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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WATCH: See the Titleist GTS2 fairway wood in action

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trident Align is the world's first fully adjustable ball marker and has been deemed legal for tournament play by USGA and R&A. Why would you need to adjust the line on your ball marker, I hear you ask?

Well firstly, it allows the golfer to begin fine-tuning the aim of their putt even when the ball is not in place on the ground. The Trident Align has a fairly weighty black base and sitting on top is the adjustable white section, which can slide round to the left or right.

WATCH: We outline why Trident Align was selected for Editor's Choice in 2026

The idea being that you are able to do the lining up you would normally do with the ball standing over your marker while others are putting out, in theory speeding up play. While there are some situations where doing this might put off your playing partners, having the option should the circumstances allow can certainly come in handy and have the potential to speed up play.

The second benefit of the Trident shape is that it ensures the long line is exactly parallel to the ground. For a golfer using a line on their golf ball to putt, the line sitting at 90° is critical. If the line is tilted or rotated in either direction it effects how and where the golfer perceives their aim to be when they stand over the putt.

The square shape that is created between the ball and marker ensures this 90° position is replicated and that you're lined up to exactly where you want to do.

This is a clever design that gives you the confidence that the line is positioned correctly, although it can be difficult to get the ball sit in exactly the position you want it to when putting it back.

Visually, there's a lot going on with the markings on your ball, which could put you off a little on shots taken away from the green. That said, the system is especially helpful on the greens and well worth trying for golfers that struggle with their aim or starting the ball on their intended line.

We also like the extra clubface line, which helps set the face perpendicular to the long alignment line.

The Trident Align costs around £30, which is admittedly quite a lot for a ball marker, but for this you get a 25mm marker coin, the stencil tool, a Sharpie marker pen and a carrying pouch for convenient storage.

It comes in two versions, the standard Trident Align and the metal version which offers even greater stability when adjusting your aim and for those looking to "groove" that feel at home or on the practice putting green, the Trident Align marker is supported by the Transform Mirror and Tri-Roll balls to reinforce your setup.

LA Golf has always thrived as a high-end disruptor, carving out a niche with radical shafts and avant-garde driver faces.

However, the brand’s recent trajectory has shifted from bold innovation to a series of sudden, strategic pivots. With the UK site in heavy clearance and the US site reduced to a minimal placeholder following reports of significant restructuring, the company’s future in hardware feels increasingly precarious.

This foray into clubs has been a rollercoaster. We watched the brand develop bespoke prototypes with Bryson DeChambeau, only for that high-profile partnership to dissolve before the clubs ever saw a tournament bag.

While the headlines focused on those experimental projects, I was quietly testing something much more refined: the CB-26 player’s cavity back. It was meant to be their mainstream masterpiece. But as the brand’s retail presence fades, these irons have effectively become ghosts of a release that may never truly arrive. Having already gone to the effort of testing them, I decided to put the review out there anyway - if only as a tribute to what could have been.

The previous iron efforts I had seen from LA Golf amounted to a brief glimpse of some curved face prototypes, specifically for DeChambeau; however, the more traditional MB and CB models have clearly struck a chord with Sergio Garcia, who has been spotted testing and gaming a combo set of both.

Sitting in the bag, the shelf appeal of the LA Golf CB-26 is undeniable. Forged from 1020 carbon steel, the CBs feature a gorgeous premium matte finish that reduces glare and looks very high-end. The visible weight port in the back cavity gives off a strong industrial vibe, reminiscent of the classic Callaway Apex CBs, which is meant as a definite compliment in my book.

At the address, the club presents a profile that demands good ball striking. You get a fairly thin, rolled topline and minimal offset that frames the ball beautifully. However, I did find the toe profile slightly jarring. To my eye, the toe protrudes a bit too aggressively, creating a somewhat angular aesthetic rather than the soft, curved transition back to the topline that I usually prefer to see.

It’s a subjective critique - and perhaps I’m being overly fussy - but it’s a distinct visual trait that some may love, and others, such as myslef may question.

Strike the ball out of the middle of the CBs, and the sensation offers a good, solid thud. It is certainly not firm, but it doesn't quite possess that deep, melting softness you get from the absolute best-in-class forgings like the Mizuno Pro S3 or the TaylorMade P7CB. It’s a "business-like" feel - crisp, direct, and honest.

