Foresight Sports is widely regarded as one of the leaders when it comes to launch monitor technology, especially the photometric kind which use cameras to capture exactly what the ball and club is doing at and just after impact.

But while they're very good, Foresight Sports launch monitors are also very expensive, which is admittedly justified by the accuracy and reliability. But given the emergence of more affordable launch monitors from a number of different companies, like the $200 Shot Scope LM1 and GolfBuddy Shot Mate, access into the Foresight ecosystem via a more affordable launch monitor was a stumbling block. But that's the problem that the new GC2 aims to solve.

I am old enough to remember using the original GC2, which was undoubtedly ahead of its time and performed well but got passed by fairly rapidly.

This new version comes in at just under £1,700, so not 'cheap' per se but much more affordable than the GC3, the GCQuad, and the GCQuad Max. For that, you are getting trustworthy Foresight technology via a two-camera system that's going to provide the data parameters most golfers need to gain crucial insights on their play. I've been testing it thoroughly over the last few weeks, and my findings are generally very positive.

First of all, it's a smart-looking device. I like the white finish on it. It's relatively compact and surprisingly lightweight at just over 2kg. This makes it easy to carry, helped by the grab handle underneath. It's also incredibly easy to use. Just place it down, turn it on, and you can start hitting shots almost straight away. As long as your ball's in the hitting area (the screen will tell you) you can start hitting.

The screen is a little bit dark actually, especially on the hitting area section and when outdoors, but once you start hitting some shots and the data appears on the screen, the numbers are very easy to read and there are no such problems indoors.

The LCD display is a lot more modern than other launch monitors in the Foresight range. They've clearly thought about enhancing the screen with some colour to make it look more premium and it works.

You can customize the data you view on the display by pairing the GC2 with the Foresight app. Now, it must be said, Foresight has made considerable improvements to the app - it's a fantastic revamp that was much needed. Once you've created an account and paired the GC2 to your app, you can then customize the tiles that appear on the screen of the GC2 depending on what you're interested in.

But the viewing options on the app is what really sets the GC2 experience apart. You can just go to the quick range session, start hitting shots, and ball flights would appear on the screen, which is a lot of fun. But the great thing about pairing the GC2 with the app is the wealth of customization in terms of how you can view and interpret the data.

You can see your dispersion charts, you can view shots flying virtually on the range, which is great if you're hitting into a net and you're not able to see the ball flight. The in-app range experience really brings that to life.

You can obviously see all your shots in table format where you can see your averages, you can compare two different clubs, and you can even set up your phone, whether it's down the line or face on, select the video feature, and then once you hit a shot, you would then be able to correlate a video of your swing in slow-mo with those data points.

This is a really important thing to be able to do if you're making swing changes and you're looking to quantify improvements in, for example, your ball speed, club path or your angle of attack, whatever it might be. Being able to see the movement that caused a positive of negative change in the numbers? That's invaluable.

It's just one of the many features that I absolutely love about the GC2 and how it works in combination with the app. This was a much-needed product from Foresight. It gives you that accurate, reliable data in a much more affordable, accessible way.

It didn't miss a shot during my two testing sessions with a driver, iron and wedge as long as you make sure you get the ball in the hitting area - you're not going to be left frustrated at shots being missed or shots not tracked.

Another point worth making is that the GC2 comes with a 12 Months free Foresight+ Silver with Course Pass, unlocking premium software features, virtual courses and other ways to improve your game. A subscription is required after the trial to continue accessing these membership features, which start from $199 per year.

The GC2 combined with the free Foresight app provides a fantastic experience that will open up the world of data and quantifying performance and swing and club and ball metrics for more golfers. This is only going to help them understand their swing, their game a little bit more, and possibly speed up their improvement. And given how little spare time everyone has these days, this can only be a good thing.

FootJoy's Arcus waterproof jacket comes with some big promises thanks to the brand's innovative TriLock System, which sees three unique performance fabrics fused together to deliver 'complete protection, playing comfort, and full range of motion.'

The Arcus is essentially billed as the ultimate golf rain jacket, and the premium price corresponds to that, so I was excited to give it a test.

Straight away, I was impressed with the fit from the Arcus jacket. I am 5'10 and usually wear a large, and I found it to offer a nice, snug fit. It certainly isn't too tight and I wouldn't describe it as baggy either, so I would recommend going for your usual size.

The jacket has a good amount of stretch to it and the wrist cuffs have velcro adjusters to find your preferred fit. Even without any adjustment they are quite tight and require a second or two extra when taking the jacket off, especially if you wear a watch.

When fully zipped up, the collar section is extremely comfortable on the neck with no sharp edges. I found there to be no rubbing or any pain from anything poking into my neck thanks to what is a very nice shape that has clearly been well thought out.

After writing this, I have seen on the website it is billed as a "lightweight low-profile collar" that "reduces interference during play while maintaining waterproof protection." I fully agree with that and would say FootJoy's designers have done a great job.

There's no adjustable waist drawstring but to be honest I don't think it really needs one as the fit is nice and tight anyway.

The jacket impressively comes with four outer pockets, two for your hands, and two on the chest as opposed to the usual one you'd find with golf rain jackets.

The chest ones in particular are surprisingly large and easily fit a scorecard or a phone. There's also two netted pockets inside for extra peace of mind when the weather takes a turn.

I'm a fan of the styling FootJoy has gone for, and there's two noticeable FJ logos - on the left-collar and one on the back of the neck. There is a lovely embossed FootJoy script on the left wrist section and FJ logos on the zips that are fairly discreet.

My sample is the 'Storm/Black' colorway and there are four to choose from, including all-black, all-navy and an 'Oyster Grey/Mid Blue'. They're all nice, I'd have to say, but if I'm being super critical then I would say the range is missing a red colorway, an all-grey and perhaps a green as well.

FootJoy says the jacket is made with "enhanced durability and lasting protection where it's needed most" in certain areas, and I would say that it feels well made and should last many years. For this price you would certainly hope so and I have seen no signs of damage as of yet thankfully.

It has a very good amount of stretch and is a joy to play golf in, even with a midlayer underneath. It's extremely thin and, while not overly warm on the face of it, it does a good job of keeping the wind away and warmth in.

Overall, there really isn't much to dislike here. It's a very competitive market with good options at a range of prices, but with four outer zip pockets, an extremely comfortable collar area and FootJoy's innovative Tri-Lock build, I think the Arcus stands out among the crowd when it comes to the best golf rain jackets.

It isn't cheap but it will last you years, so it represents good value for money if you're seeking a premium golf rain jacket that delivers in all areas.

For more waterproof gear advice, check out our guides on the best golf rain pants, or best waterproof golf shoes.

I have to confess, I’m a reluctant waterproof jacket wearer. I do nearly anything to avoid wearing one, I just don’t like the feeling of having a jacket on to play golf. They always restrict my swing. I much prefer to wear lots of layers, like a base layer, a warm jumper and a vest in the winter leaving my arms free.

But there comes a point in a round when sometimes you just have to concede defeat and accept that the only way your body is going to stay warm and dry enough to continue in bad weather is to wear some of the best women's golf rain gear.

What a delight it was to discover that I actually didn’t mind wearing the Proquip Paige in the rain, similar to how I felt wearing the Under Armour Drive rain jacket. It’s, really, really lightweight. I love how soft the material is to touch and this makes it super quiet to swing in. None of that irritating rustling noise that many thicker jackets make. The lightweight material doesn’t bag at all, which means that you can roll it up very neatly to fit inside even the smallest pocket of a golf bag, like a pencil bag you might take on holiday.

There are internal toggles that allow you to tighten or loosen the fit around the waist along with side adjuster tabs. This really improved the fit in my opinion, especially on putting, where I sometimes find jackets simply get in the way.

The elasticated cuffs are also really useful for extra adjustability, so you can leave them loose for ease of taking the jacket on and off over your jumper and then tighten them right in to ensure that no rain slips down your inner arm.

The mesh lining that contributes to making this jacket more breathable is a definite plus. I was certainly not aware of ever feeling too hot during play, even hiking up hilly fairways. In fact, if anything, I was a little on the cool side wearing it. The downside of the material being super lightweight is that it isn’t as thick as others I’ve worn previously, nevertheless it does offer excellent wind protection.

My favourite feature of the jacket’s design is the addition of a hood. It’s really big to cover your head and hat and it also has side toggles so that you can tighten it to prevent the wind blowing it down. As a result, I’ve now worn this just as much on the side of the football pitch watching my son play for his school team, as I have on the golf course.

Although the colour choice is limited to navy and black, the addition of bright accent colours on the sides bonnie blue, lime and silver, give a pop of vibrancy to an otherwise dull look, making it just a little more fun. At £120 it really doesn’t break the bank. You’ll certainly get great value out of adding this jacket to your bag.

When your job is testing the latest and greatest golf equipment, capturing accurate data is non-negotiable for compiling the most thorough reviews. For years, Foresight Sports has been the gold standard for elite professionals and fitters alike for capturing club and ball data, but the arrival of the new QuadMax aims to take things up a notch.

I wanted to put it to the test and see if it takes the throne as the best launch monitor on the market.

Foresight Sports has been the technology we trust when conducting our club reviews and putting gear through its paces in the Golf Monthly Performance Lab for a while now, but the addition of the QuadMax launch monitor will really take our written and video reviews to another level thanks to all of the clever technology on offer.

My first impression upon taking the QuadMax out of the box was just how premium it looks and feels. While it utilises the same four-camera photometric capture system that made its predecessor famous, the QuadMax weighs in 15 percent lighter than the GCQuad.

The weight saving alongside a new, wider handle makes the QuadMax extremely easy to carry if you happen to be moving it from the range to the short game area, or you’re carrying it around on the golf course.

It also comes with a very padded and stylish carry case, which is ideal when I’m transporting it from the Performance Lab and the golf course, and it comes with a reflective alignment stick and space to house the charger, balls, and reflective club stickers - yes, these are as fiddly as ever to apply.

Sitting flush on the top of the robust but light device is a touch screen with a few buttons for power and to access the home screen. It’s extremely simple to navigate through menus, adjust settings, and review your numbers with a simple swipe, and the responsiveness is seriously impressive.

This brings me to my absolute favourite new feature on the QuadMax - MyTiles. This functionality allows you to customise exactly which data points are shown on the unit's display, letting you save up to six parameters as personal presets.

If I'm doing a driver review, I can set my tiles to display ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, and carry. If I'm working on my iron striking, I can easily switch my profile to look at angle of attack, club path, and impact location. It’s really simple and easy to change these and having all of this on a clear, visible screen, saves the need for a tablet or phone to connect to when looking at reviewing data.

Foresight has also expanded the data set itself. On top of the impressive ball and club data we are used to seeing, the QuadMax now measures ball apex, descent angle, and ball offline directly on the device.

Having such quick access to this amount of data is invaluable and ideal for those using the device for fittings, coaches trying to help a student golf, or myself and the equipment team at Golf Monthly, when testing new equipment as and when it arrives on our doorstep.

One of my favourite additions on the QuadMax is the new Speed Training mode. As improving club and ball speed continues to not only grow in popularity but also become a necessity (if you compete at a very high level), Foresight has smartly included a dedicated mode that measures your clubhead speed without the need to actually strike a golf ball.

You can use your driver or a dedicated speed training aid by simply applying one of the reflective Foresight dots on your apparatus of choice and swing away. Overspeed and underspeed training is widely respected as a way of improving clubhead speed, and this way you can monitor each and every swing to see your improvement.

At the other end of the bag, you also have a putter function, which allows you to capture data such as launch, skid, time-to-full-roll, and face-to-path. All of which are going to be really useful for me as someone who tests putters and will hopefully give you (the reader) a few metrics which can help you identify which putters may be best for your game.

Finally, I have to mention the battery, because I’ve now completed many serious practice sessions and then taken the QuadMax on the course for 18 holes of on-course data, and the field-swappable battery easily yields 7 to 9 hours of life. While I’d always recommend charging up between uses, the likelihood is you can probably use the device for multiple sessions before worrying about the charge.

All in all, my experience with the QuadMax has been near flawless. Combining the device with the new Foresight Premier+ software, which enables you to see all of your practice data, play courses, and practice under pressure with a whole host of games, It’s clear to see the QuadMax is the pinnacle of launch monitors.

Starting at $19,999, there's no denying it's a sizeable financial investment. But for professionals, dedicated coaches, and serious golfers building the ultimate indoor simulator, you get what you pay for.

Foresight hasn't reinvented the wheel here, but they have taken the most trusted launch monitor in golf and made it even more useful and portable.

In the past few months I have tested a range of Galvin Green products, all of which I was very impressed with, but the Arlo waterproof jacket stole the show.

Over the years, I have donned a range of different products in this category, and while some have been more than acceptable (perhaps even exceptional), this rain jacket is in a league of its own.

You might have expected to read that statement, especially about a brand that specialises in this area and has a very strong reputation within it, but let me explain why I reached that conclusion...

Galvin Green Arlo Waterproof Jacket Review

Let's start with the thing that I believe makes the biggest difference - how it feels to wear.

Brands can bang on about the properties and technology, but if it's uncomfortable... I'm not interested.

The material used for the Arlo waterproof jacket feels super premium, robust and dependable - and it more than delivers on functionality.

I’ve worn this in pretty awful conditions and have never once regretted it. It’s all the ‘proofs’, covering you for wind, rain and worse, but it also feels effortless to wear.

There is no restriction to the swing, like you often experience with cheaper alternatives on the market, which is no small part down to how adjustable the fit is on the Arlo jacket.

There are even front pockets to store your valuables or simply keep those hands warm - essential!

The colour options are great, adding to the classic design and offering something for everyone. If you want to stand out, you’ve got a pop of orange. If you want a more neutral tone, ‘Sand’ is a great way to go.

If I had to be pedantic and pick one small thing to improve, which I really am forcing myself to do, the garment could do a little more to keep you warm.

Good layering solves that problem, so I wouldn’t dwell too much on that, but I do remember feeling a little exposed to the cold when playing in single-figure temperatures in Europe recently.

The price point is towards the top end of the market, but if you can afford it and want to purchase something that should see you through for years to come - I don’t think you could go far wrong with this one.

As someone who has tested a wide array of Under Armour apparel recently, I can say with confidence the Drive Pro Rain Jacket is one of the brand's standout offerings.

There's really very little to criticize too harshly with several positive features and traits to consider.

Right off the bat, I'd say it looks really smart and fashionable, with the Blue Wind colorway I tested probably my stand-out choice alongside the black and midnight navy versions.

I like the contrast between the black zip on the chest and the pastel color of the main body, with the remainder of the jacket just so clean and free of fuss.

Because of the strong yet subtle aesthetics, it's definitely a jacket you can wear proudly both on and off the course. I've used it far more regularly off the course and I don't think it stands out obviously as a golf jacket.

Moving on to another key question you might have about the Under Armour Drive Pro Rain Jacket - does it keep you dry?

The short answer is yes, it's excellent as far as I've seen. Under Armour's Storm technology helps to repel water efficiently while not sacrificing breathability. I found it certainly kept my body dry but you might require more layers underneath than simply a t-shirt and jumper.

Personally, it wasn't as warm as I'd hoped and I'd dispute it being truly windproof. I might call it wind resistant instead. However, this is an issue which could be solved with more layers off the course and perhaps a base layer on it.

The other small factor against it is the lack of hood. I find it frustrating that more golf rain jackets don't include hoods because it clearly reduces the practicality of the product.

Otherwise, though, the fact the side pockets have overlapping layers (plus zips) to stop water creeping in and the wrist cuffs are adjustable means the Drive Pro jacket has plenty more going for it than not.

Continuing on with the positives, it's an incredibly lightweight jacket which is also very easy to fold and store in your golf bag. It was comfortable to wear, too, thanks to the regular fit and four-way stretch which prevented it from feeling too restrictive.

Lastly, because of the price point - which is far away from the top end of the scale when it comes to rain jackets - this is definitely an option I would recommend to any golfers out there.

For more wet weather gear, take a look at our buying guides on the best golf rain gear, best waterproof golf bags, and best waterproof golf shoes.

The FootJoy winter boot is a striking navy blue, very unlike the usual offerings of winter boots except when you venture across to the Italian side of Duca Del Cosma. I love the rather bolder look of FootJoy’s winter offering and will be donning these at every given opportunity.

The almost mathematical design of the upper membrane is really sporty and reminds me of high-end hiking boots you’d wear for taking on the highest of peaks in the bleakest of conditions whilst still looking snazzy.

The lacing system needs attention to loosen enough for your foot to actually get in, as with any of the best golf boots, but once on they feel like an extension of your foot. The laces are sponge-like and comfortable to handle and they are so easy to do up, plus they stay done up!

This boot is really stable, as well as waterproof, yet it feels like a summer trail shoe. The material is airy and my feet are supported as much as they need to be without the main body of the shoe feeling too stiff.

Many golf boots can feel heavy as you walk making for tired legs at the end of the round. The comfort levels in these are no different to some of the best women’s golf shoes.

They are definitely less weighty than previous models and certainly have an edge over the Adidas S2G Rain.RDY winter shoe. Each boot weighs only 350g, that is only 50g more than a FootJoy Quantum golf shoe.

Lightweight is key, but in a golf boot I do like to feel it is supporting my foot and ankle in what can be slippery winter conditions. The sole is sturdy with SoftSpikes Pulsar which can be replaced for even greater traction with the Tour Flex Pro spike.

Being able to replace these spikes definitely lengthens the boots’ lifespan. The traction I gain from these is second to none and I won’t play winter golf without spikes on the soles of my feet.

Cushioning in both the sole and ankle lining with plush thermal insulation adds to their comfort. The material is lightweight yet insulated so keeping you cosy around the ankle and offering an almost slipper-esque feel. The bounce you experience when wearing these is thanks to the high-density molded EVA FitBed delivering great support.

These boots were even comfortable in unexpected higher temperatures on a fairly sunny winter day when I first tested them. I worried I’d get too warm and sticky in the soles of my feet but the Thinsulate material managed to regulate and maintain optimum temperature.

Something Footjoy boots have always managed to do is keep my feet warm in minus conditions. These boots don’t boast the furry lining of models gone by in the Footjoy range, but I feel the modern materials and smarter Thinsulate technology will more than exceed my expectations once temperatures dip below zero.

The performance in wet conditions is fantastic, though on first glance you’d question how waterproof these are. They look more breathable than waterproof, but mark my words, I’ve tested a few fairly deep puddles and remained bone dry in the sock department. With a 1-year warranty you can push these to the brink and still keep your toes warm and dry for the entire round.

Available in a slightly disappointing range of sizes from 5-8. I would have loved to have seen a wider range of sizing. Those with dinky feet (and juniors) will miss out, that's for sure. They only offer wide as an option, though my narrow feet found my usual size in FJ (5.5) were perfect. I’d recommend trying these on in your usual size and one half size up, especially if you prefer a thicker sock.

These are a striking golf boot that will have heads turning and keep your feet cosy and dry whether you’re playing in frost or rain. A great addition to any winter wardrobe.

When golfers speak of Miura, the conversation inevitably turns to legendary Japanese craftsmanship, the famed Himeji forging house, and an unparalleled standard of quality.

However, evaluating an entire lineup requires more than just acknowledging the brand's prestige. It requires a meticulous look at the nuances in geometry, material, turf interaction, and the subjective feel that separates one masterpiece from another.

With limited previous experience with Miura and having recently been supplied the full range to test, I wanted to put together this article to clarify where each model sits in relation to one another within the very comprehensive family, and just what type of player should be looking at which models.

