I once had a buddy who loved to break out an old holiday-flavored saying when I or anybody else tried jump on the excuse train: “If ifs and buts were candy and nuts, we’d all have a merry Christmas.”
We golfers can relate. Who among us hasn’t uttered these words or something similar …
“If that putt had broken left instead of right like it was supposed to, I’d have birdied and won the bet.”
“I thought I pulled the right club but the wind shifted the second I struck the ball.”
“If I’d gone ahead and bought that new driver when it was on sale, I’d be bombing the ball 10 yards farther right now.”
And on and on. Excuses are like tees — we’ve got plenty of them in our pockets, and if we run out, we’ll darned sure find a new batch as fast as we can.
Still, I assume that most of us manage to have a merry Christmas anyway, especially if we find a new golf gift under the tree. Whatever it is — spanking new putter or wedge, GPS device that does everything but cook breakfast, the most comfy pair of shoes yet … heck, even a 100-pack of those tees we were just looking for — we’ll tear into it with the joy of a three-year-old and immediately start dreaming of the next tee time even if there’s two feet of snow outside (those of you living in Southern California, Arizona, Florida and other southern tier locales, please keep your snickers to yourselves).
That’s why putting together our biggest Holiday Gift Guide yet, was so much fun. Not only do we get to salivate over the latest score-slashing clubs and balls, picture ourselves decked out in pro-grade finery from head to toe and test out cool training aids both well-established and hot off the production line, we appreciate the opportunity to present several dozen of them to you over 20 colorful pages. Suddenly that shopping trip you see coming down the fairway just got a whole lot easier, whether you brave the mall or wear out your clicking finger.
But what about the fine crew of teaching pros who bring so much knowledge and wisdom to the pages of Golf Tips each time out? What’s on their wish lists this year? Just for grins we thought we’d query a few.
Alison Curdt, 2015 LPGA National Teacher of the Year — “The Orange Whip Wedge would be an amazing wish to have under the tree. This training aid is the perfect solution to building great tempo in your chipping and pitching motion. It also helps people who suffer from the ‘yips’ create a more effective and smooth motion. The Orange Whip Wedge is the perfect complement to those who are wishing for a better short game this holiday season. My students have enjoyed using it so far and their wishes of better golf are coming true!” [Read our review of all Orange Whip products on page 56.]
Barry Goldstein, PGA, Inverrary Country Club, Fort Lauderdale, Florida — “All I want for Christmas is …18 more holes to play at Pebble Beach Golf Links with my daughter and I in the perfect California sun.”
John Hughes, PGA, John Hughes Golf, Orlando, Florida — “An all-in-one app for all teaching technology, making it easier for clients to access all their data and communicate with me. And more time for students to practice and enjoy the game.”
Chris Johnston, PGA, Twin Brook Golf Academy, Tinton Falls, New Jersey — “The first present I hope to receive from the jolly old man, is a book that is not only going to help my golf, it is going to help my Health: Fit For Golf Fit For Life by Randy Myers. I am sure that I will discover some valuable exercises that I can give my students to help them become more fit for golf and life. The second is a training aid called The Hanger that I know will help my students improve their swing and will help me become a better teacher. It helps keep the club face square during the swing and promotes a proper release and also gets rid of the ‘flip’ through the shot.”
Brandon Stooksbury, PGA, Idle Hour Club, Macon, Georgia and author of The Wedge Book — “A trip to the Titleist Performance Institute to work directly with Bob Vokey for a wedge fitting, followed by a visit to the Scotty Cameron putting studio for a putter fitting with Scotty would pretty much be my “dream” experience. The quality of the facilities combined with the expertise of the best in the business would make for an incredible day.”
And what do I want under the tree? What all of us do, really: The promise of a new year of great shots, memorable rounds and lower scores. I’d take that over candy and nuts any day.
From all of us at Golf Tips, here’s to a healthy and happy holiday season.
