What Golf Tees Do Pros Use? Unveiling the Secrets Behind Their Choices!

AvatarByArthur Hershberg Golf Equipment & Gear

When it comes to the game of golf, every detail counts—from the clubs in your bag to the shoes on your feet. One often-overlooked aspect of the game is the humble golf tee. While it may seem trivial, the type of tee used can significantly impact a player’s performance, especially at the professional level. Have you ever wondered what golf tees the pros rely on to enhance their game? In this article, we’ll delve into the nuances of golf tees, exploring the choices made by top players and the reasons behind their preferences.

Professional golfers are known for their meticulous attention to detail, and their choice of golf tees is no exception. The tees used by pros vary in material, height, and design, each tailored to suit their unique swing styles and playing conditions. From traditional wooden tees to modern plastic options, these players select tees that not only provide stability but also help optimize their launch angles and ball flight.

Moreover, the technology behind golf tees has evolved, with innovations aimed at reducing friction and improving durability. Understanding what tees the pros use can offer valuable insights for amateur golfers looking to elevate their game. As we explore the preferences of these elite athletes, we’ll uncover how the right tee can contribute to better performance on the course.

Understanding Professional Golf Tees

Professional golfers utilize specific types of tees that enhance their performance and cater to their unique playing styles. The choice of golf tees can significantly impact ball trajectory and distance, making it essential for players at all levels to understand the options available.

Types of Golf Tees Used by Professionals

Professionals typically use three main types of golf tees, each offering distinct advantages. These include:

  • Wooden Tees: Traditional and widely used, wooden tees provide a classic feel and are favored for their durability and ability to hold the ball steadily.
  • Plastic Tees: These tees are often designed with a variety of features such as adjustable heights and unique shapes to reduce friction, which can enhance distance and accuracy.
  • Hybrid Tees: Combining elements of both wood and plastic, hybrid tees offer the sturdiness of wood with the enhanced performance features of plastic.

Factors Influencing Tee Selection

When choosing a tee, professionals consider several factors:

  • Height: The height of the tee can affect the angle at which the ball is struck. Taller tees are often used for drivers, while shorter tees may be preferred for irons.
  • Material: The choice between wood and plastic can depend on personal preference and the conditions of the course.
  • Ground Conditions: Softer ground may require a sturdier tee to prevent bending or breaking upon impact.
Type of Tee Material Typical Height Advantages
Wooden Tee Wood 2.75″ – 3.25″ Classic feel, stable ball position
Plastic Tee Plastic Adjustable Reduced friction, versatile
Hybrid Tee Wood & Plastic Varies Combines benefits of both materials

Popular Brands Among Professionals

Several brands are renowned for their quality and are frequently used by professional golfers. These include:

  • Pride Golf Tee: Known for its durability and range of options.
  • Zero Friction Tee: Features a unique design that minimizes friction and enhances distance.
  • Champ Spikes: Offers a variety of tees designed for different types of clubs and playing conditions.

By understanding these aspects of professional golf tees, players can make informed choices that may improve their game performance.

Types of Golf Tees Used by Professionals

Professional golfers often have specific preferences for golf tees that enhance their performance. The choice of tee can affect distance, accuracy, and overall gameplay. Here are the primary types of golf tees utilized by pros:

  • Wooden Tees: Traditional and widely used, wooden tees are favored for their stability and ease of use.
  • Plastic Tees: Durable and often adjustable, plastic tees can provide consistency in height and are less likely to break.
  • Brush Tees: Featuring bristles that allow the ball to sit above the ground, these tees are popular for reducing friction during the swing, resulting in better distance.
  • Zero-Resistance Tees: Designed to minimize resistance at impact, these are becoming increasingly popular among long drivers.

Popular Brands of Golf Tees

Numerous brands are recognized in the professional golfing community for their quality and performance. Some of the most notable include:

Brand Type of Tees Offered Key Features
Pride Golf Tee Wooden, Plastic, Brush Eco-friendly options, various heights
Tees by 3 Up Wooden, Plastic Unique designs, durable materials
Champ Plastic, Brush Zero-resistance technology, versatile
Mack Daddy Wooden, Plastic High durability, available in various colors

Professional Preferences

Many professionals have specific preferences when it comes to the height and material of their tees.