So without further ado, here is my interpretation and findings of the current Miura iron family…

Miura MB-101

Overview:

A pure, minimal blade in every sense of the word.

Design & Technology:

The Miura MB-101 potentially stands as the ultimate testament to traditional clubmaking, representing the benchmark that all other traditionally manufactured blades aspire to.

This iron is a purist's dream, relying purely on impeccable mass distribution and material quality rather than any modern multi-material gimmicks.

Aesthetics

Visually, from the back, it is simply as good as it gets in the golf equipment world.

The MB-101 is pure, minimal, and beautifully finished, with the traditional Miura logo elegantly signalling high quality right from the off. When you set it down behind the ball, the MB-101 makes a very specific promise. If you are a fan of a boxy, angular blade with minimal offset and a razor-thin topline, this profile will be right up your street.

It frames the ball with a sharp, no-nonsense intent.

Feel & Performance

When it comes to performance, there are essentially no notes required other than this: it is absolute butter.

In terms of strike, this is about as pure a blade experience as you can get. Predictably, there is very little forgiveness on off-centre hits, but that is entirely beside the point of this golf club.

Where this iron truly lives is in the pure joy of a centred strike. When you find the middle of the face, the ball genuinely feels like it’s melting into the steel, providing the ultimate sensory feedback and absolute pleasure to use.

Turf Interaction

Through the impact zone, the MB-101 features a very thin sole that cuts through the turf sharply and efficiently. However, it requires precision. If you are a player with a steeper delivery and a pronounced negative angle of attack, you may find this specific geometry a little ‘diggy’ as I did.

To my mind, it would perform best for those with shallower angles of attack who want to nip the ball off the turf.

Miura KM-700

Overview -

Another blade, but a little more of an extrovert with eye-catching visual features and some additional CG features to help square the blade.

Design & Technology

The KM-700 is a masterclass in modern blade engineering, forged from Miura's signature premium S20C Soft Carbon Steel.

Its defining technological feature is the hosel and heel design intended to optimize the center of gravity to enhance playability without sacrificing workability.

This is a blade so meticulously crafted that it has found its way into the bags of elite ball-strikers like Adam Scott on the PGA Tour.

Aesthetics

This is probably the most eye-catching iron of the entire range from the back. It features a highly complex and interesting topography, utilizing a few subtle ledges and varying thicknesses in the back cavity to manipulate weight.

The traditional Miura logo sits proudly on the bottom toe and is accompanied by the iconic red Hanko stamp on the bottom right-hand half of the back - a mark signifying the personal approval of the late Miura-san himself. It is incredibly striking in the bag.

At address, if the MB-101 is a boxy shape, the KM-700 is boxy on steroids.

The 7-iron, for example, almost looks like a perfect rectangle behind the ball. While that sounds unorthodox and wasn’t necessarily to my tastes, I actually found it incredibly useful in terms of visually lining up to target and framing the golf ball perfectly parallel to the intended start line.

Feel & Performance

The feel is nothing short of exceptional, offering the dense, forged sensation Miura is famous for, but with a center of gravity that feels noticeably more balanced throughout the swing.

The clubhead somehow felt as though it wanted to square up naturally, providing a highly stable impact dynamic that yielded a remarkably consistent ball flight for me.

Turf Interaction

A standout feature of the KM-700 is the distinct cutout toe section on the sole. While it acts as an interesting aesthetic quirk and I’m not entirely sure what exact function it serves mechanically, the proof is in the pudding: turf interaction was excellent.

It glides through the ground with a beautiful neutrality, managing to avoid getting snagged even on slightly heavy strikes.

Miura MC-502

Overview

A muscle cavity, offering a much softer, more rounded shape and a touch more forgiveness than the MB-101 and KM-700.

Design & Technology

The MC-502 had some incredibly big boots to fill, following on directly from Miura's best-selling iron of all time, the MC-501.

Forged from S20C soft carbon steel, this design places a little bit of extra mass behind the direct center of strike while hollowing out the upper portions, creating significantly more shaping and wider weight distribution than a traditional blade like the MB-101.

Aesthetics

As someone who prefers a slightly rounder and softer look in their irons, this was comfortably my favorite of the entire range from a profile position. The slightly rounded toe section softens the overall look of the head when set behind the ball, blending elegance with a player's profile.

A welcome refinement over its predecessor is the reduced offset. As someone who actively seeks out soft, curved edges combined with minimal offset on their irons, it is easy to see why the MC-502 visually stole the show for me.

Feel & Performance

Because of the Muscle Cavity design, the MC-502 manages to perfectly straddle the line between a pure blade and a player's cavity back. The mass directly behind the hitting zone ensures the strike feels incredibly dense and powerful, but the peripheral shaping provides just enough stability to save a slight mishit from being entirely punished.

It delivers a penetrating flight that better players will love, and I found it effortless to manipulate ball flight up and down on command. This was a real standout for me personally.

Turf Interaction

The sole geometry is where this iron separated itself for my specific swing.

As a slightly steeper delivery player, the fairly dramatic leading edge grind and bevelling on the MC-502 was extremely beneficial. It was noticeably smoother through the turf for me than any of the other models I tested, actively preventing the leading edge from digging into the ground and ensuring the club maintained its speed through impact.

Miura TC-202

Overview

Still very much a ‘better player’ iron, the TC-202 begins to offer more pronounced perimeter weighting to promote a little more forgiveness across the face.

Design & Technology

The TC-202 (Tour Cavity) is a forged player's cavity back that incorporates highly deliberate mass manipulation. It utilizes a variable-depth cavity through Miura's "T-Weight" design, which pushes weight toward the perimeters while maintaining enough mass behind the sweet spot to offer the signature Miura contact feel.

It is engineered for the lower-handicap player who wants to blend traditional forged feel with noticeable mechanical assistance.

Aesthetics

From the back, the TC-202 presents a really interesting look. It features a nice, clear cavity with plenty of subtle shaping and notches that immediately make you realize the CG location and weight distribution have been meticulously thought about.

From a profile point of view at address, it is a touch longer from heel to toe than the bladed options of the family, as you would expect. It presents a mid-boxy profile behind the ball and is the first iron in the lineup where a little bit more noticeable offset starts to creep in to my eye.

Feel & Performance

Thanks to the perimeter weighting, the TC-202 was demonstrably more forgiving off-center than its bladed siblings.

While it is tough to quantify exact forgiveness metrics, as all poor strikes are not born equal, the ball speed retention was evident. On well-struck shots, I was seeing around 2-3 yards of extra carry from this iron versus the MB-101, KM-700, and even the MC-502, all while the rest of the launch conditions (spin and apex) remained much the same.

Turf Interaction

The sole design of the TC-202 is an interesting hybrid. It has a touch of leading-edge relief, but not quite as much as the aggressively bevelled MC-502. Consequently, it performs a little bit more like the MB-101 through the turf.

It doesn't offer as much bounce or skid, making it absolutely perfect for a "picker" of the golf ball who sweeps it off the turf with a shallower angle of attack.

Miura CB-302

Overview

A pure, forged cavity back.

Design & Technology

The CB-302 represents the point in the Miura lineup where you transition into very visible player assistance. This is a true forged Cavity Back constructed from premium S20C carbon steel, but it is defined by its footprint: it features the widest sole in Miura's storied history.

It is engineered to offer maximum forgiveness and ease of use while still retaining the premium forging process the brand is known for.

Aesthetics

Behind the ball, the blade length starts to noticeably increase a little again from the TC-202, the top line gets a little bit thicker, and you are presented with an overall slightly friendlier look.

With this larger sizing comes a bit more offset. I actually struggled to line this one up as well as others in the range because I’ve never blended well with the appearance of heavier offset - it just didn’t create a straight enough line arrangement for my eye.

However, if you are in the Bernhard Langer camp of offset fandom, this visual profile will be incredibly familiar, comforting, and appealing.

Feel & Performance

The CB-302 is substantially less demanding from a strike perspective than the blades in the lineup. With the CG being pushed lower by the mass and width of the sole, it is obviously a little easier to launch, getting the ball up in the air quickly with a high, towering trajectory.

Despite the larger footprint, it still retains a very satisfying forged feel at impact, ensuring you don't lose that sensory connection to the golf ball that you are paying a premium for.

Turf Interaction

Where the CB-302 shines brightest for me is in its ground dynamics. The significant sole width combined with clever camber geometry makes this iron incredibly user-friendly and flattering through the turf. It seemed to shrug off any slightly heavy strikes with total ease, acting like a ski to carry the clubhead on through the ball without twisting or digging.

Miura PI-402

Overview

A multi-material, partially hollow cavity iron, designed for speed and launch.

Design & Technology

The PI-402 is where Miura introduces significant modern technology to its timeless designs. Moving away from a single-piece forging, this iron features a multi-material construction combining a cast frame with a high-strength chromoly steel face insert.

This design aims to maximize ball speed and face flex for golfers looking for a true performance and distance boost without sacrificing too much feel.

Aesthetics

From the back, this is the first point of the range that you really start to see some visible tech on show to help the player, featuring an embossed badge in the cavity and a visible toe screw. While some traditionalists might argue it doesn’t necessarily look like a "classic" Miura, the overall execution is still very, very classy and unmistakably high-quality.

At address, this is probably the most rounded head of the entire range. The toe section is extremely friendly and curved; it has a decently long blade length, and what offset there is has been disguised incredibly well through clever transitions.

Feel & Performance

Immediately upon striking the PI-402, you notice a significantly higher launch angle that is incredibly easy to come by, along with a real sense of power.

Despite the multi-material construction and chromoly face, Miura has managed to maintain a fairly classic, soft feel. However, there are definitely signs of life; there is a distinct sense of 'zing' and explosive ball speed off the face that you simply don't get from the traditional solid-forged blades in the lineup.

Turf Interaction

Turf interaction is absolutely superb on this iron, utilizing a pronounced 'V sole' which Miura refers to as its Kissaki sole.

Not dissimilar to the Tour VT Sole from Srixon, this leading-edge and bounce geometry makes the club extremely forgiving and versatile in terms of its ground interaction, gliding effortlessly through various lies and turf conditions.

Miura IC-602

Overview

A hollow-bodied, forgiving distance iron.

Design & Technology

Moving up to the IC-602 (Inner Cavity), you begin to see Miura stepping a little bit further outside of their expected traditions to compete in the modern hollow-body distance iron category.

The construction features an 8620 soft carbon steel body fused with a thin, fast Chrome Molybdenum (Chromoly) face in the 3 through 9 irons. It is designed to offer maximum distance and forgiveness inside a clean, player-preferred package.

Aesthetics

In terms of looks, it is a bit of a departure from what many will expect from the brand.

Personally, I don’t necessarily love the blend of finishes in the back section, combining chrome and brushed steel; I would’ve picked one or the other for a more cohesive look. There is also a strange little cavity notch on the back heel section that presumably serves a weighting function, but doesn’t do much to add to the aesthetic.

However, once you put it behind the ball, all is forgiven.

This is easily one of the better-looking game-improvement or hollow-body distance irons you’ll ever see from the playing position. It features a sparing use of offset, a nice thick top line, plenty of blade length, and just beautifully balanced proportions for an iron of its type.

Feel & Performance

Performance on the golf course was remarkably strong. It produces a very powerful, penetrating ball flight, but importantly remained very consistent with no ‘jumpy’ strikes or outliers whatsoever.

Interestingly, I noticed a very pronounced and consistent left bias (draw bias) to my flight despite these being built to the exact same specs as all the other models I tested.

If a player struggles with a right miss with their irons, it feels like there’s some inherent mechanical help built into the IC-602 to straighten that out, which could be an added bonus to some.

Turf Interaction & Sound

A major pitfall of hollow-body irons is often a harsh, clicky sound. The feel of the IC-602 compared to some of its hollow-bodied rivals is almost unfair.

It is solid, incredibly responsive, and has absolutely no sense of clickiness whatsoever. The wider sole interacts wonderfully with the turf, creating an iron that is blisteringly fast, highly forgiving, and yet deeply satisfying to hit.

Although hybrids are becoming less popular on the professional circuits, they're still very useful clubs to have in the bag for us amateurs, as proven by the Srixon ZXi RKT I have been testing recently.

In the past, I've used a hybrid and, although there isn't one in my bag right now, I was excited to test the new ZXi RKT out, especially as Srixon has implemented some new technology on the club for the very first time.

The main technology story surrounds the introduction of an Adjustable Sole Weight and Adjustable Hosel Sleeve, which are designed to work together to help with the gapping, ball flight and distance output.

Ranging from a 17° head, which is the equivalent of a 2-iron, all the way to a 28° head that sits around the 6-iron number, there is plenty of variety to suit a number of golfers, especially as the range covers the higher section of the bag where most struggle.

That brings me to the first positive, and that's the overall performance of the ZXi RKT which was exceptional.

Hybrids are designed to be easy to launch with plenty of power and I can report that this hybrid delivers that in abundance, as the Rebound Frame utilizes two flex zones to produce a really strong feel off the face that has a high towering flight, even on off-center strikes.

What I liked is that you can manipulate the shot shape of the ZXi RKT but, one slight negative is that I found it can be difficult to lower the flight, due to the fact that this club only wants to get airborne.

This isn't a negative as such, as the caliber of player likely to use this club will want the high launch characteristics. What I am saying is, that when a lower shot is required, like into the wind, models like the TaylorMade Qi4D perform slightly better.

Back to the ZXi RKT, though, and it possesses Variable Roll Design, which is one of the reasons for the ease of shot shaping, while the same RKT Face that's found in Srixon's ZXi RKT drivers and fairway woods does a great job of transferring energy to create speed and accuracy from a variety of lies.

In fact, this was arguably the main stand out of the hybrid, the performance from not just the tee and fairway, but also the rough and even low-lipped bunkers.

Srixon has crammed the hybrid full of technology and, thanks to its loft configuration and the i-Flex thickness of the face, the hybrid was able to cut through the turf with ease.

Having the ability to create a divot at impact with the power available meant I was still able to produce plenty of height from the juiciest of lies in the rough.

There didn't appear to be much sacrifice on distance either, as I was still gaining good yardage and certainly more than if I were to use my current 5-iron of the same loft from the same lies.

Performance-wise, there's a lot going for the Srixon ZXi RKT hybrid and, in terms of looks, the minimalist design is sure to appeal to a number of players.

Unlike the Callaway Quantum hybrid, which has a more reflective crown, the ZXi RKT has a more matte-style look which is very premium. What's more, at address, there's a minimal amount of offset and a significant amount of loft on show, which helps build confidence that you can get the ball in the air and online at impact.

The addition of a simple 'S' on the crown helps with alignment and, with the slightly more compact look from head-to-toe, it makes the ball stand out as you prepare to hit your shot.

Srixon has focused on Tour-Driven Shaping and, for me, it's certainly worked well, as the rounded, streamlined shape visually hits all the right notes for me.

One slight negative I have, though, is the wear damage on the face. After just a day of testing, notable scratches had started to appear which, although they didn't affect performance, were still surprising as I had only used the club for a short period of time.

Overall, there's a lot to like about the Srixon ZXi RKT and, with the brand introducing more adaptability via the loft sleeve and weighting, it's certainly a viable option for the top end of the golf bag.

Priced around the same as TaylorMade's Qi4D and Callaway's Quantum models, the looks, performance and value rival the best hybrid golf clubs and tick a lot of the right boxes.

Sun Mountain may be best known for golf bags but in 2026 we have tested a lot of golf apparel from the brand and if you need more polos, midlayers, hoodies and outerwear, it should definitely be a brand to consider. Based on our testing, rain jackets certainly continue that theme as well. Having already tested the value-friendly Monsoon rain jacket I figured it was time to test out the top of the range rain jacket from the brand, the Cirque II.

Right away I absolutely loved the unique Dark Feldspar colorway I got to test and there are a couple more in black and navy to go for as well. For me the overall look is subtle, versatile, and keeps things simple which is what I’m mostly looking for in a rain jacket. I don’t need it to have a super fancy, unique aesthetic, I need it to look good on and off the golf course and this certainly achieves that. In fact I would say I’ve used this jacket more off the course on walks and in ever-changing weather conditions, more than on it.

Speaking of weather, the waterproofing and protection from the Cirque II is outstanding. It has a seam-sealed waterproof and windproof construction, with the fabric getting a 20K/30K waterproof and breathability rating. This 20K number means this jacket can withstand 20,000 millimetres of water pressure through the fabric, whilst the 30K relates to the elite-level sweat evaporation so heat and sweat can escape quickly. Of course in my testing this is hard to quantify myself but all I can say is the rain protection was top-notch and at no point did I feel too hot which can often be the case with rain jackets. Obviously the waterproof zippers further ensure no water can penetrate these areas as well.

I found this jacket also to be lightweight and comfortable, with there being a number of smaller design features I really liked. First the ability to adjust the cuffs and hem are a no-brainer on all good rain jackets these days, whilst I liked the internal hidden chest pocket, and the reflective logos were a nice touch.

The final point I wanted to mention on the fabric is the outer shell didn’t have that plastic-y feel which can be a common problem for rain jacket materials, so I wanted to acknowledge that. That being said during swings it can often make a bit of a rustling sound which some may not like, but it did not hinder my enjoyment using this jacket at all.

Overall I think Sun Mountain continues to show how good their products are, and no longer should people think it only makes high-quality golf bags. This is because from my testing, the Cirque II and other pieces of apparel certainly deliver high performance as well.

For more wet weather gear, take a look at our buying guides on the best golf rain gear, best waterproof golf bags, and best waterproof golf shoes.

The materials used in golf equipment have changed massively over the last few years. Brands are looking to develop and use previously unused materials to not only make clubs but also other golf equipment. One case in point is Sun Mountain’s Matchplay Ballistic bag I got to test here.

It is constructed with a ballistic nylon which is a material originally engineered for military use, and as such it immediately became apparent to me how durable and sturdy this bag is. It has a textured, seemingly rough feel to it on the hands but the strength of the fabric means it can deal with abrasions and general wear and tear easily, whilst it also has a DWR finish (durable water repellent) coating so it can deal with changing weather conditions nicely as well. I must admit though it isn’t fully waterproof, but water-resistant so that is something to keep in mind. (Check our best waterproof golf bags guide to see the top models in terms of protection.)

The overall construction of this bag was something I was very impressed with. Not only did this ballistic nylon fabric feel high-quality and well put together, but a number of other elements really elevated the design. For example the leather strips covering the two large zip pockets is a nice feature, and the lovely soft cushioned material that makes up the dividers and on the section that sits against your back is outstanding and really gives off a premium feel. The zips themselves feel heavy duty and strong as well. In short this is one of the best golf bags I’ve tested from a construction and durability point of view.

I found the dual strap system comfortable and easy to adjust. It isn’t made from the softest materials or padding around but it does the job. Whereas I was very happy with the stand design. One of my pet hates with stand bags are stands that don’t go out far or wide enough, or too far which therefore creates an unbalanced platform. But here I thought the stand was ideal - good length and width, and the angle of the bag was ideal. No more notes needed and it is one of the best stand bags I've tested of late.

Clearly Sun Mountain has really thought about every element in the design of this bag, not only nailing the larger factors as mentioned above, but also all the smaller elements which add up to make a high-quality bag. It comes in both four-way and 14-way configurations (I tested the former), and one of the best design features was the internal compression bottom which helped keep clubs separated, and therefore easy to access. It sounds like such a small thing but there is nothing more annoying when clubs get snagged up in the bag. Elsewhere it comes with eight pockets which are all reasonably sized and easy to access. My personal favorite was the snow-fur lined rangefinder pocket as it feels lovely and the magnetic closure is well designed.