In terms of data, the results are exactly what you would anticipate from a classically lofted forged cavity iron (the 7-iron sits at a fairly traditional 33°). Nothing jumps off the page in terms of distance, but that isn't the point of this club.

What is fascinating is how closely the CB-26 mirrors the performance of its sibling, the MB-26. The feel and flight characteristics are almost identical, which may explain why Sergio Garcia found it so easy to blend them.

During my testing, the only discernible differences were a marginally (and I do mean minuscule) higher launch angle from the CB, and, if I am really clutching at straws, perhaps a touch more ball speed retention on mishits.

However, it is difficult to quantify the latter definitively, as no two mishits are created equal, and there is often a "placebo effect" of confidence when switching from a blade to a cavity back.

Where this iron truly separates itself is in the build quality and components. I am a huge fan of the weight ports allowing swing weight adjustments exactly where they should be - behind the strike. This avoids the need for tip weights, which can alter the CG or the application of unsightly lead tape.

Additionally, the stock shaft offering is tremendous. I tested the L-Series 120i graphite model in 5 flex (X-Stiff), and the stability was hugely impressive.

I've conducted several 'What's In The Bag' interviews over the past few years where players have been using the L-Series shafts, and it has now become clear why. It offers the tight dispersion of steel with the vibration-dampening qualities of graphite, making for a potent combination.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the LA Golf CB-26.

It is a genuine shame that these will likely never see a full public release. In a market crowded with "safe" designs from the major OEMs, the CB-26 was a sophisticated, high-performance alternative that allowed for incredible custom-build precision. To see such a polished product reach the finish line only to vanish into the vacuum of a corporate restructuring is a loss for gear enthusiasts.

The CB-26 isn't just a good iron; it’s a haunting reminder of a hardware dream that may be over before it truly began.

It wasn't long ago that the best remote control electric trolleys were just a toy for that one really rich guy you knew at the golf club. Now, with more social acceptance of the remote trolley and more brands than ever making them, they've never been more accessible or more enjoyable for the average golfer to use.

With lower prices very much in mind, let me introduce you to Navee, a brand that has entered the UK market with a seriously competitively priced remote electric trolley, looking to disrupt the stranglehold the likes of Motocaddy, PowaKaddy and Stewart Golf currently have on this part of the market.

Navee is a Chinese company that specialises in electric scooters but has entered the golf market seemingly with one task in mind: undercut everyone. We've already tested the brand's Birdie 3X trolley, which is ostensibly the same trolley you see here but with added Follow technology, and now it was time for the slightly pared-back model to be put through its paces.

I'll cut straight to the chase. The Birdie 3 Remote retails at £799.99 here in the UK. That's the best part of £300 cheaper than the RRP of the 2026 version of the Motocaddy ME Remote, the cheapest model from the much more established powerhouse that is Motocaddy.

There are some even cheaper options than the Navee. The Alphard Club Booster V2 - which is a rear chassis addition to a push cart rather than being a full model - is only around £500, and a Ben Sayers remote trolley, around £699, is available too. I haven't tested this yet, but at a glance online, it doesn't fill me with excitement.

That leaves the Navee as the cheapest, purpose-built remote trolley available for purchase in the UK. It's great to see remote models slowly but surely become more accessible in terms of price point, but at what cost in terms of functionality and pleasure does this cut-price RRP afford us? Sadly, a little too much for my liking.

One of the most frustrating elements of the Navee starts on its very first use. Though the setup is pretty quick (bar the bizarre, instructionless umbrella holder and phone mount that comes with it), once you fire the Navee up, it beeps every time you press start or stop.

While not ear-piercingly loud, it's one of those noises that, once you hear it, you can't unhear it. Quite quickly, it becomes a very annoying presence during your round of golf. Though I tried, it can't be turned off, and makes you an immediate enemy of your playing partners, anyone within earshot and, eventually, yourself.

I had multiple occasions where I wanted to stop my trolley to let someone hit their shot, only for the beeping noise to interrupt their pre-shot routine over the ball. After the countless times you have to start and stop the trolley during a four-hour round of golf, you come off the course feeling like you've gone 12 rounds in the boxing ring with R2D2, rather than the sense that a relaxing round of golf has been enjoyed.

