Everybody in certain parts of the country always hope for a white Christmas, but Golf Tips’ 2019 Holiday Golf Gift Guide will give those desires a decidedly green hue. From new sticks and killer gadgets to gag gifts, you’re teed up to find that perfect present for your favorite fairway seeker.
KNUTH GOLF HIGH HEAT CLUBS
The High Heat story is getting told more and more these days, for good reason: The clubs do exactly what they’re purported to do, with the data to back up the assertions.
Inventor Dean Knuth had worked for years to crack the last true riddle in the modern driver and fairway metal design world: How to get the same performance on off-center strikes as on the still-too-small sweet spot (for most of us, anyway).
Knuth came up with a way to expand each club’s sweet spot to the entire face by reducing the average thickness of the toe and heel areas by 30 to 40 percent. The High Heat driver produces ball speeds of 1.41 times the average swing speed (known as the “smash factor”) compared to the major brands’ average of 1.3. That translated into more than 20 yards extra distance.
Knuth took the USGA’s changes to the “CT” rule — the amount of time a ball can stay on the face of a club, from 257 to 275 microseconds — and pushed those numbers toward the High Heat’s perimeter, to an average of 267 on the toe and 266 on the heel. That’s why Knuth has dubbed High Heat’s full-hot-face effect “257+ Technology.” The data is similar for the 3-metal too and 5-metal, too.
Our driver tests in 2018 opened our eyes about just how far technology can go, but our latest testing with the 15-degree 3-metal, in particular, took us aback; when faced with tighter driving targets and the need for less than full-on distance, pulling this handsome, larger-headed-than-usual club gave us confidence over the ball, which led to a smoother, slower swing — and explosive impact, pleasingly piercing ball flight and virtually no chance at a slice. Instead we got a dead-straight to slight draw movement. And even to a decent headwind, our tee shots cleared 220 yards; downwind, closer to 235.
For fairway strikes, the High Heat 3-metal performs beautifully, too. Again, swing easy and let Knuth’s hard work kick in.
And wait, there’s more: New fairway metal and hybrid models for 2020 (now available to order) include “Turf Slider Technology” designed to improve club-to-ground contact and reduces the risk of fat shots. Preliminary Golf Tips testing of the 3-metal and 4-hybrid support this assertion. The updated clubs move through the ball smoothly and produce high, piercing ball flight. Tasty!
Driver $499, fairways $329, hybrids $257 | www.highheatgolf.com
— Vic Williams
VOICE CADDIE SC100 LAUNCH MONITOR
Available now, the SG Tour offers a variety of golf-inspired games designed by professional golfers, including single-day, multi-day and tournament-long contests. Six custom-tailored games are available for the app’s rollout (see the accompanying photos), even a “Trunk Slammer” version for betting who doesn’t make the cut.
All it takes is one fan to set up a game, choose an entry fee and payout structure — from winner-take-all to 1-2-3 places to Tour style payouts based on a percentage of the total purse — and start inviting friends to join in.
If there’s one thing every golfer needs to keep a round going at full capacity, it’s adequate hydration. We all know that, we do our best to pound down the fluids especially in warmer weather … but water is water is water, right? Wrong. New on the lightly sparkling water scene is HyVida, which is infused with added hydrogen to add stamina, improve metabolism and reduce all those ailments that can destroy a golf swing, from migraines to bouts of nervousness.
The long-awaited sequel to Coyne’s uproarious travel saga and golf nut memoir, A Course Called Ireland, almost didn’t happen at all. Since penning that book based on his hilarious hike around the Emerald Isle, in which he played every course in 120 days while lugging his sticks on foot, Coyne had settled into a comfortable life as husband, father, university professor and writer (he’d also spent a year and a half trying to make the PGA Tour for his book Paper Tiger). But a phone call from a mysterious dude named Robert — we learn more about who he really is near the book’s stirring finale — got Coyne’s wheels spinning toward a plan to play every links course in England and Scotland over 60-odd summer days, some of them with his family in tow. “Robert” would show up for a round here and there, as would other half-crazed golf pilgrims whom Coyne either knew or had solicited to come along in a radio interview or via e-mail exchanges. Oh, and there’s another twist: He would end the saga trying to play his way into the Open Championship, which meant he had to get down to a scratch handicap before the trip even commenced just to nail down a spot in a qualifier at Bruntsfield Links in Edinburgh. Hello, epic practice sessions and rounds away from the family. He pulls it off, starting the journey near Royal St. David’s in southeast England, making his way to Wales and northern England and finally into every corner of Scotland itself. Fighting through physical exhaustion, self-doubt, homesickness and spates of nasty weather, Coyne knocks out 111 full or partial rounds on 107 courses, sometimes three rounds a day, in his search for the “secret” of great golf. It’s no secret that his passion for the game (and life) shows through on every page, and we get to follow his every step through modern golf’s birthplace — with a coda on a plot of hallowed American golf soil down Georgia way. A worthy trek? Aye.
