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Odyssey
Havok
Key Features: Part of the White Hot Pro family, this forgiving model sports a new version of the White Hot insert that yields more consistent sound, feel and performance across the face. Its low-deep CG creates forward roll for distance control and accuracy. The putter’s high MOI helps increase stability through your stroke to get a true roll. Its Gun Metal PVD finish reduces glare.
Wow Factor: We love the face insert–it simply feels right. And that luxe deep putterhead finish looks like a piece of jewelry.
Specs: Available in lengths of 33, 34 and 35 inches, with a 360-gram head.
odysseygolf.com | $200/SuperStroke 3.0 grip, $160/standard |
Pearl ProSports
Pearl
Key Features: The lie angle can be adjusted on this symmetrically balanced aluminum mallet from 80_¡ to 60_¡, depending on your stance. The center-shaft design increases stability on off-center hits, and the custom hosel design creates an unobstructed view of the putterhead.
Wow Factor: Adjustable lie is a brilliant idea, mainly since lie angles are too often overlooked. Our pic doesn’t do this putter’s offering of colors and decals justice.
Specs: One model in four standard or 12 bright colors. Clubhead weight is 360 grams.
pearlprosports.com | $249-$349 |
EPIC BUNKER FAILS
By Glenn Deck, PGA
If you don’t like greenside bunkers and you’re trying to help the ball get up over the bunker lip, here’s a fix for you. The first step is to simplify your bunker setup and eliminate being too open in your stance or having the clubface too open. I want you to use your normal pitch shot except you’ll use the bounce in your clubhead and swing like your ball is in greenside rough.
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FIX #1: Set up so you’re aiming directly at the target and open the face so the bottom scoring lines aim at your left ankle to create a little bounce. Work your feet into the sand a half-inch so you have a shallow divot in the sand. Line up at your target and swing the club at your target to throw the sand on the green and forget about the open face! If you open your body and clubface too much, you’ll tend to swing the club back too far to the inside, creating a lot of problems. Instead, keep your focus on hitting a spot of sand two inches behind the ball and swing down and through. Too often, I see players open up their body too much to the left and open the face too much to the right, which makes the shot much more difficult. Instead, hit a "heavy pitch" and swing aggressively right at the target.
FIX #2: Change your distance thought; if you have a 15-yard bunker shot, you need a 45-yard swing. Yes, multiply the distance you need to hit by three to offset the cushion of sand between the clubface and ball. If you’re playing in a firm or wet bunker, double the distance; if you’re in soft powder sand, multiply the distance by four. Learn to make the practice swing outside the bunker before you walk into the bunker, so on most 20-yard bunker shots, make a 60-yard practice swing, then walk into the bunker, take your setup and go with the same feel.
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| If you’re really serious about shooting some lower scores this year, ditch the practice tee once in a while and hone in on your short game. Even with good swing mechanics, and sometimes perfect execution, you’re going to find yourself missing a few (sometimes a lot of) greens. Factors such as club selection, weather, elevation changes or green layouts and pin placements all affect our ability to knock it stiff, even on days when everything feels just right.
This year, wedge customization is popular, and rightfully so. Getting the custom look, feel, bounce, loft, etc., is crucial for becoming more proficient with short shots. Have a look at some of our favorite wedges for 2014. |
| Total Versatility |
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Callaway Golf
Mack Daddy 2
Key Features: A versatile Tour-proven design that generates lots of spin. Aggressive, large grooves plus increased surface roughness help enhance spin.
Wow Factor: Outstanding, clean-looking wedges that can be tailored to your swing. They feel buttery at impact, as well. Definitely consider them.
Specs: Available in various lofts between 47_¡ and 64_¡ with several bounce options, in two grinds and two finishes, with choice of shaft length and model, lie angle, grip model and wrap.
callawaygolf.com | $150 |
Cleveland Golf
588 RTX CB
Key Features: Generates tight backspin due to the large U-shaped face grooves that are especially effective from rough, sand and wet grass. Surface roughness is laser-milled into the clubface in a pattern that also induces spin. The sole is wider near the heel, narrower near the toe, to improve bunker performance without sacrificing versatility. An undercut cavity promotes perimeter weighting for more forgiveness on off-center hits.
Wow Factor: If there are any other wedges as easy to hit as these, please identify yourself.
Specs: Eight lofts from 46_¡ to 60_¡ in a Satin Chrome or Black Pearl finish, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold shaft (LH available).
clevelandgolf.com | $120 |
Edel Golf
Signature Series
Key Features: Each wedge in the series can be customized with a golfer’s preferred lofts, grinds, paint-fill colors and stampings. For added measure, even the shaft band sticker can be personalized.
Wow Factor: This company makes a great wedge, and these models look absolutely terrific. If Edel is a new brand to you, consider this a heads up. The company is on the way up. Way, way up.
Specs: You can get each wedge customized to any specs you want.
edelgolf.com | $179 |
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Fourteen Golf
DJ-11
Key Features: The wide sole and semi-offset neck of this forged nickel-chrome molybdenum bronze clubhead help ease setting up at address. Its reverse-taper blade and wide sole mean fewer mis-hits. An indentation structure evenly distributes clubhead weight. Trapezoidal grooves translate to high spin.
Wow Factor: We found it to create nice spin performance and consistency around the green.
Specs: Available in lofts of 48_¡, 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold or Nippon N.S.Pro 950GH HT steel shaft.
fourteengolf.com | $250 |
Hopkins Golf
CJ-1
Key Features: Made of soft carbon steel, these are raw so they’ll rust for even softer feel over time. Grooves plus a face-milled pattern maximize surface roughness for more spin. Six sole grinds are offered. Oh, and if it matters, Champions Tour players are eating them up.
Wow Factor: These can be personalized in many ways, including custom shafts, grips and paint-fill colors. They feel soft and perform with precision–what’s not to like? Nothing!
Specs: Available in loft/bounce options of 50_¡-8_¡, 52_¡-8_¡, 54_¡-12_¡, 56_¡-14_¡, 58_¡-12_¡, 60_¡-12_¡ and wide-sole 60_¡-8_¡ with a Hopkins Golf OTM steel shaft.
hopkinsgolf.com | $99
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Miura
K-Grind
Key Features: There are two new lofts (52_¡ and 60_¡) in addition to the original 56_¡. A distinctive fluted sole helps interaction with turf at impact, allowing it to be more versatile in more situations.
Wow Factor: It looks plain great, and it’s very playable however you use it. Open the clubface of the 60_¡ model and it slices effortlessly through sand. The extra two lofts collectively make this a great wedge set to own if you can afford it.
Specs: Available in loft/bounce options of 52_¡-7_¡, 56_¡-12_¡ and 60_¡-13_¡.
miura.com | $275 |
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Mizuno
JPX Series
 Key Features: A large face, wide sole and subtle relief in the heel and toe make this wedge versatile. The groove shape–deep and narrow in lower lofts, wide and shallow in higher lofts–and a milled face translate to optimal spin control.
Wow Factor: The feel is outstanding, the shaping is even better. Smooth lines, great look at address.
Specs: Available in loft/bounce options, in both right- and left-handed models, of 50_¡-6_¡, 52_¡-8_¡, 54_¡-10_¡, 56_¡-10_¡, 56_¡-14_¡, 58_¡-10_¡, 58_¡-14_¡, 60_¡-5_¡ and 60_¡-9_¡, with an XP 105 steel or a Fujikura Orochi graphite shaft.
mizunogolf.com | $125/graphite shaft, $100/steel |
Titleist by Vokey
WedgeWorks
Key Features: These are custom wedges by renowned wedge maker Bob Vokey or one of his craftsmen, who will even laser-etch your name directly into the shaft.
Wow Factor: Getting a wedge customized to your swing is awesome. Getting a customized Vokey is on a whole other level of cool.
Specs: Available in several 58_¡ or 60_¡ models, with grinds and customization options previously reserved for Tour pros only.
vokey.com | $Varied |
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Bladed Wedge Shot
The trick for this shot is simple. You want to catch the ball at or near its equator with the leading edge of the wedge. Play the ball back in your stance and make a low-swinging stroke. Don’t lift the club, as you actually want to blade it thin and get the ball rolling! This shot is a lot easier than trying to putt from against the fringe. Try it! |
| Feel & Forgiveness |
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Cobra Golf
Tour Trusty
Key Features: A compact, non-offset shape, as well as two cut depths on the face, help max out surface roughness, while wide grooves enhance spin. Available in a matte satin or matte black PVD finish.
Wow Factor: We like the "notch K-Grind" that provides heel and toe relief, which makes them more versatile around the green.
Specs: Available in loft/bounce options, in right- and left-handed models, of 48_¡-8_¡, 50_¡-8_¡, 52_¡-8_¡, 54_¡-10_¡, 56_¡-12_¡, 56_¡-8_¡, 58_¡-8_¡, 60_¡-10_¡, 60_¡-6_¡, 62_¡-8_¡ and 64_¡-8_¡, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold S200 shaft.
cobragolf.com | $119 |
Nike
VR X3X
 Key Features: Comes in two flavors. The Toe Sweep model features a wide toe area, plus dramatic heel relief that allows an open clubface at address. The Dual Wide Sole model is versatile and has a C-shaped sole. Both are forged from soft carbon steel and boast X3X grooves that boost spin consistency.
Wow Factor: Nike has historically put out very playable wedges and believe these new models only enhance the user experience. They’re easy to hit and stop the ball nicely.
Specs: The Toe Sweep is available in right-handed lofts of 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡, left-handed lofts of 56_¡ and 60_¡, the Dual Wide Sole in right-handed lofts of 52_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold shaft and Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 grip.
nikegolf.com | $110 |
Orlimar
Tour Groove
Key Features: Forged from soft carbon steel, it has a traditional teardrop shape, USGA-conforming grooves and a brushed satin finish that reduces glare.
Wow Factor: We’re all over the clean lines and substantial look of this wedge. It feels nice and soft, and generates ample spin.
Specs: Available in right-handed loft/bounce options of 52_¡-8_¡, 56_¡-12_¡ and 60_¡-6_¡, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold shaft.
orlimar.com | $99 |
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Ping
Tour
 Key Features: A soft stainless-steel clubhead has three sole width options–thin (TS) for firm conditions and shallow approaches, standard (SS) for all playing conditions, and wide (WS) for hitting from softer sand and turf–that lend versatility from any lie. Precision-milled "Gorge" face grooves hold tight manufacturing tolerances to help maximize backspin. The traditional head shape features a custom tuning port in the cavity, which increases MOI and contributes to a solid feel across the clubface.
Wow Factor: Plain awesome, with respect to looks, feel and performance.
Specs: Available in 47_¡ (SS), 50_¡ (SS), 52_¡ (SS), 54_¡ (SS, WS), 56_¡ (SS, WS), 58_¡ (SS, WS, TS) and 60_¡ (SS, WS, TS), with a PING CFS or PING TFC169i shaft.
ping.com | $140 – $167.50 |
Ping
EYE2 XG
Key Features: The beloved EYE2 wedge is still available (we can’t let it go, either), with conforming grooves and a precision-milled face. Ironically, this forgiving wedge is still being used by Tour players.
Wow Factor: Yes, that’s right. Tour players love this wedge because it’s crazy-forgiving and the sole design allows for a huge variety of shots around the green. Sometimes what works keeps working, no matter how old the design. Case in point, this very wedge.
