Yawn... seriously - don't spend more then $2-300 on your first set. Go to MC sports, or some sports-o-rama palce and get a Tommy Armour III, cavity back with regular flex shafts. It's not worth it to spend anything more than that on your first set. Then go to Meijer and buy a 460cc Driver for $20 and you'll be set. I wouldn't even bother with golf shoes for starting unless you can get a cheapy set for $20 or so.
After that yeah you'll need to go to the driving range a lot - and go with someone who knows how to golf and can give you pointers. Learn a grip and momentum in a swing first. I can't tell you not to overdue it b/c I know you'll swing like Tiger a few times to see how far you can hit it - and thats fine. You gotta learn mechanics.
I don't think you need to worry about what kind of golf ball you play with either. I would start off with a pinnacle 3pc ball. They are like $15-20 for 18? You'll lose them so don't worry none. Or the Nike Mojo - I use those in a scramble sometimes
I worked in a private proshop last year and know far more than is necessary to swing a club. I've been playing the same irons I've had since I played in high school - mainly b/c they were custom fit to me, and you can't buy them anymore b/c its a health hazard
lol GJ ping for using copper & beryllium. I've gone through a few drivers, and actually gave 2 of mine away last year to kids at the course. Oh you'll need a putter too - get some knock off brand of a 2 ball mallet putter. If you google search it you'll know what I'm talking about. Check craigslist or what not - but don't invest any substantial amount for your first go round.Woot woot - geek golf talk - Who's excited about the 2nd yr pricing of the Titleist AP2 irons w/ Project X rifle shafts & Winn oversize grips
I could pickup a custom set for around $900 thinking about doing that and retiring these Ping ISI BeCu Irons. Want to send them back to Karsten, AZ and have them refinished and them put in a case and lock em up. The pro at the golf course last year thought I was stupid for still playing with them.
Its not winter it was 70 and sunny the last 2 days (I played golf yesterday)