Finding the right solution for hitting long approach shots can be challenging. But if longer irons and even some of the best hybrids seem a little daunting behind the ball, lofted fairway woods could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Callaway has just launched its Quantum Mini Spinner - designed specifically for golfers seeking more spin, control, and confidence on long approach shots, and I took it out both on the golf course and into the Golf Monthly performance lab to analyse its performance.

The Mini Spinner is available in a few loft options - 7-wood (21°) and 9-wood (24°) as well as 11-wood (27° - US only).

Straight out of the headcover, the sole of the Quantum Mini Spinner looks absolutely superb, offering a premium, technical aesthetic that boasts shelf appeal. However, when I set it down behind the ball, I’ll admit, I was slightly underwhelmed. I feel as though the crown not being the same carbon used on the rest of the Quantum range cheapens the appearance slightly, and I would have loved to have seen some continuity within the family.

That said, the footprint itself is very confidence-inspiring and will appeal to those who struggle to look down on a long iron with little loft. The taller, deep face raises the CG location, which helps generate spin, while providing a reassuring visual, and it looks like a club that wants to dig the ball out of tricky lies.

Where the Quantum Mini Spinner truly shines is in its performance, heavily driven by its unique engineering. One of the most noticeable differences is the playing length, where the 7-wood I tested measured 0.75 inches shorter than the Quantum Max 7-wood. This shorter shaft length will help a lot of golfers find the strike better and trap the ball nicely against the turf for a crisp strike.

The turf interaction was another standout feature, and the Step Sole design has been refined specifically for this model to minimize turf drag and see the leading edge enter and exit the ground quickly. I found this promoted exceptionally clean strikes, ensuring consistent center-face contact even when I thought I’d caught the ball a little heavy - something some of the most forgiving fairway woods emulate.

However, the real secret sauce here is the internal weighting and face design, where Callaway has utilized a lightweight carbon sole (in the 7W-9W models) to reposition mass higher in the head.

This higher center of gravity, paired with an Ai-optimized high-spin face, is entirely geared towards an Optimized Spin Construction. The result? I experienced a noticeable increase in spin, phenomenal stopping power, and a much tighter dispersion than I would typically see with a standard hybrid or long iron.

To quantify the performance benefits, I took the 21° Mini Spinner into the Golf Monthly Performance Lab and hit it on our Foresight GC3 launch monitor, comparing it directly against the 22° Callaway Quantum 5-iron.

Despite being just one degree stronger in loft, the Mini Spinner generated over 10 mph more ball speed, launching 5 degrees higher. Crucially, the spin rate jumped by nearly 1,000 rpm compared to the 5-iron, resulting in a towering peak height of 131 feet.

This was something I also noticed on the golf course, and despite the firm greens here in the UK, the ball was coming down so steep, holding the greens was no issue. Hitting a 213-yard carry shot that lands softly enough to hold a firm green is a game-changer for long par-4s and reaching par-5s in two.

The Callaway Quantum Mini Spinner does exactly what it says on the tin, and I think this could be a serious game-changer for many amateur golfers. While I would have loved to see a carbon crown to match the premium aesthetics of the sole, the performance is seriously impressive.

By combining a shorter shaft, a deeper face for performance from the rough, and a high-CG design, Callaway has created a seriously versatile club that I think will replace many long irons and hybrids this season.

It seems even the best lightweight golf bag designs always have some trade-off in pursuit of an elusive featherweight build. Whether that's getting rid of a full-length apparel pocket like on the Ping Moonlander, getting a little crowded with all 14 clubs like on the Vessel Sunday III, or not having premium touches like magnetic pockets like on the Ogio Featherlite, it always feels like golfers have to give up something in favour of that lightweight, comfortable carry bag.

It appears the designers at Sun Mountain have noticed this and set about creating a bag with no compromise. After a few months of testing, I'm pleased to report the new Eclipse 1.5 is the sort of 'have your cake and eat it' stand bag that keen walking golfers have all been waiting for.

The Eclipse 1.5, as the name nearly alludes to, is just 1.65kg (3.5lbs), ascending it to the very top of the table in terms of a lightweight build. But, it's not a small bag. Far bigger than the best Sunday bags but only a fraction heavier, it has a full-length apparel pocket, a quick-access magnetic front pocket (one that I've used for my rangefinder) and a deep front ball pocket. These are just three of the seven in total, offering more than enough storage even for the least frugal walking golfer.

The TaylorMade FlexTech Superlite is very similar in terms of weight, but doesn't come anywhere near it from a style and practicality point of view. The Eclipse 1.5 utilises a very smart and highly durable Cordura nylon ripstop fabric that adds a rugged feel and look to the smart overall profile. Thin though the material is, once you get a feel for it you get a real sense of durability.

The minimalism of the overall design is a huge plus point for me too. Very little branding can be found on the bag, and the black colourway I was testing it in allows for things like your favourite headcover and towel to really sing against the black, clean design.

One thing it is missing is a cooler pocket. There is space for a water bottle, thankfully - and it's easy to access on the move too - but not a dedicated cooler pocket like you get in some of the other best stand bags on the market.

The straps and hip pad are extremely comfortable, offering sweet relief to shoulders and lower backs as you get toward the end of walking 18 holes. The same material is used on the 4-way divider, which protects from any nasty shaft rub or wear very effectively.

The divider can comfortably fit all 14 of my clubs, including my large putter grip, without any crowding. I can imagine a full set of jumbo grips may struggle in this bag, but midsize and thinner will have plenty of space in this bag.

The only issue I had was with the deployment of the legs after a month or so of regular use. There's a little plastic piece (the official name of which I don't know, but I'll picture it above. This has tended to drift up and down the leg support, thus causing the legs to twist when deployed. It's easily pushed back into position with a little bit of elbow grease applied and was the only real hiccup I found from a wear-and-tear point of view.

You can really tell this bag was designed with the keen walking golfer in mind. Built as lightweight as a bag of this size can reasonably be with all the storage you need, I couldn't recommend this bag more, and it is easily the best in this subcategory of stand bags I've tested in recent years.

When Titleist introduced the GT280, it quickly became a staple for players looking for a reliable, high-launching alternative off the tee that could still double as a long-range fairway weapon.

With the new GTS300 mini driver, Titleist set out to build directly on tour feedback from players like Justin Thomas and Cameron Young, focusing heavily on boosting stability without altering what made the original so playable off the turf.

The headline story is the expansion to a 305cc head volume. Utilizing a lightweight composite crown allowed Titleist engineers to reallocate discretionary weight deeper into the head, driving up inertia and making the head significantly easier to handle in terms of overall forgiveness on off-center hits.

Crucially, Titleist pulled off a masterstroke in design engineering: the entire volume expansion was executed horizontally. By keeping the exact same face depth as the GT280, the GTS300 retains its ‘low enough’ profile versatility from the turf, while incorporating a forged ATI 425 Titanium L-Cup face to protect ball speeds on lower-face strikes.

On the sole, Titleist added a dual-weighting system featuring 11g and 3g flat weights. Flipping these gives golfers and fitters what I would consider an almost essential tool nowadays to dial in launch and spin dynamics.

GTS300 Key Specifications:

Head Volume: 305cc

Standard Loft: 13.0° (SureFit Hosel Adjustable)

Standard Length: 43.5"

Sole Weighting: Dual-Weight System (11g / 3g Flat)

In hand, this is arguably the classiest-looking mini driver on the market today.

Titleist’s crown shaping is superb, blending traditional tour elegance with modern aerodynamic lines, while the expanded 305cc footprint gives you a noticeable boost in confidence behind the ball.

Off the tee, the slightly larger horizontal profile makes it feel far more like hitting a driver than its predecessor, which takes away any hesitation when stepping up on tight driving holes.

At address, the face is a touch lighter in finish than the black crown. This contrast makes it delightfully easy to pick out your target line and see some static loft. It provides a visual guide that isn't quite as stark as the crown-to-face contrast found across the standard GTS fairway range - a visual tweak I personally remain somewhat on the fence about - making the GTS300 look clean and cohesive at setup.

Both off the tee and off the deck, the GTS300 delivers performance that feels very "Titleist" - no unnecessary frills, just a solid, reassuringly crisp, and highly responsive feel off the face.

Ball speed is genuinely rapid. During testing on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, the GTS300 was absolutely neck-and-neck with the TaylorMade R7 Quad mini as the fastest mini driver I have tested to date.

Where the GTS300 really separates itself from the previous GT280 is in its manners on mis-hits. Heel and toe strikes stay online remarkably well, preserving distance in a way that feels far more forgiving. Yet, when you drop the ball onto the fairway turf, the preserved face depth means you don't feel like you are trying to sweep a giant driver head off the grass. It glides through cleanly, making light work of long approach shots.

Flipping the heavier 11g weight into the front port knocked off between 150 and 300rpm of spin for me on average, while moving it rearward made it feel a little easier to flight off the fairway, so you obviously have to make your mind up what you are prioritising when settling on a configuration.

If you loved the GT280, the GTS300 gives you virtually identical numbers, wrapped in a head that is noticeably more forgiving and confidence-inspiring. It retains everything that makes a mini driver such a potent weapon while polishing the aesthetics and adjustability to a premium standard.

Fitting options and aftermarket versatility remain top-tier with the GTS300.

The head is compatible with Titleist’s standard Fairway SureFit hosel sleeve, though it is worth noting that due to the clubhead's longer hosel design, a standard 43-inch 3-wood shaft will play a half-inch longer at 43.5 inches once installed.

Titleist offers an impressive lineup of featured shafts straight out of the box, including the Project X Titan Black alongside Mitsubishi’s Tensei 1K series in White, Blue, and Red. For those seeking custom upgrades, premium options include Graphite Design’s Tour AD DI, VF, and FI models.

The GTS300 comes in at an SRP of £499 for the featured shaft options, rising to £669 for the premium Graphite Design setups.

Aretera Golf may be a relatively new name in the premium shaft space, but the engineering mind behind the brand carries decades of tour-proven credibility. With the AO2 family, Aretera aims to simplify the fitting equation while delivering an exceptional blend of feel, stability, and shot repeatability.

How We Test Shafts

All of our shaft testing is conducted using the same TaylorMade Qi35 core head driver set to a precise 9 degrees (measured), with each shaft cut to an exact length of 45.5 inches, fitted with a Golf Pride Tour Velvet 60R grip. Furthermore, all testing shots are struck from a white castle tee to ensure consistent tee height during testing.

The data is collected and recorded using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and TaylorMade TP5x golf balls.

Controlling these potential variables allows me to draw accurate and direct comparisons and form a clear picture of each shaft's performance and feel characteristics.

Aretera AO2 Shafts: Technology

The engineering philosophy behind the AO2 centers around Aretera’s proprietary PowerGrid carbon fiber material, designed to maximize structural integrity and energy transfer without adding dead weight.

What makes the AO2 lineup particularly clever is its single-variable design concept. Across both available colorways - Blue and Gray - the handle and mid-sections feature identical EI profiles: an active, smooth handle section paired with a firm mid-section for torsional stability.

The only differentiating feature between the two is tip stiffness, where the AO2 Gray features a 7% stiffer tip section than the AO2 Blue. By keeping the upper two-thirds of the shaft identical, Aretera allows fitters and players to dial in launch, spin, and tip activity without altering the overall feel under the hands.

Aretera AO2 Blue

Weight & Flex Tested: 65/5 (Driver) & 75/5 (3-Wood)

As I just noted, with both the Blue and Gray profiles, you are essentially dealing with the same baseline shaft, simply tweaked at the tip section. In the Blue profile, that slightly more active tip delivered a touch more dynamic loft through impact for me - but as always, make sure to test this, as it can have the exact opposite effect depending on your release type.

During testing, I really enjoyed the active handle section; it offered a wonderfully smooth and easy sensation under the hands from the transition through to release. What stood out most in terms of performance was my consistency of center contact. I personally found center-face impacts a little easier to dial in with the Blue profile in both my driver and fairway wood.

Interestingly, in the Gray profile I noticed one or two more low strikes on the face during my session. This suggests to me that the slightly softer tip and additional shaft droop of the Blue profile allowed the center of the clubhead to drop a touch lower at impact, aligning perfectly with my natural delivery path.

Choose This Shaft If:

You have a smooth to moderate tempo and prefer a lively, high-energy tip response.

You benefit from a fraction more shaft droop to find the center of the face.

Aretera AO2 Gray

Weight & Flex Tested: 65/5 (Driver) & 75/5 (3-Wood)

Stepping into the AO2 Gray profile, the 7% increase in tip stiffness immediately subtly tightens up the bottom end of the swing while retaining that same smooth handle feel.

The consistency of both shafts was simply off the charts good. The Gray profile delivered the clubhead with identical timing and feel swing after swing, resulting in exceptionally tight start directions and repeatable dispersion patterns.

For golfers who tend to over-launch the ball or fight a hook when a tip section gets too active, the Gray profile offers that added bit of structural control at impact without in any way feeling harsh or boardy.

Choose This Shaft If:

You love a smooth handle feel but require extra tip resistance through impact.

Verdict

On the whole, the Aretera AO2 family offered one of the smoothest rides through the golf swing of anything I have tested this year.

In my opinion, the AO2 design will suit players with smooth to moderate tempos far more than those with super brisk or snappy transitions at the top. That said, the engineering, materials, and build quality involved here are second to none - delivering an incredibly consistent feel and clubhead delivery that you can definitely rely on.

Cleveland has long been a powerhouse in the wedge category, but the new RTZ 2 wedge brings 40 years of short-game knowhow to the market. I absolutely loved the original RTZ wedges, and so when the RTZ 2 wedges landed on my doorstep, I was eager to see if this second iteration could genuinely elevate my short game and be considered some of the best golf wedges on the market.

To find out, I ripped off the wrappers of some RTZ 2 wedges and took them out for rigorous on-course testing in a variety of conditions, followed by a session on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor to capture the data.

At first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking nothing has changed with these wedges compared to the previous model, but the RTZ 2 wedges have seen a significant structural change from the original RTZ model.

This is highlighted by the introduction of ZipCore iQ, compared with the standard ZipCore technology in the RTZ. This new iteration features a fully optimized, lightweight hosel tailored specifically for each loft and grind combination.

On the course, this redistribution of mass meant my strikes felt incredibly stable because the center of gravity is dialed in for the specific impact location of each loft, and therefore the clubhead wants to resist twisting on off-center strikes.

On delicate, open-faced bunker shots where I occasionally caught the ball slightly out of the toe, the RTZ 2 delivered remarkably reliable distance control rather than frequently coming up short.

Cleveland continues to use their proprietary Z-Alloy material in its wedges, offering a noticeably soft feel. Whether I was hitting a full gap wedge from the fairway or a delicate 60^° chip from the fringe, the ball seemed to melt into the face, providing the exact feedback tour players demand and I love.

Taking these wedges onto the course was where I saw the HydraZip and UltiZip technology really shine. The sharper grooves of the UltiZip design acted almost like tyre treads to disperse any morning dew or sand in the soil, gliding through the wet grass and channeling dirt and moisture away from the grooves.

Traditional wedge face designs often suffer a big drop-off in spin when there is debris in the way, resulting in a loss of control and seeing a ball shoot off like a flier or fall out of the sky short of your target.

Complementing the grooves is the HydraZip face blasting that we saw on the RTZ wedges. This blasting technique makes the faces far more durable, and laser-milled lines between the deep grooves also add some friction for additional spin. I noticed this helped with stopping power on shorter pitch shots where I wasn’t putting so much speed through the club.

What’s really cool is the face textures are configured by loft groupings, meaning it’s roughest on the sand and lob wedges to maximize spin on partial shots. On just the first few shots, I started taking the cover off the ball!

I love how Roger Cleveland's signature touch is all over the sole of these clubs. The legendary 588 grind provides an absolute masterclass in trailing-edge relief. I found it incredibly easy to roll the face open without the leading edge sitting too high off the turf and the heel digging in.

If you’re someone who likes to do this and nip the ball off bare, tight lies around the greens, then you should definitely be looking at this wedge and grind.

The RTZ 2 offers a traditional shape across the MID, FULL, LOW, and 588 grinds to suit any swing type and turf condition. However, the ADAPT grind offers something different with a high-toe design and full-face grooves.

When I was short sided in a deep bunker and needed to accelerate hard under the ball, having those grooves extend all the way out to the toe helped a lot when sliding the club from right-to-left through impact.

I put the RTZ 2 to the test against arguably the best wedge on the market - the Titleist Vokey SM11 - on a 50-yard pitch to see how the results compared. While both wedges delivered precisely 50 yards of carry, they achieved it in slightly different ways. The RTZ 2 generated a notable 465rpm more spin than the Vokey SM11 on an identical half-swing shot. It also launched a fraction of a degree higher and reached an apex that was two feet higher.

This combination of a slightly higher trajectory and significantly superior spin means the Cleveland wedge will stop noticeably quickly upon landing. If you are a player who struggles to get the ball to bite quickly on firm summer greens, this data proves the RTZ 2 has the stopping power to attack those hidden, short-sided pins if you dare.

The Cleveland RTZ 2 wedge (£159 or £169 in the Tour Rack finish) is a really good option if you’re looking to upgrade your wedges this year. By pairing the buttery feel of Z-Alloy with the hyper-optimized ZipCore iQ and aggressively milled HydraZip face, Cleveland has crafted a wedge that seamlessly blends Tour-level control with modern consistency.

Whether you lean toward the classic versatility of the 588 grind or the modern, high-toe profile of the ADAPT, the RTZ 2 certainly challenges the Vokey SM11 and others for the throne of the wedge market.

Adidas' Codechaos shoe is a real 'if you know, you know' shoe. If I see people wearing a pair, I know they know ball. The three previous iterations of the franchise have perfectly encapsulated everything about the best adidas golf shoes, combining high levels of performance, genuine comfort and a more esoteric design language that never crossed over into silliness. The fourth generation 2027 version has arrived with a lot to live up to.

Taking them out of the box, I couldn't help but feel that the design language has gone back into its shell. On previous iterations - namely the Codechaos 23 - we've seen outsole nubs bleeding onto the upper and patterns and materials that evoked the sort of chaos that the name demands.

On the 27 model, I don't get as much of this. The last (the shape and fit) is very similar to previous models and is certainly on the more athletic side of the spectrum. It is most certainly a golf shoe, and doesn't make any efforts to be anything else or offer 'off-course' wearability, which I think plays into its strengths.

The colourway I tested it in certainly leans on the chaotic side. The blue and green look decent together on the shoe, but good luck finding an outfit to match this with.

My last gripe with the looks is the plastic sheen that comes with the new Axislock technology, which runs from the midsole to the heel. Pictured on my pair as the blue polygon shape with a green outline, the material used looks and feels cheap to the touch, taking away from any premium design cues this shoe does have in place.

There's a similar sheen to the three stripes running down the middle of the upper, and I think it cheapens the overall look.

It's not all bad from a design perspective, however. One neat detail is the ornamental badge on the bottom of the laces, which mimics the design of the outsole nubs. It's touches of detail like this that make the shoe feel very considered. The embossed stripes on the upper part of the toe box are another design cue that helps claw back some of the design elements I really didn't like.

I'm incredibly pleased to report that the performance of Codechaos 27 is as good, if not better, than all the previous generations. The Boost midsole foam - my favourite of the three foam technologies Adidas uses in its golf shoes - runs throughout the entire sole from toe to heel, offering a brilliant balance of walking comfort and rebound through the swing that I've come to enjoy so much in the Adidas Tour360 24, which uses the same foam.