I get the sense this is a product developed by people who aren't regular golfers. Sure, the beeping has likely been implemented as a 'safety' feature to let the golfer know their command has been understood by the trolley. Makes sense on scooters, sure, but not here on the golf course.

Sadly, this set the testing procedure off to a poor start, but all was not lost for the Navee. Credit where credit is due, this is a very stable model once it's running on the course. I like the dual front wheels, which offer a much wider and more stable base than some of the single front wheel remote models on the market. Both of the front wheels are also on a 360° pivot, which makes for excellent and quick manoeuvrability, too.

Including a phone mount is a nice touch, doubled by the free one-year subscription to the premium version of the Hole 19 GPS app. Widely regarded as one of the best golf GPS apps you can get on your phone, this is a really neat added touch from Navee that effectively turns this into a full-featured remote GPS at half the cost of the major brands like PowaKaddy's RX12 GPS.

Unfortunately, the Birdie 3 doesn't come with a built-in gyroscope, meaning it can't track straight when traversing a side slope. That means gravity will have its merry way with the Navee unless you provide constant corrections as you walk up a fairway with any sort of sideways camber. It often means having to apply more input than you would on even the best push cart or best standard electric trolley.

In terms of overall weight, it's actually a little lighter than most of its competitors. It's still heavy, though, as all remote trolleys are. It folds relatively compactly, though it would be good to see a folding mechanism added to the rear stabiliser wheel and also be given the ability to invert the rear wheels to save even more space.

So, the million-dollar question: is the cut-price RRP worth it for the Navee? For me, no. What you gain in an extra bit of money in your back pocket, you lose in usability on the golf course.

Seeing as you spend the best part of four hours with this device while it carries your beloved and expensive golf clubs, the investment of an extra £200-£300 on a much more refined model like the Motocaddy ME over the 7-10 year lifecycle of a trolley will make a lot more financial sense in my opinion.

That being said, a three-year frame warranty with Navee (one more year than you get with PowaKaddy and Motocaddy), and a five-year battery warranty is an excellent offering again, considering the lower RRP. The company even has a UK-based service center based in Scotland.

That shows signs to me that this company is here to stay, which can only be a good thing for competition in what is still a relatively compact sub-category within electric trolleys. I've also been told a new generation is already in development, and hopefully, they'll have had time to read this feedback from my review before they start developing the next generation in earnest.

There's the base of something decent here from Navee, but it lacks the culture and time in the industry that its more established competitors have to iron out some of the creases that come with not having developed golf-specific products for a very long time.

No doubt that will come soon as feedback for the product comes in. If the brand can keep this incredibly appealing price tag on a slightly more refined product next time out, we'll be onto a winner.

I've always been a fan of Big Max golf bags; in fact, I've had two of them previously - Aqua Eight G and Dri Lite Seven G.

They rank among the best waterproof golf bags money can buy, and for good reason, which is why I was excited to test the Big Max Aqua Eight H stand bag, a model that has received a bit of a redesign.

The headline news isn't just the new ErgoFit Disc, which aids carrying, but also the rethought storage space, which has an extra-large cooler bag with a drain function, as well as a soft-touch valuables' bag and well-thought-out organiser pockets.

Off the bat, I was very impressed by the pockets and, indeed, the sheer size of them. Given this is a stand bag, it almost rivals those in the best golf cart bag categories, such is the depth and space of it.

In the cooler bag, I could fit two 600ml Smart water bottles, while the pocket that stored the waterproof cover could also hold a waterproof top and a midlayer comfortably

What I particularly liked was the valuables pocket. Inside, you will find two mesh sections, as well as the main pocket itself, which means I could store my phone, wallet, gloves, keys and even sun cream and bug spray.

Put simply, the storage on offer was exceptional.

For me, the good news doesn't stop there either, as I was very pleased with the work done on the carrying system.

All four straps of the bag meet neatly in the ErgoFit Disc and, after readjusting to the correct height, they move seamlessly to keep the bag stable when extra weight is applied.

I tested the Cobra Ultradry Pro stand bag in 2023, and was impressed with how the straps moved to keep the bag level, and I'm very happy to say that the Big Max was similar in that regard.

Moving to the weight, and I will admit the Aqua Eight H is on the larger side, which meant the weight was too.