From a looks perspective I was initially worried about the ballistic nylon giving it a rugged look, but I think Sun Mountain has managed to design a bag that really gives off a premium aesthetic. It comes in five nice colors and importantly Sun Mountain hasn’t put a load of text or their logo all over the bag like other brands do. Instead there are just subtle nods with the ‘SM’ featuring alongside a triangle and circle on a couple of areas on the bag. They’ve even written the name of the bag in very small text by the valuables pocket, which shows a level of restraint and confidence I wish other brands would show.

Finally, the two cons I should mention are thus. The price is at the top end of the spectrum, but as my testing showed, the money is arguably worth it here. When you feel the quality of the fabrics and materials used, along with the durability and how many years of use you will get out of this bag, the cost becomes easier to rationalize.

Additionally I should note this is a heavier model compared to others on the stand bag market. When empty it weighs 5.4lbs, but then again this is the trade-off you make for a highly durable bag with premium materials used throughout the design. As such this is not a deal-breaker for me and yet it does mean it comes oh so close to getting the full five stars, but not quite.

A couple of years ago I got to review the Conqueror Jacket from Zero Restriction and it performed outstandingly well to the point where it came oh so close to getting a five star review. Well imagine my excitement when the brand new Conquistador turned up on my doorstep, which appears to be the Conqueror's replacement. Heading into the unpredictable Autumn/Winter season of golf, I was very much looking forward to putting this new model through its paces…

Starting with the aesthetic, I think it looks great. Zero Restriction has seemingly taken the previous jacket and improved on it with small color choices in specific areas, (like the zips), and chiefly, made this new model with a full zip instead of a half zip. That makes the Conquistador way easier to put on or take off. As a whole the jacket has versatility in its design, to the point where I felt I could use this jacket as much, if not more, off the course than on it. It really blends well everywhere, especially in the green finish I tested here. Speaking of which there may be only two colors right now (Blue Indigo/Racing Green), but I wouldn’t be surprised to see more down the line given how popular I foresee this jacket being.

Moving on to arguably the most important facet to the best golf rain jackets, the waterproofing. As per usual Zero Restriction has nailed this element, in fact I would argue this new jacket is as good as it gets in this part of the market. Thanks to everything being seam-sealed, waterproof zips, and the multi-layer construction, water couldn’t get to my body in testing and it just ran off the fabric nicely. The hood is always a welcome addition on golf rain jackets as it offered that little bit more protection and with the shapeable, memory wire brim, I could create and adjust that custom fit I wanted as well. Speaking of adjustability, I could make changes to the cuffs, hem and the hood itself thanks to drawcords and tab closures which were welcome design flourishes.

Admittedly it is not the lightest of rain jackets when compared to others on the market but by no means is it heavy. I could move seamlessly in it and felt comfortable throughout my testing, at no point feeling unrestricted or cumbersome by its design. It gave a reasonable amount of stretch as well.

Finally coming to the price, I will not beat around the bush here, it is at the premium end of the rain jacket price spectrum. But I would still argue at performance of this level, and the fact you can use it anywhere and everywhere arguably makes it worth it. It is the kind of jacket you can use for years and years, and it will continue to deliver.

For more wet weather buying advice be sure to have a read of our guides on the best golf rain pants, best rain gloves, or best golf hoodies.

It’s fair to say that Takomo has built quite a reputation for itself since the direct-to-consumer Finnish brand was founded in 2021. Through clever influencer and social media marketing, it has built a large fan base in the industry, especially among golfers who want solid performance without breaking the bank.

When I heard Takomo was entering the putter category for the first time with the Lumo M1, I couldn't wait to get my hands on one and see whether this direct-to-consumer brand's quality extends to the flatstick.

Rather than just churning out generic shapes that resemble some of the best putters on the market, Takomo has leant into creating distinct models using technology and design know-how thanks to Finnish putter specialist Otso Golf.

The result is the Lumo M1 I took out to test, a mid-sized mallet putter that promises extra stability on off-center strikes. For blade lovers, there is also the B1 model, but it’s the M1 that I believe will gain most traction from the brand's maiden putter series.

Straight out of the box, the Lumo M1 putter boasts a simple, yet intriguing aesthetic. It treads a fine line between a premium and unfinished look, but I think the satin steel finish just tips the scales firmly towards the premium end. I would like to see a custom option on the website to add some paint fill and increase the alignment assistance.

It does, however, maintain the clean, understated aesthetic that I love, and is evident throughout Takomo's wider equipment lineup.

Sat behind the ball, the mid-mallet profile really suited my eye, and the shape delivers on its promise to add confidence over the ball. The sloped angular look on the back of the head draws the eye directly to the center of the putter, where a singular alignment line runs throughout the flange.

As someone who tests putters regularly, feel is everything to me, and I think the feel off the face of the Lumo M1 is superb. The putter features a milled 303 stainless steel face with a mid-depth groove design, which naturally produces a soft feel through impact, while providing enough feedback to help with distance control.

The grooves on the face dealt with moisture and debris on the greens particularly well and got the ball rolling nicely straight off the face without too much speed. My pace control from range was exceptional, due to a little audible 'click' that this putter produced.

As you may have now noticed from the pictures of the Lumo M1 putter, it has been designed as a low-torque putter, with a center-of-gravity-balanced head. The design is heavily focused on providing greater stability through the stroke. While this did run true during my testing, it’s a look that takes some getting used to due to its heel-shafted design.

Taking it out on the course, I felt like the face naturally wanted to stay square to the path, which is exactly what zero torque putters should want to do. I could just rely on my larger muscles, rock my shoulders, and trust my line. I also noticed that on my slight mishits, the M1 provided a decent level of forgiveness considering the size of the head, but not quite as much as other zero torque or lie angle balanced models such as the Odyssey S2S Tri-Hot range or the L.A.B. Golf DF3i respectively.

The putter is fitted with a premium KBS CT Tour single-bend shaft, which is available in chrome or matte black, and comes equipped with a Takomo Edition SuperStroke 2.0 PT grip. This is something that impressed me, given that a lot of manufacturers overlook the importance of a reliable stock putter grip.

The Lumo M1 putters come with a stylish textile headcover featuring a magnetic closure and a paracord attachment loop, although, personally, I think a leather headcover or something a little more sturdy would have been better.

The M1 is available in 33, 34, and 35 inches, with head weights matched accordingly at 362g, 357g, and 352g. In terms of setup specs, it features 3° of loft, a 70° lie, and 14mm of onset.

At just £199 for the satin steel finish and £219 for the DLC black, Takomo is offering serious direct-to-consumer performance. If you are looking for a low-torque putter that delivers stability, superb feel, and a refined aesthetic at a more affordable price range, then the Takomo Lumo M1 is an intriguing option.

Accra has long established itself in the premium custom shaft market, offering precision-engineered products that cater to the exacting needs of elite club fitters.

Its Tour Z line is built on 15 years of success on professional tours, promising unparalleled stability without sacrificing player feedback. I recently put both the Tour Z Red and Tour Z Green profiles through their paces to see if their on-course performance matched the premium billing.

Accra Tour Z Shaft Review: How We Test Shafts

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

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

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

Accra Tour Z Shafts Review: Technology

Both the Tour Z Red and Green models utilize premium high-modulus materials to ensure enhanced stability from the butt section all the way down to the tip.

The Red is billed as the lowest-launching and lowest-spinning model in the line, explicitly designed for players with quick transitions who are seeking ultimate control.

The Green is engineered as a slightly higher-launching counterpart while still maintaining a tour-caliber, low-spin profile.

What I absolutely love about Accra’s approach is the integration of its DyMatch technology. Rather than requiring club builders to extensively tip-cut a driver shaft to make it usable in a 3-wood, Accra manufactures dedicated, dynamically matched fairway wood shafts. This ensures the exact feel and performance profile translate perfectly as you move down your bag.

This doesn’t end at fairway woods either; there are dedicated offerings for both hybrids and utility irons, which is a somewhat unique but very clever offering.

Accra Tour Z Shafts Review: Performance

During my testing, the Red profile emerged as one of the most 'together' shafts I have ever tested.

Sometimes, to me, it feels as though different sections of a shaft can work in very different ways - stout sections competing harshly with softer sections, for example. However, the overriding feel I got from the Red was that all sections were working in complete unison, and the result was a delightfully smooth feel for a shaft touted as 'low launch/spin', which is a category so often littered with 'boardy', non-responsive pokers.

The quality of manufacturing was abundantly clear from the consistency of my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor data, yielding very little fluctuation in spin rates and a pleasingly tight down-range dispersion. Honestly, both the Red and Green profiles staked an immediate claim for a place in my bag.

In terms of the Green, it was really just more of the same. I was expecting a more notably different feel out of this supposedly slightly higher-launching profile, but I really had to dig down into the minutiae to pick out any differences. I'm not sure if that is a good or bad thing - I am used to more obviously different feels between profiles - but I was so enamoured with my initial testing of the Red that I wasn't bothered at all.

When you really concentrate, you can sense just a fraction more play in the Green, although due to the exceptional balance they offer, I couldn't pinpoint exactly where. Dispersion remained reassuringly tight, but I was expecting maybe a little more difference in my data, though as always, that is highly player-dependent.

Sometimes, when dropping into more of a ‘mid’ profile shaft, along with the slight extra feel comes a sense of needing to babysit it a little more through impact than the tighter profiles of the black options from Fujikura or white from Mitsubishi, for example, but not so here. The feel is beautifully complemented by reassuring stability.

As hoped, the fairway versions of both profiles performed beautifully for me too, feeling extremely comfortable to move, without feeling in any way weak or lacking heft.

Accra Tour Z Shafts Review: Verdict

If you are someone delving into the aftermarket shaft world for the first time, the Tour Z range is a brilliant place to start. I would say, along with the Tour-proven levels of manufacturing quality, this might be the ultimate centre point of feel versus stability.

Both shafts offer a wonderfully crafted, highly consistent midpoint of comfort and performance to pivot off if you are ever looking for anything more niche or specific than a balanced, high-quality feel.

Personally, I might well not be pivoting anywhere!

If you are a golfer who swings for the fences with zero tolerance for a shaft failing to keep up with your efforts, you may have just found your holy grail.

How We Test Shafts

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

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

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

Testing Results

Following on from the extremely popular HZRDUS franchise, the bar for stability and performance was set extremely high. But fear not, the new Project X Titan Black is an absolute monster, looking set to be among the best driver shafts for the faster swingers.

Starting with the looks, some might describe its aesthetic as boring, but I absolutely loved it. As an "all or nothing" kind of guy, I appreciate when a brand commits hard to a theme. Project X certainly did that here: it is black on black on black, looking wonderfully stealthy and mean.

The only splash of contrast is the soft white of the TITAN logo, which pops beautifully against the dark backdrop.

Another advantage of this colour choice is that it pairs well with absolutely any head and grip combination! A small win, but a win all the same.

Diving into the technology, Project X touts its new 'Advanced EI Curve Design', which supposedly features a more elastic handle section that progressively firms up through the mid and tip sections. It also highlights Synex Technology, a multi-axial carbon fiber matrix that reinforces the shaft’s outer structure to increase hoop stiffness and maximize energy transfer.

However, as soon as I waggled this club - I tested the 6.5 flex 60 in my driver and the 6.5 flex 70 in my 3-wood - it was very apparent I was in over my head.

Despite the technical claims of handle elasticity, I certainly couldn't feel it! Even as a consistent 118-120 mph swinger with a mid-to-brisk tempo, this shaft felt uncompromisingly stout to me.

Taking my first full swings, the overall sensation was one of sheer, unfiltered heft. The stability on display here is honestly like nothing else I have ever felt.

When I finally moved it at peak speed, I could detect the merest hint of play under the handle, but this was immediately smacked back into line by one of the tightest, most rigid mid and tip sections I have ever tested. The profile just gets firmer and firmer as you head towards the head of the club.

In fact, I personally struggled to get the shaft "activated" at all. I was left working my hands extremely hard just to try to get the clubhead to catch up to the ball.

Somewhat unbelievably, the 6.5 (X Flex) that I tested isn't even the stoutest offering either! There is a TX flex which sits above that. I shudder to think...

The wider Titan family is just as intriguing.

For players who like the idea of this profile but want to play a heavier head, a longer build, or simply prefer a lighter swing weight feel, the Titan Yellow is the perfect counterbalanced alternative. It boasts essentially the same robust profile as the Black, but with more mass shifted higher up towards the grip section.

Swapping my driver head back and forth between the two profiles, I did momentarily lose my sense of head placement during the swing with the Yellow, but adding a touch more head weight quickly rectified that.

Meanwhile, the upcoming Titan Green is said to be the same profile as the Black but with elevated stiffness in every section - a frankly terrifying prospect that, sadistically, I can't wait to test.

Ultimately, if you are looking for the sturdiest, meatiest shaft on the market, the Titan Black is the perfect place to start.

Expect this profile to make massive waves on the professional tours next year, as many of the world's best will be entering their equipment testing windows over the next few months.

Arccos is widely considered the gold standard in golf shot-tracking and performance analysis. Its club-mounted sensors have logged over a billion shots but they may soon be obsolete.

Enter the Arccos Air: a compact, pocket-sized wearable that tracks every shot using built-in motion sensors and GPS, powered by an AI model trained on over 1.5 billion real swings. Its primary selling point? Waving goodbye to individual club sensors - simply connect your Air to your mobile, start a round in the Arccos app and forget about it.

Surely it can’t be as accurate as the sensors though, right? That’s the question I asked myself before my testing.

Well, having spent an entire summer using the Arccos Air, this is my verdict - what I liked, what I didn’t, and whether or not this device is for you.

First impressions are straightforward. The neat packaging opens to reveal a neat, compact device and charging case. While the plastic construction feels a bit lightweight for the price tag, the Air itself weighs next to nothing and measures a discreet 2.5” by 1.5”, fitting comfortably in my pocket. The companion case keeps the unit protected between games and only needs topping up every 10 to 12 rounds.

Setup was simple. Simply turn on the Air via the switch on the side of the device and you’re met with a light underneath the crown. Pair it to your app and this light turns green, meaning you’re ready to go.

I started testing skeptical of how a single body-worn device could identify which club was pulled. Unsurprisingly, it isn't as foolproof as dedicated club sensors, correctly identifying club selection on about 60% to 70% of shots.

From where I stand, 100% accuracy without using Smart Sensors is nearly impossible, but the Air did an admirable job estimating. I did the majority of my testing at Royal County Down, a course that is exposed to the elements and a switch of wind direction or strength can completely change how it plays.

I mentioned this example in my review for the Arccos Smart Laser, but the downhill par-three 4th hole plays roughly 190 yards but typically turns into the prevailing wind - I’ve hit everything from 8 iron to fairway woods on that tee over the years depending on the wind direction.

Given those variables, it’s easy to forgive the system for misjudging occasional selections. Furthermore, accuracy improved over time: as the software logged more rounds, club detection grew noticeably sharper.

Yes, the Air makes a few mistakes, but they're easily fixed. I absolutely hate being on my phone during a round of golf - it’s four hours of my day in which I can forget about work, culture wars and my football team’s bitterly disappointing start to the new season (again). If you’re less anti-phone than me, you can fix the mistakes on the Arccos app as you go throughout your round, but I tend to fix them in the bar after the round.

This process was a little jarring for me when I first started using the Air - it was my first Arccos experience and my unfamiliarity with the app meant it took me nearly 20 minutes as I got used to everything. Post-round editing now takes under five minutes and doubles as a helpful debrief.

Now, it takes me a mere five minutes. I also like it as a way to review my round, where I went wrong (or right, which is rare), and what lessons I can learn from this round to take into my next one.

Without doubt, having Smart Sensors would mean fewer mistakes and less editing, but the pre-round fixing process isn’t a dealbreaker for me and I don’t think it should be for you, either. However, I can understand why it would be for some. At the end of the day, the entire package here is a relatively expensive one, so having to fix these mistakes despite the financial outlay may leave some feeling they should be getting better for their money.

So, if you’re a Smart Sensors user, should you switch them for the Air? Personally, I don’t think so. If you’re bothered by having a sensor attached to the top of your grip then the Air is the way to go, but if it doesn’t bother you then the Sensors will undoubtedly be more accurate.

Ultimately, no game tracker will be 100% correct, so it comes down to what your own personal level of acceptable inaccuracies is and whether you want to spend 5-10 minutes post-round fixing them.

After using the Air all summer, it’s taken my understanding of my game to another level. An example of this is my performance off the tee. I have struggled with the driver for years and it reached a level mid-summer that can only be described as a word I must never say, but it starts with ‘Y’ and rhymes with ‘pips’. I got a lesson in August and my performance has improved, but it has highlighted that I've also struggled with my approach play to a similar level.

I’ve now identified that my iron play is the biggest weakness of my game and something I need to work on to get my handicap back down to what it used to be. I was a 4 handicap in 2024, but I’ve gone up to an 8 after two years of swing changes. Comparing my current 8-handicap metrics against my target 4-handicap gave me clear, actionable targets for practice.

Now for another massive talking point with Arccos - the price. The Air costs $349.99 - this price is for the software and device alone, but you get your first year of membership for free as part of the purchase. It will cost you $199.99 a year to maintain it after that.

The cost debate is a simple one in my eyes. Is it expensive? That depends. Is Arccos good? Definitely. Is it good value for money? This is the big question - and one that can only be answered by you.

At $349.99 (including one year of membership) plus $199.99 annually thereafter, the Air is a serious investment. For casual golfers playing once a week in summer, the cost-per-round is steep. But for dedicated players logging multiple rounds a week year-round, the level of insight justifies the price tag.

Then it becomes a question of whether you should go for the Air or the Smart Sensors. The sensors are $100 cheaper, so that could well influence your decision.

Whichever option you choose, you’re buying into the best tracking ecosystem on the market. With ongoing software updates expected to refine its machine learning, the Arccos Air will only get better.

While adoption on tour of the Ping Ally Blue Onset putter hasn’t exactly been widespread, it has generated significant buzz thanks to it being the catalyst to a stark turnaround in form of Wyndham Clark, who since making the switch has notched up a US Open win and two other PGA Tour titles, albeit with the counterbalanced version.

Intrigued by the performance claims and validation at the highest level, I decided to put this putter through its paces over the last few weeks to see if it lived up to the hype and can be labelled as one of the best putters on the market.

The first thing that hits you at address is the stark white finish. It creates a bold contrast against the turf, making the alignment system pop. This form what Ping is calling its Eye Q technology, an alignment aid that uses a top-rail black dot to stabilize visual focus. This design is said to help calm the mind, quiet the hands, and significantly increases ‘Quiet Eye’ duration, resulting in a steadier, more assured putting stroke during high-pressure moments.

Regardless, the combination of the long, clear sightline and the single top dot provides remarkably vivid visual cues. Setting the face square to your intended target line feels easier and almost automatic, helped by the fact the putter sits exceptionally flush to the green and very neutrally.

However, the bright white finish does come with a minor caveat in direct sunlight. On bright days, shadows cast across the white head from the shaft tend to stand out much more noticeably than they would on a traditional dark or anodized finish, which can be slightly distracting when it occurs and makes the alignment system less powerful.