The excellent Twistgrip outsole has also been improved on in this generation, covering 120% more surface area than the previous iteration while using four different lug shapes configured to offer optimal grip in all conditions. I think it's one of the best examples of a spikeless outsole in an ever-improving part of the market.

Though the exterior look of the Axislock technology isn't to my taste, it is certainly an effective addition to the shoe. My heel felt nicely slotted in place and healthily cushioned by the Boost midsole foam to create a powerful sensation with no slippage whatsoever.

The even better news comes in the form of the price tag. In the UK, it can be found for £119 and in the US for $149. The UK RRP, to my mind, is incredibly competitive for such a high-performing and all-year-round golf shoe.

I can't fault the Codechaos 27 for its performance, and the franchise remains one of the best spikeless golf shoes on the market right now. Looks are, of course, subjective, but it's not the best-looking in the family lineage for my money. However, that takes nothing away from this well-priced, consciously designed and well-executed golf shoe.

Zero-torque putters have well and truly cemented their place on the market, dominating the spotlight as one of the most talked-about equipment trends in golf. But for all their performance benefits, many golfers struggle to adjust to the unconventional-looking, center-shafted designs.

That's why, when I saw the Bettinardi Antidote Hexperimental #7 showcases a new heel-shafted look in a mid-mallet design, I couldn’t wait to take it out on the course and analyse its performance.

Having previously reviewed and absolutely loved the blade-style Bettinardi 2025 Antidote SB1, I was chomping at the bit to see if the limited-run Antidote Hexperimental #7 could deliver that same beautiful feel off the face, in the shape of a more stable mid-mallet design, all in a new-look zero torque aesthetic.

Pulling the Hexperimental #7 out of its magnetic headcover (an absolute must for premium putters in my opinion), the first thing that hits you is that it looks genuinely incredible.

While the SB1 I tested previously featured a bright Diamond Blast and Sapphire Blue finish, the Hexperimental #7 goes down a much darker, stealthier route. Coated in a highly durable, two-tone Black Armor TPT finish, it immediately gives off a premium aura.

It also contrasts sharply with the Distressed Blue accents on the face and sole, showcasing the modern craftsmanship that we’ve come to expect from the best Bettinardi putters.

What really stands out, though, is the profile at address. Setting it down behind the ball, it looks like a classic compact mallet with a modified plumber’s neck. There is a very deliberate rectangular cutout the width of a golf ball behind the face that pushes weight to the perimeter and aids alignment.

But crucially, it will appeal to the eye of golfers who have avoided zero-torque putters because they dislike the look of center-shafted setups, but have always been intrigued by the proposition of the best zero-torque putters.

The real magic of the Hexperimental #7 lies in Bettinardi's patented Simply Balanced technology. Despite looking like a conventional putter at address, the shaft axis is engineered to align perfectly with the putter head's center of gravity (CG), reducing torque and allowing the face to remain square to the putter's path throughout the stroke.

In my testing, I found the head felt remarkably stable through impact and couldn’t help but feel this would be a putter that those with a straighter arc to their stroke would love. That said, I found it takes a few putts to trust that you don't need to manipulate your hands to open and close the face, but once you do, squaring the face feels almost automatic.

In terms of feel, the Hexperimental #7 utilizes Bettinardi’s re-engineered F.I.T. (Feel Impact Technology) Face. While the Antidote SB1 I reviewed removed 55 percent of the face material for a supremely soft impact, the Hexperimental #7 removes 30 percent. The result is a slightly crisper, more responsive audible click off the 303 stainless steel face, while still maintaining that muted, buttery feel.

While I did love how this putter felt through impact and the roll it produced was superb, the overall weight of the putter felt a little light for my liking. This, however, is something you can easily adapt to, and after 9 holes I started to understand the putter even more, and my distance control felt extremely well dialed.

The Hexperimental #7 comes paired with a matte black shaft and a matching Bettinardi Black Hex PU grip that sits wonderfully in the hands and just adds to the overall premium nature of this putter.

At $550 or £549, it firmly occupies the ultra-premium end of the market, but that’s what you’d expect from a limited-run putter. However, if you're a golfer who has been desperate to take advantage of zero-torque forgiveness but couldn't palate the unconventional looks of other models on the market, this beauty could be exactly what you've been looking for.

The golf speaker scene remains a fairly niche enclave of the golf tech space, but 2026 is the year of its most fierce competition for the best golf speaker title. So far this year, I’ve already tested both the Bushnell Wingman HD and the Mileseey GeneSonic Pro, and both left me very impressed.

Now it's time for a speaker I’ve been wanting to test for a while - Blue Tees’ entry in the battle for musical supremacy - the Player Pro. The brand has taken the best features from its popular Player+ speaker and added a few upgrades, most notably 360° sound, a new and improved full color touchscreen display and smart golf features that tap into your Blue Tees golf ecosystem - more on that later.

The first impressions are strong - this is a good-looking speaker that doesn’t weigh too much. However, if you’re a walker like me rather than someone who rides in a cart most rounds, it might prove too heavy to attach to the side of your bag. Nevertheless, this remains an option for you.

There are 42,000 preloaded courses on this speaker, with a wealth of golf-specific features. However, and I will address this now, a subscription is required for a lot of these features. Without paying, you’ll still have access to audible front/middle/back distances and a high quality music system, but that's about it.

On the flip side, the subscription lets you access so much more, including hazard distances, shot tracking, green views, club recommendations and access to the general Blue Tees ecosystem released in 2026. There’s more, with an on-device scorecard, dispersion tracking, social leaderboards and AI-adjusted yardages based on how far you hit each club and the conditions you are playing in - all behind the paywall, too.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s frustrating. But it's not unreasonable for what you get. You get your first year free, and after that it's $49/year or $99 for three years. All things considered, I don’t think this is too bad.

Whether it is worth the money to you or not depends on whether you want to buy into the ecosystem. It’s been a big year for the brand, releasing two new rangefinders, the Captain Pro and Captain Air, a new affordable launch monitor in the Rainmaker, and this speaker, all connected to the newly-launched Blue Tees ecosystem and housed in the Blue Tees app.

If you want your own golf ecosystem and somewhere to store shot data to learn more about your game, Blue Tees is one of the most affordable places to do that. The app isn’t perfect, as I have mentioned in previous reviews, but I’m confident it will improve as the months progress.

Back to the speaker. Music-wise, this is a great device and one I’ve been using a lot around the house over the last number of weeks. The dual-driver speaker system delivers sound all around you rather than in one direction and the heavy-duty magnetic strip allows you to stick it just about anywhere.

I tested it at both Ormeau Golf Club in Belfast as well as Royal County Down, two busy golf courses where I couldn’t blaze the tunes. However, this let me focus solely on the golf-specific features.

On the course, each of the features is delivered brilliantly on one of the best screens I’ve ever seen on a golf speaker. The full-color touchscreen is dead easy to use, which made reviewing this device and testing out the aforementioned features a lot easier than I thought it would be (they all work brilliantly, I’ll add).

Since I walk 99% of my rounds, this device isn’t for me and that’s fine. However, if you’re a Lewis Hamilton-level cartaholic, you can attach this to the frame of your buggy and get every piece of information you could possibly want mid-round. The GPS technology is genuinely useful and reliable. Having to connect to the app before each round is a pet peeve of mine, but it only takes a few seconds.

Golf speakers used to be additional devices to bring onto the course with you - they were there for music, and although they’ll throw a few yardages at you, you’ll still need one of the best golf rangefinders or your trusty golf watch. With the Player Pro, that is no longer the case. You get the best of both worlds, and if you decide to pair it with other Blue Tees devices, you can open up an entire ecosystem for your game for a very decent price.

I’ve been impressed by all the releases Blue Tees has delivered in 2026 and I can’t say I’m surprised to say that the Player Pro continued that trend.

The recipe to create one of the best golf bags is a fairly simple one. It should provide safe storage for your golf clubs, provide enough space to carry your apparel and accessories, have a comfortable strap for when you carry and have a reliable kick stand that goes into action the moment you set it down.

Plenty of golf bags include all of these features, but they won’t tick arguably the most important box of all - value for money.

A lot of the best golf stand bags are priced well north of $200, with premium options often priced between $300-400. Yeah, they might last you for the next three, flour, maybe even five years, but you’re forking out a lot up front for a bag that may need replaced in a couple of years' time.

What if I told you that you can get a bag that keeps your clubs VERY safe, with ample storage room, a comfy strap and a serviceable kick stand, all for less than $200?

Many see the brand RAM, a label known for value for money rather than premium products, and turn their nose up. Yes, it isn’t the sexiest brand in the world, but golf isn’t the sexiest sport in the world either, is it? Get over it.

I’ll admit, sometimes I turn my nose up at brands like this too, but the more I used their FX-LOCK Stand Bag, the more impressed I was.

The unique selling point of this bag, much like the FX-LOCK Cart Bag I reviewed, is for it to act like prime Agent 007 and move in silence - no clubs clicking or slapping against each other. Instead, they’re all housed in their own unique spot courtesy of the 13+1 molded top that cradles each shaft into its own dedicated cell.

I have two main takeaways with the 13+1 way top. Firstly, it works. Your clubs barely make a noise as you walk, so RAM have achieved what they wanted to here and credit is due where it is due. The second takeaway is that it isn’t the prettiest feature I’ve ever seen on a golf bag. For as good as it is functionally, it will divide opinion in terms of looks.

It does take a bit more brain power to slide your 7 iron back into the dedicated slot post-shot, but you get used to it quickly. The putter lives in its own unique slot at the top of the bag, which allows plenty of room for those who use fatter grips on their flatstick.

The biggest compliment I can give this bag is that it has clearly been designed by golfers. There are a number of well executed features golfers will appreciate, like the ample storage of 8 pockets including a pleasingly large cooler pocket, a slick and easily accessible water bottle pocket and a valuables pocket for your phone, wallet and keys.

Weighing 7.4lbs/3.3kg, it weighs more than most of the best lightweight golf bags, but this isn’t exactly heavy. The walking experience was a pleasant one courtesy of the aforementioned 13+1 top meaning I didn’t have to listen to clubs clicking and a dual 4-point strap that provided comfort as I carried. The kickstand was also very responsive, even on uneven terrain.

I tested this bag at Ormeau Golf Club in Belfast, a nifty nine-hole course near the city centre, where the members complimented the looks of the bag on the first tee. They were fond of the red/white/blue colorway, one of four available to choose from.

If I was to be overly critical, I thought the material was a bit shiny which cheapened the look, but I’m also aware this is one of the cheapest new golf bag options on the market so it is unlikely to have the premium materials used on bags double the price.

At £119.99/$179.99, there is a lot to like here. If you don’t mind opting for a more budget friendly golf bag, the FX-LOCK is a great choice. As mentioned, the plastic top will divide opinion, but you can’t argue it doesn’t work. You could make far worse decisions than saving the guts of $100-150 and reinvesting that in other parts of your game.

I LOVE testing golf equipment at the lower end of the price scale. The price of playing this sport has only risen in recent years and I don’t see it going down, so getting the biggest bang for your buck has never been more important.

There is a lot we need to play regularly as well, meaning a lot of money needs to be spent. The best golf bags, clothing, golf balls, membership… I could go on.

An easy way to save is to get a more value-friendly golf bag, but consumers can get stung by opting for a cheaper bag that will need replacing after a year or two due to poor quality materials and general lack of durability.

If someone asked me what budget brand I’d point them towards in the golf bag space, it would be RAM. I’ve been testing their new FX-LOCK Trolley Bag which, at £119/$179.99, seems incredible value - but how did it perform on the golf course, and how does it compare to the best push cart bags money can buy?

There are two main selling points for this bag. Firstly, the aforementioned price point. Secondly, the full name of this bag is the Ram Golf FX-LOCK Silent Trolley Bag with 14-Way Club-Locking Top, with a unique 14-way plastic top keeping each of your clubs separate and preventing them from bashing together as you walk the course.

To quote Ram directly, they claim “The Ram FX-LOCK Trolley Bag solves one of the most annoying things about a round of golf: clubs that rattle, tangle, and clatter on every bump of the cart path”.

Now, in reference to the title of this review, my first impression of this 14-way divider was that it wasn’t overly easy on the eye, but on the course did exactly what it said it would do. It takes a little bit of brain power when putting your club back in your bag, but you can’t argue it keeps your sticks organized, no matter your thoughts on the 'plasticky' look. It will divide opinion and might be a deal breaker for you - if so, that is fine, but don't let it take away from the rest of this impressive bag.

Looks-wise, this isn’t the most premium bag you’ll ever see. The shiny material doesn’t match the high-end look of competing brands, but then again, the models I’m thinking if are much more expensive and are some of the best golf trolley bags on the market. You also get four color choices, so there should be something that fits the eye for everyone.

A standout feature of this bag is the seemingly endless storage. There are ten pockets in total, including two valuables pouches, a cooler pocket that fits two large bottles, two apparel pockets and dedicated ball and accessories pockets.

This is a really cleverly designed bag, proven by the external putter holder separated from the rest of your set to allow for oversized grips and a towel buckle that lets you feed it through the bag rather than have it hanging from your clubs.

A matching rain hood comes included, whilst the umbrella holder is there if you need it (hopefully not). The velcro glove attachment on the side is also a well thought-out feature.

Weighing just 3.3kg, it won’t break your back putting it on one of the best push carts or electric trolleys either.

There isn’t a lot to critique here in all honesty. The unique plastic top will divide opinion (no pun intended). I'm not mad about it myself personally, but it does what it is designed to do. The question for buyers is are you happy with the looks and quality here, or do you want something that looks a bit more fancy? If not, then this bag is a no-brainer - it works well, provides plenty of storage space and doesn’t weigh a lot. What more could you want at this price?

If you watch any YouTube golf, you will probably already have seen this distinctive shaft in the irons of George Bryan, and maybe even more notably, in the bag of former world number one Jason Day. When you consider that Day used to play what is maybe the godfather of heavy, stiff iron shafts in the Dynamic Gold X7, this sudden switch to graphite certainly raised my eyebrows.

KBS has long established itself in the premium shaft market by utilizing manufacturing processes that prioritize consistent, elite-level performance in traditional steel. However, with the TGI (Tour Graphite Iron) shaft, the brand is branching out. I was incredibly excited to put this shaft through its paces to see if it could finally tempt a long-time steel user over to the dark side.

KBS TGI Tour Graphite Iron Shaft Review: Technology

The TGI distinguishes itself immediately in its core engineering and mission statement. KBS explicitly states that this is its first graphite shaft to play exactly like KBS steel, developed with optimized weight and stiffness profiles to maximize performance. According to the brand, it is designed utilizing the exact same E.I. curve as the renowned KBS Tour Steel shafts, aiming to provide that familiar tour-level trajectory and spin control in a composite package.

Available in both taper tip and parallel tip options, the fitting range is impressively vast. With weight options scaling from a lightweight 60g up to a robust 110g, and flexes ranging from R all the way to X-Stiff+, there is an abundance of options to fit every golfer, from juniors to seasoned Tour professionals.

Before we even get to the swing, I have to mention the aesthetics. Maybe this point shouldn't matter, but it does to so many of us; I absolutely love the look of them! The premium matte black finish paired with the distinctive red TGI banner is brilliantly executed. I genuinely couldn't stop looking at them, and they somehow visually elevated any clubhead I paired them with!

KBS TGI Tour Graphite Iron Shaft Review: Performance

While KBS states that it is actively trying to retain the same playing characteristics of steel, I am not sure I would entirely agree that I saw that in my game. This is no criticism, by the way; on the contrary, I actually found the differences both very obvious and highly beneficial.

For my testing, I utilized the taper tip 110 model. During my rounds, while the elite control and consistency I usually expect from my trusty Dynamic Gold X100 shafts remained completely intact, my peak height popped up a little, giving me a beautifully optimized ball flight. Furthermore, my consistent mishit - which tends to be a slight thin - felt significantly better by the time the composite material had filtered away some of the horrible vibrations I would normally experience.

In terms of in-swing feedback, I would put the TGI on the 'boardier' end of the spectrum of the graphite irons I have tested. They feel much more akin to the firmer Fujikura Axiom rather than the Mitsubishi MMT, which I found a touch smoother. But for some reason, this firmer sensation perfectly suited the overall performance of the shaft and gave me immense confidence not to have to babysit this shaft through impact.

KBS TGI Tour Graphite Iron Shaft Review: Verdict

If you are a long-term steel shaft user looking for your very first flirtation with graphite irons, then this may well be the perfect place to start - the ultimate gateway shaft, if you will.

At just $71.95 per shaft, the price tag also compares very favorably to many of its premium competitors in this rapidly growing market. By combining stunning aesthetics, vibration-dampening forgiveness, and pinpoint control, the KBS TGI is a stellar performer.

Every summer, at our family get-together, there have to be garden games - they're more important than the BBQ.

We’ve had break-a-plate, badminton, skittles, Molkky, darts, Cornhole (my personal favorite) … the list goes on - and I normally win them all.

This year, with the annual party coming on the back of The Open at Royal Birkdale, I was keen to get the whole family playing some form of golf - so the search began.

It didn't take long before I came across the “ultimate backyard golf game”.

It seemed like BucketGolf was everywhere, so I messaged my dad and told him to stop worrying about the hosepipe ban - we would not be needing the garden to look like Augusta.

Would I regret dropping the traditional putting competition from the itinerary in favor of an untested golf game?

BucketGolf says its mission is “to bring families and friends together through competitive fun”, and one of the most appealing aspects of the game was the fact that it looked very playable - big buckets for holes, large clubheads and huge plastic balls.

And it looked like a lot of fun, perfect for what I had in mind, and suitable for golfers and non-golfers, as well as little ones.

Just before The Open got underway at Royal Birkdale, I took delivery of the BucketGolf 6 Hole Bundle - and I headed straight out to my garden.

First impressions? Excited. This ‘bundle’ included six buckets, six flagsticks, six plastic balls and six tee boxes) - plus four clubs, which is plenty enough (you can order more/less as well as left-handed ones).

Everything looked well made, and the carry bag was a nice addition, making it easy to pop into the boot of the car and keep all the items neatly stored together in one place.

Onto the set-up. The fact that it’s easy to assemble was also a big plus. Erecting the gazebo earlier in the day had been rather complicated, so this was a relief.

The six-hole course was laid out in less than 10 minutes, swinging around a basketball stand, over and between vegetable patches, a hobbit house, and a well.

So, shortly after lunch, it was time for some golf.

After just a few minutes, it was clear that I’d made the game too difficult; although the buckets are very wide, it’s still quite a skill to land one in even from close range.

However, what’s good about BucketGolf is that you can make up your own rules. There are ways to make it easier, and you can invent your own scoring system: one for hitting the bucket, five for landing a ball in it, for example (this kept the kids interested).

The clubs are excellent. Even if you’re a beginner, the oversized heads make it easy to get the ball in the air (most of the time), and they’re very robust, able to withstand poor strikes and the odd temper tantrum.

At the risk of sounding like I took the game way too seriously (I did), you can actually get a good amount of draw and slice spin on your shots; the clubs might not be Vokey wedges, but you can have some fun shaping shots and opening the face to get a bit more height (I told you I took it seriously).

The flagsticks, which poke through a small hole in the bucket into the ground, are a nice touch, too, although this is not so easy to do when the ground is rock hard - so don't try and force them in or they are likely to break.

