightweight for Game Improvement |
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Who Can Be Considered an Intermediate Golf Player?
In the world of golf, player skill levels are often categorized as beginner, intermediate, and advanced. However, it’s important to note that there is no universal agreement on the exact definitions of these categories, particularly when it comes to handicap indexes. The classification of an intermediate golfer can vary depending on the source, region, or specific golf community.
Despite this lack of consensus on handicap ranges, there are several general characteristics that are commonly associated with intermediate golfers. These players typically have been playing regularly for at least a year or two and have developed a solid understanding of the game’s rules and etiquette. On the scoreboard, intermediate players often shoot consistently in the 85-100s for 18 holes on a par 72 course.
In terms of skills and course management, intermediate golfers demonstrate a noticeable improvement from the beginner stage. They can hit most clubs with reasonable consistency and have begun to understand basic shot shaping. These players usually reach greens in regulation about 25-40% of the time and hit fairways roughly 40-50% of the time. They’ve developed some ability to read greens, judge putts and understand basic course management principles. Intermediate golfers often practice regularly beyond just playing rounds and may take occasional lessons to improve specific aspects of their game.
While the journey from beginner to advanced is a continuous process, intermediate golfers occupy that crucial middle ground where foundational skills are solidified, and more advanced techniques begin to emerge. They’ve moved beyond the basic struggle to make consistent contact with the ball and are now focusing on refining their technique, improving consistency, and developing a more strategic approach to the game. This stage is often characterized by a growing passion for the sport and a desire to continually improve and challenge oneself on the course.
Our List of Top Golf Club Sets for Intermediate Players in 2024
After testing many golf club sets, we compiled a list of the best ones you can get for this critical phase of your golf journey. Whatever your budget, you can find a set you can afford that still meets your needs as an intermediate golfer.
The following are our top selections based on our own testing, research, and experience:
- Cobra Mens Fly XL - Best All-Around
- XXIO 12 Premium - Best Premium Pick
- Taylormade RBZ Speedlite - Best Lightweight for Game Improvement
- Callaway Edge Unisex Set - Best Unisex Option
- Taylormade RBZ SPEEDLITE - Best for Ladies
- Tour Edge Hot Launch HL-4 Togo - Best for Fast Swingers
- Callaway Strata - Best Budget-Friendly Option
- Stix Golf 9-Piece Club Set - Best Simplistic Design
#1 - Cobra Mens Fly XL – Best All-Around
The Cobra Fly XL is an excellent choice for intermediate players looking to take their game to the next level. I was thoroughly impressed by the performance, forgiveness and overall value it delivers.
Upon inspection, the lightweight design and premium components are immediately apparent. The oversized titanium driver (10.5°) inspires confidence with its heel-biased weighting, helping you launch longer, straighter drives with reduced slice spin. The shallow-profile fairway wood is equally forgiving, while the hybrids provide seamless gapping for those crucial long approach shots.
Where this set truly shines is in the irons. The traditional cavity back design and perimeter weighting offer exceptional distance and forgiveness, even on off-center hits. You’ll notice an effortless launch and improved accuracy, allowing you to attack more pins with confidence.
On the green, the premium milled-face blade putter provides excellent feel and control on both long and short putts. The included cart bag is well-organized with ample storage, making it convenient to access all your gear.
Pros
- Forgiving, high-launching driver for reduced slice spin
- Easy-to-hit fairway wood and hybrids
- Cavity back irons deliver distance and accuracy
- Premium milled putter for enhanced feel
- Functional, spacious cart bag included
Cons
- No sand wedge included in the set
- Cart bag lacks a stand for walking the course
Overall, the Cobra Fly XL is undoubtedly one of the top complete sets for intermediate golfers. The well-rounded club selection, forgiving performance and high-quality components make it an excellent value proposition. If you’re an aspiring mid-handicapper seeking to improve your skills, this set will not disappoint.
Check out our dedicated Cobra Fly X review here.
#2 - XXIO 12 Premium – Best Premium Pick
The XXIO 12 Premium 10-Piece Complete Set is designed with a comprehensive package of woods, irons and a hybrid that cater to moderate swing speeds.