It is distributed well, though, especially given the number of items I was able to get in it. What's more, I did manage to carry the stand bag with no problems for 36 holes, so it's definitely manageable.

One point worth noting is that, like other Big Max bags, you'll be happy to know thick, cushioned straps are provided so that it's comfortable.

These straps can be removed easily via the ErgoFit Disc, making the move from carrying to putting it on a trolley/cart seamless.

There's a lot to like about the Aqua Eight H. In terms of downsides, there are one or two small bits.

Like every golf bag, dividers are a personal preference and, with this particular model, it has a seven-way top. This helped separate the clubs, in terms of ordering the bag, it does make it slightly harder than a bag with either a four-way or 14-way top.

For me, the biggest negatives are the zips. They are fully waterproof and do a good job of keeping water out, but they do feel slightly flimsy and are fiddly to do up.

This is something I found to be a problem with the other Big Max bag I tested, where the main zip was slightly faulty and, consequently, broke a few months after being used.

Overall, the bag is sturdy, but I would like the zips to be a bit more substantial and smoother. For me, though, the Big Max Aqua Eight H is an excellent all-round model and, if you are after a fully waterproof bag that offers premium performance, it's certainly an option to think about.

The zips might be the only let-down, but I really enjoyed my overall experience while testing this stand bag.

There is a persistent myth in the golf industry that to obtain a truly premium, precision-milled blade, you have to part with a sum of money north of $1,500.

After spending significant time with the Sub 70 669 MB irons, that notion hasn't just been challenged - it’s been dismantled. As an equipment tester, I see the best of the best, but the 669 MB is a stark reminder that incredible brands exist outside the local pro shop, offering performance that rivals, and often exceeds, the industry giants.

Visually, the 669 MB strikes a sophisticated chord. From the back, the minimal branding and soft CNC milling lines offer up an extremely premium aesthetic that wouldn't look out of place in a boutique Japanese forge.

The profile of the iron is particularly strong; it sits in that ‘Goldilocks’ zone of blade shaping. It isn't overly curvy like the Haywood CB, yet it avoids the hyper-boxy, angular look of the TaylorMade P7TW. The topline is thin enough to challenge you, but also a nod to the potential feedback on offer.

I also have to mention a personal quirk: I am a total sucker for the knurling around the hosel. It’s a small detail, but it adds a rugged, ‘machined’ feel to an iron that I have loved since first seeing it on Hogan clubs of yesteryear.

When you move from the aesthetics to the turf, the 669 MB continues to impress. The feel at impact is exceptional - soft, responsive, and remarkably ‘pure’ when struck out of the center. Much of this is aided by the very thoughtful pre-ground leading edge. It allows the club to move through the turf with superb efficiency, preventing the digging sometimes associated with sharper blades while maintaining that crisp connection every low-handicap player craves.

One of the most refreshing aspects of the 669 MB is the loft configuration. It is increasingly rare to see a true muscle back with a slightly stronger base loft than the traditional 34° 7-iron. The 669 MB 7-iron sits at 32°, with the pitching wedge at 45°. For a certain type of player, this will be really useful.

Usually, if you want a stronger flight in a blade, you have to bend them stronger, which will increase offset and reduce bounce - two things most blade players want to avoid. Starting at 32° provides a penetrating flight without compromising the clean, low-offset look.

On my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, this translated into a launch window that was a touch lower than my current Cobra 3DP MB irons. However, the data was reassuring; despite the slightly lower launch, the spin numbers didn't drop off noticeably at all.

This resulted in a very ‘heavy’ ball flight that cut through the wind with ease. Performance-wise, much like the 669 TC, the MB irons are brilliantly predictable. Whether it was the launch window, spin rate, or carry numbers, the predictable nature of these irons is exactly what you want to see when you're flag-hunting.

Finally, the DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) experience Sub 70 offers is something many larger manufacturers could learn from. The level of customization is excellent. Whether you want satin, black, or raw finishes, or if you want to go wild with twelve different ferrule options, Sub 70 makes it happen.

If I were reaching into my own pocket for a new set of irons this year, the Sub 70 669 MB would be very close to the top of my list. In my opinion, they represent the pinnacle of what a modern blade should be: beautiful, predictable, and fairly priced.