Specs: Comes in 56_¡ and 60_¡ models, with a variety of steel and graphite shaft options.
ping.com | $119 |
Taylormade
Tour Preferred
Key Features: Two sole options, including the ATV (All-Terrain Versatility) sole for…wait for it…more versatility! This allows for a variety of shots regardless of the course conditions and swing type. In a satin-chrome finish, mind you. It’s like a sports car with big, knobby tires that can handle all kinds of terrain. The microtexture face helps optimize spin and greenside performance.
Wow Factor: TaylorMade wedges with ATV have generally been received well by golfers, who find them versatile from any lie. We like that you can open up the face as needed, and always seem to have the right bounce angle for the task at hand.
Specs: Available in loft/bounce options of 50_¡-9_¡ for right-handed only, as well as 52_¡-9_¡, 54_¡-11_¡, 56_¡-12_¡, 58_¡-10_¡ and 60_¡-10_¡ in right- and left-handed models.
taylormadegolf.com | $130 |
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Tour Edge
Exotics CD PROs
 Key Features: Forged from soft carbon steel for good feedback. Aggressive square-style grooves lend plenty of control, while the beveled sole eliminates bounce from the heel and toe, giving you versatility from most lies.
Wow Factor: It has a nice, classic shape, which we like for hitting most scoring shots. The sole shape makes this an effective weapon from thick and thin turf.
Specs: Available in loft/bounce options of 50_¡-10_¡, 52_¡-12_¡, 54_¡-14_¡, 56_¡-14_¡ and 60_¡-14_¡, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold shaft.
touredge.com | $119/graphite, $99/steel |
Wilson Staff
FG Tour TC Black
 Key Features: Traction Control technology enhances spin on long and partial shots in the form of aggressive Tour-Y grooves that are milled for consistency and enhance spin on full swings, with micro-spin enhancers–sets of 11 laser-etched lines between each groove–that increase spin on partial swings. There are two sole options: Traditional has optimal width and camber for golfers with medium to steep swings, and Tour Grind is thinner for players with medium to shallow swings.
Wow Factor: Attractive black, non-glare finish and sleek shaping. A fantastic value.
Specs: Two sole options and nine different loft/bounce combinations mean 35 possible loft/bounce/sole configurations, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold steel shaft.
wilsonstaff.com | $100 |
Flop Shot
Hitting a successful flop shot can sometimes be as gratifying as hitting a big drive or sinking a long putt. But many golfers are too reluctant to try one, thinking it’s a shot that only better players can execute.
The reality is, yes, a flop shot requires more touch than, say, a simple chip or pitch does. But it’s not impossible! The trick is employing a technique that I’ve seen many good players doing as of late. Before this, many golfers would attempt to hold the face open through the flop shot, hoping to slide the club precisely under the ball and hope to not hit it fat or thin. This technique has a lot of room for error, often resulting in more not-so-good shots than well-executed ones.
So what’s the best way to do it? First, I want you to set up as you would a normal flop shot. Play the ball front-center in your stance, with the shaft vertical and your weight slightly favoring your left side. (This will steepen your swing for crisper contact.) Next, lay the face wide open behind the ball. From here, I don’t want you to try and keep the face open! Hit a normal shot, allowing the wrists to hinge and rotate going back, unhinge at impact, and, again, hinge and rotate through the followthrough.
Because the clubface was laid considerably open at address, you allow the hands to rotate the clubface as you would with a normal shot and still expect the ball to have plenty of upward trajectory. As you practice this shot, it’s important to experiment with what setup face angle works best for you, and always remember to both rotate the body and accelerate through the shot. Any tentativeness when hitting flop shots will likely produce a bad result. |
| Total Forgiveness |
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Black Magic Golf
Black Magic Wedge
Key Features: A unique hybrid design–the hosel is attached to the clubhead body and not the clubface–that eliminates shanked shots and makes it a cinch to extricate the ball from the sand. No need to hit behind the ball and dig into the sand before the ball.
Wow Factor: We’re amazed at how picking the ball clean is so freakin’ easy with this wedge, especially in the rough and sand.
Specs: Four lofts (48_¡, 52_¡, 56_¡, 60_¡) in a steel shaft.
blackmagicgolf.com | $99 |
Cleveland Golf
Smart Sole
 Key Features: This two-wedge system includes an S model for easy bunker escapes and a C model for consistent greenside chips. Cleveland’s widest wedge sole helps prevent excess digging in both turf and sand, promoting solid contact from every lie.
Wow Factor: We love these chippers intended for all skill levels. Regardless of how consistent or otherwis
THE CHRONIC SLICE: KILL IT!
By Brady Riggs, PGA
Slicing the ball is never fun, especially when you don’t truly know why it’s happening. You’ve probably heard that slices are caused by swinging the clubhead outside to inside the target line, right? But did you know that a slice actually can come from any type of swing path? Trust me, I’ve seen ’em all. The key isn’t so much the path, as much as it is the angle of the clubface relative to the path the clubhead is traveling on.
For instance, you’ll hit a big, sweeping, left-to-right slice if you swing outside to inside the target line with a clubface that’s considerably open to that outside-in path. (If the clubhead is a little open relative to the path, you’ll fade it.) Both a slice and a fade can be accomplished with a clubface that’s closed relative to the target line, but open relative to the path the club is traveling on.
Make sense? Since this is the case, the best way to fix a slice isn’t to shut the clubface at address and hope for the best. Instead, practice swinging the club more from inside to outside the target line, with a clubface that’s slightly closed to the path. And here’s another secret. Hitting a draw is perfectly doable with a clubface that’s slightly open relative to the target line. How so? Simple. As long as the clubface angle is closed relative to the path the clubhead is traveling on, the ball will have draw-spin. This means, even though the clubface is slightly open relative to the target line, it’s still going to create a draw ballflight. So don’t fuss over trying to close the clubface and hit the ball with a face that’s slammed shut. Start by correcting your path first, then dial in the right amount of release in the hands and wrists. This, folks, is how you fix a slice forever.
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| No matter what shot you hit, the single piece of equipment involved in every shot is the golf ball. It’s what you’re trying to move from tee to green, making it the most important piece of equipment you play with. Today, there are tons of golf balls to choose from, ranging from Tour-caliber to distance ball, with a wide spectrum of golf balls somewhere in between. Our advice is to get fitted if you can, but if you can’t, do some trial and error. In case you didn’t know, many retailers sell balls by the sleeves (not just by the dozen). Sure, it will cost a little more, but trying a variety of golf balls will invariably help you see (and feel) which performs best for you. Read on–we have some of the best balls you can buy in this roundup. We love every single one. |
| Tour-Ready |
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Bridgestone
B330 & B330-S
Key Features: Four-piece construction that, yes, incorporates water into the core formulation, which somehow (it’s way over our heads, too) makes this ball’s core softer and the outer regions firmer. That means big distance, folks.
Wow Factor: These balls are more apt for golfers with faster swing speeds (over 105 mph). The B330 is for the player who already generates enough spin and wants more distance, and the B330S is for those who want a higher-spinning Tour-level ball. Either way, we like ’em both and, frankly, the B330 is as low-spinning with a driver as any Tour-level ball we’ve tried this year.
Specs: Four-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
bridgestonegolf.com | $45/doz. |
Callaway Golf
Speed Regime(1, 2 & 3)
Key Features: Enhanced HEX aerodynamics, dual-core construction, a Urethane cover, a soft feel and a categorization that’s as simple as 1, 2, 3.
Wow Factor: No, really, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3. Speed Regime 1 is for slower swing speeds below 90; Speed Regime 2 is for the 90-105 mph sect; and Speed Regime 3 is for fast swings over 105 mph. But how do they perform? Better than any Tour-level Callaway ball that we’ve ever tried. And they feel really, really soft. Each category has its own set of aerodynamics for that particular swing speed range.
Specs: Five-piece construction, with a Urethane cover (different aerodynamics based on each model).
callawaygolf.com | $48/doz. |
Nike
RZN Black & Platinum
Key Features: Designed to be 10% softer than 2013’s 20IX balls, the new RZN Black and Platinum retain four-piece construction for more distance with a driver and touch with the shorter clubs. The Black is a lower-
spinning ball, and the Platinum is a moderate spinner. Both have a new Speedlock core design, which means the core is bonded to the compression layer via a waffle-like design. This, according to Nike, promotes enhanced performance as far as distance and control.
Wow Factor: Nike staff players say this ball feels softer, not just with the driver and irons, but on the greens, too. That’s a good thing, since a softer feel tends to help you accelerate the putter more through the golf ball. Or, so we say.
Specs: Four-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
nikegolf.com | $46/doz. |
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Srixon
Z-Star & Z-Star XV
Key Features: A soft Urethane cover for added control and a multilayer construction for spin when you want it and distance when you need it? Sign us up! The Z-Star is a great for swing speeds between 90 and 105 mph, and the Z-Star XV is more suited for fast swing speeds over 100 mph. Both balls are stellar performers in our book, and we really appreciate how durable they are, too. They just keep going and going and going….
Wow Factor: The SpinSkin coating increases friction between the ball and clubhead, helping to increase spin on shorter shots. Comes in white and Tour Yellow, which happens to be our favorite.
Specs: The Z-Star is a three-piece golf ball with a Urethane cover. The Z-Star XV is similar, only with a dual core.
srixon.com | $45/doz. |
Titleist
Pro V1 & Pro V1x
Key Features: Is there a ball that has influenced the game more than the Pro V1? Probably not. Both balls are the same as last year, with a retooled formula for a softer feel and more distance.
The three-piece Pro V1 is the ideal combo for players who want distance off the tee and added stopping power on the greens. The four-piece Pro V1x promotes less spin off the tee than the Pro V1 and has a slightly firmer feel (both are still soft).
Wow Factor: The Pro V1 is still the #1 ball in the universe. Okay, maybe not the universe, but certainly in the professional ranks. It does what a Tour player needs it to–spins less off the tee, but spins like crazy around the green.
Specs: The Pro V1 has a three-piece construction and the Pro V1x has a four-piece construction; both have Urethane covers.
titleist.com | $45/doz.
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Taylormade
Tour Preferred
Key Features: Designed with input from TaylorMade’s huge Tour staff, the new Tour Preferred (and Tour Preferred X) balls have five layers (like the Lethal does) that allow better players to achieve low-spin drives and high-spin wedge shots. (The X spins a little less.)
Wow Factor: The new React Core is formulated for serious distance. Oh, and this ball has four covers over that core, each designed to maximum or minimize spin, depending on what club you’re using. Trust is, there’s some serious innovation in there.
Specs: Five-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
taylormadegolf.com | $36/doz. |
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Volvik
Vista iS
Key Features: What colored ball is tearing up the professional ranks? This one! The Vista iS from Volvik features a four-piece multilayer design for, you guessed it, outstanding performance off the tee (lower spin) while allowing for more control on short shots (higher spin).
Wow Factor: The iS feels a lot softer than last year’s Vista iV, and we love the orange color! Shots off the tee flew high and far, and we were blown away by the Zirconium cover, which produced plenty of stopping power on shorter shots. It’s only a matter of time until we see it on the PGA Tour.
Specs: Four-piece construction, with a Zirconium HZ-III cover.
volvik.com | $45/doz. |
| High-Performance |
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Bridgestone
B330RX & B330RXS
Key Features: Both the B330RX and B330RXS have Hydro Core tech, only in a more friendly design for golfers who maybe aren’t blessed with 105+ mph swing speeds.
Wow Factor: Bridgestone has made it simple to decide which Tour-level ball you need. Want Tour distance with added spin? Go with the B330RX. If spin is even more important, try the B330RXS. Simple, right? As for performance, the B330RXS spins so much, you’ll feel like a Tour player from inside 100 yards (even though you don’t swing as fast as a Tour player).
