As the summer sun begins to bake the fairways and your weekend four-ball moves from the indoor simulator to the local course, the hunt for ‘the secret’ begins. We browse the latest $600 drivers and $400 putters, hoping technology will mask our flaws.

Yet, according to the world’s best players, the most important investment you can make this season costs less than a sleeve of premium balls.

If you are serious about playing your best golf this summer, you need the molded rubber training grip. It is a simple, unassuming piece of equipment, but it is currently the most significant open secret on the professional tours.

The Scheffler Standard

It is impossible to discuss ball-striking excellence without mentioning Scottie Scheffler. His statistical dominance from tee-to-green is historic, often drawing comparisons to the heights of Tiger Woods.

While fans obsess over his "dancing feet" and unique footwork, PGA Professionals and equipment insiders point to something much more fundamental: his grip.

Scheffler is famously meticulous about his hand placement. In his bag, you will almost always find two 7-irons. One is his gamer; the other is a dedicated training club fitted with a $10 molded rubber grip.

He doesn't just use it occasionally - he begins every session with it. Even during the chaotic 2024 PGA Championship, where his warm-up was cut to mere minutes, the training grip was the first thing he reached for. It serves as a physical reset, ensuring his only point of connection with the club is identical every single time.

Beyond the World Number One

While Scheffler is the poster boy for the movement, the trend is sweeping through the professional ranks. I recently spoke with Callaway Tour Rep Kellen Watson, who confirmed that the adoption of these molded grips is an "open secret" among the tour players, and far more widespread than the general public realizes.

Watson noted that major champions and elite ball-strikers like Xander Schauffele and Sam Burns, among many others, are also utilizing this specific training aid to maintain their fundamentals.

On the DP World Tour, the results are equally compelling. 2018 British Masters Champion Eddie Pepperell has recently enjoyed a significant upturn in his long game form, a resurgence he directly attributed to "copying" Scheffler’s idea. Speaking on his podcast, The Chipping Forecast, Pepperell discussed the power of the simplest concept.

"So what I've worked on, I've centered it all around this grip reminder that Scottie Scheffler uses," Pepperell reflected. "It's Scottie Scheffler, the best player we've seen since Tiger, and he focuses on the most simple thing day in, day out. There's a lot of power in that clearly, and I'm experiencing some of those benefits."

Part of the reason for writing this piece is a desperation to share with anyone who would care to listen how much consistent use of the training grip has positively impacted my own golf game.

My Personal Experience

As a PGA Professional, keen to keep a level of competitive skill into my forties, I committed to a carefully thought-out cocktail of training aids this winter and have religiously stuck to the same formula come rain or shine. In addition to the training grip, my non-negotiables for practice are the T Square from Vision putting, and the TRS Ball for my backswing connection.

However, in my mind, the consistency of my delivery and the tightening of my dispersion can be directly attributed to the repetitive way I am able to put my hands on the club every time at the moment.

Even playing very little actual on-course golf, I recently managed to qualify for the British PGA Championships, and in my last tournament, I reeled off 14 birdies in 36 holes for an 8-under total and a top ten in a national PGA event.

This is not meant as a self-indulgent brag; I am just keen to pass on something that has been working incredibly well for me in the hope that others can see a similar uptick in performance and the associated satisfaction that comes along with good results.

A Layer of Insurance

Why is this $10 piece of rubber so effective? Because the golf grip is the most critical area of your fundamentals, yet it is the easiest to get wrong. Over a long summer of play, "grip creep" is real. Your hands might move a fraction of an inch into a stronger or weaker position, leading to subtle changes in clubface control that eventually turn into a full-blown case of the hooks or slices.

Adding this aid to your bag provides a layer of insurance. It forces your hands into a "neutral" position, training the muscle memory of your fingers and palms. You don't even need to be at the range to benefit; you can use it while sitting on your sofa, simply gripping and re-gripping to reinforce that vital sensation.

The Verdict

Golf is a game of variables, many of which we cannot control. However, the way we hold the club is entirely within our power. If the best ball-strikers in the world feel the need to check their grip every single day with a $10 training aid, then the amateur golfer is arguably at a massive disadvantage by ignoring it.

Don't spend this summer fighting your swing. Buy the grip, have it installed on an old 7-iron, and make it the first club you swing before every round. It is quite possibly the best $10 you will ever spend on your game.

Nowadays, the golf equipment world rarely sees a genuine revolution, but when a new, unknown putter drops and the immediate buzz on social media is notable, there is a good chance something special is happening.

In my time as an equipment tester, I have never had so many people contact me, urging me to check out one particular new release: the Boudin Noir from a family-run startup called Sausage Golf.

In a space where even the best putters often only offer rehashed and mildly tweaked models, it is incredibly refreshing to see a startup arrive with such a brilliantly original idea, and to see it executed seemingly so well.

The Boudin Noir is the result of founder Dave Rowles’ unique journey — moving from golf as a first love in Manchester to working in yacht design on the Côte d’Azur, a world defined by precision engineering, CAD, and endless prototyping. He has brought that rigorous design ethos back to the green, and the result is potentially groundbreaking.

The putter itself, launched this month, is a masterpiece of precision engineering, machined from aerospace-grade 6061 aluminium and finished in a sleek anodised matte black, with an assembled headweight of 365g, but the true innovation lies in its modularity.

"I love what Sausage Golf has done here. To turn a putter essentially completely modular like this is a masterstroke. I've never seen anything like it in putter design before, and my first impression is that it has been executed brilliantly. I'm looking forward to getting stuck into some proper testing with this one!"

Sausage Golf has equipped the Boudin Noir with interchangeable shaft modules, allowing, with a simple screw system, the same head to be set up as toe hang, face balanced, or low torque - a flexibility that is patent pending.

Not only can the Boudin Noir provide these three different torque profiles in one putter, but it has been engineered so cleverly that you can use the same head and shaft and create those torque profiles in both right and left-handed configurations!

This is not just interesting for club tinkerers who simply like to mess about with different putting styles and putter types; it could also make for an extremely useful fitting tool. PGA professionals can now test players for face-balanced, toe hang, and zero torque styles while keeping the head mass, material, look, and all other variables exactly the same.

Sausage Golf insists the big thing is not just the engineering, but the feel. Too many putters, they say, "seem to kill it." The Boudin Noir is designed to provide that little bit of satisfying feedback in the hands. To complement this idea, they have chosen a classic pistol as the stock grip, allowing a comfortable, neutral hold.

The initial response to this launch confirms its potentially revolutionary status; the first batch of the Boudin Noir sold out almost instantly.

Looking ahead, Sausage Golf is already planning to introduce fitters’ kits that will allow quick interchangeability of different lie angles, and the company will be offering lie angle customization to customers at the beginning of next year.

The Sausage Golf Boudin Noir putter is undoubtedly the most compelling piece of golf equipment I have seen all year. I have one currently en route to my house and cannot wait to get it into my hands for a full review.

Watch this space…

The compact head shape and sleek lines of a ‘blade’ putters such as the Ping Anser or Scotty Cameron Newport have been mainstays in the hands of the world's best golfers for many years now, synonymous with success at the highest level.

Yet, look closely at the bags of the modern professional, and you'll witness a fundamental shift: the traditional ‘blade’ putter is in a serious and undeniable state of decline, supplanted by their more technologically advanced, high-MOI (Moment of Inertia) mallet and zero-torque cousins.

A quick note on terminology: While many of us, myself included, may still think of a blade putter as something like the Wilson 8802, the modern definition has evolved. For the purposes of this article, putters with the iconic Anser shape are now considered part of the blade category, so I'll be using that classification throughout.

The evidence of this sea change is stark, now shifting from anecdotal observation to undeniable statistical fact.

Consider the upcoming Ryder Cup: a showcase of the best 24 players from Europe and the United States, and a quick inventory of the putters on display reveals a profound truth—only three out of the 24 players at Bethpage will be trusting a blade-style putter, a figure that would have been unthinkable just a decade ago.

The shift away from tradition is equally pronounced when looking at the game's biggest prizes. For example, the 2025 men’s major championship season concluded without a single win for a blade-style putter.

Zooming out further still, the statistics paint an even more comprehensive picture: of the last 12 men's professional majors contested, a mere two have been won with a blade putter.

The most revered stage in golf, where precision and nerve are paramount, is increasingly dominated by designs that prioritise stability and function over classic aesthetics.

Furthermore, on the PGA Tour this year, the blade decline has been similarly consistent. Only 25% (10 out of 40) of the events played so far have been won with a putter style that used to monopolise the winner's circle.

In my opinion, the reason for this mass exodus is simple, and it comes down to the core mandate of any professional golfer: performance. The primary appeal of the larger, perimeter-weighted mallet, or the new-age zero-torque designs from companies like L.A.B. Golf, is forgiveness and stability.

By moving mass—and consequently, the Centre of Gravity (CG)—further away from the clubface, manufacturers create a much higher MOI. This increased resistance to twisting means that mis-hit putts are significantly less penalising. Whether a player strikes the ball slightly off the toe or the heel, the putter head remains much more stable through impact.

The result? Mis-hit putts lose less ball speed and distance and, critically, stay much closer to the intended line. For players whose livelihoods are determined by fractions of a stroke, this 'free' forgiveness is a clear advantage.

Traditionalists may lament the apparent disappearance of the classic, compact putter head, suggesting that the pure feel and feedback of a 'true' blade is lost in the modern, often bulky design, yet technology in the golf equipment space operates without sentiment.

If there are undeniable, measurable, and repeatable ways to make an already difficult task marginally easier and more consistent, those whose incomes depend on shaving strokes will absolutely find and adopt them.

The transition from blade to high-MOI mallet isn't just a trend; it's an evolution driven by cold, hard data and the relentless pursuit of an edge. The touring professionals are showing us, in no uncertain terms, where putting technology is heading.

For the amateur golfer still clinging to the past, perhaps it’s time to pay attention to what the world’s best are telling us: in the era of high-tech golf, forgiveness is king, even in the shortest club in the bag. The traditional blade, while beautiful, is fast becoming a relic of a bygone era on the professional circuit.

In the fiercely competitive world of professional tournament golf, every piece of equipment is scrutinized, and every choice is a strategic decision. Players and their teams meticulously select drivers, irons, and shafts in the pursuit of even the slightest performance edge.

Yet, when it comes to grips, Golf Pride seems to have established such a level of dominance that I can’t think of another brand that even comes close to being as well-represented in a DP World or PGA Tour field.

Before I saw these statistics, if someone had asked me what the most dominant single piece of equipment at any tour event was, my instinct would have taken me towards the eternally popular Titleist golf ball. However, despite producing some seriously impressive numbers in its own right, with 68.8% of the recent BMW PGA Championship field using a Titleist ball (nearest competitor 13%), even those figures are dwarfed by Golf Pride's presence.

Statistics from the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth show that of the 138 players in the field, an astonishing 133 had at least one Golf Pride grip in their bag, representing 96.4% of the field. This is not just a strong showing; it’s a near-monopoly of a category among the world's best players.

This choice becomes even more interesting when you delve deeper into the numbers. Looking specifically at iron grips, for example, 127 players used Golf Pride, and perhaps more tellingly for me, 100 of these players used a non-standard model, size, or technology.

As a grip nerd, this is intriguing to me, as it means that these players aren't just defaulting to the brand; they are actively seeking out a specific configuration that gives them the exact feel and performance they need.

While Golf Pride's standard Tour Velvet grips accounted for the largest single model in play, with 29 players using them, even on those grips, many of the players will adopt their own specific taping configuration to personalise the ‘standard’ grip, and all the data shows that customization is still king.

For example, the MCC family of products, on its own, accounted for 57 of the 138 driver grips in play, showcasing the popularity of a model that combines a corded upper hand for playability in a multitude of weather conditions, and a softer lower hand for feel.

The sheer variety of custom options on display at Wentworth, from different cord patterns to oversized models, ribbed grips, round grips, taper and non-taper grips, highlights that even within a single brand, almost every top player has a unique preference or requirement.

This is something I have personally been banging the drum about for as long as I can remember. Amateur golfers, in my opinion, in general, are simply not asking enough questions about, or getting enough out of their grips.

Whether it is a sizing issue not allowing optimal hand placement or wrist function, or another issue, such as not utilizing the benefits and face awareness of a ribbed grip, golfers are leaving shots out there.

As a PGA Professional and former club fitter, I would implore you to get out there and experiment with this part of your equipment.

The grip is the only direct point of contact a player has with the club, and in a game where a fraction of an inch can be the difference between a perfect shot and a missed green, having a grip that feels right and that you can trust is critical.

As a PGA Professional and equipment tester, I've had the incredible privilege of spending the last year interviewing some of the world's best golfers, specifically about their golf bags.

From major champions to rising stars, I've had a unique glimpse into their minds, their methods, and the tools of their trade, and while every player is a unique individual, certain themes and philosophies about equipment emerged from these conversations. Here’s a look at what I've learned about how the pros approach their gear.

The BEST Players Know Their Gear

In many cases, I've observed a direct correlation between a player's knowledge of their equipment and their achievements in the game. The best players aren't just blindly trusting a tour rep or a launch monitor; they are actively involved in the fine-tuning of their clubs - in fact, a good few, such as Ian Poulter, Richard Bland, and Retief Goosen, actually do much of their own club building.

A prime example of the level of detail top players go to became apparent in a ‘What’s In The Bag’ interview with the leading all-time European Ryder Cup points scorer, former world number two and Masters champion Sergio Garcia. Arguably the highest-profile player I've spoken to, Garcia knew every little specification of his equipment down to the exact loft and lies.

He even employs a highly unorthodox setup of heavy counterbalance weights (30g in his irons and wedges) in the butt end of his clubs. This allows him to increase the overall weight for stability without raising the swing weight, giving him the exact feel he wants. This is the level of knowledge, feel, and detail I'm talking about.

In contrast, many of the lower-ranked players I've spent time with very often say they have little interest in their equipment, preferring to let the technicians on the tour trucks handle all the thinking for them. A large number of them don't know why they are in a particular shaft, how many layers of tape are under their grips, or even the approximate loft and lie of their irons.

While without a shadow of doubt they are working incredibly hard on their techniques, mental and physical conditioning, I can't help but feel that a little more attention to detail regarding their equipment could offer that additional one percent they are seeking to advance their careers.

The best of the best all seem to take this no-compromise approach. Tiger Woods famously knew every detail of his specifications, including using different grip taping between his woods and irons and using wooden dowels in his iron shafts to fine-tune feel.

Jack Nicklaus was notoriously fussy about the sole grind of his irons and the thickness of his grips, while TaylorMade Tour Rep Adrian Rietveld told us that world number one Scottie Scheffler can go through 30 grips on an individual club just to find the perfect feel. Is this a coincidence? Not in my opinion.

Of course, there are always exceptions to rules, and one of those may be two-time Masters Champion Bubba Watson, who certainly doesn't know a lot of the technical terminology, but his unorthodox grip setup with something like 16 wraps of tape under a ribbed grip that is oriented about 30 degrees open shows that his feel is paramount.

Tour Pros Travel with a Lot of Clubs

While the rules state they can only carry 14 clubs in a competitive round, almost every tour player I have come across travels to every event with far more.

On practice days, the players I have spent time with all had a minimum of 18 clubs in their bag. This usually consisted of a choice between a utility or driving iron and a lofted fairway wood, as well as a variety of wedges of different lofts and sole grinds to match up to the specific conditions.

I was surprised to learn that several players even travel with two sets of the same wedges, but of different ages. The purpose of this is simple: if the greens are soft and the conditions are particularly "spinny," a player will select their older set with more worn grooves to minimize spin.

If the greens are firm and fast, they will use their fresher set to provide maximum grip and stopping power. This level of preparation is remarkable.

In addition to this, almost everyone carries spare drivers to cover the event of a breakage, which is more common than you may think.

Finally, I was surprised at just how many players travel with at least a couple of putter options, or could be seen testing numerous demo models around the putting green.

Tour Pros LOVE Older Equipment

Perhaps the most surprising finding of all is that I can’t think of a single player I've interviewed who has had a full bag of this season's clubs. Instead, they all favored the familiarity and trusted performance of (significantly in some cases) older models in key areas of the bag.

Former US Open Champion Matt Fitzpatrick, for example, was using some Ping S55 irons released in 2013 and was onto a second head of a Titleist TSi3 driver, having cracked his previous gamer at the 2024 BMW Championship.

Henrik Stenson was using the same Callaway Legacy Black irons and a Callaway Diablo 3-wood he has been using for over a decade, and Ian Poulter had been delving back into his archives to dig out a very old tour-only, half-mallet Odyssey putter in order to address a poor putting spell.

2018 Masters Champion Patrick Reed had a seriously interesting mixed bag, including a Titleist T-MB 2-iron from 2016 and a set of Grindworks irons he had been wielding for over five years.

The major equipment manufacturers and their marketing teams tell us over and over again that the latest equipment is longer, more forgiving, and just generally better year on year, but this love for older, trusted gear amongst players who can access anything they want is a testament to the fact that when something works, you stick with it, no matter how new the latest model may be.

With the final teams now selected, the countdown is truly on for the 45th edition of golf's greatest team rivalry, with the ‘Battle of Bethpage’ set to commence later this month in New York. Team USA will be looking to bounce back after suffering defeat to Europe in Rome two years ago. Home support is sure to play a big part, with the visitors facing a partisan crowd in the sports-crazed city of New York. It is expected that over 225,000 golf fans will converge in Bethpage at the end of September.

In a tribute to the brutal test that awaits the 24 players from Team Europe and Team USA, Under Armour has launched its new Warning Golf Collection. The line is a direct nod to one of the game’s most feared layouts, with the course's infamous 'Warning Sign' at the first tee serving as its inspiration. Bethpage Black, situated on Long Island and in close proximity to New York City, has become an iconic setting for golf. As the premier layout within America’s most famous municipal clubs, it has previously hosted numerous top-level tournaments and three Major Championships, and now takes its place as a fitting venue for the event.

The course stretches to well over 7,400 yards and is defined by pinched fairways unforgivingly lined with penal rough. Its plateaued greens, protected by some of the deepest bunkers in golf, serve to punish any wayward play. The course’s reputation for a punishing test of skill is cemented by its 'Warning Sign' at the first tee, which declares the Black course is 'only for highly skilled golfers.'

Under Armour's ‘Warning’ collection is now available at select retailers to honour this challenge. Key pieces in the line-up include the Playoff Warning Polo, available in Midnight Navy and White/Grey, alongside the UA Icon Warning Hoodie in Midnight Navy and Royal Blue. The collection also features the versatile Drive Pro Hybrid midlayer, offered in both Royal Blue and Midnight Navy, while the accessories are headlined by the Drive 5 Panel Cap in Midnight Navy.

Richard Palmer-Jones from Under Armour Golf commented on the launch, 'The test that lies ahead for many of the world’s best players in New York will form the heartbeat of what is going to be a truly memorable event at Bethpage.'

Palmer-Jones continued, 'Any golf course that comes with its own ‘Warning’ should be taken very seriously, and we felt it was a great way to pay our respects by launching this exciting apparel line-up. Under Armour’s ‘Warning’ collection offers a bright and refreshing look that will appeal to many golfers who are looking to stand out on the course with a nod to one of the most famous team sport events.'

Titleist has recently announced the launch of a new fairway wood to sit alongside the three other models in the GT family. The GT1 3Tour has been created on the back of tour-player feedback, with Titleist staff players looking for a combination of high-launch and low-spin with the forgiveness that the original GT1 fairway wood offers.

The GT1 3Tour fairway wood has already proven to be a hit on the PGA Tour, with players such as Doug Ghim and Cameron Davis having recently chosen to put it in play. While tour-inspired, the characteristics of this club certainly make us feel as though it could be a popular option among amateur golfers looking to increase their distance while not sacrificing the forgiveness that normally comes with a lower-launching product.

So how does the GT1 3Tour differ to the original GT1? To start, the GT1 3Tour comes in a ‘tour loft’ of 14.5° compared to the standard 15° option. The center of gravity is lowered, yet closer to the face, thanks to a dual adjustable weighting system which allows players to precisely dial in a preferred ball flight, alongside the SureFit adjustable hosel system.

The standard GT1 fairway wood is the brand's highest launching and most forgiving fairway wood option, made from a lighter construction than GT2 and GT3, and therefore is the go-to club for slower swingers to help gain more carry and ultimately more distance.

Combining this head design with a lowered loft and CG placement, the GT1 3Tour launches a little lower and with a more powerful ball flight, all while boasting the performance benefits of the lighter, more forgiving head.

The hosel has been redesigned internally to create even more weight savings, which can be redistributed to help increase the desired performance. The two weights that come as standard on the GT1 3Tour are 11g and 3g. To achieve a more penetrating flight, the 11g weight would be placed in the port towards the face and vice versa if you wanted to increase launch and forgiveness.

“Tour feedback is incredibly valuable, so we involve our players in testing for all products — even those that may be designed with a different player in mind,” said JJ Van Wezenbeeck, Titleist’s Senior Director of Club Promotions.

“During GT1 fairway testing, we found some tour players really loved the shaping and face height, but we knew that many of them would need a little less loft and lower CG for a stronger flight. Tom Bennett [Principal Product Manager, Titleist Metalwood R&D] and the R&D team were able to give us a product in GT1 3TOUR that gave us all the benefits of the GT1 shaping while lowering spin to a more optimal window for those players. Since bringing it out on tour, we’ve seen strong adoption from several players who like a shallow, easy-to-launch design, but need a little less spin.”

The GT1 3Tour boasts the same shallow head that is on offer with the GT1, helping create a confidence-inspiring look behind the head that will appeal to golfers who struggle to launch their fairway woods, particularly off the deck. However, because of its adjustability via the weight ports and hosel, the GT1 3Tour could easily be considered not only one of the best fairway woods for higher handicappers, but also one of the best fairway woods for high swing speed players looking to create a more penetrating flight.

The new Titleist GT1 3Tour fairway wood is now available to purchase and for fittings on the Titleist US website and select retailers in the UK. It is priced at $399/£349 with stock shaft options and $599 with premium shaft offerings.

In the high-stakes world of professional golf, every marginal gain counts. While serious golf fans eagerly await the latest retail releases from their favorite brands, a fascinating and often elusive category of equipment exists: "tour-only" gear.

This isn't a new phenomenon; it has always been the case that there are certain clubs, balls, and various other equipment reserved exclusively for the elite players on global tours.