The ActivWing technology, used in the woods, is an innovative design that alters aerodynamic forces during the downswing, helping to stabilize the clubhead and guide it to the optimal impact angle. The result? More speed and distance off the tee.
The Rebound Frame technology, found in both the woods and irons, is another great feature. By alternating between stiff and flexible zones, the clubs enhance the coefficient of restitution (COR), effectively acting like a spring within a spring. This technology, combined with the Flat Cup Face design, increases ball speed and distance across the entire face.
XXIO has also focused on forgiveness in this set. The lightweight crown in the driver allows for a lower center of gravity (CG) and increased moment of inertia (MOI), helping to minimize the effects of off-center hits. The irons feature titanium faces, just 2.1mm thick, for added flexibility and ball speed.
While the set’s premium price point may be a drawback for many, the included cart bag and headcovers add value and convenience. The Dual Speed Technology, which pairs a heavier clubhead with a lightweight shaft, may take some adjustment for certain players.
Pros
- ActivWing technology stabilizes clubhead for optimal impact
- Rebound Frame enhances COR for increased distance
- Flat Cup Face promotes ball speed across the face
- Lightweight crown increases forgiveness in the driver
- Titanium iron faces offer flexibility and ball speed
Cons
- Premium price point
- Dual Speed Technology may require adjustment period
The XXIO 12 Premium 10-Piece Complete Set is a great option for intermediate golfers. With a focus on speed, distance and forgiveness, this set provides the tools necessary to take your game to new heights. While the premium price may give some pause, the advanced technologies and comprehensive club selection make it a winning investment for those serious about improving their golf game.
#3 - Taylormade RBZ Speedlite – Best Lightweight for Game Improvement
The TaylorMade RBZ Speedlite Complete 13-Piece Set is another exceptional choice for intermediate golfers aiming to enhance their performance on the course. This set offers a comprehensive array of clubs designed to optimize your game with advanced technology and thoughtful design.
Starting with the driver, the 460cc titanium head is incredibly lightweight, featuring advanced aerodynamic shaping that facilitates faster swing speeds. The high Moment of Inertia (MOI) head design paired with Speed Pocket technology ensures optimal launch and enhanced forgiveness, making it easier for you to achieve straighter, longer shots even on off-center hits. This is particularly beneficial for intermediate players looking to improve consistency.
The fairway woods and rescue clubs in this set also boast impressive features. The lightweight 180cc fairway wood clubhead with a low center of gravity (CG) encourages higher launch angles, while the Speed Pocket enhances face flex, providing greater performance on shots struck low on the face. The rescue clubs are versatile, with a sole design that promotes high-launching shots, perfect for navigating tricky lies.
TaylorMade’s irons in the RBZ Speedlite set are crafted with advanced perimeter weighting, adding forgiveness and making it easier for you to achieve higher launches. The concentrated mass near the sole of the club lowers the CG, enhancing launch conditions. The multi-function sole geometry ensures smooth turf interaction, which is critical for maintaining accuracy and control from various lies on the course.
The wedge is designed with high-volume grooves to improve spin and control, which helps with precision shots around the green. The C-grind sole allows for versatility, helping you navigate a variety of conditions effortlessly. The putter, a high-stability mallet, features TaylorMade’s patented Pure Roll technology, providing a consistent roll and improved accuracy on the greens. The multi-alignment technology aids in accurate aiming, whether you prefer to align using the topline, sight dot or cutaway channel.
Completing the set, the lightweight cart bag is not only stylish, inspired by racing aesthetics, but also highly functional with eight pockets, including an insulated cooling pouch. The 14-way top and structured base provide excellent organization and stability.
Pros
- Lightweight 460cc titanium driver for faster swings
- Fairway woods with low CG for higher launch
- Advanced perimeter weighting in irons for forgiveness
- High-volume grooves on wedge for better spin
- Stylish, functional cart bag with ample pockets
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited customization options for flex and shaft material
This set is particularly well-suited for intermediate players due to its combination of forgiveness, advanced technology and overall playability. Each club is engineered to support and improve your game, making the TaylorMade RBZ Speedlite a top contender for those looking to maximize their performance.
#4 - Callaway Edge Unisex Set – Best Unisex Option
Each club in the Edge set is thoughtfully designed to provide maximum forgiveness and distance, helping you hit longer, straighter shots consistently from tee to green.