Specs: Three-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
bridgestonegolf.com | $45/doz. |
Dixon
Earth
Key Features: The world’s first eco-friendly golf ball made of recyclable material, the Earth is also a solid distance ball with exceptional durability.
Wow Factor: It’s not made of recycled stuff–it’s made so it can be recycled. Got that? And in case you haven’t seen the commercial starring Don Cheadle on the website, you should. It’s great. As for performance? The Dixon Earth is a great all-purpose golf ball. Simply put.
Specs: Made of 100% recyclable material. It can be traded in for a discounted price on another one. Cool!
dixongolf.com | $40/doz. |
Nike
RZN Red & White
Key Features: Both the Red and White have three-piece construction, with a lightweight Speedlock core for more distance, control and a better ballflight. The Red promotes more distance while the White features a bit more feel.
Wow Factor: It’s not a Tour-level ball, in our opinion, but it sure comes close. And at under $30 a dozen, it’s a ball that most amateurs should consider. For real. They’re the best-feeling, good-value Nike balls ever made.
Specs: Three-piece construction.
nikegolf.com | $29/doz. |
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OnCore
MA 1.0
Key Features: You can’t see it, but this ball has a hollow metal core, which pushes weight toward the perimeter of the ball for a high MOI and less sidespin. Cool!
Wow Factor: Awesome technology! And, by the way, in case you were wondering, it’s USGA-conforming. Is hollow core the future of golf? It certainly is for OnCore, and we think they have a bright future ahead. This ball is the real deal, and we appreciate the efforts these folks took in getting a revolutionary ball like this into play.
Specs: Hollow metal core, with a polymer midlayer and an ionomer cover.
oncoregolf.com | $42.95/doz. |
Rife
V Motion & E Motion
Key Features: The E-Motion is a three-piece ball with a Surlyn cover and the V-Motion is a three-piece ball with a Urethane Cover. The E-Motion is the everyday, durable choice for most recreational players and the V-Motion is more Tour-like, with fewer dimples (318) for a more flat, penetrating launch.
Wow Factor: The company is known for its putters, but trust us, these balls are spot on and quite good. What surprised us the most? How long both balls were. Big hitters will like the V-Motion’s low-launch characteristics.
Specs: The E-Motion is a three-piece construction, with a Surlyn cover; the V-Motion is a four-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
rifeputters.com | $18-$32/doz. |
Taylormade
Project (a)
Key Features: According to TaylorMade, average golfers spin the ball about half as much as Tour players do with their wedges. This ball is designed to close that spin gap, helping to create spin where we need it and also reduce spin where we don’t (off the tee).
Wow Factor: A high-performance ball for weekend warriors like us. What’s not to like about that? We get the type of distance we’re used to, only now with a ton of greenside spin. Nice.
Specs: Three-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
taylormadegolf.com | $32/doz. |
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Titleist
NXT & NXT Tour
Key Features: Titleist set out to make the NXT and NXT Tour as close to being a Tour-level ball as it could–without a Urethane cover and higher price tag. If you ask us, they succeeded! The NXT Tour combines big distance off the tee and more spin than we expected around the green. The NXT Tour S performed similarly, only had a softer feel.
Wow Factor: The NXT Tour ball isn’t new, but this iteration is outstanding. We wouldn’t be surprised to see a Tour player put it in play. It’s that good. Also comes in yellow.
Specs: Both balls have three-piece construction, with a Fusablend cover.
titleist.com | $39/doz. |
Volvik
White Color
Key Features: Volvik’s new ball combines the feel and added spin of a Urethane cover with the distance of a Bismuth metal dual-core design. In simple English, that means it’s a top ball for superior distance off the tee and added control around the greens.
Wow Factor: Putting the ironic name and big distance aside, this ball is seriously workable from the fairway and around the greens. No joke, we hit shots that required added spin, and the White Color performed exceptionally well. It’s not a low-launching ball off the tee, which is okay with us, considering how far it goes and how responsive it is with short shots.
Specs: Three-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
volvik.com | $45/doz. |
Wilson Staff
FG Tour
Key Features: A four-piece construction designed for Tour-level use, the FG Tour has a soft feel to go with big distance off the tee and stopping power around the green. So confident that you’ll like it, Wilson offers a money-back guarantee. Okay, Wilson, you have our attention now. (Actually, we already tried them, and we won’t be sending them back.)
Wow Factor: Did we mention the guarantee? You won’t need it. It’s our favorite Wilson ball and does more than hold its own in a tough category of golf balls that all have really good performance. We were especially pleased with how long this ball was off the tee.
Specs: Four-piece construction, with a Urethane cover.
wilsonstaff.com | $45/doz. |
| All-Around |
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Bridgestone
eSeries
Key Features: Each of the three balls (e5, e6 and e7) caters to a specific type of player. The two-piece e5 is a distance ball at heart, but has a high-spinning Urethane cover for short shots. The three-piece e6 is a soft, multilayer ball with a durable Surlyn cover, and the e7 is a distance ball with a spinny cover.
Wow Factor: Great prices. Our favorite is the e5, which spins like crazy on short shots. No, really, it does. The e6 is a solid performer for golfers who want distance and control in a non-premium ball.
Specs: The e5 is a two-piece, with a
Urethane cover; the e6 and e7 are both three-piece, with Surlyn covers.
bridgestonegolf.com | $26/doz. |
Callaway Golf
X2 Hot & X2 Hot+
Key Features: Improved HEX aerodynamics for more distance and less slice and hook-spin. The X2 Hot+ is a similar ball, only with a bit more stopping power when hitting your short irons.
Wow Factor: Hitting the ball far is fun. Callaway gets that, probably more this year than they did since way back during the early iterations of the Big Bertha driver. These balls are long and feel soft, which for us is exactly the kind of ball we like to use for a casual round of golf this Friday. (Shh, don’t tell the boss.)
Specs: Three-piece construction, with a Trionomer cover.
callawaygolf.com | $27/doz. |
Chromax
Metallic
Key Features: The high-visibility metallic finish is crazy! The cover, which is translucent, shows off a reflective inner layer that encompasses the soft-compression core.
Wow Factor: They look great in the golf shop, but wait until you see them in the sunshine. They look like they’re actually glowing, thanks to the bright reflective inner layer. They’re distance balls, so don’t expect a lot of versatility, but for hitting big drives with a lot of style, you can’t go wrong here. Quick Tip: Wear sunglasses; they’re insanely bright.
Specs: Two-piece construction, with an inner metallic coating.
chromaxgolf.com | $20/doz. |
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Titleist
DT Solo
Key Features: The DT Solo is back! Reworked for more distance and a very soft feel, the DT Solo is like the Velocity (we think, at least), but with a noticeably softer feel. The two-piece design has a 376-tetrahedral dimple design for a consistent launch and flight.
Wow Factor: We think if you’re going to get a DT Solo, get the yellow. It has a nice glow to it! It’s also so soft, you’ll forget you’re using a distance ball. For moderate swing speeds looking for distance, you’ll want the Velocity. But for average to slower swing speeds, the DT Solo is the right Titleist ball for you.
Specs: Two-piece construction, with a Surlyn ionomer cover.
titleist.com | $19.doz. |
BETTER IRON PLAY DOESN’T REQUIRE HUGE DIVOTS
By Joseph Mayo
Okay, i know you’ve probably seen Tour players make huge divots after they make contact with the ball, right? So have I. And if you have Tour player-like swing speed, hitting down on the golf ball will certainly allow you to shape the ball to your advantage.
But what if you’re not a Tour player and you have an average swing speed? I’ll tell you right now, hitting down on the ball with the intent of making a big divot is going to hurt you more than help you. Without the necessary swing speed to impart extra backspin on the ball, you’ll end up hitting the ball lower and shorter than you should. Instead, what I suggest for better iron play is to hit the ball on as shallow an angle as you can while still aligning the iron’s sweet spot behind the ball at impact. This doesn’t mean hanging back or trying to lift the ball up. No, if anything, you still need to hit down on the ball (it’s on the ground, after all), but you just don’t need to hit down as deeply as you might think. Instead, think of sweeping your iron shots and playing the ball at the low point of your swing arc. Once you let go of the fixation to hit down on the ball, you soon may find it a lot easier to hit solid iron shots. If you’ve been told hitting down on the ball steeply makes it go up, well, that’s not true, either!
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WHAT’S THE SECRET TO LOWER SCORES?
Hitting more greens. Or, more specifically, hitting shots closer to the pin. The closer your approaches, the more likely you’ll make more putts, and the lower your scores will drop. Huh? If only it were that simple!
Luckily, this year, we’ve seen yet again another heaping of new irons that try their best to help you hit the ball straighter, higher and farther from the rough and fairway. We’ve tried many of them and have been blown away by how much longer today’s models are over those from only two to three years ago. That said, several models still remain for the iron purest, with forged blades widely available.
Check out the crop this year in three categories for easy decision-making come time to buy new irons. |
| Low-Handicappers |
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Callaway Golf
X2 Hot Pro
 Key Features: Combines the power and distance of a game-improvement iron with the shotmaking performance of a Tour-style model. A new, deep, central undercut boosts the spring-like effect off the large sweet spot of the A-Frame face for distance without losing trajectory. The thin topline and minimal offset deliver enhanced workability.
Wow Factor: We love the traditional, yet forgiving look of these irons. For better players? Yes, but we won’t tell.
Specs: Available in 3-AW, with a Project X 95 steel shaft.
callawaygolf.com | $900 |
Callaway Golf
Apex Pro
 Key Features: Made with forged one-piece construction for a responsive and soft feel, the face is razor-thin. And the long irons have tungsten sole inserts in a pocket for a higher launch, while the sole is wider than you’d expect for forgiveness. New grooves aim to launch the ball high out of the rough. Also comes in a non-Pro Apex model, for what Cally calls "forged distance."
Wow Factor: The feel is noticeably nice and soft, partly because of polymer inserts that dampen impact. And we love that you can buy a 2-iron! Holy schnikes, these are pretty clubs!
Specs: Available in 2-AW, with a KBS V-Spec steel or UST Mamiya Recoil graphite shaft.
callawaygolf.com | $1,299/graphite, $1,099/steel |
Cleveland Golf
588 TT
Key Features: TT stands for Tour Trajectory. Constant blade height with progressively longer blade length throughout the set promotes more forgiveness in longer irons and more penetrating trajectory on shots struck with the short irons. A cavity undercut generates more ball speed and accuracy on mis-hits. Forgiveness is in the house!
Wow Factor: Loads of forgiveness, power and…see above. Forged sure feels good.
Specs: Available in 3-PW for righties and lefties, with a Traction 85 steel or an Actionite 55 graphite shaft.
clevelandgolf.com | $799/graphite, $699/steel |
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Fourteen Golf
TC777
Key Features: Soft forged iron with a deep CG. Its wide sweet spot yields accuracy and distance control. A semi-gooseneck, slight offset and thick top blade help square each clubhead at address for visual confidence.
Wow Factor: The nickel-chrome satin finish and the plain shaping remind us of classic forged irons throughout history. We’re impressed that each shaft’s length perfectly matches the club loft for any given iron in the set.
Specs: Available in 4-AW, with a Nippon N.S. PRO 950GH HT steel shaft.
fourteengolf.com | $1,400 |
Miura
MB001
Key Features: Refinements to the sole’s shape and size help the clubhead travel effortlessly through turf and help keep it square at impact. A cleanly shaped topline helps form the look better players prefer, as does an overall compactness. The clubhead has a slight offset to control trajectories.
