Is 85 a Good Golf Score?

If you’ve ever shot an 85 on a par-72 course, you’ve likely wondered where you stand. For most amateur golfers, 85 is a solid score—well above the average. According to data from the National Golf Foundation, the average score for recreational golfers hovers around 100. So yes, 85 is a good golf score. But let’s dig deeper into what that number really means and how it compares to related scores like 80, 84, 86, and 90.

Understanding What a Good Golf Score Means

A “good” golf score is relative to your skill level and the difficulty of the course. For a scratch golfer (someone who plays to a 0 handicap), 85 would be a bad day. For a high-handicapper, 85 might be a personal best. But in the broader amateur world, breaking 90 is a milestone, and 85 puts you comfortably in the “better than average” category. Handicap systems can help: an 85 on a standard course roughly corresponds to a handicap of around 13-15. That’s respectable.

How Does 85 Compare to Other Scores?

Let’s put 85 in context with common scores you might hear about:

• —Is 86 a good golf score? Yes, 86 is also very good. It’s just one stroke more, so the same logic applies. It likely puts you in the top 20-30% of all recreational golfers.
• —Is 80 a good golf score? Absolutely. Breaking 80 is a major achievement and usually requires consistent ball-striking, short game, and putting. An 80 is significantly harder than an 85—it’s the difference between a few bad holes and a near-flawless round.
• —Is 90 a good golf score? For many, 90 is the barrier. Breaking 90 is a common goal. So 90 is decent, but 85 is clearly better. The gap between 90 and 85 is usually about eliminating doubles or better course management.
• —Is an 84 in golf good? Yes, 84 is excellent. It’s similar to 85 but often seen as a more impressive round because it’s just above the 80s threshold. Many golfers would be thrilled with an 84.

In short, scores in the mid-80s are solid for amateur play. They indicate you’re beyond the beginner stage and have a functional game.

What to Consider Before Buying Score-Improving Gear

If you’re shooting 85 and want to go lower, equipment can help—but only if chosen wisely. Before buying any training aids, clubs, or accessories, consider:

1. Your Weaknesses: Analyze your round. Is it penalty strokes off the tee? Three-putts? Missed greens? Choose gear that addresses that. For example, a putting mirror or alignment sticks can be more effective than a new driver.
2. Fit Over Hype: Generic “game improvement” clubs may not suit your swing. If possible, get fitted. Many retailers offer free basic fitting with purchase.
3. Budget: You don’t need to spend thousands. A quality used set or a single training tool can yield results without breaking the bank.
4. Commitment: No piece of gear fixes a lack of practice. Be realistic about how much you’ll use it.

When browsing Amazon, look for highly-rated training aids from brands like SKLZ, The Putting Arc, or Orange Whip. But always read recent reviews and consider return policies. Remember: the best investment is often lessons or practice time.

Tips for Breaking 80 Consistently

If you’re already shooting 85, shaving those last strokes to break 80 requires a focused approach:

• —Eliminate Big Numbers: Triple bogeys kill a score. Aim for bogey at worst on tough holes. Play smarter—lay up rather than risk water.
• —Short Game Matters: Practice chipping and putting. Losing strokes from inside 100 yards is common for mid-80s shooters.
• —Course Management: Know your 150-yard club and play to safe zones. Hit irons off tight fairways instead of driver.
• —Keep Stats: Track fairways hit, greens in regulation, and putts. Identify patterns.
• —Stay Patient: Breaking 80 often requires a near-perfect round. Don’t get discouraged by a bad hole.

FAQ

What is a good golf score for an average amateur?

For most amateur golfers, a good score is around 90-100. Breaking 100 is the first big target, then 90. A score of 85 is above average and indicates you’re in the top tier of casual players.

Is 85 a good score for a weekend golfer?

Yes. A weekend golfer who shoots 85 is playing very well. Most weekend players average between 95-105. If you’re shooting 85, you’re likely playing consistently and have a solid grasp of the game.

How many strokes can I realistically shave off 85?

That depends on your current weaknesses. Many mid-80s golfers can drop 3-5 strokes by reducing mistakes (penalties, three-putts). With dedicated practice and perhaps a few lessons, getting to 80 or even high 70s is achievable within a season.

In conclusion, 85 is a good golf score—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. It means you’re playing well above the average recreational golfer. Focus on consistent practice, smart equipment choices, and course management, and you’ll keep dropping those numbers.