The reasons for the existence of this category are fundamentally pragmatic: the playing requirements and often high swing speeds of the world's best professionals are vastly different from those of the average amateur, and as such, it simply wouldn't be prudent or financially viable for manufacturers to mass-produce such niche, highly specialized products for a broader market.

Across virtually every category of equipment – from drivers and fairway woods to irons, wedges, putters, and even golf balls – most major manufacturers maintain a discreet inventory of "tour-only" products, meticulously crafted and reserved solely for their staff players. These aren't always entirely new designs, but rather highly refined variations of retail models, tailored to extract every ounce of performance from swings that defy amateur comprehension.

In the realm of metalwoods, "tour-only" typically manifests as subtle yet impactful tweaks to characteristics like Center of Gravity (CG) placement and head shape. These modifications are designed to fine-tune launch, spin, and trajectory for players who generate extreme clubhead speeds.

A prime example currently making waves is the TaylorMade Qi10 'dot' head. This elusive driver, seen in the bags of top stars like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, is a unique blend of the retail Qi10 LS (Low Spin) and the standard Qi10 models. It offers a specific combination of spin characteristics and head shape that isn't available to the public, providing a bespoke solution for their individual needs.

I could reel off numerous examples of tour-only driver models from various manufacturers, but in some very rare instances, a product does so well on tour that a manufacturer will decide it has some merit in the retail market and will release some limited quantities. This exact scenario happened a couple of years ago with Callaway and its Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Max driver.

The iron category is perhaps where the "tour-only" phenomenon becomes most evident and somewhat romanticized, with manufacturers often going to extraordinary lengths to create special, one-off versions of their irons, or "prototypes," specifically for their staff players.

Titleist is a prime example of a company that will craft bespoke sets for its elite athletes. Players like Justin Thomas, Cameron Young, and Adam Scott have all been known to play sets of irons that feature unique grind work, subtle offset adjustments, or internal weighting configurations not found in standard retail offerings.

Similarly, TaylorMade has a rich history of producing custom irons for its biggest names. Rory McIlroy, for instance, famously plays "Rors Proto" irons, which are essentially highly customized versions based on the classic P730 blade design.

Likewise, Dustin Johnson has wielded his "DJ Proto" irons for many years now, also derived from the P730 model, featuring specific sole grinds and leading-edge characteristics tailored to his unique swing and turf interaction.

The short game is where fractions of degrees and millimeters of design can make a monumental difference to shot outcomes.

If you walk around the putting green at any PGA Tour event, you will inevitably see countless subtly different versions of otherwise familiar putter models from brands like Odyssey, TaylorMade, Scotty Cameron, and more. These variations generally feature custom neck styles, shaft options, and, crucially, a far greater variety of alignment aids than are available at retail.

A player might prefer a single dot, a triple line, a specific sightline length, or a unique milled pattern that perfectly frames the ball for their eye; all of these are on offer to the tour player.

Wedges, too, often receive special treatment. While retail wedges offer various bounce and grind options, tour pros might have specific sole shaping requirements, hand-ground to suit their exact angle of attack and the particular course conditions they expect. This ensures optimal turf interaction and spin control from any lie.

Even the golf ball, seemingly a standardized piece of equipment, has "tour-only" versions that you or I cannot easily lay our curious hands on! While the core technology remains consistent with retail models, some manufacturers, including Titleist and Callaway (and likely others), produce balls with subtle tweaks to their cover composition, dimple pattern, or core compression.

These minute changes can influence spin rates, launch characteristics, or feel, providing an almost imperceptible advantage that only the most sensitive and high-speed players can detect and utilize.

Beyond their performance benefits, "tour-only" products often carry a high value on the online secondary market. Their scarcity, combined with the allure of owning the exact equipment wielded by the game's biggest stars, creates a significant "cool" factor. Collectors and avid golfers are willing to pay a premium for these elusive pieces, transforming them into highly sought-after memorabilia.

In essence, "tour-only" equipment is a testament to the hyper-specialized nature of professional golf. It highlights the incredible demands placed on players and the lengths to which manufacturers will go to provide their athletes with every conceivable advantage, even if those advantages remain just out of reach for the rest of us.

If you’re in the market for a new set of wedges that offer a tour-validated shape and the latest in technology to help with spin and control, then you’re in luck because Callaway has just launched their new Opus SP wedges. The previous generation of Opus wedges offered a clean aesthetic and produced a significant amount of spin, but it appears that the Opus SP wedges have taken things to the next level and are set to become the best Callaway Wedges ever made.

So what does SP stand for? Spin Pocket Construction. It’s Callaway’s latest invention to help the golfer have more control than ever through a lower launch and maximum spin. The head has been re-engineered by utilizing a two-piece design to reshape the head and shift the center of gravity higher in the head to lower the launch. This gives you maximum control over the ball flight and is what allows the pros to hit those low checking pitch shots that stop on a dime after two or three bounces.

To go alongside the low launch and maximize spin, Callaway has introduced a Spin Gen 2.0 face to help create as much friction against the ball as possible. This is a re-modeled version of the original Spin Gen face design that sees the grooves sit at a new 17° angle, all while packed tighter together for maximum spin, regardless of the lie you face. The face is then cross-hatch lasered to enhance spin, particularly when sliding across the ball when playing shots with an open face.

Of course, while a wedge can perform as well as you want it to, you need to love the look of the head down behind the ball to inspire confidence. The Opus SP wedges are tour-validated, designed to offer a clean and compact look at address, and have seen some immediate take-up on tour with players such as Xander Schauffele, Jon Rahm, and Min Woo Lee all putting them in play at the Genesis Scottish Open.

It was on the 6th prototype that tour players validated the shaping for the Opus SP wedges, and from there they were put into production for tour seeding and testing with both a brushed chrome and black shadow finish available. One thing that looks as though it could be a big sell for both professionals and amateur golfers who play Callaway irons is that the Opus SP gap wedges have been designed with progressive shaping to help seamlessly blend the wedges into the irons for a more cohesive look throughout the set.

The Opus SP wedges will come to retail in six different grind options and nine different lofts, providing the perfect wedge setup for golfers, regardless of what conditions they usually play on. While many of the same grinds that were available on the Opus wedges return, the Opus SP wedges see the return of the X-grind. This versatile grind with 12° of bounce is for those who want forgiveness while trying to execute a variety of shots, particularly opening the face in firmer conditions.

We think the Callaway Opus wedges look superb thanks to the multiple finish options, compact design, and can’t wait to get them on the course for some testing. Make sure to check back to the site later in the week to read our full review of the Opus SP wedges.

Pricing, Specs And Availability

On Sale: 22/08/2025
Pricing: $199/£179
Finishes: Brushed Chrome & Black Shadow
Specs: TT Dynamic Gold S200 – 120 (Steel) G, UST Recoil Dart HDC – 50g & 60g (Graphite)

The Open Championship, staged this year on the impressive links of Royal Portrush, is revered as golf's purest test. It demands precision, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to some of the more traditional nuances of the game. Yet, amidst the serious preparations for golf's oldest major, a curious and highly unconventional story emerged from the practice rounds: Bryson DeChambeau, the game's most analytical and often eccentric figure, was spotted testing a non-conforming golf ball.

The revelation came via Smylie Kaufman's popular Instagram account, "The Smylie Show," which captured DeChambeau on the Portrush links with a Polara Ultimate Straight golf ball. Kaufman, alongside DeChambeau’s playing partner Laurie Canter, could be heard giggling in the background, seemingly amused by DeChambeau's playful experimentation.

The ball in question, the Polara Ultimate Straight, is non-comforming under the rules of golf, having been designed with "self-correcting technology" that claims to "reduce hooks and slices by up to 75%." Its unique dimple pattern is engineered to minimize aerodynamic side spin, supposedly making it fly remarkably straight, regardless of a golfer's swing flaws.

For a player like DeChambeau, who has been vocally struggling to find a ball he's happy with this year, feeling that most standard balls create too much curvature at his extremely high swing speeds, the allure of such a concept is perhaps understandable. He's a player who is constantly pushing boundaries in equipment to eliminate variables, and excessive side spin is clearly one of the variables on his hit list.

Back in early March, the American revealed he had changed his golf ball from the Titleist Pro V1x Left Dash to the normal Pro V1x. Explaining his move to the Pro V1x, DeChambeau stated: "It seems to be flying the most consistent for me. A little bit lower flighting, a little bit more control with my half shots.

"That was a big thing. Left Dash is a great golf ball in firm conditions, but when it got soft, it just super spun, and then when I tried to take half shots off of the Left Dash, it would just knuckle, so I wouldn't get enough spin.

"I (now) have a little bit more spin throughout the bag, but on the half shots, I have a little more spin to control the golf ball on those greens a little bit.

"We haven't solved the wet and dry conditions problem, but I'm working hard to figure it out, and there's a couple cool options that are being prototyped, and we'll see where it goes. I just like pushing the envelope with innovation a little bit. It excites me."

This bizarre cameo, however, raises several intriguing questions. Is the practice day of The Open Championship, one of the most demanding events in golf, truly an appropriate testing ground for a non-conforming golf ball? While practice rounds are often used for dialing in equipment and strategy, most players are focused on perfecting their conforming setup for the impending tournament, rather than testing a golf ball that could not even be put into play!

DeChambeau's decision to even entertain such a novelty in this environment could be seen by some as a distraction to his preparations; however, as we know, he doesn’t often conform to normal concepts.

One might speculate that it was merely a moment of lighthearted fun, a break from the intense pressure of major championship preparation; however, DeChambeau is known for his curious mind and willingness to explore unconventional avenues. There is every chance that it was a genuine fact-finding mission, an extreme test to understand the absolute limits of ball flight and how much side spin can truly be mitigated, even if the ball itself is illegal for competition. It could provide him with insights into how different aerodynamic properties affect his unique swing, which he might then apply in some way to his conforming ball selection.

Regardless of his true intent, the image of Bryson DeChambeau experimenting with a Polara ball at The Open's practice facility is a quintessential Bryson moment – a blend of scientific curiosity, a touch of showmanship, and an unwavering commitment to finding new ways to conquer the game, even if it means venturing far outside the conventional boundaries.

Ahead of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland, TravisMathew has teamed up with Guinness to create the ultimate limited-edition golf shoe, fitting of arguably the most prestigious event in the game.

The limited-edition TravisMathew x Guinness Daily Pro Hybrid Plus golf shoe, available now, can boast a long list of special features that make it truly unique while still offering that all-important comfort and performance golfers expect on the course.

Details like the Guinness branding on the heel, a co-branded tongue lockup and the insole artwork are all subtle nods to the popular Irish drink enjoyed around the world. Even the all-terrain grip outsole, which is engineered for traction on every surface, visually echoes a freshly poured pint of the black stuff.

Made with a premium synthetic upper, this shoe offers 100 percent waterproof protection in a rich, deep brown hue inspired by the iconic Guinness pint. It's a limited-edition look that performs in any weather while the responsive midsole paired with a cushioned insole delivers all-day support and step-in comfort.

Each pair is part of a collector’s kit that includes a matching Odyssey putter cover and comes housed in a custom designed shoe-box.

“Partnering with Guinness felt like a natural fit, as both brands share a commitment to premium quality and storytelling,” says TravisMathew CMO Leif Sunderland.

“This collaboration brings together Guinness’ heritage with TravisMathew’s modern style in a way that feels fresh and true to both. With The Open at Royal Portrush this week, we’re excited to share this moment alongside a great moment in golf.”

If you want this eye-catching shoe for yourself you need to act fast as only 1,759 pairs will ever be made - a deliberate reference to Guinness’ founding year of 1759 - available now.

Learn More And Claim Your Special Pair Here

To celebrate the launch of this shoe, TravisMathew and Guinness recently visited the historic Askernish Golf Club - one of the last remaining authentic Old Tom Morris courses - on Scotland’s South Uist island in the Outer Hebrides. The visit inspired an emotive short film, capturing the spirit of collaboration through Guinness’s signature storytelling, while showcasing the exclusive product. You can view the film below.

Royal Portrush Golf Club is just a stone’s throw away from The Harbour Bar, famed for hosting Open stars in years past and serving a world-renowned pint of Guinness.

On ‘moving day’ at the 2025 US Open, Adam Scott did exactly that, firing a superb three under par 67 to vault himself up the leaderboard and into a tie for second place heading into Sunday’s final round.

While his golf was truly exceptional, as an equipment writer, it is his golf bag that really caught my attention during Saturday’s play.

Over the past few seasons, Scott has earned himself a reputation as one of the biggest tinkerers in the professional game, relentlessly testing clubs and regularly making wholesale changes from week to week. Interestingly, this is at complete odds with how he went about his business for much of his career, remaining in the same irons and general bag setup for years. However, when his partnership with Titleist ran its course a few years ago, Scott seized the opportunity to shop around various manufacturers, and seemingly hasn’t stopped since.

However, at the US Open this week, the tinkering is extreme, even for him. Since his last tournament two weeks ago at the Memorial, Scott is sporting a full new set of irons, a new putter, and a new ‘driving iron’, in addition to a switch in his fairway wood setup he made just two weeks ago!

Starting with his irons, this area of his bag has been a merry-go-round of different models over the past two or three years. At Memorial, he was gaming a custom set of Titleist 681 AS blades made specifically for him and based very much on the iron he played for the majority of his career with Titleist.

However, Scott turned up at Oakmont this week with a set of Miura AS-1 irons that he has been in and out of for a few seasons now. These are some of the cleanest-looking irons in the game, featuring his custom ‘AS’ logo, and were very much a collaborative effort between Scott and Miura, with the Australian even paying a visit to the Miura factory in Japan to oversee production. They feature significantly more offset than many of the best blades you will see at retail, as this is a look Scott has always gravitated towards.

Furthermore, it looks like he has added the yet-to-be-released Titleist T250 3-iron into the mix too, following a visit to the Titleist’s European Performance Centre at Woburn, England. The 3-iron looks to be shafted up with a Graphite Design Tour AD-VF hybrid 105-X shaft.

The very top end of the bag has not been immune to rotation either, with a shift in the mini-driver/3-wood area. His TaylorMade BRNR mini-driver had become a staple in his bag for over a year, but at the Truist Championships a few weeks ago, Scott switched this out for a 16.5˚ TaylorMade Qi35 3-wood. This was short-lived lived however, as the mini-driver returned at the Memorial. However, the BRNR had been upgraded to the new, more adjustable R7 Quad mini-driver from TaylorMade, and that has stayed in the bag for this week's US Open.

Finally, Scott decided to switch up the (not so in his case) short stick, opting for a change of colour from a blue LAB Mezz.1 Max to a green version. We’ve had no indication whether this is a purely aesthetic change or whether there has been a weight alteration to cope with the pace of Oakmont's putting surfaces, but either way, it’s a very on-brand move for Scott right now.

For context here, generally speaking, it can take weeks or even months for tour reps to try and get new products into most tour pros' bags. With players so sensitive to even the most minor changes, and with so much at stake, they are incredibly careful and precious about the idea of switching clubs at the best of times, let alone the week of the US Open around arguably the toughest golf course on the US Open rota! The fact that Scott can make such wholesale changes, adapt so quickly, and perform as he has so far is nothing short of remarkable.

If Adam Scott can get over the line on Sunday and lift the US Open trophy, it will be a victory celebrated by gear nerds and tinkerers across the globe! Myself included!

Adam Scott US Open WITB: Full Specs

Driver: Titleist GT2, 10˚ in the C2 setting. Mitsubishi Diamana WB 63 TX shaft.
Mini-Driver: TaylorMade R7 Quad 13.5˚ (1 click lower) . Mitsubishi Diamana WB 73 TX shaft.
5-wood: TaylorMade Qi10 core model. Mitsubishi Diamana WB 83 TX shaft.
9-wood: TaylorMade Qi10 core model. Fujikura Ventus TR Blue 9 X shaft.
3-iron: Titleist T250. Graphite Design Tour AD-VF 105-X shaft.
Irons: 5- 9 iron, Miura AS-1. Project X LZ 6.5 shafts.
Wedges: Titleist Vokey Design SM9 (48-10F), Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (54-14F), WedgeWorks Proto (60-K*). Project X LZ 6.5 in the 48˚, True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 in the 54˚ and 60˚.
Putter: LAB Mezz.1 Max (Green) Sweeper.
Ball: Titleist Pro V1
Clothing: Uniqlo

After disrupting the ball market, Vice Golf is now making its mark in golf clubs with a full line-up of premium, custom-built equipment.

All of Vice Golf's clubs, from driver through to irons and putter, are manufactured by experienced experts and hand-built in Germany to the highest standards.

Vice Golf knows that none of us are robots, which is why the brand's equipment has been developed from scratch using millions of real golfer data points, based on 15 years of actual data from everyday players at Vice Labs.

"We analyzed what actually helps 99% of golfers, not just the 1% on tour," says Vice Golf co-founder Ingo Duellmann.

"The result is clubs that look badass and are engineered specifically to improve your game."

They're built from the ground-up to help players of every level achieve better results and, ultimately, lower scores. And it all comes at a reasonable cost as Vice Golf's clubs are significantly cheaper than comparable clubs from major manufacturers.

Vice Golf does this by cutting out big tour contracts and unnecessary overheads to ensure that consumers can benefit from the brand's premium golf clubs and custom options at a fraction of traditional pricing.

They're not only high quality and affordable, they can also be customized to your own tastes, too, thanks to thousands of customization options including colors, alignment options, and personalization.

Here's what to know about Vice Golf's clubs:

Drivers

Vice Golf's VGD01 and VGD01+ drivers have been designed based on 15 years of data of where golfers need help with the big stick.

They're made with ultralight head weights and a Titanium-Carbon-Aluminum construction that helps increase swing speed and fight slices thanks to draw-biased weighting. They also include innovative alignment features that improve face control.

Whether you need a fairway finder (VGD01) or a low-spin bomber (VGD01+), both of Vice Golf’s drivers are built for speed, forgiveness, and effortless distance. They also come with adjustable loft and lie sleeves to find your perfect fit.

Woods

Vice Golf also has a wood and hybrid on offer in its range. The VGF01 wood is built for high launch, smooth turf interaction, and pinpoint accuracy while the VGH01 hybrid has been designed for forgiveness and versatility.

Irons

Vice Golf has an iron to suit every player's needs, starting with the VGI01, which is a forged players iron made from a two-piece hollow-body construction.

It has concentrated mass behind the hitting zone for distance you'd never expect from such attractive clubs.

Meanwhile, the game-improvement VGI02 model is a performance iron that delivers maximum forgiveness thanks to its casted hollow design and high-rebound face, while it maintains impressive feedback and a surprisingly slim profile.

Both models feature optimized weight distribution and bounce angles specifically engineered from real golfer data, while they're fitted with high-strength faces to stand the test of time. You can also benefit from full customization on both models, too.

Wedges and Putters

Vice Golf also has a premium forged wedge in the form of the VGW01 that is made with specialized bounce and grind options as well as a full-groove face.

The company's 100% forged and milled Putters, which have a 6-hour CNC time per head, offer stunning looks and provide an exceptional feel.

Both the bladed VGP01 and VGP02 mallet Putters are fully customizable, too, to give consumers a unique flat stick that looks great, feels great and helps you hole more putts.

BOOST Starter set

For 2025, Vice Golf introduced the BOOST starter sets for beginners, maintaining its commitment to making great golf equipment accessible to everyone.

The new BOOST Starter Sets blend modern technology, premium materials, and forgiving club geometry so that newer golfers can enjoy a solid feel, reliable distance, and consistent results right from their first swing. And all for less than £500.

Golf Monthly recently tested the BOOST set, saying: "The Vice Boost Starter Set offers beginner golfers a superb-looking set of clubs and bag. The driver and hybrid offer generous distance and the irons produce a towering ball-flight, ideal for those getting into the game. The quality and performance of this set should also appeal to intermediate golfers looking to upgrade their current set for an appealing price."

Vice Golf also has a new, revolutionary online fitting tool that makes custom clubs accessible to everyone. It uses the same data-driven approach that powers the clubs themselves to ensure that golfers are able to get precisely the right specs for their games.

Bottom line: Vice Golf clubs are the real deal thanks to premium materials, advanced engineering, genuine customization, and prices that make sense.

When your clubs are built on actual player data instead of tour player demands, good things happen to your scorecard.

Vice Golf full bag prices:

• VGD01+ Driver ($399)
• VGD01 Driver ($299)
• Woods ($219)
• Hybrids ($189)
• VGI01 Players Irons ($115 per club)
• VGI02 Performance Irons ($99 per club)
• Wedges ($109)
• Putters (Blade = $199, Mallet =$249)

Head to the Vice Golf website for more

The next generation of golf’s most awarded stand bag, the VESSEL Player V is here to give you the ultimate carry experience - as recognized in Golf Monthly's 2025 Editor's Choice Awards.

The Player V is the company's best-selling golf bag and has been designed for best-in-class performance.

VESSEL believes that everyone has a purpose, and theirs is to create exceptional products that help golfers pursue their purpose – whether they’re a professional athlete, creative or weekend golfer.

Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Carlsbad, California, VESSEL began by handcrafting custom golf bags for tour professionals. Known for detailed craftsmanship and intentional design, the company quickly became the trusted choice of carry on Tour.

As VESSEL evolved, they saw an opportunity to bring their performance-first design to more than just the course – expanding into Travel, Lifestyle and Tennis. Every product is built to elevate the experience, seamlessly blending form, function and innovation.

The company pushes the limits of material technology with features like antimicrobial linings, carbon fiber textile and magnetic closure pockets. Every feature fulfills a purpose – every element reflects refinement.

But VESSEL was never just about making the best bags. From the beginning, they’ve aimed to make a meaningful impact through their Buy A Bag, Give A Bag initiative.

For every bag sold, VESSEL donates a school backpack to a child in need. To date, over 150,000 backpacks have been donated globally. And they’re just getting started.

Vessel Player V Stand Bag

The VESSEL Player V is the next generation of the best-selling Player Stand Bag.

From the hidden valuables pocket to the beverage compartments, each pocket has been carefully designed and placed to improve organization, accessibility and on-course convenience.

The Player V utilizes VESSEL’s patented technologies for maximum balance and superior stability. Intentionally placed high strap-attachment points promote further balance and eliminate club fallout while the bag is being carried.

A key feature upgrade is the addition of a cart strap pass-through for added protection on a cart or trolley.

The Player V showcases the brand's signature attention to detail through premium trims and tour-grade materials so you can look and play your best.