The oversized titanium driver features a thin, fast face and low, deep center of gravity paired with a lightweight graphite shaft. This combination generates impressive ball speed and launch for long, booming drives down the fairway. The aerodynamic 3-wood is just as easy to hit high and straight, thanks to the low CG and perimeter weighting.
Callaway’s 5-hybrid is extremely versatile and forgiving. The compact head and cambered sole help you launch the ball high from a variety of lies, making those long approach shots much less intimidating. The 6-9 irons boast large cavity back heads with stabilizing bars for increased stability and forgiveness on off-center hits. You’ll enjoy solid feel and control with these irons.
Around the greens, the aggressive grooves on the pitching wedge provide ample spin for sticking it close to the pin. The sand wedge’s wide sole helps it glide through sand and thick rough smoothly. Topping it off is an Odyssey White Hot Pro putter with a great feel and a SuperStroke grip for a stable, consistent stroke.
Pros
- Powerful driver for increased distance off the tee
- Forgiving hybrids and irons make mishits playable
- Spin-generating wedges for precision around greens
- Quality Odyssey putter for smooth, confident putting
- Lightweight graphite shafts aid swing speed
Cons
- Set makeup may leave distance gaps for some players
- No gap wedge included
The Callaway Edge set provides the performance features intermediate golfers need to shoot lower scores and enjoy the game more. The clubs are built for distance and forgiveness – exactly what you want when you’re ready to break through to the next skill level. If you’re an intermediate player, you can’t go wrong choosing this high-quality set from one of golf’s top brands.
#5 - Taylormade RBZ SPEEDLITE – Best for Ladies
![Taylormade RBZSPEEDLITE Golf Club Set Carbon Shaft Ladies Golf Club [Catalog Genuine Shaft Mounted Model] Right Caddy Bag with 9 Flex: L](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31OvFRVdbzL._SL500_.jpg)
The Taylormade RBZSPEEDLITE women’s golf set provides an impressive array of game-improvement technologies packaged in a sleek, lightweight design perfectly suited for intermediate female golfers.
At the heart of this set are the titanium head Speed Pocket fairway woods and rescue irons. The Speed Pocket design allows the face to flex more at impact, increasing ball speed and distance even on off-center hits. You’ll appreciate the easy launch and consistent distance gaps between clubs. The speed pocket wedges feature a C-grind sole that glides through turf and sand smoothly, while the putter sports a pure roll insert for a truer, more consistent roll on the greens.
The lightweight carbon shafts on the woods and irons feel stable yet responsive, enabling a faster swing speed without sacrificing control. You’ll be able to generate ample clubhead speed for maximizing distance while still keeping the ball on target. The ladies flex is ideally suited to the average female swing tempo.
While this is an imported set, the quality and performance is on par with what you’d expect from Taylormade. Overall, the RBZSPEEDLITE set is one of the best options for women graduating from beginner sets and looking for better feel, control and distance in a cohesively designed package from a top brand.
Pros
- Speed Pocket technology for faster ball speeds
- Lightweight carbon shafts enable faster swings
- C-grind wedge soles glide through turf and sand
- Pure Roll putter insert for smoother, truer roll
- Well-suited for intermediate skill level
Cons
- Imported set, so quality control may vary
- Lacks adjustability some better players prefer
Taylormade’s RBZSPEEDLITE women’s complete set offers excellent all-around performance for the intermediate female golfer. The cutting-edge technologies, lightweight design and cohesive set configuration promote faster swing speeds, better launch conditions and more consistent distance gapping between clubs – all important factors in shooting lower scores.
#6 - Tour Edge Hot Launch HL-4 Togo – Best for Fast Swingers
During our testing, the Tour Edge Hot Launch HL4 package really impressed me with its exceptional value and performance. When you open the box, you’ll find a well-curated 13-piece set, including a 460cc titanium driver, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, a mallet putter, and a cart bag – everything an intermediate player needs to step up their game.
The oversized driver launches the ball off the tee with ease, and I gained noticeable distance compared to my previous driver. The fairway woods are incredibly forgiving and the low-profile hybrids get the ball airborne effortlessly from any lie. I love how the cavity back irons have an undercut design that produces a higher launch with maximum forgiveness on off-center hits. Even the mallet putter is a great addition, offering excellent alignment assistance and a smooth roll.
