RBZ Stage 2 fairway wood
Key technology:
A new thinner, faster-flexing face, coupled with TaylorMade’s Speed Pocket – first seen in the original RocketBallz (RBZ) – provides added distance. The face design is shallower to increase playability and make it easier to launch. The centre of gravity is still low, but has been moved forward to keep spin levels down and help boost distance.
Will suit: players seeking extra distance from the fairway.
Verdict
GM verdict: In the past, fairway woods had often been an afterthought for manufacturers. But the arrival of the original RBZ sparked a mini revolution. The Stage 2 comes with promises of extreme added distance, and there’s no doubting this is a long fairway wood. However, what impresses most is the great-looking head and shallow face, which make it extremely versatile. But... the improvements don’t have the wow factor of the original design. If you want adjustability, you’ll need to pay an extra £40 for the Tour version. PGA pro verdict: Coming from a great pedigree, the RBZ Stage 2 came with a lot of expectation – and it didn’t disappoint. It was long, easy to flight and very consistent. I was also taken by the new details on the crown design, which help promote alignment. This really is a top product and will be easy to recommend to any player looking to instantly improve their fairway play.