In the current golf equipment landscape, the ceiling for iron prices seems to vanish every season. With major manufacturers pushing sets well beyond the $1,500 mark (before you even get to your Cobra 3DP and McLaren’s of the world!), the barrier to entry for a premium, forged players' iron has never been higher.

However, spending time with the Sub 70 669 TC irons does nothing but reinforce my long-held belief: if I were a paying customer rather than an equipment tester, paying more than $1,000 for a set of irons makes very little sense.

It feels like a choice born out of habit, with most people seeing only what is available in their local pro shop and remaining unaware that incredible direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands like Sub 70 are producing world-class hardware at a fraction of the cost.

The ‘TC’ stands for Tour Cavity, and the 669 is definitely designed for the golfer who wants the workability of a blade with just enough perimeter weighting to take the sting out of a slight mis-hit. Forged from DT-4 soft stainless steel, the 669 TC undergoes a triple-forging process to ensure structural integrity and a dense, high-quality feel.

From the back, the 669 TC offers an extremely premium aesthetic. The branding is delightfully minimal, allowing the soft CNC milling lines to do the talking. There is a refined, industrial elegance here that suggests high-end craftsmanship. As a bit of a traditionalist, I am also a sucker for the knurling around the hosel - it’s a small, classic detail that adds a touch of character to a very clean design.

Down behind the ball, the profile is expertly executed. Sub 70 has opted for very traditional shaping and blade lengths in the longer and mid-irons, providing that sleek ‘players’ look that better ball-strikers crave. As you move into the short irons, the profile becomes a touch more ‘squat.’ It’s a subtle shift, but one that really suits my eye; they look compact and sturdy, framing the ball beautifully without looking oversized.

One of the most thoughtful design elements is the pre-ground leading edge. By softening the entry point of the club into the turf, Sub 70 has created a sole that glides through the ground rather than digging. Whether you are playing in firm links conditions or lush parkland turf, the interaction is superb, providing the meaty ‘thump’ every golfer loves to hear.

The feel of these irons is exceptional - soft, responsive, and communicative. You know exactly where you’ve struck it on the face, yet the DT-4 steel provides a dampened, ‘buttery’ sensation on centered strikes.

Performance-wise, ‘consistent’ is the word that kept coming to mind during testing.

In an era where some players' irons are chasing distance at the expense of gapping, the 669 TC stays true to its mission. The launch window is stable, the spin rates are exactly where a low-handicapper needs them to be, and the carry numbers are remarkably predictable. For a better player, predictability is the ultimate currency, and these deliver it in spades.

A notable feature is the loft indexing. The 7-iron sits at 32°, which is a touch stronger than competitors like the TaylorMade P7CB or Titleist 620 CB (both at 33°). I find this to be a fantastic option. Often, when you seek out this category for the looks and feel, you are forced into very ‘traditional’ weak lofts. If you want more distance, you usually have to bend them, which can inadvertently increase offset and decrease bounce. Starting a fraction stronger allows for that extra bit of ball speed without compromising the club's visual or functional integrity.

One area where Sub 70 truly laps the field is the buying experience. They offer options the major manufacturers simply don't: Satin, Black, or Raw finishes? You got it. Twelve different ferrule options? Why not. The ability to customize the aesthetics of your set to this degree is something the top brands could learn a lot from.

If I were spending my own hard-earned money on a set of irons this year, the Sub 70 669 TC and the Haywood Golf CB would be at the very top of my list.

With their soft impact feel, superb turf interaction, and sheer predictability, the 669 TC proves that you don't need to spend $1,500 to get a ‘tour’ level experience. They are a masterclass in value and performance.

Having worn running shoes a lot in my lifetime this golf shoe feels like it sits on more of the athletics side of the fence than the golf course. This is a great point in my eyes. You not only get the feeling of a running shoe when it comes to comfort and stability with the Halo Hybrid, you also get the traction required in the best women's spikeless golf shoes.

Offering so much grip from the sole thanks to the UA Rotational Resistance outsole. This is adorned with a grippy design which provides directional traction where you need it.

I usually wear spiked shoes on the course but these really gave me great confidence especially on the range hitting off a mat. I found I could wind up and give the ball a serious hit without sliding at all, these shoes almost screw you into the ground. Zero slippage in any form, I love that.