Meanwhile, the numbers on the tee markers and buckets elevate the experience and give it just enough of a ‘serious’ competition feel.

As for the custom balls, which are designed to fly between 10-40 yards, they do deviate in the wind, which is no surprise given the holes - something which actually adds to the fun in blustery conditions.

I realize I'm going to sound like a wet blanket here, but I lost my enthusiasm after about 30 minutes - although this might say more about me than the game itself.

I found myself wondering whether I could squeeze nine holes in after the party, and whether it would be more fun to play with actual golf balls (it is, but it’s neither safe nor in the spirit of the game).

However, long after the party was over, I was back out in the garden playing against my brother - this time for a lot longer and with something on the line (again, it might say more about me that we had to have a wager).

My overriding feeling is that BucketGolf just lacks a bit of an X factor, some kind of feature that makes it more engaging.

That said, the fact that I have had it out a few times since the party suggests that it does have an addictive quality (I'm currently actually using the buckets and flags for chipping practice with proper balls).

And I should stress that because I love the ‘real thing’ so much, playing any other version - and I include going to the range and playing on a golf simulator in this - never really gets the juices flowing in quite the same way.

I probably sound like a killjoy, so I’ll put my fun hat on and say this: as golf games for the garden go, for occasions that get everyone involved for some outdoor fun, it’s a well-thought-out and well-made product.

Is it worth $230 (£174.99)? I think this is quite pricey. BucketGolf fans, of which there are many out there, might disagree, for it can provide hours of fun.

For me, Cornhole is still hard to beat.

KBS has long been a dominant force in the steel shaft market, but its graphite offerings are increasingly turning heads. Its latest offering, the TG Black driver and fairway wood shaft, has already seen significant tour adoption, most notably finding its way into the hands of former world number one, Jason Day.

For me, as a 115- 120 mph driver speed player, finding a shaft that can handle an aggressive move without feeling excessively harsh or boardy is a constant quest. I was excited to put the TG Black through its paces to see if it could deliver the kind of tight dispersion every golfer dreams of, without sacrificing responsiveness.

How We Test Shafts

All of our shaft testing is conducted using the same TaylorMade Qi35 core head driver set to a precise 9 degrees (measured), with each shaft cut to an exact length of 45.5 inches, fitted with a Golf Pride Tour Velvet 60R grip. Furthermore, all testing shots are struck from a white castle tee to ensure consistent tee height during testing.

The data is collected and recorded using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and TaylorMade TP5x golf balls.

Controlling these potential variables allows me to draw accurate and direct comparisons and form a clear picture of each shaft's performance and feel characteristics.

KBS TG Black Shaft Review: Technology

Looking at the technical specifications, the TG Black distinguishes itself as a product engineered by and for elite players seeking control, stability, and an optimized launch. KBS claims it combines the signature feel of steel with the benefits of premium graphite technology. It utilizes a High Modulus Graphite construction designed for consistent energy transfer and tight dispersion, alongside a firm tip section to promote control and accuracy at high speeds.

What is particularly unusual, and a real testament to KBS catering to faster swingers, is the flex options available. Alongside conventional R, S, and X flexes across weights from 40g up to 80g, the TG Black is also available in not only a TX (Tour X) but also a TXX!

For my testing, I opted for the TX and was eager to see how the low launch, low spin profile would translate into real-world performance.

KBS TG Black Shaft Review: Performance

While the overall design is one geared towards stability and that 'low launch/spin' window (a concept in itself I am less and less convinced by), the actual feel is incredibly smooth. I feel as though this is a shaft that ‘stays with me’ extremely well. There is no excessive loading during the transition, but simultaneously, there is no real feeling that you need to try too hard to get anything out of it.

I often feel like a good shaft is a bit like a referee in a sports game - the less you notice them, the better they tend to be doing their job, and I think that is the highest compliment I can give the TG Black. It is kind of stealthy in terms of its ability to remain almost anonymous throughout the golf swing, but for me, it just seems to have a very nice habit of returning to the ball at just the right millisecond to find a centered strike.

I thoroughly enjoyed the consistency and feel on offer.

Interestingly, personally I found it to be an incredibly effective fairway wood shaft, maybe even more so than in driver in my hands for whatever reason. I was lucky enough to get a couple of the 70 TX shafts for testing, which I put in two different manufacturer adapters and have to say it performed equally superbly in both. It is strong without being a poker, and delivers a lovely sensation through strike. I was so impressed, in fact, that I am more than likely going to be making a switch in this area of the bag based on this testing.

KBS TG Black Shaft Review: Verdict

The KBS TG Black is a standout offering that merges power, feel, and stability beautifully. Another plus point for many will undoubtedly be the price tag. For a tour-validated premium golf shaft, $200 is a comparatively reasonable ask when you consider that the - albeit fantastic - Ventus range from Fujikura will set you back more like $350. If you prioritize stability but refuse to sacrifice a smooth feel, the TG Black should be very high on your testing list.

Following my recent time spent reviewing the XC1 irons, I was highly eager to get my hands on the matching Maxfli XCW wedges to see if they warrant a conversation as a suitable alternative to some of the best wedges in the game.

Under the hood, Maxfli has refused to cut corners. The XCW wedges are fully forged from 1025 Carbon Steel to ensure the high-end response better players demand. Much like the iron lineup, these wedges strategically utilize internal Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) technology to achieve optimal mass placement.

This translates to progressive vertical weighting, which cleverly positions the center of gravity (CG) lower in the low-lofted options to ensure predictability on full swings, and higher in the high-lofted heads to aid in controlling trajectory and maximizing spin on delicate partial shots.

On the face, CNC Milled Micro Grooves allow for more physical scoring lines (grooves) on the hitting surface to maximize backspin. This is paired with a CNC spin-milled sole designed to guarantee precise bounce consistency across every loft and grind combination.

In the bag - as with the rest of this Maxfli comeback range - these wedges look stunning. The back of the club is wonderfully clean and minimal, embracing the unadorned, premium aesthetic that I value so highly. However, much like my experience with the XC1 irons, the XCW wedges don't 100% suit my eye when down behind the ball.

At address, there is a slight notch of offset that interrupts the visual flow from the leading edge into the hosel.

Additionally, the hosel-to-top-edge transition doesn’t quite follow the same smooth, sweeping curves as the rest of the top edge. It creates a somewhat distinct shape that took a bit of getting used to. Of course, aesthetics are entirely subjective, and what jars slightly for me may well sit perfectly in someone else's hands.

Once you hit a few shots, any minor visual critiques quickly evaporate. The feel at impact is standout - offering a very soft, deep sensation that immediately alerts your hands to a high-quality forging.

When it comes to short game control, the XCW generates plenty of bite. In my testing, the backspin and trajectory control were fully comparable to premium flagship models like the Titleist Vokey SM11 and the Callaway Opus SP.

Maxfli offers three distinct sole shapes to cover different swing types: the A Grind (available in 50° and 52° for full gap-wedge swings), the X Grind (available in 56° and 60° featuring a wide sole for bunker forgiveness), and the multi-purpose M Grind (available in 54°, 56°, 58°, and 60°).

I tested the M Grind in both the 56° and 60° options and found it to be brilliantly versatile. While it didn’t offer much in the way of heel and toe relief to open the face up around the greens, it still beautifully coped with the tight, hard, burnt-out links turf of a traditional UK summer.

Overall, there isn’t much to dislike about these wedges, and I would deem them another strong component of a brilliant comeback into the hardware game from Maxfli.

At $129.99, these wedges represent excellent value for a fully forged product.

Sadly for the UK audience, they are currently a US exclusive available only at Golf Galaxy and Dick's Sporting Goods, but they are a phenomenal addition to a legendary brand’s comeback.

The golf equipment landscape is constantly shifting, and one of the most enjoyable trends is the resurgence of retro brands with significant heritage coming back to prominence. MacGregor has tapped into this beautifully, honoring one of history's most influential club designers with the launch of the Toney Penna Tour Forged iron range.

Precision forged from premium 1020 carbon steel, these muscle-backs marry classic craftsmanship with modern direct-to-consumer (DTC) efficiency, even offering full custom fitting online.

In terms of shelf appeal, the "in the bag" look is superb. MacGregor has opted for minimal branding, leaving a sophisticated finish beautifully elevated by the addition of the Toney Penna signature on the hosel.

Down behind the ball, the head shapes are superb; fans of soft, rounded curves and shorter blade lengths will be completely in their element here.

For me, the only thing that cheapens the look or gives any indication of the price bracket is the painted grooves. Sometimes less is more, and if I were gaming these, the first thing I would do is scrape the paint from the grooves, leaving them clean and blank.

In terms of performance, the data stacks up - as it does with almost every iron in this category, frankly. There is only so much you can do to influence data output with a forged blade at a certain loft, and that is the case once again here.

Granted, I found a couple of extra yards through the air versus most other MB’s on the market, but I am putting that down to the slightly stronger lofts (7 iron is 32˚ whereas most other MB’s or blades are at 33˚ or 34˚). Interestingly, this didn’t manifest itself with a lower ball flight than other blades I have tested recently, so I treated the small yardage boost as just a little bonus.

To me, with data so tight, the only true differentiators in this category are looks and feel. We've covered looks, so how do they feel?

Well, I would place them at a solid 8 out of 10 in that category. While they are reasonably soft and offer good feedback, I found them to lack the real density and depth that, say, the Cobra 3DP MB or the Mizuno Pro S1 give you. But then, you have to weigh up whether a touch more depth of strike is worth upwards of £1000 to you! Honestly, for me, that was the only real difference on show.

At less than £400 for a 4-PW set (with the MB model coming in at an RRP of £399.99), the value is unbelievable when you consider many mainstream brands are £1200 plus as a starting point.

Overall, this is another brilliant example of what the DTC iron market can offer. I’ve said it before, and I will say it again: I am very fortunate to get my golf equipment free, but if I were spending my own hard-earned money on a set of irons, the DTC market is the only place I would be looking.

For many years, Benross has been a brand synonymous with value, often serving as the entry point for golfers looking for reliable equipment without the four-figure price tag.

However, with the release of the new RS iron range - comprising the RS100, RS200, and RS300 - the brand seems to be moving into a new tier and looking to challenge some of the best irons in the game.

At £549 for a seven-piece set, the value proposition is immediately clear. But after testing the range, it was immediately evident to me that these aren’t just budget clubs; they are serious performers that offer a strong alternative to the dominance of the major manufacturers in the hollow-body category.

The first thing I noticed about the RS range was the shelf appeal. Benross has opted for a minimalist, clean aesthetic from the back that is remarkably sophisticated.

For me, the finish is a particular highlight - a matt texture that reveals an almost sparkly quality in certain lights. It looks significantly more premium than the price tag suggests, avoiding the cluttered, busy graphics often found in value-driven irons.

Because the branding and design language are so consistent across all three models, they are strikingly similar from the back.

While this made picking the right club out in testing worryingly difficult(!), it makes the RS range one of the most cohesive options on the market for creating a combo set. You could easily transition from an RS300 long iron into RS200 mid irons and RS100 short irons without the set looking mismatched in the bag.

All three models share the same DNA: a two-piece foam-filled hollow body construction featuring a 431 stainless steel body and a heat-treated S450 face. This uniform construction means the feel remains consistent as you move through the range.

During testing, the aforementioned feel was impressive - solid and dampened, yet noticeably energetic. The 20% thinner S450 face certainly does its job in generating ball speed. If there is a caveat, it’s that the face can feel a touch lively for those used to traditional forged blades.

I experienced a couple of mildly jumpy strikes that flew about 5 or 6 yards further than anticipated. However, these weren't ‘card wreckers’; we’re talking about landing on the back edge of the green rather than pin-high, a potentially fair trade-off for the distance on offer.

While they look similar, the performance characteristics are clearly defined:

RS100: This is the "player's" profile. With a classic profile and minimal offset, it’s designed for the better ball striker. It flew a touch lower and offered the most workability in the range. In terms of look and flight, it would be comparable to something like the TaylorMade P770.

RS200: Positioned as a mid-handicap solution, the 200 model offers a mid-size head and moderate offset. It balances workability and forgiveness nicely, reminding me of the TaylorMade P790. The CG is slightly lower than the RS100, making it easier to launch while maintaining a predictable trajectory.

RS300: For the golfer seeking maximum help. This is the largest head with the most offset, designed to promote face closure and a more draw bias flight. It launched very high and was incredibly forgiving through the turf thanks to a wider sole. For me, this one is competing with the likes of the Callaway Quantum Max or Cobra King irons.

One of the most impressive aspects of this launch is the accessibility of custom fitting. On the American Golf website, there are double-digit shaft options to select from (including KBS and Fujikura), along with loft and lie adjustments and various grip choices. This level of customization at this price point is a real bonus.

I would genuinely have absolutely no reservations recommending the Benross RS range to friends looking to save money on their next purchase. They look great, feel decent, and the performance gaps between the models are perfectly judged.

Benross has proven that you don't need to spend £1,200 to get a high-performing, custom-fit set of modern hollow-body irons.

As an equipment reviewer, I have really enjoyed seeing the resurgence of a brand that was so prevalent during my youth and formative years. Having previously reviewed the excellent XC2 irons, I have been thrilled to see how well this kind of retro resurgence has been executed by Maxfli.

There are no unnecessary frills here, and nothing trying too hard to be overly nostalgic - just some beautifully clean, minimalist designs that let the craftsmanship do the talking.

Let’s find out if these can give the current best blades a run for their money...

In terms of the technology story, the XC1 irons are packed with hidden innovations. They are forged from 1025C Carbon Steel using an advanced five-step forging process. Inside the head, co-forged internal tungsten weighting and CMC (Ceramic Matrix Composite) provide precise vertical and horizontal CG locations.

Notably, Maxfli is the first manufacturer in the industry to use this CMC technology specifically for weight saving and precision CG location, aiming to produce tour-preferred feel, trajectory, and distance control. Additionally, CNC milled Multi-Groove technology places more square grooves on the face for improved consistency, trajectory, and spin.

So if you are a fan of the groove pattern of the TaylorMade P7TW or even the old Nike VR Pro blades, these may well be worth a look.

In the bag, the XC1 irons are sensational looking. The premium satin finish is absolutely stunning and almost glimmers in the sunlight. Anyone who has read any of my reviews will know how much I value a clean, unfussy look, and Maxfli has absolutely nailed it here.

Down behind the ball, you will find a longer blade length than in many of the blade irons on the market, which is the first visual clue that they might be a little more forgiving than many of their direct competitors in this category.

In the playing position, along with being a touch long, I wouldn't say they are my absolute favorites from this angle. Far from bad, I just personally prefer a slightly straighter top edge moving into a curved toe, rather than the gentle curve found on this top edge. While I enjoy roundness in my iron heads, I always feel that there needs to be some straight lines to offer visual balance.

On the XC1, the leading edge, top edge, toe section, and the leading edge-to-hosel transition are all somewhat curved. Obviously, this is totally subjective, however, and this profile may well be very much in other people's wheelhouse.

Generally, in terms of launch monitor performance in the blade category, there is very little to differentiate models in terms of carry, ball speed, and even spin, and that is very much the case here.

Gathered on my Foresight Sports GC3, with conservative, traditional lofts (the 7-iron sits at 34˚), all of the launch monitor numbers are exactly as I would expect, and very comparable to any of the leading contenders in this space such as the Mizuno Pro S1 or the Titleist 620 MB.

What I didn't expect, however, was the added forgiveness, presumably unlocked by the tungsten weighting and that innovative CMC technology.

Much like with the incredibly impressive Cobra 3DP MB irons - which implement a similar internal weighting- the ball speed retention on heel and toe strikes is outstanding. I tend to think of this technology as internal perimeter weighting, and it is incredibly effective.

Despite many people's concerns that cramming technology and ‘pockets’ into a forged blade would affect the feel, the only effect I find is overwhelmingly positive. No drop-off on centred hits, but a massive uptick in feel on heel and toe efforts.

At $999.00 for a 7-piece set, they are priced extremely competitively for what they offer in today's market. Sadly for the UK audience, they are currently only available in the US at Golf Galaxy and Dick's Sporting Goods, but I am sincerely hoping that changes soon (don’t worry, I will be stamping my feet with the powers that be!), as they are not only extremely good, they are exceptional value.

Now this… this is a product I would have died for roughly five years ago. A launch monitor that doesn’t cost over $300, rejoice!

The GolfBuddy Shot Mate has a simple selling point - it wants to be the best value golf launch monitor on the market, delivering accurate data at an affordable price. The best golf launch monitors can cost thousands, so how does this $230/£150 device stack up to some of the big hitters on the market? I tested it over multiple range sessions and compared it to some of the leading competition to find out.

Beginning with first impressions, nothing should surprise you with the Shot Mate. The body of the monitor is made of plastic and doesn’t feel overly premium, but that is fine; we aren’t shopping near the top end of the price scale. I must add it doesn’t feel like a cheap plastic, rather something that isn’t 'top end'.

In terms of both look and feel, this thing looks great. The red and black color scheme is neat and the kickstand on the back is a welcome design feature. Much like the best portable launch monitors, the Shot Mate takes up very little room in your bag and can be easily transported about due to the lack of weight.

As you can imagine given the price, the screen layout isn’t fancy, but it is dead simple and easy to use. With no app to connect to, you can simply set it down and begin swinging, albeit it must be placed in a slightly raised position a couple of meters behind where you are hitting.

The radar-based system delivers four key metrics; club speed, ball speed, smash factor and total carry/total distance. Clubhead speed here is the key metric for me, meaning this is the perfect companion if you fancy starting some speed training and need something to measure your progress.

A fair amount of manual input is needed for a full range session, but that is fine considering how easy it is to use. You’ll have to manually select each club you are hitting, which is done with a few simple button clicks. There is also a backlight to the screen which can swiftly be turned on and off depending on where you are practising, whilst you can also toggle between MPH and KMH depending on your preferences.

Numbers are calculated by combining spin and launch angle, which can lead to a few wonky numbers from time to time, but you have to expect this from a more affordable device.

During my testing, it tended to be the longer clubs in which some numbers seemed inaccurate. Particularly with the driver and my fairway metals, I had the odd shot (maybe one in ten) where I could tell the number I was fed did not meet reality.

I directly compared the Shot Mate to the Garmin Approach G82, a device over three times the price, to see if it could keep up - and it largely did.

The shorter the club, the greater the accuracy, but the aforementioned longer clubs led to more discrepancies compared to the Garmin. Most yardages were within a yard or two of the Garmin, which was pleasing to see, but the gap widened with the longer clubs.

Nevertheless, this is still an incredibly impressive device that can be used by players of all abilities - it is without doubt one of the best cheap launch monitors you can buy. Single-digit players who have a greater understanding of their distance might want to opt for something more feature-packed, but for the mid-to-high handicappers, regular use of this launch monitor can help shave multiple shots off your handicap.

Having a better idea of how far you hit each club is invaluable to shooting a good score, and buying a device that will help you achieve this has never been more affordable.

This is also the perfect companion for those undertaking speed training - the equipment for such training is already expensive before buying a unit to help to track your speeds. If I were to start and was in need of a device for speed training, this is what I would buy.

So, to conclude, this is a great little launch monitor. Cheap, largely accurate, well-made, easy to use and even easier to transport around. It can be used indoors and outdoors, and you can bring it onto the course with you if you'd like. Apart from the odd outlier number (to be expected at this price point), particularly at the top end of the bag, I find it very hard to find fault with the GolfBuddy Shot Mate.