During testing, the most immediate performance characteristic was a distinct right-side bias for me as a golfer that tends to aim right and pull putts online. For golfers who struggle with pulling putts or missing left, this putter is an absolute asset.

While it requires a brief adjustment period to dial in your aiming visuals and learn where to point the face to hit your intended line, it rewards you once calibrated. For my set up faults, the right bias tendency combined with the onset shaft design naturally neutralized my stroke.

The onset construction noticeably smoothed out my putting arc, taking out variables and encouraging more of a straight-back, straight-through motion. The onset geometry places the shaft axis in front of the putter's center of gravity, meaning the club is pulled rather than pushed through the stroke. This pulling dynamic delivers exceptional stability and the forgiveness of a mallet while preserving feel. 

Despite its high-MOI mallet performance, the Ally Blue Onset is surprisingly compact. It avoids the bulky "frying pan" footprint common in modern high-stability putters, maintaining a sleek, manageable profile at address, albeit in a rectangular profile that perhaps not everyone will appreciate.

In spite of the scaled-down head size, forgiveness is impressive - one of the most forgiving putters I've tried in recent years. Off-center hits maintain speed remarkably well, making long-range distance control a standout strength. While the impact of Ping's Eye Q technology is almost impossible to measure, my real-world testing showed consistent ball speeds and reliable start lines across the face once the right bias was accounted for.

Ping has struck a pleasant balance with the impact experience too. The feel off the face lands in the sweet spot - soft and responsive, yet far from mushy. There is a clear, audible "click" at impact that provides immediate sensory feedback on your strike quality.

This acoustic feedback translates directly into confident speed control, giving you a firm sense of energy transfer without sacrificing soft touch on delicate downhillers.

The stock SuperStroke Pistol 2.0 grip is comfortable and helps with both feel and distance control.

The Ping Ally Blue Onset putter is undoubtedly one of the most effective mallet putters on the market. Inconsistent golfers typically struggle with speed control and aim, and this putter provides a solution that every level of player can benefit from.

The arrival of the Takomo Ignis D2 driver is a story of turning a negative into an overwhelming positive.

You may recall that its predecessor, the Ignis D1, unfortunately was subject to a product recall as it failed the USGA and R&A conformity test in certain configurations. While Takomo insists a second-generation driver was always in the pipeline, it’s hard not to suspect its release was slightly accelerated by the conformity issue.

Crucially, however, Takomo’s handling of the situation was a masterclass in customer service, proactively contacting all Ignis D1 purchasers to offer a replacement D2 completely free of charge. But that begs the question: are returning customers getting a similar product?

In short, no. The D2 represents a fairly dramatic shift in philosophy, which could be a problem for many of those who purchased the original driver.

In terms of the tech, gone are the three weight ports found on the sole of the D1 (unsurprising, as they seemed to be the root cause of the conformity issues), replaced by a simpler single rear weight port on the D2. This works in tandem with a new, lighter HST160C titanium alloy variable-thickness face and a carbon composite crown to push the center of gravity much further back.

Out of the box, it comes fitted with a 3g back weight, but Takomo includes an extra 8g weight with every purchase. This is a smart and thoughtful touch at any price point, let alone at sub £300.

It affords players the opportunity to cut the driver down to a shorter playing length and maintain swing weight, or to simply screw the heavier weight in to increase MOI and boost the overall head weight.

Aesthetically, there is very little not to like. The 460cc shape is beautifully rounded, finished in a stealthy, understated colourway with a barely-there alignment aid. Even the included headcover is top-tier.

Takomo has become synonymous with minimalist, no-fuss designs, and the D2 is right in their wheelhouse.

However, one thing that I found ridiculous about this new model is the new shaft adapter. For some reason, Takomo has decided to ditch the very intuitive -1˚, +1˚ style labelling to guide you on how to adjust your driver precisely and accurately, and, in one of the strangest and most unnecessary design moves in the history of golf, has instead replaced it with compass-style NE and NW labelling.

I cannot for the life of me think why a company would want to make your life more difficult and confusing, but Takomo has managed it with aplomb on this loft sleeve.

Much player feedback on the old D1 was that it didn’t spin enough for mere mortals - though as a 120mph swinger, I actually found the complete opposite.

The D2, however, is a different beast entirely. Thanks to that deep CG, the spin numbers interestingly remained broadly similar for me, but the head unquestionably feels significantly more stable through the hitting zone.

I did run into a minor setup hurdle.

In its standard configuration, the club felt very light. It sits at a D1 swing weight, and as someone who generally lives closer to D4, I initially struggled to feel the clubhead during the swing. The heavier 8g weight is a welcome inclusion here to help combat that.

Furthermore, while the weighting is designed to be neutral, I found myself turning it over with a pronounced draw. I suspect this is because my sample measured in at a very upright 63 degrees, which is a long way from the 58-degree lie angle stated in the specs online.

To see where it truly stands, I put it head-to-head against my current driver, a TaylorMade Qi4D (8° loft, fitted with a Fujikura Ventus Black 6-X shaft).

Testing them side-by-side at the same length, my TaylorMade was undoubtedly faster. I registered an average of 119mph of clubhead speed and 173mph of ball speed with my gamer, compared to 117mph and 170mph with the Takomo.

The D2 was spinning at 2700rpm compared to my gamer’s 2350rpm, culminating in a carry distance of 286 yards for the Takomo versus 300 yards for the TaylorMade.

A 14-yard gap sounds significant, but if you shrink those differences proportionally down the swing-speed scale, an average 100mph swinger might only see a 6- or 7-yard difference. At that point, you have a very real conversation to have with yourself about value.

My Qi4D/Ventus setup would retail for roughly £800. The Takomo Ignis D2 is just £300. For the price of my current big stick, you could basically buy the D2 driver and a full set of Takomo irons. Food for thought about what a reasonable pound-per-yard ratio really is…

Overall, this is an incredibly impressive driver regardless of the price tag. It is exceptionally easy to use, looks premium, and sounds and feels solid. You will definitely find other drivers that are slightly quicker, and if you are seeking a low-spin bomber, you should look elsewhere.

But when you consider the £300 price point in the context of today's market, I cannot think of another driver that provides this level of bang for your buck.

The Takomo Ignis D2 driver comes in both left and right-handed options of 9˚ and 10.5˚. It is available with Fujikura Ventus shaft options (although it must be noted that these are not Velocore Ventus options; it is a watered-down “made for” derivative of the tour-validated Ventus line) of blue and red profiles.

When reviewing products from an independent brand, I always want to be impressed. Unfortunately, I was left disappointed after testing Vistaget's Golvia Pro rangefinder this past winter.

I’ll expand on why shortly, but first I’ll introduce the device I hoped would turn things around: the Golvia Ultra. Positioned as the most premium rangefinder in the Vistaget family, the Ultra made me cautiously optimistic that it would perform better than the Pro. Pleasingly, it did.

First impressions are strong - this is one of the best-looking rangefinders I’ve tested. The black and grey colorway features subtle dashes of dark red that enhance the premium feel, akin to that of the interior of a sports car. It feels sturdy in hand without being too heavy, weighing in at just 220 grams.

The Ultra comes with a reliable if unspectacular carry case to keep the device safe, while a USB-C charging port eliminates the need for disposable batteries, much like many of the best golf rangefinders we've tested this year.

Finally, the unit is IP65-certified, protecting it from dust and water exposure during every round. You also get a two-year warranty for peace of mind.

As mentioned, I was disappointed with the Golvia Pro when I reviewed it last year. I gave it a 3.5-star rating, mainly due to the display. Despite the rangefinder functioning well mechanically, the aiming circle in the reticle was far too small, making flag-hunting from 150 yards and beyond a serious challenge.

As I raised the Golvia Ultra to my eye on my first test hole at Royal County Down, I was pleased to see this concern is now a thing of the past.

The display quality on the Ultra is seriously impressive. The optics are crisp and clear, delivering 6x magnification that allows you to see virtually everything ahead.

The Golvia Ultra could also prove to be a superb option for players with shaky hands thanks to SteadyTrack Stabilization, a real-time technology that reduces the impact of hand tremors, breathing, and minor vibrations.

An 18mm long eye relief and ≥80% light transmission also mean those with vision discrepancies can shoot targets with ease. In terms of optical quality, this is without a doubt one of the best rangefinders of 2026. Considering I was critical of this very feature on the Golvia Pro, Vistaget's turnaround is commendable.

With an RRP of $299 at the time of writing, this model enters a highly competitive price bracket, but one feature helps it stand out from the crowd: Environmental Adjustment Yardage.

This clever tech provides an adjusted distance based on your surroundings, factoring in slope, temperature, humidity, and air pressure to give you as accurate a yardage as you could hope for.

Admittedly, it isn’t quite as advanced as the weather-adjusted figures on the new Arccos Smart Laser Rangefinder, but I was nevertheless impressed by its accuracy. My testing took place over two weeks when the temperature fluctuated very little, so I’ll be intrigued to see how these numbers perform come wintertime, but I’m confident they will hold up.

It is hard to find fault with the Vistaget Golvia Ultra. It’s a well-designed device that looks great, feels superb to hold, and is incredibly easy to use.

There is no need to connect it to a phone via Bluetooth or pair it with an app - as a simple ‘pick up and shoot’ laser, it is one of the best I’ve tested this year.

While the price might put some buyers off, this unit shouldn't be viewed as an expensive mid-tier device. Given its overall performance, it easily holds its own alongside cheaper 'premium' options like the Bushnell Tour Hybrid and Mileseey GenePro G1.

The fact that Vistaget identified, addressed, and fixed the one major flaw of the Golvia Pro has me excited for future releases. Identifying an issue is one thing, but fixing it and turning a former review-wrecker into a standout feature deserves real praise.

I raved about the Codechaos 25, and it remains one of my absolute go-to pairs of golf shoes. I still shout about it whenever I see it on sale. So, following up on a model that earned such a permanent spot in my shoe bag, and easily topped my list of the best women's spikeless golf shoes, was always going to be a tough ask for this fourth-generation update.

When it comes to styling, the Codechaos 25 had a bit more chaos about it, which was a huge part of its appeal, particularly its distinctive multi-layer knit upper. On the Codechaos 27, the tongue retains a mesh knit, but the overall upper aesthetic has shifted.

The iconic three stripes on either side now have a high sheen, which feels a little plasticky, as does the synthetic detail around the heel highlighting the Axislock system - adidas’s stabilisation tech designed to secure your heel, aid balance, and eliminate unwanted twisting.

Alison Root and Katie Dawkins share their thoughts on 2026 women's golf fashion

That said, if you’re worried the franchise has lost its edge, don't be. The colourway I tested white/dual indigo/frozen lemon is still pretty chaotic. There’s even a surprise splash of bright orange on the removable insole and the lace badge, which cleverly mirrors the traction nubs on the sole.

It’s an eye-catching design that really stands out on the fairways. Coming from someone who usually steers clear of anything too bright or lairy, I actually really like it. Though if you prefer something subtler, adidas does offer a more toned-down white/silver/grey option.

Where this shoe completely shines is its out-of-the-box comfort. Just as I did with the 25 at the AIG Women's Open, I wore the Codechaos 27 straight out of the box to walk the course at the recent Solheim Cup before ever teeing off in them. Loaded with full-length, end-to-end Boost foam, I found them to be so comfortable for high-energy steps and they kept my feet feeling completely fresh all day.

On the course, I couldn't fault their performance. They are noticeably lightweight, putting them right up there with models like the FootJoy Pro/SL and New Balance Fresh Foam Contend V3. The updated Twistgrip traction technology now features four distinct lug shapes, set against a multi-coloured outsole that is arguably even more chaotic than the shoe itself.

During testing, my feet felt solidly planted over every shot with zero slippage. The Axislock heel system really does its job, my feet felt completely locked in with no heel twist whatsoever.

In terms of fit, adidas lists these as a regular fit, but my consistent advice for their golf footwear remains: go up half a size for the perfect fit.

While the Codechaos 25 will always hold a special place in my heart for its aesthetic, the Codechaos 27 is a very worthy successor as one of the best women’s golf shoes. If you're looking for a competitively priced spikeless golf shoe that delivers exceptional comfort, serious traction, and head-turning style, you really can't go far wrong with this model.

The new Graphite Design Tour AD-EK wood shaft makes quite a promise with its name alone. The EK stands for “Extra Kick,” and after putting it through its paces, I can confirm it is very appropriately named.

Manufactured exclusively in Japan, it is engineered to deliver a mid-to-high launch with controlled low-to-mid spin, making it an impressive blend of lively feel and structural integrity designed to maximize carry distance.

How We Test Shafts

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

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

Testing Results

Visually, the black and grey design is certainly sleek, but it’s remarkably understated for Graphite Design. They’ve always been the kings of bold, eye-catching graphics, so I would have loved to see a trademark splash of high-visibility color - like a flash of electric pink.

The other new(ish) offering in the range, the Tour AD-FI, with its minty green accents, is a bit more like what we generally see from Graphite Design.

When waggling the shaft pre-swing, it certainly feels relatively stable and solid under the grip, with a fair bit of play apparent further down the shaft. This translates perfectly once you put the club in motion.

Once I started actually hitting balls, it became very obvious that the "play" I could feel was coming mainly from the mid-section of the shaft, and when looking at the technical construction, this makes perfect sense.

The Tour AD-EK utilizes a specialized EI profile featuring a stiff butt section, a firm mid-section, and a stiff tip section.

What really stood out to me was how stable the tip section is relative to the mid section, and I could detect very little deflection or movement upon impact. Graphite Design achieves this impressive stability by incorporating premium aerospace-grade 50-ton carbon fiber alongside the new Torayca T1200G carbon fiber in the tip section.

This is further bolstered by their proprietary AD Shield and MSI (Material Stiffness Integration) design philosophies. The result is a very clear sense of unloading through the ball, all the while maintaining a touch more impact stability than many other shafts that offer that same lively sensation.

I very much enjoyed testing this shaft. As someone who generally games a notoriously stout Fujikura Ventus Black in my driver, I found very usable and reasonable levels of control through the ball, without any sense of needing to try to work the shaft at all.

It offered an extremely comfortable and easy ride from start to finish!

Ultimately, if you are a player who likes to feel a little "life" and "kick" to a shaft but without sacrificing torsional stability and control at impact, then this is a must-try. Conversely, if you like a 'boardy' feel, then I wouldn't even bother clicking the wrench on your driver shut.

For those seeking an effortless launch, efficient energy transfer, and maximum kick velocity, the Tour AD-EK delivers brilliantly.

If you are a smooth-tempo golfer looking to maximize your driving performance, the new Graphite Design Tour AD FI (Flight Intelligence) wood shaft needs to be on your radar. Read on to see if this interesting new profile might suit your game.

How We Test Shafts

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

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

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

Testing Results

Starting with the looks, and while the visual of a shaft could be deemed relatively unimportant, I absolutely love the colour choice here - the kind of mint green and black accent looks sensational and might be my favorite looker from Graphite Design since the Tour AD-UB profile.

When waggling the shaft, my first impression was a somewhat soft and friendly one.

It didn't feel in any way like hard work under the hands, and I could feel a comfortable amount of give further down. Graphite Design officially categorizes the bend profile as Firm+ in the butt and center sections with a Stiff tip, engineered to promote mid-launch angles with low to low-mid spin rates.

This dynamic performance is achieved by utilizing ultra-premium 50-ton aerospace-quality carbon fiber, alongside advanced Torayca M40X and T1100G pre-preg materials.

Additionally, the inclusion of their Material Stiffness Integration (MSI) and new Tornado Tip Tech with NANOALLOY technology delivers an incredibly refined feel while maximizing structural stability.

When I started hitting shots, however, it quickly became apparent that it was far from a good match for my mid/brisk tempo and the heavier load and leverage I apply in transition.

The butt section just didn't support my aggressive change of direction well enough, and I generally found I couldn't control the clubhead as well as I would have liked - but in truth, it simply wasn't designed for someone with my swing characteristics.

During testing, it was soon very clear why someone with Nelly Korda's famously smooth tempo and flowing transition from backswing to downswing would find success with this profile.

There is plenty of feel and play under the hands and into the mid-section, allowing a softer transition to feel a nice bit of loading, but with the tip stability to provide absolute security at strike.

This could be the exact shaft many smoother tempo players have been searching for.

Often, these player types are steered into "red" profiles in the Fujikura or Mitsubishi ranges, and a softer tip section is just accepted as a necessary compromise.

With the Tour AD FI, you can still get a nice tempo match for a fluid swing, but you finally have a great option for a stronger tip.

When Srixon announced its second-generation ZXi lineup, the ZXiU utility iron arrived promising a high-launching, forgiving long-iron replacement.

However, putting the new club side-by-side with its predecessor reveals a simple truth: this is functionally the exact same club, with a minor cosmetic refresh to sit cohesively alongside its 2026 ZXi family.

Under the hood, the technical story still centers on Srixon’s i-FORGED platform. The only real technical adjustment seems to be the claim that enhancements to their proprietary forging process strengthen the material surrounding each groove while maintaining the core softness of the face.

In theory, this improves face durability and longevity compared to the previous generation.

However, honestly, short-term testing makes it impossible to comment on claims regarding long-term groove durability, so it wouldn’t be right to comment on the validity of this feature at this early stage.

What can be evaluated immediately on the range, however, is how the club sets up and strikes the ball - and I can’t help but feel a real sense of de ja vu.

Sitting behind the ball, it is virtually impossible to detect a single visual difference from last year’s model - to my eye at least. Same profile, same blade length, same mirrored bulge popping out of the back. It was genuinely a constant struggle in testing to know which one I was using!

When struck side-by-side on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, that story remains unchanged also: the feel, launch angles, spin rates, and overall ball speed data are, to all intents and purposes, completely identical.

Because the visual and performance profile is essentially identical to the prior generation, it seems somewhat frivolous to waste time re-reviewing what is effectively the same club, and readers are best directed to last year’s review for a comprehensive breakdown.

This isn’t a criticism; the previous model was an outstanding long-iron alternative, and a simple cosmetic tweak to the back plate to align with the rest of the 2026 family is perfectly fine.

Existing owners have no urgent reason to upgrade, but for anyone looking to build a fresh combo set, the 2026 ZXiU remains one of the finest utility irons on the market.

The Titleist AVX has always occupied a specific space within the premium ball market. The 26’ AVX has been introduced into the Titleist golf ball lineup as the lowest-flying, lowest-spinning, and softest-feeling option in the brand’s large family.

The latest generation leans even further into those attributes, and so I wanted to put it to the test against the gold standard of golf balls - the Titleist Pro V1. I took both of these balls onto the golf course as well as inside the Golf Monthly Performance Lab using a Foresight Sports QuadMax launch monitor to analyse the performance differences.

One of the primary reasons golfers have gravitated towards the AVX is its feel, and the new softer urethane cover does not disappoint. It provides a soft sensation off the face of every club in the bag, which I particularly enjoyed with the scoring clubs.

The other reason golfers would sway towards the AVX is its low-spin nature. When talking about low-spin performance, this softer cover was something I would lean towards, over other low-spin options from Titleist, such as the Pro V1x Left Dash, which offers a significantly firmer feel off the clubface.

When starting my testing, I was hitting 50-yard pitches in the studio and immediately noticed the AVX launching lower than the Pro V1. The AVX set off at 29.1° (compared to 31.3°) and peaked at a height of just 24 feet. Because of its low-spin design, it generated 6624 rpm of spin, which is roughly 1000 rpm less than the Pro V1's 7645 rpm.

