With new clubs arriving on the market in the new year, there’s always a natural curiosity about how new clubs might benefit your game. Will you hit it straighter? Further?

But the overarching question is this—when is the right time to swap out your clubs (either your driver or irons) and switch them up for something newer? You’re certainly making an investment in your game, so you’re going to want to ensure you get the most out of the money you are spending.

Typically, a golfer will switch out their irons after a handful of seasons, while they often change their driver more frequently. Depending on how often you play or practice, you’ll need to switch out your wedges every couple of seasons.

When considering the right time for a switch, think about where you fit into these categories:

Early adopter

Are you the golfer who wanted the adjustable driver as soon as it hit the market? Are you constantly hitting demo days and swapping out clubs to see if there’s something out there that can impact your game? If that’s the case, then the time to grab some new clubs is, well, now. What’s that you say? You were already in the process of adding some new wedges into your bag and you’ve got a set of the new Callaway Rougue ST irons to replace the versions you’ve had in play for the last season?

Mix and match bag

We’ve all met them—the golfer who left their 7-iron somewhere on a trip to Myrtle Beach and bought a replacement that isn’t the same brand. And yes, you bought your clubs at a garage sale in the first place. If this is you, then there’s no time like the present to consider switching to a new set of clubs. You’ll gain significant benefits, especially if you’ve never been fit for your swing. Which brings us to the next category…

Never been fit

Many golfers—even strong low-handicap players—have never been fit. If your clubs weren’t customized for your swing, you’re likely losing some accuracy and distance. Getting fit and purchasing new clubs go hand-in-hand. After all, would you buy a pair of shoes without trying them on and taking a walk up the aisle? The same is true for clubs—get a new driver, and ensure it is right for you.

Seeking a change

Has it been four or five years since you last purchased a set of irons? Are you still a good player, but could use a little help? Then maybe it is time to consider making a switch. A lot of better players could benefit from two of the key factors in new irons—distance and height. If you’re a good player but have lost a little distance, there are plenty of options