We are very lucky to have superb working relationships with some of the biggest brands in the sport here at Golf Monthly. The likes of Titleist, TaylorMade, Vessel and more often supply us with some of the best golf bags money can buy for testing, but we also love to give smaller companies their share of the limelight - especially if we like their products!

Step forward Alex and Myles Wheeler, two golf-crazed brothers and the founders of Forge Golf, a UK-based DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) brand. They’ve timed their second-ever release with this year’s Open Championship at Royal Birkdale and the design includes a number of smile-worthy hat tips to the heritage and history of links golf.

Although the bag not associated with the Open Championship on an official basis, each embroidered element on the bag pays homage to links golf, including a maritime print in reference to British maritime heritage and the coastal setting of links golf, as well as the embroidered “Forged For The Links”, a play on words connecting the brand name to a bag built for the links course. There are two more subtle references to Royal Birkdale with the year the course was founded, 1889, embroidered on the carry handle and Southport - 2026 written on the main body of the bag.

As a golf history nerd who has spent his my entire life playing links golf, just like Alex and Myles, I was completely wooed. Striking first impressions aside, is the bag as good as it looks?

In short, yes. The quality of the bag is evident the moment you lift it out of the box. The 14-way fully divided top isn’t my favorite on a golf bag, but the quality is immense and your ears are met with a pleasing ‘thud’ any time you slide your iron back into a slot after each shot.

A big green tick in my review was the two well-placed bottle holders near the ball pocket. I do wish they were slightly bigger as I tend to bring quite large bottles onto the course when I play, but your regular 500ml bottle will sit in here easily and peacefully.

The aforementioned ball pocket and front magnetic pocket are excellent as well, easily housing my golf balls and multiple bags full of tees, ball markers and more (yes, I carry too much in my bag).

The main side pocket is spacious and easy to access, whilst the rain cover that comes included fits in here easily and still gives you plenty of room for any accessories or extra layers you want to bring onto the links with you. All of this wrapped in the blue and yellow colorway synonymous with the oldest championship in golf makes for a hell of a package.

If I had one criticism, it is that the straps squeak a bit as you walk. This may only be an issue with the sample I was sent and could well be fixable - I just wasn’t smart enough to find the solution to this minor quirk.

Considering this, and even though the straps lead to a comfortable walk, I think this bag is best served on a trolley. Be that a push cart, electric trolley or even the back of a golf cart, it is versatile enough to be used in any way you wish.

Forge Golf’s brand mission is clear - small, limited-time releases built around high-end quality and crafted golf bags. Their first release, the Founders Edition bag, was limited to just 50 units, and their Links Edition follows the same formula.

Only 100 units of this bag have been made, and with pre-orders going live on 13th July, you’ll have to be quick to get your hands on one. You can do that by visiting the Forge Golf website.

As the golf equipment market continues to evolve, few brands have truly addressed the dilemma parents face when introducing their children to the game: how to provide high-quality, properly fitted clubs for a rapidly growing junior without breaking the bank every single season.

When a child hits a growth spurt, poorly fitted clubs can ruin their swing mechanics and, more importantly, their enjoyment of the game. I have been testing out the newest solution to this problem - the UpSwing Junior Varsity set - to see if its ambitious claims hold up and if it can rival the best golf club sets for kids.

In terms of the technology story, the main headline here is UpSwing's patented UpTech Golf System. Rather than forcing your junior to choke down on clubs that are too long, or struggle with sets they've vastly outgrown, UpSwing provides patented growth kits that let you change the club length at home in minutes. The entire concept revolves around a simple promise: "One Set. Six Adjustments. Every Stage."

For this review, I (or rather my daughter) received the Junior Varsity 7-club set with bag, which is specifically aimed at the 45" to 51" height range.

Looks-wise, the UpSwing set is an absolute triumph. I have never seen my daughter so excited about golf clubs (and she sees a lot of golf clubs with my job!) - the paint job and graphics really made these incredibly special in her eyes.

UpSwing leans into a "Her Game. Her Galaxy" theme for their girls' lineup, and they have completely nailed the visual appeal. The clubs look incredibly premium, borrowing sleek design cues from high-end adult sets while retaining a fun, youthful energy that immediately draws kids in.

Performance-wise, no surprises here - the clubs deliver exactly what a growing player needs to succeed. The JR Varsity set strikes an ideal balance, remaining highly forgiving and easy to launch while offering enough ‘serious’ playability for juniors ready to take on lessons and competitive events. During our range sessions, my daughter was striking the ball with a noticeable increase in consistency over the cut-down clubs I have previously cobbled together for her. The shafts are tuned for age-appropriate speed, making it much easier for her to get the ball airborne.

What I absolutely loved about the UpTech system was the cleverness of the weighted adapters when going up through the stages of growth, which allows the club to maintain an appropriate swingweight through those growth stages as well as just getting longer. In many standard adjustable systems, simply adding length completely ruins the balance and feel of the club.

However, UpSwing’s proprietary adapters ensure that as your child gets taller and stronger, the club's weight and performance profile adapt proportionately.

Finally, I have to touch upon the accessories. The bag and headcovers in particular are superb quality. Too often, junior sets treat the golf bag as a cheap afterthought, providing flimsy materials and generic designs. UpSwing has done the exact opposite. The stand bag is robust, packed with useful pockets, and remarkably lightweight for smaller shoulders to carry, while the thickly padded headcovers feel incredibly premium and protective.

Overall, can I report a groundbreaking new technology? Yes, I actually can. The UpSwing Junior Varsity set is easily one of the smartest investments you can make in your child's golf journey, taking the guesswork out of sizing and ensuring they are always playing with properly fitted equipment.

When I think of Voice Caddie devices, I think of simplicity. We were fans of the Laser Fit rangefinder two years ago, a device that was minimalist, lightweight and accurate - three great characteristics for any trusty rangefinder.

Well, here is the older brother, the Laser Fit 2. It has undergone a minor cosmetic change but other than that, the premise remains the same. This is a laser designed for simplicity.

It's a classic ‘pick up and shoot’ rangefinder for the speedy player who doesn’t want to have to sign into an app on his or her phone on the first tee, nor do they want club selections, weather-adjusted yardages or a lift home from the pub later that evening. Lightning-quick yardages in a compact build is the selling point here, but has Voice Caddie delivered one of the best golf rangefinders?

I’ll begin by talking about the size of the Laser Fit 2 which, like its predecessor, is very small. It easily fits in the palm of my small-to-medium sized hands and considering the lack of weight (less than 4oz), it should easily fit into one of your pants pockets.

In a time where style is becoming a bigger factor in laser design, Voice Caddie has implemented a unique detachable plastic ring near the top of the lens which they call Color Kit Accessories, allowing you to pick and express your personal style. The catch is they are sold separately, but it's a nice option to have.

From having tried the original Laser Fit, I knew what to expect here in terms of performance and the Laser Fit 2 met those expectations. With a USP of being simple and fast, it has achieved this with flying colors.

Voice Caddie claims yardage feedback takes one tenth of a second and although it’s difficult for me to fact check this, I won’t dispute it - it is indeed very fast.

The 6x optical magnification display is good, not amazing, but keep in mind this laser is in the midfield of the price range. The ‘Ball-to-Pin’ is a useful feature for speedy golfers, allowing you to measure the distance from the ball to the flag without even standing over it - this will be particularly useful for golfers on cart-path-only courses.

Finally, the Pin Tracer technology does an excellent job pinpointing the flag and giving you the correct yardage to your target, especially when there are trees and/or bushes in the background making it harder to get an accurate yardage.

Now for the not-so-good. I think this is the first laser I’ve ever tested that doesn’t come with a carry case which, when we consider the £260 price tag, I find very disappointing.

The combination of the compact size and the lack of a ‘Find My Laser’ feature that I’ve seen on other rangefinders I’ve tested so far this year, massively increases the chances of you losing it on the course or elsewhere. It’s a disaster waiting to happen for those who misplace things regularly.

Compared to other compact lasers I’ve tested like the Bushnell A1-Slope and MGI Sureshot SlimPRO, the build quality doesn’t meet the same standards and feels a little too ‘plasticky’ for my liking.

I get the golfer they are looking to target here, but the rangefinder market is undergoing serious change - golfers no longer have to spend north of £400 for rangefinders with features like club recommendations, plays-like distances and more.

The middle ground of the price scale is now more congested than ever, and I don’t think the Laser Fit 2 (which you can pick up for roughly £249) is winning many ‘tale of the tape’ comparison battles against competing models at the same price. You’ll get more features elsewhere and even if you don’t like them, you don’t have to use them - but at least you have the option.

Don’t let this skepticism take away from the performance here though, this remains a very good laser from a trustworthy brand.

You’ll likely get plenty of years out of the Laser Fit 2 in which you get a couple of helpful features and a device that is as simple as it is accurate, its just that the rapidly changing landscape of the rangefinder market makes it a slightly tougher sell than it would have two or three years ago.

TaylorMade's Tour Response franchise has always been held in high regard in the mid-price, three-piece ball category, suiting those who want reliable performance without paying the premium price tag that comes with some of the best golf balls.

Having tested the previous iterations of this popular ball, I was keen to see how the new 2026 TaylorMade Tour Response stacked up when put to the test both indoors on a Foresight Sports GC3 launch Monitor and out on the golf course.

The big story for the 2026 Tour Response is the introduction of Microcoating technology, which TaylorMade first introduced into the TP5 and TP5x golf balls earlier in the year.

This process sees the application of an ultra-thin paint layer (thinner than a human hair) across the ball's entire surface, reducing any pooling in dimples, which ultimately affects how the ball flies through the air. This helps promote consistent peak heights, reliable distances, and a much tighter dispersion on full shots.

I'll be completely honest - I'm not a huge fan of how large the stripe is on these golf balls. I feel as though it's a little too large, and when using it, I feel my aim is far too vague.

The decreased width of the stripe on the 2026 TP5 and TP5x is exactly what I would want to have seen implemented on these golf balls, as that smaller stripe has really helped me aim more precisely and allowed me to be more diligent when setting up my putts. The stripe is also great for when practicing your putting, helping identify if you’re rolling the ball end-over-end.

One of the primary reasons recreational golfers gravitate to this ball is its feel, and the 2026 model does not disappoint, providing a really soft feel off the face with the driver, irons, and putter.

Thanks to the 100% cast urethane cover, the soft cover genuinely rivals the feel of some of the best premium golf balls on the market, and I feel it gives it a nice edge on similar balls in the price range such as the Srixon Q-Star Tour - of which I took to the studio and the course to compare the performance.

When hitting chips and pitches, that urethane cover on the Tour Response provided exceptional greenside spin, even on firm playing surfaces. It offered brilliant trajectory control and stopping power, and looking at the data from my 50-yard pitch test, the Tour Response edged out the Srixon Q-Star Tour with a spin rate of 7945 rpm compared to the Srixon's 7890 rpm.

The Tour Response also launched slightly higher (30.3° vs. 28.7°), which gave me that quick check-and-stop performance I look for around the greens and made it perfect for when short-sided and playing over bunkers.

Taking both balls indoors and using the GC3 launch monitor, the 2026 Tour Response held its own beautifully, demonstrating its ability to excel in this category and arguably punch a little heavier than its weight.

When testing with my 7-iron, the high-flex SpeedMantle layer within the Tour Response showcased its energy transfer capabilities, producing a touch more speed at 129.2mph, as opposed to the 125.3 of the Q-Star Tour. However, it was the additional spin that caught my attention, with the Tour Response spinning noticeably more (6631 rpm compared to 6290 rpm).

Due to the higher spin, the carry distance was a fraction shorter at 182.1 yards versus 183.4 yards for the Srixon, but I did see the ball falling at a noticeably steeper descent angle. I’ll happily sacrifice a single yard of carry for the added stopping power that the 6600+ rpm spin provides, particularly in the summer.

Off the tee, the Tour Response's Speed Wrapped Core - a soft inner core with a progressively firmer outer layer - did its job in generating fast ball speeds, very comparable to some of the premium balls I have tested this year, such as the Callaway Chrome Tour and its elder sibling, the TP5.

I clocked ball speeds of 167.9 mph with the Tour Response, compared to 164.8 mph with the Q-Star Tour with my driver. This little boost in speed, combined with a slightly lower launch (13.9°) but a towering peak height of 125 feet, gave me a carry distance of 291.3 yards - nearly two yards longer than the Srixon.

Now don’t get me wrong, two yards isn’t much to shout about, but with a little more spin and a touch higher flight, I felt a little more in control of the Tour Response.

When comparing the Tour Response to the TP5, I was seeing around 800rpm more with a 7-iron and around 400rpm more with the driver, which is what saw it lose around 13 yards of carry compared to the brand's premier model (291 yards vs 304 yards). Other than that, the short game control felt very comparable, and there was little to no difference when it comes to the face off the putter.

TaylorMade has managed to refine an already excellent golf ball and make this ball a serious proposition for those wanting tour-level performance at a considerably cheaper price point - $45/£39 for the Stripe model.

The introduction of Microcoating on these balls alongside the TP5 and TP5x golf balls shows just how dedicated the TaylorMade team is to producing a reliable and more affordable golf ball, and the narrowed Stripe design is a massive improvement for visual alignment.

If you are looking for a three-piece ball that produces fast ball speeds, towering iron shots, and offers plenty of short game control all at a reasonable price point, the 2026 TaylorMade Tour Response should be firmly on your radar.

As someone who tests a lot of golf technology and regularly uses launch monitors during practice, I’m always on the lookout for products that enhance by experience at an affordable price.

When the original Square Golf launch monitor arrived on the scene, it turned heads with its affordability, but it was limited to indoor use and lacked some premium data metrics. The Omni launch monitor has been designed addressing those shortcomings in mind.

Coming to market at just £1,599.99, this second-generation unit promises tour-level accuracy thanks to a quad-camera infrared tracking system, as well as seamless indoor-and-outdoor versatility, ideal for those wanting an at-home simulator experience while still wanting real-time feedback when at the driving range.

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it to see if it truly is the best value launch monitor on the market.

Out of the box, the Omni comes with a folding tripod stand, a removable lithium-ion battery that lasts for around six hours at a time, a short alignment stick for calibration, and the reflective stickers you need for your clubface and shafts in order to track club data.

The technology packed into this relatively compact launch monitor surprised me. It means you don't need specially-marked balls to get accurate data indoors, or worry about having enough room behind the ball that many radar-based launch monitors require.

It captures pretty much all of the key metrics you would need, including ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, spin axis, carry distance, clubhead speed, smash factor, face angle and attack angle.

I tested the Omni extensively, splitting my time between my indoor simulator setup and outdoors at the driving range. I compared the ball flight data against my Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor, which I use for all of my testing, and indoors, the numbers were nearly identical.

I had absolutely no issues with questionable reads or shots not getting picked up, however, outdoors it did struggle a little. It may have been direct sunlight affecting the cameras, but I saw significant discrepancies in the data, and at times with the long irons, the device produced numbers up to 20 yards short of the distance I would usually see that ball travel.

One of the headline features of the Omni is its built-in LCD screen, which displays six core ball metrics immediately after impact. In theory, this should allow for practice sessions without having to sync up the monitor to your phone or tablet, however, in practice, I ran into a bit of a physical hurdle.

If not using a tablet or phone, I found the screen on the monitor too low, and it was annoying having to crouch down to read the data after every single swing. It’s a minor gripe, but something to keep in mind if you prefer to practice entirely device-free or even have trouble constantly bending down.

Another thing that bugged me, and was more apparent when leaving the studio where I did my indoor testing, was the fact that there was no travel case included. Therefore, unless you were transporting the device in the box - which would be inconvenient - then you would simply have to carry the device by hand or put it in your golf bag, where it would be at risk of damage.

The Omni launch monitor comes with 1,000 free credits for Square Golf’s app. It is free to download and is split into distinct practice areas - a traditional Driving Range (complete with day and night environments), a Data Mode for when you're purely using the monitor to work on your yardages or specific launch conditions, as well as closest-to-the-pin challenges.

There's also a highly customizable Putting Practice setup, which allows you to practice putting and simulate greens quicker than you are putting on, using the screen on your tablet or mobile. Most impressively, the Game Mode lets you tee it up on 22 different virtual 3D courses with up to four players - in my opinion, the best feature if you can set this up at home.

The software is functional but definitely the weakest part of the overall package, but fear not, as the launch monitor can be integrated with third-party apps like GSPro, E6 Connect, and Awesome Golf, which are far more advanced and user-friendly.

Overall, my time spent with the Square Golf Omni left me impressed, yet wishing a little more thought had gone into the practicalities. At £1,599, you certainly can’t argue with the affordability compared to some of its premium competitors. However, I would likely only recommend this launch monitor to those who will solely use it indoors.

With the mini driver sector remaining one of the most exciting growth areas in golf equipment, Tour Edge has thrown its hat into the ring with the Exotics Mini Driver. Having extensively tested its direct rivals, I was keen to see how this somewhat more budget-friendly option would stack up.

Aesthetically, there is plenty to admire. At address, I really enjoy the overall shaping of the 280cc head, and the modern, carbon crown frames the ball beautifully. However, as is my recurring gripe with a lot of Tour Edge clubs, the lack of a traditional plastic ferrule above the adjustable adapter creates an unnecessarily clunky transition from the clubhead to the shaft. It’s a minor detailing issue, but one that disrupts an otherwise premium look.

Furthermore, you need to be aware of how the head sits. Visually, it looks very flat, with the toe noticeably falling away from you as you address the ball. If your natural miss is a hook, this anti-left visual will likely look like an absolute dream. But for those of us whose standard miss is an 'over fade', it presents a somewhat scary proposition before you’ve even started your backswing.

From a tech point of view, Tour Edge is utilizing ‘Combo Brazing’ technology - a high-precision bonding process that fuses an ultra-thin titanium face to a heavy stainless steel body. By eliminating the structural gaps found in typical multi-piece designs, it promises maximum energy transfer.

This is paired with its new Pyramid Face Technology to optimize ball speed and forgiveness across the face, while the lightweight carbon fiber crown lowers the CG to maximize stability and MOI.

In terms of performance, I really enjoyed the Exotics Mini. Feel-wise, it is exceptionally good; the acoustic signature is a little more subdued than the PXG Secret Weapon, for example, but the sensation off the face is no less explosive.

More impressively, when tested in the exact same loft configuration as its market rivals, it produced extremely comparable ball speeds and carry numbers - a serious achievement given that it comes in at upwards of £100 cheaper than the competition.

Interestingly, the head somehow felt and looked visually bigger than its stated 280cc size. While this added a welcome dose of confidence when sitting on a tee peg, to my eye it lent itself to slightly easier performance from the tee as opposed to off the fairway, where the footprint felt just a touch bulkier than some alternatives on the market such as the Titleist GT 280.

Out on the course, however, I couldn't entirely get away from a fairly persistent right start line during testing. I managed to straighten the ball flight out somewhat by shifting the adjustable sleeve to the upright setting, but even that adjustment only really got the head looking closer to a standard lie as opposed to truly upright, and threw the shaft graphics into a slightly annoying visual orientation.

Curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to measure the club on a spec gauge. Unsurprisingly, it came in at a very flat measured lie angle of 56°. For context, the TaylorMade r7 Quad mini driver sits at 57°, the Callaway Quantum mini is 57°, and the PXG Secret Weapon sits much more upright at 58°. Just something to bear in mind.

