Tested By You: Golf Club Reader Reviews

Equipment bought, played and reviewed by you - the Golf Monthly reader

Tested By You: Golf Club Reader Reviews

Do you want to get your name in the most respected golf magazine on the market? Have you just bought, or know someone who has just bought a golf club to put into their bag? Well if you send us a review of that club in the same format as the ones below, you could get your name and copy in the next issue of Golf Monthly.

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To add to that, if we choose yours you'll receive a FREE £50 Foremost Golf voucher to use in anyway you see fit.

What We Need From You

We need your name, age, handicap, where you are from and also a headshot to put into the magazine.

We then need you to create a review of a club you have recently bought in the same format as the ones below.

If you could please send in your reviews to golfmonthly@futurenet.com it would be greatly appreciated.

Tested By You: Golf Club Reader Reviews

Tested By You April 2020

Odyssey Stroke Lab Marxman Putter - Reviewed by James Adkin (West Sussex: 18)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I‘d always used an off-the-shelf blade putter but my backswing would often not maintain the correct path, which would result in off-centre strikes. When tired or nervous I would often turn the clubhead and miss putts I should really have been making.

How has the product been performing?

The results of a fitting showed a mallet putter helped improve my club path. The feel is great and I get the added benefit of the long alignment line. The fitting was a quick and fun process that has resulted in me having a putter I know matches my stroke, boosting my confidence.

Titleist TruFeel Ball - Reviewed by Bill Martin (Bildare: 7)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I have to be honest I am a Titleist fan boy. I had a voucher for my old club I needed to use up. I spotted these and decided I’d try them for my winter golf instead of Pro V1's. So bought them off the shelf on spec.

How has the product been performing?

I was very pleased with the result. Nice off the wedges all be it to soft-ish greens. Very nice off the putter with lovely roll. The biggest surprise to me on the cold damp mornings was the extra yardage. I’ve gained a club, possibly as its harder than Pro V1’s but haven’t noticed any major performance issues. Very pleased and will be my choice of ball over the winter.

Ping G410 SFT Driver - Reviewed by Olly Cole (Watford: 16)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

After some 1^st and 2^nd places in comps this season, I was given some vouchers as a prize for the local golf shop, so I elected to have a driver fitting. I was looking to hopefully gain a few yards without sacrificing straightness over my old driver, which was the G30 SF Tec.

How has the product been performing?

In the fitting, the G410 was about 10 yards further than my old G30, but I was surprised at how much straighter it was also – on average it was much nearer the centre line. This may be in part due to the Tensei Orange shaft, which the fitter also recommended to me as a natural fader.

In three rounds out on the course I’ve even seen a slight draw on several of my drives, which shows you that the ‘straight flight technology’ does what it’s supposed to! Even the sound is crisper and more satisfying than the G30. I have a lot of confidence with it, knowing the big slice right isn’t really an issue. Delighted.

Tested By You January 2020

Odyssey Stroke Lab R-Ball Putter - Reviewed by Jakki Moxon (Wrexham: 28)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I bought it as a replacement for my previous putter, which had broken. As soon as I picked it up, I knew that it was something special. The pistol grip is chunky, but tapered, making it a delight to hold. Weight distribution is completely different from my previous putter too, and a considerable improvement.

How has the product been performing?

Alignment is easy due to the ball and three lines on the head. My strokes are much smoother and more consistent, allowing me to achieve appropriate pace effortlessly on long putts. Short putts are steadier and straighter. Previously, I was a hesitant and nervous putter, but this purchase has given me genuine confidence on the greens.

Cobra King F9 Driver - Reviewed by Adam Holgate (Chelmsford: 18)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I’ve become increasingly frustrated with the upward price of drivers. I needed an upgrade and noticed the Cobra King F9 had some good reviews and was quite a lot cheaper than most others so thought I’d give it a try.

How has the product been performing?

I’m really happy with it. The heavy front weight is keeping my spin down, it’s carrying a good 10 yards further than what I had before and it’s really forgiving. I’ve now got the confidence to use it on tight holes where before I’d be reaching for a hybrid.