High-class components include Tour-grade body material for year-round performance, antimicrobial lining, genuine leather touchpoints, carbon fiber legs and a velour-lined top

VESSEL’s Player V Stand Bag features:

• 6-&-14 Way Top Options
• Full-length dividers
• Cart strap pass-through for protection when used on a golf cart or push trolley
• Magnetic pockets for quick-access to essentials
• Superior top design | Scratch-free, rivetless top and anti-tip club orientation
• Jam-resistant club divider prevents club grips from jamming when the legs are fully deployed

Vessel Father’s Day Offer: Save $75

This Father’s Day, celebrate the dad who does it all with gifts that match his style, performance, and passion with $75 off VESSEL golf bags.

Whether he’s chasing birdies on the back nine, catching a flight for a business trip, or heading into the weekend with purpose, VESSEL offers premium gear designed to keep up and stand out.

• $75 OFF golf bags with code: VSL75
• June 9 - Jun 15, 2025
• Player V Stand: was $429, now $354
• Only at vesselgolf.com
• Excludes Limited Edition items. Terms & conditions apply.

For more, visit the VESSEL website.

If you’re a golfer determined to improve your game, then analysing your performance on the course is a must. It’s something that all professionals and their teams do to ensure they’re constantly improving weaker areas of their game to compete at the highest level. While hiring a team to help you analyse your game is an unlikely prospect for most, the new SkyCaddie SuperTags help you feel like you do, thanks to their clever ability to not only track your vital statistics but also provide clubhead and swing feedback.

For the first time, one Tag now shows your whole game, including a movie of every swing you make while out on the golf course. It’s like having a cameraman follow you for 18 holes, but the SuperTags are the perfect accessory to help serious golfers improve their game.

While grinding away on the range is fine when ironing out lingering swing flaws, it’s on the course where you put your swing to the test and have to execute shots on demand, under pressure. Being able to see feedback on these swings, as well as the result of the shots themselves, is what will help you understand where your swing or the choices you’re making on the course need some work. The best part about the SkyCaddie SuperTags that track this information is that they are lightweight and simply plug into the bottom of your grips, causing no distraction to the golfer focused on the task at hand.

The tags are a component of SkyGolf’s GameTraX360 system, which sees the tags sync up with software either on your smartphone or the latest generation of SkyCaddie GPS devices such as the PRO5X, PRO4X or SX550. From here, you can not only reflect on your rounds once home, but you can see 3D-visualisations of every shot you hit on the course that day - camera free! Unlike other tracking devices, the SkyCaddie SuperTags require no extra output from you for the tags to do their job. Once they are connected at the start of the round, you can play with no interference.

The clever SuperTags feature, what SkyGolf calls AirSwing Technology, is an addition to these tags that sets them apart from other game tracking devices on the market. These tags let golfers capture swing metrics both on the course, on the range, and even indoors. For those who can’t get enough of working on their swing, even when at home, use these tags to track clubhead speed, swing path and many other launch monitor parameters without even having to hit a ball. The clubhead tracking is also applicable and extremely accurate when it comes to putting, saving you from spending extra money on separate training aids that provide similar data.

One of the most beneficial factors of the SkyCaddie SuperTags is the simplified Strokes Gained analysis. Strokes Gained is a metric used on major professional tours to compare an individual’s performance against the rest of the field for a particular round, event, or even season. The SuperTags let you compare your data gathered to golfers in particular handicap ranges, whether that be against others of a similar handicap or those obtaining a handicap you happen to be working towards. This kind of tracking and analysis, as well as being able to see club data from the shots that caused you to rise or fall in these statistics, as well as the 3D visualisations of each swing you made today, is truly what sets the SuperTags apart from other tracking devices on the market.

If you’re looking to receive tour-level feedback on both your swing and your game as a whole, then you needn’t look any further than the SkyCaddie SuperTags. The revolutionary technology in these tags helps them firmly assert themselves as an industry leader when it comes to tracking technology.

To ensure you get the most out of your SkyCaddie SuperTags it would be recommended that you go for a pack of 14 (£499) one for each club in the bag, but if you did want to test the waters or perhaps even replace damaged or lost tags, you can purchase a 4-pack (£199) or an individual tag for £79. You can purchase your SkyCaddie SuperTags and all other SkyGolf equipment and memberships at the SkyCaddie Website.

The importance of a golfer's grip on the club is one of the most overlooked factors in golf, and wearing a good golf glove is vital to ensuring a golfer's control, accuracy, and comfort. The Bionic RelaxGrip 2.0 DX golf glove features an abundance of performance design features that make it stand out as one of the most technologically advanced golf gloves on the market.

All golfers have experienced the annoyance of a quickly wearing and poorly fitting golf glove, but the Bionic RelaxGrip 2.0 DX Golf Glove has been designed with complete performance in mind. Designed under the eye of an orthopaedic hand specialist, the RelaxGrip 2.0 DX, alongside all of Bionic’s gloves, has been formed with the hand's natural anatomy in mind.

For 15% off apply the code RELAX15 at checkout here.

While the RelaxGrip 2.0 DX golf glove boasts the same classic features as the standard RelaxGrip 2.0, it gets its name from the patented Dual Expansion Zone technology, which naturally adapts to any thumb's length and width, providing a more custom fit, acting as a second skin. The impressive design of this glove doesn’t stop there; almost every section of this glove has been worked on to provide superior comfort and control.

The patented relief pad system runs across the surface of the palm, allowing for a lighter grip on the club and allowing the golfer to extend the swing for increased distance. Bionic’s patented innovations have been independently tested, showing that golfers who wore a Bionic glove achieved 4-7 yards longer off the tee without impacting their natural accuracy.

As if the multiple padding and guiding zones on the RelaxGrip 2.0 DX gloves weren’t enough, they have also been created with fatigue in mind. A pre-rotated finger design follows the natural closure of the golfer's hand, helping to resist any strain and preventing any wasted energy throughout the round.

Aside from all the standout performance features of this glove, it’s all the finer details that make this glove more durable and practical than others on the market. The Bionic RelaxGrip 2.0 DX is made from high-grade Japanese synthetic material that is built to last and withstand its shape after many rounds. While gloves will typically lose shape and stretch, particularly in heat, the RelaxGrip 2.0 DX gloves are designed with a honeycomb lycra web and motion zones, which allow for increased flexibility and the terrycloth micro-pads on the inside of the gloves wick away moisture, keeping your hands dry and cool for additional comfort and control.

If you do happen to play golf on extremely hot days or back-to-back days where the gloves are exposed to a lot of use and perspiration, the RelaxGrip 2.0 DX can be hand-washed or machine-washed at a low temperature (mild detergent and no bleach) and then left to be air-dried to maintain a clean look and increase its lifespan.

Bionic has gone above and beyond any other golf glove brand in the business to ensure the utmost quality and performance for its customers. At $19.99 and available in multiple size options, the Bionic RelaxGrip 2.0 DX glove represents superb value for money. As the golf season ramps up and you need to stock up on gloves, the RelaxGrip 2.0 DX glove is the glove that you need to throw into your rotation.

To purchase the Bionic RelaxGrip 2.0 DX glove or check out any more of the brand's products, visit here. For 15% off apply the code RELAX15 at checkout.

See more on their Instagram and Facebook.

Golfers looking for high performing equipment to take their game to the next level should look no further than some of Mizuno's latest innovations, particularly in the irons and golf ball category.

Iconic Japanese brand Mizuno expertly crafts golf equipment for all levels of golfers, from Major-winning tour professionals to serious amateurs looking to lower their handicap indexes all the way to beginner players wishing to make the game easier.

Let's take a look at two of the brand's latest franchises that are built to help golfers shoot lower scores...

JPX 925 Forged

The saying goes that 'Nothing feels like a Mizuno' and that's what you'll find with the stunning JPX 925 Forged irons, which have been grain-flow forged to give players that buttery, soft feel that Mizuno irons are known for.

The JPX 925 Forged is an iron designed for a wide spectrum of players thanks to its blend of incredible feel along with explosive distance, with this particular model bridging the gap between traditional distance irons and forged blades for a perfect fusion of speed, precision, and feel.

This has been achieved thanks to the company's revolutionary CORTECH Design, with each iron featuring a Contour Elipse Face in what is a significant innovation.

This has brought an entirely new construction method that sees each iron face featuring a multi-thickness profile to optimise ball speed across the entire face - so you'll be forgiven for missing the middle.

CORTECH Design comes in the 4-7 irons, with the scoring clubs, 8-GW, made exclusively from 1025E Pure Select Mild Carbon Steel to ensure precision, control, and that iconic buttery feel for when attacking pins.

The JPX 925 Forged also comes with Mizuno's Triple Cut Sole, which features a gently bevelled leading edge for clean entry into the turf and a hard-cut trailing edge for a smooth exit.

That's combined with carefully balanced weighting to ensure precise control across all surfaces and lies, with the technology meticulously engineered to give golfers more versatility from all conditions, whether that's tight, links fairways, thick, juicy rough or from fairway bunkers.

All irons are Grain Flow Forged in Mizuno's Hiroshima, Japan facility, where the company's engineers have been crafting clubs since 1968.

Grain Flow Forging ensures a precise iron head with a tight, reinforced grain structure made from one single billet of steel via multiple forging stages. Mizuno is the only company that uses this method after patenting it in 1998.

Our equipment tester, Joe Ferguson, said in his full review where he gave the irons 4.9/5 stars: "The Mizuno JPX 925 Forged is an exceptional and arguably unique offering in the iron category. Combining the feel of a beautifully forged one-piece iron, with the speed of a hollow-bodied player's distance iron is a truly remarkable feat, but Mizuno has managed it"

If you like the sound of the JPX 925 and want to give them a try, you have two options - the standard Chrome finish or the stealthed-out Black finish. Take a look at specs below...

Forged Chrome

• Available sets: 5-PW / RH and 5-PW / LH
• Shaft: N.S. Pro Modus Tour 105 & MMT 85
• Grip: Golf Pride MCC Black-Grey
• Price per club: GBP RRP: £200

Forged Black

• Available sets: 5-PW / RH
• Shaft: DG Mid 115 Tour Issue Onyx Black
• Grip: Golf Pride MCC Black-Grey
• Price per club: GBP RRP: £215

Mizuno Pro X Golf Ball

It's not just clubs that Mizuno is a leader in, as the new Pro X has proved to be an exceptional golf ball that is designed to meet the needs of golfers at the highest level thanks to advanced aerodynamics, enhanced speed and exceptional control.

The Pro X impressed Golf Monthly's tester, Joel Tadman, too, who said in his Pro X review that it is one the best golf balls of 2025 and a worthy challenger to the Titleist Pro V1.

Serious players enjoy the speed, control and consistency found in the Pro X as well as the £40 price tag, which offers unmatched value in this end of the market.

It delivers a soft feel combined with mid long-game spin and balanced short-game spin for increased feedback and control without breaking the bank.

The Pro X is a genuine step forward for Mizuno for a number of reasons. A 12% thinner cover and 6% thicker mantle layer help to generate ball speed for maximum distance while not compromising on control.

This is the same construction as the Pro S ball, with both the X and S models designed to produce a higher trajectory for a greater apex height and steeper descent angle when hitting into greens.

The Pro X is made with an Axial Flow Dimple Design which features 332 dimples crafted to reduce drag and enhance stability in flight for supreme performance in all conditions.

So it flies higher, faster and is stable even when it's windy, combined with a soft feel, responsive feedback and exceptional control. What's there not to like?

Mizuno Pro X Price: £40 per dozen

For more, visit the Mizuno website.

If you’re looking to elevate your performance on the golf course this season, opting for a new rangefinder is one of the best and easiest ways to help lower your scores. While laser rangefinders have been around for some time now, the technology and responsiveness of each device continue to improve, and despite the fact this would typically see the price point rise, Blue Tees has recently released the Series 4 Ultra model (£299) - a premium looking and performing product at a fraction of the price of it’s competitors.

Creating a new and exciting look among range finders is hard, but Blue Tee’s does it better than any other manufacturer on the market. The combination of matte and satin black tones and flashes of chrome helps the Series 4 Ultra stand out as one of the best-looking rangefinders, whether it’s in your hand or attached to the side of your cart, thanks to the strong magnetic strip running along the side of the device. This is just one of the practical features implemented in this technology-packed model.

If you’re a hardened golfer and don’t mind stepping onto the tee in inclement weather, the IP54 weather-resistant nature of the Series 4 Ultra means it can handle whatever conditions you’re willing to brave. Even if the lens steams up, you will be well prepared with a handy microfiber cloth in the original box that does an excellent job in removing any moisture or debris and providing a clear view of the pin without any distractions.

Some of the more impressive new features of the Series 4 Ultra include the new OLED display, Auto-Depth filter and 4th Gen slope technology. The new OLED can be viewed through a 6x magnification lens and the Auto-Depth filter helps identify the pin in and amongst any trees or foliage behind the green. We’ve all faced the frustration of air-mailing a green because we’ve lasered a tree rather than the pin, but thanks to the Auto-Depth filter and Flag-Lock with pulse vibration, the Series 4 Ultra is here to ensure you never make that mistake again.

The 4th Gen Slope Technology is ideal for golfers who play regularly on courses with severe elevation changes or for those who are nomadic in their golfing journey, constantly visiting and challenging themselves on new courses. When turned on, the slope percentage and adjusted yardage can be viewed via OLED screen and is controlled via a switch on the side of the device. The slope feature can be toggled on and off to make it legal for tournament play but perfect for any practice rounds or preparation.

With golf equipment prices seemingly ever rising, the Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra rangefinder presents itself as an exceptional value for money. Given the Series 4 Ultra is, in some instances, half of the price of its premium competitors, while arguably more aesthetically pleasing, it’s an absolute no-brainer if you’re in the market for upgrading or purchasing a new rangefinder.

Ready to experience golf footwear like never before? Duca del Cosma, the renowned Italian luxury brand, is back and bolder than ever with its stunning Spring/Summer 2025 collection. Forget everything you thought you knew about golf shoes – this season, Duca del Cosma is rewriting the rules with cutting-edge technology and undeniable Italian style.

Imagine slipping into a golf shoe that feels like walking on air, yet offers unwavering stability and grip. That's the promise of the SS25 collection, featuring two groundbreaking lightweight outsoles: Airplay ROMA and Airplay MILANO. These aren't just shoes; they're meticulously engineered masterpieces, designed in Europe with input from top Tour players. By strategically reducing weight and optimizing balance, Duca del Cosma has created outsoles that are a staggering 15% lighter than previous models. Prepare to feel the difference in every swing!

But the innovation doesn't stop there. Duca del Cosma introduces the exclusive INSITE® ARCHRELIEF® insole, a PU membrane designed for ultimate comfort and support. Found in 32 styles across the men's and women's ranges, this insole provides targeted arch support, easing plantar pressure and reducing ankle pronation. On top of that, it's 50% plant-based, aligning with Duca del Cosma's commitment to sustainability, so it's comfort you can feel good about!

"We've truly raised the bar," says Dolf Stoffberg, CEO of Duca del Cosma. "By fusing timeless craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology, we're delivering the most complete package for golfers this season." It's a sentiment echoed by Tour players who demand footwear that can withstand countless steps and provide all-day freshness.

Let's talk style. The women's collection is a vibrant explosion of color and design. The LATINA golf sneaker is a modern marvel, featuring a waterproof microfiber upper and the Airplay ROMA outsole for exceptional traction. For a classic look with a twist, the TUSCANIA in White/Knockout Pink is a showstopper, and for those who dare to stand out, the CORTONA in all-over Knockout Pink is guaranteed to turn heads. The ALESI, with its chic monogram pattern and patent leather details, exudes Italian elegance, while the entry-level ANDIAMO packs a punch with the latest technology at an accessible price point.

Men, get ready to elevate your game with the FORO, a contemporary masterpiece blending top performance with bold design, or indulge in the luxurious DANDY LEGGERO and DAVINCI LEGGERO, both featuring premium Nappa leather and the Airplay MILANO outsole. The BOSCO offers advanced technology at a competitive price, while the DAVANTI 2, refined with input from DP World Tour winner Joost Luiten, now boasts the INSITE® ARCHRELIEF® insole. The sporty POSITANO ELITE takes things further with the Airplay ROMA outsole and eye-catching color options.

With over 38 new styles for men and women, Duca del Cosma's SS25 collection is more than just footwear; it's a statement. It's a commitment to performance, style, and innovation. It's time to step into the future of golf shoes and experience the unmatched quality and Italian flair of Duca del Cosma. Your best game awaits.

Forget everything you thought you knew about golf shoes. New Balance Golf has just detonated a style and performance bomb with its Spring/Summer 2025 collection. We're talking a full-on revolution for your feet, delivering a lineup that screams "look at me" while whispering sweet nothings of all-day comfort. This isn't just footwear; it's a statement.

Looking for golf shoes that can be worn both on and off the course in equal measure? That's the vibe New Balance is serving up, a potent cocktail of athletic prowess and head-turning design with 15 distinct models and a comprehensive 33 color options, finding your perfect match is less a chore and more like diving into a candy store for your feet. Waterproof? Check. Unbelievably comfortable right out of the box? Double check. These shoes are built to perform, and they're built to make you look good doing it.

Joop Hogenboom, New Balance Golf's Brand Manager, puts it best: “We’re constantly looking at footwear trends both on and off course to help shape our distinctive golf shoe collections.” They've listened to golfers, absorbed feedback, and produced a collection that delivers all the understated style historically associated with New Balance footwear. Think modern sneaker aesthetics fused with New Balance's legendary innovation.

New Balance is not a newcomer to the footwear game; since 1906, they've been crafting top-tier shoes such as the iconic 574 and 997, legendary designs that are part of New Balance's DNA, and that heritage shines through in this golf collection. But this isn't just a nostalgia trip. They've taken those classic silhouettes and turbocharged them with 21st-century tech.

Let's talk tech. Dynasoft® delivers plush cushioning that'll make you feel like you're walking on clouds while Absorb® provides rock-solid support, keeping you stable through every swing. Fresh Foam® is like a bouncy castle for your feet, offering incredible comfort and stability, and REVlite® keeps things feather-light without sacrificing cushioning. This isn't just marketing fluff; these technologies translate to real, tangible benefits on the course.

The 574 Greens V2 is a spikeless powerhouse, offering a luxurious feel and an ultra-responsive ride. Players looking for maximum grip will gravitate towards the 997 Golf, featuring premium spikes for unwavering traction. And then there's the Fresh Foam Contend V2, with its "smart" outsole that's been engineered to optimize your swing. For the ladies, the 327 Golf is a showstopper, blending high fashion with serious golf performance.

But the fun doesn't stop there. The retro-cool Heritage SL, the sneaker-inspired 480 Golf SL, the breathable Fresh Foam ROAV Golf, the budget-friendly Advantage SL V2, and the vibrant BRIGHTON v2 spiked style round out a collection that truly has something for everyone.

This isn't just about buying golf shoes. It's about investing in your game, your comfort, and your style. It's about making a statement every time you step onto the course. So, what are you waiting for? Head down to your nearest New Balance Golf stockist and experience the SS25 collection for yourself. Your feet will thank you. Your scorecard might, too.

This year feels like a particularly relevant one for golf equipment. It will be remembered for the explosion of zero torque putters, perhaps high lofted fairway woods as well as the rise of the golf simulator. Not only are golfers really starting to question the status quo of everything in their golf bag, but companies are adapting their products to better suit the needs of the modern golfer.

As such, we’ve never had such an eclectic mix of products to consider for Editor’s Choice as we have in 2025, which made the task of whittling it all down to just 150 incredibly difficult. Our dedicated equipment team has been hard at work attending shows, meeting with brands and scouring the internet for the products that really move the needle and demonstrate genuine innovation that will make a tangible difference to the golfer. This could be through extra performance, added convenience or simply more enjoyment of the game, all of which combine to create the experience we want on the course.

We hope this supplement provides some insight as to the products that stood out to us and would be worth considering in the first instance should you be looking to upgrade a certain area of your kit and be sure to check out the new dedicated women’s section should you be shopping in this area of the market. Here’s to a stellar 2025!

