In golf, the term "woods" traditionally refers to a specific type of golf club, although modern golf club design has evolved, and the terminology has changed somewhat. Traditionally, woods were made of wood, usually persimmon, but nowadays, they are typically made of metal or composite materials.
The two main types of golf clubs that fall under the category of "woods" are:
Driver (1-Wood): The driver is the longest and lowest-lofted club in a golfer's bag. It is designed for maximum distance off the tee, allowing golfers to hit the ball as far as possible. The head of a driver is usually the largest among all golf clubs.
Fairway Woods (3-Wood, 5-Wood, etc.): Fairway woods have higher lofts than drivers and are used for shots from the fairway or rough. They are designed to provide both distance and accuracy and are often used when a golfer needs to cover a significant distance but doesn't require the maximum distance of a driver. Additionally, advancements in club materials and designs have led to the development of hybrid clubs, which combine characteristics of both irons and woods, providing versatility and ease of use.
When choosing golf clubs, including woods, golfers consider factors such as loft, shaft flex, and clubhead design to match their playing style and preferences. The selection of woods depends on the golfer's skill level, the golf course they are playing, and the specific shots they need to make during a round.