Mizuno JPX919 Tour Irons - Reviewed by Mike Chapman (Swanage: 5)

Why did you decide to buy the product? 

I have always liked the look and feel of Mizuno irons so having tried the various clubs in the JPX919 range via a fitting it was the Tour model that came out best for a combination of feel, distance and dispersion. The swing analyser suggested the shafts to try and we ended up settling for the Nippon steel and I opted to modify the lofts slightly stronger for more distance and even gaps through the range.

How has the product been performing?

I couldn’t be happier with my new irons. They look and feel great which gives confidence and the strike is so pure it’s awesome. The increased yardages compared with my old irons took a bit of getting used to but now I am used to them they work really well for me and I am hitting more greens than with my old iron

Tested By You November 2019

Odyssey Stroke Lab Double Wide Putter - Reviewed by Les Hines (Maidenhead: 17)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I was struggling with my putting and it was the only club in my bag I’d not been fitted for. I had a fitting with my club pro and my stroke suited a toe-hang putter, not the face-balanced model I was using. We found the Stroke Lab Double Wide blade suited me best.

How has the product been performing?

The putter has been performing really well. I love the feel of it and having been fitted for it, I know that if it’s not performing it is down to me rather than the putter! During a skins competition recently, I managed to sink a couple of clutch putts, which felt really good!

Volvik S4 Ball - Reviewed by Elizabeth Morrison (Monifieth: 29)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I’ve been using two-piece golf balls believing they maximised distance, but I then read an independent report suggesting that three- and four-piece balls deliver longer distances, even at slower swing speeds. So I bought a box of Volvik’s pink S4.

How has the product been performing? 

Frankly, I’m not seeing any increased distance, but I am not losing any either. I have been working hard on my short game this year, with some success prior to switching, and I am getting noticeably more control and predictability around the green since changing.

Callaway Rogue X Irons - Reviewed by Phil Moore (Haslemere: 20)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I have been collecting clubs from friends and family but I needed to invest in a set of irons I could call my own. I went for the Rogue X irons from Callaway because I got on well with them when I tested them briefly, and the price point fitted me perfectly.

How has the product been performing?

I feel as if the irons have given me a lot more peace of mind, especially in terms of mishits. The forgiveness has been brilliant, to the point where I am not losing much distance regardless of where I strike the ball. I love how these irons look over the ball and in my bag.

Tested By You September 2019

Ping Sigma 2 Tyne - Reviewed by Mike Blackmore (Fife: handicap 5)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I already play mostly Ping clubs, so for continuity reasons I tried new Ping putters. This putter has the adjustable shaft from 32-36in, which makes it easy to set the correct length. I use a mallet-style putter and the Ping Sigma 2 Tyne model stood out.

How has it performed?

The putter has been performing really well. It produces a good roll and a pleasant sound off the face. It has a long, simple alignment line and a good-quality Ping PP60 mid-size grip that is the perfect size and shape for me. The sturdy headcover will also help in handling the challenging Scottish weather!

TaylorMade Milled Grind Hi-Toe wedge - Reviewed by Damon Butler (Cardiff: handicap 23)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

As someone who is relatively new to golf, I have been playing consistently for a few months now, the main area of my game that cost me a lot of shots was my short game especially out of bunkers. The wedges I had were slightly older models and I had no real confidence with them which is probably the worst thing to happen when playing out from the sand. Because of this I bought a HI-Toe wedge with 60 degrees of loft to give me a helping hand.

How has the product been performing?

I always liked the look of the Hi-Toe wedges so that was an immediate plus for me and I feel like I can be way more aggressive when around the greens. Out of bunkers I believe I have become a lot more consistent which is vital because I want to keep on lowering my handicap. Sometimes I get the occasional bad strike but that is more likely to be my lack of skill than the clubs fault! In all I can definitely see myself buying possibly a couple more of these wedges because the 60-degree has performed so well for me.