Golf Tips Top 30 instructor and longtime teacher Brad Brewer has re-released his book Mentored By The Kingwith a new title, but no less respect and admiration for his dear friend, employer and, yes, mentor, who died in October 2016. Brewer ran Arnold Palmer Golf Academy for two decades before opening a school of his own in Orlando, modeling his approach toward golf and life after the King and absorbing, up close, as much of Arnie’s common-man magic as he could — his mix of power and grace, of confidence and humility, of deep respect for the game and his never-ending quest to conquer it with work ethic and unquenchable spirit. With a breezy, conversational writing style broken into short, pithy chapters punctuated by motivation quotes from Mark Twain, Winston Churchill, Zig Ziglar and many others, Brewer uses anecdotes and direct Arnie quotes to illustrate how to turn challenge into triumph, on and off the course, through optimism, self-belief, dedication, gratitude, consistent practice, embrace of risk and unwavering faith. He never gets preachy; rather, he puts his observations and recommendations for better golf and brighter living through the dual lenses of common sense and all-too-uncommon reverence for life and our God-given potential. Arnie left us with the feeling that we knew him personally, but Brewer truly did know him. In this book he generously shares their relationship as fellow golfers and simple men while offering a road map for enjoying the game more than ever, a la The King.
Like Brad Brewer’s tribute to his old friend and employer, this new look at Arnold Palmer’s life and legacy is based on longtime sportswriter Chris Rodell’s personal interactions with the favorite son of Latrobe, Pennsylvania — including some 100 hours of interviews — but instead of taking a more instruction-centered track, Rodell (who moved to Latrobe in 1992 but didn’t meet Palmer until a decade later) explores the great man’s life not only through those conversations and thousands of personal documents, but from the perspectives of his neighbors, friends, personal assistants and business acquaintances … 200 interviews in all. What emerges is a portrait of a regular guy who, through epic charisma tempered with small-town humility, became perhaps America’s all-time best-loved golfer and a well-branded millionaire without ever losing connection with his humble roots — including growing up in a ramshackle farmhouse in which Palmer would wake up on winter mornings with snow on his bed. Rodell has a gift for writing in a humorous, conversational tone that brings out his obvious love for his subject while playing up Palmer’s irreverent Everyman side. He ends the book with a detailed timeline of the King’s career. There’s no slipping into hagiography; Rodell keeps his words warm, winsome and straight-shooting. Mr. Palmer would approve.
In the original installment in what’s become a Golf’s Sacred Journey franchise, mental coach, entrepreneur and author David L. Cook established his teaching credo of “freedom in the chaos” via two characters — a hot-headed young Texas pro named Luke Chisholm and an award-winning teaching pro-turned cowboy-sage Johnny Crawford, whose Utopia ranch stands at the crossroads between earth and heaven, fear and faith, despair and destiny. Crawford is matter-of-fact, rough-hewn yet soft-hearted conduit between humans and their true potential, a horse-whispering wise man who, in the first book, teaches Luke an unconventional putting technique that puts him on the verge of winning the Texas Open while also coaxing Luke to confront and conquer his fears. Cook doesn’t reveal if the final winning roll drops, but in this book we quickly discern that it did — qualifying Luke for the U.S. Open. Luke returns to Utopia for a tune-up and Crawford throws him more soul-opening curve balls — how to initiate the golf swing in a new and unusual way while releasing letting what he calls the “dream seed” grow into belief in one’s self as a worthy child of God. As he prepares for the biggest tournament in the U.S. firmament, Luke meets several other “teaching” characters and comes face to face with a familiar foe, the world No. 1 nicknamed “TK the Lion” who was also a Crawford acolyte in days past. Turns out the Open itself is only incidental to Cook’s Bible-backed message of what’s really important in life, on and off the course. The book’s conclusion includes a somewhat off-putting sales pitch for the Face-On Putter and a pilgrimage to the actual “Utopia” in Texas — this is America, after all — but in his quest to reconnect golfers with their all-but-forgotten dreams and kindle the kind of faith that can carry them to their best selves, Cook’s heart is in the right place.