The Judging Panel

Drivers

Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond Driver

Cobra DS-Adapt X Driver

Ping G440 LST Driver

Srixon ZXi Driver

TaylorMade Qi35 Driver

Tour Edge Exotics C725 Driver

Wilson Dynapwr Carbon Driver

Fairway Woods

Callaway Elyte Fairway Wood

TaylorMade Qi35 Fairway Wood

Titleist GT3 Fairway Wood

Srixon ZXi Fairway Wood

Hybrids/Utilities

Cobra DS-Adapt Hybrid

Ping G440 Hybrid

PXG Black Ops 0311 Hybrid

Titleist GT2 Hybrid

Irons

Ben Hogan Ft Worth MB Irons

Callaway Elyte Irons

Maxfli XC3 Iron

Mizuno JPX925 Forged Irons

Mizuno Pro S3 Irons

Ping G440 Irons

Srixon ZXi5 Irons

Srixon ZXi7 Irons

TaylorMade P7CB Irons

TaylorMade P790 Irons

Wedges

Callaway Opus Wedge

Cleveland RTZ Wedge

Mizuno Pro T-1 Wedge

PXG Sugar Daddy III Wedge

Putters

Evnroll Zero Z5S Putter

Kevin Burns 9307 Putter

L.A.B. Golf Oz.1i Putter

Mizuno M.Craft X #6 Putter

Odyssey Ai-One Square 2 Square Jailbird Cruiser Putter

Ping Scottsdale Anser Putter

Scotty Cameron Studio Style Squareback Putter

Toulon Las Vegas 25 H1 Putter

Golf Balls

Bridgestone e12 Speed Series Golf Balls

Callaway Chrome Tour Golf Balls

Mizuno Pro X Golf Balls

Srixon Z-Star Diamond Golf Balls

TaylorMade Tour Response Golf Balls

Titleist Pro V1 Golf Balls

Wilson Triad Golf Ball

Package Sets

Ping Prodi G Junior Set

PXG Wildcat Package Set

Vice Golf Boost Starter Set

Women's Golf

Abacus Ladies Lanark Windshirt

adidas Codechaos 25 Women's Golf Shoe

Duca del Cosma Latina Golf Shoe

Famara Frill Hem Dress

FootJoy Quantum Women's Golf Shoe

Galvin Green Amy Waterproof Jacket

Ping G Le3 Louise Putter

Pure Golf Clarity Skort

TaylorMade Kalea Gold Irons

XXIO Prime Royal Edition Driver

Gloves

Lyle & Scott Tour Pro Glove

Bionic Relaxgrip 2.0 DX Glove

Shoes

Adidas Adizero ZG Shoe

Duca Del Cosma Grado Shoe

Ecco Biom H5 Shoe

FootJoy HyperFlex Shoe

FootJoy Premiere Series Packard LX Shoe

G/FORE MG4+ O2 G/Lock Shoe

New Balance 480 SL Shoe

Nike Victory Tour 4 Shoes

Payntr Eighty Seven SC Shoe

Pluto Golf P1 Shoe

Puma Royale Shoe

Skechers Go Golf Prestige Shoe

Sun Day Red Cypress Pioneer Shoe

TravisMathew Daily Pro Hybrid Plus Shoe

True Linkswear Lux 2 Player Shoe

Under Armour Phantom Fore Shoe

GPS/Rangefinder

Blue Tees S4 Ultra Rangefinder

Bushnell Pro X3+ LINK Rangefinder

Bushnell Tour Hybrid Rangefinder

Canon PowerShot Rangefinder

CaddyTalk Windy Rangefinder

FlightScope i4 Rangefinder

Garmin Approach S50 Watch

Garmin G20 Solar GPS

GolfBuddy Laser 2S Pro Rangefinder

Nikon Coolshot 50i GII Rangefinder

Precision Pro Titan Elite Rangefinder

Shot Scope G6 Watch

Shot Scope Pro X Rangefinder

Voice Caddie T11 Pro GPS Watch

Game Tracking

Arccos Gen4 Smart Sensors

Garmin Approach CT1

SkyGolf Game Trax 360

Trolleys

Alphard Cybercart Remote Electric Cart

Bag Boy Slimfold Push Cart

MGI Navigator AI GPS Electric Trolley

Motocaddy M7 GPS Remote Electric Trolley

Motocaddy S1 Electric Trolley

PowaKaddy CT12 GPS Electric Trolley

PowaKaddy RX12 Remote Electric Trolley

Stewart Golf Q Follow Electric Trolley

Stewart Golf V10 Remote Electric Trolley

Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 Push Cart

Bags

Ben Hogan Signature stand bag

Big Max Dri Lite Hybrid Prime stand bag

Enpi Travel Caddy

Lyle & Scott Gleneagle stand bag

Motocaddy 2025 Protekta cart bag

Ogio Funday stand bag

Ogio Renegade travel cover

Ping Moonlander stand bag

PowaKaddy Dri Tech cart bag

Sun Mountain Club Glider travel cover

Sun Mountain H2NO Lite VLO stand bag

Titleist Players 4 Carbon stand bag

Vessel Player V stand bag

Training Aids

Bal.On Smart Kit

DeWiz Swing Analyser

Eyeline Speed Trap 2.0

GFORCE Driver Swing Trainer

Hackmotion Pro Swing Analyser

Me And My Golf Breaking Balls Putting Mat

PuttOut Air Break Putting Mat

Sure Golf The Connector Training Aid

Apparel

Adidas Originals Convertible Hooded Jacket

FootJoy Tempo Series Hooded Jacket

Galvin Green Ames Jacket

G/FORE Camo Tech Hooded Pullover

Johnnie-O Zuker Mixed Media Jacket

Malbon Club Malbon pullover

Manors Golf Insulated Course Gilet

Peter Millar Retro Performance Jersey Polo

Ping Legacy polo

Reflo Tagus Icon Print Polo

Stuburt Bullfinch Polo Shirt

Under Armour Drive Tapered Pant

Accessories

Golf Pride Align Max Grips

PRG Ryder Cup Headcovers

SoftSpikes Tour Flex Pro Cleats

Shafts

Fujikura Ventus Velocore+ Hybrid Shaft

LA Golf Gold Series Shaft

Launch Monitors

FlightScope XC3 Launch Monitor

Foresight Sports GC3S Launch Monitor

Garmin Approach R50

Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor

Square Golf Launch Monitor

Uneekor Eye Mini Lite Launch Monitor

Simulators

Foresight Sports Sim-in-a-box

GolfZon Wave Simulator

SimSpace Deluxe Practice Net

The casual golf fan might look into a tour pro's bag and be bewildered by the sheer number of ‘specialist’ wedges staring back at them. Where the average golfer might carry two or three, touring professionals often pack four, five, or even more of the best wedges, especially during their practice rounds. At the 2025 PGA Championship, Patrick Cantlay was spotted with a staggering seven different specialist wedges during his Wednesday practice round, prompting much discussion. This begs the question: why such a vast arsenal?

The answer, in my opinion, lies in the requirements for precision and adaptability at the highest level of the game on some of the most demanding golf course setups in the world. Tour professionals face a constantly changing landscape of conditions in terms of ground firmness, grass types, and even cut lengths, and their wedge selection is a crucial tool in navigating these variables successfully.

One of the primary reasons for carrying multiple wedges is the massive difference in performance characteristics of the vast array of bounce and grind options. Many of you will know that bounce refers to the angle between the leading edge of the club and the ground when the sole is resting on the turf, and a higher bounce angle is generally beneficial in softer conditions, and on ‘grabbier’ grasses such as Bermuda. Lower bounce wedges, conversely, tend to excel on firmer, tighter surfaces, which is why so many players switch into a lower bounce wedge when heading to the Open Championship, which is primarily played on firm links turf.

Grind adds another layer of complexity and refers to the shaping and contouring of the sole of a wedge. Different grinds offer varying levels of versatility and can really personalise a wedge to a player that prefers to either manipulate the face significantly, like Tiger Woods, or players such as Steve Stricker and Jason Day who prefer to play with a squarer blade. Touring professionals meticulously select wedges with specific bounce and grind combinations to match the course and conditions they expect to encounter. Cantlay's seven-wedge practice round setup at the PGA Championship likely reflects a desire to have every conceivable option at his disposal, given the expected variations in the course, even potentially chopping and changing during the course of the week.

Beyond bounce and grind, professionals also carry a variety of wedge lofts to dial in their yardages and manage gaps in their bag. This is where the second key reason comes in, because the number of wedges a player carries can significantly impact the rest of their bag setup and vice versa. A course that demands a lot of tee shots with fairway woods, or long approaches to par 5s, for instance, might lead a player to carry fewer wedges to make room for a 5 or 7-wood, for example. Similarly, a course with tight greens and intricate short-game situations might see a player load up on wedges for maximum precision.

Interestingly, there is very little consensus amongst even the world's best players on the topic. Players such as Scottie Scheffler and Tiger Woods tend to stick unwaveringly to the same wedge setup year after year, and course after course, valuing the familiarity they build up with their setup over the versatility of employing different bounces, lofts, and grinds. Many other professionals (Cantlay clearly!) rely on having multiple options at their disposal to do a little more for them, rather than having to manipulate their technique. I recently played with 2025 Singapore Classic Champion Richard Mansell in a social game, and even in that environment, Richard had three different Vokey SM10 lob wedges that he was switching between during the round, which I found fascinating.

The main takeaway here is that there's no "right" approach. For some, consistency and a deep understanding of their go-to wedges are paramount. For others, the ability to adapt to any situation with a specialized tool is the ultimate advantage. It will be interesting to see what Cantlay’s setup looks like come game time on Thursday…

As an equipment writer, when I am watching golf on television, I can’t help but have one eye on the players' golf bags to see what they are plying their trade with, and while watching the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, something in the winner's bag caught my eye. Russell Henley was using Titleist T100 irons, which in itself may not be extraordinary, but as I looked a little closer, I could see that they were in fact the 2019 version of this popular model from Titleist.

With manufacturers continually pushing the virtues of their innovation and newer models, I was intrigued as to why Henley, a Titleist staff player, would be using a model at least a couple of generations old. So, I got in touch with my friends at GolfClubs4Cash to see if I could get hold of the models in question to put them through their paces. I scrolled the GolfClubs4Cash app and sure enough, I swiftly found the irons I needed, ordered them up, and was surprised to see just how low the price tag was considering they are still being used at the highest level of the game. The irons, which I have to say were in exceptional condition, were just £419.99.

As soon as they arrived at my door, I headed off to the practice ground armed with a Foresight Sports GC Quad launch monitor and a bag full of balls to see what I could find out, and truth be told, I was very surprised. I took along the subsequent two models (21’ and 23’) of T100 irons to my session for comparative purposes, and the quantifiable data between the two newer models in terms of carry distance, peak height, and spin rates was, to all intents and purposes, the same.

There was less than two yards of carry variation, all were within 1.5mph of ball speed, and 2 yards of peak height! However, when I got the 2019 version in my hands, the ball flight window immediately changed. It was coming out significantly lower yet spinning up quite significantly after that. For context, it was launching between a degree and a degree and a half lower but with over 500 rpm more spin. The additional spin culminated in a peak height of around 10 feet higher and a steeper descent angle, and herein may lie the reason Henley is opting not to switch…

PGA Tour courses - particularly Bay Hill, where his recent win came - are often set up with exceptionally firm greens and some very tight pin positions, so the additional spin and descent angle on offer from the 2019 version could prove a significant advantage. But where does this different window come from, from a technical standpoint? Well, for me, the answer lies in the bounce angle. The 2019 model has visibly more bounce and an increased radius on the sole, and when bounce is increased, the leading edge will rise a little relative to the ground. In turn, this tends to promote a lower strike on the clubface, facilitating a higher spin profile due to impacting significantly below the CG.

Could Russell Henley find a couple more yards or an mph of ball speed or two more from a newer model of irons? Yes, I would suggest he probably could, but would those small incremental gains in power translate into lower scores on the golf course? Well, he clearly doesn’t think so, and I am inclined to agree. Aside from the benefits of the higher spin profile, in my opinion, the time it would take to build up similar levels of situational familiarity with a newer product for Henley would completely negate any data gains on offer, and he is not alone at the top of the game in that regard.

World number one Scottie Scheffler has been in the same P7TW irons for the best part of four years, and recent Grand Slam winner Rory McIlroy has been playing his “Rors Proto” irons for even longer still, and the list goes on. In fact, the more time I get to spend with these top players talking about their golf equipment, I get the feeling that the vast majority would barely change at all without occasional contractual obligations or when they have simply worn through the grooves! Unless a significant, tangible performance gain is on offer, the risk is simply too high at the top level, and I think we can benefit from that at the consumer level.

The primary purpose of this exercise was to identify any performance differences between the models I was testing, which, it would be fair to say, were definitely evident, and for the right player could be potentially very beneficial. With this in mind, I firmly believe there is some smart money to be spent in the second-hand market if you are looking to change things up with your irons.

As I mentioned, the 4-PW set of 2019 Titleist T100s I picked up set me back just over £400, when at today's prices you could be looking at adding the best part of £1000 to your outlay for some of the best irons in the game, so there are clearly massive savings on offer for comparably performing equipment. You must consider, however, that these clubs are in no way custom-fit for your game, which can be a drawback when shopping in this market; however, in many instances, for a small fee, irons can be somewhat “retro-fit” through adjustments such as loft and lie changes and re-gripping, all of which GolfClubs4Cash offers.

If you're looking for a golf laser rangefinder in 2025, look no further than Nikon's new COOLSHOT PRO III Stabilized and COOLSHOT 50i GII.

Both models come packed with a number of impressive technologies to help you play your best golf with features designed to make your round easier.

The COOLSHOT PRO III Stabilized, which is the official rangefinder of the LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour, has some innovative technologies that ensure speed and accuracy among other helpful inclusions.

The COOLSHOT 50i GII has plenty of great features, too, including a built-in powerful mounting magnet to make it the perfect laser for cart-riding golfers.

Both deliver accurate yardages to the pin along with slope-adjusted numbers and ergonomic, weatherproof designs.

So, which of these two Nikon rangefinders should you choose? Take a look at each...

COOLSHOT PRO III STABILIZED

The cutting-edge COOLSHOT PRO III STABILIZED is Nikon's fastest, most accurate golf laser rangefinder yet, and it's also the laser used by the pros - as it is the official rangefinder of the LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour (LET).

This premium device, made for serious golfers, features some impressive innovations including Nikon's new HYPER READ technology, which provides accurate yardages in just 0.1 seconds regardless of distance! This handy feature can shave minutes off your round as well as strokes off of your score.

As well as being super quick, the PRO III STABILIZED is also incredibly stable - hence the name. It is built with Nikon's unique and powerful stabilization system, which counters both hand shake and wind to steady your view and ensure you can lock on to your target easier.

The helpful DUAL LOCKED ON QUAKE technology gives a visual cue plus a gentle vibration to confirm when it’s accurately measured the distance to the flagstick as opposed to trees or other objects behind your target.

It comes with four measurements to help you gain a true understanding of what shot you're facing, with ID (incline/decline) technology giving both slope-adjusted distance and actual distance. Press the mode button to switch to Actual Distance Mode, Actual Distance and Height Mode, or Horizontal Distance and Height Mode.

Slope compensation must be off for competitive play and the Actual Distance Indicator (ADI) LED blinks green to signal compliance so both you and your competitors know that you're playing by the rules. A handy feature to help you avoid getting caught out by mistake.

A crisp OLED display features bright red numbers and letters that are easy to read, plus the brightness adjusts automatically to account for ambient light levels. The multilayered 6x monocular lens offers a crystal-clear view, and the adjustable dioptre ensures tack-sharp focus.

Another handy feature allows you to hold the power button for up to 8 seconds to gauge the distance of trees, penalty areas, bunkers and anything else all in one simple movement.

The high quality build also ensures the PRO III STABILIZED is waterproof and fog-proof to withstand whatever conditions you're playing in.

The device weighs just 205g and the grooved rubber grip allows for a steady hold. Long eye relief also means you won’t need to remove your glasses or sunglasses while using it.

Learn more

COOLSHOT 50i GII

The COOLSHOT 50i GII is the perfect laser for recreational golfers thanks to plenty of handy features designed to help you play better golf.

This compact rangefinder incorporates a number of the same technologies as the premium COOLSHOT PRO III STABILIZED, including slope-adjusted distances from Nikon's ID technology, the DUAL LOCKED ON QUAKE technology to give feedback once you've picked up your target as well as the one-sweep 8-second press and hold feature for when you're looking to pick up multiple distances in one go.

It also comes with the Actual Distance Indicator (ADI) LED that blinks green to signal compliance when playing in competitions that don't allow the use of Slope-adjusted yardages.

A standout feature on the COOLSHOT 50i GII is the powerful mounting magnet built into the side of the device. It allows you to safely attach it to metal surfaces like the frame of your golf cart for ease of use.

The device also comes with an OLED display with bright red numbers and letters for easy reading, while brightness can be adjusted.

A powerful multilayer-coated 6x monocular lens is fitted for a crystal-clear view, and the adjustable dioptre means you can fine-tune the focus to suit your vision.

It's also rainproof to ensure bad weather won't leave you without yardages, and the long eye relief means you don't have to take off your glasses or sunglasses while using the device.

A grooved rubber grip makes for a nice and comfortable hold.

Learn more

When Rory McIlroy set off for a run-of-the-mill practice session earlier this year at Michael Jordan’s course, Grove XXII, little did he know he was about to stumble upon an equipment change that could turn out to be an important part of the formula he needed to finally win at Augusta National and join the true greats of the game.

McIlroy - who had been gaming the TaylorMade TP5x golf ball - began clipping a few shots around the chipping green and immediately liked what he was seeing.

“I was messing around at the Grove XXIII last Thursday, and I just started to hit some chips with the TP5 instead of the TP5x. I really loved how it felt, and I hadn’t really tested the 2024 TP5." McIlroy said earlier this year. "I loved how it was reacting around the greens and then I started hitting some 60- and 70-yard shots with it and it was coming off much lower launch, but spinnier.”

With a little more testing, Rory put the 2024 TP5 ball in play at Pebble Beach and cruised to a very impressive victory in some typically blustery conditions.

“The first time I worked on it a lot was at Pebble Beach, and we had to contend with some really windy conditions there at the weekend and played well in that. When the conditions come like that, I just feel like I'm a lot better prepared to handle them. It's flighting the sort of wedges and short irons, which have been the issue, and I feel like I've been able to rectify that.”

Since that excellent performance at Pebble, Rory has also clipped off his second Players Championship at Sawgrass and sits one round away from securing his first green jacket and with it a place in the history books as only the sixth player ever to have won The Masters, The Open Championship, The US Open, and the USPGA Championship.

In my own testing last year, I found clear evidence of what Rory loves about the TP5 ball compared to the TP5x. Throughout all of my irons, I saw lower launch angles and enhanced spin from TP5, and while I noted a slight loss in carry distances, this is unlikely to affect or bother someone of Rory’s immense power.

In addition to, and directly because of the ball change Rory has bent his 60° TaylorMade MG4 wedge slightly weaker to 61° this week. According to TaylorMade VP of Tour Operations Keith Sbarbaro, the 61° wedge doesn’t catch in the grain (because when adding loft we also add bounce) and has low enough bounce to perform well on tight grass like in Augusta. Sbarbaro also said the 61° wedge also makes hitting the 40-70 yard shots much easier with lower launch and spin, so look out for that later if he is forced to lay up on holes like the 2nd, 13th, and 15th.

This ‘stumbled upon’ change has been working rather well for Rory so far, but could it be the difference maker in his quest for the Grand Slam? I for one unapologetically hope so!

With just a few holes left to play on Friday, it looked like 65-year-old Fred Couples and 67-year-old Bernhard Langer were going to defy the odds and make it through to Masters weekend. While a couple of late stumbles saw both of them miss out by the narrowest of margins, it did not diminish the magnitude of what both these great champions achieved on Thursday and Friday at Augusta National. With Langer averaging little over 250 yards off the tee against a field average of 295 yards, to miss out by just a single stroke was nothing short of remarkable, and Couples was just a shot further back - ahead of the likes of Adam Scott and Brooks Koepka.

As an equipment writer, I am always fascinated to delve into the bags of these great players to see what the rest of us can learn, and Fred Couples may be offering us all a valuable lesson. If you include his putter, currently you will see seven headcovers in the bag of the man dubbed “Boom Boom” in his heyday, SEVEN! Freddie is currently using a Driver, 3 wood, and 5 wood, followed by a 4, 5, and 6 hybrid, with his longest iron being a 7. With so many players out there still holding onto the belief that ‘real players’ use long irons, I would urge you to go and watch back Couples’ 36 holes at Augusta this week and tell me that isn’t a ‘real player’.

What Couples has done here is brilliantly set aside his ego and simply worked out the best equipment setup to help him shoot the lowest score possible. Freddie has had some pretty consistent and well-documented back issues over the years and had simply found himself in a position where he just “couldn’t hit” his mid-long irons anymore. So, instead of belligerently carrying on, Couples swallowed his pride and turned to the world of high-lofted hybrids as iron replacements, and the results have been fantastic. So fantastic in fact that he even holed out from 191 yards with his 28-degree 6-hybrid on the 14th hole on Thursday for an eagle en route to a fantastic first round of 71.

While not quite as deep into the hybrid game as Couples, Bernhard Langer still had both 18 and 22-degree Adams Idea Pro hybrids in the bag this week, relying heavily on them for his second shots into many of Augusta’s long par four holes.

Of course, these things are player-dependent, but I would urge many of you out there to give this strategy at least some consideration. As a PGA Professional who still plays in a number of Pro-Am tournaments each year, I would conservatively guess that 50% of my amateur partners have too many irons in their bag and would significantly benefit from dropping at least one of those in favor of a lofted hybrid. The benefits are vast. Ball speed increases, peak height, steeper descent angles and simply ease of use, these clubs can seriously enhance not only your score but also your pure enjoyment of the game.

Freddie had been using the TaylorMade Qi10 hybrids, which performed very strongly in our testing, but it looks like the hybrids that made the bag for Augusta were Ping G430 models which we were equally impressed with. The hybrid sector is flooded with excellent products, however, and there are plenty of other options out there to help you find one of the best hybrids on the market. Furthermore, if you are even more committed to the concept of hybrids replacing irons, then you could even go down the route of full hybrid sets such as the Eleven Golf hybrid iron set or even the Cleveland Halo XL Full Face hybrid irons, which offer the benefits of hybrid-style performance all the way down to the wedges (something I have even forced upon my own parents!).

We all know how tough this game can be, so if you can make it just that little bit easier, it can only be a good thing, right? And if you don’t believe me, ask Freddie!

The 2019 Masters will remain for me - and so many others - one of the most emotional golf tournaments I have ever watched. Tiger Woods was such a formative figure in my childhood and adolescence, to the point where I sincerely doubt if golf would have captured my interest enough without his presence to stick at it, and I would have probably drifted away down some other career path. So I guess, thanks, Tiger!

However, after years of injury and controversy in his personal life, by 2018, it really felt like he was done. Then in late 2018, there were signs of life. An impressive victory at the Tour Championship that year had us all wondering if he had something left in the tank in the majors, then the 2019 Masters rolled around, and we all know what happened next!

As it is that wonderful time of year again when the eyes of the golfing world descend upon Augusta National Golf Club, I decided to partner up with GolfClubs4Cash and take a deeper look at what was in the great man's bag that week. With everything conveniently in stock, I ordered it all up through the app, and took it out for one of the most enjoyable practice sessions I have had in years! Here’s what he used that fateful week…

Driver - TaylorMade M5

By this era, Tiger was very much a TaylorMade athlete as the rest of his bag will also demonstrate, and he was using the M5 driver in 9 degrees. This driver featured one of the most adjustable CG weighting systems of all time with a huge “H” track along the sole allowing players to dial in a multitude of flight preferences.

Tiger shifted his two weights into the rear section of the track to maximize MOI, and then split them slightly, with one slightly towards the toe and the other all the way to the heel to potentially allow more of a draw shape that we know is preferable on so many holes at the Masters including the 2nd, 10th and 13th.

Tiger played this driver with the Mitsubishi Diamana D+ White 60 TX shaft, which is one of the most tip-stable models I have ever tried.

3 Wood - TaylorMade M5

Tiger played Augusta that week like a grand master playing chess, and hitting less than driver off many tees to prioritize angles and positions were central to his strategy, and as such he needed a 3-wood he could rely on. He once again selected one of the best fairway woods in the M5 from TaylorMade which featured a massive 65g weight shifter in the middle of the sole!

This is the largest moveable weight in a golf club that I can think of and any move away from neutral had a huge effect on ball flight bias, so it is no surprise that Tiger opted to keep this in the neutral setting. He did however loft it down from its stated 15 degrees to play at 13 degrees which on TaylorMade loft sleeves has the knock-on effect of making the lie angle more upright and also opening the face angle. Once again he opted to use this in the Mitsubishi Diamana D+ shaft, this time in 70 TX flex.