Adidas Tour 360 XT SL shoes - Reviewed by Peter Mansfield (West Byfleet: handicap 8)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

With the summer months approaching I decided to buy a pair of spikeless golf shoes for the first time as I wanted something lightweight and waterproof that I could wear both on the course and in our clubhouse, these fit the bill perfectly. I loved the styling of the shoes and thought they were well priced for the quality

How has the product been performing?

I have been really impressed with the grip despite the lack of cleats. I thought they would just be a ‘summer shoe’ but the grip was excellent even when it rained recently. The ‘Boost technology’ adidas have is incredible too. They’re definitely the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned, it feels like I’m playing golf in my slippers!

Tested By You August 2019

Ping G410 Hybrid - Reviewed by Ollie Yates (London: handicap 11)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

Although I have been fitted for a Ping G 3-wood, I lack confidence with it on the course. With a Ping G30 4-hybrid already in the bag and it being a go-to club for me, I decided to try out the latest Ping G410 2-hybrid in a lower fairway wood loft.

How has it been performing?

I have been hitting the same carry distance as my 3-wood with a tighter dispersion, so keeping it in the bag was a no brainer. I actually think the turbulators frame the ball nicely and I use this in situations I wouldn’t use my 3-wood, like the first cut of rough. I’m glad I’ve got my confidence back.

Motocaddy AquaFlex Stand Bag - Reviewed by Bryan Bateman (Milton Keynes: handicap 15)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I previously switched between two bags as required – a heavy premium cart bag and a nylon stand bag. I was seeking a single-bag alternative that was lighter to carry, would fit on a trolley securely, would fit in my travel cover and was waterproof.

How has it been performing?

It ticks all the boxes. It’s much lighter than my old stand bag – if I’m playing a quick nine holes I don’t use a trolley now. The bag sits perfectly on my trolley (even though it’s a different brand). The main pocket is big enough for a full set of waterproofs and everything has stayed dry to date. I would recommend it to all.

Callaway Apex 19 Hybrid - Reviewed by Simon Ho (Ashford, Kent: handicap 13)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I was struggling with my off-the-shelf hybrids and decided to attend a Callaway fitting day as I was pulling the ball left and my gapping was off. I had never been fitted for a hybrid and brought previous ones mainly based on price.

How has it been performing?

Amazing. I got the 18° and 23° lofts, which give gaps of about 15 yards. I love the simple, compact look – I’m not a big fan of stretched-out hybrids that appear more like woods. So far, I don’t fear the left shot as I did before and have found it gives me a much-needed go-to club on those longer holes.

Tested By You Open 2019

Titleist 818H1 Hybrid - Reviewed by Will Thackray (Leeds, West Yorkshire: handicap 11)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I was struggling with the tricky 200- to 220-yard distance. I needed something forgiving that would still give me good feedback on off-centre strikes. After testing a number of hybrids, I settled on the Titleist 818 H1.

How has it been performing?

It has exceeded all my expectations. The larger profile inspires confidence, I love the lower-pitched ‘thud’ sound and my accuracy from 210+ yards has improved. The typical Titleist simplicity, impressive design and quality sets this club apart.

Garmin Approach S40 GPS Watch - Reviewed by Christopher Straine (Beardsley, Glasgow: handicap N/A)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I plumped for Garmin’s latest release to replace my six-year-old GPS watch. I couldn’t justify circa £400 for the more expensive handheld units, so at £240 this watch seemed like the perfect option.

How has it been performing?

It’s been brilliant. The display is large and gives me all the info I need. The shot tracking means I see my score and stats after the round via the Garmin app. Overall, it has just enough features, is easy to use and is actually a really nice watch to wear away from the golf course.

Cobra F9 Speedback Fairway - Reviewed by Ryan Hamilton (Wigan, Greater Manchester: handicap 15)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I’m by no means a great golfer, and I’ve always struggled with second shots on par 5s. I’ve never had enough distance or control to attack the green and have usually had to lay up with a high-lofted hybrid or a long-iron.

How has it been performing?