Testing the AVX out on the course proved incredibly positive, and it performed a lot better around the greens than I initially expected. While it doesn't possess the immediate bite of the Pro V1, the AVX still provides enough grab to comfortably control chips and pitches when pitching onto fairly firm greens.

I was also thoroughly impressed by how responsive this softer cover felt off a milled putter face - something that made dialling in distance control on longer putts feel easy.

Moving into the mid-irons, the AVX showcased its speed. It produced a spin rate of 5501 rpm, once again noticeably lower than the Pro V1's 5798 rpm. Despite the reduced spin and a slightly slower ball speed of 123.4 mph (versus the Pro V1's 124.7 mph), it generated a strong carry of 176.5 yards, edging out the Pro V1 by a yard and a half.

Taking the AVX outside into the elements highlighted a few more distinct advantages. The new cover's durability is really impressive. After an admittedly scrappy round that involved splashing out of a few bunkers and grazing a few branches, the urethane cover emerged looking remarkably fresh, with barely a scuff to be seen.

It was off the tee, though, where the AVX showed its true character. It produced just 2048 rpm with the driver compared to the Pro V1's 2312 rpm. This spin, combined with a solid launch, delivered a massive 301 yards of carry, once again flying past the Pro V1's 298 yards. Instead of dropping out of the sky, the AVX held its line really well when testing it in the wind, and the lower flight really felt I was in solid control off the tee.

If you're a high-spin player looking to squeeze every yard out of your driver and irons, the Titleist AVX could be the ball you’ve often overlooked. It does fly lower and spin less than a lot of the other best golf balls on the market, but the solid short-game control in a package that’s around $10/£12 lower per dozen compared to the Pro V1 offers great performance for the money.

As a topline story, the Proto Concept C03TC is a relatively compact cavity back iron that sits beautifully in the middle ground between a traditional blade and a power-jacked players' distance iron.

Packed with high-quality materials and clever technological features, it is designed to elevate playability for the mid-to-low handicapper, so let’s see if it can hold its own against some of the best irons in the game.

From a technology standpoint, Proto Concept has utilized 3D CAD design to optimize the center of gravity for each specific loft. The most notable and visible tech feature is the CNC-milled undercut cavity present in the 4- to 7-irons.

This precisely machined channel varies in depth, width, and angle depending on the club, effectively lowering the CG to help launch longer shots effortlessly. The shorter scoring irons intentionally forgo this undercut to deliver a flatter, more controlled flight.

The entire set is forged in Japan from premium S20C carbon steel, providing a pure, single-piece construction.

Looks-wise, the C03TC is undeniably attractive from the back angle.

The smart, understated branding avoids being too ‘in your face,’ and for some reason I really enjoyed the visual of the little CNC undercut cavity.

While I am not normally a fan of blending finishes on iron clubheads (as anyone who regularly reads my iron reviews will know), the combination of chrome, brushed steel, and matte elements is executed subtly here, and is actually genuinely additive to the premium feel.

The head shape in isolation is stunning - featuring a lovely curved toe, nicely balanced blade length, and a relatively straight leading edge that frames the ball beautifully.

However, it’s certainly worth noting the visual offset.

Because of how the leading edge transitions into the hosel, to me the club visually appears to have more offset than it actually does (and the 7-iron possesses a fairly hefty 3.9mm of face progression to start with).

Offset has almost become a bit of a dirty word in the iron game of late, with many people associating its presence with game-improvement-style design, but in reality it is a look and a feature that many of the world's very best players seek out to manage the timing of their strike, start lines, and actually just visual preference.

There is a long list of top, top players who demand as much offset as possible, including Adam Scott, Cameron Young and Bernhard Langer.

In this instance, because of that, the profile is one that some players will absolutely love, but one that will potentially alienate others who prefer the leading edge and hosel to match up a little more.

Performance-wise, the feel off the nickel-chrome plated face is beautifully soft, undeniably providing that quintessential high-quality forged sensation.

I had briefly wondered if the undercut channel might diminish the solidity of strike in any way, but absolutely not. Impact sensation is every bit as dense and responsive as category leaders such as the Mizuno Pro S3.

Through the turf, the C03TC features quite an aggressive sole geometry. While there isn't much bounce in play - which could, in some instances, cause steeper deliveries to struggle slightly on entry to the turf - the relative width of the sole softens that minimal bounce, making it surprisingly playable.

Furthermore, the trail edge relief grinding ensures that the exit from the turf is exceptionally smooth.

With the 7-iron coming in at 32˚, it covers a nice territory between more traditional blades at around 34˚ and some of the more ‘loft-jacked’ players' distance irons that can come in sub-30˚.

At £257 per iron, these are very much premium-price-tag irons. Golfers will have to make up their own minds as to whether they see enough performance to drag them away from more familiar names and brands, but I can absolutely testify to the exceptional build quality and world-class feel.

If you are a mid-low handicap player who looks for a good bit of offset and wants an exotic iron option that won't look like a carbon copy of your friends' bags, the Proto Concept C03TC is a really strong option.

Srixon has just announced its all-new ZXi RKT Woods family, representing what the brand calls a complete reimagination of its metalwood line-up. With new RKT Face technology - utilizing a proprietary VR-Titanium alloy - and an enhanced i-FLEX face structure, Srixon promises explosive ball speed and refined acoustics.

As someone who appreciates when a brand rebuilds its development process from the ground up rather than merely tweaking the previous generation, I was eager to get the low-spin, tour-validated ZXi RKT LS driver onto the launch monitor to see if it can disrupt some of the best golf drivers in the game.

If the pre-release professional tour success is anything to go by - with an Open Championship, an Irish Open, and a Women’s Scottish Open under its belt already - there is every chance…

Visually, the ZXi RKT LS is going to go down very well in my opinion.

The compact profile looks very tidy behind the ball, and the overall shaping is one that better players will likely prefer, being a touch more pear-shaped or teardrop-like than some of the rounder, high-MOI offerings on the market today.

It retains that very classic Srixon styling and branding, complete with techy-feeling geometry and the familiar red accent color on the sole weights.

The crown view is outstanding, blending beautifully from a solid matte black near the front into a premium carbon look further back. I also appreciate the lighter face color, which will appeal to those who like to see the loft at address for added confidence.

I have had mixed opinions from those I've shown it to in terms of the new "S" alignment feature on the crown; I happen to like it, but I’ve heard others say they would prefer a simple dot, or no alignment aid at all, rather than a branding opportunity.

One negative point that must be raised before we get to performance is the headcover. It’s all personal preference, obviously, but the velour material coupled with the shiny plastic lettering of "RKT" is unfortunately giving me distinct '90s nightclub vibes.

If I am gaming this driver, it’ll definitely be slipping into one of my spare aftermarket headcovers!

While the key tech info tells me that a lot of work has been done with the new AI-optimized ACOUSTICORE chassis to enhance the sound from the ZXi range of last year, in truth, I couldn't tell much difference. Maybe that is a commentary on my aging ears, but it’s very much more of the same for me in terms of audio.

It is a touch louder and more robust-sounding than much of its competition at the top end of the driver game, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. I like having different audio options among the drivers I test, as it caters to all tastes. Some may prefer the dull thud of a TaylorMade Qi4D, whereas others may favor the marginally tinnier noises of this range or much of the Ping G440 family.

Feel will also possibly divide opinion. There is a touch more feedback and vibration into my hands than I would maybe prefer, but on the flip side of that, it is one of the most communicative drivers I have hit in terms of letting you know the precise impact location.

Much like the GTS range from Titleist, as long as this feedback is coupled with flattering launch monitor numbers, all is well - and that is certainly the case here. For a low-spin driver, it is exceptionally stable off-center.

Along with that stability, all of the main launch monitor parameters you would look for are taken care of extremely well with the RKT LS, as you would imagine from a driver that has already captured a number of high-profile professional tournament victories prior to its official release.

If you are looking for massive surface-level gains from the previous model, my testing experience suggests you probably aren't going to find them. In fact, my overall data comparison was basically identical to the excellent ZXi LS. However, one thing that kept cropping up was improved dispersion.

All of my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor dispersion circles were a little tighter with the updated RKT, no matter how many sessions I put it through. That translated to immense confidence and peace of mind when taking it out onto the course.

This is a predictably solid driver offering from one of the premier manufacturers of golf equipment in the game. While the feel didn't necessarily tick all of my personal boxes, the performance and consistency are undeniable.

I get a little bored of saying it year after year, but I genuinely don't know what Srixon has to do (other than spend millions of marketing dollars) to be firmly in that conversation alongside Titleist, Ping, Callaway, and TaylorMade when drivers come up. But one thing is for sure: the mounting pile of tournament victories is certainly going to help!

Pricing & Availability

Price: £569/€679
On sale: 2nd October 2026

Srixon says it has completely overhauled its metalwood development process for 2026, building the all-new ZXi RKT lineup from the ground up rather than settling for an incremental cosmetic refresh.

At the heart of this redesign is new RKT Face technology, combining a silicon-enhanced VR-Titanium alloy with an upgraded i-FLEX face structure and dual-zone Rebound Frame technology to maximize energy transfer.

Stepping up to the standard ZXi RKT at address, the visual changes are immediately apparent. Unlike the tighter, compact teardrop profile found on the RKT LS driver, this core model features a slightly rounder footprint behind the ball. Personally, this profile suits my eye a little more, striking a fantastic balance between a sleek, athletic aesthetic and the subtle reassurance of added forgiveness.

Srixon’s refined styling continues onto the crown, which transitions smoothly from a solid matte black near the front edge into a crisp carbon weave towards the back. The lighter face finish is another welcome touch, making it remarkably easy to pick out the loft at setup.

Opinions may be split on the new "S" graphic alignment feature on the crown - while I don’t mind the subtle branding, a few traditionalists I showed it to mentioned they would have preferred a clean crown or a standard alignment dot.

As for the headcover, it’s not to my tastes at all. The combination of velour fabric and shiny plastic "RKT" badging does not do justice to the premium quality of this driver, so I’d likely swap it out for a custom headcover on game day.

Srixon placed a heavy focus on acoustics during R&D, implementing an AI-optimized ACOUSTICORE internal rib structure alongside the lightweight carbon crown, and while there is a slight improvement, it still wouldn’t be in my top three or four current drivers in that regard.

Far from bad, the sound remains distinctly robust and powerful. It doesn't quite produce the dull, dense thud of the TaylorMade Qi4D; it is more of an industrial ‘thwack’ which may well appeal to many.

In terms of feel, the ZXi RKT offers plenty of tactile feedback through the hands. Impact location is communicated instantly - much like Titleist’s GTS series - without feeling harsh on off-center strikes.

For a driver designed to balance workability with stability, the feedback is precise, allowing you to know exactly where you hit it on the face while the internals ensure that you are not unduly punished for your strike discrepancies.

Where the standard ZXi RKT shines is in its adjustability. Instead of the front-to-back weights of the LS version, Srixon has continued with an adjustable heel-to-toe weighting system from the original ZXi, although the positioning is a little more extreme, allowing stronger adjustments in ball flight.

During testing, this is one of the few horizontal CG adjusters I have found to make a tangible difference to ball flight. In all honesty, many of them feel not even close to extreme enough, but this is a very effective feature of the ZXi RKT.

Across multiple Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor sessions, peak ball speeds were comparable to the outgoing generation, but the consistency of the data was striking. The combination of the i-FLEX face and Rebound Frame delivers remarkably stable spin rates across off-center hits. More importantly, my dispersion circles were consistently tighter, giving me absolute trust when standing over tight tee shots on the course.

The ‘core’ Srixon ZXi RKT driver is a thoroughly impressive golf club. By pairing a more universally appealing rounder head shape with a highly effective heel-toe weighting system, Srixon has produced a driver that delivers elite-level consistency without sacrificing workability.

With its growing list of tour victories, Srixon continues to prove that its metal woods deserve to sit on the exact same pedestal as Titleist, Ping, Callaway, and TaylorMade.

Pricing & Availability

Price: £569/€679
On sale: 2nd October 2026

A couple of years ago, the Srixon ZXi fairway wood really blew me away with its impressive power and speed and quickly became one of my favourite models on the market.

So when I heard the updated, improved ZXi RKT model was on its way, I couldn’t wait to take it for a spin both on the golf course and indoors on a launch monitor to see if it could be considered a late contender for one of the best fairway woods of 2026.

Like the previous model, I once again loved the look of this Srixon fairway wood right out of the gate. It boasts a pretty small, compact-looking head that the more confident ball striker will enjoy. The carbon matte black crown really accentuates that classic, low-handicapper preferred profile.

The chrome and gloss black detailing on the sole give this club an undeniable, stealth-like shelf appeal, one of the cleanest looks on any fairway wood released this year. That refined shape is the direct result of Srixon's engineers working closely with their Tour staff over two years of testing to create a cleaner, more confident look at address.

I do think Srixon is missing a trick with only one fairway wood model, and would benefit from a larger, more forgiving fairway wood in the RKT lineup to appeal more to the masses.

Taking it inside the Golf Monthly Performance Lab and hitting the ZXi RKT on the Foresight Sports QuadMax launch monitor, this fairway wood felt fast off the clubface through impact, providing a trampoline-like sensation through impact.

While it offers fairly loud acoustics, it is slightly more muted than the previous ZXi model - a welcomed change in my opinion. This tuned acoustic comes from what Srixon calls its Acousticore chassis, which uses AI-optimized internal structures alongside the carbon crown to dial in a specific sound - read more about that here.

The data perfectly mirrored that powerful feel that I felt when swinging the ZXi RKT in full flow. Looking at my launch monitor numbers, the club produced a highly impressive ball speed of 154.3 mph. The launch angle sat at a penetrating 12.4 degrees, paired with a stable spin rate of 2606 rpm. This combination of speed and launch conditions resulted in a strong peak height of 105 feet and a superb carry distance of 261.4 yards.

Much of this raw power can be attributed to the new RKT Face technology. This design utilizes a proprietary VR-Titanium alloy and is combined with an i-Flex face structure to create optimum energy transfer and consistency in ball speed thanks to the expanded flex zone across the face.

On the face of it (pun intended), the distance seems fairly impressive, but the rest of the launch conditions and the ball flight on offer are the exact reasons this fairway wood won’t make it directly into my bag. The lack of spin (I would usually like to see 3000 rpm) meant that I struggled to hold the green when hitting this fairway wood for my approach shot into a par-5 when testing on the golf course.

As you can see from the data above, when comparing the ZXi RKT to one of the most popular fairway woods in the professional game and the model in my bag right now, the TaylorMade Qi4D, it is spinning considerably less and producing a lot lower ball flight than my current option.

Both clubs were measured using a 15° head with a Fujikura Ventus Black 7X shaft.

All in all, there wasn't a whole lot of difference in the speed or in carry distance between the two, but I would say I felt a lot more in control of the ball flight with the Qi4D due to the additional spin created with that club.

Unless you possess a serious amount of speed and power, most golfers will need to loft this club up using the adjustable hosel to create enough spin and launch when hitting from it from the fairway or rough. Moreover, if you usually use fairway woods as a secondary option from the tee or regularly play in windy conditions and seek a penetrating, flatter ball flight, this could be a great option for you.

Another massive plus for this generation is the introduction of adjustability in both the hosel and an adjustable sole weight for the first time, making it easy to dial the club in both in terms of face angle, loft, and weight.

Ultimately, this fairway wood will be a very good option for golfers wanting an alternative club to hit than driver from the tee, or for those who regularly play on links or in windy conditions and want to get the ball chasing down the fairway as quickly as possible.

For me personally, the outright speed it creates doesn’t quite make up for the lack of shot shaping due to a lack of spin and launch when striking the RKT fairway wood from the deck.

Few in the Srixon design and marketing team could’ve dreamed up a better start to life for its new ZXi RKT family of drivers. A Major win in the hands of Ryan Fox and a record-breaking home open win for Shane Lowry at Doonbeg have already thrust the new drivers into the public consciousness. And now, us regular folk can have a go.

Srixon says it has completely overhauled its metalwood development process for 2026, with the new ZXi RKT range being built from the ground up with a host of new technologies. The Max version I tested is the most forgiving driver in the family and is squarely aimed at golfers looking for the most forgiveness and stability on offer from off-center strikes.

At the heart of this redesign is new RKT Face technology, combining a silicon-enhanced VR-Titanium alloy with an upgraded i-FLEX face structure and dual-zone Rebound Frame technology to maximise energy transfer.

What we've noticed throughout our testing about this range is how distinct each head is from the other, especially at the address position. The compact teardrop profile of the LS head becomes much rounder behind the ball when you work up to the core model, and it goes a step further once more with the Max head.

In many other driver families, it can be tough to distinguish the role of each model, but that certainly isn't the case here, which should lead to more clarity for golfers and fitters alike.

It is confidence-inspiring; you can see plenty of loft thanks to the lighter face finish, and it will no doubt really suit the eye of the golfer looking for as much real estate and forgiveness as possible from their driver.

Like my colleague who reviewed the other two models, I’m not a huge fan of the ‘S’ alignment aid on top of the crown, which doesn’t match the subtlety the rest of the head is designed with. I’d have much preferred to see a simple dot.

The only other negative I have from a design standpoint is the headcover. Too many different textures, too many different finishes, and some shiny detailing doesn’t match the premium price tag or performance that comes with this model. Most who opt for the new driver will immediately want to swap this out for their own headcover.

Enough on looks, how did this driver perform? Well, much like the other drivers in the family, it once again proves that Srixon is a brand up there with the very best drivers in the metalwood market.

Sound was something Srixon focused heavily on in the redesign of the driver. A new internal rib structure alongside the lightweight carbon crown was implemented to improve sound at impact over its predecessor.

There are certainly some small signs of improvement, but it’s by no means the best-sounding driver on the market. That can of course come down to personal preference, but the robust and powerful sound still doesn't quite produce the same dull, dense thud of something like a TaylorMade Qi4D Max.

Pretty much any modern driver will provide you with power and accuracy from strikes out of the middle. Indeed, it felt powerful; it launched with ease and produced long downrange results.

But its overall stability is where I was most impressed. I could produce all manner of deliveries to the golf ball, and off-center hits would be gobbled up to save me from disaster. Of course, there was ball speed drop-off and directional issues from toe or heel strikes, but far less drastic than I'd experience on a lower MOI model.

While there is adjustability in loft and face angle through the hosel adapter, there are no adjustable head weights, with the lone 14g weight in the back of the head helping pull the CG as far back and as low as possible to help launch.

If you want a driver that isn’t quite as spinny as this, or has a bit more adjustability, the core model offers a similarly shaped head with adjustable head weights that have proven to make a tangible difference to ball flight.

The ZXi RKT Max utilises the best of Srixon’s newest technologies and packages it in a forgiving, confidence-inspiring head. If I’m honest, it’s not a huge jump up from the ZXi Max from a few years ago, despite the new technology, but brands are working in such small areas thanks to the confinements of the rules that this has to be expected.

Pricing & Availability
Price: £569/€679
On sale: 2nd October 2026

McLaren’s entry into the golf space has been one of the most anticipated and talked-about stories in golf equipment this year.

Anyone who read my review of the Series 3 irons will know that I was somewhat underwhelmed with the first offering. While the build quality was undeniable, the looks and innovation left me slightly disappointed.

When I saw the tracking number arrive for the Series 1 model, I wanted to approach this review with an entirely clean slate and see if McLaren has created something to challenge the best golf blades on the market. Ian Poulter and Justin Rose have been waxing lyrical about their sets, so let’s see what they are all about…

Visuals are always a subjective topic, but let’s start with the in-the-bag look. While the Series 1 are undeniably eye-catching from this angle, in my opinion (and if social media comment sections are to be believed) they could be a little divisive.