The Bloodline R1-J Blade putter was played in the U.S. Open at Erin Hills in June. Although the brand only launched earlier this year, both their putter models have now been played on the PGA TOUR by players who have multiple major championship wins. The game-changing R1-J Blade allows a player to clearly see where the putter is aligned because they can walk behind it while it stands alone on the green. From behind the face, it’s possible to see the club, ball, target line, and hole without having to tilt your head or use your peripheral vision. Bloodline’s putter technology conforms to the Rules of Golf. In designing its putters, Bloodline removed as much weight as possible from the shaft and grip. According to Bloodline Co-Founder, Larry Bischmann, “Designing a putter shaft that is unlike anything that’s been played before makes an important difference. We created an ultralight shaft that does not compromise on performance and incorporates an oversized gripping section.” This pioneering construction enables Bloodline putters to have an extremely low balance point that helps give more feel and release during the stroke. The Bloodline R1-J Blade putter construction features a CNC milled aluminum face, body, and hosel that are bonded to a stainless steel sole plate. Additionally, a unique sole design was developed to help the putter stand alone without interfering with the ground during the swing.
The Golf Tips editors fell clubhead over heels for these golf balls through the heart of the 2017 golf season. In a crowded market they truly stand out for their feel, amazing distance and workability — all for under 30 bucks a dozen. Developed using data gathered from more than two million in-person and online ball fitting sessions, the e6 series is the company’s most popular ball because testing proves it is nine yards longer and 31 percent straighter than leading competitors; one GT tester who hit far more fairways than he missed with these babies can attest to that. The new models improve upon this heritage and offer players the choice to select a feel that suits individual preference. The e6 SOFT provides wonderful feel throughout the bag, reduces driver spin for longer distance and optimizes launch with irons/wedges for superior stopping power, while the e6 SPEED delivers explosive initial ball velocity for incredible straight distance. Both models feature new Delta Dimple Technology, minimizing air resistance to further enhance distance and accuracy. Which do we like the best? Please don’t force us to choose.
Bridgestone Golf
In the new F-Max family, Cobra Golf boasts the lightest, easiest to swing woods in company history, with men’s and women’s versions of drivers, fairways and hybrids. Each combines super light-weight configurations with the best of game improvement technologies to deliver COBRA’s most forgiving and easy to hit woods ever.
GEN i1 is the world’s first and only intelligent golf ball. Its core contains a nine-axis embedded sensor and on-board MCU that acts like a miniature launch monitor inside. The “smart” ball is calibrated specifically for putting measuring initial direction, speed, impact force, and skid/skip. The data is then relayed through an app to your mobile device via Bluetooth. The GEN i1 also comes with a putter sensor on the handle that will show you the “cause and effect” of your stroke and ball. The GEN i1 app is very easy and intuitive. Once the user creates an account, the GEN i1 will be able to assess his/her skill level and provide a customized practice plan that will entertain while improving their skills. The games and drills will challenge golfers while creating routines that will help them to improve squaring up the face and consistent tempo to improve distance control.
FlightScope
They might be the best-made irons in the world, forged from the same Japanese steel that the samurais used in their swords: Strong and soft at the same time. Now Miura Golf has introduced two new irons to their MG Collection — the CB-1008 cavity back for higher handicappers and the MB-5005 muscle back for better players. The CB-1008 is forged from a billet of soft carbon steel. It features a wider sole (19mm on the 7-iron) that significantly contributes to the iron’s playability and forgiveness. That weight distribution in the sole, combined with a lower center of gravity, delivers increased launch angles especially in the mid- and long irons. A wider sole and a precise distribution of weight are design characteristics which enhance the playability of this iron. For the MB-5005, approximately 15 grams of weight from the muscleback part of the iron were moved, a major modification to the design of a typical blade iron. Thus, this iron looks like a blade but plays like a cavity back. The redistribution of weight in the head allows for an expanded sweet spot and lower center of gravity. The MB-5005 is also slightly longer from heel to toe, delivering a feeling of confidence at address.
MLA Golf has developed a patented alignment technology that will revolutionize your putting. This is how it works: we all have internal guides to compare and analyze sensory information that control pace and direction of putts. MLA Putters worked with Dr. Lennart Högman, Ph.D., who has studied the perceptual process for more than 20 years and has performed studies that have revised the science between the human’s perceptions and the human being’s motor skills. He says: “An alignment system that acts upon multiple line detectors is a key to obtain veridical motion perception and a perfect in-line stroke surface.” The brain consists of 100,000 line detectors that are divided into a number of groups that help us decide what is straight. A simple line, for example, activates a group of detectors. When several groups of detectors are activated, these help the brain to make correct judgments. MLA putters are designed to take advantage of these guides. Their patented alignment technology activates the maximum number of coordinated detectors for optimal aiming judgment. The Tour XDream putter pushes everything to its limits — perfect weight distribution with all benefits of greater roll and higher MOI, including an interchangeable weight system along with the world leading U.S. patented alignment system, will make this putter the most important club in your bag. It’s 100 percent CNC milled.