Quality components are used throughout, from the high-modulus graphite shafts in the woods to the stainless steel irons. The all-weather grips offer a secure and comfortable feel. I also have to commend the stylish and functional cart bag with its 14-way padded divider top and ample storage pockets. For the price, the overall durability and reliability of this set are fantastic.
Pros
- Excellent forgiveness and playability
- Quality graphite and steel components
- High-launching, distance-enhancing technologies
- Includes well-designed cart bag
- Unbeatable value for the price
Cons
- Mallet putter not for everyone
- May want to add specialty wedges later
If you’re an intermediate golfer looking for a reliable, high-performing complete set at an affordable price point, the Tour Edge Hot Launch HL4 package is one of the best options on the market. With its ideal combination of distance, forgiveness, feel, and quality construction, this set will help you shoot lower scores and have more fun on the course without breaking the bank. I highly recommend giving it a try.
#7 - Callaway Strata – Best Budget-Friendly Option
The Callaway Strata complete 12-piece golf set offers excellent quality and performance that will impress any intermediate golfer. Featuring a lightweight 460cc forged driver with a titanium head, this set provides maximum forgiveness off the tee, allowing you to rip long, straight drives with confidence. The aerodynamic 3-wood launches the ball high and far, while the forgiving 5-hybrid is the perfect alternative to difficult long irons.
The stainless steel 6-9 irons and pitching wedge offer a balanced combination of forgiveness, control and workability that inspires confidence over every approach shot. The precise mallet putter with alignment aid delivers outstanding feel and accuracy on the greens. Everything comes conveniently housed in a lightweight stand bag loaded with ample storage and a comfortable carry strap.
After testing out this set on the course, I was thoroughly impressed by how each club felt in my hands and performed. The clubs are well-crafted with quality components and deliver excellent ball-striking results. Clearly designed with the improving player in mind, this set includes everything needed to shoot low scores and thoroughly enjoy the game.
Pros
- Exceedingly forgiving woods and hybrid
- Well-balanced, workable irons
- Accurate, soft-feeling putter
- High-quality, durable components
- Convenient, feature-rich stand bag
- Very reasonably priced – between $400 for the basic 12-piece set and $600 for the 16-piece Strata Ultimate
Cons
- Driver is not adjustable
- Headcovers only for woods
The Callaway Strata complete set provides tremendous value for any intermediate golfer seeking maximum performance without breaking the bank. The smart combination of distance-enhancing woods, forgiving irons and a premium putter will undoubtedly help you shoot lower scores and get more enjoyment out of every round. If you’re ready to get serious about improving your game, this excellent set belongs at the top of your shopping list.
#8 - Stix Golf 9-Piece Club Set – Best Simplistic Design
This complete set from Strix Golf features premium materials, a modern design and impressive overall quality. It is definitely worth considering if you’re an intermediate golfer.
The driver has a large 460cc titanium head for maximum forgiveness and distance off the tee. The 3-wood is equally forgiving and launches the ball high with low spin. In the irons, you get a 5-PW set with cavity backs and wide soles that help get the ball airborne. The sand wedge has a versatile grind for handling bunker shots and pitches around the green.
What really stands out is how cohesive and well-balanced this set feels. Each club seems perfectly gapped and weighted for seamless transitions. The graphite shafts are lightweight yet stable. And the all-black finish gives the clubs a sleek, stealthy look at address.
One of the biggest selling points of the Stix set is the attractive price point. For well under $1000, you’re getting a high-performance set that can rival big-name brands. Stix has cut out the middleman and invested those savings into top-grade components.
Pros
- Premium materials throughout the set
- Forgiving, easy-to-hit woods and irons
- Cohesive gapping and weighting
- Excellent value for the price
- Sleek, modern aesthetics
Cons
- Doesn’t include a sand/lob wedge
- No women’s/senior flex shaft options
All in all, the Stix 9 Club Set is an ideal choice for the intermediate golfer ready to invest in their game and shoot lower scores. The combination of cutting-edge design, quality craftsmanship, and affordable price make this one of the best deals in the golf club set market today. If this sounds like the right set for your needs, go ahead and add it to your bag.