Generally speaking, players shopping in this category of iron are used to, and even seeking, very traditional and understated looks, whereas the visible honeycomb and the very striking McLaren signature papaya colour on the rear of the Series 1 irons are far from subtle, offering a much more futuristic style.

Initially I wasn’t sure how I felt about the looks from this angle, but I have to say, the more I looked at them sat in the test bag, the more I began to get used to, and ultimately very much enjoyed, the aesthetic. I think the sheer quality of the finish really helped in this regard, with every curve of the main body or junction of the honeycomb structure polished to absolute geometric perfection.

There is one design element I absolutely still cannot get on board with, however: the digital effect numbering on the sole. I said it about the Series 3 irons, and sadly I will say it again: this was a genuine dropping of the ball from the design team for me and dramatically cheapens the overall look of an extremely premium set of irons.

However, while I may be a little mixed in my opinions from the in-the-bag perspective, I am 100% all in from the playing position.

The shaping - particularly from the pitching wedge through to the 7-iron - is nothing short of phenomenal. They aren't overly curvy, nor are they overly angular or boxy; they strike the perfect balance to my eye, and are a joy to look down on. More on how they sit behind the ball later…

Another thing that tickled my fancy visually was the completely unapologetic look of the longer irons at address.

Often this is dumbed down in modern ‘blades’ to help them feel less intimidating in some way - not so here! The 3, 4, and 5-irons are a complete throwback in the playing position in the best way possible, boasting razor-thin toplines that would make your eyes water on a cold winter morning, and I love it.

I’ve become bored of the sanitisation of these longer irons; if I want ‘help’, there are hundreds of options out there with chunky toplines and longer blade lengths. If I am buying blades, however, honestly I am after pure butter knives, and that is exactly what I've got here. I think it is very important we don't lose this option from the game.

Performance-wise, I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed my testing sessions with the Series 1 irons. Interestingly, my first session with them coincided with a session testing the full Miura range, which made for a very interesting and useful comparison of feel.

Undeniably, the Miura equivalents felt a little softer at impact, but the Series 1 irons absolutely weren't overshadowed. The feel was responsive, offered plenty of feedback, and was actually a little more forgiving on poor strikes than the overall profile may lead you to believe. Maybe not quite in the Cobra 3DP MB league of forgiveness, but certainly knocking on the door.

Consistency of carry and spin numbers was superb, and the turf interaction was nothing short of joyful.

For me, this ground prowess came from a feature that I loved as much visually as technically: the leading edge is one of the flattest horizontally (when you look at the club face-on) I have ever seen, and very comparable to the TaylorMade P7TW in that regard.

Often, companies try to curve the sole up a touch at the edges, presumably in an attempt to have less contact with the ground and allow the club to slip through more easily, but I never find it that effective in practice, and moreover, it often causes me problems getting the club to sit correctly and stationary behind the ball.

The Series 1 irons sit as flush to the ground as you could ever imagine and don't move a millimetre once in place, which is an underrated feature, particularly when you have just had the summer we’ve experienced in the UK. The burnt-out, tight-links fairways I play on are as slippery as an ice rink for the iron clubhead, and trying to settle the club in behind the ball can be quite nerve-wracking and distracting.

The result through the ball is some of the neatest and most uniform divots I have ever seen! I don't know if this had any real performance benefit whatsoever, but it sure was satisfying.

Distance output on the Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor was relatively modest, as you would expect with such traditional lofts (the 7-iron sits at 34° and the PW is 46°), but the consistency and feedback were very much in the upper echelons of this category of irons.

Finally, the elephant in the room will once again be the price tag. At £360 per iron, a lot of people will switch off immediately; I get that - and I'm sure McLaren do too. But this is simply the way of the world, and it happens in so many other industries. When you have built a brand and reputation into the luxury sphere, many people are willing to stump up potentially over the odds to be associated with it.

In watches, you can buy a Rolex for ten grand or a Casio for thirty pounds; both essentially do the same job of telling the time. You could buy a plain white T-shirt from Uniqlo for £19.99 and the same design from Gucci for £200, and while Gucci would argue the difference in material quality, they are both plain white T-shirts at the end of the day.

The same applies here. You could buy a set of Vice Golf blades for less than £800, or even a set of Takomo blades for a little over £600, and frankly, you would likely notice very little in the way of tangible performance differences, so logic would dictate that would be the prudent financial play.

However, like it or not, understand it or not, there will always be a market for luxury, high-ticket items that make people feel something different, and it is not for me to decide if that makes any sense.

Focusing purely on the product at hand, what I can say is that for anyone fortunate enough to have the means to purchase a set of the McLaren Series 1 irons, you will absolutely not be disappointed with what they give you back.

The zero-torque putter market has absolutely exploded over the last year or so, with almost every manufacturer looking to offer its own version of this popular putter type. Now it's Mizuno's turn to enter the fray with the M.Craft X Three putter (£429).

At first glance, I really like the look of this putter. It frames the ball exceptionally well and offers a genuinely confidence-inspiring look, which will help those who struggle on the greens, particularly with shorter putts.

Traditionally, zero-torque models can look a bit unconventional, often relying on the shaft running directly into the center of the head and through the center of gravity. However, Mizuno’s new Z-Neck introduces a different approach to Zero Torque performance, similar to that of the Evnroll Zero Z5s. I prefer this reverse plumber's neck style over a traditional, center-shafted look, and I think golfers looking to try zero-torque technology for the first time will as well.

The Z-Neck is engineered so that the shaft axis passes directly through the putter's CG. This helps keep the face square to the path of the stroke, minimizing twisting of the putter head and therefore helping start the ball on your intended line more often.

What makes this release of the M.Craft X Three exciting is the premium technology and the sheer versatility of this interchangeable model. Like other models in the M.Craft range, these putters can actually be taken apart, allowing golfers to change the face and neck (£289), the rear of the putter (£100), or the weights (£40), should they choose to, without having to purchase a brand new putter.

These individual components allow golfers to experiment with different feels, alignment aids, and appearances, allowing you to switch between zero-torque and a putter with toe hang in a matter of clicks with a wrench.

From a performance standpoint, the M.Craft X Three putter really impressed me. That soft feel, thanks to the milled 1025E carbon steel head, felt superb and had my pace control dialed from distance. On a test with 12 balls from 40ft, the ball finished in my ‘gimme’ zone 10 out of 12 times - impressive control that I saw replicated when using it on the golf course.

The larger head and elongated alignment line made it easy to align when setting up for those more makeable putts, although I would have preferred to have seen the alignment aid run all the way through to the top of the face on the putter.

Furthermore, a precision-milled aluminium back structure complements the forged steel front section. This multi-material construction enables the putter to combine the responsive feel and control of a blade with the added stability and forgiveness of a mallet.

I constantly question why more golfers don't use or play with Mizuno putters. Considering how well-known the irons and wedges are for their incredible feel, I think these putters are massively slept on when it comes to the playing experience.

The ‘7 series’ from Srixon has consistently proven itself to be among the very best irons in the game. Consistently featuring in the bags of Srixon tour players, non-contracted touring professionals, and the wily low handicapper at your club over the years, better players just love them.

Having extensively tested and loved the previous generation, I was incredibly eager to get my hands on the new 2026 Srixon ZXi7 irons to see if the legacy continues.

Honestly, when I first read through the press release and tech sheets prior to my testing sessions, I was left thinking, "Oh, nothing has changed; that's disappointing." However, upon reflection, if anything changed significantly, I would be hopping around angry that a masterpiece had been ruined!

Spoiler alert: It was brilliant last time round, and it is brilliant again.

Ultimately, what we have here are the slightest of slight refinements, and as sceptical as I can be at times of 'subtle refinements' from manufacturers translating to: "we're out of ideas", I would genuinely say they are for the better.

One of the main objectives when redesigning a model as good and successful as this must surely be to simply not mess it up. I can unequivocally confirm that Srixon has achieved that fundamental objective.

In terms of the technology, the primary story revolves around i-FORGED, which Srixon bills as its most advanced breakthrough in iron metallurgy. This new process combines proprietary condensed forging techniques with carefully controlled heat-softening procedures.

The result strengthens the high-stress material surrounding each groove while maintaining a buttery soft core. This improves the durability and longevity of the face technology compared to the previous generation, all while preserving the signature feel that defines Srixon forged irons.

Furthermore, every second-generation ZXi iron is forged by Endo Manufacturing in Japan - widely recognized as one of the world's premier forging facilities - guaranteeing exceptional consistency from head to head.

The flagship ZXi7 also introduces PureFrame iQ, an AI-assisted evolution of Srixon’s acclaimed PureFrame technology. Engineers have expanded and optimized the forged ridge positioned directly behind the sweet spot to stiffen the impact zone, utilize mass more efficiently, and reduce unwanted face deformation.

Interestingly, the shaping and topography of the cavity section dictated by this PureFrame iQ technology has slightly softened and is not as pronounced as before. This certainly looks even better to my eye.

From a visual standpoint, the ZXi7 is stunning. The new generation has been refined through extensive collaboration with Srixon's global Tour staff, and it shows.

The shaping is superb, and while you can still see some of the tech with the humps and bumps of the back, it has been beautifully executed. Something as simple as changing the white paint fill of the number on the previous generation to match the black of the rest of the logo just elevates the look a little for me.

From the ‘in the bag’ perspective, this is comfortably my favorite Srixon iron ever.

When I put them down side by side with last year's offering, the new toplines look a touch slimmer, and the visual transitions throughout the set are undeniably cleaner - both changes that better players will absolutely love.

Something I always love about this series is the heel-to-toe relationship, but this will be slightly divisive. I have always craved a high toe and a nice low, pinched-in heel, as it makes the club appear more upright than it actually is - a look I love. However, many others prefer a higher heel section and a ‘boxier’ look, so bear that in mind.

The only other structural change I can easily detect is a touch more perimeter weighting in the longer irons. This is a highly logical move, providing just a hint of extra forgiveness where you need it most, while mass is concentrated more toward the center of the short irons for enhanced shot-shaping capability and precision.

I would be lying if I said I could personally detect the performance gain of either of those changes, but either way, they are still a complete pleasure to use.

Out on the course, the exquisite turf interaction remains a standout highlight, courtesy of the Tour V.T. Sole technology. Engineered with a proprietary combination of sole widths, bounce angles, and notching, it delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of playing conditions. I have always found it a massive feel enhancer, helping me to maintain clubhead speed through impact, promoting nice, crisp contact from virtually any lie.

Aside from these nuanced tweaks, it is very much as you were, which is a magnificent thing.

I strongly believe the ZXi7 will remain one of, if not the go-to non-contracted tour player choice, and will comfortably keep a lot of low-to-mid handicap players very happy this season.

Srixon has officially introduced a brand new model to its flagship iron family: the ZXi5+, a fully forged, hollow-body players' distance iron designed to replace the outgoing ZXi4.

Created to bridge the gap between raw distance and tour-authentic shaping, the ZXi5+ combines stronger lofts, longer blade lengths, and a wider sole into a remarkably sleek, player-focused footprint.

The moment you set the ZXi5+ down behind the ball, the visual differences from the ZXi4 are immediately apparent. The significantly thinner topline makes the look of the ZXi5+ a lot sleeker than the club it replaces, giving it a streamlined appearance that will undoubtedly help place it into the bags of golfers much further down the handicap spectrum.

Furthermore, this is one of the least offset irons I have seen of its type in the entire game - a massively welcome addition to a player's distance iron category typically populated by heavy, and occassionally distracting offset.

That said, as a sucker for a smooth curve, I must admit I marginally preferred the overall silhouette of the ZXi4. The ZXi5+ is just a little more angular in its shaping, though its compact proportions still look fantastic down behind the ball.

I wonder whether the introduction of the superb game improvement ZXiR irons has allowed Srixon to shift these irons' appeal slightly towards the better player. It would make sense.

Where the ZXi5+ makes an undeniable visual leap forward is in its 'in the bag' appeal...

The rear cavity profile is noticeably neater and far more refined. The smarter all-black paint fill offers an exceptionally classy look, and keeping a uniform, cohesive finish across the back of the head - rather than splitting it into two contrasting textures as was present on the ZXi4 - helps to elevate the overall aesthetic. It looks like a pure, high-end tour iron sitting in the staff bag.

Performance-wise, these irons are undeniably hot. Given the aggressive spec sheet featuring a 29.5° 7-iron and a 43° pitching wedge, high ball speed output was always guaranteed, but the launch monitor numbers are truly eye-opening.

What impressed me most was how outrageously good these are off-center. Strikes out of the toe or heel were so stable that my GC3 launch monitor barely blinked; looking solely at the ball flight and carry numbers, quite frankly, you would have no idea whether a shot was flushed out of the sweet spot or severely mishit.

Crucially, Srixon hasn't muted the impact sensation to achieve this. As someone who values tactile feedback, I love that you can still tell precisely where you made contact through your fingers, even while the ball speed retention keeps your distance intact.

Underneath the club, Srixon’s acclaimed Tour V.T. Sole does what it always does: enhances overall feel while heaping on ground versatility across a wide variety of lies. Whether sweeping off tight links turf or digging through heavy rough, the entry and exit through impact are effortless.

Overall, the expanded ZXi range this season represents one of the most seamlessly 'combo-able' iron families in modern golf. The ZXi5+ will likely become an instant fan favourite in the long-iron slot for low-to-mid handicappers and tour pros alike - lest we forget, the iron already has an Open Championship on its resume after Ryan Fox employed it for victory.

For players seeking maximum speed, minimal offset, and forged feel in a forgiving package, Srixon has hit a home run.

The ZXi iron family from Srixon has been a roaring success over the years, and in this review, I am going to be presenting my findings on the second-generation 'mid-cavity' style iron of the family, the new ZXi5.

Following on from the exceptional first-generation ZXi5 irons, this model has a lot to live up to if it wants to be considered one of the best golf irons in the game.

To cut right to the chase: the main performance elements and design of the iron have barely changed since its last iteration. But why would they? It was a fantastic iron last time round, so more of the same is very welcome news.

From a tech point of view, Srixon says it has mainly focused on the enhancement of feel this time around and has done so by evolving its new i-FORGED platform. This breakthrough in iron metallurgy combines proprietary condensed forging techniques with carefully controlled heat-softening procedures.

This process strengthens specific high-stress areas around the grooves for durability while maintaining incredibly soft material properties throughout the rest of the clubhead. To ensure this is executed flawlessly, every second-generation ZXi iron is forged by Endo Manufacturing in Japan, widely recognized as one of the world's premier forging facilities.

As Joe Miller, Srixon European Product Manager, noted, every decision was made with feel in mind, delivering the rewarding sensation golfers instantly recognise "when they've hit one pure."

Visually, the ZXi5 remains excellent, delivering barely detectable refinements.

The shaping and topography of the cavity section have slightly softened and are not quite as pronounced. Crucially, the toplines, when I put them side by side with last year's offering, look a touch slimmer. These are both changes that better players will absolutely love, creating a cleaner, more compact appearance at address.

The cohesive family aesthetic also remains, meaning blade lengths and offset progressions are tuned for seamless combo set integration, particularly if you want to mix these with the new ZXi7 or ZXiU utility irons.

From a performance perspective, I found this second-generation ZXi5 equally as impressive as last time around. Much like its predecessor, aside from the impressive ball speed and distance output, the main thing that struck me was the sheer quality of the feel.

Often, when testing irons, as the distance goes up, you compromise on softness and feedback. That is absolutely not the case here. The sensation at strike is one of controlled power with minimal vibration.

When you couple this pure strike with the exceptional turf interaction of Srixon’s Tour V.T. Sole - engineered with a proprietary blend of sole widths, bounce angles, and notching - you get cleaner, more consistent contact from virtually any lie, helping you maintain clubhead speed through the turf.

Overall, the theme of this review is that very little has changed from the previous model. However, much like the new ZXi7, which I have also reviewed, more of the same in this instance is a very good thing.

The new ZXi5 remains a remarkably strong offering for the mid-to-low handicap player seeking a traditional 'player' style look that still packs a hefty punch in the distance and forgiveness departments.

A budget-friendly Garmin rangefinder? You have my undivided attention.

Say hello to the Approach Z10, the latest Garmin rangefinder that also happens to now be the cheapest, coming in at a mere £249.99/$299.99. Just because it is the lowest priced option in the Garmin family, however, doesn’t mean it is basic in terms of features - in fact, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Unbox the Z10 from its subtle yet sophisticated packaging and you’re met with the most compact Garmin rangefinder the brand has ever produced. It’s not quite as small as the likes of the Bushnell Pro XM or A1-Slope, but it is definitely slightly smaller than the average-sized model like the Garmin Approach Z30. Tipping the scales at just 178g, it's one of the lightest, too.

Ultimately, like many of the best golf rangefinders, it looks great. The black and white colorway is nothing new from Garmin, but it looks the part. It remains one of the few battery-powered rangefinders in this day and age, but you get a free one included in your purchase and it should last you roughly one year.

In your hands, it won’t feel as premium as devices at the top of the price scale like the Bushnell Tour V7 Shift, for example. You won’t get the same protection from the elements, either, with the Approach Z10 having just IPX4 waterproofing to protect in light to moderate rain showers. It won’t give you the same IPX7 protection as the Garmin Approach Z30, which you could take with you on a scuba diving trip if you wanted (though I wouldn't recommend it), but this isn’t out of the ordinary at this price point.

Now, on to features, as there is one main one to talk about because I absolutely love it. The catch is you need another Garmin device with you like one of the best Garmin golf watches. For the purposes of this review, I used the Garmin Approach S70 to see how the headline feature named ‘Range Relay’ performed in practice.

To simplify, Range Relay combines with your Garmin watch to synchronize distances to your target. If you’re on a 300-yard par 4, for example, you can shoot the flag from the tee box and get that information sent to your wrist. Doing this not only gives you accurate yardages to the flag, it’ll allow you to see exactly where it is on the green in addition to the front and back yardages your watch will give you.

Now for my favorite part - once you shoot the flag on a hole, you won’t have to shoot it again. Your watch will continuously update your yardage to the flag as you walk down the fairway. I was skeptical as to how accurate this would prove, but when I brought out another rangefinder to test this it was never more than two yards out across multiple rounds of golf. Very impressive indeed.

Per Garmin’s website, the Approach Z10 only has a range of 350 yards. However, I found during my testing that if your club has reflectors on the top of flag sticks, the range can extend beyond this boundary.

Other features include those seen on a number of rival rangefinders, but prove very useful nonetheless. The tournament mode is easily accessible by double-pressing the mode button on the top of the device and is indicated to your playing partners by a clear blue light on the side of the device.

I’ve never understood why all brands can’t show a rangefinder is in tournament mode as easily as this, but credit to Garmin for nailing it. It has also nailed the carry case, which stays the same as previous releases and provides a safe refuge for your device.

The ‘Find My’ feature is superb in case you misplace your device on the course, whilst the magnetic mount on the side allows you to stick this to any metal frame and seemingly adds next to nothing to the overall weight - again, I was impressed.

Unfortunately, I was waiting for a catch and I found one almost immediately with the display. I’m not naive enough to think a £250 rangefinder would be flawless, but it feels like the optics you get on the Z10 lag behind those on rangefinders with similar price tags.