In summary, the Tour Edge Exotics Mini Driver represents a really interesting proposition. It is a mini driver coming in upwards of £100 cheaper than everything else on the shelves, yet it refuses to compromise on great feel, ball speed, and raw carry distance.

It is well worth an audit for anyone looking to optimize their long game on a budget - just be fully aware that if your typical miss is to the right, this might not be the one for you.

The Exotics Mini Driver is available for retail at $399 or £307 and is available in either 11.5˚ or 13.5˚ loft options.

We're now used to some of the best golf shoes of the modern era being more trainer-style (or sneaker for my North American friends) models. Adidas, Nike, Under Armour and others have been busy taking some of the best off-course styles and making them golf-appropriate.

New Balance is another brand that has been smashing it out of the park from this perspective. With the likes of the 997 SL and 574 Greens V2 hitting the course over the last few years, I was very excited to see my favourite New Balance style, the 550, get the golf treatment.

I must first quell the notion that shoes like this are built exactly the same as the on-street shoe with a golf outsole slapped on the bottom. While the upper design is an uncanny difference from the non-golf option, a specially designed outsole, waterproof upper and reinforcements in the heel area have been added to make it more suitable for golf than if you just picked a pair of 550s up from Schuh (other shoe shops are available.)

All that being said, and as nice as these shoes are to wear, they will not provide the same levels of support and performance that purpose-built spikeless shoes like the Under Armour Drive Pro Clone SL or Ecco Biom C5, for example. So, bear this in mind when considering whether something like the 550 SL is right for you.

The outsole is more golf-specific than the original, and offers solid grip in both the dry and damp/greasy conditions I've been able to test them in so far. I've not tested them in seriously wet conditions yet, but like all outsoles on these styles of shoes, they're likely not to perform as well as the best spiked golf shoe or a spikeless outsole like the one on the FootJoy Pro/SL 2026 I tested this year.

I've not got much to say about the look; they're a pair of 550s - simple as that. Released in the late 80s as a low-top basketball shoe, it took until the early 2020s for the style to come back into favour in New Balance's stable after a collaboration with Aime Leon Dore brought it back into relevance. Since then, the 550 has been one of the most popular lifestyle shoes on the market.

One note on sizing, they come up a full size small on me. My normal UK 8 fits much better in a UK 9, so bear this in mind before you purchase, or try and find a local store where you can try on a few different options.

At £119, there is stunning value on offer here, considering how much wear you'll be able to get from these. On the course for more casual rounds, in the bar afterwards, and in pretty much any setting off the golf course you see fit, there is a place for the 550s. I'm thrilled New Balance has brought such a great trainer style onto the golf course, and am even more thrilled with how well they've executed it.

It's not been a vintage year for Adidas golf shoes, in my opinion. The new Adipower was an overall disappointment due to its brash looks and funky fit, while the new colourways in the excellent S2G SL are just that, new colourways and not a new shoe.

Of course, the Tour360 24 is still very much one of the best golf shoes on the market, but nothing has really got me excited about the new releases in 2026. That was until the new MC70 arrived on my doorstep.

MC stands for modern classic, the same moniker we saw on the excellent MC80 golf shoe from a couple of years ago. The MC70 differs in that it offers a spiked outsole rather than spikeless (though you can get the MC70 SL, which is spikeless), and arrives at a very attractive price point to boot.

Indeed, in a world where these more classic styled spiked shoes top well over £200 from the likes of the FootJoy Premiere Series Packard or Payntr Eighty Seven SC, to see the MC70 at £115 is incredibly refreshing. But were any corners cut to hit this more affordable price tag?

From a design point of view, all the notes have been hit. The silhouette is beautiful, while the detailing on the saddle of the shoe (here in green on the colourway I tested) adds another new texture for the eyes to feast on. Add to that the white stitching on the green banner running just above the midsole, and you have a stunning-looking pair of golf shoes.

Unlike the aforementioned Adiboost shoe, the MC70 isn't overly branded either. Bar the small three stripes logo up toward the top of the saddle, you wouldn't really know this is an adidas shoe.

Sure, the upper material isn't as premium as some of its counterparts (you can't expect that for a shoe of this price), but the leather/synthetic blend delivers the right balance of comfort, performance and waterproofing.

The MC70 uses adidas' Boost foam in the midsole (my favourite of the three midsole foams the brand uses in its golf shoes), as well as Lightstrike technology, offering the right balance between solidity and rebound for performance as well as the softness you need for walking comfort over the nearly 13,000 steps golfers average during a round.

The outsole utilises six cleats, two on the heel and four further forward. I could argue this is another cost-saving measure, especially considering the eight or nine utilised on most of the best spiked shoes. It probably is, but in all honesty, it's a more than functional outsole for all conditions. It definitely isn't as low profile as something like the Payntr Eighty Seven SC, which does a fantastic job of disguising the spikes on its outsole.

Overall, this is a well-designed, high-performing and pretty golf shoe at an excellent price point. If the classic look is something you're after but you've been put off by the higher price points of other brands, adidas may well have you perfectly covered with the new MC70.

Getting older comes with plenty of aches, but for a golfer, the absolute worst pain is watching your tee shots get shorter. Creeping into my late 40s, I realized I was suddenly hitting more club into par-3s and failing to clear hazards that used to be a non-issue.

I had almost accepted my fate and resolved to work on my short game — until a medal round at Banchory Golf Club changed everything. Playing with a +4 handicapper friend, I watched him drive the 366-yard 5th hole on the flat. He had gained a staggering 25 yards off the tee since our last game, averaging over 170mph ball speed. His secret? The Stack System.

Famously used by Matt Fitzpatrick to find the extra gear needed to win a Major, it is a speed training system built on dynamic data. Frustrated by feeling like a feeble old man out there, I went straight home and ordered one. To be clear: I paid for this equipment out of my own pocket. While options like Rypstick or SuperSpeed exist, I opted for The Stack purely because I saw proof of its success firsthand.

What is The Stack System? At its core, The Stack consists of a single club shaft equipped with a sensor and an assortment of interchangeable, threaded metal weights (up to 300g). However, the hardware isn't the real story here; the true superpower is the associated app and training program that comes with it.

Included in the box is a specialized speed radar that pairs seamlessly with your mobile device to track and chart your progress. The app functions as a highly intelligent personal trainer. My testing ground was my back garden, setting the speed radar and phone on an old bucket on the lawn.

A quick tip would be to put your golf shoes and a glove on before starting. You are swinging at maximum intensity, and you need real grip to prevent slipping. Every single session kicks off with a mandatory 16-minute warm-up. It involves challenging stretching that is absolutely crucial to the process.

Once loose, the app guides you through various weight configurations. Giving these swings max intensity forces your brain to realize your body can move faster, engraining that speed into your nervous system.

I am only seven sessions into the program, but the data and real-world results have blown me away. After two weeks (7 sessions) my potential driver speed has increased to 104mph and my potential distance with driver has gone up from 256 yards to 280 yards… That is potential of course and, you have to take into account that, as with anything, you get more proficient at swinging the Stack itself as you do more sessions.

But - I played a match on Tuesday night, and I have no doubt I was hitting the ball a good 10 yards further from the tee. My playing partner commented on it. I’ve also picked up 2 to 3 yards of carry with my 7-iron.

The regular stretching allows my upper body to rotate much more freely. To move the heavier weight configurations effectively, you cannot simply thrash at it with your arms. It forces you to engage your core, back, and legs.

It may still be the honeymoon period, but I am entirely convinced. Instead of dropping hundreds on a new driver for a heavily marketed "one or two yards" of factory technology, investing in physically training your body to move faster is the smarter play. I’ll report back later in the year to see if these gains hold over the long term, but for now, the clock on my aging game has officially been turned back.

Biro, Aspirin, Hoover and Band-Aid are just a few examples of what is called genericisations, the linguistic and legal process where a brand name becomes the common, everyday term for an entire category of products.

One could argue that 'Cube' has very nearly become one in the golf push cart space. So many brands, most notably Motocaddy, utilise this name and this folding mechanism in the best push carts that it has become synonymous with the category as a whole.

One brand I hadn't heard of prior to a sample arriving on my doorstep is Wishbone. It has just released the third generation of its Cube push cart - the Cube Three - to the UK market, looking to chip into the more established brands' push cart market share.

Retailing at £189.99 in the UK (though I've seen it closer to £169), it's certainly on the more budget side of the overall push cart market, so I was intrigued to take it out onto the golf course.

First impressions were strong. The Cube Three is easy to set up out of the box and has a premium, uncluttered design that suggests a much higher price tag than the one you'll actually pay for it.

At 7.8kg, it's slap bang in the middle of the market in terms of overall weight. Whereas the likes of the Big Max Blade IP 2 (6.5kg) and the PowaKaddy Micra (7.5kg) are lighter, the Motocaddy QB2 (9.5kg) and the Clicgear 4.0 (8.5kg) come in heavier than the Cube Three.

The folding mechanism is incredibly simple and, most importantly, quick. Once the front wheel is folded under, the rest of the chassis collapses in on itself to form the now familiar cube shape of a push cart. Size-wise, when folded, it's nearly identical to the likes of the PowaKaddy Micra and the original Motocaddy Cube, making it perfect for storage in tight car boots or even some locker spaces. It even had a convenient carry handle, making it all that bit easier to lift in and out of the car.

On the golf course, the Cube Three is solid without being spectacular. It's compatible with pretty much any cart bag, and the bungee straps have plenty of give and adjustability on them.

The handle storage is good too, and I like that it comes with a built-in drinks holder, rather than having to get an attachment for it. It's far more subtle and classy in my opinion.

Strangely, the handle had quite a lot of give even when it was securely locked in place. It felt a little flimsy, especially when turning sharp corners. Alongside the parking brake lever that looks and feels a little vulnerable to more than a year's consistent use, I could see and feel where perhaps Wishbone has decided to opt for cheaper parts on this ultimately cheaper-than-most product.

That being said, Motocaddy's QB2 isn't all that much more expensive than the Cube Three, likewise the PowaKaddy Micra, both of which, for my money, have a slightly better build quality. All in all, as pretty and functional as the Cube Three is, it hasn't done enough for me to recommend it any more highly than the main competition. Unless it can be found for even less than the £169 I've seen it online for, I'd say the marginal extra investment at the start will pay dividends in the long run.

The electric golf trolley market is currently awash with cutting-edge technology, from sprawling high-definition touchscreens to remote controls and follow-me functions. However, not every golfer wants their trolley to feel like a supercomputer, nor do they want to pay the premium price tag that inevitably accompanies those features. Enter the PowaKaddy FX1.

Positioned comfortably as the entry-level model in the hugely popular FX range, it has been engineered specifically to offer straightforward, no-nonsense functionality. It's directly up against the Motocaddy SE electric trolley, in terms of competition.

When I unboxed the FX1 ahead of my first round, my initial impression was focused entirely on how good it looks. Often, when you opt for the base model in any product line, you are instantly reminded of the compromises you made to save some cash. That simply isn't the case here. For an 'entry-level' trolley, the aesthetic is very premium. I really enjoyed the stealth matte black finish, and the high gloss trims really helped it pop in the sunlight when sitting on the first tee.

Because it shares the exact same high-performance, low-profile Powaframe chassis as the rest of the FX family, it doesn't look remotely out of place parked next to flagship models.

Where the FX1 truly shines is in its everyday practicality. Before heading out, I was eager to test the setup process, as fighting with a heavy, awkward frame in a muddy car park is never the ideal start to a round of golf.

I can confidently report that this is one of the easier trolleys I have used for folding and unfolding. PowaKaddy’s 1-Click Fold frame system entirely lives up to its name; it requires minimal effort to engage and collapses down 20% smaller than previous generations, saving valuable trunk space.

Once unfolded, dropping the power source in is completely hassle-free thanks to the 30v ‘Plug 'n' Play’ battery system, which completely eliminates fiddly wires.

Another brilliant touch is the unique MAG-LOK bag attachment system. If you use a compatible PowaKaddy cart bag, an ultra-strong neodymium magnet securely locks the base of the bag onto the trolley, meaning you don't even need to bend down to fasten a lower strap.

Taking the FX1 out onto the fairways is a refreshingly simple experience. The controls consist of an anti-tamper dial and a single LED power indicator. You simply turn the rotary controller to your preferred walking pace, and the handy pause and resume function means you can stop at your golf ball to play your shot, then pull off again at the exact same speed.

Under the hood, the powerful 30v 230-watt motor is whisper-quiet but had absolutely no issue traversing the steeper inclines and thicker rough during my testing.

While it lacks a built-in digital screen, PowaKaddy certainly hasn’t left modern golfers in the dark. The USB-C charging point is a smart feature for both phones and external GPS devices, ensuring you won't run out of battery on your handheld tech as you navigate the back nine. It also features a scorecard and pencil holder integrated neatly into the height-adjustable soft-touch handle.

Ultimately, my time testing this model left me thoroughly impressed. If you are not someone (like myself) after the frills of GPS and follow technology etc and you are just looking for a simple to use, easy to set up, and sensibly priced electric trolley to take the strain off your back, then the FX1 covers your needs perfectly. It proves conclusively that stripped-back simplicity doesn't have to mean sacrificing build quality, reliability, or style.

It's fair to say that L.A.B. Golf has completely changed the landscape of the putter market over the last couple of years since the induction of its Lie Angle Balanced technology, which has since led to a meteoric surge in production of zero torque putters from pretty much all of the major manufacturers.

Since the monumental success of the DF3 and the release of the Adam Scott-inspired OZ.1i, the brand has been on a mission to bring its performance traits to a wider array of visual profiles. Following the launch of the Link 2.1 and 2.2 earlier in the year, we’re now treated to a mid-mallet profile in the shape of the VZN.1i - a putter that takes alignment and feel to an entirely new level.

As someone who tests the best putters released as and when they come to the market, I’ve been privy to all the latest designs, inserts, and milling patterns on faces offering a fairly large variety in feel and acoustics.

The DF3i and the OZ.1i thoroughly impressed me with the addition of their stainless-steel milled inserts, however, when I learned about the newly optimized design of the VZN.1i and a refined deep milled face, I couldn't have been more excited to get it out on the course and see how it performed on the greens.

Visually, the VZN.1i is a futuristic mallet that boasts a fairly substantial footprint, but it’s the clever geometry that sets this model apart from many other zero-torque putters on the market. Sitting behind the ball, there is a little square cutout that acts as a visual cue, and is something I found that makes squaring the face at address feel nearly automatic.

When you combine that cutout with the parallel and perpendicular crown lines, you have a putter that feels really easy to line up to your target when rested down at address. I found the head framed the ball perfectly, and the T-bar alignment aid on the top of the head made centering the ball seem effortless. It removed all the guesswork from my setup, allowing me to trust my lines instantly and free up my stroke.

The VZN.1i putter features a deeper mill on its insert than what we see on either the DF3i or the OZ.1i, and while I liked the previous insert, it felt a little firm and fiery off the face at times.

Typically, when you go to a deeper mill, the ball feels softer due to less surface area making contact with the golf ball, and while this was the case with this putter, it got the ball rolling quickly enough and meant I didn’t feel as though I had to consciously smash longer putts to get them to the hole.

My pace control from 20 to 30 feet was exceptional right out of the gate, and it felt like the ball hugged the green as soon as it left the face rather than bobbling before skidding. This was even the case on putts struck towards the heel and toe, making it one of the most forgiving putters I've had the chance to test recently.

Of course, the engine of the VZN.1i remains as L.A.B. Golf's patented Lie Angle Balance technology. The putter simply wants to stay square throughout the stroke, which meant I could rely on using my larger muscles and simply rock my shoulders to set the stroke in motion.

This provided solid consistency, especially on straight putts inside 10 feet, and gave me a genuine feeling of confidence despite it being my first time with this putter on the golf course.

As is standard with L.A.B. Golf, the putters are meticulously hand-balanced. Stock models are generally available for $499/£499, while taking advantage of the brilliant custom options (including specific alignment cues, head colors, and upgraded shafts) starts at $599.

The precision craftsmanship does mean slightly longer lead times than buying off the rack, but trust me, getting a putter perfectly tailored to your stroke is absolutely worth the wait.

As an equipment tester, every now and then, a product arrives on the doorstep that stops you dead in your tracks, and I can say without a shadow of a doubt that the Ore Golf Foundry Edition irons may be the coolest-looking set of irons I have ever been sent to test.

In an era where complex computer-generated technology is packed into almost every clubhead on the market, the minimalist, robust look of the Foundry Edition irons has been executed staggeringly well.

From an 'in the bag' perspective, these irons are genuinely captivating. The hand-finished, acid-etched, pre-patina finish is nothing short of extraordinary and somehow looks even better in person.

More than just a visual treat, they may, weirdly, be the most appealing iron to touch ever made! The raw 1020 carbon steel leaves a kind of rough, powdery sensation; I simply can't put them down.

However, it is when you set them down behind the ball that the Foundry Edition truly shines. The look at address is stunning, framed by well-thought-out angles and razor-sharp lines. You get precisely 0.0mm offset in the 7-iron down to the pitching wedge, but don’t worry, they go up to a whopping(!) 0.5mm in the longer irons. It is a terrifyingly beautiful profile.

The allure doesn’t stop at the clubheads. A beautiful nod to golf’s golden era, the genuine leather wrap grips add undeniable character. Far from just a retro gimmick, they are a genuinely premium addition to the overall prestige of these remarkable irons.

In terms of performance, let's get one thing straight: if you are looking for any 'help', then look elsewhere.

These are unapologetically demanding and have been crafted with the requirement for pin-point ball striking in mind - you'll find no tungsten, hollow bodies, or perimeter weighting looking out for your best interests here.

Furthermore, unlike many modern irons that tend to bunch in loft, the Ore blades go up in consistent 4˚ increments from the 47˚ pitching wedge. This results in a very modestly lofted 7-iron of 35˚, so manipulated distance isn't on the menu here either.

For context, my current 7-iron (Cobra 3DP MB) flies 177 yards for me, and this went little more than 170, but that is far from the point.

The impact feel is every bit as soft and clean as I had hoped and imagined when you find the middle. But stray from the center of the face and you don't need to be Sherlock Holmes to solve the mystery of where impact occurred; your hands will do that for you! It is a pure, unadulterated, and refreshingly unfiltered connection between player and club.

Frankly, I love the whole vibe and concept here; it is like a journey back in time, offering up a completely different and refreshing way of looking at the game and specifically the equipment you use for the job.

As I have said many times on the Kick Point podcast, I think a lot of golfers would do well to consider what they genuinely want to get out of the game.

For years, marketing teams have rammed 'optimal performance' down our throats with promises of tighter dispersion, more distance, and AI-driven specs - but many players just aren't in it for that. For some, the score is secondary.

Many of us, despite what we’re told to think, don’t care about optimizing data. We are in it for the sheer satisfaction of one pure strike, or the feeling of looking down at a club that evokes genuine emotion rather than a soulless piece of tech designed to mask our flaws.

If that concept resonates with you, then I can't think of many more fun clubs to look down on than these.

You should, however, be aware that the Ore Golf Foundry Edition irons are severely limited in quantity (with only 50 sets available worldwide), so if they have piqued your interest, I wouldn’t dawdle. If you do decide to take the plunge, in my opinion, they are incredibly modestly priced at $999 for the exceptional craftsmanship and visuals on offer here.