The “Bounce” you get as you walk in these shoes is remarkable, this is thanks to the trademark UA HOVR cushioning. I feel I can run all sorts of track events wearing these and I may well repurpose them in the gym.

The laces really make these shoes hug your feet once done up, I found the same with the Payntr X-007, they’re hugely supportive. But I’ll be honest, these feel like they come up a tiny bit snug compared to other Under Armour golf shoes I’ve experienced.

The suede “hook” at the back of the heel works brilliantly to pull the shoes on, but I will say it is perhaps worth going up half a size to find your perfect fit and make the getting into them easier.

Looks wise these are eye catching to say the least, carrying as much of a wow factor as shoes such as Duca Del Cosma's Olivera 2. The Beta Tint/Posh Pink is a light coral pink and really oozes surf holiday in Hawaii. Peeking inside the inner sole is embellished with a beautiful hibiscus flower, these are the true holiday shoe.

The sole is seriously chunky almost like a shoe you’d wear to do street dancing. Paired with skinny pedal pushers or a playful short, these shoes carry some serious street cred. I felt really cool in these and could happily live in them to be honest. They have also been worn with my favourite skinny jeans on family days out proving their versatility as a pair of shoes on and off the course.

The odd summer downpour won’t stop you in your tracks wearing these beauties. These are waterproof and will keep your feet dry as you spring down the fairways.

The synthetic materials on these shoes are extremely lightweight and water will bead off them whilst they will let your feet breathe, so reducing the chances of a less than desirable scent wafting from the inner soles.

Available in a vast range of sizes from 2.5-8.5 these will offer surf style to many a female golfer. Once you’ve found your perfect size you’ll be hard pushed to take these off your feet.

These are a brilliant and bold shoe, not for the faint hearted, but equally if you usually shy away from bold, I dare you to give these a try on and not fall head over heels in love with them, making them your best women's golf shoes this season

The mini driver certainly seems to be an emerging category of club gaining traction at almost every level of the game. The theory makes sense and yet I’d never had one in my bag… until one of the biggest rounds of my life.

The Old Course at St Andrews is one of the most historic and iconic courses in the world, so to put the brand new Callaway Quantum mini driver in play was a bold move. To use it to play the course in reverse, something golfers are only able to do three days of the year, was bordering on insanity.

But fortune favours the brave, as they say, and I was excited to see what this club could do in some testing weather conditions and an anxiety-ridden environment.

I employed the 11.5° model which comes in 340cc and with a 44” shaft. The look of this club, just like with the Quantum Max driver, impresses from every angle. The extra loft versus a standard driver makes it look inviting to hit and the proportions and shaping are just right for a club of this ilk, although I could lose the chevron near the leading edge if I was being ultra fussy.

The feel of this club is sensational in two ways. Firstly the sensation of power it sends up through your hands when you nut one out of the middle is addictive and testament to the Tri-Force face Callaway has implemented.

Secondly, the way this club engages with the turf, thanks to the Step Sole design, genuinely enhances its versatility and makes clean contact easier to achieve. It came in handy on the second shot to the par five 14th, and while it missed the green right, it got pin high from nigh on 260 yards away, albeit a little downwind.

Performance wise, this club impressed both of the tee and turf, something the best mini drivers have to deliver. It was naturally longer when hit from a tee, but not by as much as you might think. I was pushing 260 yards of carry using a tee height around half what I use for a driver. It was roughly 10 yards shorter from the deck, an admirable performance considering the lack of loft, but on a similar trajectory.

I tended to use it off the tee a lot more than from the fairway, simply because there were more shots that demanded accuracy and staying short of certain bunkers on the route I was playing. On hole 7 on the Old Course (normal) for example, it was the perfect club to stay short of Shell bunker. Then on hole 2 on the Old Course (reversed), it helped me avoid the out of bounds down the left hand side due to its slight right bias.

Overall I think it would be fair to say I was generally more accurate with the Quantum Mini versus a the best golf drivers and was pleasantly surprised about how little distance I was giving up. I could flight shots down into the wind when needed but also unleash some high bombs when the hole allowed. Then to add in that extra playability from the turf was especially useful when trying to reach long par fours and par fives into a stiff breeze.

Yes you need a healthy amount of speed to make it a viable option with the ball sitting on the ground, but I think the spectrum of abilities that could justify adding this club to the bag and benefitting from it both off the tee and into greens is surprisingly broad. This is a highly versatile and forgiving alternative to driver and 3-wood that balances both control and power very well.