It isn’t the brightest display in the world and I felt the course in front of me looked a bit dull. What else was dull was the number feedback you get, which is in black in contrast to the red numbers you’re fed in the Z30. As mentioned though, the Range Relay mode means you only have to use it once a hole! It’s by no means a bad display, it’s just not as good as previous Garmin devices in my opinion.

To conclude, it isn’t quite perfect, but the Approach Z10 is a superb addition to Garmin’s family of lasers. The Range Relay feature will prove very popular for golfers already in the Garmin ecosystem and I imagine it is the type of feature we’ll see more often in the best golf rangefinders going forward.

Combined with a compact form factor, magnetic mount, and handy 'Find My' feature, the Z10 is an easy recommendation and one of the smartest and best budget rangefinders on the market for existing Garmin watch owners.

An app that essentially pays you for playing golf? Yeah right…

No, trust me, it’s legit.

This is GolfN, the app that rewards you to play (their words, not mine). I’ve tested a wide range of the best golf apps for mobile, but none have made such a hefty promise. Naturally, I had my doubts, but after testing this app over around half a dozen rounds and learning more about it over time, the more impressed I have become.

How it works is simple: you play golf, you get reward points. The more you do on the app, the more you earn. For example, if you keep your score, more points. Track shots, more points. Play with friends, more points. Leave a review on the course you just played… you get the idea.

You then take your hard-earned points and spend them as you like. GolfN has a rewards marketplace with multiple different avenues for you to use your points. A Pro Shop lets you browse items ranging from accessories and apparel all the way to full sets of some of the best Srixon irons, but that isn’t all.

You can also use your points to enter giveaways and sweepstakes that include small prizes like a box of golf balls all the way to a dream golf trip to Ireland to play my home course, Royal County Down! For your sake, I hope you don’t bump into me.

I know what you are thinking: what’s the catch? Honestly, there isn’t one. GolfN makes its money through a number of sources including brand partnerships, marketplace sales and memberships (more on that shortly), so there really is no catch.

There are, however, ways to amplify the number of points you can earn. Which one you opt for, if any at all, fully depends on how much golf you play. If you go for a membership higher than the basic level each player begins with, it opens up more ‘club rental’ spots, which gamify your round and offer different multipliers for your points total.

These memberships differ vastly in price - White membership gives you a 4.6x multiplier for $18.75 per month, Silver multiplies your points by 11 for $37.49 per month, whilst Gold will cost you $149.99 a month but multiply your points by 54. Yes, 54.

There’s also the Diamond membership for golfers who essentially live on the golf course, costing $8,900 annually but giving you a 275x multiplier.

Digital club rentals scale directly with your membership level, allowing players to equip up to three clubs per round. Green tier unlocks one club, White tier provides two, while Silver tier and above grant all three available slots (Driver, Iron, and Putter).

Now I’m far from an NFT and/or crypto guy, but bear with while I explain this final part to the best of my ability - these clubs are actually NFTs linked to the Solana blockchain and are tradable. Also, plans call for a dedicated "GOLF" token that will allow players to exchange reward points 1:1 for liquid crypto or cash. Healthy skepticism is warranted until the system launches, but the concept shows serious promise.

As for the actual golf app part, it’s really good! The experience is responsive and easy to use, with a movable cursor showing accurate yardages to wherever you want on the hole courtesy of satellite imagery.

You can add basic stats to each hole like fairways hit, GIRs, number of putts, penalties - as mentioned before, you’ll earn more points doing so. Doing this is worth it even without the dangling carrot of more points - the ‘My Performance’ section of the app is like an Arccos-lite, giving you insights into the strengths and weaknesses of your game.

I think golfers should look at GolfN like a credit card rewards scheme.Yes, you earn rewards, but don’t be under the impression you’ll be jetting off to play Royal County Down with a new set of Srixon golf clubs after 10 rounds.

Like credit cards, the more you pay for one, the better the rewards. You won't strike it rich playing weekend rounds, but it effectively lets you monetize your course time for free gear, giveaway entries, or cash down the line.

If you’re still hesitant, I understand. But why not try it out? I was just as skeptical as you were before I started using it…

Golf watches have undergone a serious revolution over the last half decade. No longer are they simply devices that give you the yardage to the center of the green and little else - the best golf watches have transformed into your own personal trainer on your wrist, walking with you through all your exercise.

The Amazfit Balance 2 was what I’ve come to call an ‘inverted golf watch’, one that started out as a regular fitness watch and incorporated golf, rather than the other way around.

I tested the Balance 2 last year and loved it so much that I’ve worn it daily for the last 12 months. I’ve used it for all facets of my active life including golf, soccer, skiing, hiking and general gym work. I also did a 100-hole hike with it on my wrist earlier this summer, so you can imagine my excitement when I was sent the new and improved Balance 3 for testing.

Amazfit has a clear target audience with its Balance line of watches and the Balance 3 is no different - these devices are built for people for whom sport and physical activities are a big part of their everyday life. To quote the brand directly, this watch is designed for “individuals balancing demanding work, family responsibilities, and disciplined routines”, with the Balance line supporting “a Hybrid Training lifestyle where strength, endurance, and recovery develop together.”

If this sounds like you, superb. You’re in the right place. If not, then maybe this isn’t the right watch for you. However, let me get into the golf side of things before you reach your conclusion - not everyone using this watch HAS to be running half-marathons every month.

Upon unboxing the Balance 3, you’re met with one of the prettiest watches on the market. I loved the orange strap on the Balance 2 and it garnered many compliments over my 12 months wearing it - sadly it is gone, but it is replaced by a black strap that has proven more comfortable for me to wear.

The main change in the looks department is the new 1.5” AMOLED display, which is wonderful. The 3000-nit brightness and sapphire glass ensure excellent visibility, no matter the light conditions. Despite the vibrant display, the battery life is as good as any watch I’ve ever tested, with a charge lasting up to 21 days without the sport features. A full charge will give you up to 41 hours of Accuracy GPS Mode which incorporates sports like golf, running and more.

There are two versions of the Balance 3 to choose from, the stainless steel version I tested (£369.90/$369.99) or the titanium alloy version (£449.90/$449.99), both of which look superb.

Given this publication is named Golf Monthly, I had better talk about the on-course performance of the Balance 3. The golf mode on the Balance 2 was good, but not great. Pleasingly, notable improvements have been made, but it is a case of evolution rather than revolution.

The main improvements come from the hardware. This watch delivers 2.5x faster generation and 12x faster map refreshing than the previous model and this improvement is very evident to me as someone who used the Balance 2 so regularly. Everything is quicker and snappier, from recognizing what hole you are on to the time it takes for the menus to load.

My biggest critique of the Balance 2 only became apparent to me after I wrote the review, but the action button on the top right of the face pressed into my hand during my follow-through, activating the watch’s version of Siri. As I watched my shot fly towards the green, my watch would speak to me and ask me if I needed anything and there was seemingly no way to prevent this. Thankfully, the same button on the Balance 3 is far smaller and this issue is now a thing of the past.

Other than that, there aren’t too many changes on the golf side of things, but that is fine. Yardages were accurate last year and the same can be said for the 2026 version. There are still 40,000+ courses to play, but they still need to be downloaded and sent to your watch before you tee it up (this takes less than a minute). You’ll also get numbers to hazards, bunkers and more, whilst the pin mover feature returns and allows you to really dial in your yardage to the flag.

Your watch will sometimes get confused as to what hole you’re on, especially if you hit an errant drive onto another fairway. This will take some manual input to fix and can be frustrating at times, but it’s only a small issue.

Dedicated golf watches will incorporate more stat-tracking features, but the connected Zepp app does a decent job in collecting the rounds you’ve played and giving you basic stats like greens in regulation and your number of putts. You also get a cool map of where you’ve walked - who doesn’t want that?

The fact of the matter here is that if you want a watch dedicated to golf and golf alone, there are better watches on the market. If you want a watch that does a bit of everything, be that tracking your sports or giving you news and weather, the Balance 3 should absolutely be on your shortlist.

If you’re like me and have fitness and exercise as a major part of your day-to-day life, I’d recommend this watch without hesitation. If not, don’t worry - our guide on the best value golf watches will have something in there for you.

If you are reading this review, I probably don’t need to give you a history lesson on Mizuno Golf. For years now, the brand has been crafting some of the best irons in the game, and its latest release continues that storied tradition.

After spending time testing the new Mizuno Pro S-4, I don’t mind telling you straight away in this review: I absolutely love the simplicity and purity of this iron. In a world full of AI, flexing faces, and high-tech blaring, fussy aesthetics, the Pro S-4 is a beautiful throwback.

Now, that doesn't mean there is zero innovation under the hood.

According to Mizuno, the S-4 stands as the most forgiving tour-inspired iron in Mizuno's expanding Signature Series. Sure, there is some tech involved through CG placement and Mizuno's familiar feel-enhancing copper underlay, but essentially what it is is a neat, pure single piece of brilliantly forged steel, shaped superbly, with a simple cavity for a little playability.

The S-4 introduces a higher-launching player's cavity back profile that is designed to offer greater forgiveness and stability throughout the set. This is achieved through increased offset (although barely perceptible), a marginally wider sole, a lower sweet spot height, and a deeper centre of gravity. Working together, these elements have been designed to help players launch the ball more easily and improve stability on off-centre strikes, while still offering a ‘tour’ look.

Wonderful! I get that; I can understand that! I don't need a physics degree or a 6-page presentation to understand what is in front of me.

To give it some context within the range, maybe think of it as the bigger, friendlier brother of the Pro S-3 (which I also love, by the way). If they were male siblings, you might think the S-3 is the slightly more attractive of the brothers, but at times he could be a little prickly and hard work, maybe even aloof.

The S-4, however, is extremely handsome in his own right, but just a touch more open, friendly, and welcoming, always with a smile on his face - the type of iron you'd be thrilled to be dating your daughter! The S-4 manages this approachable look thanks to a progressive design philosophy that carefully manages offset flow and topline thickness, ensuring a touch more confidence in the longer clubs while maintaining precision in the scoring irons.

Something I love about the whole Mizuno Pro range is the triple-cut sole, which has been specifically engineered to improve turf interaction. Bevelled at both the front and back, and sporting all the right angles, for me, this rivals the Tour VT sole from Srixon for the title of best sole in the game. Extremely versatile, it just seems to cut down time spent in the turf in any conditions while helping maintain speed and consistency through impact.

If I were to drop any personal marks, it would be purely down to the fact that I always gravitate towards a slightly rounder profile in my irons. However, Mizuno loyalists will be thrilled to see the brand sticking to the slightly sharper, more angular visual that the Asian market as a whole seems to prefer, so I can’t even fault it there.

Even so, the redesigned cavity muscle structure with its softer, flowing geometry and premium finish perfectly preserves that clean, compact appearance that defines the Mizuno Pro aesthetic.

These irons were frankly a joy to test, a journey back to simpler times without the marketing bumf! A beautiful, pure, simple set of stunning cavity-back irons. 10/10 Mizuno - no notes.

Golf Monthly’s resident golf bag tester Dan Parker swears by Vessel golf bags, so when I was set to test one for the first time, he simply told me to “enjoy it.”

A strange thing to say, I thought at the time. It’s only a golf bag, right? Then, as I walked down my opening hole during testing, I completely understood what he meant.

Vessel’s reputation as a niche, highly premium golf bag manufacturer is no secret, and the fourth edition of its Sunday Bag elevated the model even further than the Sunday III predecessor by swapping the previously used Diamond X-PAC Ripstop nylon for Tour-Grade Synthetic Leather. The result is the most premium bag I’ve ever used and a contender for the best golf bag money can buy.

Those premium details aren’t blatantly obvious when you unbox the bag upon delivery, which makes it all the more satisfying as you continue discovering them over time. Vessel has opted for a refined, minimalist aesthetic complemented by functional, well-thought-out detailing.

Major touchpoints like the carry handle and valuables pocket zipper feature hand-stitched leather that feels as good as it looks. The three-way divider top is velour-lined, as are the interiors of the valuables pocket and the magnetic rangefinder pocket positioned above the customizable, detachable ball pocket.

The straps? Also velour-lined, of course. You can switch between the double strap, which I prefer while playing, or a single strap if you are heading out with a half set for a quick nine holes.

I am also a massive fan of the handle built into the top cuff, which I found myself grabbing every time I set the bag down. It is sturdy and easy to control, while the leather padding adds another luxury touch.

Once on the course, the bag delivered performance I didn't think possible from a ultra-light carry bag. Drawing on 12 years of experience caddying at Royal County Down, I’ve carried hundreds of golf bags over the years, and none felt as comfortable on my back as the Sunday IV. The self-adjusting Equilibrium 2.0 Double Strap features an eight-point swivel mechanism that adapts to your posture as you walk. I’ve never tested a bag that contours to the body so effortlessly.

The Rotator Stand System also proved flawless during testing, supported by ultra-light carbon fiber legs. All in all, this bag weighs just 4.45 lbs (2.0 kg), yet it never felt flimsy or unstable.

I can also report that the bag held up during a heavy two-hole rain shower during my initial testing round at Ormeau Golf Club in Belfast. The main side pocket accommodated my rain jacket (rolled up to preserve space), and the waterproof zippers kept my accessories and valuables bone dry.

If you carry a lot of extra apparel, removable garment tether loops allow you to secure a sweater or jacket to the exterior, another clever, space-saving feature.

My primary concern heading into the review was capacity: as a Sunday bag, would it realistically house all 14 clubs? Vessel recommends carrying 10 clubs for optimal comfort, but I loaded a full set anyway. Pleasingly, I encountered few to no issues replacing clubs post-shot.

While players with oversized putter grips might find the fit a bit snug, I was thoroughly impressed by how comfortably it accommodated a full 14-club setup.

At £309 or $309, the price point represents great value within the Vessel lineup, serving as an accessible entry point before stepping up to $400+ models like the Player V or Lux Stand bags.

The Sunday IV is easily the best bag I’ve tested this year. It feels like ordering the top-tier wine at a restaurant or upgrading to extra-legroom seats on a flight - sometimes it’s worth treating yourself. Doing so here gets you one of the finest golf bags money can buy and, without a doubt, the best Sunday golf bag on the market.

The Osprey model from Tiger Woods’ Sun Day Red brand aims to sit alongside the best women's spikeless golf shoes. Blending a clean, minimalist trainer look with genuine on-course performance, it promises an effortless transition from the tee to everywhere beyond.

Sizing can always be a bit of a lottery with golf footwear, and these run slightly generous. Being a standard European size 39, which usually translates to a UK 6, testing these in a UK 6.5 proved that going down half a size would likely be a better fit, especially since the materials are bound to loosen up over time. However, my feet certainly weren't swimming, and they felt comfortable and secure enough to walk a full 18 holes right out of the box.

Visually, the Osprey nails a clean, sporty look. Featuring a low-profile silhouette with neat stitching detail, it could easily pass as a stylish lifestyle sneaker if it weren't for the directional nub pattern on the sole. The subtle touch of mint accents across the aerated tongue and heel adds a fresh, modern feel.

Alison Root and Katie Dawkins showcase the latest women's golf fashion - layering, themes and budget comparisons

That said, compared to vibrant or high-profile options on the market, like G/FORE’s G.112 Stripe Kiltie or Under Armour’s Drive Halo Hybrid, some golfers might find these a little understated.

Branding is kept pleasantly understated, which is a big plus for players who prefer a refined aesthetic. The iconic Tiger logo is subtly embossed on the top of the tongue and the rear of the sole, while the Sun Day Red name sits discreetly on the sole and external heel counter, so subtle that you barely notice it's there. Available in three colorways, the light pink model would easily make any list of the best women’s pink golf shoes.

On the course, the Osprey delivered impressive, responsive comfort. The combination of dense tongue foam and a spongy, drop-in EVA midsole absorbs impact exceptionally well as you walk. Despite its soft, casual feel, the technical features hold up when you swing.

I like the external heel counter, as it locks your foot in place and provides the stability you need, while underfoot, the variable omni-directional traction pattern ensures confident strides on any surface without looking like a clunky traditional cleat.

Ultimately, the Sun Day Red Osprey delivers a sleek, all-round performing shoe for female golfers who want a spikeless shoe that moves seamlessly from the fairway to beyond. With premium comfort, subtle branding, and reliable stability, it stands out as a strong new contender as one of the best women's golf shoes.

MGI is a brand that impressed me greatly in 2025. I was a big fan of the ultra-small Sureshot SlimPRO laser, especially given the fact the brand is better known for making some of the best electric golf trolleys and push carts money can buy.

Looking to build on this success, the Australian brand has released a trio of new rangefinders for the 2026 golf season, varying in terms of features and price points to ensure there should be something for every golfer.

In what I’m calling the PINLOC 7000 family, we have the 7000iM ($239), the 7000iPM ($285) and the star of the show in the 7000iPSM ($349), which features a side-screen and is the most feature-packed of the three.

There are plenty of similarities among the models in the family. Other than the screen on the 7000iPSM (which we’ll get to), the three look practically the same bar the color schemes.

In terms of first impressions, I really like the look of each rangefinder and all three felt pleasant as you hold them in hand. They all feature a built-in magnet for those who like to stick them to the frame of their cart and come with a quality carry case, albeit the logo could have been smaller.

Which of the three you opt for depends on what features you want; the 7000iM is a simple ‘pick-up-and-shoot’ rangefinder, with no slope, pin lock vibration or any other bells and whistles. The only difference between this model and the 7000iPM is the latter gives you pin lock vibration to confirm you have the correct distance when shooting the flag.

The lack of slope is a little disappointing in a rangefinder at this price considering the competition in the market these days, but both the 7000iM and the 7000iPM performed admirably during my testing, if somewhat unremarkably.

Before focusing on the 7000iPSM, I must mention all three devices share commendable qualities like clear 6x magnification optics, a PINLOC feature that displays your yardage on screen for 15 seconds post-measurement and ultra-fast yardage feedback to ensure your pace of play keeps moving. These sorts of qualities are becoming a necessity to be considered in the running for the best golf rangefinders, so props to MGI here for the execution.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the 7000iPSM. As a very forgetful person, I love rangefinders with a side screen that displays your distance, so I welcome the inclusion of the 1.69-inch external display here.

I also wonder why we don't see a feature like this on more rangefinders. None of the best Bushnell rangefinders feature a side screen, for example, but some devices like the Mileseey GenePro G1 have gone a step further and incorporated hole maps, executing it very well.

It doesn't even have to be a feature reserved for the most premium models either; the Cigman CT1200-Pro has one and it costs less than $100! In an age where rangefinders are gaining more and more features whilst also becoming more complicated, this simple design element feels like a no-brainer in a world where we're so used to viewing screens everywhere, all the time.

As I expected with MGI, accuracy was spot on, too. I tested this laser at both Royal County Down and Ormeau Golf Club in Belfast against rangefinders double the price and the MGI went toe-to-toe with them in terms of yardage accuracy.

All three models have a helpful scan mode, which I find works best on golf courses I am unfamiliar with and thus need more information in terms of distances to the likes of bunkers, tree run outs and other hazards.

As for the price, the 7000iPSM comes in at $349. This isn’t an eye-watering price tag but it certainly can’t be considered in the bracket of the best budget rangefinders. At this price, it battles the likes of the Blue Tees Captain Pro, the new Garmin Z10 and the Bushnell Tour V7 Shift, which is a tough company to fight off.

