The term 'woods' doesn't make as much sense as it used to, since more and more woods are actually made of metal, graphite, or other materials. Essentially, a wood is any club with a large, wide head instead of a skinny blade. They come in all shapes and sizes. The basic wood is the driver. It's the power club designed to send the ball sailing several hundred yards down the fairway. If you'd like, you can think of it as a number one wood. Other woods can range from number two to seven. As the numbers get bigger, the slant on the club face becomes more pronounced, and the ball will have more loft and less distance. Many female golfers substitute four and five woods for the two and three irons. When a wood club head strikes the ball, the greater mass provides extra power. Beyond the tee, anything besides your driver is called a 'fairway wood.' Use them whenever possible. Assuming you've practiced until you have a smooth stroke, they'll give you greater control over your shots.