Wow Factor: It resembles the old Maxfli Australian blade–an awesome thing. But we’re really impressed with the solid feel at impact, and the fact that the ball flies lively off the clubface.
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with many shaft options.
miuragolf.com | $235-$250/club, depending on shaft |
Mizuno
MP-4
Key Features: Pure forging, in every sense. A muscle bulge–more prominent in scoring irons–extends high on the clubface and thickens the impact area of the mild carbon-steel clubheads. The thin topline and reduced offset help manipulate ballflight.
Wow Factor: Absolutely gorgeous forged irons. They’re what we dream a blade will look like. Long-iron shots get up with ease, and short-iron shots are pleasantly workable.
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold S300 steel shaft.
mizunogolf.com | $1,000 |
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Mizuno
MP-54
 Key Features: A milled "STEP" muscle in the 3- through 7-irons repositions weight to the cavity frame for mis-hit stability. It also creates a deep CG for launch forgiveness while enhancing feel. The short irons’ muscle design helps feel and workability.
Wow Factor: Sleek-looking irons that truly impress us with the perimeter grind that thins the topline and sole width appearance. We’re confident that better players will love them.
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold S300 steel shaft.
mizunogolf.com | $1,000 |
Nike
VRS Covert Forged
 Key Features: A proprietary variable-thickness clubface delivers fast ball speed and distance. A high-speed cavity back with a low and deep CG yields long and straight shots, particularly for shots toward the toe, where company officials believe most players make contact with the ball. High-frequency grooves maximize spin to help ease long iron shot dispersion from difficult lies.
Wow Factor: We like the look of this iron. And, to be honest, Nike’s more favorable irons the past few years have been those models for better players. So these are a nice option for low-handicappers in the market.
Specs: Available in 4-AW, with a Nippon 950 GH steel shaft.
nikegolf.com | $1,099 |
TaylorMade
Tour Preferred
 Key Features: Comprised of three models. The Tour Preferred MB is a compact muscleback blade forged of soft carbon steel and bearing a thin topline, minimal offset and slight camber. The Tour Preferred MC has a shallow muscle cavity to boost MOI, and the 3- through 7-irons have the proprietary Speed Pocket for more ball speed. The Tour Preferred CB is a full-fledged cavity back that maintains the shape of a player’s iron and elegant look of a blade when soled behind the ball. The Speed Pocket in the 3- through 7-iron features "micro-slots" to promote faster ball speed across the face and higher launch, which promotes more distance. The Tour Preferred CB has compact short irons with minimal offset; the other clubheads are slightly larger with progressive offset for more stability and easier launch.
Wow Factor: We love the hand-polished satin nickel-chrome finish–it’s choice. And we’re especially suckers for the MB model, which Dustin Johnson has been raving about on Tour this year. Or was he talking about Paulina? Both work.
Specs: Available in 3-PW (CB set also has AW), with a stock KBS Tour steel shaft.
taylormadegolf.com | $1,099/MB, $999/MC, $899/CB |
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Titleist
CB Forged
 Key Features: Constant blade lengths with minimal progressive offset enhance workability. The clubheads are compact with precise CG locations and traditional lofts and have a shallow cavity back with an inner cavity muscle behind the impact area for solid feel.
Wow Factor: We love the clean, simple lines, especially for better players. They look great at address, which can boost your visual confidence right out of the chute. (Don’t tell, but we found them to be surprisingly forgiving.)
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold steel or graphite shaft.
titleist.com | $165/club with graphite, $140/steel |
Titleist
MB Forged
Key Features: Constant blade lengths with minimal progressive offset enhance workability. Compact with precise CG locations and traditional lofts, the clubheads have a classic muscleback with weighting behind the sweet spot.
Wow Factor: We’re going on a limb here and saying these are the best-looking forged blades on the market. Simple. Clean. Elegant. Like fine jewelry. By the way, they feel awesome, too.
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold steel or graphite shaft.
titleist.com | $165/club with graphite, $140/steel |
Wilson Staff
Staff FG Tour 100
Key Features: What better way to celebrate 100 years for Wilson? These forged irons are pure blades with the look and feel a century-young brand can deliver. With a compact profile and thin topline, this is the player’s muscleback blade. Solid shots never felt or looked better.
Wow Factor: They’re beautiful, and we love the old-school feel. Then again, we think most golfers, even newbies, can get away with blade-style short irons, at the very least. These irons may not be for everyone, but we think everyone should take a look, at the very least. Or, better yet, check the staff bags out on Tour. You just may see a few sets inside the ropes this year.
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold steel shaft.
wilsonstaff.com | $999 |
| All-Around |
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Acer
XS Forged
Key Features: Forged and milled, the XS Forged irons are a shotmaker’s iron for advanced shotmaking and maneuverability. Thanks to a CNC-milling process, these forged clubs have a cavity that’s usually found in cast clubheads, meaning although they’re better-playing clubs, they’re still long and forgiving.
Wow Factor: These are silky-smooth and nicely balanced. What a great price, too.
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with stock options of more than 40 shafts and 100 grips to choose from.
hirekogolf.com | $49/each |
Callaway Golf
Apex
Key Features: A forged, game-improvement iron with distance-enhancing features. A thin, high-strength, forged-steel face insert helps achieve distance. The 3- through 5-irons feature a tungsten sole insert, translating to a low CG and high launch angle.
Wow Factor: We’re sentimentally fond of the classic look. The long irons are distance machines that create nice, high flight. Thanks for bringing the Apex back!
Specs: Available in 3-SW, with a True Temper XP95 steel or UST Mamiya Recoil graphite shaft.
callawaygolf.com | $1,299/graphite, $1,099/steel |
Callaway Golf
X2 Hot
 Key Features: A new, deep, central undercut boosts the spring-like effect off the large sweet spot of the A-Frame face for distance. A wide groove produces more spin,
increasing carry distance.
Wow Factor: They’re long and land softly, just the way we love.
Specs: Available in 3-LW and two steel shaft options, a Lightweight Speed Step 85 steel or an Aldila Tour Blue graphite.
callawaygolf.com | $900-$1,000/graphite, $800-$900/steel |
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Cleveland Golf
588 MT
Key Features: MT stands for Mid Trajectory. With a constant blade length throughout the set, the blade height gets taller in the shorter irons. Full Hollow Construction and internal weighting promote a low, deep CG to enhance distance and forgiveness. A progressive set profile improves playability; a vibration dampener in the back softens impact.
Wow Factor: All-around, our favorite irons from Cleveland…ever.
Specs: Available in 3-PW for righties, lefties and women, with a Traction 85 steel or Actionite 55 graphite shaft.
clevelandgolf.com | $799/graphite, $699/steel |
Cobra Golf
BiOCELL
Key Features: The long and mid-irons have heavy tungsten in the heel and toe, which lends forgiveness. Tungsten in the short irons is centered behind the clubface for added distance and control. It’s the largest unsupported face of any Cobra iron, so the clubface flexes at impact for plenty of distance.
Wow Factor: They’re designed to be long and forgiving. Mission accomplished!
Specs: Available in 3-LW, with a Cobra BiOCELL graphite or True Temper Dynalite 85 steel shaft.
cobragolf.com | $135/graphite-shafted club, $875/steel-shafted set |
Mizuno
JPX-EZ Forged
 Key Features: For mid- to high handicaps, this has a hot face plus a pocket cavity in the 4- through 7-irons to help generate high, long and straight shots. In the 8-iron through gap wedge, a deep pocket cavity boosts accuracy and control. Proprietary "Harmonic Impact Technology" in the cavity frame enhances feel.
Wow Factor: We’re blown away by how easy it is to get the ball airborne and flying right on target. Distance is deceptively aggressive, as well.
Specs: Available in 4-GW, with a True Temper XP steel or Fujikura Orochi graphite shaft.
mizunogolf.com | $$1,100/graphite, $800/steel |
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Nike
VR Forged Pro Combo
 Key Features: Its long irons have a polymer-filled pocket cavity that strives to yield a high trajectory with forgiveness and enhanced feel. Short irons have a forged split cavity that delivers a penetrating flight.
Wow Factor: We achieved nice distance and control with these. The look is a little vanilla, but who cares when the ball is going where you want?
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold steel shaft.
nikegolf.com | $1,000/steel |
Orlimar
Tour3
Key Features: Each clubhead has a forged face and cast cavity for a pure feel with playability and forgiveness. Long irons feature an undercut cavity that boosts MOI and lowers CG; mid-irons have a mid-muscle back for workability; short irons are blades.
Wow Factor: We’re pleasantly surprised by how nice these irons look and perform. And they’re a really good value, as well.
Specs: Available in 3-PW, with a True Temper Dynamic Gold shaft.
orlimar.com | $699 |
Taylormade
SpeedBlade
 Key Features: A game-improvement iron that combines a Speed Pocket that’s wider and longer than last year’s RocketBladez, a low CG, proprietary Inverted Cone
2013 looks to keep going where 2012 left off, as far as golf balls are concerned. Colored models are still gaining popularity, as are a slew of soft-core/soft-cover models that not only feel great, but fly a long way. In addition, some popular models got tweaked and fine-tuned to perform even better than before. That said, golf ball fitting has become popular, as it not only helps Tour players find the right ball, but all abilities, as well.
Even after years of preaching it in the pages of Golf Tips, it seems many golfers still ignore the most critical component of the golf club. Really, once you find the right head to your liking, what shaft you put in it makes all the difference in how well it will work for you. Pay attention not only to flex, but also factors such as torque, length and weight. All these variables need to be considered if you want to make the most of any club in your golf bag.
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Bridgestone
B330 & B330-S
Key Feature: The B330 features a larger core and softer cover, not to mention Dual Dimple Technology, which offers superior aerodynamics and enhanced performance in the wind. The softer B330-S spins a little more.
Who It’s For: Pro-swinging golfers with speeds over 105 mph. Players who like to bust shots through the wind.
Specs: 330 Dual Dimple Technology, Urethane cover, dual-mantle design for reduced spin and higher launch with driver and irons.
bridgestonegolf.com | $45 |
Bridgestone
eSeries
Key Feature: Each of the three balls (e5, e6 and e7) caters specifically to certain players. The two-piece e5 is a distance ball at heart, but has a high-spin Urethane cover for short shots. The three-piece e6 is a super-soft multilayer ball with a durable Surlyn cover, and the three-piece e7 is a distance ball for every type of player.
Who It’s For: Bridgestone is making great strides in golf ball fitting. There’s an eSeries ball for just about everyone.
Specs: e5 is a two-piece, Urethane cover; e6 and e7 are both three-piece designs with Surlyn covers.
bridgestonegolf.com | $27 |
Bridgestone
B330-RX & B330-RXS
Key Feature: Features a mantle layer and Dual Dimple Technology for longer distance, better accuracy and optimized greenside performance. The softer Urethane cover allows slower-swinging players to achieve great greenside spin, and the newly formulated mantle layer reduces spin for longer drives. The RXS model has even higher spin for those who need more control around the green.
Who It’s For: Golfers who swing less than 105 mph.
Specs: Three-piece, Urethane cover. The RXS is the softer of the two.
bridgestonegolf.com | $45 |
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Callaway
Hex Hot
Key Feature: The new Hex Hot has a Fast Tech inner mantle for more distance, and the Trionomer cover promotes lower driver spin, again, for more distance. Put it this way, it’s the longest Callaway ball we’ve ever hit.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want a multilayer distance ball and who like the look, feel and performance of HEX-shaped dimple patterns.