Buying guide – Things to Consider While Choosing a Golf Club Set as an Intermediate Golfer
As an intermediate golfer, your skills have developed beyond the beginner stage, and you now require equipment that can match and enhance your abilities.
This guide will help you understand the key factors to consider when choosing a golf club set for intermediate-level play.
Set Composition
The composition of your set should reflect your improved skills and strategic needs. A complete set for an intermediate player typically includes a driver, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges, and a putter.
Consider a 460cc driver with adjustable features, fairway woods (usually a 3-wood and possibly a 5-wood) and hybrids to replace long irons.
Your iron set might range from 5-9 or 4-9, depending on hybrid inclusion. For wedges, look beyond just the pitching and sand wedges; consider adding gap or lob wedges for increased versatility around the greens.
As an intermediate player, you might benefit from a more specialized putter that suits your stroke style. Ensure each club in the set serves a specific purpose in your game, avoiding unnecessary overlap in distances.
Customization Options
Modern clubs, especially at the intermediate level, offer various customization features that can significantly benefit your game. Look for drivers and fairway woods with adjustable loft, lie angle and weighting.
These features allow you to fine-tune your clubs to suit different course conditions or as your swing evolves. Some sets offer interchangeable shafts, providing flexibility as your swing speed changes. Adjustable hosels on irons can allow for minor tweaks in loft and lie angle, helping you optimize ball flight.
Check how these customization options align with your game improvement goals and your willingness to experiment with your equipment.
Shaft Options & Clubhead Design
Shaft selection becomes more critical at the intermediate level. Consider the material – graphite shafts are lighter and offer more flex, while steel shafts provide more control. Many intermediate players prefer graphite for woods and hybrids, and steel for irons. Ensure the flex matches your swing speed, with options typically including regular, stiff, and extra stiff for faster swingers.
For clubhead design, seek a balance between game-improvement features and player’s iron characteristics. Look for irons with perimeter weighting and slightly wider soles for forgiveness, but with thinner toplines and less offset for improved control. In woods and hybrids, aim for a balance between forgiveness and workability.
Fitting
Professional fitting is highly recommended for intermediate players. A fitting session can help determine the ideal club length, lie angle, loft, and shaft for your swing.
Custom fitting (costing between $100 and $500) ensures your clubs complement your physical attributes and swing characteristics. Many retailers offer fitting services, often free with purchase.
Consider dynamic fitting, which analyzes your swing with launch monitors for more precise recommendations. Proper fitting can significantly improve your comfort, consistency and overall performance on the course.
Versatility
As an intermediate player, you’re likely developing shot-shaping abilities and adapting to various course conditions. Look for clubs that allow for shot variety, enabling you to hit draws, fades and control trajectory.
Your wedges should offer versatility for different types of chip and pitch shots. Ensure your set can handle a range of course conditions, from links-style to parkland courses.
Understanding the different types of golf clubs will be crucial as you progress through your golfing journey. This will allow you to adapt your equipment to different playing situations and become a more well-rounded golfer.
Price Point
Intermediate sets represent a significant investment, so it’s important to set a realistic budget. Quality intermediate sets typically range from $1000 to $2500 or more. Balance cost with long-term value, considering that more expensive sets often offer better technology and materials, potentially lasting longer as your skills improve.
You might consider purchasing the previous year’s models for cost savings without significant technology trade-offs. Factor in potential additional costs like fitting fees or future upgrades to individual clubs.
Remember, investing in the right set of clubs can significantly enhance your enjoyment and performance on the course, making it a worthwhile expenditure for dedicated intermediate players.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right golf clubs as an intermediate player is crucial for improving your game. The Cobra Fly XL stands out as the best overall option, balancing performance and affordability.
Those with a bigger budget may prefer the TaylorMade RBZ complete set, while the Strata options cater to budget-conscious golfers, although they may be outgrown quickly. When making your decision, it’s helpful to explore various golf equipment manufacturers to find the best fit for your needs.
Ultimately, the final decision depends on your skill level, playing style and budget. By considering these factors and the factors provided in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make the best choice.
Please leave any comments or questions you might have in the comments section below.
Happy golfing!
