Ask most golfers where their ball marker is and they'll pat three pockets before finding a 2p coin. It's the smallest bit of kit in the bag, and the one you use on nearly every green. So it's worth getting one you like. Here's what it's for, what the rules actually say, and what we'd look for.
What's a golf ball marker for?
On the green you'll pick your ball up all the time: to wipe the mud off, to line up the logo, or because it's sitting on someone's line. The marker shows exactly where it was, so it goes back in the same spot. That's it. Simple job, but get it wrong and it costs you a shot.
What the Rules of Golf say
The short version of Rule 14.1, in plain English:
- Mark it before you lift it. If the ball has to go back in the same place, mark it first. Lift it without marking and that's a one-stroke penalty.
- Put it right behind or right next to the ball. Not a few inches away, and not wherever's convenient.
- Any small artificial object counts. A coin, a tee or a proper marker are all fine. A leaf or a bit of twig isn't.
- Moving it out of someone's line. If your marker's in a playing partner's way, move it a clubhead length to the side. Then (the bit everyone forgets) move it back before you replace your ball.
If you want the exact wording, the R&A publishes the full Rules of Golf for free.
The main types, and what they're like to live with
| Type | Why people like it | The catch |
|---|---|---|
| A coin | Always in your pocket | Easy to lose, hard to spot on a dark green |
| Flat metal disc | Cheap, classic, easy to see | Rattles around loose with your tees |
| Magnetic marker with divot tool | Two jobs in one, and the marker can't go walkabout | A touch bulkier |
| Hat clip marker | Lives on your cap | No good if you don't wear one |
| Personalised marker | Great for gifts, golf days and society prizes | You'll wait a little for engraving |
Why we rate the marker-and-divot-tool combo
You're supposed to fix your pitch mark on every green, and you'll need a marker on most of them. Having both in one tool means one thing in your pocket instead of two. The magnet keeps the marker seated, so it doesn't drop out on the 14th and get lost forever. That's exactly how our Tiger ball marker and divot tool works, and it's what we carry ourselves.
You'll find it alongside tees and gloves in our golf accessories, and if you're stocking up on the basics, our 83mm bamboo tees are the other thing every golfer runs out of.
A ball marker makes a surprisingly good present
It's useful whatever someone's handicap, there's no size to guess, and it fits in a stocking or a card. If you're after small ideas, have a look at our golf stocking fillers and Secret Santa ideas or golf gifts under £20. For something bigger, every one of our golf mystery boxes can include a marker along with balls, a glove and tees.
Quick questions
Can I use a coin as a ball marker?
Yes. Any small artificial object is fine, so a coin's perfectly legal. A proper marker is just easier to find and easier for everyone to see.
Is there a maximum size?
The rules don't set a strict size, but a marker shouldn't be big enough to get in anyone's way. Most are around 2–3cm across.
What if I forget to mark my ball?
Lifting a ball on the green without marking it is a one-stroke penalty, and you put the ball back where it was.