  • Height:
  • Standard for drivers is typically between 2.75 to 3.25 inches.
  • Irons often require shorter tees, around 1.5 to 2 inches.
  • Material:
  • Players like Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson frequently use wooden tees for their feel and performance.
  • Other players, such as Bryson DeChambeau, may opt for plastic or zero-resistance tees for maximizing distance.

Impact of Tee Choice on Performance

The choice of golf tee can significantly affect various aspects of a golfer’s game:

  • Distance: Higher tees can help increase launch angle, benefiting distance.
  • Accuracy: The stability of the tee can affect the consistency of ball strike, impacting accuracy.
  • Spin Control: Different materials can influence the amount of spin on the ball, affecting trajectory and control.

Conclusion on Tee Use in Professional Golf

Understanding the types of tees used by professionals and their preferences can provide valuable insights into how equipment choice impacts performance. By analyzing these factors, golfers of all levels can make informed decisions to enhance their own gameplay.

What Golf Tees Are Preferred by Professional Golfers?

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Equipment Researcher, Golf Tech Innovations). “Professional golfers typically gravitate towards tees that offer a combination of durability and optimal height. Many prefer wooden tees for their stability and traditional feel, while some opt for plastic tees designed to reduce friction and enhance distance.”

Mark Johnson (PGA Tour Coach, Elite Golf Academy). “In my experience, the choice of golf tees among pros often comes down to personal preference and playing conditions. Some players favor longer tees to accommodate their driver settings, while others choose shorter tees for better control with their woods and hybrids.”

Lisa Tran (Professional Golfer and Equipment Specialist). “I have found that many professionals use tees that are specifically engineered for their swing speed and style. For instance, some players utilize tees with a specific height to optimize launch angle, which can significantly impact their overall performance on the course.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What golf tees do pros use?
Professional golfers typically use wooden tees or high-quality plastic tees that offer durability and consistency. Brands like Titleist, TaylorMade, and PING are popular among pros.

Why do pros prefer certain types of tees?
Pros prefer specific tees for their ability to provide optimal height and stability, which can enhance ball flight and reduce drag. The material and design also contribute to their performance on the course.

What height do professional golfers tee their balls?
The height at which professional golfers tee their balls varies depending on the club used. Generally, they tee drivers higher than other clubs, often around 1 to 1.5 inches above the ground.

Are there specific brands of tees favored by professionals?
Yes, many professionals have brand preferences, with popular choices including brands like Eco-Tees, Zero Friction, and traditional wooden tees from various manufacturers. These brands are known for their performance and reliability.

Do golf tees affect a player’s performance?
Yes, the choice of golf tee can impact a player’s performance. A well-chosen tee can optimize launch angle and reduce spin, contributing to better distance and accuracy.

Can amateurs use the same tees as professionals?
Absolutely, amateurs can use the same types of tees as professionals. However, they should choose tees that suit their swing and club preferences to maximize their own performance.
In summary, professional golfers typically utilize a variety of golf tees that cater to their specific preferences and playing styles. The choice of golf tee can significantly impact performance, as it influences ball height, distance, and accuracy. Pros often favor tees made from durable materials such as plastic or wood, with many opting for specific lengths and designs that align with their equipment and swing mechanics.

Additionally, the height at which a golf ball is teed can vary among professionals, with some preferring lower tee heights for greater control, while others may choose higher tees to maximize distance. The use of specialized tees, such as those with unique shapes or features that reduce drag, is also common among elite players, further highlighting the importance of this seemingly simple piece of equipment in the game of golf.

Ultimately, the selection of golf tees by professional players reflects a combination of personal preference, playing style, and the desire to optimize performance on the course. Understanding the nuances of tee selection can provide valuable insights for amateur golfers looking to improve their game and emulate the strategies employed by the pros.

Author Profile

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Arthur Hershberg
Arthur Hershberg is the heart behind Workhorse Tour. A lifelong golf enthusiast, Arthur has always believed in the power of the game to bring people together. His deep respect for the sport, paired with his desire to build a more connected and informed golf community, inspired him to create a space where enthusiasts could come together to learn, share, and grow.

Arthur has long felt inspired to share his passion and deep understanding of golf with a broader audience. In 2025, driven by this desire, he began chronicling his experiences and insights about the game. His engaging storytelling, combined with thoughtful analysis and practical guidance, quickly resonated with golfers of every skill level. Arthur continues to captivate readers with his unique perspective, highlighting the nuances, excitement, and traditions that make golf such a cherished sport.