Men's steel golf clubs. Too short?

PING suggests adding a length to standard, with a lie angle that's .75* more upright.

link to an image: https://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=AqwQZBjp7zxcU...

Tom Wishon is pretty close, suggesting a 38.75" 5i. Unlike PING, Wishon doesn't like to get into lie angles in a static measurement; he prefers (and I agree) doing it dynamically, while you're hitting balls.

There's a couple of caveats, though:

1. What is "standard"? Every OEM and clubmaker is free to make their clubs to their own "standard"- be it length, loft, lie angle, grip size, etc. Taylormade is notorious for making clubs on the long end... it might be a bad idea to add 1" to a 5i that's already 38.5" or longer. Independent clubmakers have much more freedom in this area, though, so there can be less confusion in this area when working with one.

2. Don't get too caught up in static length and lie angle measurements. They can work if it's just not feasible to see a fitter in person, but their best use is as a starting point, to prevent having to go through a myriad of different options. If you're a strong ball-striker, you may actually end up in a length longer than your static recommendation. If you're a weaker ball-striker, you may end up in a shorter length (though a new set of issues comes up: having short irons/wedges that are too short for your frame). Don't worry though: the fitter has more freedom. Maybe using 3/8" gaps in the long irons, but switching to .5" gaps for the short irons. The long irons are short enough to use effectively, but the short irons aren't so short you're forced into a bad setup position and/or swing.

Graphite shafts are always offered ~1" longer than steel shafts. The reason for this is swingweight. Most off-the-rack graphite shaft offerings are lighter than their steel counterparts. The extra length in graphite allows the manufacturer to maintain a constant swing weight (head heft) between the two offerings without having to create a separate set of dies to create heavier heads just for use with graphite shafts (very costly, for them and us).

I commend you for making the decision to see the fitter. From my computer, I can throw out numbers and offer suggestions. I can arm you with knowledge. The fitter, with the one-on-one relationship you'll have, will be able to get the exact length, lie angle, grip size, etc. that will work for your swing and body type. All I have left to say is: go in with an open mind. The fitter will do his/her best to get you into a set that will allow you to get the most out of your gear, but if it sounds counterintuitive, rest assured s/he likely has a reason for it. Don't be afraid to ask questions- you're the customer amd it's your hard-earned money, after all. But don't close yourself off to avenues before trying them.