The Rules of Golf specify the equipment which may be used to play the game. These specifications can be found in Rule 4 and Appendix II for golf clubs and Rule 5 and Appendix III for golf balls. Other equipment and devices, e.g. gloves, tees, electronic devices, etc., are covered by Rule 11 (Teeing Ground), the definition of a "tee", and Rule 14-3 (Artificial Devices and Unusual Equipment).

Additional information and clarification of these Rules and specifications can be found in the relevant sections of Decisions on the Rules of Golf (available from The R&A Shop) and A Guide to the Rules on Clubs and Balls (available as a Download).

In order for The R&A to render a formal ruling on any item of golf equipment, a sample needs to be submitted for examination. For further information about submissions and the submissions procedures, visit the relevant section of the website.  Manufacturers may appeal decisions that have been made on Club and Other Equipment submissions. For information on Appeals, visit the Appeals page.