5 wood - TaylorMade M3

Tiger clearly loved this particular model as it is still in his bag to this day, some 6 years later! The TaylorMade M3 5 wood came in at 19 degrees and Tiger opted to play it on the upright side of the TaylorMade loft sleeve, presumably to encourage a slightly more draw bias ball flight. As with the driver and 3 wood, he opted to use this in the Mitsubishi Diamana D+ shaft, going up to 80 grams in this TX flex.

Irons - TaylorMade P7TW

Woods used the stunningly beautiful TaylorMade P7TW irons in his 2019 Masters victory. These irons were built with meticulous attention to detail, even down to matching the CG of his old sets. He has always preferred irons with a longer blade length, very thin sole, and squared-off toe, which is what TaylorMade managed to achieve in the P7TW design.

The P7TW irons were a game changer for Tiger as the soles are CNC milled, eliminating the previous inconsistency of hand grinding for a player who was incredibly particular about sole width and radius. The P7TW has a flatter sole radius and a little more bounce than typical designs which really helps ground interaction. The grooves on the irons are a touch narrower than normal, but there are actually more grooves present than in many other retail models.

The irons received final approval from Tiger after tungsten dots were added directly behind the impact area which dialed in the exact feel of what he was looking for. Woods has generally used the same iron specs since he was in College, only ever changing the lie angle to match swing changes he was making at any given time.

As he always has done, these irons were fitted with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts, and interestingly, Tiger employed (and still does) a very old vibration-dampening technique of having wooden dowels slotted and glued into place at the tip end of the shaft!

Wedges - TaylorMade Milled Grind

Tiger used TaylorMade wedges in 2019, opting for the Milled Grind raw options in 56 and 60 degrees. Now the interesting thing about his wedges is that he has such a big loft gap between his 56-degree sand wedge and his 49-degree pitching wedge. Almost all other players on the PGA Tour would fill that gap with some sort of gap wedge, but Tiger has said he feels very comfortable hooding the face of the 56-degree wedge to squeeze a few more yards when necessary.

The soles are also very interesting and were for many years unique to him until TaylorMade was able to replicate this for the masses with CNC milling. On his 56-degree, he has some of the heaviest heel relief I have ever seen on a wedge, which he says is very much due to the fact that he loves to manipulate the face of his 56-degree and plays the majority of his short game shots with it, seeing the 60-degree as more of an emergency option.

The 60-degree wedge also had a very interesting sole design, with little to no bounce across the main portion of the sole, before the front couple of millimeters sharpy ascended to lift the leading edge quite a long way off the ground. So while the main portion of the sole may be somewhere around 2 degrees of bounce, the leading edge portion is probably closer to 25!

Putter - Scotty Cameron GSS Newport 2

Perhaps one of the most famous pieces of sports equipment of all time is the ‘Elder Wand’, or more specifically Tiger’s Scotty Cameron GSS Newport 2 which has won 14 of his 15 majors! The design - like so many others - is derived from the original Ping Anser (Woods even used an Anser 2 for a period), however, he ultimately settled on the Newport 2 GSS, and in hindsight, it seems like that was a smart decision! Notably, the putter head is relatively light compared to modern standards, weighing 326 grams. For context, many modern putters fall in the 340-350 gram range although Woods has been known to add lead tape to his putter head at times, adjusting the weight based on his current stroke and feel.

An interesting detail is the iconic "cherry bombs" on the putter. These were essentially a happy accident. In 1999, Scotty Cameron had a prototype (non-GSS version) ready to ship to Tiger, but it was 2-3 grams too heavy. As such, he quickly drilled two small holes - one in the cavity, and the other in the heel, filled with red paint - resulting in those now-famous markings.

Woods used a Ping Man PP58 grip, which is a very thin, pistol-style grip. Whereas so many of today's grips are much thicker in attempts to reduce the influence of the hands, Woods preferred to encourage feel and movement in the hands with his thinner grip.

The putter also does not have a sight line, featuring only a red dot for alignment. Specs-wise, it was 35.25 inches in length, 3.5 degrees of loft, and a D7 swing weight.

If you're looking to upgrade your laser rangefinder or wanting to take your game to the next level, Precision Pro's extensive range is what you're looking for.

Precision Pro has been making high quality golf laser rangefinders for years, and the brand's current line up is among the best on the market.

The company's devices have some impressive features and innovative design elements - from Find My Rangefinder to its premium, aliminum casing - and it also offers golf's only free battery replacement program.

All of its lasers also come with a 3-year warranty and a 90-day money back guarantee, while customers can also benefit from hassle free support from Precision Pro's team.

Precision Pro aims to create the ultimate combination of performance and value for money and its products are trusted by the likes of Good Good, No Laying Up and John Daly, who are all ambassadors of the brand.

Take a tour of Precision Pro's rangefinder models to see which one is best for your game and budget...

Titan Elite Rangefinder

The Elite is Precision Pro's ultimate rangefinder that is made for the die-hard golfer who plays week-in, week-out and wants the best that money can buy to help them shoot lower scores.

If you want the best of the best, the Elite is made for you.

It combines accurate laser distances along with app-connected GPS yardages to the front, center and back of the green - all in one single ClearView display that is clutter-free.

You'll get immediate, accurate distances thanks to InstantLock + Pulse Vibration, which quickly and easily picks up the flag. Distances also come slope-adjusted for when you're playing up-or-downhill to get a true reading of what number you need to hit.

It's made to last and withstand any drops thanks to its premium aluminum shell that not only looks classy but helps to keep your device safe. It has an IP67 waterproof rating, too, to protect it from rain, moisture, dust and debris.

The Elite also comes with a SecureGrip Magnetic Mount that sticks firmly to your cart to ensure you don't have to keep getting it in-and-out of your bag.

And we've all had that moment where we've panicked and realized that we've left our rangefinder somewhere...well fear not, as the Elite comes with a very useful Find My Rangefinder feature that gives instant phone alerts and last location tracking details to ensure you'll be reunited.

Price: $399.99

Titan Slope Rangefinder

The Titan Slope features many of the same features as the Elite including the unbreakable design with the aluminum shell and IP67 waterproof rating.

It also comes with slope-adjusted yardages, the same InstantLock + Pulse Vibration technologies and the clean, clutter-free ClearView Display to only see the information that you really need.

You can also stick it straight to the cart thanks to the magnetic mount.

While you don't get the added bonus of GPS yardages or the Find My Rangefinder feature, the Titan Slope is still one of the leading models on the market, especially at this price point.

Price: $299.99

NX10 Slope Rangefinder

Precision Pro's NX10 is where a performance laser meets style, as it is the only rangefinder that lets you switch styles on demand with over 20 bold designs to match your game and show off your personality.

Its casing is made from premium ABS plastic with advanced ergonomics for a lovely, soft feel that is durable and high quality.

Like the Elite and Titan, it comes with slope functionality, InstantLock and Pulse Vibration technologies, ClearView Display and a magnetic cart grip.

Price: $249.99

NX9 Slope Rangefinder

The NX9 is the perfect entry-level rangefinder for golfers who are seeking a quality device that delivers accurate yardages along with some very handy features.

The NX9 comes in below $200 and, like the Elite, Titan and NX10, includes slope-adjusted distances, InstantLock and Pulse Vibration technologies, ClearView Display and a magnetic cart grip.

It comes in a clean, modern design that is user-friendly and superb value for money.

Price: $199.99

For more information, head to the Precision Pro website.

Maverick McNealy is a name that has sprung out of the ashes in the last six months. He is currently the world number 15, having been ranked way down at 129th in the world. The former World Amateur No.1 in 2015, 2016 and early 2017 had an incredible finish to the 2024 season, winning his first PGA Tour event at the RSM Classic by one shot. He has carried that form into 2025, with his best result coming at the Genesis Invitational, where he finished 2nd - one shot behind winner Ludvig Aberg. The 29-year-old is looking to continue is red hot form and here we will look at what is in his bag...

Driver

WHAT DRIVER DOES MAVERICK MCNEALY USE?

McNealy currently uses the TaylorMade Qi10 “Dot” driver (10.5°) with a Graphite Design Tour AD XC 6 TX shaft. Used by the best in the business such as world number one Scottie Scheffler and previously used by one of the best drivers on the PGA tour, Rory McIlroy, this is one of the best golf drivers out there.

With the Qi10, TaylorMade aimed to maximize the MOI without compromising ball speed. This has been achieved with a re-engineered 60X Carbon Twist Face and a new supporting structure to promote faster ball speeds and improve the durability of the face. The Qi10 Dot is a tour only driver option that is lower spinning and more right-biased than the core Qi10 driver, but retains the higher MOl compared to the Qi10 LS driver.

Fairway Woods

WHAT FAIRWAY WOODS DOES MAVERICK MCNEALY USE?

When it comes to fairway woods, McNealy has stuck with TaylorMade but instead opted with a slightly older spec of club. He currently uses a TaylorMade Stealth 2 three-wood (16.5°) with a Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft and TaylorMade Stealth 2 seven-wood (21 degrees) with a Fujikura Ventus Red 8 X shaft.

Originally launched in 2023, McNealy has remained with these woods instead of upgrading to the more advanced Qi10 or Qi35 fairway wood family. With the Qi35 being one of the most forgiving fairway woods may tempt McNealy to switch but for now he seems content with what he has.

Irons

WHAT IRONS DOES MAVERICK MACNEALY USE?

Although he does not have a club endorsement with TaylorMade, he has chosen the company once again with his irons using the TaylorMade P7CB irons in 4-9-iron with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts and Golf Pride MCC grips. Designed to be one of the best low-handicap irons, TaylorMade introduced this range in 2024 and it has proven popular among tour players and at amateur level.

Designed for players who demand the purest feel, shot-making capability and consistency, this is one of the best irons out there. The looks are what really make them stand out with a sophisticated brushed satin finish and performance wise, does exactly what it says on the tin, emphasizing why McNealy has opted for these high-class irons.

Wedges

WHAT WEDGES DOES MAVERICK MCNEALY USE?

Interestingly, McNealy has decided for a blend of brands when it comes to his wedges and neither are TaylorMade. Within his full set he has two Titleist Vokey Design SM10 wedges (46-10F, 50-08F) and two Cleveland RTZ wedges (54° and 60°) with Golf Pride MCC grips. All of his wedges are equipped with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts.

This makes a change from his set when he won at the RSM Classic. There he had the same 46-10F and 50-08F Vokey Design SM10 wedges, but he also had the 54-08M within the same collection. He also had a Vokey Design Wedgeworks (58-L) which was bent to 59° but the recently-launched Cleveland RTZ wedge has got the nod for now.

Putter

WHAT PUTTER DOES MAVERICK MCNEALY USE?

The Odyssey Toulon Design Prototype is the putter Maverick has in the bag. He is known as being one of the best putters on the PGA Tour; in the 2022-2023 season, he ranked first for Strokes Gained Putting. Some of the best odyssey putters are used by leading PGA Tour players and the American is placing his faith in one here, highlighted by the results he gets from it (including his RSM Classic win).

Ball

WHAT BALL DOES MAVERICK MCNEALY USE?

McNealy has interestingly chosen the 2025 Titleist Pro V1x ball for this season, completing a bag mixed with some of golf's biggest brands. The Pro V1x is widely regarded as one of the best premium golf balls on the market and is used be a huge variety of other professionals such as Ludvig Aberg and Russell Henley, who have both won on the PGA Tour already in 2025.

Apparel & Footwear

WHAT SHOES DOES MAVERICK MCNEALY WEAR?

In 2017 McNealy signed an endorsement agreement with Under Armour and has since been wearing its apparel and footwear. In the build up to the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass, McNealy has been wearing the new Under Armour Drive Pro Wide shoes in white with shades of blue around the outside of the sole. This is a shoe he has been using for a lot of this season and has said on his Instagram profile that “the swing support system they engineered gives me all the stability I need to rotate hard into my left side. They somehow just keep getting better.”

Full specs

MAVERICK MCNEALY WITB: FULL SPECS

Driver: TaylorMade Qi10 “Dot” (10.5 degrees) with a Graphite Design Tour AD XC 6 TX shaft.
Three-wood: TaylorMade Stealth 2 (16.5 degrees) with a Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft
Seven-wood: TaylorMade Stealth 2 (21 degrees) with a Fujikura Ventus Red 8 X shaft
Irons: TaylorMade P7CB (4-9) with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts
Wedges: Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (46-10F, 50-08F), Cleveland RTZ (54, 60) all with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts
Putter: Odyssey Toulon Design Prototype
Ball: 2025 Titleist Pro V1x
Apparel: Under Armour
Shoes: Under Armour UA Drive Pro Wide
Grips: Golf Pride MCC

Golf launch monitors changed forever in 2025 with the launch of the Garmin Approach R50 as it combines a launch monitor and golf simulator all in one device. But what are the other features golfers may not know about that take the experience to the next level?

There’s no question that the 10-inch full colour touchscreen steals the show on the Approach R50. It’s from here users input their desired initial settings, which takes barely a few minutes, and access the three modes of Practice, Play or Connect.

The Practice Mode invites you to choose one of four driving ranges - some have more visual elements and targets than others. For many, the basic grass range is going to where you want to go to work on your swing. The Approach R50 use three cameras to provide 15 club and ball data points. To access the club data you need to remember to apply a sticker to the top of the clubface - it’s simple to do and there are 250 stickers included in the case so you’ll almost certainly never run out!

You have so many options with how you view your shot data. You can have all the numbers on the display at once, you can opt for seeing some of the key metrics alongside your ball flight or even a graphical representation of how the club and ball interact at impact. Connect the Approach R50 directly to a projector (no gaming laptop needed) and you can have a combination of two across the display and the hitting screen. But a fourth option is to see a high speed impact playback video of the moment of truth when the club strikes the ball. This is a really useful option to have if you’re making a swing change and want to see if your ball striking is improving, or if you want to see where you’re striking your wedges on the face.

As well as being completely customisable, you can also add notes to particular shots. So if a certain swing thought triggered improved numbers or quality of strike, you can add that in to refer to next time should you experience a slump in form. Working on your game has never been more fun than with the Approach R50. Yes the data is accurate and the ball flights realistic, appearing on the screen with almost no delay, but the immersive experience it provides really encourages you to hit balls, learn about your technique and make subtle adjustments based on the numbers you’re seeing. It’s almost addictive.

Taking it to the course

But once you’ve honed your swing, you’re going to want to see how it holds up on the course, and the Home Tee Hero golf simulator mode is the perfect testing ground. A small subscription fee unlocks over 43,000 golf courses with enhanced graphics for 2025 that really make you feel like you’re teeing it up on some of the world’s best courses.

But there is a practical benefit of having the simulator functionality built into the Approach R50, having such an extensive course list and the device being easily portable. Before an important round at your home course, you’re able to take your R50 to the driving range or even the practice net (the Approach R50 is camera based, so it doesn’t need to track your ball through the air) and play the first few holes. This makes your pre-round preparation so much more effective - you can hit shots with the clubs you’re about to use, see how the shots fly and make any necessary adjustments. The mulligan feature means you can have another go at certain shots on the course that have you worried if you don’t execute them correctly the first time. Once you’ve nailed them, this will only serve to boost your confidence when you come to this shot in real life.

Play Golf Anywhere, anytime

The final thing golfers will really love about the Approach R50 is how versatile it is. Wherever you like to hit balls or work on your swing, the Approach R50 can get there. It only weighs 4kg and comes with a robust carry case so you can take it to the driving range knowing it will get there in one piece. The fact that the ball placement area is almost directly in front of the unit means that even the worst of shanks shouldn’t make contact!

The four hour battery life means that every session won’t end prematurely and the weekly tournaments provide a platform for competitive golfers to test their skills. For the avid golfer that wants feedback on their swing and the ability to get a tee time anywhere, any time, the Garmin Approach R50 is the perfect choice. Visit garmin.com to find out more.

Are you looking to take your game to the next level? And do you want to get more enjoyment from the sport? Step up the new Garmin Approach R50, golf's only all-in-one launch monitor and simulator!

This new, premium release from Garmin gives golfers the luxury of playing a full virtual round of golf from the comfort of their own home or at the driving range.

The innovative Approach R50 captures every detail of your swing and the shot you're hitting thanks to three high-speed cameras shooting at 1,700fps that track more than 15 ball and club metrics including spin rate, ball speed and both carry and total distance. Face to path is one of those, too, and tracking stickers are provided for you to understand how you deliver the club to the ball. For indoor and outdoor use, spin rate has been improved to give you the most accurate numbers no matter what the weather.

There's even a built-in barometer to measure atmospheric pressure in order to provide accurate carry distances depending on your location!

When you're working on your swing for the season ahead, take advantage of the training mode to become a better golfer and know your game better than ever. It tracks stats for each of your clubs and gives you a shot dispersion chart based on an advanced ball flight trajectory model. The Approach R50 also records your impact in high-speed for immediate visual impact on how you're striking each shot.

And come rain or shine, you can play any of the 43,000 pre-loaded golf courses from around the world, including putting, along with three of your buddies thanks to the Home Tee Hero mode (active Garmin Golf membership required) that utilises the Approach R50's built-in, 10-inch colour touchscreen display that is its own golf simulator.

If you want to take things up a level and create the ultimate home sim experience, just connect the device to a monitor or projector via HDMI. You can also customise what is shown on the external projector/monitor and the in-built screen, so you could have the course you're tackling on the big screen and your launch monitor numbers or impact video replays displayed on the R50 itself.

You can even compete globally and get your name up the leaderboard in weekly tournaments against other Approach R50 users.

The Approach R50 is super easy to setup and stow away, and it comes with a healthy 4 hours of battery life for when you want to take it to the range with you. The included carry case also keeps your device nice and safe.

All this incredible technology and versatility comes in a sleek package that is far more affordable than traditional launch monitors, with the Approach R50 priced at £4,299.99.

So if you're ready to become a better golfer and have more fun away from the course, be sure to check out the Garmin website.

Golfers, this off-season could be the turning point for your game!

HackMotion's Wrist Sensor provides real time insights at how you move in key moments of the swing. It will quickly identify faults and provide instant feedback on how to improve and move correctly.

The HackMotion Pro is the brand's most premium offering, coming with all the wrist data, tour data and analytics for both hands in the ultimate feature package to improve your swing as well as every aspect of your game. It comes with Guided Practice, Free Practice and Putting Practice training modes.

In our review of the HackMotion wrist sensor, we found it to be one of the best training aids on the market for golfers who struggle with ball striking and general inconsistency.

Find out more HERE

Why HackMotion is a game-changer:

• Personalized Insights: Pinpoint swing faults with detailed analysis.
• Real-Time Feedback: Get tailored drills and instant guidance to improve faster.
• Lasting Results: Build muscle memory and lock in a swing that works for you.

It's an easy tool to use, simply attach it to your wrist and pair it to the app. Straight away you will get access to all the data on the key metrics as well as how you compare to some of the world's best players.

HackMotion is able to identify your key issues and provide you with a personalised training program with only 10 swings! With insights like these you could better your game in just a few practice sessions.

Head here to find out more

For some time now, the Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1 golf balls have been widely recognized as the best golf balls on the market and with some refinements made to the 2023 models, the 2025 Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls look set to be the best Titleist Golf balls released to date.

The Pro V1 has come a long way since its inception on the PGA Tour 25 years ago and the R&D team at Titleist is continuing to find ways to ensure the bi-annual release of these balls is the best version it can be before reaching the hands of tour players and amateur golfers alike. More than 125 patents have been created since the original Pro V1 was created and over 2,500 dimple patterns have been designed since the first model was released two-and-a-half decades ago.

A lot of the research and development that goes into the making of both of these new balls has come from golf shots hit by both person and robot at the Titleist Performance Center at Manchester Lane in Acushnet, Massachusetts or Oceanside, California. These centers cumulatively collect more than 20,000 data points a day and over 5 million a year to ensure that when the next product is released, it truly is the best it can be.

A new faster high gradient core is something that has been integrated into both models and steepens what Titleist refers to as the “spin slope”. The idea is to provide optimal spin conditions while increasing ball speed and adding spin with approach shots into and around the greens. To work alongside the high-gradient core, both balls are made with a speed-amplifying, high-flex casing layer which helps eliminate excessive spin to create optimal trajectory and a Urethane Elastomer Cover is what provides both models high levels of greenside spin.

Both models possess a much more prominent side stamp than the 2023 releases but for those seeking even further alignment assistance, there are custom options available on the Titleist website, including an extended alignment stamp, measuring 65 percent longer than the standard option.

While there has been the same new technology applied to both golf balls, both the 2025 Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls will offer different performance characteristics through layering and dimple design. The 2025 Pro V1 remains a three-piece golf ball with a spherically-tiled 388 tetrahedral dimple design to help produce a lower, more penetrative ball flight, meanwhile, the 2025 Pro V1x golf ball boasts four layers and a 348 spherical-tiled dimple design to help promote a higher, more consistent ball flight and higher short game spin.

The 2025 Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls made their official debut on the PGA Tour at the Shriners Children’s Open back in October 2024 and within five weeks each ball had already been used to claim victory on the biggest stage. Nico Echavarria used the 2025 Pro V1x to reach 20 under-par and claim a one-shot victory over Titleist Ambassador Justin Thomas at the ZOZO Championship, while Maverick McNealy earned his maiden PGA Tour victory at the RSM Classic using the 2025 Pro V1 golf ball.

“We're always trying to improve the golf ball in some way, and it's all driven by golfer feedback,” said Mike Madson, Vice President, Titleist Golf Ball R&D. “We start by talking with the best players in the world, who help us define what better is for both Pro V1 and Pro V1x. The goal is to help golfers score better, and to do that, we're going to use every tool we have in the toolbox.”

Despite the competition hotting up in the premium golf ball market thanks to recent releases from Srixon and Mizuno, Titleist will be hoping the 2025 Pro V1 and Pro V1x will continue to justify their reasoning for being regarded as the gold standard when it comes to golf balls.

Golf Monthly Deputy Editor Joel Tadman has reviewed both the new balls and was impressed by the performance of the new offerings: “Where Pro V1 really excelled for me in testing was on iron shots. I felt in complete control of the ball from a variety of distances and centered strikes were rewarded with consistent carry distances. If this is an area of the game you prioritize, you’ll love what the 2025 Pro V1 ball has to offer.” Read his full Titleist 2025 Titleist Pro V1x golf ball review here.