Specs: Three-piece, Trionomer cover.
callawaygolf.com | $27 |
Callaway
Hex Hot Pro
Key Feature: Three-piece construction with a DuPont HPF Mantle that not only adds driver distance, but also provides some extra feel around the greens.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want big distance from their golf ball with some added spin on short shots. Basically, it’s a lot like the HEX Hot, but with extra control.
Specs: Three-piece, Trionomer cover.
callawaygolf.com | $28 |
Callaway
Hex Black Tour
Key Feature: Callaway’s most highly engineered Tour-level ball. Innovative dual-core construction, durable cover material called DuraSpin and HEX aerodynamics all combine to create a ball with optimum "spin separation" or rather the difference between how the ball spins on short and full shots.
Who It’s For: Phil Mickelson uses it. If you desire a high-performance ball with exceptional distance, here ya go.
Specs: Five-piece design, HEX aerodynamics.
callawaygolf.com | $46 |
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Chromax
Metallic
Key Feature: The high-visibility metallic finish is a feast for the eyes! The cover, which is translucent, shows
a reflective inner layer that encompasses the soft-
compression core, resulting in the most unique-looking ball out there.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want a soft-feeling distance ball that’s really quite easy to see and cool lookin’.
Specs: Two-piece, not counting the metallic inner coating. It also has a translucent Surlyn cover and two-piece core.
chromaxgolf.com | $20 |
Dixon
Earth
Key Feature: The world’s first eco-friendly golf ball made of recyclable material, the Earth also is a venerable distance ball with exceptional durability. And full shots feel soft and fly with a long and high trajectory.
Who It’s For: Eco-concerned golfers who appreciate recyclable stuff. (The ball itself is recyclable.)
Specs: Made of 100% recyclable material; it can be traded in for new ones at a discounted price.
dixongolf.com | $40 |
Dixon
Fire
Key Feature: A recyclable cast Urethane cover, "energy-intensifying mantle" and "high-intensity green core with ignite technology." Maybe we were just having a good day, but these things may be the longest balls we’ve ever hit. These quality balls fly a mile and spin like crazy around the greens.
Who It’s For: Golfers who swing faster than 90 mph. Also for golfers who don’t mind paying $6/ball.
Specs: This multilayer eco-friendly ball has 318 dimples and an Elastodynamic Urethane cover.
dixongolf.com | $75 |
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Nike
One RZN & One RZN X
Key Feature: The soft RZN core promotes high distance, this time in a model for amateurs who want higher ball speed off the clubface. The X model is for penetrating
distance, whereas the standard One RZN has some added control.
Who It’s For: Big-hitting amateurs who want Tour-like distance in a ball with a soft core.
Specs: Three-piece golf balls, both with Nike’s new RZN core material.
nikegolf.com | $29 |
Nike
20XI-S & 20XI-X
Key Feature: The new 20XI-S and 20XI-X balls both have more distance at the core, thanks to a new RZN material that Nike claims is faster and lighter than rubber. There are two models: the X for more distance and the S for greater spin around the greens.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want Tour-level performance in either the spin or distance variety.
Specs: Four-piece construction with new RZN cores; 360-dimple pattern.
nikegolf.com | $45 |
Polara
XD
Key Feature: The XD has an asymmetrical dimple pattern that self-corrects hooks and slices by up to 50%.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want to hit it straight and far and don’t want to compete in USGA-sanctioned events. (Polaras don’t conform to the rules.) These self-correcting balls can now be used with drivers with lofts of 9_¡ to 10.5_¡. The XDS version spins more than the XD.
Specs: Two-piece construction.
polaragolf.com | $30 |
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Rife
E Motion
Key Feature: The E Motion is a 3-piece high-performance ball with a progressive Dual Motion Core and 392-dimple pattern. That aside, if you haven’t heard of RIFE’s balls, you’re missing out. They’re really great.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want solid performance from a very durable cover. And by the way, it’s not only durable, but also exceptionally long off the tee.
Specs: 3-piece construction, Surlyn with Aeroblend cover.
rifeputters.com | $18 |
Rife
V Motion
Key Feature: Three-piece, cast Urethane-covered, Tour-level golf ball for the optimal blend of distance and spin. The 318-dimple pattern is designed to reduce drag and improve carry distance for longer shots.
Who It’s For: Seriously, folks, these new balls by Rife are fantastic, and we bet it’s only a matter of time before more golfers take notice. They’re that good. Nice price, too.
Specs: Three-piece construction, 318-dimple pattern, cast Urethane cover.
rifeputters.com | $32 |
Srixon
Soft Feel
Key Feature: This soft-feeling ball from Srixon is designed to launch the ball high with low spin for maximum distance and control. Its soft core is ideal for golfers with less than 100 mph swingspeeds. Srixon also claims the ball has a higher MOI, meaning greater accuracy on off-center hits.
Who It’s For: Golfers with moderate to slow swings, who want to get every ounce of distance they can muster.
Specs: Two-piece with a soft, smooth feel.
srixon.com | $19 |
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Srixon
Z-Star
Key Feature: Its Urethane cover is very soft, so you get added spin control without sacrificing distance. Also, it pierces through the wind–thanks to its core and aerodynamic dimple design–so more shots go where you aim them. Easy to stop on approach shots, but doesn’t spin much off the tee. That equals big drives.
Who It’s For: Folks who want Tour-level performance.
Specs: Three-piece ball with new Urethane cover and 324 dimples, available in pure white and Tour yellow. Look for a four-piece Z-Star XV version, too.
srixon.com | $45 |
Srixon
Z-Star SL
Key Feature: STAR performance technology. What’s that? Spin, Trajectory, Acceleration and Responsiveness. Srixon has combined all four so this ball performs well for golfers with midrange swingspeeds. The result is a Tour-caliber ball with a high launch angle and exceptional greenside spin.
Who It’s For: Folks who don’t possess Tour-level swingspeeds (less than 105 mph), but demand the precision of a Tour-quality ball.
Specs: Available in white and Tour Yellow.
srixon.com | $29 |
Taylormade
Lethal
Key Feature: The new Lethal has a 5-piece construction and a seamless 332-dimple pattern for what TaylorMade says is its most wind-defying golf ball. Oh, yeah, it also
has the type of greenside spin that Tour professionals demand. What more could you want? It’s the "ultimate Tour-performance golf ball," says TaylorMade (and us).
Who It’s For: Better players who want improved distance and control without giving up much-needed control on shorter shots around the green.
Specs: Five-piece, 332-dimple pattern, Urethane cover.
taylormadegolf.com | $45 |
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Taylormade
Penta TP5
Key Feature: This new and improved five-layer ball features a 28% lower core compression. That equates to lower driver spin (and, hence, longer shots) and a softer feel around the greens.
Who It’s For: Developed for Tour pros, the TP5 can be played by golfers of all abilities. Of course, better players will really notice the benefits of its multiple layers.
Specs: Urethane cover and a five-layer construction that’s engineered to improve performance on every shot, from tee to green.
taylormadegolf.com | $46 |
Titleist
NPro V1 & Pro V1x
Key Feature: Delivers increased spin control and a more consistent flight, thanks to a ZG process core technology, responsive ionomeric casing layer, Urethane elastomer cover and dimple design.
Who It’s For: This year’s balls have been refined for even greater distance and durability. Really? How much better can these balls get? We’re impressed (as always).
Specs: Three-piece ball with Urethane elastomer cover, bearing a spherically tiled 352-tetrahedral-dimple design. The four-piece Pro V1x produces less spin on full shots.
titleist.com | $58 |
Volvik
ProBismuth
Key Feature: he new ProBismuth from Volvik is a three-piece, high-performance golf ball with a soft Z-1 cover for enhanced feel and playability on shorter shots.
Who It’s For: Mid- to low-handicappers who want a solid blend of control and distance in a ball that has a soft, silky feel both off the tee and with iron shots. With such spin around the green, you’d swear they had a Urethane cover.
Specs: Three-piece construction, soft Zirconiuim cover, 446-dimple pattern, Bismuth-infused core.
volvikgolfusa.com | $32 |
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Volvik
Crystal 3-Piece
Key Feature: The popular colored-ball brand has made its way into the high-performance market with the new Crystal 3-Piece. The two-piece low-compression core and translucent cover combine for big distance with woods and added spin with iron and wedge shots. It also has a very, very soft feel, which we love.
Who It’s For: All player types who want better performance from a line of balls that come in four different colors.
Specs: Three-piece construction in four colors: green, yellow, orange and pink; also available in a rainbow pack or yellow/orange.
volvikgolfusa.com | $32 |
Volvik
Vista iv
Key Feature: Four-piece construction designed for Tour-level performance. This equates to big drives with minimal spin and greater spin on shorter shots. (Yes, it’s possible to do, folks. That’s what four layers are for.)
Who It’s For: Golfers who want high-performance golf balls, with the added durability and color one would expect from Volvik golf balls.
Specs: 392-dimple design for a mid/high launch; Zirconium cover in four colors: green, yellow, orange and pink; also available in a rainbow pack or yellow/orange.
volvikgolfusa.com | $47 |
Wilson Staff
FG Tour and FG Tour X
Key Feature: The new FG Tour and Tour X both feature a three-piece construction with Urethane covers for Tour-like performance. The Tour X model is slightly firmer than the regular FG Tour for lower-spinning ballflight.
Who It’s For: Wilson has been around for a long time, and it looks like they’re finally gaining traction back here in the U.S. Better players will love ’em. Big hitters will like the X.
Specs: Three-piece, Urethane cover.
wilsonstaff.com | $39 |
5 QUESTIONS WITH SRIXON
With Chris Beck, Brand Manager SRIXON
SHAFTS
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Aldila
RIP Phenom
Key Feature: The mean, pirate-looking graphics on the new RIP Phenom hide a ton of new technology geared for added stability and power. The Hyperbolic Flex Zone provides a stiff tip section and a firm butt section, meaning the shaft flexes in the center. Thus, you have a penetrating launch and a very fast swing speed, thanks to some serious tech under the hood. It’s our favorite Aldila shaft!
Who It’s For: Golfers who want maximum power and control without a ballooning ballflight.
Specs: Comes in 50g or 70g in R, S or X flex.
aldila.com | $159 |
Aldila
RIP Trinity
Key Feature: As the name implies, the Trinity combines three technologies into one shaft: RIP technology for control and distance; S-Core Tech for incredible stability; and Micro Laminate Tech for impr
Who says the game is played with just clubs and balls? Not us, certainly. We think golfers should use everything possible to improve their games. In this section, we highlight a number of this year’s best accessories, from gloves, training aids to GPS units. The future is now.