Whether you would choose to use them in your club championship, or purchase them as a collectable or 'office piece' is a matter for your own psyche, but, whatever your preference, they will no doubt be enjoyed in any capacity they are employed.

In its attempt to go from scrappy underdogs to serious players at the big table, Blue Tees has gone all out in 2026. As part of its new ‘ecosystem’, it is releasing two lasers, the Playmaker + GPS Watch, the Player+ GPS Speaker and a budget launch monitor, the Rainmaker.

To dine at the big table, it has to deliver some of the best golf rangefinders and best golf watches to do so, and having already reviewed the bigger brother of the two new rangefinders, the Captain Pro, the brand is off to a great start. Now it is time to see how the little brother performs.

Like the Captain Pro, features are plentiful with the Captain Air, which is also a ‘smart’ rangefinder. This means you have to connect it to the Blue Tees app and start your round on there before you tee off, but it is worth it.

Once connected, you get GPS yardages to the front and back of greens in addition to your yardage for shooting the flag. You’ll also get aerial views of the hole ahead of you on the app as well as green maps with the Advanced Analytics Package subscription (more on this later), plus shot tracking, club recommendations, shot dispersion and accuracy data and additional app features.

We’re not done there. You’re treated to a good (but not amazing) x6 LCD display, IP65 dust and water resistance build and a high-quality carry case that both looks brilliant and, in my opinion, is far better than the one you get on the Captain Pro.

As a simple ‘pick up and shoot’ laser, the Captain Air does all the things you would want. Although the display isn’t as good as the Captain Pro’s OLED x7 magnification, it’s still very solid and is helped by the contrast of the fairly dull but effective red/black detailing.

The build quality is excellent, similar to previous Blue Tees interactions like the Ultra Series 4 and Series 3 Max, plus it passes the eye test as a genuinely attractive-looking laser, if that is of any importance to you.

Switch on, connect to the app and things get really fun If you’re changing elevation, most rangefinders will account for that with a ‘slope-adjusted’ yardage, but Blue Tees take this feature and inject it with steroids using ‘True Distance Adjusted Yardages’.

Through the app, your yardage is automatically adjusted with factors like slope, wind, elevation and even temperature to give you a true number that takes everything into account.

I’m always a little skeptical about lasers that factor in weather conditions, but the Captain Air seemed bang on the money during my testing.

I must make you aware that these bells and whistles require a subscription, but the cost is fairly reasonable. I too tend to roll my eyes at subscriptions, but at $49 a year or $99 for three years, the cost is modest for what you get.

Even when you factor in the base cost and add the subscription price to it, the Captain Air is exceptional value compared to similar models at this price range. The likes of the Bushnell A1-Slope, Shot Scope Pro L5, Vistaget Golvia Pro and the Motocaddy Pro 5000 linger around the $250, and the Captain Air is superior to all of them in terms of features.

Where I am left confused is the price compared to the Captain Pro. The Air is only $50 cheaper, so is the difference worth paying the extra that is needed? In short, yes.

Although I prefer the Air case to the one you get with the Pro, the Pro is better against the elements with its IP67 protection compared to the Air’s IP65 protection. As mentioned, the display on the Air is good, but the Captain Pro’s OLED display is much brighter and x7 magnification is a lot better. These two things alone are worth the extra investment in my eyes.

There is one thing that is holding back both rangefinders however - I mentioned it in my Captain Pro review - the app needs work. It’s fairly slow and I experienced connectivity issues with both rangefinders during testing.

If you’re marketing your whole ecosystem through an app, it best be a good one. We aren’t quite there with the Blue Tees app yet, but I’m confident it will be improved as time goes on.

So there you have it, yet another very impressive release from Blue Tees. Of the two members of its cutting-edge ecosystem we’ve tested, it has gone two for two in terms of winners. Even with the slightly confusing price tag compared to the Captain Pro, the Air (£199.99) is an excellent option and a positive sign of things to come from the brand in 2026. Watch this space.

It is always exciting to test a brand-new golf shoe, especially when a fresh name enters the market. Lately, we've seen traditional athletic labels like New Balance make a real impression on the course by effortlessly blending casual streetwear with technical design.

Now, Autry is executing that exact same playbook. The Texas brand, famous for its 1980s court roots, has modified its most famous vintage sneaker into a specialised golf model called the Autry Golf Low.

When you open the box of a brand-new shoe, you are always hoping for that immediate "wow" factor. Unboxing these, I definitely got a distinct sense of, "Well, this is different."

Even without knowing anything about the brand's court heritage, the silhouette heavily resembles a vintage tennis shoe. However, I quickly noticed the premium quality of the leather and the neat double-stitching detail. It feels extremely well-built, which should provide excellent durability on the course.

The inner lining is very soft, and I like the rubber tab that seals the foam-filled tongue, complete with a raised logo. This spikeless shoe comes in three colour options, and the white and black version is really smart.

It comes packaged with useful branded backpack and a separate pair of light beige laces that complement the shading around the heel collar. Personally, though, I think the black laces make them look unique, especially when paired with the ventilated toe box.

When I first slipped them on, I had that immediate, satisfying feeling you get when a shoe fits exactly right. As a regular UK size 6, they did not disappoint. The cushioned interior features a subtle heel lift that delivers a lovely spring in your step and keeps your feet feeling fresh.

This comfort is elevated by Alpha Skin technology, a micro-porous membrane that keeps water out but allows heat and sweat to escape so the shoe never feels like a sauna. The breathability of the ventilated toe box makes it even better, easily making this one of the most comfortable golf shoes for women.

They aren’t as lightweight as some other spikeless golf shoes on the market, like the Ecco Street Vibe, FootJoy Quantum, or Puma Avant 2, but the comfort more than makes up for it.

What really stands out is the bottom of the shoe. It features one of the sturdiest soles I have ever seen on a spikeless model, boasting a distinctive tread packed with pronounced geometric cleats. This outsole guarantees you won’t slide around and when testing them out, I felt completely in control from the ground up on all my shots.

If you want a luxuriously crafted shoe with modern styling that doesn’t skimp on comfort or performance, this is a top contender for the best women’s golf shoes of 2026.

New Balance continues to extend its golf offering, showing how a traditional athletic brand can make a real impression in the golf space.

Their lifestyle-infused golf shoes continue to grow in popularity, like the performance-led Fresh Foam Contend V3. The 327 in particular has become a firm favourite, so I was keen to see how this model in a striking new colourway for 2026 shaped up as one of the best women’s spikeless golf shoes.

Officially called Sea Salt with White, this colourway is highlighted with light purple accents. The laces and the lining are a vibrant purple, as is the outside edge of the oversized, synonymous ‘N’ logo on the outer side. On the inner side towards the back, ‘New Balance’ is spelled out in purple text.

Yes, it looks exactly like a lifestyle sneaker, and I love that. The detailing on the front is fantastic, featuring a mix of materials, including a premium suede-like fabric by the eyelets and heel.

The brown NDurance spikeless rubber outsole extends upward at the front to protect the toe and wraps up the back of the heel. The extended heel sole isn’t the most attractive look from behind, but as you can't see it when wearing them, it’s not an issue!

I also like that it’s a pretty low-profile shoe compared to chunkier alternatives on the market, such as FootJoy's Pulse and Under Armour's Halo Hybrid golf shoe.

On the foot, it has a very neat, compact look, and it feels incredibly secure. The back of the heel comes up quite high, which initially made me worry about blisters, but the material was soft enough to provide support without any rubbing. The plush softness of the tongue is another major plus.

Performance-wise, the waterproof microfibre leather upper offers excellent all-weather protection, and I found the Molded Cush+ insole coupled with the EVA midsole delivered ultra-soft, lightweight all-day comfort. One crucial tip, you definitely need to go up half a size, as they run small.

It’s an interesting looking rubber sole, with New Balance written in white across the middle of it, and to be honest, I was impressed at what a reliable job it does. I felt completely grounded over my shots when playing from a variety of lies. Overall, it is easy to see why the 327 has become so popular, as it combines golf performance and lifestyle beautifully as one of the most comfortable golf shoes for women that you can easily wear anywhere.

The Skechers Slip-ins Blade Tour is aimed at golfers who want tour-level grip and stability without sacrificing comfort or convenience during long days on the course. With so many spikeless options dominating the market, I was interested to see whether this spiked design had what it takes to compete with the best women's golf shoes of 2026.

I tested the white and silver version, and while it's a smart-looking shoe, it isn't one that screams for attention. The design is fairly plain, with subtle silver/grey detailing adding a bit of interest to an otherwise understated look. The synthetic Clarino upper has a leather-like appearance and feel, helping it look more premium than some synthetic golf shoes.

What it lacks in some of the flair that shoes like G/Fore's G.112 Kiltie or New Balance's Fresh Foam Contend V3 offer, it makes up for in practicality. The upper is fully waterproof and comes with a one-year waterproof warranty, making it a sensible option for golfers who play in all conditions.

Of course, the headline feature is the Slip-ins technology. Skechers has built a reputation around making shoes you can simply step into, and I was keen to see whether it actually worked. The answer is yes. I could slip them on and off with ease, and the Heel Pillow held my foot securely in place once inside. It genuinely removes the usual struggle of putting golf shoes on. If only there was someone around to tie the laces for me!

Comfort is one of the areas where Skechers traditionally performs well, and the Blade Tour continues that trend. I'm normally a size 6, and I found these came up quite roomy around my toes. Thankfully, half sizes are available, which should help women who prefer a more precise fit. Despite the extra room, my feet never felt like they were moving around inside the shoe too much, so I was still able to get a good sense of the overall comfort levels.

The Arch Fit insole system is one of the shoe's key technologies, designed to provide additional support through the arch and promote a more comfortable walking experience. I don't suffer from any foot issues and don't particularly need enhanced arch support, so it's difficult for me to judge just how beneficial that feature would be for golfers who do. What I can say is that the shoe felt comfortable throughout my round, with plenty of cushioning underfoot thanks to the ECO FLIGHT midsole and HYPER BURST PRO sock liner.

One area that really impressed me was the traction. I wear a lot of the best women's spikeless golf shoes, largely because of their versatility and comfort, so it was refreshing to put on a spiked model and feel properly locked into the ground during the swing. The replaceable Softspikes Tour Flex Pro outsole delivers excellent grip, particularly when swinging aggressively off the tee, or playing on softer surfaces. The shoe felt stable throughout, providing confidence when hitting shots from uneven lies or when conditions became a little damp underfoot. If grip is a priority, the Blade Tour certainly delivers.

I genuinely loved wearing this shoe. The Quantum delivers everything I want from a spikeless: foam cushioning that feels properly plush underfoot, a noticeably more spikey traction pattern than some of the other spikeless options I've tried, and a lightness that makes long walks feel comfortasble. They behaved like a proper performance spikeless rather than something that just looks like one.

Straight out of the box, no blisters and no break-in needed. I wore them for a full round and they performed perfectly from the first hole. The OrthoLite footbed inside felt cushioned and supportive, and FootJoy's SofFOAM midsole really is as soft as advertised. They also stayed surprisingly clean compared to lighter shoes I've worn, which is a bonus when you're paying this kind of money for footwear.

A small detail I genuinely loved: the cord-style laces. I know it sounds minor, but they tie down beautifully secure once I'd done them up, my foot felt locked in for the entire round in a way that flat laces just don't quite manage without a double knot. The baby-blue accents aren't a colour I'd usually go for either, but they grew on me quickly. I'd honestly build an outfit around these shoes.

A couple of fit points worth flagging. The collar at the back of the shoe sits high and felt fairly stiff when I was first putting them on. It wasn't a problem once I was walking and playing, fit and feel on-course were excellent, but the initial put-on takes a bit of effort.

The bigger thing is the width: although these are listed as medium, they're a little narrower than other FootJoys to me, and I'd hesitate to recommend them to anyone with wider feet. Best to opt for the wide fitting option in this model. For my feet, the snug fit worked beautifully, but width is something to test before buying.

Easily one of my new favourite golf shoes, comfortable from the first wear, brilliantly cushioned, light underfoot, with proper grip and a colourway that surprised me in the best way. The cord laces are a small but genuinely lovely detail.

Two caveats: the high, stiff back of the shoe takes a bit of getting used to when putting them on, and despite the medium width labelling, they run narrow, not the right shoe if you have wide feet. For everyone else, I'd buy them again in a heartbeat. A shoe I'll be wearing over and over again.

The influx of GPS watches and smartphone apps had perhaps initiated something of a shift away from golfers using handheld GPS devices on the course. Yet new products like the Pinned The Caddie and Sky Caddie Pro 4X suggest they might be on the comeback and the new Shot Scope H50 is another example looking to steer golfers away from the rangefinder or watch.

The H50 comes in at a very respectable £249 compared with other GPS devices and I was lucky enough to be able to put it to the test over multiple rounds - here are my thoughts.

Out of the box it undoubtedly has a sleek, premium feel. It weighs 270g, so less than a Pro ZR rangefinder, and has a tacky outer rubber shell that makes it easy to hold. Turning it on for the first time, it required a pretty lengthy firmware update - no big deal - and it paired easily with my Shot Scope app.

With a good first impression in the books, I took it to the course. The display on the whole looks clean and modern. It took far longer than I’d have liked to locate the course I was on (sometimes around a minute) although the instructions do say to connect to the course five minutes before your round.

I’m torn on the hole maps. Initially I thought they looked a bit basic and dated, but on reflection this graphical style ensures you’re able to see what lies ahead as clearly as possible. Touch the screen and the pointer will give you specific yardage to that point.

The touch screen was very responsive, even with my gloved hand, which is a crucial factor on devices like this, although there was a little lag in loading some of the other screen options like settings.

There are lots of cool features on the H50, like having slope-adjusted ‘Plays Like’ yardages for greater accuracy as well as distance arcs both off the tee and then into the green to show you what lies in wait 200, 150 and 100 yards away from the green.

Hit the green view option and you’re able to move the pin position on the green for a more specific distance if you want to go pin hunting - this is particularly useful if you’ve been given a sheet with the day’s pin positions or if you can clearly see where the flag is positioned.

Get on the green and then the fun really starts, in theory at least. The H50 has the option of seeing a heat map of the green, displaying the subtle breaks via arrows and a colour chart with light green being a gentle slope to dark blue being severe.

In reality, however, many of the arrows didn’t reflect the actual slope of the green and on some holes at my home course the arrows were missing altogether. Other devices I’ve tested that offer a similar feature I’ve also found to be lacking, so I’d take them with a healthy pinch of salt. However, I did find it a useful reference when I wasn’t really sure of the break on a given putt to show the general slope of the green.

Obviously a lot of these features (plays like distances, green heat maps) are not legal for competition play - you just need to check the tournament mode before starting your round and all the non-confirming features become disabled. But even then, the H50 is an incredibly useful tool to help you build a strategy and choose clubs that will keep you out of trouble.

I also liked how versatile the H50 was. I could keep it in my back or side pocket, or clip it to my bag using the included carabiner. The latter was a good option when employing the big numbers mode so I could glance at the front, middle and back distances without having to pick it up.

You’ve also got the option of the built-in magnet, which is great for cart users looking for always on, hands-free access to crucial distance information.

The battery life impresses too - I got at least 2 rounds from a full charge with some juice to spare - Shot Scope say the H50 should last 15 hours and I’ve got no reason to dispute this.

Overall, my experience with the H50 was a very positive one. I’m not sure it will fully convert me away from using a rangefinder but when playing new courses, the color hole maps and level of detail and interaction were incredibly helpful in plotting my way around. If you know your club distances, it will enhance your strategy and decision making, which is an area many golfers could make big improvements in to lower their scores.

New Balance’s golf presence is going from strength to strength and the Fresh Foam Contend V3 is adding to the strong line up of shoes already in its range.

Unlike some of the brand's earlier golf shoes, like the popular women's 327 golf shoe, which often felt like their popular trainers slightly adapted for the course, the Contend V3 has a much more dedicated golf shoe feel, offering the stability and support for golfers who like a sturdier feeling shoe.

The first thing I noticed was how comfortable they felt straight out of the box. There was no need for a breaking in period and I was happy to wear them for a full round from day one. While they do boast New Balance’s well loved Fresh Foam technology I didn’t feel they were as soft as their trainer counterparts, and that’s because they’ve clearly opted to create a shoe for swinging hard and walking the ups and downs of the fairways.

The best women's spikeless golf shoes have improved dramatically over the years, but some can still feel a little lacking when it comes to grip and stability. If I’d put this shoe on blindfolded, I would have absolutely thought it was a soft spike shoe. The heel and ankle area offer particularly good support, like the FootJoy Pro/SL, helping the foot feel locked in without being over restrictive.

The lightweight construction is another plus point, it felt good to walk in and at no point felt bulky or cumbersome. Combined with the waterproof upper, it becomes a very practical option for golfers who play regularly throughout the year. Whether you’re heading out on a dry summer evening or tackling a damp autumn morning, the Contend V3 feels up to the task.

The only real drawback I found l, which is likely more of a me problem rather than a New Balance problem, was the level of arch support. Golfers who prefer a more supportive insole or who suffer from foot fatigue may find themselves wanting a little more structure under the midfoot. It’s not a deal breaker, and some players may choose to swap in their own insoles, but it’s worth bearing in mind before you buy.

This shoe is a great example of how far New Balance’s golf footwear has come. So if you're looking for a spikeless shoe that feels secure from the first tee to the final green, the Contend V3 is well worth a place on your shortlist.

Vice Golf may have built its reputation on excellent value golf balls, but the brand’s ambitions now extend well beyond the ball category. Its package sets, in particular, are becoming a genuine area of strength and while the original Boost Starter Set impressed, the Boost+ raises the bar further.

Unlike many package sets, it isn’t specifically aimed at those who are completely new to the game. The Vice Golf Boost+ set has been thoughtfully designed to suit improving golfers and ambitious beginners seeking a high quality, complete set that offers a serious step up from cheap, mismatched or aging equipment.

A benefit of having a complete set rather than building a bag yourself is the consistency on offer. There are no gapping issues as the set has been built from top to bottom to cover all bases. I also think it looks quite nice when everything has the same design and colorway.

The set itself consists of a bag, driver, 3 wood, 4 hybrid, 5-PW as well as 50° and 56° wedges plus a putter. There are no weak links in the set and even clubs such as the driver and putter look and perform well above their price point.

Upon unboxing, my first thought was that Vice has absolutely nailed the visuals. The cohesive all-black aesthetic gives the set a premium feel that many package offerings simply don’t achieve. The bag is very smart with the all black complimented nicely by the small flashes of lime green on the handle and fasteners. It’s excellent quality too; sturdy yet lightweight. There is ample storage space and a seven way club divider.

I carried it for one round and used a trolley for the other. When carrying I found the shoulder strap and padding to be comfortable and the overall carrying experience was good. When using the trolley it sat securely without any issues. The bag is not fully waterproof but there was a sun shower during my second round and the clubs stayed dry, as did my belongings in the side pocket.

I think because it’s a complete set and everything has a uniform look, it really adds something to the overall aesthetic. The all black visuals of the driver, fairway and hybrid are stunning, while the contrast of the chrome head on the irons with the black graphite shafts really pops too. Even the quality of the leather headcovers exceeds what you would expect for a set in this price range. No expense has been spared, yet the set still comes in at under £800 / $1000.

Does the performance live up to the looks though? Let's go through the bag individually, starting with the driver.

With package sets, often the driver is the weakest club in the bag. It's understandable simply because the best drivers tend to retail at almost the cost of an entire set. You’re not going to get a driver in a package set that can compete with that, so some compromise is always expected.