The 2025 Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls will be available at retail worldwide from the 25th January with an RRP of £52 per dozen.

Looking for a stunning gift to buy for a tech-loving golfer this Christmas? Look no further than the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate.

The WATCH Ultimate will be a very popular gift this holiday season, thanks to its cutting edge design mixed with high quality materials and innovative features that are great for everyday smart watch use as well as on the golf course.

Here are 6 reasons why the WATCH Ultimate will be the perfect Christmas gift for your loved one…

Premium materials

The WATCH Ultimate is an elegant and sophisticated watch made with cutting-edge craftsmanship that stands at the pinnacle of smartwatch design. It is built to stand the test of time thanks to its state-of-the-art Zirconium-based Liquid Metal make-up, which is 4.5x stronger and 2.5x harder than stainless-steel. The luxurious finish is akin to the finest medical-grade devices and luxury watches.

The Nano-Tech Ceramic Bezel, available in the Blue and Black models, and the Green Edition exclusive Dual-Colour Nano-Tech Ceramic Bezel, demonstrates HUAWEI's precision engineering and add to the watch's refined aesthetics.

Display

The WATCH Ultimate’s sophisticated 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display is both slim and flexible, while vibrant visuals allow for easy viewing in all environments. The display is also protected by high-strength sapphire crystal glass that is both waterproof and wear-resistant for ultimate durability.

Straps

The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate offers a variety of straps that are all of supreme quality. The Black comes with an HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber) strap, Blue offers both HNBR and premium titanium options, and Green includes the new dual-colour integrated woven strap, HNBR, and premium titanium options to go with all of your favourite outfits and match the occasion.

Golf mode

As well as premium design and industry leading software, the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate also has a Golf Mode for passionate players to get the most out of their games. It tracks your practice and swing thanks to the helpful Driving Range Mode, which detects your backswing time, downswing time, swing tempo and swing speed.

You can also track your numbers and shot distances as well as making use of the digital scorecard when you play. The comprehensive upgrade includes the all-new Golf Course Mode with 15,000+ global golf courses maps, plays-like distance, shot distance, AI Caddie, 3D course effect, Half-Scoring Report and more.

Outdoor sports

The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate is also great for hiking, diving and other outdoor adventures, thanks to a number of innovative features. It encompasses accurate Dual-Band Five-System GNSS positioning capability, powerful outdoor sports mode, all-round outdoor information companion, exercise power management, and a brand new update that brings Offline Contour Maps to your wrist.

Battery life

And you don’t have to worry about any of this clever technology dying on you. For the ultimate experience, HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate brings up to 14 days of battery life with heavy usage, with up to 8 days of battery life under regular usage. With AOD enabled, the watch can last up to 4 days

Buy the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate

Cobra is regularly producing some of the most compelling golf club families each year from both a visual and performance perspective. The Cobra Darkspeed range impressed in testing, resonated at grass roots level and was popular among many Cobra Puma tour players. The likes of Rickie Fowler and Lexi Thompson put the Darkspeed driver in play and across the pond the flamboyant Angel Hidalgo recently saw success in Spain with the Darkspeed LS driver in the bag. However, the introduction of a new 33-setting hosel adapter, a new H.O.T. face design and refined shape for improved aerodynamics on the new DS-ADAPT range look set to take it to heights the Darkspeed family couldn't reach.

WATCH: Gear expert Joe Ferguson tests and compares the new DS-ADAPT driver

What Is The Technology?

Aesthetically, the DS-ADAPT drivers do look fairly similar to their predecessors, the Cobra team is extremely excited about the latest innovations and rightly so. The new FutureFit33 adjustable hosel system has been designed with complete performance in mind. The better the driver is fitted to each individual using it, the more success they’re likely to have. The settings for this comprehensive hosel system, which decouples loft and lie angle for the first time on a Cobra club, can be easily found via an etched in QR code found on the hosel of the club. Scan this and you have easy access to information on how to adjust your driver correctly. The QR codes are found on all of the metalwoods in the range - drivers, fairway woods and hybrids.

As you can probably guess from the name, this new hosel allows for a staggering 33 hosel settings that can be accessed and taken advantage of as simply as any other adjustable hosel on the market. When changing hosel settings on key competitors drivers and fairways, the lie angle and face direction changes but thanks to the Smartpad technology incorporated in the DS-ADAPT metalwoods this is not the case. The Smartpad Technology is a clever sole geometry design that keeps the clubface square at address regardless of the setting.

Progressive Aero shaping has been implemented in the design of the Cobra DS-ADAPT drivers, meaning each model has a tailored shape to help them produce the performance sought after by different player types. The new design sees all of the drivers benefit from reduced drag for an increase in club and ball speed - two things all golfers will happily welcome with any new driver. The DS-ADAPT range also features the H.O.T. technology that was seen in the Darkspeed range for increased ball speeds across the whole hitting area and to maximize ball speed at different points on the face.

Depending on what model and what loft you choose, the DS-ADAPT drivers have a newly refined Pwr-Bridge weight as well as adaptive weighting both internally and externally. The likes of the LS has weight closer towards the face, moving the center of gravity forward and therefore creating less spin. The more forgiving heads in the range have discretionary weight placed lower and further towards the rear for increased ease of launch and more forgiveness.

What Are The Models And Who Are They Aimed At?

Drivers

There are four driver models in the Cobra DS-ADAPT range all of which feature a lightweight carbon crown as part of a multi-material construction that also is made up of a lightweight titanium frame for improved stability and weight distribution.

The DS-ADAPT X is the head in the range that will suit the widest range of golfers by featuring a 460cc head with balanced, front and back weighting for overall performance at different swing speeds. The X will suit many different swing profiles combining high levels of forgiveness with distance.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT X driver review

The LS is the lowest spinning and launching head in the lineup that will be used by players with faster swing speeds who are looking to lower their ball flight. The 445cc head is slightly smaller than the others in the range, has been designed with a higher crown and boasts new heel aero shaping for a more compact look at address.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT LS driver review

The DS-ADAPT Max K is a model that wasn’t seen in last year's range and has been brought into the lineup to provide maximum forgiveness. This model possesses 10k MOI which will see it become one of the most forgiving models released this year. The large circular 460cc head will inspire confidence at address for those that are looking for it.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT Max K driver review

The final driver model is the DS-ADAPT Max D. This is a driver designed to provide the same distance and forgiveness as the Max-K despite a draw-bias design achieved through additional weighting in the heel to assist golfers that struggle with a miss to the right.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT Max D driver review

Fairway Woods

The DS-ADAPT fairway range mimics the same models released last year in the Darkspeed lineup. Similar to the driver models, the X is the head that will likely suit the majority of golfers. The slightly more rounded head offers a confidence inspiring look behind the ball and the Pwr-Bridge weight situated just forward of centre will help provide less spin, increase playability, all without sacrificing launch.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT X Fairway Wood review

The DS-ADAPT LS Titanium fairway is a visibly more compact looking head than the X model, with a deeper face and will suit the eye of the better player. This model has been designed to be the fastest in the range and combines a titanium structure with a carbon fiber crown. The weight saved is added back in the form of 34g of internal tungsten and two external 13g removable weights, positioned low and forward for a low launch, low spin combination. The LS features a larger and thinner titanium face insert featuring H.O.T. face technology for faster ball speeds regardless of strike location.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT LS Titanium fairway wood review

The Max is the most forgiving fairway wood in the lineup and is designed as draw-bias to help eliminate a miss to the right as a right-handed golfer. The draw-bias nature of the Max fairway wood is achieved through two moveable weights. One towards the rear and one towards the heel on the sole of the club. In order to create the most user-friendly fairway, the DS-ADAPT Max has the shallowest face for ease of launch and to provide a confidence inspiring look.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT Max fairway wood review

Hybrids

To round off the new Cobra DS-ADAPT metalwood range is the hybrid. These hybrids feature much of the same technology as the drivers and fairways such as adaptive weighting, creating a low and forward CG placement and the H.O.T. Face Technology helps promote launch and fast ball speeds. There has been a marginal footprint increase compared to the Darkspeed hybrid to instill confidence to the user when the club is held at address and it features the new FutureFit33 hosel to help accurately dial in ball flight.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT hybrid review

Irons

There are two new irons in the Cobra DS-ADAPT range, both of which have been designed with game improvement in mind and feature some interesting new technology. Both the standard and DS-ADAPT Max irons are made with a hollow body construction to create a thinner face and therefore increased face flexibility and ball speed. To help with vibration at impact and acoustics, the hollow cavity is filled with soft microspheres, a similar design to that seen on some of the most forgiving wedges such as the Callaway CB wedge. Pwr-Bridge technology continues to feature in the DS-ADAPT irons with the lower positioning helping promote a high launch for greater stopping power.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT iron review

The tech in these irons believe it or not doesn’t stop there. A new 360 Speedshell face has been introduced and is Cobra’s largest face cup design to date, seeing the expanded insert run all the way from the heel to the toe and the addition of an internal speed channel to help improve face flexibility. The combination of this new technology and H.O.T. Face Technology used on the DS-ADAPT irons, according to Cobra, creates a 23 percent increase in face flexibility which in turn will lead to more speed, launch and ultimately distance.

Read our full Cobra DS-ADAPT Max iron review

While both irons feature much of the same technology, there are some cosmetic differences. The Max irons are built with a slightly thicker topline, longer blade length and slightly more off-set. This naturally leads to a larger looking head, promoting confidence and will very much fall into the most forgiving iron territory. The Max irons also feature a slightly wider sole and have lofts that are 2° weaker than the standard models to help produce a higher trajectory.

Who’s Using Them On Tour?

The product looks to have been seeded on tour over the past month or so with Jesper Svensson seen using the DS-ADAPT LS driver on route to a T-7 finish at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai. The off-season has arrived for many professional players and now is the time in which they will experiment with new equipment and upgrade to the latest gear. As Cobra Puma ambassadors, it’s expected that Rickie Fowler, Gary Woodland and Justin Suh will all put the new driver in play when they make their first starts of the 2025 PGA Tour season.

What Cobra Says

“FutureFit33 is a true breakthrough in metalwood fitting. Never before has any hosel system provided 33 unique loft and lie settings that can be adjusted so quickly and easily. 33 settings is more than four times our previous hosel system and more than double our nearest competitor.

Cobra has long been a leader in game improvement irons, but the new DS-ADAPT family represents a major breakthrough in both performance and fitting. We have two models that can fit a massive group of players with varying swing speeds, all of whom are looking for maximum distance, exceptional forgiveness, and optimal overall performance.”

Our First Impressions

Just like the Darkspeed range, it’s hard not to love the looks of the new Cobra DS-ADAPT lineup. The minimalist, techy is something I’m a big fan of and gives these clubs a real premium and modern look. One of the biggest things I loved about the new drivers was the additional alignment lines on the face. This will help golfers center the ball much easier than on the Darkspeed range and likely promote more center strikes.

I initially questioned if the FutureFit33 hosel would overwhelm golfers through the sheer volume of options. But the addition of the etched QR code is a genius way of ensuring all golfers understand what settings equate to promoting which ball flight and they don’t have to worry about trying to find the graph on the internet or carry a chart in their golf bag. It's simple to grasp and will be really beneficial.

Specs, Pricing & Availability

On Sale: January 17th 2025
RRPs: Drivers $549/£469, LS Titanium fairway $429/£349, X/Max fairway $329/£289, hybrid $299/£249, irons $999/£799 steel/ $1099/£899 graphite
Driver, Woods And Hybrid Stock Shafts: True Temper Denali Black/Blue/Red, Fujikura Pro Black, MCA Tensei AV Blue
Hybrid Stock Shaft: KBS PG Hybrid
Iron Stock Shafts: KBS Tour Lite Steel, KBS PGI Graphite

In this latest Retro Review, I heading back to the origins of a short-game dynasty. Some marriages just make sense in golf, Faldo and Sunesson, Phil and Bones, and one that has stood the test of time above all others is Bob Vokey and Titleist. I picked up one of the earliest available Vokey models, the 200 raw series, for the bargain price of £38.99 from golfclubs4cash and put it up against its modern-day equivalent in the Vokey SM10, which has an RRP of £169. With the best part of a quarter of a century between them, I was expecting some significant performance differences.

WATCH: Joe Ferguson compares the original Vokey 200 series against the recent SM10 in a variety of situations

What was the tech?
The Vokey 200 series wedges were cast from soft 8620 carbon steel for the ultimate in feel. They featured U grooves for optimal spin and a distinctive hosel knurling as a nod to a bygone era offering a very classic appearance. The investment casting process that Titleist and Vokey used was designed to ensure a precise profile and sole shapes. This particular model was left with the raw untreated finish, allowing the head to rust over time which was generally the tour preferred finish.

How did it perform?
With nearly 25 years between the manufacturing of these two wedges, I was expecting to see a huge gulf in performance, and to quantify that performance, I headed out the the practice ground and chipping green with my FullSwing KIT launch monitor to start gathering some data. For context and equality, both of the wedges I tested had 56 degrees of loft and 14 degrees of bounce, and both fitted with S Flex shafts.

Truth be told, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a spin point of view, as while you would imagine with 20+ years of usage the spin output may have significantly diminished, the now banned U grooves left me wondering whether it may have retained more spin than expected. In truth, there was a difference in spin, with the new SM10 producing a little more, but with only 300 rpm between them on full shots, I was somewhat surprised. The lower-spinning 200 series also produced a higher launch angle at 38° versus the 35.5° from the SM10 resulting in a slightly higher peak height and a steeper descent angle.

When I headed to the chipping green, I basically saw a shrunken-down version of what I had witnessed in the full shots, with the ball seeming to stay on the face of the SM10 a little longer and producing lower, grippier pitch shots. The 200 series didn’t lack stopping power either but seemed to produce it in a different way with a higher flight allowing it to settle quickly more through trajectory than spin. Both wedges felt excellent off the face with a real depth of strike apparent and exceptional feedback across the faces.

Conclusion
The key thing I look for when testing older wedges is spin decay, how much grip have the grooves lost over time, and to be honest only being 300 rpm behind a brand new 2024 SM10 is an impressive feat from a wedge nearly celebrating its 25th birthday, albeit with grooves that are now likely non conforming. Aside from that performance parameter, I could certainly make a case that I enjoyed the older wedge more with its beautifully rounded leading edge and simple aesthetic in the bag and with the significantly different price tag, if you aren’t looking to compete in professional or elite amateur events that may enforce the groove change rule, then there is some excellent performance up for grabs for a fraction of 2024 prices.

The technology that forms the best golf rangefinders has advanced significantly in the last decade or so. Early models were straightforward and rudimentary, offering quick and accurate yardages to the pin, but that was pretty much all they could do.

Now, brands are innovating in areas we didn't think were possible or viable in the rangefinder space. Given the wealth of options available across all price points in the market, manufacturers have been busy trying to differentiate and get their models to stand out.

WATCH: Dan Parker tests and compares the latest golf rangefinders

Along with the rest of the Golf Monthly team, I've been busy testing every size, shape and priced rangefinder over the last 12 months. Collectively, we've built up a pretty good knowledge base of all the various new bells and whistles on modern rangefinders. From our testing, here are seven surprising features some of the best modern rangefinders now possess.

1. Distance triangulation

While I'll list these rangefinder features in no particular order, this is by far the most useful innovation and has greatly benefitted those who frequently play cart path golf.

Picture the scene - it's cart path golf only and your ball is positioned on the other side of the hole to the cart path your clubs are stuck to. You've now got to go back and forth from cart to ball to get your yardage and the correct club. It takes up time, slows down the rate of play and gets in the way of the golf at hand. Luckily, there are rangefinders now that can halve the time it takes to solve this problem.

The distance triangulation feature allows you to scope the ball and then the pin, all while you're still standing by your cart. It means you can accurately understand your yardage without having to go back and forth from the cart to the ball. You can also use it to identify lay-up points on par fives to your favorite yardage or get a distance for a playing partner.

It's appearing on more and more models too. The one pictured above is the Voice Caddie Laser Fit - my personal favorite - but models like the Caddytalk Cube and GolfBuddy Laser 2S Pro also utilize this feature to great effect. With pace of play being such an issue in golf at the minute, this innovation has been on of the few things to try and help the problem.

2. Built-in cameras

While this doesn't solve the same amount of problems as the ball triangulation feature, the addition of a fully functioning still and video camera to the new Canon PowerShot was a surprising but enjoyable feature that we enjoyed testing.

As a rangefinder in its own right, this device was brilliant on test. It has a huge 12x zoom function, a stabilizer that steadies the image even with shaky hands and has a bright viewfinder. The feather in its cap is the built-in camera, which allows you to take still images and video while you're on the course. The Canon PowerShot is the only rangefinder currently on the market with this feature the functionality and quality still need a little work. Nonetheless, this is a cool new feature on a rangefinder and is perhaps a sneak peek into the future of what further functionality these devices could hold.

3. Factoring in altitude and temperature

While we've become used to adjusted distances via slope functionality on most modern rangefinders (this is where the device calculates how far up or downhill the shot is and will adjust the yardage accordingly), manufacturers have started adding further features that will adjust yardage depending on the conditions you're playing in.

A prime example of this comes in the shape of the Bushnell Pro X3+. Alongside the usual slope-adjusted distances, this device also accounts for the temperature and barometric pressure (elevation) to give you a better understanding of how far the pin is away. This particular model will also display the windspeed through the viewfinder when connected to the Bushnell app, giving you even more data at your fingertips.

Much like slope functionality, using this data to inform your decision-making is banned in competition, so bear this in mind if you're a regular competition player rather than just a casual golfer. That being said, nothing is stopping you from noting down the effects of altitude and temperature on distance during a practice round and having that information to hand for the competition round.

4. View stabilization

I briefly alluded to this in the section discussing the Canon PowerShot, but now many rangefinders come with technology that allows the picture through the viewfinder to stay incredibly steady, regardless of environmental factors like wind. The Nikon Coolshot Pro II Stabilized (pictured above) uses technology garnered from the brand's other imaging products to produce a steady view of the pin through the viewfinder, regardless of shaky hands or wind affecting the steadiness of the device, making it much easier and quicker to lock onto the pin. Those who do have shakier hands or who play in particularly windy conditions will benefit from a modern rangefinder with this technology.

5. Find my rangefinder

Hands up if you've ever left you rangefinder in a golf cart? Oh, that looks to me like everyone. Yes, it's a very common mistake to make and I think you'll be hard-pressed to find any golfer who hasn't left their rangefinder somewhere, most commonly attached to the side of a cart or on a previous fairway. Luckily, so many of the newest rangefinder are built to be integrated alongside an app on your smartphone which allows them to communicate so you can see the exact location of your rangefinder at any point. The Garmin Z30 (pictured above) is an example of a model that has a 'Find My' feature.

It works in a very similar way to the 'Find My iPhone' functionality works. The app will show you the exact location of your rangefinder, which will allow you to go into the pro shop with your tail in between your legs and ask the pro to head onto the course to collect it for you. It's also a useful device against theft and if you're unlucky enough to have your device pinched, you'll be able to find the culprit on your phone. Disclaimer: I do not condone confronting the crook yourself. Get the authorities involved.

6. Ecosystem integration

This feature once again applies to the superb Garmin Approach Z30 rangefinder, which my colleague Sam De'Ath said was a joy to test. Garmin makes a swathe of other golf GPS devices including some of the best GPS watches and best handheld GPS devices. Neatly, Garmin created the Z30 rangefinder so it could work alongside some of its other GPS watches. When synced with a product like the Approach S70 watch, the Z30 will cast the exact location of the pin onto your bird's eye view of the green.

This feature works both ways too. With the watch and rangefinder synced up, the watch will display the distance to the back and the front of the green through the viewfinder, once the pin has been zapped. If you're a golfer who likes to be fed as much data as possible before hitting a golf shot, taking advantage of products that can talk to each other in one ecosystem is a great way to go.

7. Belt attachments

I'll be honest, I'm less convinced this particular innovation is something golfers have been crying out for. If you're this far down the page, thank you, and stay with me. Above, you can see the GolfBuddy Aim Quantum rangefinder, neatly stored in a carry pouch that can attach to your belt. Does it look good? Debatable. Has anyone asked for such a concept before? Maybe. Is it actually sort of useful to have it that close to you? Yes. The answer to that last question is important because, during our testing, we did actually find it somewhat useful to have the rangefinder on your person at all times. It's so small it doesn't really affect your swing and it beats taking it in and out of your bag after every shot.

Of course, there are bite-size rangefinders like the Voice Caddie Laser Fit, GolfBuddy Laser Atom or the CaddyTalk Minimi that you can just put in your pocket if you want to have it on you at all times without the need for a case. If you like the look of the GolfBuddy rangefinder, but not the belt attachment, it does come with a 'normal' carry case too.

With winter well and truly upon us, now is the time to buckle down and get some practice in so you come out firing once the season starts back up in the spring. With daylight hours dwindling, getting the chance to head to the driving range after work is slim and so one of the best ways you can keep your game sharp is by purchasing one of the best putting mats and working on your stroke.

The thing that makes a putting mat one of the best golf training aids around is that they will fit almost anywhere in your home. Most putting mats are around 8ft in length with some spanning upwards of 15ft. 8ft is the distance in which a PGA Tour player is just as likely to make a put as miss a put and so if you can improve from this distance and in, you’re likely to see your scores come down quickly.

Putting requires very little physical strength, speed or flexibility making it the one part of the game literally everyone can get better at. So is it worth purchasing a putting mat and do they help you improve your putting? I recently tested a wide selection of the latest mats and have highlighted some of the key things to think about when purchasing a putting mat.

They Provide A Quality Surface

Whenever I talk about indoor putting practice to people, the majority don’t actually own a putting mat and rely on finding the one part of carpet in their house in order to squeeze a few repetitions in. This is fine for a very make-shift putting surface or if you’re purely focusing on the strike or putter path but the ball is likely to wobble and roll unevenly on standard carpet. When I think about putting, I believe it’s roughly a 50/50 split between stroke mechanics and self belief. That said, it’s kind of crazy to think you’d be willing to practice on a surface that will have you guessing whether it’s you or the surface that is creating the ball to roll off-line.

The thickness and speed of carpet varies a lot, so the chances of you practicing on a carpet that replicates the speed of a true green are slim. Almost all of the best putting mats run between a 9 and 11 on the stimpmeter, so you can be assured you’ll likely reap the rewards from any pace control work you put in on your putting mat once you get back onto the golf course. If you play on very fast greens that run above 11 on the stimpmeter, I recommend the Eyeline Golf Roll The Rock putting mat. This has proved to be one of the quicker mats during my testing.