WEAR
SENSOGLOVE
Featuring a longer battery life and increased sensitivity for a more accurate pressure read, the upgraded SensoGlove ($22 for a replacement glove) has a built-in digital monitor that analyzes your grip pressure during the swing. That way, you’ll know immediately if your grip pressure is too firm or light, and as a result, make better, more fluid swings.
sensoglove.com | $89
EQ GLOVE
Made from top-of-the-line cabretta leather, the EQ Glove features antimicrobial Lycra, which helps enhance the fit and reduce heat and moisture. It comes with a distinct holo-graphic ball marker, three sizes and two colors. EQ claims it lasts twice as long as the average cabretta glove.
eq-love.com.com | $40
TIFOSO Duro
For heavy hitters only! Tough as nails and big on style in a lightweight package, the Duro features adjustable nose pads and temples for a custom fit. Vented lenses prevent fogging, and hydrophilic ear and nose pads cut down on the slip factor, even under sweaty conditions. Available in regular or prescription lenses.
tifosioptics.com | $59
EXPRESSO Satilite Navigation WR62PS
The first golf GPS watch to include information about hazards, the WR62 from Expresso Satellite Navigation also tracks your shot’s distance and gives you access to the yardage to the front and back of the green.
golfesn.com | $180
IZZO Swami Golf GPS Watch
Boasting accurate distance to the front, the middle and the back of the green, the new Swami Golf GPS Watch from IZZO comes preloaded with more than 19,000 North American courses. Weighs only 3.5 ounces and holds a 6- to 8-hour charge. No downloads or annual subscriptions.
izzogolf.com | $1579
GARMIN Approach S1W GPS Watch
Preloaded with nearly 17,000 North American courses, the Garmin Approach S1W GPS watch is fashionable, functional and pretty darn powerful, too. It delivers distances to the front, center and back of the green, weighs only 1.8 ounces, and its battery life, while in GPS mode, lasts 8 hours.
garmin.com | $250
MOTOROLA MOTOACTV
All the data you’ve ever wanted about your golf game”on your wrist. The new MOTOACTV from Motorola gives you access to 20,000 global golf courses, measures distances to the front, center and middle of the green, and keeps track of scorecards, clubs and other key stats. On a diet? The MOTOACTV even counts steps and calories burned during your round. We like the online clubhouse feature the most, as it’s synced to MOTOACTV.com, where you can watch a virtual representation of your round.
motorola.com | $250
TECH
GARMIN Approach
The latest GPS unit from Garmin is the Approach G6, a light, slim unit that can fit inside your shirt pocket. What’s best, however, is that it comes preloaded with 25,000 worldwide golf courses and has no hidden fees or subscriptions. Keep track of all kinds of stats and adjust for that day’s pin placement. It’s a caddie in your pocket–and you don’t have to tip it.
garmin.com | $300
CALLAWAY uPro MX
Ever feel like you’re not getting an accurate view on GPS units? Then you might want to consider Callaway’s new uPro MX. In Pro Mode, golfers can see actual aerial imagery and video flyovers of each hole. The compact, 3-ounce device has a 2.2-inch full-color touch screen, and in addition to all the usual GPS features, the uPro MX features AnyPoint technology so you know exactly how far you have left to the pin. Now that’s the kind of course management we like!
callawaygolf.com | $249
INSIGHT iTrainerMini
Weighing just 15 grams and clamping on a club’s shaft just below the grip, the iTrainerMini measures and analyzes swing characteristics no matter what club a golfer is swinging. By utilizing accelerometers and gyroscopes, it gives an accurate reading of how and where the club is moving. What’s coolest, though, is that it sends all the data via Bluetooth to an app that runs on any Android device. Analyzing your swing has never been easier.
insight-sports.com | $199
GOLFLOGIX Smartphone App
GolfLogix has unveiled a few new features for its popular smartphone app, including a club-tracking function, which accurately captures shot distances and locations (and produces a round log for every shot). Other new features include an aerial flyover of every hole with high-end imagery from tee to green, precise distances to the pin and a digital yardage book that allows users to create notes on top of course imagery.
golflogix.com | FREE
TRAINING AIDS
GOLFSTR
When it comes to power, the best way to get more of it is to add width to your golf swing. The wider your arc, the more room you have to develop more centrifugal force and clubhead speed. This also comes from having a left arm straight during the golf swing. If you happen to need a quick and easy tool to do just that, try the Golfstr (short for "Golf Straight"). This easy-to-use device attaches to your arm and reminds you if your left arm starts bending during the stroke. Yes, it’s that simple and surprisingly comfortable, too. After some repeated use, you’ll quickly learn to feel what a proper golf swing should feel like, and we’ll bet you have a few sore muscles in areas you probably didn’t know were critical muscles used in the golf swing (your core, folks).
golfstr.com | $36.95
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SWING SMART
A hot ticket at this year’s PGA Merchandise Show, the Swing Smart uses a small device that attaches to any club, and via Bluetooth, then transmits feedback to an iPhone or iPad (Android compatability is on its way). Using the Swing Smart, one can track tempo, path, clubhead speed and also, with the Peter Kostis-designed Aiming Triangle, dial in the perfect clubface alignment. Wow, seeing your swing in 3D has never been so easy.
swingsmart.com | $249
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DEAD AIM
There aren’t many of these, so add this one to the small list of training aids that double as actual clubs, or vice versa. The Dead Aim Putter uses a series of alignment aids (permanent) and a removable laser and/or clip for perfecting your impact (both are optional, but you should get ’em) to help golfers dial in the perfect alignment, head position and putting stroke. Genius, if you ask us. It’s also a really nice-looking putter, with a solid, stable feel and a smooth end-over-end roll. Now, if only we could find a way to use a laser on the other 13 clubs in the golf bag.
deadaimputters.com | $149-$189
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GRIP SOLID
When it comes to playing your best golf, if you can’t grip the club properly, your chances of ever playing well greatly diminish. If you need a device that will help you feel how the club should come in contact with palms and fingers, the Grip Solid is just the ticket. It not only helps you correctly position the grip in your hands, but it also neutralizes unwanted tension and the classic "death grip." It took a little getting used to, but the product really worked; those palmy, weak grips we had on the club were a thing of the past.
gripsolid.com | $19.95
OPTISHOT
Do you need to keep your golf game in check during the off-season, at night or, frankly, anytime you want? The OptiShot is an affordable golf simulator that we absolutely love. It’s a cinch to use as a tool to get better at home.
dancingdogg.com | $399
THE ORANGE WHIP & ORANGE PEEL
The Orange Whip isn’t new, but it’s still our top pick for helping to improve tempo, balance and rhythm. It doubles as the perfect tool to loosen up before a round, too. There are also several drills and training exercises you can do with it. Add the Orange Peel–which, granted, doesn’t have the portability of the Orange Whip, but is a great product nonetheless–and you have the total package. The Orange Peel is a device you stand on to help you better your swing, "alter your swing plane and improve your balance." Both training aids, either together or separately, are among the most effective training aids we’ve tried in a long while.
orangewhiptrainer.com | $109 & $209
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BENDERSTIK
Obstructive training aids (the kind that get in the way and immediately let you know if you’re doing something wrong) are some of the most effective tools you can use to improve your game. The Benderstik by Mike Bender, PGA, does just that and a whole lot more. It can be used to help correct a handful of swing flaws such as the chicken wing, excessive head movement and more. The Benderstik can be configured to help out just about every part of your game.
benderstik.com | $99
MATZIE ASSIST
The Matzie Assist has been around a long time, and, yes, it still works as well as it did many years ago. The bend shaft, corrective grip and oversized head weight combine to teach golfers to release the hands and clubs more effectively. Other than that, the Matzie is also a great tool for getting loose and keeping your golf muscles toned.
matzie.com | $79
PIVOT PRO
One of the most overlooked aspects of the golf swing is the pivot. And it’s the one thing that, if corrected, can make a huge impact on your game in terms of power and consistency. The PivotPro helps you feel what a perfect pivot should feel like, as well as trains you to pivot your body as you swing. Simply hook your right foot in, and start swinging. We’ve tried it, and it works wonders. And it helps us not only perfect our pivot, but avoid swaying and sliding too much during the swing.
pivotpro.net | $79
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THE RIGHT ANGLE 2
One of the most overlooked aspects of the golf swing is the right arm (left arm for lefties) during the golf swing. How you hinge and position your arm is critical if you want to stay on the proper plane and have a repeatable, powerful golf swing. This is where The Right Angle 2 steps in. Designed to fit around your right arm (it works on the left arm, too, for left-handers), The Right Angle 2 helps you position your right arm perfectly during the swing. The resulting effect is a perfect 90-degree angle at the top of your swing and a correct unhinging motion through the downswing. The auditory clicker feature is a cool one, using sound to let you know when you’re in or out of position.
golfaroundtheworld.com | $49
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MEDICUS POWER METER
We prefer to keep things simple when using our training aids. The PowerMeter does what the name implies–it helps you instantly meter and record your clubhead speed. Using it is a cinch, and it’s especially useful if you’re a player who tends to muscle the ball, which sometimes actually results in a slower swingspeed than if you allow the clubhead to load and release properly. That is, better mechanics always trump bigger muscles (well, almost always).
medicus.com | $129
THE PILL
If you’re looking for instant feedback on the practice green and you want to have a lot of fun doing it, The Pill is just what you’re looking for. Designed using a real golf ball that’s cut on two sides, The Pill lends feedback on well-struck putts (it will roll straight), as well as feedback on poorly struck putts (it will veer aggressively offline). Use two at once for double the feedback!
thepillgolf.com | $12.95
FLATTER & WIDER
By Jeff Yurkiewicz, PGA
One trick I like to use to add extra oomph to my fairway wood shots is to hit a draw. It can be done, and the solution is pretty simple. First, set up with the ball a little farther away from your body. This will add a lot more width to your swing. Second, at the top of your swing, try to keep your hands lower. This will flatten your backswing, making it easier to swing from inside out. Give it a try the next time you need to make one from the fairway. Draws almost always go farther than fades.
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| WOODS ARE STILL A POPULAR CATEGORY, much like what we saw in 2012. But how long will the power-hitting fairway-wood trend last? Looks like 2013 shows no sign of slowing down, as we’ve seen more long-hitting woods than ever before. By the way, hybrids are the de facto clubs in between fairway woods and irons, as even the best players in the world have them in their bag. So what will your set look like this year? More woods? More hybrids? Let this guide help you decide.
Golf Tips Legend |
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Acer
XS
 Key Feature: The nicely priced Acer XS fairway wood clubheads have a forged body that’s coupled with a thin forged face for explosive distance.
Who It’s For: Average players who want the satisfaction that comes with building a club from scratch.
Wow Factor: As usual, these woods are value-minded, but that doesn’t mean they skimp on performance. They’re both really long and forgiving.
Specs: Three models (15_¡, 18_¡, 21_¡) in an endless selection of shafts and grips. (LH available)
hirekogolf.com | $25/clubhead |
Acer
XS Titanium Fairway
Key Feature: The all-titanium construction of the XS is hell-bent on helping golfers hit it farther from the grass. Weight is strategically positioned in the sole plate for added power and stability. Also, the lower lofts help this wood mimic a driver in terms of ballflight. Ka-pow!
Who It’s For: Golfers who want an all-titanium build in their fairway woods, and who appreciate a great value.
Wow Factor: Again, a stellar price, especially considering the club is all titanium.
Specs: Two lofts (14_¡, 17_¡) in stock or custom options.
hirekogolf.com | $79 |
Adams
Speedline SUPER S
 Key Feature: A slot in the sole–just behind the clubface–revs up distance and ball speed. Another slot in the crown boosts trajectory and carry distance. The stainless-steel crown is matte white, face is dark–a nice contrast.
Who It’s For: Golfers needing significant distance from their fairway woods. This is a distance wood, for sure.
Wow Factor: The clubhead is conservatively shaped and low profile, and looks like it can get some serious yardage.
Specs: Three lofts (13.5_¡ 3+-wood, 15_¡ 3-wood, 18_¡ 5-wood), with a Matrix HD Radix 65 graphite shaft. (LH and L available)
adamsgolf.com | $199 |
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Adams
Speedline SUPER LS
Key Feature: A new sole slot and refined crown slot get the ball up without increasing spin, so you’ll get plenty of carry. Its spring-like effect is nearly at the USGA maximum, meaning overall distance should be huge. Face angle, length and swing weight are adjustable.
Who It’s For: Anyone wanting more distance from the fairway and rough. Who needs a driver anyway?