As the second iteration of this Puma women’s golf shoe I think the Avant 2 has much improved styling. From a looks perspective, it’s a leap forward compared to the previous version with a more modern aesthetic.

I absolutely love the classically shaped sole, it’s like a throwback to the brogues I wore in the nineties, except that these are much, much lighter!

It’s an elegant, timeless look. In fact, it makes a refreshing change to see one of the best women's spikeless golf shoes as something a little more sophisticated than the trainer style of golf shoe that dominates our shop shelves.

The pretty pink stitching detail that frames the edge of the sole adds the perfect subtle dash of colour to what is otherwise a classical white shoe. The peach pink colour is also accented again in the addition of a little striped fabric loop on the heel.

This clever tab gives you something to hold onto when you slip the shoe on, without the need to use a shoe horn, preventing the heel of the shoe from losing shape and getting damaged.

Despite the fact that the Avant 2 is a summer shoe I’m happy that it still offers full waterproof protection courtesy of the full-grain leather upper. This means that if you’re hunting for a golf ball in the rough in the early morning dew, or you get caught in a heavy summer shower, your toes won’t know about it as your feet will stay dry.

The stand-out feature for me is the comfort. For a structured golf shoe, the Avant 2 offers exceptional soft feedback for the feet. Puma’s patented PROFOAM advanced lightweight material midsole really cushions the inside of the shoes, which feels heavenly when you first slip them on. It’s both spongy and supportive. The fit is snug, especially around the toe, which some women may find a touch narrow, especially if you suffer with bunions.

Out on the golf course the swing support is excellent, right from the first wear. The lightweight build was noticeable in making walking more pleasant, while the rubber carbon outsole gave me confidence that my foot would be supported throughout the whole swing. My biggest compliment is that I didn't notice the shoe while I was playing, it was so lovely and lightweight that I literally had a spring in my step.

From a price point perspective, these sit at the upper end of what I’d normally be prepared to spend on a summer pair of the best women's golf shoes, however given that they come with a one-year full waterproof guarantee I think that the premium price is worth spending and I anticipate keeping these on well into the autumn, muddy course conditions permitting.

Rangefinder brands have more recently been forced to think outside the box and come up with new features in an effort to grab your attention in a congested category. But typically these features are not legal for tournament play, rendering them somewhat redundant for those who play a lot of competitive golf.

For me, I want a rangefinder that does the basics well and will last the test of time and that’s exactly what the Precision Pro Titan Slope delivers. It’s not the brand’s most feature-packed model (that accolade goes to the Titan Elite) but it balances technology that will help the golfer get the information they need quickly in a robust, premium product.

Out of the box, it’s clear the Titan Slope is a quality product. It has a premium look and feel with its gentle sheen and aluminium shell, which is said to be ‘unbreakable’.

This is not something I plan on putting the test although, as a year-round golfer the IP67 fully waterproof protection will certainly come in handy. I also like the grippy section that surrounds it to assist with a stable hold, something many of the best golf rangefinders possess.

It passes the visual test but then excels further when you shoot your first target. I was genuinely amazed at how quickly it locks on to the flag and displays the yardage - we’re comfortably talking comparable with the best Bushnell rangefinders. It also provides a vibration in your hand for that extra dose of reassurance.

The display is bright and clear, making it easy to see targets over 300 yards away. The graphics are simple - just the numbers and the battery meter, nothing superfluous.

The biggest compliment I can pay this rangefinder is that you don’t find yourself using it for very long on each shot, although the case’s bungee strap system which wraps around the side is a touch more fiddly to operate than the usual one that flips over the top.

Like the best rangefinders with slope, the Slope feature is easy to disable via the button on the top of the unit and the built in magnet is useful should you play a lot of cart golf and want it easily accessible throughout your round.

The USB-C charging is a more convenient inclusion that having to frequently replace a CR2 battery. I've used it for multiple rounds now and the power level is still showing as full!

For the price (£299) you want features and reliability and the Titan Slope unquestionably delivers, which means there is value to be had here, especially considering the speed and the simplicity of the user experience. It impressed us so much we selected it for Editor's Choice in 2026, which is no mean feat.