Golf’s No. 1 Performance Tracking System, Arccos 360 combines Live Shot Tracking, GPS 2.0 and a proprietary Tour Analytics platform to help golfers of all abilities lower their scores and have more fun. Boasting new sensors that are 50 percent smaller and lighter than the first generation, Arccos 360 automatically records every shot a golfer makes without the need for tagging or other disruptions. It then analyzes a player’s data in real-time, revealing strengths and weaknesses to enhance on-course decision-making. Users with at least five rounds completed can access the new Arccos Caddie, golf’s first artificial intelligence platform. It uses data from Arccos users as well as GPS information to provide users with suggestions for their optimal strategy on nearly any hole in the world. It also provides incredibly accurate GPS distances to any point on the hole and even calculates a “Plays Like” yardage that takes into account the impact wind and elevation.
Designed utilizing data from more than 3 million ball fitting sessions, the TOUR B line features the TOUR B X, XS, RX and RXS. TOUR B X and XS are designed for low handicap golfers looking for exceptional feel. A softer urethane cover formulation provides excellent spin and greenside control, while increased distance comes from enhanced aerodynamics and improved 330 Dual Dimple design. The RX and RXS are for mid-to-low handicappers, delivering explosive distance and optimized trajectory thanks to high repulsion construction and new 338 modified Dual Dimple design. The RX will help players hit more fairways while those looking for unmatched feel will gravitate toward the RXS.
Chase 54 offers golf collections for men and women, sold through many green grass courses, resorts and clubs. Their design team concentrates on true on-and-off-course garments that travel well. Start with the lightweight Landing full-zip jacket crafted from the brand’s ClimaFuze fabric technology, offering an easy layer for a brisk morning and water repellant protection to keep you dry. Second, the Pixel polo offers both style and comfort, boasting a subtle, trendy all-over gingham pattern. The removable collar stays keep you looking sharp, while the DryFuze fabric technology works to transport moisture from your skin to the clothing’s exterior. The UPF 50+ stretch material allows for freedom of movement and protection from the sun. Finally the Meta short is a classic that works well on and off the course, again crafted with DryFuze fabric technology. The stretch fabric provides mobility when swinging. Added details like waistband gripper tape and deep pockets will make the Meta your go-to short.
ECCO MEN’S BIOM HYBRID 3
18Birdies Premium Membership includes brand new features that will elevate your golf game! Premium Members have full access to Caddy+ including shot tracking, club recommendations based on shot history, and course conditions as well as advanced stats, our full side game library and more.
From the Official Outerwear Supplier of the European Ryder Cup Team, Galvin Green has introduced a completely new jacket technology for 2018. The Interface-1 hybrid jacket range offers a mix of lightweight protective shell layer fabric technology, designed for ultimate comfort for golf. The Lance full-zip jacket is water repellant, completely windproof and extremely breathable. Offered in a variety of colorways, the jacket provides protection from the elements on and off the course.
U-try allows golfers to test new equipment on their schedules and on real golf courses, helping them make informed decisions on the best club for their game. Featuring brand-new drivers and fairway woods from Callaway, Cleveland, Cobra, TaylorMade and Titleist, golfers can select up to two clubs on 
From the leader and innovator in data-driven sports technology, Rapsodo, R-Motion offers an affordable way for rookies and pros to perfect their swing at home. The Simulator and Swing Analyzer features a lightweight tracker that offers in-depth stats on club and ball speed, launch angle, distance, swing path and smash factor. All data is accessible through the new R-Motion app, allowing golfers to perfect their game and minimize any handicaps.