That being said, the driver in this set performed well and had a lovely feel to it. In fact, as far as package set drivers go I can’t fault it. It’s easy to launch and quite forgiving, but I did find that distance consistency wasn't quite where I expected it to be, with similarly struck shots occasionally producing noticeably different carry numbers, both at the range and on the course.

I suspect that might be due to the spin rate, which was on the high side. I'd expect this from a package set driver as it hasn’t been custom fit for the individual, and the shaft and loft combination is different to my regular set up.

As mentioned, the sound and feel off the driver face is very pleasant. It's dull and muted and absolutely not what you would normally find in a package set. It looks and feels like a more expensive driver than it is. While I would say it's an excellent option for the golfer this set is designed for, it's worth remembering that upgrading to a custom fit driver at a later date is always an option.

Onto the 3-wood and 4-hybrid. I love the hybrid and hit some really nice approach shots with it on the course. I enjoyed the soft feel off the face which is a pleasant change for me as I carry a Callaway Epic Flash hybrid in my bag, which has quite harsh feel in comparison. I expected more of a high, floaty flight from this hybrid but it actually delivered the kind of performance I'd expect from a more premium option.

Conversely though, I never got to grips with the 3-wood at all. Off the tee it performed well enough but off the deck the look at address just didn’t suit my eye (which is a me problem rather than a critique of the club) and even on my well struck shots I didn’t love the flight or feel. Personally speaking I always think a 5-wood is a better option in a package set anyway as it's easier to hit and most golfers at 'package set ability level' won't see much difference in their distances with either club.

I actually ditched my own 3-wood in favor of a 5-wood a year or two back for that reason and that is probably the only thing I'd change about this set, as other than that I would say everything has been well thought out to give the mid-high handicap player every chance at shooting lower scores.

The irons were the biggest surprise in the bag. I loved hitting shots with them, especially the mid-irons, which aren't usually a strong point for me as I'm a fairly short hitter when it comes to irons.

Using new irons is always tricky because of the gapping. I know exactly how far I hit my own 7-iron, but with an unfamiliar club it’s pure guesswork unless you’ve tested them out on the range first (which in this case I hadn’t). My first shots with this set were out on the course, so I went in blind and guessing my distances. The lofts are slightly weaker than my gamer irons so on the par 3 third hole at my home course, where I usually hit 7-iron, I hit 6-iron instead and sent it arrowing towards a front left pin. To my surprise, it pitched at the very back of the green and flew into the bushes.

The same thing happened at the next par 3 when I clubbed down yet still airmailed the green into a pond! I initially put this distance boost down to the lovely summer weather, but upon further testing at the range I was still getting a few extra yards from the Vice set, even though they are weaker lofted than my own irons.

The feel off the face was soft, yet the ball was coming off the clubface like a rocket and I was producing yardages that are unusual for me, even though I use distance irons. I think I actually prefer these irons to my own, even though my irons cost more than this whole package set! The irons are available in steel shaft or graphite. I tested the graphite, which always seems to produce a nicer feel I think.

The wedges are impressive too. Very similar to the irons only with full face grooves, which visually can take some getting used to if you haven’t used them before. The full face grooves definitely provide a bit of extra reassurance, particularly with chipping and bunker shots, and again the soft feel was something that really jumped out.

Finally the putter. Again, I loved it. There isn’t anything particularly extravagant or exotic about it, but it looks stylish, feels nice in the hands and it delivers an excellent, consistent roll. I appreciate the choice of a fang design, which would probably be my preference in any package set, as it’s a common head shape that suits a variety of skill levels while providing a good blend of forgiveness and feel. It’s a much better option than a blade putter for the level of golfer that uses a package set, and for me the putter was one of the highlights of a great set.

All in all, this is a really impressive offering from Vice Golf that I can’t really fault at all. Every club has been carefully thought out to provide the maximum performance for the level of golfer the set is designed for and the quality on offer at this price point is, quite frankly, off the charts.

My first test of any new pair of golf shoes is straightforward: can I wear them straight out of the box without ending up with blisters?

The FootJoy Pulse passed that test without hesitation as one of the most comfortable golf shoes for women. From the very first round, my feet felt snug, well-supported and genuinely comfortable, with no sore spots or rubbing - exactly what you want from a shoe you're going to walk eighteen holes in. Sizing-wise, the US 8 / UK 6 fit true on me, and the medium width felt accommodating without being loose.

The cushioning is a real strong point. You can find the same comfort in FootJoy's Quantum golf shoe. The brand's SofFOAM midsole gives that plush underfoot feel that takes the edge off long walks, and the moulded 3D collar locks the heel in place without ever feeling intrusive.

I tend to gravitate towards navy on the course because all-black can look a bit harsh against most outfits, and the white-and-navy colourway with that little pop of orange hit exactly the right note for me. It's a clean, classic look that pairs easily with anything in my wardrobe, similar to the FootJoy Fuel.

Stability through the swing was solid. I do like to give the ball a bit of a whack, and the multi-dimensional traction pattern held up well. I felt solid and never had any sense of slipping. That said, I'd personally prefer a touch more bite than the spikeless outsole offers. The grip is good rather than great, and if you're someone who really wants that proper spike-style hold, you might want to look elsewhere.

The other slight catch was that the white upper picked up dirt more readily than I'd hoped. With this kind of synthetic fabric I'd usually expect it to stay cleaner unless conditions are really wet or grassy, but mine got a little mucky quicker than I'd have liked. Worth being aware of if you play a lot in damp conditions or wet mornings.

A genuinely comfortable, good-looking shoe that's perfect for fair-weather golfers wanting an all-rounder, similar to The cushioning is excellent, the styling is clean, and it's a shoe I happily wore for a full round straight out of the box. Just be aware the white fabric does mark up in damp or muddy conditions, and the spikeless grip is moderate rather than aggressive. It is 100% waterproof, but best suited to summer rounds, dry courses and dewy early mornings, less ideal as a deep-winter option.

Bettinardi is a brand best known for producing some of the best putters in the game today. I’ve tested a few of their putters in the past and I’m a big fan. Every Bettinardi product looks and feels high end and the craftsmanship always stands out, so I was excited to get my hands on the HLX 6.0 wedge.

Especially since these were the wedges that Bryson DeChambeau, a player who is very tuned in to his golf equipment, recently added to his bag back in March.

I’ve reviewed various wedges this year and there are some great new products on the market. The Vice Golf VGW02 wedge is certainly worth a look, whilst I was also very impressed with the PXG Stick Em wedges. How will the Bettinardi offering compare to the best wedges of 2026 though? Let’s find out!

Without wanting to downplay the performance and tech of the HLX 6.0, aesthetics are always the first port of call with Bettinardi. The price tag their products carry has more to do with the premium looks rather than just how they perform.

However, the expression “not just a pretty face” definitely applies to Bettinardi. The looks always jump off the page and are a major selling point, but move beyond that and the products can certainly hold their own against the more established brands. That being said, premium aesthetics are the hook that Bettinardi hang their hat on.

So, unsurprisingly, the HLX 6.0 is a beautiful looking wedge. It combines a classic compact wedge shape with distinctive CNC-milled detailing, giving it a premium, handcrafted look that stands apart from more conventional designs. From the milled sole to the distinct geometric milling on the back of the head, it brings a layer of craftsmanship that gives any bag extra style points. The HLX 5.0 was a nice looking wedge but Bettinardi have raised the bar once more.

It is available in a choice of two finishes - chrome and black. Both are appealing and although I would usually prefer a chrome finish, with the HLX I personally I think the black finish works better as the milling patterns on the back of the head really pop.

The branding is subtle and restrained, with a small silver Bettinardi logo on the back of the head and unobtrusive text that adds to the overall look.

In terms of the tech, Bettinardi is not big on buzzwords or slogans but its clubs are exceptionally well engineered. The HLX 6.0 wedges feature an increased number of grooves across the face and tighter spacing, resulting in more consistent spin on full shots and better performance on chips and pitches.

They also feature a CG that is slightly higher and more central, which produces a lower launch and helps to retain maximum spin. This lower launch and added spin will appeal to the more skilled player that these wedges are aimed at.

The lower launch was apparent in testing and I was impressed with the performance on full shots. However, it was around the greens where I really noticed the HLX 6.0 coming into its own. I have a reasonable short game but often I will shy away from using a high lofted club for chipping because I don’t like the lie, or specifically how the club sits with that lie.

I need the reassurance of a thinner wedge that looks like it can slide under the ball when I open up the face. If it doesn’t sit right or looks a bit chunky, I’m reaching for another club and playing a bump and run, whereas if I think I can get under it then I’ll try to get more creative.

The HLX 6.0 is a club I can get creative with. I love how it sits at address and this is a wedge that allows you to hit all the shots. It performed exceptionally out of bunkers too. I was testing the 54° model in the RJ-Grind, which probably explains why it was so inviting at address.

There are only two grind options, the C and the RJ. The standard C-Grind sole is a classic wedge design, ideal for players who prefer straightforward, square-faced shots. It helps you strike the ball cleanly with a lower bounce, making it especially effective on tight lies.

The RJ-Grind on the other hand, is a versatile, high-bounce sole designed for players who want maximum shot-making flexibility around the greens. With added relief at the heel, toe and trailing edge, it offers enhanced playability and adaptability for a wide range of shots. I like to manufacture shots around the green when possible, so the RJ-Grind really suited my needs.

Bettinardi usually sits towards the higher end of the price scale and the HLX 6.0 wedges are no different. There are certainly cheaper alternatives if you are on a budget, and the HLX actually comes in at a higher price point than market leading wedges such as the Vokey SM11 or Callaway Opus SP, but the extra cost is for the beautiful craftsmanship you get with Bettinardi clubs. These wedges really do look ultra premium and fans of the brand will love them.

The wedges are available in loft options from 48° to 60° and can purchased directly via the Bettinardi website.

The Callaway Opus SP wedges were launched last year and earned a glowing review from our tester, Sam De’Ath, who described them as some of the best wedges on the market. The SP+ hit the market in the spring of this year and although not drastically different, it has a more advanced construction, a more aggressive center of gravity and a loftier price tag (£229).

Does it offer an upgrade on the Opus SP though, and where does it stand in comparison to the best wedges we’ve tested? I put it through its paces to find out, but before we go any further, if you are looking to upgrade your wedges you should check out some of our various wedge guides, such as the best wedges for mid-handicappers, the best wedges for chipping as well as the best wedges for beginners.

Much of the same technology remains from the standard Opus SP but the SP+ has some subtle differences, such as tungsten weighting and a tighter groove spacing with an updated face texture. The SP+ also has a higher, more precisely positioned CG which aids with a lower, more controlled flight.

The "SP" stands for Spin Pocket. It’s a hollow cavity behind the lower face that removes mass low in the head, allowing weight to be redistributed higher, raising the center of gravity and promoting a lower, more penetrating flight with added spin. In the SP+, the pocket has been increased by about 25% compared to the standard SP, pushing even more weight upward.

Another upgrade from the standard model is that the SP+ has moved to a three-piece construction: a soft 8620 steel body, a metal-injection-moulded (MIM) face as well as tungsten weighting high in the head. That tungsten weighting works with the larger Spin Pocket to elevate CG further. It’s designed to produce tighter launch windows, more consistent carry and a flatter, spin-driven flight.

Finally, the SP+ uses Spin Gen 2.0 face technology with refined groove geometry, steeper angles and a laser-textured surface for added friction to deliver reliable, repeatable spin and a more controlled, tour-style ball flight.

In terms of the aesthetic, it’s a pleasing, albeit somewhat understated look. The branding is not too 'in your face' and overall it should appeal to most golfers. It isn’t as striking as some wedges I’ve tested recently, like the Bettinardi HLX 6.0, but it’s a premium looking wedge that looks great in the bag.

The standard Opus SP already delivers a lower flight window and excellent spin consistency, but the SP+ takes that up a notch and the lower, tour style trajectory should really appeal to the elite ball strikers.

Most average golfers won't have the game to benefit from the little extras the SP+ brings to the table and in terms of performance I’d get just as much out of the standard Opus SP. Better players than me though? Sure, I can definitely see how elite ball strikers might appreciate that lower flight window and softer feel and it will be interesting to see if any of Callaway's staff players put it into play.

I have to say the performance on full shots was top drawer. My carry number for a 54° wedge is around 90 yards, and it was a lot of fun just setting up in the fairway and firing a bag of balls at the flag for half an hour. It’s something I enjoy doing when my local course is quiet in the evenings, and testing wedges gives me the perfect excuse to do it.

The SP+ delivered exceptional performance on all manner of shots from varying distances. Around the green I played high pitches, low pitches, flop shots and several bunker shots and the versatility of the SP+ is the thing that impressed me most. That being said, the standard SP can pull off all of those shots too, so why pay the extra for the SP+ model?

The softer feel is probably the biggest selling point for me. A soft feel is something I like in a wedge as I find it helps on ‘feel shots’ when you are looking to get creative. That said I’m not convinced the improved feel alone justifies the extra $50/£50, as ultimately you’re paying for fairly marginal gains in flight control and feel rather than a wholesale jump in performance.

Given the quality and popularity of the standard Opus SP wedges, I’m not sure there’s going to be a huge of a market for the SP+ but that isn’t a criticism of the product itself and it will be interesting to see how popular it becomes. It’s a tour quality product with limited visible tour adoption so far. Opus wedges have been widely used on tour but while the SP+ has been engineered for that level of player, it hasn’t had time to earn its place in bags.

Perhaps if some Callaway players such as Jon Rahm, Xander Schauffele and others put the SP+ into play it will raise the profile of the product, but I can’t shake the feeling that most golfers will just go with the standard model due to the significant price difference. That said, if you do opt for the premium offering you certainly won’t be disappointed.

Titleist has dramatically improved its metalwoods over the past five years, and while its drivers like the GTS3 driver have proved increasingly popular on all professional tours, the fairway woods haven’t quite gained the same traction. However, the brand will be hoping that this is about to change following the release of the highly anticipated GTS2 and GTS3 fairway woods.

WATCH: See the Titleist GTS2 fairway wood in action

Designed for maximum playability, the GTS2 fairway pairs a larger profile with a shallower face to promote easier launch and added confidence. As someone who relies heavily on my fairway woods when my driver isn’t behaving, I put the GTS2 fairway wood to the test to see if its promises of enhanced speed and stability can see it become one of the best fairway woods on the market.

At address, the GTS2 sets up beautifully, offering a larger footprint than the GTS3 and one that will inspire towering ball flights behind the ball. Titleist has introduced a new wraparound composite crown that extends around the perimeter, creating a very clean and traditional look that we’ve come to expect from the brand, all while creating a flatter sole that sits the head flush to the turf and invites committed swings from the moment you set it down, much like some of the most forgiving fairway woods.

The standout visual change for me is the tour-inspired, high-polish face. I absolutely love that Titleist has reverted to a silver face over the darker heads we've seen in the past few models, as I feel as though this new look provides a clearer view of the face.

Crucially, it really allows me to see the loft on the clubhead, which gives me the visual confidence to commit to hitting down on the ball properly, rather than feeling as though I need to artificially hit up to launch it and get myself into some difficulty with my club path, therefore producing some fairly erratic shots.

A major concern when brands switch to composite materials is the loss of acoustic feedback, but the GTS2 completely avoids this pitfall and has managed to maintain the same sound and feel that you would expect from a timeless, traditional-looking golf club.

I love the feel through impact - it delivers a satisfying, powerful sound, slightly louder than the likes of the TaylorMade Qi4D and Callaway Quantum, but it feels both fast and incredibly stable.

The performance of the GTS2 was really impressive, largely thanks to a shift in weight lower and deeper in the clubhead, which aligns the center of gravity more closely with the actual point of impact and increases the MOI. The result? I saw really tight dispersion both front to back and side to side, meaning my mishits performed very similarly to those hit out of the middle of the face.

My spin consistency was also incredibly impressive, which created a really reliable, repeatable ball flight. It consistently generated a high ball flight with solid distance (around 260 yards carry) with total ease. Furthermore, the shallower face height proved to be an absolute lifesaver on tight lies, effectively making low-impact shots perform just like center-impact strikes.

With the inclusion of a dual weighting system featuring interchangeable heel-toe weights, a fitter can easily dial in directional control and stability to match your exact swing mechanics, alongside the Surefit hosel that featured in the GT2 fairway wood.

Given the compelling performance, the GTS2 fairway wood even earned a place in our 2026 Editor's Choice awards. At a stock retail price of $399/369, it represents a high-performance fairway wood that any golfer looking for versatility and consistency should test.

One could make a strong case for Blue Tees to be one of the fastest growing technology companies in golf.

When it comes to distance measuring devices like the best golf rangefinders and best golf watches, the natural evolution has been more and more new features each year. This is great on one hand, I love features. On the other hand, these features come at a price.

The more you want, the more you pay. I’d consider the likes of the Bushnell Pro X3+ and Garmin Z82 to be top of the pops, but they will set you back north of $500.

Want one of the best budget rangefinders? No problem, but don't expect GPS yardages, club recommendations or even waterproof protection. You can get a reliable and accurate rangefinder for less than $150, but it will be fairly basic.

The middle class is where it gets interesting. If you’re willing to pay a few hundred bucks for some bells and whistles but can’t afford or simply don’t want to buy the most expensive bottle of wine on the menu, what are your options? They are plentiful - you have the likes of the Precision Pro Titan Slope, Shot Scope Pro L5 and options from Blue Tees like the Series 4 Ultra.

In 2026, Blue Tees has made an all-singing, all-dancing laser rangefinder to fit in its expanding ecosystem so you can keep all your golf data in one place without it putting a sizeable dent in your wallet.

It's called the Captain Pro and comes in at a reasonable $299. It joins the Captain Air rangefinder, the Playmaker + GPS Watch, Player+ GPS Speaker and even a budget launch monitor in the Rainmaker.

I recently put the Captain Pro through its paces, and there was A LOT of testing for me to do given how many features are on offer here.

In our hands we get the following: a crystal clear 7x magnification OLED display, a ‘Find My Rangefinder’ feature in case you misplace it, flag lock vibration, stat tracking, IP67 dust and waterproofing, and once connected to the app, you get even more.

Once you've paired your device with the app you get front, center and back GPS distances, as well as an 'eye in the sky' aerial views and green heat maps of each hole you are playing. You also get one year free of the Advanced Analytics Package subscription, which gives you shot tracking, club recommendations, shot dispersion and accuracy data and additional app features. I too tend to roll my eyes at subscriptions, but at $49 a year or $99 for three years, the outlay is fairly modest for what you get.

As for the laser itself, it passes the eye test. It looks cool and feels premium courtesy of the robust rubber exterior which features a very clear button that shines red when you are using slope - if you’ve read any of my other rangefinder reviews, I strongly believe every model should make it abundantly clear when slope is being used given it is illegal in competition play.

Assessing this laser without using the smart features, it is hard to find fault. The display is absolutely superb and the flag lock vibration reassuring when there is foliage behind the green. I’m not a massive fan of the carry case, preferring the cases from the likes of Bushnell which use an elastic clip to keep your case closed without zipping it up. Nevertheless, this is a high-quality case that will keep your device safe.

Then we get to the bells and whistles, where there is both good and bad news. A word of advice - have a test run with this laser before using it in an important round. It is one of the few devices I’ve had to read the instruction manual to understand how to use everything.

