How I Built My Golf Simulator
In today’s post, I’ll be giving you all the resources that I used to build my golf simulator that I build and tare down every winter to teach on.
It’s amazing to think how much more accessible the technology is to the average golfer now then it use to be. Back in the day, only Tour Pros and high end clubs had access to launch monitor technology.
Now, you can buy an extremely accurate launch monitor for around $3,000. Something that used to be closer to $25,000.
I would encourage anyone in winter climates to seriously consider making the investment into a simple indoor hitting station. You don’t have to break the bank to make it happen. But, if you’re into breaking the bank, then be my guest and please invite me over to see your new hitting area!
Alright, with that being said, here are the resources I used for my setup.
Where I Purchased Most of the Items
When I first started looking for a system to use, I stumbled across Carl’s Place, an online retailer that specializes in home and commercial golf simulator setups.
They are an incredible resource for everything Golf Simulator. You can purchase everything you need straight from their website. On top of that, you can customize your hitting enclosure to fit your space and they’ll simply build it and send you everything you need.
I was so impressed with them, that I became an affiliate with their company so I could help promote what they do. And honestly, I don’t sign up to represent just anyone, only the businesses I believe in.
Launch Monitor
The launch monitor is the piece of equipment that tracks the golf ball and predicts what the golf ball would actually do in real life. Some systems even track the club face and club path with a whole bunch of other metrics.
The launch monitor I chose was the FlightScope Mevo+. I purchased it in 2022, and since then they’ve updated it to include Fusion Tracking. Here’s their newest model.
I’ve been really impressed with this launch monitor. It’s extremely accurate indoors and is easy to use. In my opinion, it’s definitely the best value and bang for your buck monitor on the market today.
Plus, I get to use it outside during the golf season for my own game and any lessons that require it. Win/win.
Hitting Enclosure
My enclosure Is pretty large because I wanted to protect from any possible mis-hits. I went with their Pro Enclosure system which requires 2” EMT pipe.
You have a couple of options here.
First, you can order one of their pre-built size kits. This works well if you don’t have to have it fit perfectly and maximize space. Or, maybe they have a size that does fit your space perfectly.
Second, you can custom design the enclose to perfectly fit your space straight from their website. It’s extremely easy to do, you’ll just have to measure your room and input the numbers.
You can have them cut and send you the pipe, or since they send you the cut sheet with your enclosure, you can go to your local big box store and buy it yourself and save yourself a boatload of cash on shipping.
The enclosure comes with the fabric, pipe (optional), bungees, hitting projector screen and brackets you’ll need for assembly. And I must admit, it is incredible quality. You aren’t getting anything cheaply made.
Projector
I wanted a really good projector since I was using the simulator for my business. On top of that, the space I teach in has a lot of ambient light so I needed a bright projector.
This is the one I went with: BenQ LU710
Now, they have even nicer ones that do a better job. If I was upgrading today, then I would go with one of these two:
The keys to look for when you’re choosing a projector is the brightness and the throw distance. If you have a really dark room, then you can get by without needing a really bright projector.
If you have a short room, you’ll need a short throw projector. In which case, make sure you measure twice and do you research before making the purchase.
Here’s a great calculator to help you decide if you’re choosing the correct projector.
Hitting Mat
I’ve been really pleased with the Player Preffered Series Studio Golf Mat by Fiberbuilt. It’s pricey, but holds up well and is really easy to instal.
Enclosure Turf and Mats
To make sure the hitting mat was the same level as the enclosure, I had to buy some 1” gym mats from Amazon. These help raise the turf inside the enclosure so everything was on the same level. Another added benefit was how the mats helps happen the sound of the golf balls landing on the floor.
I was fortunate enough to have a friend who had leftover turf from their home putting green instal. I got it from him for a great deal and it’s worked out perfectly.
Software
The FlightScope Mevo+ does come with software that you can use, but it only has a driving range and no courses.
If you’re looking for the best golf course simulation software, then go with GSPro!
It’s by far the best simulation software I’ve seen so far. It’s literally got hundreds of great golf courses and it’s constantly being updated with new ones. It’s on an open platform which means designers all over the world are building out golf courses and uploading them to the platform for users to use.
Computer
I know nothing about computers when it comes storage and all of that. Fortunately, I have a brother who does know about these things and he sent me to Newegg.com for this gaming computer. It’s worked perfectly and I haven’t had any problems.
In Conclusion
In total, my entire system cost around $14,000. It’s an incredible investment and I can say enough good things about the quality of product Carl’s Place is pumping out.
If you have any questions, feel free to comment below. Also, another great resource is Golf Simulator Videos on YouTube. This channel really answered a lot of my questions.
To finish things off, some people think they don’t have enough space. All I’ll say is don’t be afraid to get creative. I’ve seen very minimal simulator setups that only require a launch monitor, a net, a TV, and a hitting mat. The possibilities are nearly endless. Good luck!
DISCLAIMER
There are affiliate links in this post and on my website. I may make commissions from these links if you follow them and make a purchase within a certain time period. This doesn’t cost you anything, but it does help me keep producing great content for you!