Wow Factor: Holy moly, this club is loooooong!
Specs: Three lofts (13_¡, 15_¡, 18_¡) as well as lefty models, Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage graphite shaft.
adamsgolf.com | $299 |
Callaway
RAZR X Fit Xtreme
 Key Feature: "Speed Frame" clubface has an enlarged sweet spot that generates high ball speed across the clubface for distance. An adjustable hosel allows you to tune shot shape and trajectory for those long par-5s.
Who It’s For: All golfers, especially those who have liked Callaway’s fairway woods for a while. (We have.)
Wow Factor: It looks awesome and sounds powerful. We mean, it sounds awesome and looks powerful–both work.
Specs: Four lofts (3-wood, 4-wood, 5-wood, 7-wood) with an Aldila Trinity graphite shaft.
callawaygolf.com | $269 |
Callaway
X Hot
 Key Feature: A forged "Speed Frame" face, Warbird sole, and a new Internal Standing Wave (which lowers the CG) combine for, you guessed it, explosive distance.
Who It’s For: It’s for all types of players, especially those who have trouble getting their wood shots off the ground.
Wow Factor: Not long ago, this type of long-distance tech would have been more suited for drivers. But now it’s in woods. Wow, hitting fairway woods never felt so…manly!
Specs: Comes in six lofts (15_¡, 17_¡, 19_¡, 21_¡, 23_¡, 25_¡) with Project X Velocity graphite shafts. Also available in X Hot Pro version.
callawaygolf.com | $229 |
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Cleveland
CG Black
 Key Feature: The CG Black woods are a lot like the driver bearing the same name, replete with a lightweight Speed Crown Design. The low CG launches the ball up in a hurry, resulting in longer and straighter shots both off the fairway and from a tee. And who wouldn’t love a Limited Edition Miyazaki C. Kua graphite shaft? We sure do!
Who It’s For: Fans of the CG Black driver.
Wow Factor: It’s light, but doesn’t feel too light. We like that.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (16_¡, 19_¡, 22_¡), with a Miyazaki C. Kua graphite shaft. (LH available)
clevelandgolf.com | $199 |
Cleveland
Classic XL
Key Feature: Variable face thickness makes for a huge sweet spot that increases your odds of hitting it on the screws. In fact, the entire clubface is large. The CG is deep, promoting a mid-high launch and low-spin ballflight.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want a big clubface in their woods.
Wow Factor: The sleek black clubhead looks lethal and performs even better. We bombed driver-like hits with it.
Specs: Three lofts (16_¡ 3-wood, 19_¡ 5-wood, 22_¡ 7-wood) as well as lefty and women’s models, Miyazaki C. Kua 39 Limited Edition shaft. (LH available)
clevelandgolf.com | $179 |
Cobra
AMP Cell
 Key Feature:
Adjustable loft on the steel clubhead means you can change your trajectory for any weather or course conditions, and customize your distance gaps. The "SmartPad" sole protrusion squares the clubface.
Who It’s For: All golfers who want some flare in their woods.
Wow Factor: Great color choices. We especially love getting essentially six fairway woods in one club.
Specs: Two models (13_¡/14_¡/14_¡ Draw, 15_¡/15_¡ Draw, 16_¡ 3/4-wood, 17_¡/18_¡/18_¡ Draw, 19_¡/19_¡ Draw, 20_¡ 5/7-wood), as well as lefty models, Fujikura Fuel graphite shaft.
cobragolf.com | $275
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Cobra
Baffler T-Rail+
Key Feature: A shallow, high-strength steel clubface and low CG act together to boost trajectory, right off of impact. Tungsten sole weights generate high and long ballflight.
Who It’s For: Golfers wanting higher, more penetrating ballflight from their fairway woods. Which speaking of, have a very low profile to help inspire confidence.
Wow Factor: Any Baffler club is great. This is the best yet.
Specs: Four lofts (13_¡ 3+-wood, 16_¡ 3-wood, 18_¡ 5-wood, 20_¡ 7-wood), as well as lefty and women’s models, Graphite Design G-series shaft.
hirekogolf.com | $179 |
Fourteen Golf
SF-511
 Key Feature: Designed for better players who tend to prefer lower-lofted fairway woods, the SF-511 has a compact shape and U-shape sole that handles shots fired off uneven lies just as well as from the fairway. The thin cupface design ensures solid contact across a greater area of the face, and even though it’s made for better players, it still retains a high level of forgiveness.
Who It’s For: Better players who want lower lofts.
Wow Factor: The "highlight film" makes the head look sharp!
Specs: Comes in two lofts (14_¡, 17_¡) with MD-350gf shafts.
fourteengolf.com | $329 |
Mizuno
JPX-825
Key Feature: The multi-thickness, steel clubface, thin crown and thick sole combine to deliver an easy launch, high ball speed and consistent distance. A square clubface angle and internal weighting translates to mis-hit stability, while a beveled sole eases turf interaction.
Who It’s For: Anyone needing help producing meaningful long shots from the fairway.
Wow Factor: A much, much higher launch than we expected.
Specs: Two lofts (15_¡ 3-wood, 18_¡ 5-wood) in right-handed only, Fujikura Orochi Blue Eye 65 graphite shaft.
mizunogolf.com | $199 |
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Nike
VR_S Covert Tour
Key Feature: The adjustable club’s "High Speed Cavity Back"–covered by the crown yet visible from the sole–moves weight to the corners, which boosts forgiveness and mis-hit distance. Dual Axis adjustment allows you to choose loft and face angle independently of each other.
Who It’s For: Better players wanting several loft options in one clubhead. (There’s also a nonadjustable version.)
Wow Factor: Love the adjustable loft and red color.
Specs: Two Lofts (13_¡/17_¡ 3-wood, 17_¡/21_¡ 5-wood), as well as lefty models, Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Silver 70 shaft.
nikegolf.com | $199 |
Orlimar
TriMetal ZX
 Key Feature: Designed to fight the fade, this stainless-steel clubhead features a precisely located tungsten weight, 2_¡ closed face, offset hosel and strong maraging clubface. A low CG helps lift the ball.
Who It’s For: Golfers on a budget who want a bona-fide slice-killer from the fairway.
Wow Factor: It has good DNA; the brand has a great history of producing outstanding fairway woods. Nice price, too.
Specs: Comes in two lofts (3-wood, 5-wood) with an Aldila graphite shaft.
orlimar.com | $199 |
Ping
Anser
Key Feature: Loft is adjustable by +/-1/2_¡, which essentially gives you three fairway woods in one clubhead. That allows you to tune distance and accuracy. The compact steel clubhead has rear sole weighting, which helps generate low-spin ballflights for awesome distance.
Who It’s For: All golfers, from hacker to Tour pro wanting some loft flexibility in a great wood.
Wow Factor: Cool looking, the performance is outstanding.
Specs: Three base lofts (14.5_¡ 3-wood, 16.5_¡ 4-wood, 18.5_¡ 5-wood), Anser TFC 800F graphite shaft.
ping.com | $249 |
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Ping
G25
Key Feature: Designed to be not only long, but also versatile from different lies, these woods have the thinnest face ever in a PING wood. The external sole weight lowers the CG for high, long-flying launch.
Who It’s For: All player types. It’s also specially designed to help players who miss low on the clubface.
Wow Factor: We love the all-black look; and listen up: These are spectacular woods. They’re PING’s best to date.
Specs: Four lofts (15_¡, 16_¡, 18_¡, 21_¡) with PING TFC 189F graphite shafts. (LH available)
ping.com | $229 |
Taylormade
R11S
Key Feature: The classically shaped fairway woods feature an adjustable sole plate and boast improved sound, an optimized CG and a 1.5_¡ FCT sleeve that allows golfers to make an adjustment range of 3_¡ of lie and 3_¡ loft/6_¡ face angle. It’s not a new club, but check out that discounted price!
Who It’s For: Tinkerers and golfers who want the kind of adjustability normally reserved for Tour players.
Wow Factor: 24 different settings here, so have at it!
Specs: Five lofts, Aldila RIP Phenom 70 shaft. Comes in a TP version, too. (LH available)
taylormadegolf.com | $149 |
Taylormade
RocketBallz Stage 2
Key Feature: The clubhead is made of thin, high-strength "Rocket Steel" that helps boost clubhead speed and thus distance by up to 10 yards over last year’s RocketBallz fairway woods. A speed pocket slot on the sole flexes at impact to promote faster ball speed.
Who It’s For: Everyone. There’s also a Tour version that has an adjustable hosel for a finely tuned launch.
Wow Factor: The shallow face design is, in a word, awesome.
Specs: Four lofts (15_¡ 3-wood, 17_¡ 3HL-wood, 19_¡ 5-wood, 23_¡ 7-wood), Matrix RocketFuel 60 shaft.
taylormadegolf.com | $249 |
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Titleist
913F
Key Feature: A classic pear-shaped clubhead that delivers distance with stability. The flat sole weight and tapered hosel help position CG lower than in its predecessor 910F, for less spin and more stability, forgiveness and distance. Loft and lie can be independently adjusted.
Who It’s For: Golfers wanting distance and forgiveness.
Wow Factor: These flat-out crush the ball.
Specs: Five lofts (13.5_¡, 15_¡, 17_¡, 19_¡, 21_¡), Aldila RIP Phenom 80, Mitsubishi Diamana D+ White 82, Mitsubishi Diamana S+ Blue 72 and Titleist Bassara W 55/45 shafts.
titleist.com | $279 |
Titleist
913F.d Low Spin
 Key Feature: A full pear-shaped clubhead that delivers distance with lower spin than 913F, from low and forward weighting for a more penetrating flight. The flat sole weight and tapered hosel help position CG low. Loft and lie can be independently adjusted.
Who It’s For: Serious golfers wanting spin reduction.
Wow Factor: Remind us, why do we need a driver? Wow!
Specs: Two lofts (13.5_¡, 15_¡), Aldila RIP Phenom 80, Mitsubishi Diamana D+ White 82, and Mitsubishi S+ Blue 72 shafts.
titleist.com | $279 |
Tour Edge Exotics
XCG6
Key Feature: A beta-titanium cupface, high-density steel body and tungsten sole plate are combo-brazed together, resulting in more efficient energy at impact. The deep-faced wood has most of its total clubhead weight in the heel and toe, for stability and forgiveness. Variable face thickness helps mis-hit distance.
Who It’s For: All golfers.
Wow Factor: We love deep-faced fairway woods. A lot.
Specs: Six lofts (11.5_¡, 13_¡, 15_¡, 16.5_¡, 18_¡, 21_¡) with an Exotics Matrix Ozik HD or Graphite Design Tour AD graphite shafts..
KEEP YOUR HEAD STILL
By Dan Martin, PGA
The Fault: Many players are told to keep their head still during their swing, which ends up leading to a poor backswing position. It’s true that the head shouldn’t move up and down a lot, but it must move a bit side to side, especially in the backswing. Most players who try to keep their head exactly still end up swaying their hips and getting their club in a position that makes it very difficult to strike the ball solid. The result? Usually a slice.
The Fix: Try the natural backswing drill. Assume your setup position and fold your arms across your chest. Then simply turn your head back over your right shoulder until you can see an object that’s directly behind you. Do this five times. On the fifth time, without changing your body position, simply turn your head back to see the ball. This is your natural backswing turn. Note that your head has to move a bit sideways to get you into a great position. Once you understand this, getting your arms and club in position is much easier and more comfortable.