Provide A Realistic Experience

While this links back to the previous point by having a playing surface that is true to the speed and roll of a real green, there are other features on putting mats that should be taken into account before making a purchase. Putting mats vary in price and that price tends to be related to the features on offer.

The more budget putting mats such as the PuttOut putting mat are fairly basic, offering a decent surface, albeit on the slower side, and have a few distance markers across the mat. This mat comes to retail at just under $60 whereas the PuttOut AirBreak putting mat, that gives you the opportunity to practice breaking putts, is available to purchase at around the $400 mark. This clever mat has been designed with eight foot pumps to alter the putting surface so you can create any breaking putt you’re likely to face when on the golf course - even double breakers! This mat is very much at the premium end of putting mats, alongside the PrimePut putting mat which offers a synthetic grass playing surface and real-life lip out cups that replicate those on real greens. Matching up both pace and line is imperative when looking to hole putts on the course and so it should be no different in practice - even if you are inside!

Your Putting Stroke Will Become Bulletproof

Putting in the hours on a putting mat is the same as spending hours honing your swing on the range or in a golf net. You’re likely going to iron out any poor mechanics and build a repetitive and reliable putting stroke that you can rely on when the season comes back around. Many putting mats have markers on them which help you set the putter face square at address and even have lines to help you line up your feet and shoulders. The Me And My Golf Breaking Balls putting mat is a great example of having multiple alignment features for both clubface and start line.

While your putting mat alone isn’t going to transform your stroke, this putting mat actually comes with a QR code that provides you with a series of video lessons from Piers and Andy at Me And My Golf to help you along the way. You can also add some of the best training aids such as putting mirrors to your practice to really help sharpen your set-up and the path of your stroke. Once you’ve spent some hours doing this throughout the winter, you’ll be deadly on the greens upon your return to the golf course.

Gain More Confidence Than Ever

Nothing will truly replicate the pressure you come under when facing a 5ft putt on the course to beat your friends or to win the club championship, but repetitions on a good surface, where hopefully you’re holing more putts than not, will increase your confidence levels.

While at first glance it may seem as though you’re just hitting the same putt over and over again, I like to challenge myself by giving myself either a make percentage out of 50 putts or having to make a certain amount of putts in a row before I can leave the mat. If you do this with a family member or friend and you're half as competitive as me, a straight 6ft putt all of a sudden looks a little longer!

There’s no denying the answer to the main question asked at the start of this article is an unequivocal yes. If you’re serious about improving your golf this winter and want to come back sharper in the spring, then putting mats are certainly worth the investment. With around half of our shots taken on a golf course coming on the greens, it’s arguably the area of the game all golfers should spend time practicing most throughout the year and a putting mat lets you do just that. Find a mat that has the features and quality you desire and that fits in your budget and you’ll only be questioning why you didn’t purchase one sooner.

The story of how Bryson DeChambeau came to play the Avoda Golf one-length irons is a fascinating one, but arguably not as fascinating as the actual specification of the irons themselves. I was fortunate enough recently to be invited for a custom fitting session with Avoda Golf (more interesting content to follow on that), and at that fitting just so happened to be one of three 7-irons in existence built specifically for Bryson DeChambeau. One of the three is in his bag (obviously), another is in Fresno with Avoda founder Tom Bailey, and the third is in the possession of Avoda’s UK contact, Toby Graves. Not one to be shy about such things, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to give it a try, and here is what I learned…

Club head

The first thing that struck me when I picked up the 7-iron was the extraordinary visual in the playing position. From the back, or the ‘in the bag’ position, there is nothing out of the ordinary, just a nice neat, minimalist, almost blade-like iron, however, when you pop it into the playing position, everything changes. One of the main features of these irons is the curved or bulging face that is designed to exploit the advantages of gear effect much like we see in the best drivers, the best fairway woods, and the best golf hybrids, but not being used to this look in irons, it is a bit of a shock at first.

Because the face bulges closer to the target in the center, it almost gives the appearance of onset, or face progression, which is strange to begin with and very different to what we see in the best golf irons, but I have to say I really started to enjoy it by the end of my session.

Another standout feature to me was the heel-to-toe length which I would class as being on the generous side for a club designed to be played specifically by one of the best players in the game. It genuinely framed the ball nicely however and really helped to inspire confidence in behind the ball.

It never ceases to amaze me with golf equipment that no matter how unusual or unorthodox the look of a club is initially, within five or ten minutes my brain adjusts and can become used to, or even fond of, almost anything, and that was certainly the case here.

Lie angle

Now this one crept up on me a little. I knew Bryson played his irons in a pretty upright spec - his irons and wedges are all built to the exact same length and lie angle, but the 69-degree lie angle (or around 7˚ more upright from a somewhat ‘standard’ lie angle in 7-iron) creates a seriously unusual aesthetic.

The clubface almost looks like it is pointing the loft right back at your face, and as someone who predominantly fights the right miss, I found it strangely reassuring. In fact, speaking with Toby during the fitting, it seems that one of Avoda’s general preferences is for a more upright lie angle with the company's owner/founder Tom Bailey believing that most golfers are playing irons that are too flat for them. No such worries on this iron!

Grip

Bryson uses JumboMax Tour Series XL grips on all his full-swing clubs. The grips are 3/8“ larger in diameter than standard golf grips, which in grip terms is frankly enormous. Holding these grips is a completely different experience from anything I have felt before when gripping a golf club. Normally, I would be a big advocate of gripping the club more in the fingers as opposed to the palm, but the sheer girth of these things makes that impossible for me at least.

For context here, I wear a men's large golf glove, so I’ve not exactly got small hands either, and that was just at address. During the swing, I found it seriously difficult to keep my hands from actually coming away from the grip, which was a tough sensation to come to terms with and would suggest that they were just beyond a thickness that I could cope with, a theory later confirmed in my fitting session where I came away two sizes down the Jumbo Max scale. Aside from the size issue, I really enjoyed the tacky, soft feel of these grips.

Shaft

Of every unusual component to these clubs, the one that took me back the most was just how unbelievably stiff the LA Golf shafts that Bryson uses are. Once again, to provide some context, I am a PGA Professional and a relatively fast swinger of a club (around 95mph 7-iron and 120mph driver), and I switch between two pretty stout iron shafts in the Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X1OO or the Project X LS 6.5 models, but these things were on another level. They are the ‘Bryson Series Iron Shaft’ from LA Golf and have been specifically designed to marry up with his single-length iron preference.

In all honesty, to me, the shafts didn't impress me. They offered absolutely zero feedback and a very harsh feeling throughout the golf swing, akin to swinging an iron bar or a broomstick, but I could absolutely not argue with the stability. As I warmed up and began to throw myself into it a little more in terms of speed, I began to see and feel a little more from them, but I had to be honest with myself and these shafts were well beyond my capabilities strength-wise!

As I said, I feel that my speed allows me to cope with most things from a spec point of view, but these shafts were comfortably the hardest work I have ever been faced with in a golf club.

Performance

So I have touched on the specs, but the main thing is how did they perform? Firstly from a feel standpoint, I found the clubheads simply excellent. Soft without feeling weak, and with enough spring to offer up a powerful sensation, but not so much that I detected any semblance of a flier, or a ‘jumpy’ strike.

What I was most interested in, however, was how the bulging face would perform on an iron as this is something that I have never previously experienced. Truth be told, it was hard to tell as I didn’t have quite as long as I would have liked with them, but I would say that my dispersion was pleasingly tight. I would love to be able to write that unequivocally, curved-faced irons are the absolute future of golf but I don’t think I have even close to a large enough sample size of testing. Furthermore, the difficulties in bringing this technology to the mass market are vast.

The main prohibitive issue at play for me is that differing clubhead speeds will produce very different results from the same amount of face curvature. For example, if someone with a 60mph clubhead speed were to hit a shot from the toe with Bryson’s level of curvature, the reduced clubhead speed would not be sufficient to activate the gear effect in the same way that Bryson does, and their shot would likely finish a long way right of the target, more so than with a flat-faced iron.

As such the only way it could work would be to offer different levels of curvature for different swing speeds, but the complexities of that both in terms of SKU numbers, and the physics of working out and manufacturing that exact curvature are unfathomably intricate. That said, I have heard some fairly reliable rumors that both Avoda and possibly even LA Golf might just be turning this complex task into a purchasable reality sooner rather than later. Watch this space on that…

It was a young left-handed American by the name of Phil Mickelson wielding a high chrome, graphite shafted blade putter and graphite irons, taking the PGA Tour by storm that first brought Yonex Golf to prominence in the 1990s. Later on, Scott Hoch chalked off several PGA Tour victories as a Yonex ambassador, and Colin Montgomerie, using a full bag of Yonex equipment managed to take down the great Tiger Woods at the 2004 Ryder Cup at Oakland Hills.

Undoubtedly Yonex is a brand steeped in golfing heritage and when you dig a little deeper into its story, the success should come as no surprise. The company was founded in 1946 by Minoru Yoneyama, a producer of wooden floats for fishing nets of all things who became frustrated at being overtaken by the advancements of plastic floats and vowed never to be left behind again. After diversifying and many successful years of manufacturing badminton and tennis racquets, Yonex entered the golf industry in the early 80s and has long been regarded as a pioneer in the graphite space.

This year has seen some exciting products from Yonex including the EZONE GT driver, and EZONE CB 901 Forged irons, and 2025 looks equally as exciting. If the glowing reviews of products like the aforementioned aren’t reason enough to consider Yonex for your next club upgrade, then here are 3 more for you…

From development to production, premium Yonex golf club heads and shafts are made in Japan

The Yonex Niigata Factory in Nagaoka City serves a dual purpose as a development center for creating concepts and designs of new clubs, but also as the production and manufacturing center for club building. This is a major feature of Yonex which centralizes the management of creating its products from development to production at a single site in Japan, allowing designers and builders to work in perfect unison.

All work, from molding the head equipped with the latest technology, to compounding, painting, and attaching the shaft, is done through the hands and eyes of skilled Japanese craftsmen. In particular, the world's top-level carbon composite technology is one of the things that can only be produced at the Yonex Niigata Factory in Japan.

Unique Technologies Put Yonex Ahead Of The Curve

Over the years, Yonex has always been at the forefront of pioneering new technologies and materials and has never been afraid to be different. Yonex was putting some of the world's best players including Phil Mickelson and Scott Hoch in graphite shafts long before it was more widely accepted that graphite could be stable enough for the strongest male professionals. Similarly, one of the biggest features of Yonex clubs is the carbon crown composite head structures which take a huge amount of time and effort to produce. Precision technology is introduced into the heads to optimize CG positions and dial-in launch conditions. These things are impossible to achieve as efficiently with a single material but are precisely controlled with the carbon composite heads that Yonex produces.

Yonex Manufactures Shafts To Precisely Match Heads

Another benefit of manufacturing all components in the same place is that these components can be specifically fine-tuned to work seamlessly with one another. Yonex prefers not to take the chance of a clubhead and shafts performance characteristics not marrying well, and as such researches and develops its own proprietary shafts to maximize the power of the heads and optimize performance. By layering a wide variety of carbon through numerous processes, Yonex creates shafts that provide ideal flexibility and energy transfer for the best ball flights.

Now for many of us the prospect of playing golf when it’s freezing cold, raining or both isn’t overly appealing. But perhaps it’s because your equipment has been letting you down and tarnishing your enjoyment of those winter rounds that could offer you so much more. So why not try one, some or even all of these 10 winter golf gear hacks? They could make a big difference to your scores...

1. Use a faster, higher flying ball

Winter is a good opportunity to play a more distance-orientated ball - the tees are up, which might mean some of the greens on par fours are within reach for the longer hitters and because the greens are soft and receptive, you don't need a premium ball that’s going to stand to attention quickly. Tee shots in the winter really are all about speed and height, there’s a greater reliance on carry through the air. For most golfers, a firmer ball will not only travel faster but it should also launch and fly higher, giving you two chances essentially to be further down the fairway. So you might go from a Titleist Pro V1 to the higher flying Pro V1x ball, for example. Or you might take it a step further and peg up a Titleist Velocity golf ball. Try a few different models and see which one gives you the longest carries - the chances are it will be different to the ball you currently play.

2. Add bounce to your wedges

Wet ground means the leading edge will want to dig more so having a wedge with a wider sole and/or more bounce (12-14°) will help to prevent this and increase the margin for error on your chip shots. If you don’t have one and don’t want to invest in a winter specific wedge, going to a lower lofted wedge and opening the face will expose more bounce and do a similar job. In bunkers, you may want to make the opposite change and play your shots with a straighter leading edge to ensure the club gets under the wet sand, which often gets very compacted.

3. Switch to egg timer tees

Egg timer or castle tees are ideal for play off winter mats as they are more stable but they also ensure you tee the ball at the same height every time. They come in many different color-coordinated heights depending on your preference or the shot you're trying to play. I'd recommend having a variety of options available in your bag - so you can tee the ball up or down if you want to or simply use the same color every time for maximum consistency.

4. Add a groove cleaner to your bag

Clubfaces in the winter get very muddy and if you forget to wipe them clean after every shot, the dirt plus the extra moisture will usually produce less spin as the ball slides up the face rather than being gripped by the grooves. So as well as properly cleaning and drying the clubface of your clubs after every shot I'd also recommend investing in a groove cleaner to maintain as much spin control as possible and perhaps more importantly, the consistency of flight and resulting distance.

5. Club up on approach shots

Softer greens mean the ball is often stopping where it lands or even spinning back. Plus the air is colder and you're likely wearing more layers, which means the ball won’t travel as far. So don’t assume your yardages for each club are the same as what they are in the summer. They will all have reduced - how much will be player dependent, but you can almost certainly afford to club up and aim for the back half of the green given the trouble on most holes is short of the green or in line with the front portion of it. According to data from Arccos, scratch golfers are nearly four percent shorter off the tee, which equates to a significant 11 yards. For a 15 handicap it’s around six yards shorter, so take an extra club and be sure to adjust your lines off the tee accordingly too account for the reduction in distance.

6. Loft up your driver

If you really like the ball that you play, one easy way to get more height on your drives is to loft up your driver. The chances are your driver will have some loft adjustability on the hosel so crank it up and watch your drives sail higher than ever before. Be careful though as adding loft may also alter the face angle so be sure to do your research online or consult with a PGA pro if you're unsure which setting is the correct one.

7. Take advantage of pick and place

Most golf courses will operate the pick and place or preferred lie rule in the winter, so assuming miracles occur and you find the fairway, you can clean your ball (after marking its position) and replace it in a more favorable spot within a certain distance. A clever trick here is to use the line on your ball aligned with your intended target, especially if you don't hit your approach shots as close as you'd like. I've started using the TaylorMade TP5x Stripe and have found the visual pattern really useful off the tee and the fairway as well as on the green, of course. Other balls like the Callaway Chrome Tour Triple Track offer similar aim assistance.

8. Make smart clothing choices

Don’t fall into the trap in the winter of wearing lots of bulky layers to stay warm and dry. A combination I often fall back to is a base layer with a gilet or vest as this takes the chill of the arms and body but allows you to swing almost completely freely. Reducing restriction is crucial as the ball’s already flying shorter so you don’t want to add to that with some bad clothing choices.

9. Replace your shoe cleats

Good grip from your golf shoes is crucial in the winter - you're more likely to slip on wet paths when walking or slippery mats and sloping lies when swinging. One way to negate this, and to also extend the lifespan of your shoes in the process, is to replace the cleats. It can be a fiddly process and one your local pro may not thank you for, but the result is a pair of golf shoes that have been revitalised, providing the extra traction that is so important to have when playing in the offseason.

10. Keep your hands/balls warm

There's little evidence to suggest warm balls go further but there is some evidence to suggest that cold balls don’t go as far. So keeping your balls in your pocket between shots and holes is probably a good idea. Alternatively, you could invest in some mittens or even some heated hand warmers like these from G-Tech - they're a life saver when the temperatures get close to zero.

Only a few days out from its surprise launch on November 11th, the new Garmin Approach R50 has already caused quite a stir. It's a world-first - the first device to combine launch monitor and simulator capabilities all in one. Typically, launch monitors are required to be paired with a gaming laptop or app on a smartphone or tablet, but the Approach R50's built-in 10in color touchscreen negates the need for any other devices. It's something keen golfers across the world have been waiting for for a long time, and it could be a total game changer.

I suspect the reason the R50 is already dominating golf equipment conversations is that we've never seen anything like this. That it comes with an RRP of $4999 (£4299) is also something of a surprise, putting it slap bang in the middle of a crowded launch monitor/home simulator marketplace. At the very least, it feels as though the R50 could be a serious disruptor to products above and below it in the price spectrum. Read our full Garmin Approach R50 review here but it could well be a game changer. Here, I'm going to take a look at exactly what the R50 offers for its price tag and compare it to the rest of the market.

What does the Approach R50 offer?

Before we compare the R50 to its competition, let's look at what it does, how it does it and what makes it so unique. To gather all its critical launch monitor data, it utilises three high-speed cameras, allowing it to capture more than 15 ball and club metrics. These cameras also record a frame-by-frame video of the club travelling through impact, allowing you to see exactly how your club interacted with the ball at impact.

Its most unique feature is the built-in 10-inch touchscreen, which displays everything from the club metrics, video of club impact and all of the graphics for the simulation mode. The touchscreen is the beating heart of the R50 and is where you will operate it and view content. It does come with an HDMI input, which will allow you to cast the screen onto a larger monitor or projector, all while the built-in screen still displays and functions. By the looks of things, this screen is also totally customisable. You can display different modes, angles and data parameters depending on what you prefer to see.

The simulator aspect of the R50 comes from Garmin's Home Tee Hero, which we've seen on other Garmin devices like the Approach R10. It comes pre-loaded with over 43,000 courses and supports multi-player functionality for up to four players at a time. I criticised the Home Tee Hero when I first tested it for being too cartoonish versus the competition, but even this has been given a total update for the launch of R50. The R50's Wi-fi capabilities also open up opportunities to use third-party apps for an even more in-depth simulator experience.

The R50 can be used indoors and outdoors too. Remember, this is a launch monitor and simulator all built into one, so you can take it to the range with you to use as a launch monitor and use the simulator functionality on the go, no matter where you are. This seems to be the true game-changing aspect of this device.

How does the Garmin Approach R50 compare to the best on the market?

Now we know what the Approach R50 can do, let's compare it to the other devices on the market from a few different price points. I'll work only in dollars, making it easier to compare it to all the other devices in the market in one currency. As we now know, the Approach R50 retails for $4999 (£4299 in the UK) bringing it well below the likes of the Trackman iO indoor simulator ($13,995), Trackman 4 (starting from $21,995) and the Foresight GC Quad ($13,995).

These are the cream of the crop when it comes to launch monitor and simulator devices, and the price represents as much. These devices will argue they offer more comprehensive and accurate levels of data thanks to the more advanced hardware and software used throughout. The GC Quad, for example, uses four high-speed cameras instead of the R50's three. This extra camera gives it a larger hitting area and likely gives it an added edge when it comes to accuracy on club and ball data. That being said, I've not had hands-on time with the R50 yet, so this is just an assumption versus the GC Quad. Another feature the GC Quad can also offer essential putting analysis, which the R50 cannot cover. That being said - despite the $9000 difference - both track the same 15-plus club and ball metrics.

There are some clear gaps in technology and features between the GC Quad and the R50, however, the GC Quad requires even more investment on top of the device alone. Indeed, to use the simulator on the GC Quad you'll also have to invest in a high-end gaming laptop to be able to make the most of the FSX Play gameplay. The ace up the R50's sleeve is that capability is built in, and this is why there is already so much hype around the device. Having used both FSX Play and Home Tee Hero on other Foresight and Garmin devices, the graphics and gameplay on FSX certainly have a more realistic and professional feel about it, so I can certainly see why people would lean toward that.

How does it compare to devices with a similar RRP?

The Approach R50's RRP brings square into battle with a handful of what I would describe as 'mid-price' devices like the Full Swing Kit launch monitor (from $4999), Foresight GC3 (starting from $5999) Golfzon Wave launch monitor and simulator ($3995) and Uneekor Eye Mini ($4500). The GC3 in particular is something of a yardstick when it comes to launch monitors and simulators in this sub-10k price bracket and the R50 should really be held up against these products as opposed to the $10,000 plus models.

To me, the Approach R50 has already blown something like the Full Swing Kit launch monitor out of the water. Coming in at the same price, the apparent usability and features on the Garmin far outweigh those of Full Swing. The Full Swing uses machine-learned doppler radar as opposed to the camera system of the R50, meaning the device sits behind the ball rather than beside it. There is no clear science to support whether camera systems work better than radar, with radar systems tracking the ball to predict club data and vice versa with camera-based systems.

While Full Swing does have a built-in screen, it's significantly smaller than on the Garmin and doesn't offer anywhere near the same functionality and touchscreen ability. The Full Swing offers no shot tracer (unless you subscribe to the Pro License) with the screen and the connected app simply shows the raw data.

While both provide essential 15 ball and club metrics you'd want if you were investing in a device like this, the R50 offers full simulator capabilities for the same price. While you can use the Full Swing as part of a home simulator set-up, you'd have to invest in a laptop and some software to run it from and even more expensive. Once again we're seeing why the R50 has so much buzz around it - it offers fully integrated launch monitor and simulator capacities at more than half the price of the biggest names while already blowing similarly priced devices out of the water.

The Uneekor, which currently isn't compatible with any Apple devices, needs a laptop and a third-party app to use the simulator mode. This is also just a two-camera system rather than the R50's three cameras. The Golfzon Wave, a radar device which has added a putting simulator, also requires the additional investment in a laptop and projector to run the simulator software. As you can see, what the R50 has over every device in this price bracket is the built-in simulator capacity, negating any need for further investments.

What about the cheaper launch monitors?

There are products like the Garmin Approach R10 ($499), Rapsodo MLM2 ($699) and Voice Caddie SC4 ($549) that offer launch monitor data and some simulator capacity, but far fewer metrics and overall functionality. To be honest, this is like comparing a Ferrari to a Kia in a driving test, but it's worth looking at what the differences are for those who don't know.

Both the Garmin Approach R10 and Rapsodo MLM2 are launch monitors with simulator capacities when paired with a smartphone or tablet. Use these two devices with a net and you can play simulator golf for a fraction of the price of the other devices we've spoken about. The devices don't have quite as much tech covering ball and club metrics as some more expensive products, but for the more casual simulator experience, they work very well.