Once you’ve connected to the app, the GPS yardages are brilliant, but the app experience is less so. As someone who hates being on his phone when walking 18 holes, I’m always skeptical of apps, and the Blue Tees app is a little too rough around the edges for my liking.

It’s a little slow and laggy in places, which is detrimental to the whole experience. I also found my Captain Pro's Bluetooth disconnected a few times randomly, forcing me to reconnect mid-round.

Now for the 'glass half full' perspective - I’m confident Blue Tees can improve the app experience. For now though, I’ll stick with the laser features that don’t require me to use my phone.

So, all of this for less than $300/£230. That is nothing short of ridiculous value for money. As I write this review, I fight the urge to applaud at my desk. At a time in which golf has exploded in popularity and brands have made the most of this by upping prices, credit to Blue Tees for making a device that does so much but doesn’t come with the eye-watering price tag.

I can’t wait to test the rest of the ecosystem - if it performs as well as the Captain Pro, it could force some uncomfortable conversations when it comes to brands pricing their products going forward. Here’s hoping…

Titleist has long been synonymous with producing some of the best golf bags money can buy, and its latest iteration of the iconic Players line is no exception.

Sitting at the top end of the newly introduced 'S' range, the Players S5 StaDry promises to combine a lightweight carry with ultimate waterproof protection and maximum storage for complete versatility. I recently took it out on the course to see if it lives up to its premium billing.

Straight out of the box, the Players S5 StaDry boasts the classic, timeless silhouette I have come to expect from Titleist and, in particular, the Players range. It is available in four sleek colourways, but the traditional black with red and grey trimming was my favourite. The premium polyester material feels incredibly robust, and that is something Titleist has made a conscious effort to improve within this new lineup.

The upgraded materials are now highly resistant to abrasion, tears, and UV exposure, and I can certainly believe it just from touching the fabric. It will be interesting to see if the black colour fades over the warm summer we hopefully have in store, but only time will tell on that front.

It’s the sheer functionality of the S5 StaDry that truly stood out to me and is what had me thinking this has to be one of the best stand bags on the market. Titleist has managed to integrate 10 pockets into a stand bag without making it look overly bulky, which is really impressive.

As someone who likes being prepared for the course, carrying extra layers, drinks, and food, this amount of pockets is a dream. The storage options include a lined, waterproof valuables pocket, an insulated external water bottle pocket, and a Velcro glove landing patch if you don’t want to stuff it in your back pocket on a warm day.

The integrated cart strap tunnel is a massive bonus if, like me, you occasionally prefer to use a trolley or buggy when the weather warms up, or you’re on vacation.

The brand-new 5-way top cuff with a full-length divider really helped reduce club entanglement and made retrieving and replacing clubs feel effortless. In my testing, this slightly wider, refined configuration virtually eliminated the annoying grip-tangle that often bugs me when using smaller stand bags, even more so after hitting a poor shot!

When it came to braving the elements, the StaDry technology was faultless. The seam-sealed construction and high-quality YKK zippers ensured that, even when I was caught in a heavy downpour, my spare layers, grips, and valuables remained completely bone dry.

While a base weight of 2.5kg means the S5 StaDry sits slightly on the heavier side for a pure carry bag compared to ultra-lightweight bags such as the Titleist Players 4 carbon stand bag.

Despite this, I found that the updated premium double strap system balanced the weight perfectly across my shoulders, and combined with a larger, integrated hip pad, there was an abundance of comfort on offer the whole time I was on the course.

As if this bag wasn’t already impressive enough, the redesigned stand system for the new line offered a reliable leg deployment and wide stance when sat down, providing rock-solid stability that held up well even when the wind picked up or on uneven ground.

If you are a dedicated everyday golfer who refuses to compromise on storage or weather protection, I can confidently say the Titleist Players S5 StaDry is quite simply one of the best waterproof bags money can buy.

Package sets can vary greatly in terms of price and quality. They can also differ in terms of the level of golfer they are aimed at. I’ve tested some of the absolute best package sets this year including two high end offerings from Callaway - the XR Package Set and the Mavrik Set, and it’s fair to say that the Inesis First Golf Kit is not in the same class.

You’d expect that, as it comes in almost a thousand pound cheaper than those premium sets (£149.99), but it also serves an entirely different purpose to most package sets.

Some sets are aimed at the enthusiastic beginner, others are aimed at the golfer who has been playing for a while and is now wanting to upgrade their gear to a full set. This offering from Inesis, however, is very much for the brand new golfer who isn’t sure whether they will stick with it and therefore wants to see how things go before spending a lot of cash.

Splashing out a grand on a full set only to discover after a few months that this isn’t the game for you isn’t a great idea, unless of course you don’t mind wasting your money. If, however, you quite like the idea of taking up golf but don’t want to spend too much until you’re sure you’re in it for the long haul, this set is an interesting option.

Because of the affordable price point, it's certainly in the conversation when it comes to the best cheap package sets, but intriguingly it also makes for an ideal gift for a friend or relative that is keen on giving golf a go. A half set of clubs and a bag for less than the cost of some premium wedges makes this a very interesting option.

It’s important to point out that is only a half set, which helps to keep the price down while still providing the basics required to get out on the course. The set consists of a bag, driver, hybrid, two irons, a wedge and a putter, and for a brand new golfer that is more than sufficient. For example, you get a 7-iron and a 9-iron, but a complete novice doesn’t need an 6 or 8-iron because they won’t be striking the ball consistently enough to see any real difference. Gapping isn’t an issue for someone just starting out so a half set is just fine.

This is very much a set that any keen golfer will grow out of quickly, but the low price point reflects that. It’s not a set for the long haul, it’s something that will get you started until you are ready to upgrade to something to take you to the next level.

The driver is basic, but given that the best drivers often retail at five times the cost of this entire set, that’s to be expected. It might actually be the cheapest driver I’ve ever hit, but all things considered it was pretty good. It’s 14° of loft which is higher than most standard drivers but that’s perfect for this set’s target market. The priority for beginners is getting the ball into the air. That’s the hardest thing for a new golfer, so any help doing that is a good thing.

It’s a loud and not particularly pleasant sound, especially at the range when there’s often an echo. On the course though it was actually quite fun to hit shots with as it went very high and arrow straight, albeit a lot shorter than I’d normally be used to.

The hybrid was quite nice to hit and other than the putter this will probably be the most used club in the bag for the new golfer. Fairway woods and longer irons can be difficult to hit so including a single hybrid instead makes sense, as even a modest length par 5 is going to take several shots to reach for a beginner.

The graphite shafted irons are also very easy to get airborne and I found them to be quite forgiving considering the price point. The sand wedge is very similar and it performed especially well out of bunkers. It was a little clunky around the greens on pitch shots but that won’t matter to the level of golfer who will be using this set as at that stage of their golfing journey they aren’t going to have too much variety to their short game.

The fang shaped putter looks very basic even by modest package set standards. There’s no face milling, the grip is very thin, branding is minimal to say the least and to be honest I had very little expectations of it. Yet the performance was actually pretty good. It feels quite heavy in the hands but I like that in a putter. The roll was nice and the feel was surprisingly soft. A better grip would have been nice but the idea is to keep the cost down so I get it.

On this note, I do appreciate Inesis opting to go with a mallet putter as it's a bugbear of mine when a beginner set comes with a blade putter instead. Even many of the top players in the world have realised that mallets give them a bit more forgiveness, so if Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy need help, it seems like a no brainer to give a beginner something that will be easier to use.

The bag and head covers are also basic and the bag isn’t the sturdiest. It probably wouldn’t handle a full set, but it isn’t designed to do that. While it won't be making any shortlists for the best stand bags, it’s very lightweight and therefore easy to carry. For what it costs, I would say it’s excellent value, much like the entire set.

All in all this a great option for anyone thinking about giving golf a try. It's very well thought out and everything about it is designed to make the game easier for the golfer taking their first steps in the game. The high loft of the driver, the inclusion of a hybrid rather than fairway wood and a user-friendly putter design all point to the consideration Inesis has put into making this half set affordable but also effective.

For a brand new golfer I'm struggling to see any real downside here. If after a few months you decide golf isn’t for you, or if you’ve been well and truly bitten by the bug and want to invest in a full set or something more premium, you’ll have had your money’s worth from this set and can either pass it on to someone else or sell it and recoup some of your outlay.

Motocaddy are one of the busiest brands in the whole golf industry. Just one year after introducing a fully refreshed fleet, the brand is back at it again, offering golfers an even more considerable set of upgrades than last year.

On one of the best remote electric trolleys from last year, the 2025 M7 GPS, not a lot was wrong, barring perhaps some parts of the GPS I'd have improved. Thankfully, the brand has added vast improvements to the one feature I thought let it down slightly, while keeping everything I loved about the last version intact.

The improvements I allude to have all come on the trolley's in-built GPS. While it has stayed in a landscape orientation - rivals like the PowaKaddy RX12 GPS or MGI Ai 500 GPS - the Motocaddy system has seen a huge upgrade in the user interface and responsiveness of the screen.

The responsiveness was the first thing that struck me when testing. You can now pinch and zoom across the detailed mapping, while the customisation now on offer allows you to choose which of the many options to have displayed on the screen at all times.

The 2D mapping gives you the ability to touch for a yardage to specific areas of the hole and utilise the new pinch and zoom feature to get closer than ever to the hole map on the screen.

Most impressive is the new 3D hole mapping, which offers unparalleled detail of the hole ahead. This even includes a flyover option, brilliant if you're playing a course for the first time and want a clearer idea of the challenge that lies ahead.

The mapping is barely the start of the GPS experience. Performance tracking and shot measurement, quick yardages to the green and hazards, a clock, round timer and lost ball timer, Bluetooth smartphone notifications, and an AED locator tool are also part of the package.

It all amalgamates to an incredibly detailed and responsive GPS that feels like a huge upgrade on the last version, and without a doubt, the most comprehensive I have tested in a built-in system before.

Elsewhere, there has been a refresh to the remote, which is much more ergonomic and better-looking than the previous version, while still offering the responsiveness and confidence that all the best remote golf trolleys provide.

Being part of Motocaddy's 'M' series of trolleys, the M7 GPS folds down incredibly compactly. The front wheels automatically fold underneath the chassis, the rear stabiliser wheel can be slotted under the chassis, and the rear wheels can even invert, making the overall footprint impressively small when folded away.

Motocaddy's best feature, which can be seen across its huge fleet of trolleys, is the wireless, autodisconnecting battery. As you fold the trolley away, the battery automatically disconnects, revealing a pop-out charging port at the same time. It means you'll never accidentally leave the trolley on and waste battery life, while also giving you an option to charge the battery directly from the chassis.

Do I still prefer the portrait screens I've tested on PowaKaddy and MGI trolleys, yes? But that being said, this is such a detailed and feature-packed GPS that something as simple as orientation doesn't really cross your mind when using it.

Would I be annoyed if I'd purchased last year's model, only to see it updated the following year? Also yes. Though Motocaddy's endeavour to improve its product must be commended, the regularity of its updates does seem to flood the market with a lot of trolleys. I'd love to see them slow down the release cycles slightly more going forward.

All of that being said, this is one of the most complete packages possible when it comes to an electric remote golf trolley. Compact folding, easy to live with, superb build quality, an excellent GPS and a responsive remote control combine to create a thoroughly enjoyable expereince that only adds positively to your experience on the golf course.

As a sufferer of Plantar Fasciitis I often struggle to find golf shoes that give me enough arch support. The Skechers Pure Si golf shoes were an absolute delight to wear. As far as straight out of box comfort goes you simply can’t beat them.

As soon as I slipped my feet inside I instantly knew that these shoes would cause me no pain. They have a generous fit, ideal for my wide feet, and padding just about everywhere that comes into contact with the foot. There is particularly good heel support also (Skechers call it a heel pillow) so no discomfort there.

One of the most impressive features of these shoes is the Arch Fit inner soles. They really do support golfers with problem feet like me. A high arch needs extra support and these shoes give exactly that.

They are also fully waterproof so you don’t have to worry about getting caught out in a heavy downpour, which means you’ll get great value and wear from these shoes all-year round if you wish.

In terms of styling, the Pure Si aren’t the most exciting golf shoes I have ever seen. In fact, I’d describe them as relatively plain in looks, perhaps a little boring compared to other shoes such as the New Balance 327 or Duca del Cosma Olivera 2 golf shoe. It seems to be a theme across all nine golf shoe styles from Skechers this season. But on the plus-side the neutral look does compliment just about any outfit.

On the course I was really impressed with the grip I got from the high traction spikeless sole. The raised rectangular patterned spikes really do help the shoe cling to the turf as you swing. The Pure Si definitely gave me confidence to swing athletically without any discomfort.

Skechers point to the addition of an S-Wing for stability. This actually looks a bit plasticky to me, but it’s good to know the side panel was added like the wings of a plane for a purpose, rather than just for cosmetics!

Skechers has always been a golf shoe brand synonymous with comfort, and the addition of a few fancy performance features in the Pure Si really do make them an unbeatable choice as one of the best women's spikeless golf shoes.

I’m not a brand loyalist when it comes to golf. I have a Ping driver and woods, Mizuno irons, TaylorMade wedges and a Scotty Cameron putter. However, when it comes to my rangefinder, I feel naturally drawn towards Bushnell. I view the likes of Titleist, TaylorMade and Callaway amongst others largely as equals when it comes to hardware, but I view Bushnell as the leaders of the laser rangefinder market.

They have plenty of competition to fend off in the battle to deliver the best golf rangefinders - Garmin are circling like sharks, Blue Tees have seriously upped their game with very exciting releases in the works for 2026, and those are just two of over a half dozen rival brands jostling for your custom. The Pro XM is Bushnell’s second laser release of the year and given how impressed by the Tour V7 Shift earlier this year, I was excited to take it out at Royal County Down to put it through its paces.

The Pro XM is a new member of the expansive Bushnell family, essentially acting as a mini-Pro X3+, the most premium and highest priced-ticket item in this ecosystem. It is not yet available in the United States, but sits just below the Tour Hybrid (£549) but £70 above the Tour V7 Shift (£399) - so what sets it apart from the best Bushnell rangefinders?

As mentioned, this is essentially a mini-Pro X3+, and when I say mini, I mean mini! This thing is tiny! A growing niche in the laser space is to make small, pocket-sized lasers that pack a punch and this is Bushnell’s second ‘mini’ laser after they released the A1-Slope last summer.

If I make a Star Wars reference, my first thought when I unboxed the Pro XM it reminded me of Baby Yoda - small and cute, but don’t let the looks fool you, under the hood this is a very strong performer in the same way Baby Yoda had full use of the force in The Mandalorian.

Enough of the Star Wars references, let’s chat performance. A hint of what lies ahead is how good this laser feels in your hand. It’s smaller than the average laser but the build-quality is top tier and notably better than the A1-Slope, the cheapest laser in the family. It weighs less than 200g so is both noticeably small and lighter than the Pro X3+. The build is similar to that of the Tour V7 Shift with the same IPX6 Waterproof shell and a very reliable Magnetic BITE that we’ve become accustomed to.

Bring it up to your eye and you are met with a crystal clear display that sets the standard for the laser industry. Bushnell’s new OLED screen that was debuted with the Tour V7 Shift features here, and it is brilliant - numbers are delivered in bright red so are very easy to consume, whilst the Pinseeker With Visual Jolt feature gives you a a red ring now that flashes as JOLT vibrates to give you even greater feedback and confidence when you’ve successfully locked the flag. Standing on the tee of a Par 3 and getting a number to the flag has never been easier.

In terms of features, Bushnell have taken their Slope Technology and essentially injected it with steroids - their new ‘Elements Compensation’ means temperature and altitude have been added for the most precise compensated distances you could ask for. All you need to do is download the app and link your phone and laser.

Also, thanks to Bushnell’s collaboration with Foresight Sports, the Pro XM can take your stock club yardages provided by your Bushnell launch monitor to give you personalized club recommendations right in your laser’s display.

As much as I try, I can’t find fault with this laser in terms of performance. However, I’m not a fan of the new landscape case, a change from the typical portrait case we’ve seen throughout the Bushnell family, including the A1-Slope. The laser doesn’t feel as easily accessible in this new case compared to the portrait case and I think it is a small step back, especially considering how good Bushnell’s protective cases have proved over the years.

If you value beautifully clear visuals, ease-of-use and reliable yardages, all packaged into a well-built laser that can fit in your pocket, the Pro XM is well worth considering.

When it comes to the premium putter market, there is no shortage of beautifully crafted models, but the new Odyssey Damascus Milled One Wide SB putter has seriously raised the bar.

After spending a couple of years perfecting the design and receiving feedback from PGA and LPGA Tour players, Odyssey has released the limited-edition Damascus Milled collection ($699/£569). I took the One Wide SB model out onto the golf course to see if it delivers the performance you'd expect from its premium price tag.

Out of the box, I think it's right up there with one of the best-looking putters I've ever seen, with the face being the real talking point. The Damascus steel starts with 61 sheets of two different types of steel (one softer and one firmer) that are stacked into a box. They are then pressed and rolled at extremely high temperatures until they stretch out to the length of two football fields, before being cut and twisted - yes, you read that correctly!

This intensive process is what creates the mesmerizing visual layer pattern that you see on the face, which I think looks absolutely incredible in the sunlight. What’s incredible is that where these layers are cut dictates the pattern, meaning no two inserts are the same, and every putter is unique, so you really do have a one-of-one putter.

While a putter can boast incredible aesthetics, it’s not going to make it into the bag of many golfers unless it performs on the greens. Odyssey wanted to deliver its most premium, performance-driven putter ever, and I genuinely think they have achieved that with this Damascus One Wide model.

The premium aesthetics are matched with an unbelievable feel from the Damascus milled face, something designed around tour players expressing the need for it to sound louder, firmer, and more solid than recent product releases such as the Ai-One milled range. By combining a softer steel and a higher-strength firmer steel, you get the benefits of both, resulting in the firmer sound and feel that traditionalists love from a milled putter.

In terms of performance, the One Wide SB shape is one that I particularly love, providing the feel and creativity of a blade while offering a touch more forgiveness in a larger footprint - closer to that of a mallet putter. The widened profile frames the ball perfectly at address, and the single dot sightline on the top is ideal for centering the ball at address.

The SB (Single Bend) design provides minimal toe hang (10°) with a half-shaft of offset, which I found worked beautifully for a stroke with a minimal arc and will suit those who like to feel the putter working on a straighter path.

Hidden behind the stunning Damascus face is Odyssey's modern Ai topology, strategically designed on the back of the face to improve ball speed across the insert and improve pace control. On long lag putts, I found this technology really shone, giving me a pure roll even when I didn't find the dead center of the blade and regularly had the ball finishing within gimmee range, much like some of the most forgiving putters.

This putter features an SL90 steel shaft with a 20-gram counterbalance weight in the butt end, which noticeably smoothed out my tempo and allowed my stroke to feel balanced even when put under a little pressure when using it in a match I played. The whole Damascus range is paired with a new Rubber Tour Pistol Grip developed in collaboration with Golf Pride, which feels incredibly secure and locked-in in the hands.

Yes, £569 is a premium investment, but considering the bespoke craftsmanship, the Tour-validated performance, and the fact we tend to use our putter for around 50 percent of the shots we hit on the golf course, it feels as though it’s worth it. If you want one of the best putters on the market that looks and feels incredible, the Damascus One Wide is easily one of the standout releases of the year.