Wow, what a club! This wood is amazing. It’s incredibly forgiving from tight fairway lies, very helpful out of the rough and off the tee it can make a tight hole very attackable. I can also flight it low so it runs out not far from where my driver would finish. Plus it looks great too!

Tested By You July 2019

Ping G410 Plus Driver - Reviewed by Andy Clifford (Mansfield, Nottinghamshire: handicap 19)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I had a quick hit with a Ping G410 Plus at a nearby course and was instantly hooked, so I had a fitting for it at my club. Although I didn’t then hit it as well as I had done initially, I knew what it was capable of and it still outperformed my G30.

How has it been performing?

A couple of drives were over 200 yards and the forgiveness is very good for a player whose natural fade borders on a slice. I can now rein that in via the adjustable weight. I plan to swap my 3-wood for Ping’s G410 SF model too. My only complaint would be that the headcover isn’t long enough to stop the shaft rubbing on my bag.

Titleist AVX ball - Reviewed by Jason Yantin (Cambridge, Cambridgeshire: handicap: 2)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

I’ve played golf for 31 years and have always played a Titleist ball. My flight has always been relatively high, so when Titleist introduced AVX with a lower ball flight but the same feel around the green as the Pro V1, I was keen to give it a try.

How has it been performing?

I’m really impressed. The trajectory definitely comes out lower and more penetrating than a Pro V1 and I’ve also found the AVX to be more durable. It feels no different around the greens either. I’m so impressed I’ve bought four dozen via Titleist’s promotion, even though I still have 36 Pro V1s left from 2018!

Srixon Z U85 3-iron - Reviewed by Alex Marine (Petersfield, Hampshire: handicap: 2)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

My 3-wood was not reliable enough when my driver was having an off day and I needed a long iron to act as a fairway finder in windy conditions. It looks stunning and less daunting than other utility long irons, giving me great confidence over the ball.

How has it been performing?

The Srixon Z U85 is a perfect hybrid/long iron mix that offers me ultimate distance with maximum forgiveness. I’ve since dropped my 3-wood and replaced it with a Z U85 2-iron! It gives me a penetrating flight with great control. The Z U85 is an awesome product that I couldn’t recommend highly enough.

Tested By You June 2019

Titleist 718 AP1 Irons - Reviewed by Luke Overall (Halstead, Essex: 16 handicap)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

My handicap was coming down and I’d had my previous clubs for many years so I decided to invest in a new set. I didn’t know where to start with so many on the market, so I visited my local American Golf to get some advice on suitable clubs and have a fitting to see how a few new models compared.

How has the product been performing?

The 718 AP1s have added distance and consistency to my game, without a doubt. I’m hitting the ball longer and straighter. I tried many clubs but the AP1s felt lighter, looked better and gave me the best results overall.

Ping G Le Fairway - Reviewed by Christine Appleby (Lytham, Lancashire: 5 handicap)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

My woods are regular mens’ shafts and I was reluctant to try ladies’ shafts, but I have a relatively slow swing so my pro encouraged me to do so. I tried various makes, but the Ping consistently worked well for me. I soon got used to the white shaft and the lighter feel. It’s also easy to grip down to play a high-flying, shorter shot.

How has the product been performing?

I’m really glad I bought it as it’s very easy to hit, even from bare or tufty lies, and the extra loft (19°) helps the ball stay in the air for longer. I even had a hole-in-one using it on holiday in New Zealand on a 170-yard hole!

TaylorMade Spider X Putter - Reviewed by Karl Wright (Warrington, Cheshire: 11 handicap)

Why did you decide to buy the product?

Having owned older Spider models, I really like the more compact head and the way the white bar frames the ball. This, coupled with the long sightline, means it’s easier to align and feels more solid. The balance and weight feels great through the strike of the ball. The copper finish adds a premium touch.

How has the product been performing?

In the eight rounds I’ve played I’ve holed more putts, especially from six to ten feet, but the weighting of the putter ensures longer putts get to the hole. I’d prefer a thicker grip, but I’m sure this one will stay in the bag.

If you have just bought some new clubs, please send in your reviews to golfmonthly@futurenet.com

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