Short Par 4 is a golf inspired box subscription service that ships hand curated, top quality, branded golf apparel, footwear and accessories directly to golfers. It is a personal stylist for the golf inspired life that delivers brand name golf apparel, accessories and gear directly to its member’s doorstep – each for up to 60 percent off retail prices. Every month, Short Par 4 delivers exclusive brand name golf apparel and products that promise to make their member’s look handsome both on and off the course. With a membership for all budget sizes, every box includes top rated and premium golf brands like Under Armour, Nike, Puma and Callaway and burgeoning brands like Travis Mathew, Linksoul, Greyson and more. Each delivery is hand curated according to season and the golfer’s unique style profile that they fill out on the website. Its latest subscription is the “Tour Experience” featuring exclusive boxes curated by PGA Tour’s biggest stars with their apparel, accessories and gear for both on and off the course. Other unique offers such as signed memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items used during tournaments will provide real insight to what it is like to be on the PGA Tour. Also included is VIP access to “PGA Player” only deals and exclusive insider access to Rickie Fowler and Wesley Bryan. Both who showcase their respective brands and styles in their Short Par 4 signature Tour Experience Memberships. The Rickie Fowler Tour Experience by 
Swannies believes that caps are worth more than their utility, embracing both functionality and a classic style for every season. Make a statement in Swannies’ Delta hat featuring the brand’s iconic swan emblem, a triple reinforced sweatband and lightest in class design, keeping Dad cool and confident before, during and after his round. It’s made of water-wicking polyester and spandex. Since 2015, Swannies’ flagship golf sandal has swept the casual golf scene. The first-ever golf sandal, the Swannies Classic Sandal features an athletic, comfortable fit designed to be worn from front door to first tee to 19th hole. Adjustable synthetic leather strap designed for performance and comfort; slip resistant footbed and military grade softspikes offer superior traction and a built-in speed allows the footbed to stay with the foot while the spikes adhere to the ground.
If Dad is a range rat (or wants to be), this powerful, personal and portable launch monitor is a must-have. About the size of an iPhone with a large amber-tinted screen that’s readable even in bright sunlight, it sets up in seconds and measures carry distance, swing speed, ball speed and smash factor, with numbers displayed instantly. As you hit shots, a pleasant female voice states the carry or total distance for each one. A slim remote control allows you to switch clubs and change lofts on drivers, fairway metals, utility metals and wedges to match your clubs’ characteristics. Along with Practice mode, SwingCaddie offers “Target” mode with present distances from 40 to 200 yards, which helps dial in average distance for each club, and an “Approach” mode for practicing short game shots from around 40 to 95 yards.
Offering incredible performance at an unbeatable price, the VPRO500 laser rangefinder measures up to 540 yards and is accurate within one yard. The premium, multilayered optical lens combined with diopter adjustment and 6x magnification provide an ultra-clear and accurate view. It is incredibly lightweight (0.41 lbs), water-resistant and features three scanning modes to adapt for every situation – Pinseeker Mode, First Target Priority, and Continuous Scan Mode. The VPRO500 is available in standard and “S” editions featuring PinSlope Technology to calculate elevation-adjusted distance to target. Free with purchase is a shock-resistant carrying case, CR2 battery, wrist strap, microfiber cleaning cloth and quick start guide.
For 2018, Under Armour Eyewear is introducing two new lens technologies, one for on-course performance and one for post-round recovery. The UA Tuned Golf lens features a proprietary tint formula for heightened contrast in bright conditions while offering exceptional clarity. Giving golfers a competitive edge, the technology improves depth perception and enhances definition of the fairway and greens to better plan shots, read putts and assist with course management. An anatomical fit eliminates pressure for comfortable all-day wear. The UA Tuned Recovery lens utilizes a proprietary and restorative color profile that eliminates harmful violet light and allows helpful blue light to regulate natural circadian rhythms and rest eyes before their next peak performing state. You can spend more than five hours in the sun during a round; you rest your body, why not rest your eyes?
The World’s Lowest Compression Multi-Layered Golf Ball is now even harder to ignore.Available in six matte finishes: red, green, yellow, orange, pink, and a women’s matte white finish, DUO Soft Optix balls are easier to track. They are the only 29 compression matte balls on the market.