The Captain Pro in particular has a greater range of features, but ultimately not all golfers want the same thing and too many features can be a real turn off for a player who wants to keep it simple. The 7000iPSM does the basics really well, and the rest of the 7000 family offers golfers an entry-point at a range of prices to suit their budgets.

Everybody needs a distance measuring device of some sort and the benefits of tracking your shots on the course are well documented. But I’m not sure I’ve experienced a product that does both as conveniently as the Smart Caddie app.

Powered by the Golf Zon cloud, the Smart Caddie app is, as the name suggests, a smart watch app that works with iOS and Android devices to provide a host of strategy-enhancing features. I used it for multiple rounds at three different courses using my Apple Watch Series 9 to properly put it through its paces - is it one of the best golf GPS apps money can buy?

First things first, you have to pair the app on the watch with the app on your accompanying smartphone - simple enough. To get the most out of the Smart Caddie, you also need to make sure all your Health settings are enabled - again, no big deal.

Get to the course and open up the Smart Caddie app on your watch. Hit play and for me, the course appeared within seconds. Hit select and everything will come to life once you get to the first tee.

The level of detail this app goes into is genuinely mind blowing, and it’s presented in a way that is both readable and accessible on what is a relatively small screen. The opening screen displays the front, middle and back yardages as well as an aerial view of the hole. Other information shown includes the hole number, par, score, the time and how many shots have been tracked.

That last point may have taken you aback. But that’s right, the app automatically tracks your shot locations for you! And it does it very effectively, without the need for any sensors in your clubs. Previous experiences with other shot trackers has proven hit and miss, with shots often being missed - but Smart Caddie never missed one, nor did it add one erroneously.

While it doesn’t track putts, when you finish each hole the watch will vibrate and you’re greeted with a screen where you can manually confirm your score and the number of putts taken. Try not to miss it as you can’t then edit that score until after your round on your phone. The app also doubles as a simple but effective GPS app with accurate graphical representations of each hole and touch targeting.

Back to the playing of each hole - if you tap the screen with your finger you get a full view of the hole with a touch distance feature, which lets you see the distance to the place you want to get to or avoid. This really came in handy when trying to hit to the fat part of the fairway, or seeing how far it was around doglegs where a rangefinder cannot provide the line of sight measurement.

On approach shots, if you swipe your finger up you can view the green undulation feature. This is essentially a heat map (red is the high spots, blue is the low) that gives you a flavour of the general slope of the green. Some of the subtle breaks were missing on the courses I played, and it’s not available for every course (but most will have it), but it certainly helps you understand the side to miss if you want to keep your ball below the hole.

There were some other cool features that really came in handy. The first being the live distance measurement, so once you’ve tracked your tee shot and move towards your ball, the distance will count up in real time. It was really useful to know how far you hit your driver on a given day or course - distances can change drastically depending on the firmness of the ground or the strength of the wind, so to know how far you really hit it on the course that day should inform better strategy for the rest of the round.

It also helps when you’ve hit your ball in the thick rough and are trying to determine roughly how far up the hole it went in order to locate it, providing you know how far you hit each club!

If you do, you can enter them in the smartphone app before your round and the watch app will then provide club recommendations for each shot. The distances can even factor changes in elevation, providing another layer of accuracy that not many other watch app are capable of.

One I didn't try was the swing practice feature, which lets you analyse the tempo of your swing by timing the backswing and downswing - which could be handy prior to your round to establish your optimum rhythm, if you know it.

After your round, the stats sync automatically to your phone and you can review or edit your score and shot locations. You can even add the clubs hit for each shot, which will then populate your actual club distances for better club choices next time round.

You get some basic data points like putts taken and greens in regulation, which tallied pretty well with the shots that were tracked.

All of the features I experienced (and thoroughly enjoyed) come with a subscription cost of either $9.99 a month, $49.99 a year or $129.99 for three years. Users can only use the course preview function via the mobile app without purchasing the subscription but anyone who signs up can get 1-day free trial.

How much you play and commit to the app long term will determine the value for money here but assuming you already own a compatible watch, the price seems very appealing to me.

In all honesty, I’m not familiar with many apps that do as much as this one so comprehensively - especially tracking shots automatically and factoring slope - these are two huge pluses when it comes to the proposition of Smart Caddie.

While its real expertise lies in the shot tracking market courtesy of its excellent smart sensors, smart grips and even the new Arccos Air, the Smart Laser is Arccos’ first move into the rangefinder category.

In what is already a crowded and ultra-competitive market, can Arccos incorporate the best parts from its shot-tracking abilities into a rangefinder to help it stand out from the competition?

The answer, in short, is yes. The Smart Laser fully integrates with the Arccos app and not only complements your shot tracking software (if you have it), but performs as a one of the best golf rangefinders even without these unique features.

I’ll get onto those in a moment, but I always begin my reviews talking about my first impressions of each rangefinder and this article is no different. There isn’t any ‘wow’ factor with the Smart Laser, but that isn’t a critique. Instead, you get a device that looks slick, has a solid build quality and appropriate weight alongside handy rubber grips on each side. It also comes with an unspectacular but seemingly robust carry case that features a nice pop of Arccos green around the zip.

Once you raise the device to your eye, you are met with a crisp red LED backlit display with 6.1x magnification, as good as anything I’ve tested this year. Beyond its smart features, it functions excellently as a standard rangefinder, producing quick and accurate distances and near automatic flag location, even against cluttered backgrounds.

It vibrates after each measurement, which is a feature I think should be reserved for when you have successfully shot the flag to ensure you haven’t got a yardage to the foliage behind the green. I also feel like a rangefinder this technologically advanced should have a ‘find my laser’ feature like we’re becoming accustomed to seeing on top-level models. Nit-picking aside, as a pick-up-and-shoot laser, it is very impressive.

Now for the good stuff: once you shoot your target, you are met with three different numbers. The first is the yardage as the crow flies, but the second is where it gets fun. The “Smart Distance” reading provides an exceptionally accurate "plays like" distance by pulling real-time data from the Arccos app it has been paired with that factors in slope, elevation, temperature, and wind, which proved highly reliable during testing. It's without doubt one of the best golf rangefinders with slope as a result.

I tested the Smart Laser at Royal County Down, a course where I fight against the elements all too often, making it an ideal place to test whether the “plays like” distances were reliable. The signature, downhill par-three 4th hole plays roughly 190 yards but typically turns into the prevailing wind - I’ve hit everything from 8 iron to fairway woods on that tee over the years.

I've played over a dozen rounds with the Smart Laser and the adjusted yardage was spot on each time. In fact, there were three rounds in a row with different winds and therefore different yardage recommendations and they were all accurate.

Alongside actual distance and "Smart Distance," the viewfinder displays a third number based on peak wind gusts; while it sounds redundant, it provides valuable confidence and club selection clarity when caught between clubs in windy conditions.

If you’re already a subscriber to Arccos, your Smart Laser will also automatically tag and set the precise pin location every time you shoot the flag, which drastically improves the accuracy of your approach and putting data without manual entry.

Now, for the controversial part. At $299/£279, it seems remarkable value for money when you factor in the unique features on offer. However, there is a catch - you need a subscription.

Maybe this shouldn’t be a surprise considering Arccos shot tracking also requires a subscription, but if you have Arccos Air or the Smart Sensors, you’ll need a separate subscription for those in addition to your Smart Laser subscription, both of which are $199.99 a year (the first year is free).

Your initial $299 payment for the device itself only gets you in the door, meaning once you’re inside the Arccos ecosystem, it’ll cost you extra a year to stay there and get the most out of your device. While I understand the reasoning behind why Arccos has done this with the Smart Laser, $199.99 a year in addition to your shot tracking subscription represents a serious financial commitment.

What's more is the Smart Laser will only work with an active subscription, which means you won't get as much as a simple yardage if you aren't subscribed. So to coin a phrase from the poker world, you're pot committed - and say you use it for three years, that will set you back the best part of $700.

That said, there is a bundle discount if you buy a game-tracking and Smart Laser subscription together. Combining the two together will set you back $299.99 per year, saving you $100 a year compared to buying the two separately. Still tough, not exactly cheap.

Buying the Arccos Smart Laser is therefore more than a simple distance measuring device purchase; it’s a commitment. If you pay the money, you get a tremendous device that has some of the most intuitive features and unprecedented accuracy I’ve seen on a rangefinder that also complements your shot tracking subscription if you’re already an Arccos golfer.

There is more on the way, too. Arccos is constantly working on software updates and improvements to the Smart Laser software are in the works, including improved weather data and personal club recommendations. No other rangefinder I've tried provides automatic weather and wind data displayed directly into the viewfinder, so I'm excited to see how that looks.

So there you have it. This is an amazing rangefinder, without question. The catch is this will cost you a pretty penny - whether that level of investment is worth it is completely dependent on what you want from your tech and how often you get on the course.

We all know how important it is to have a stable connection with the ground during each golf shot. It leads to confident swings and proper weight shift, which is always a prominent swing thought for me. The best women’s golf shoes can either make or break this feeling, which is why I was especially excited to test the new SQAIRZ Ultra Tour-Lite, which is designed with foot stabilizing technology to improve swing speed and connection with the ground.

Overall, I did feel an extra level of stability, especially on wood chips and off the tee. The design takes a multi-faceted approach to create that level of traction. The patented toe box has a unique square shape (hence the name) that’s very comfortable and roomy, and gave me a consistent feeling from heel to toe.

I have fairly narrow feet, but the fit felt appropriate, balanced throughout. Because of the widened toe box, there was no soreness on the side of my pinky toe, which I’ve experienced after a long round with other classic-style shoes. I played 27 holes and my feet were feeling as good on the last hole as they did on the first.

The soles pack a lot of punch with 6 replaceable soft spikes placed on the foot’s pressure points, plus 290 traction lugs of varying heights to improve all-around grip. I typically play in spikeless shoes, and this spiked sole was a big traction upgrade for me. It gave me the confidence to swing away, and also felt super grounding around the green.

I was impressed by how lightweight they were, despite the wider bottoms and classic- golf shoe design, which can sometimes have a clunky or heavy feel. Looks wise, I prefer a predominately white golf shoe, but I did appreciate the animal print detail in the back. SQAIRZ definitely promotes functionality first, but has recently added to its women’s options, including some fun brightly-colored bottoms. The line also comes in spiked and spikeless and in half sizes to ensure a good fit.

I played without the kilties, but they easily slip back onto the laces if you prefer that extra classic look. There’s even an option to swap out the laces for one of 17 colors. The laces are covered in tiny silicone raised squares that the company ensures won’t come untied during an entire round.

SQAIRZ easily ranks among the best women's waterproof golf shoes because I didn't have to think about my feet once, even while stepping in wet areas. My feet remained dry and comfortable. They felt effortless to swing in, and I can attest that I didn’t need to retie or adjust the laces. If you’re looking for a shoe upgrade, you won’t be disappointed with SQAIRZ.

More golfers are investing in simulators. At least, this is what I’m hearing - and it’s easy to understand why: launch monitors have become more affordable, the technology is getting better, and they come with more games and features.

If you’re a keen player, you have probably pictured having your own sim in the comfort of your home. I know I have.

Maybe you’ve worked out the logistics: Could you justify the expense? Where would it go? How much space would it take up? Those kinds of questions.

Even if there are several more affordable launch monitors on the market and building your own simulator needn’t cost five figures, you still need a fair bit of room to swing a golf club without feeling inhibited.

I have one room in the house where it would be just about viable, as well as a garage that has been cleared of all junk as if in preparation for the day I’m finally given the green light to build my own sim.

However, these are shared spaces. I’ll get to the point: the rest of the family don’t want my golf obsession taking over the living room/garage - and that’s entirely fair enough.

Recently, though, I experienced the Vanish Series retractable golf enclosure from SportScreen, a Canadian company that specializes in retractable screens.

And the dream of having my own simulator to play and practice on until I have blisters on my hands is well and truly alive again.

Should you have had the pleasure of installing your own simulator at home or in the office, the enclosure, although a key part of the kit, is probably not the piece of equipment that generated the most excitement for you. That would be the launch monitor.

However, as mentioned, the enclosure is a very important part of the set-up. You could have one of the best launch monitors on the market, but you won’t get much joy out of it if you don’t invest in a decent enclosure.

And then there’s the issue of flexibility. A lot of enclosures aren't really designed for being put up and down continuously - they’re rather fixed, and that can be a deal breaker.

The Vanish Series is different, for it’s retractable. It might not be the ‘glamour purchase’ when it comes to home sim set-ups, but it all feels very slick and exciting when you get a remote control in your hand and watch your room switch from sim set-up to garage/living space in super quick time.

On the remote control, this is also compatible with home automation systems (for example, Google Home, Alexa, etc.), while for the more budget-conscious customers, there is a hand-crank option.

First up, though, let’s talk quickly about the installation. Everything you need comes with the package: impact support membrane, impact screen, side screens, ceiling panel, corner pieces, side baffles, front baffle, wall/ceiling brackets, and assembly hardware.

The installation itself isn’t especially difficult - doable on your own but much quicker and more advisable if you work as a pair. I had some help from a PGA expert, and a power tool or two does make things quicker and easier.

If, like me, DIY is not your thing, I’m told the tech support line is very good, and there is plenty of helpful information and live support online at thesportscreen.com. Basically, you shouldn’t be left feeling like you’re out of your depth!

Now, it’s called ‘Vanish’ because that’s exactly what it does - it disappears. One click on the button on your remote control and the impact screen folds itself up to give you your room back.

Are the mounting brackets going to be an eyesore in your living room? Perhaps. they're a little obtrusive, yes, although this is less likely to be an issue if you install your sim in a spare room or the garage.

Once you’re up and running, there’s no need to worry about any loose balls escaping. The impact screen, side panels, and baffles are of very good, reliable quality.

We’re talking about a really heavy-duty, premium impact screen that is not only very effective, but also displays the graphics very crisply. I tested the Vanish with the Square Golf launch monitor, and the screen provided a superb canvas for very clear projection.

Perhaps one of the biggest compliments I can give the Vanish Series is how good it looks even when you don’t have your launch monitor and you're playing a beautiful course: it has a very premium look and feel.

That might mean you just choose to leave it up. However, if you do need the space, just click that button…

Ping’s G Le4 family is the fourth generation of a range that has been a popular choice for female golfers since 2017. Designed specifically for swing speeds of 80mph or less, the lightweight range offers a complete, full-bag setup. Having played the G Le3 iron, I was keen to test this latest launch and see how its updated iron technology compares on the course.

Aesthetically, Ping has hit the mark with the new purple colourway, it feels modern, sophisticated, and sleek. One of my favourite visual updates is the shaft: moving away from the two-tone white and blue design of the G Le3 to a single, solid colour. Looking down at address with just that clean, uniform shade showing creates a streamlined, classy view over the ball. I also like the tacky Golf Pride grips as they sat comfortably and securely in my hands.

Technologically, Ping has engineered these stainless-steel irons as a lightweight iron/hybrid combo solution to ensure seamless set gapping. They feature a thinner face, a lower centre of gravity, and custom-engineered lofts to maximise ball speed, while high-density tip and toe weights push forgiveness right to the perimeter. Tucked behind the face is a multi-material PurFlex cavity badge to encourage consistent face flexing while delivering a soft, pleasing feel and sound at impact.

I found that this engineering translates into an exceptionally lightweight feel that makes the clubs effortless to swing. You can simply let the clubhead do the work without feeling the need to force power behind the ball. Forgiveness is impressive; my off-centre flew surprisingly straight and maintained consistent distance.

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Where I noticed a genuine leap, however, was on pure strikes. When I hit the ball right out of the sweet spot, my carry distance was noticeably further than with the G Le3. It wasn't an absurd jump, but it was a distinct, repeatable increase, and I can promise you that was strictly down to the clubs, not a sudden improvement in my swing!

As for the wedges (PW, UW, SW), while the sand wedge was the undisputed star of the show in the G Le3 line-up, the G Le4 wedges share the spotlight more evenly with the rest of the irons this time around. Their clean profile and comfortable feel gave me a lot of confidence over tricky short game shots, making getting up and down feel far less intimidating!

Ping continues to deliver thoughtful engineering that makes the game feel far more accessible. If you're in the market for one of the best golf irons for women on the market, the G Le4 family deserves a very close look.

Short game is all about confidence and control, and having a club that meets your specific needs both technically and visually is half of the battle. With five grinds available, the new TaylorMade Hi-Toe 5 wedge can easily be fitted into any golfer's bag and joins the MG5 model as a forged wedge option from the brand.

I recently got my hands on them and put them through their paces in the Golf Monthly performance lab as well as out on the golf course to see if you should consider them as a new addition to your set-up.

When it comes to the aesthetics, I am a massive fan of the clean backing to the wedge and the subtle T-Bug logo positioned neatly at the top. It gives the club a distinctly premium, uncluttered look in the bag, while the Copper finish demands attention. You can also opt for Satin Chrome through custom orders, or explore the MyHi-Toe 5 configurator for Charcoal Black and Tour Raw finishes.

As someone who has typically played a smaller-profile wedge, the Hi-Toe 5 is quite the change visually when you set it down behind the ball. The expanded toe area and larger overall profile take a brief moment to get used to.

However, once I started hitting shots, I understood how the performance benefits of having those full-face grooves make complete sense, particularly when opening the face on finesse and bunker shots. Having that massive hitting surface instantly boosts your confidence when resting the club behind the ball and will definitely please golfers who have been struggling with their short games and want one of the most forgiving wedges.

Each wedge in the Hi-Toe 5 family is now fully forged from soft carbon steel - something completely new for the Hi-Toe franchise, helping deliver a softer, much more responsive feel at impact. The precision tolerances of the forged head produce incredibly consistent feedback, something that tour players look for in their wedges.

The Hi-Toe 5 wedges also benefit from the same full-face saw-milled grooves found in the MG5, extending them from the heel to the toe for versatility when you want to get creative around the greens.

As someone who likes to open the face up around the greens and especially from deep bunkers and cut across the ball, I often find my strike pattern leans towards the toe. After just a few shots, I noticed how much more my ball was grabbing on the green from these shots than with my traditional faced wedges.

I took the 54° Hi-Toe 5 wedge into the Golf Monthly performance lab to use my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, in order to gather some data on these wedges and truly see what the new design has to offer. I hit a series of targeted 50-yard pitch shots to gauge the consistency, flight, and spin capabilities.

The soft feel on the 54° wedge I tested helped me regularly dial in that 50-yard range I was looking for in order to gather my data. The ball speed sat at 52.9 mph, and the wedge produced a wonderfully controlled launch angle of 26.9° - a degree or two lower than I have seen in some of the best wedges I have tested recently, such as the Cleveland RTZ2 and Ping S259. The peak height measured out at a trajectory of 27 feet, which was nice and low, where I felt as though I was in full control of the flight.

Generating over 7600 rpm of spin on a 50-yard pitch is exactly where this wedge proves its worth. The combination of the sharp saw-milled grooves and the soft forged feel allowed me to flight the ball nicely, where I felt as though I was in full control, all while generating serious stopping power.

With five sole grind options - including the incredibly versatile ATS that I preferred and the wide-soled ATW for maximum forgiveness out of bunkers, the Hi-Toe 5 gives you all the tools required to dial in your short game. Priced at $199/£179 standard or $249/£209 for the MyHi-Toe 5 personalisation programme, it’s at a competitive price point, but one that absolutely pays dividends when you need to save strokes around the green.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GTS300 Key Specifications:

Head Volume: 305cc

Standard Loft: 13.0° (SureFit Hosel Adjustable)

Standard Length: 43.5"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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