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| THE IRONS IN YOUR BAG deserve some proper attention this year. How so? Simple. Maybe you’re new to the game, maybe you’ve played for awhile. Either way, you need a set of irons that fit your game and your swing properly. After all, both your swing and game are likely to change through time, and if your irons don’t adjust with you, you’re not playing to your highest potential. So, whether you play with your current or new irons this year, do yourself a favor and sign up for a clubfitting session. You’ll be amazed at what you might find, and the confidence boost can really help.
Golf Tips Legend |
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Acer
XS Forged
Key Feature: Forged and milled, the XS Forged irons are a shotmaker iron for advanced shotmaking and maneuverability. Thanks to a CNC-milling process, these forged clubs have a cavity that’s usually found in cast clubheads. Meaning, although they’re better player clubs, they’re still long and forgiving.
Who It’s For: Better players, but not exclusively.
Wow Factor: These are silky smooth and nicely balanced.
Specs: Comes in 3-PW with stock options or more than 40 shafts and 100 grip options to choose from.
hirekogolf.com | $49 |
Adams
Idea Super S
Key Feature: A half hollow construction increases ball speed. Impact stability means straighter hits and a more pure ball strike. A thin clubface helps increase ball speed and improves shotshaping. An undercut cavity design enhances feel and performance, for long and accurate shots. Need we say more?
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers.
Wow Factor: The ball gets airborne incredibly fast.
Specs: 5-PW (comes with choice of two hybrids) in KBS Tour 90 steel or Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage graphite shaft.
adamsgolf.com | $599/$699 |
Adams
Idea Pro a12
Key Feature: Forged of carbon steel, these irons are poised as a true player’s set, as long as that player wants some added forgiveness in the mix. The heel-toe weighting is amplified in the longer irons for more forgiveness, and less differentiated in the shorter irons for real shotmaking.
Who It’s For: Good-to-better players who want the feel and look of forged irons with forgiveness in long irons.
Wow Factor: What a soft, buttery feel!
Specs: Available (4-GW) with KBS Smoke Tour Steel shafts or Mitsubishi JAVLN graphite shafts.
adamsgolf.com | $599/$699 |
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Callaway
X Hot
Key Feature: Variable face thickness and the company’s "Hyperbolic Face Technology" create a large sweet spot and increased ball speed across the face. A deep clubface with undercut cavity enables each individual iron to maximize ball speed. A dual-material medallion fine-tunes sound and promotes a crisp, dynamic feel.
Who It’s For: Folks who want distance in their iron set.
Wow Factor: Their great look and long hitting. Nuff said.
Specs: Available (3-LW) for righties and lefties (except LW), with Speed Step steel and graphite shafts.
callawaygolf.com | $699/899 |
Callaway
X Hot Pro
Key Feature: The company’s "J-Face" technology allows for power and solid feel. The clubface has very precise grooves. A dual-material medallion fine-tunes sound and promotes a crisp, dynamic feel at high ball speeds.
Who It’s For: Better players.
Wow Factor: They’re like the Tom Brady of irons. Great looks and performance to boot. (Did we just say that?)
Specs: Available (3-AW) for righties and lefties (except AW), with Project X 95 Flighted steel or custom Aldila VS Proto or Callaway custom graphite shafts.
callawaygolf.com | $799/$999 |
Callaway
X Forged
Key Feature: Designed with direct input from the com-pany’s Tour pros, these are pure forgings with more aggressive grooves and extreme precision, for solid feel, ballflight and turf interaction. The chrome finish appeals to good golfers, while tightly spaced grooves promote more aggressive shot shaping.
Who It’s For: Better players who love that forged feelin’.
Wow Factor: Feel free to curve the ball any way you want.
Specs: Available (2-PW) for righties and lefties, with Project X PXI steel shaft.
callawaygolf.com | $999 |
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Cleveland
588 Altitude
Key Feature: This hybrid-iron set features full hollow construction for distance and forgiveness. Seamless set transition eases playability. Face Forged Technology enhances ball speed, distance and feel.
Who It’s For: Those who want serious game improvement.
Wow Factor: Easiest irons we’ve tried when it comes to getting the ball airborne. It’s almost like cheating. But it’s not. They’re insanely easy to play with.
Specs: Available (3-SW) for righties, lefties and women, with Traction 85 steel or Actionlite 55 graphite shafts.
clevelandgolf.com | $699/$799 |
Cleveland
588 MT
Key Feature: MT stands for Mid Trajectory. A constant blade length throughout the set, the blade height gets taller in the shorter irons. Full Hollow Construction and internal weighting promote a low and deep CG to enhance distance and forgiveness. A progressive set profile improves playability. A vibration dampener in the back softens impact.
Who It’s For: All players who want to look like players.
Wow Factor: All-around, our favorite irons from Cleveland.
Specs: Available (3-SW) for righties, lefties and women, with Traction 85 steel or Actionlite 55 graphite shafts.
clevelandgolf.com | $699/$799 |
Cleveland
588 TT
Key Feature: T stands for Tour Trajectory. Constant blade height with progressively longer blade length throughout the set promotes more forgiveness in the longer irons and more penetrating trajectory on shots struck with the short irons. A cavity undercut generates more ball speed and accuracy on mis-hits. Forgiveness is in the house!
Who It’s For: Forged-iron fans who want everything.
Wow Factor: Loads of forgiveness, power and…see above.
Specs: Available (3-SW) for righties and lefties, with Traction 85 steel or Actionlite 55 graphite shafts.
clevelandgolf.com | $699/$799 |
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Cobra
AMP Cell
Key Feature: Metalwood face-weld construction with the company’s E9 Face Technology creates a light and strong clubface with a huge sweet spot–yielding distance and forgiveness. Perimeter weighting helps position the CG behind the face, while the sculpted V-Skid sole improves turf interaction. This means straighter hits.
Who It’s For: All player types. Especially ones who like color.
Wow Factor: Cool colors and solid performance. Nice…
Specs: Available (3-LW), with Cobra AMP Cell Iron steel or True Temper Dynalite 90 graphite shafts. (LH available)
cobragolf.com | $699 |
Cobra
AMP Forged
Key Feature: The forged clubheads have a uniform and aligned grain structure, for precision, smooth-sounding impact and solid feel. The 3- through 7__Òirons feature high-MOI tungsten inserts, while the 3- through 9-irons have progressively larger CNC-milled pockets that redistribute weight for higher launch and more consistent distance.
Who It’s For: Better sticks who want maneuverability.
Wow Factor: They’re more forgiving than they appear!
Specs: Available (3-GW) for righties and lefties, with FST KBS Tour Plus steel shafts.
cobragolf.com | $899/$999 |
Cobra
Baffler
Key Feature: The high-MOI, progressive oversized face means forgiveness and a low CG to help the ball get airborne. A wide, railed sole reduces turf drag from all lies. A cavity medallion tunes vibration and sound at impact.
Who It’s For: Mid- to higher-handicappers.
Wow Factor: We were baffled by how easy these are to hit (with some slice reduction for us). On no, we didn’t just say that did we? We did. They’re also available in a mixed set with hybrids.
Specs: Available (4-SW) for righties and lefties, with Cobra Baffler Hybrid iron graphite shafts.
cobragolf.com | $499 |
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F2
SE Irons
Key Feature: A dogleg hosel that virtually eliminates any possibility of shanking the ball off the hosel of the club. But that’s not all it does. This unique design helps enhance the sweet spot and reduces drag in the rough or sand.
Who It’s For: Golfers willing to try an anti-shank iron that may look radical from in the back, actually looks really nice and pleasing to the eye from the address position.
Wow Factor: Come on now. That crazy offset!
Specs: Available in 3-PW in Formosa/Femco steel or graphite shafts. (LH available)
f2golf.com | $499/$599 |
Fourteen
TC-330
Key Feature: A low and deep, precisely located CG combines with a wide sole to maximize distance and enhance pure contact. A progressive sole design means the irons increase in length and the sole widens toward the long irons, to ease shot-making. A progressive swing weight complements the progressive sole design.
Who It’s For: Fourteen is a precise company. These are for golfers with 80-98 mph clubhead speeds.
Wow Factor: Very easy to hit and well made. Spendy, though!
Specs: Available (4-PW) with NS 950GH HT steel shaft.
fourteengolf.com | $1,399 |
Infinity
Hot Spot
Key Feature: A very forgiving and deeply perimeter-weighted club that also has a high-bounce sole to prevent digging too much into the turf. Add some progressive offset and you have a high-launching set of irons.
Who It’s For: The perimeter weighting is suited for high-handicappers, but the inventive, narrow, high-bounce sole is a feature that even middle handicappers will enjoy.
Wow Factor: They’re very, very, very forgiving.
Specs: Available in 4-SW in a variety of steel or graphite shaft options.
infinitigolf.com | $512 |
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Mizuno
JPX-825
Key Feature: The brand bills these as its most-forgiving iron ever, thanks to a pocket cavity and extreme heel-toe weighting. A high COR and multi-thickness clubface translate to distance. Scientifically designed "Harmonic Impact Technology" yields solid impact sound and feel. A multi-material cavity badge enhances feel.
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicaps.
Wow Factor: They perform exactly as described. Awesome.
Specs: Available (4-GW) with True Temper Dynalite Gold XP steel or Fujikura Orochi graphite shafts.
mizunogolf.com | $699/$899 |
Mizuno
JPX-825 Pro Irons
Key Feature: Billed as the ultimate game-improvement irons for players, these boast a cavity that yields forgiveness where needed and a more workable ballflight in scoring irons for accuracy. They aim to produce solid feel with consistent distance across more of the clubface.
Who It’s For: 6-18 handicappers with a nod to the lower ones.
Wow Factor: Tons of forgiveness. Hmm, they feel forged, look forged, but are they forged? Of course they are.
Specs: Available (4-GW) with True Temper Dynalite Gold XP steel or Fujikura Orochi graphite shafts.
mizunogolf.com | $899/$1,099 |
Mizuno
MP-H4
Key Feature: Patented Grain Flow Forging provides a soft, solid, consistent feel throughout the set. Three-head construction is used in each set: The 2- through 4-irons have a deep CG for long, consistent distance with an easy, high launch; the hollow 5- through 7-irons boast a large sweet spot for controlled distance and forgiveness; 8-PW sport a compact half cavity for accuracy and trajectory control.
Who It’s For: 2 to 14 handicaps.
Wow Factor: Sorry, we’re too busy cleaning up our drool.
Specs: Available (2-PW) with TT Dynamic Gold steel shafts.
mizunogolf.com | $1,099 |
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Nike
VR_S Covert
 Key Feature: Cavity-back irons with weight at the corners enhance mis-hit forgiveness and distance. A thin, dual-bevel sole combines with a fast face for distance. The proprietary NexCOR variable-thickness clubface aims to deliver fast ball speed and long shots.
Who It’s For: Distance and forgiveness seekers.
Wow Factor: They’re easily the best irons from Nike, who, um, just picked up the next greatest player ever.
Specs: Available (4-AW) with True Temper Dynalite 90 steel or Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Black 70 graphite shafts.
nikegolf.com | $699/$799 |
Ping
Anser
Key Feature: Geared more for the better player, the forged Anser irons blend Tour-like playability with the type of forgiveness we’ve all come to expect from a PING iron. The hollow sole and tungsten sole component lower the CG for higher shots, and the perimeter weighting enhances the sweet spot. Wait, these are forged? Wow!
Who It’s For: Golfers who love the feel of a forged iron and want "long-iron forgiveness with short-iron control."
Wow Factor: PING’s most well-constructed iron. Ever.
Specs: Comes in 3-PW with Project X steel shafts. (Avail LH)
ping.com | $1,349 |
Ping
G20
Key
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