Now what?

Those who have made it this far may have already come to the same conclusion as me - the Garmin Approach R50 is a genuine game changer. To have seemingly efficiently combined launch monitor and simulator capabilities in a highly accurate and premium device is a huge achievement. To have it come in under $5000 could be an even bigger coup for those looking to build a home simulator set-up. No need to invest in laptops or other third-party hardware, the R50 may have just streamlined the whole set-up process.

We haven't got our hands on it just yet, but as soon as we do I'm excited to see if it can live up to its expectations. Hopefully, we can also put it in a head-to-head battle with the Foresight GC3, the device I think the R50 will be battling most closely for market share. Like Manchester United vs Arsenal in the Wenger and Ferguson era, this to me is the battle that will decide the coveted 'Best Launch Monitor Under $10,000' crown. Stay tuned.

In the hot seat for the Retro Review treatment, this time is the TaylorMade SLDR hybrid from 2013. Having personally played this model both in the hybrid and fairway wood for a number of years, I remember it fondly as an absolute low-spin bomber so I was extremely keen to see whether it could still produce the goods. This is a club that has been in multiple-major winner, and former world number one Martin Kaymer’s bag for over a decade now, so I was very hopeful.

Original launch date: 2013
Price we paid: £64.99 from golfclubs4cash
Who used it on tour: Martin Kaymer, Paul McGinley, Darren Clarke

What was the tech?
The entire SLDR range was something of a happy accident, with the engineers from TaylorMade making their first serious foray into controlling and reducing spin by moving CG extremely low and forward. And boy, did it work! The only problem was, was that barely anyone could get either the drivers, fairway woods, or hybrids airborne, which led to a very clever retrospective marketing campaign from TaylorMade. “Loft Up” was the buzz phrase with fitting reps all over the globe encouraging users to increase their base loft to match up with the incredibly low spin, creating the very powerful high launch, low spin flight synonymous with the SLDR range.

How did it perform?
To get a flavor of how this hybrid could still perform, I ventured down to my grass practice range, tipped out a bag full of TaylorMade TP5x golf balls, and fired up my FullSwing KIT launch monitor. Starting in the standard loft setting - which is 17˚ in the 2 hybrid I purchased - I hit away a good sample size to gather some data. The spin number surprised me somewhat, being a little higher than I remembered at around the 4800rpm mark, although that could be attributed in part to this model being fitted with a slightly lighter and softer shaft than I am used to. The average apex for me came in at 109ft with a carry number of 238 yards.

Having spoken at length to Martin Kaymer about his SLDR hybrid in a recent “What’s In The Bag” interview, I remembered that he had his set in the lower position on his loft sleeve so I began to tinker around in both the minimum and maximum loft positions and the results were very interesting. In the lower or “Kaymer” setting which took the loft to 15.5˚, as you would expect the peak height and spin dropped considerably to 76ft and 3810rpm respectively, but the carry distance remained exactly the same albeit on a much more penetrating ball flight which produced 15 yards more roll out. In the higher setting which took it to 18.5˚, my carry distance jumped up to 248 yards on average and it produced a much softer, floatier ball flight with 115ft of peak height and interestingly the spin only increased by 100rpm from the standard setting.

Conclusion
As a former long-time user of the TaylorMade SLDR hybrid, I thoroughly enjoyed putting it through its paces once more, and frankly, it didn’t disappoint. The feel and performance could very much still compete with anything among the best golf hybrid clubs, but what really stood out for me was the versatility that the loft sleeve facilitated.

Often I find that only minor performance tweaks are available from many of today's adjustable hosels, however, I almost felt like I had three hybrids in one here with the SLDR. Three very different ball flights are available at the click of a wrench which is a powerful weapon to have at your disposal. I noticed zero difference in ball speed from any hybrid I have tested in the last two years and for the very digestible price of £64.99 from golfclubs4cash, I feel like there is some genuine value available here.

Some of the latest golf clothing from the more established companies has become eye-wateringly expensive, so it’s no wonder that we’re seeing the emergence of alternative brands that offer something more affordable to the everyday golfer. One of these brands is Druids Golf.

Founded in Ireland but based in Edinburgh, its mission was to make high-quality golf apparel and sell it directly to golfers at a price that made it accessible to all. A classic example of this being its rainwear and the prices may have you falling off your chair. You can get a fully waterproof suit consisting of a rain jacket and rain pants as well as a complimentary beanie hat for £99.99 right now. Yes, you read that right. But is this too good to be true or should Druids Golf be a brand you seriously consider? I took its cut-price suit, which comprised the Rain-Tek jacket and Infinite Rain trousers to the course to find out.

The first impressions of the suit are very good. The Rain-Tek jacket comes in a whopping 12 color options and looks well made - no errant stitching or pinching of the material in key areas. It has Velcro cuffs and two zipped pockets at the front for convenient storage. More importantly, when I’ve worn it in the rain it has kept me dry underneath, which is the main thing a waterproof jacket needs to do. The water beads off almost immediately, leaving barely a trace of moisture behind. I even subjected it to a prolonged jet spray from my water bottle on the fabric and zips - once again, nothing got through.

Admittedly I’ve only worn it twice when it has rained and the true test will come in years two and three to see if it has the longevity of a Galvin Green jacket, for example, but it’s hard to fault it so far. The jacket actually comes with a 3-year waterproof guarantee under ‘normal use’ (so don’t wear it when trying to retrieve your ball from a prickly bush). It really looks the part too - not too baggy and while there isn’t an elasticated hem or a great deal of stretch in the fabric, it’s a perfectly playable waterproof jacket providing you get the right size.

The pants also surprised me in a positive way too. They’re a little baggy, but they’ve got plenty of features that enhanced the wearing experience. Notably the choice of three popper settings on the ankle for the right fit and the drawstring at the waist. The ankle zip could have been longer but just like the jacket, it kept water at bay when it rained on the course for me.

One thing is clear - there’s a lot to like about what Druids Golf is offering golfers, especially what you get for your money. Its website is very easy to navigate and there is an abundance of choice, both in terms of colors but also the type of products you can buy. It even offers an ambassador pack where you can choose any jacket, mid layer, polo shirt, trouser, cap or belt and even socks for £99.

This is by no means a paid-for promotional feature - just a first person account of my initial experience with a new, up-and-coming golf apparel brand. Admittedly I’ve only tried the waterproofs, but if the quality of the rest is comparable to what I have encountered then the value for money here appears to be unmatched. I also have friends at my home golf club who wax lyrical about Druids Golf and I'm now beginning to understand why.

Not all golfers are created equal. We can’t all be Rory McIlroy or Nelly Korda! But it’s not just our levels of talent that vary. We also all differ slightly, or significantly, in terms of our size and physique. For that reason, we all can or would benefit from using equipment that’s tailored to our physical requirements. To make the correct stance with the correct posture, we may need clubs that are not standard length or standard lie angle.

We spoke to Andrew Pillans, an expert club fitter at Banchory Golf Club in Aberdeenshire to find out why getting the correct shaft length in your golf clubs is so important.

“Shaft Length is a critical factor in golf and can significantly impact a player’s accuracy, distance, consistency and overall swing mechanics,” says Pillans.

“An essential key to playing good golf is, of course, finding the middle of the clubface. A longer shaft, while offering a higher clubhead speed resulting in more distance, is a great deal harder to control and can often lead to inconsistent strike patterns. A shaft that is shorter may lose some distance but it can lead to a much more reliable strike pattern which overall could actually increase distance.”

So finding the right shaft length could help you gain distance and consistency of strike. It could also help you improve your posture and stance.

“Having the correct shaft length can improve setup and posture,” says Pillans. It can allow golfers to maintain a natural and comfortable posture during the golf swing. With the wrong length of shaft and incorrect posture position all swing mechanics can be impacted.”

And getting the wrong shaft length can impact the lie angle at address. If the club is too long, it could lead to a “toe-up” lie angle. If it’s too short, it could be “toe-down.”

“Having the wrong shaft length can have an effect on lie angle; this can also lead to inconsistencies at address,” says Pillans. “Toe up/Toe Down situations can alter swing dynamics and effect strike and ball flight.”

Telltale Signs You Are Using The Wrong Shaft Length

There are some telltale signs you are perhaps not using the correct length of shaft in your clubs.

Strike (both vertical and horizontal) is the main indicator. If you are persistently hitting the ball out of the toe, that can sometimes be an indication of a club that is too short, similarly if there is a persistent low or thin strike that could indicate the same. Conversely, a consistent heel strike and/or regular fat shots could point towards a club that is too long.

Static posture is alway something to look out for too. Someone very crouched over is likely compensating for clubs that are too short, whereas someone stood bolt upright may well have clubs too long for them.

It’s crucial then to make sure you get the right shaft length, not only to help you get the right setup and posture through the swing but also to help you find more consistency through the strike. The best thing to do is to visit a qualified PGA professional like Andrew Pillans to be measured and assessed. You might find your current equipment is incorrect for you and a change of shaft length could be of significant benefit and help you get better at golf!

The Retro Review series gives me a chance to head back in time and rediscover some classic equipment, and this time the Titleist 975D driver is on the retro radar. This driver was a phenomenon back in 1998 when it was released and led the driver counts on almost every major tour. David Duval became world number one using the 975D, and Tiger Woods was arguably at his very best with this driver, wielding it throughout the ‘Tiger Slam’ which saw him hold all four majors at the same time.

WATCH: Joe Ferguson puts the Titleist 975D up against the 2024 Titleist GT3 driver

Original launch date: 1998
Price we paid: £38.99 from GolfClubs4Cash
Who used it on tour: Tiger Woods, David Duval, Sergio Garcia.

How did it perform?
To see if the 975D was still equipped to compete with today’s technology I pitted it up against the newly released Titleist GT3 driver, one of the best golf drivers this year, for a launch monitor head-to-head.

The first thing I noticed when placing these drivers beside one another was the sheer size difference. The 460cc head of the GT3 dwarfs the more modest 260cc the 975D has to offer, but it should be noted that both heads look extremely premium and sophisticated.

To quantify performance, I tested both drivers outside alongside one another using my Full Swing KIT launch monitor. Starting with the 975D, the feel at impact was nothing short of sensational. Markedly softer and more subdued than any modern driver, it was a real pleasure to strike. Disappointingly, however, the data did not necessarily live up to the quality of the feel.

The spin rate was significantly higher than I expected, averaging around the 3200rpm mark, and the average ball speed of 159.7 mph was somewhat lower than my clubhead speed input warranted, resulting in a fairly modest average carry of 251 yards into a fairly stiff breeze. The GT3 performed notably better across the board. Spin rates were down, ball speeds and efficiency were up, and as such the carry and total distance numbers were significantly superior at 272 and 287 yards respectively. Interestingly, however, if I take my science hat off and think about some of the less quantifiable markers, I found the 975D much easier to shape both ways and as I have already alluded to, I much preferred the feel and acoustics of the older driver.

Conclusion
As a former long-time user of the Titleist 975D, I was seriously looking forward to this particular Retro Review, and I must confess to being slightly disappointed. I was hoping to report that the old classic still had the magic and could absolutely compete with any modern-day equivalent. However, the data is irrefutable. In almost every key parameter the GT3 outperformed it and not by particularly small margins. That said, as always we need to keep perspective here.

I picked up the Titleist 975D for £38.99 from golfclubs4cash, whereas the GT3 in the specification I have, retails for over £700. Furthermore, some of the less measurable parameters such as feel and workability were right out of the top drawer with the 975D. So, if you are a player on a budget, who likes to work the ball a little, and maybe could do with a boost in spin, then a speculative purchase of the 975D could bring you as much fun as it brought me.

Golfers looking for a premium smart watch need to consider the brand new HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate Golf Edition.

Made from ultra-premium materials and craftsmanship, and coming with plenty of innovative and useful features, the Ultimate Golf Edition can help you shoot lower scores by giving you an array of data to strategize your next shot, plan ahead and make informed decisions to play your best.

Play better with the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate Golf Edition

It comes loaded with maps for more than 15,000 golf courses around the world including 3,000 from the UK alone, where you’ll get an optimised 3D course effect that brings clear, panoramic view of the holes’ tees, fairways, bunkers, water, and greens - all brought to life on the stunning 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED vibrant display.

Golfers have access to precise yardages thanks to HUAWEI’s Real-Time Distance Measurement, which gives accurate distances to the front, centre, and back of the green, as well as penalty areas to give you the confidence you need over every shot.

And for even more peace of mind, you have access to the Plays-like Distance functionality to get adjusted numbers for when hitting up-and-downhill, while the watch is also able to tell you the speed and direction of the wind!

Simply search for the course name, download maps from the HUAWEI Health app and pair with your watch to access them when you’re ready to play.

If you’re not sure which club to take, the AI Caddie can help you with your selection and where to aim with an intelligent recommendation based on how far you hit your clubs, the hole position, hazards and terrain. Just add your shot distances for each club in the HUAWEI Health App prior to playing to unlock this handy feature.

The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate Golf Edition can also house all of your scores to help with data analysis, including how many putts you’ve taken in each round. There’s also a Half Scoring Report for mid-round insights if you need help on how to attack the back nine. Plus you can review the trajectory of each strike you made through vivid animation and share it on your social media.

Another feature that can help you play your best is the Driving Range Mode, which detects your backswing time, downswing time, swing tempo, and swing speed during practice sessions to help you find your ideal speed and cadence.

Premium materials

All this tech comes housed in a stunning, premium package that is made with cutting-edge craftsmanship for an elegant and sophisticated look that will stand the test of time.

It’s made from a state-of-the-art Zirconium-based Liquid Metal, renowned for its exceptional strength (4.5x stronger and 2.5x harder than stainless-steel), durability, and luxurious finish, akin to the finest medical-grade devices and luxury watches.

The sophisticated 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display is slim and flexible and offers vibrant visuals and durability to ensure a premium viewing experience in any environment. And the stunning screen is protected by high-strength sapphire crystal glass that is waterproof and wear-resistant.

Adding to the watch's refined aesthetics, the Dual-Colour Nano-Tech Ceramic Bezel showcases advanced ceramic processing techniques, enhancing the watch’s durability and its striking appearance for that luxury look and feel.

It also comes with the industry’s first dual-colour Integrated woven strap. Designed to be exquisite, antibacterial, water-resistant and breathable, a warp and twill weaving technique through the use of over 800 strands of yarn ensures good consistency in yarn organisation and effectively balancing the strap's thickness and softness.

The Golf Edition comes with two additional straps to allow you to wear yours how you choose and pair them with different outfits. As well as the woven strap, you’ll also receive a Deep Green HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber) strap similar to those found in traditional luxury watches as well as a Premium Titanium alloy strap that has twice the durability of stainless steel while being much lighter.

There’s much more on offer aside from golf, with day-to-day smartwatch features as well as innovative diving and hiking modes.

And you don’t have to worry about the battery draining during your round of golf, as the HUAWEI Watch Ultimate Golf Edition comes with a mega 14-day battery life.

Pricing and Availability:

HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate Golf Edition: RRP £749.99

Launch offer: Get free Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3. Offer valid 19/09 – 22/10.

Throughout this series of Retro Reviews, we have looked back at some classic clubs of yesteryear, and now it is the turn of the Odyssey Dual Force Rossie II putter. Released in 1996, this putter was quickly adopted by a large number of top players on the PGA Tour, including Mark Brooks, Annika Sorenstam and Sir Nick Faldo, who had it in the bag for his iconic 1996 Masters victory at the expense of Greg Norman.

WATCH: Joe Ferguson compares the 30-year-old Odyssey Dual Force Rossie II to its modern-day equivalent

Original launch date: 1996
Price we paid: £48.99
Who used it on tour: Nick Faldo, Mark Brooks, Annika Sorenstam

What was the tech?
The Rossie II was a face-balanced putter, with some very prominent alignment aids, using three black lines on the top edge, and a further two in the flange for good measure. A side benefit of this positioning was that matching these lines up helped to ensure your eye positioning was constant. The Rossie II was one of the first putters to use an insert to alter the impact feel, and it used a polymer called Stronomic to do so.

How did it perform?
To see how the Rossie II had stood the test of time, we put it up against the current iteration, the Odyssey Ai ONE Rossie DB, one of the best putters on the market in 2024. Both models were 34 inches and the results were interesting.

Firstly, I wanted to get acquainted with both models so I simply spent half an hour hitting putts of varying lengths taking note of the feel and roll. The quality of impact from the modern-day Ai ONE model was exceptional, and its white-hot insert has been a favorite of mine for some time, but the 30-year-old Rossie II surprised me a little. A touch firmer than the Ai ONE, but genuinely pleasant. Both putters provided a nice pure roll and any difference in forgiveness was negligible.

For a more formal test, I wandered out on the golf course and found a particularly tricky, downhill 70-foot putt. I gave each putter 6 balls and with my trusty tape measure, I calculated the accumulative length away from the hole of the 6 putts with each. The results were something of a surprise with the old Rossie II taking this battle with a 5.3m total to the 5.9m result of the modern-day AI Smoke Rossie. To further investigate the performance, I headed into the 50% make range of the PGA Tour, which is 8 feet. This time I gave both putters ten putts each for a straight shoot-out to see which could hole the most. I started with the Ai ONE once again, and it produced a very creditable 6/10 result. Onto the 30-year-old model. After a stumbling start, the old Rossie II fought back well and actually tied up this particular contest at 6/10 too.

Conclusion
As a former owner of the original Rossie II, I thoroughly enjoyed getting my hands on one again and it didn’t disappoint. Still one of the easiest putters I have used in terms of alignment, and the feel of the Stronomic insert rivals any of today's putters for me. The Ai ONE model definitely had the edge in terms of aesthetics, but ultimately the older model actually performed marginally better in my tests. Truth be told, you would need to do some much lengthier and more extensive tests to give a perfect reflection of performance, but when you consider that I picked up the original for £48.99 and the newer model retails for £289.99, I think it is clear to see that there is plenty of value to be had if you are willing to skip back a few generations.

It may have been a surprising sight watching the head of Rory Mcilroys 9-iron flying down the fairway of the 12th Hole at Wentworth on Thursday, but it happens more than you might think. I can remember a similar instance with a Phil Mickelson iron in a fairway bunker a few years back at the Valero Texas Open on the PGA Tour. Thankfully, on both these occasions, no spectators were in the firing line of these unexpected projectiles.

As a somewhat still active club builder/repairer and PGA Professional, I always see a spike in calls about heads coming loose at around this time of year. Now this could be attributed to simply being the tail end of the playing season and people have been putting their clubs through more vigorous use. But in many cases, I have a hunch it has to do with something else. 

The process of deliberately removing an iron head (or any other head for that matter), involves the use of heat, generally a blow torch or heat gun, to melt the glue holding shaft and head together, breaking the bond and making it easy to simply pull the head off.

When questioning most of the players that call me asking me to fix a head that has come flying off, I tend to find one thing in common. Most of these players leave their clubs in the trunk of their cars for relatively long periods of time. 

So think about the last time you hopped into your car on a hot summer’s day, it’s almost like stepping into an oven, and without the handy use of air conditioning you might step out of the car a solid medium rare at the other end of your journey. Now then, think about your golf clubs sitting in that heat for hours on end, slowly getting hotter and hotter. In fact, if you have ever touched your irons in that scenario, you can physically feel just how hot they are, so is it any wonder that the glue inside the hosel might suffer or weaken?

To be clear here, I am not saying this is what happened to McIlroy, it is far more likely to be down to the force and speed he consistently puts into his shots, but for the general public, this is not an uncommon phenomenon. 

My advice is to make sure you remove your clubs from your car at the earliest opportunity and store them in a nice cool space indoors. It might save you some money and effort, in getting an inconvenient repair, it might also save you the more expensive problem of losing a clubhead if you happen to be hitting over a penalty area at the point of failure. But even more importantly it might save you from injuring a fellow player. In short, don't leave your clubs in the trunk on a hot day! 

Even the world's best ball strikers are constantly looking for an edge in practice, and that certainly looks to be the case with Rory McIlroy ahead of this week's BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.

Rory was spotted using a couple of very interesting training aids during a practice session on Tuesday, which has led to much speculation as to what the devices are, and what the World Number 3 is working on in his golf swing.

Well, let’s end the speculation. The first, and most noticeable device is from UK-based training aid company Sure-Golf, called ‘The Connector’. It is essentially a small molded spongy ball with three short alignment rods protruding from it. The ball is contoured to facilitate the player's forearms, and the alignment rod is designed to give a reference point for arm rotation during the swing. 

The device sits between the forearms at address, with the idea being to ensure that it remains there throughout the golf swing, thus maintaining a constant and correct arm structure, and ensuring the bigger muscles of the body are doing the work. If the arm structure breaks down at all, for example with a ‘flying’ right elbow whereby the right arm separates and gets too far behind the player, the ball will simply drop to the floor giving immediate feedback.

The other interesting facet of The Connector is the alignment rods that protrude from the ball. This gives players a very strong visual reference point of how much their forearms are rotating both on the backswing and through the ball preventing excessive opening or closing of the face. Other training aids from Dan Frost, the founder of Sure-Golf, include the Sure set training aid - one of the best golf gadgets on the market for improving your swing fundamentals.

The other device that McIroy was seen using, interestingly in unison with The Connector, was a device called the Tac-Tic wrist-over-glove golf swing training aid. Many people in the comments section of the DP World Tour Instagram post were speculating that it was the G-Snap training aid from George Gankas which is indeed very similar, however when you blow the image up, it is clear to see the letters ‘TA’ on the wrist attachment strap which leads us to believe it is the Tac-Tic version.

This device is designed to prevent cupping in the left wrist at the top of the backswing by audibly clicking if the rod that sits across the left wrist is put under too much pressure. As Rory can be heard describing to his coach Michael Bannon, he is looking to ensure his left wrist stays flat throughout the backswing rather than occupying a cupped position which generally leads to the clubface being open.

McIlroy is clearly working hard at his game at present and was spotted with a number of other training aids at last week's Irish Open. Aiming to achieve a similar result of improving his arm structure, McIlroy was also seen extensively testing the TRS ball designed by former European Tour player Liam Bond, and the Tour Striker Smart Ball, and Smart Ball Sleeve.

McIlroy fans around the world will be hoping that these training aids can provide him with the edge he needs to get over the line at Wentworth this week at the BMW PGA Championship, where he tees off at 3:45am ET (8:45am BST) in the first round with Justin Rose and defending champion Ryan Fox.