Scotty Cameron has added a high-MOI mallet with enhanced toe flow to his new Futura line of putters — the Futura 5.5M — combining the forgiveness of a mallet with the feel of a blade. Inspired by Scotty’s work with players on the worldwide professional tours, the Futura 5.5M offers a new mallet option featuring the alignment and high-MOI characteristics of the Futura line coupled with a neck configuration that promotes a flowing, arced putting stroke more commonly associated with blade style putters. The new style was inspired by PGA Championship winner Justin Thomas. The Futura 5.5M extends the popular Futura line with a model designed for players seeking a smaller mallet with additional toe flow and forgiveness. The compact mallet — about 10 percent smaller than the similarly-shaped Futura 7M — is designed for easy alignment with built-in toe flow. Shorter single-bend shaft configuration means additional toe hang, promoting an arced path and flowing putting stroke. The face and sole are milled from lightweight 6061 aircraft grade aluminum, integrated with precision-milled 303 stainless steel, moves weight back and to the perimeter, allowing for a larger putter head with enhanced high-MOI performance; Tour-proven heel-and-toe sole weighting technology increases stability and forgiveness. And the mid-milled face has vibration dampening technology for soft feel with 3.5 degrees of loft to deliver optimum roll characteristics
Not all two-piece golf balls are created equal, except if you’re talking about the white and yellow versions of Srixon’s brand new Q-Star, which taps into the same premium technologies found in Srixon’s higher-priced tour balls but offers them in a two-piece construction that is more durable and affordable. It features a lower-compression Energetic Gradient Growth Core, a new third generation Spin Skin coating, and a more efficient 338 Aerodynamic Speed Dimple Pattern. These three technologies combine to deliver balanced performance: longer, more accurate driving distance, better iron control, and improved greenside spin. “The Q-Star’s built-in tour technologies should help golfers see great performance in every aspect of their golf game,” said Michael Ross, Senior Product Manager at Srixon. “This is the golf ball for players who seek maximum playability from a more durable, two-piece design.”
TaylorMade Golf, expands its P700 series iron lineup with the addition of the P790 irons, a forged players distance iron engineered with new SpeedFoam Technology for golfers seeking the forged look and feel of a players iron with increased distance, forgiveness and playability. Meanwhile, the new P730 irons build off of company’s storied heritage of major championship winning blade irons, especially with the 2011 and 2014 Tour Preferred MB.
With yet another expansion of its popular Titleist 718 iron line, Titleist seeks to build on its reputation for producing clubs that run the gamut of player abilities and needs. Titleist’s 718 iron lineup offers six models – AP1, AP2, AP3, T-MB, CB and MB – precisely engineered to meet the performance requirements of players at every level of the game.
The new My Pro V1 experience, now available through Titleist.com, lets golfers add their personal touches to the best performing, most consistent golf balls in the game. Through the My Pro V1 portal, golfers can customize and order unique Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls by selecting a custom single- or double-digit play number, adding personalized text and/or choosing a favorite logo or icon. The order is then sent directly to the Titleist Custom Operations Plant in New Bedford, Mass., where it is custom made, hand-packed and shipped by Titleist associates. Available customization options include: Custom play numbers of 00 and 1 through 99; more than 200 logo and icon options, including Major League Baseball team logos, collegiate team logos, and an exclusive collection of icons covering a variety of interests, hobbies, sports, countries, holidays and special occasions; and personalization in up to three lines of text (per side), 17 characters per line, in Black, Red, Green, Blue or Pink ink. Popular custom play number choices include lucky or favorite numbers, athlete jersey numbers, special dates and low rounds. The combination of a custom play number with personalization and/or logo is often used to commemorate a holiday, birthday, wedding, graduation, anniversary or other significant date or event. The most played golf balls at every level of competitive golf and best-selling golf balls around the world, Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls are precisely designed and manufactured to provide total performance on every shot. This combination of exceptional distance, consistent flight, superior short-game spin and control, soft feel and long-lasting durability makes them the best fit for golfers of all skill levels and swing speeds.
Arccos touts this produce as golf’s “No. Performance Tracking System.” The second-generation 360 combines Live Shot Tracking, GPS 2.0 and a proprietary Tour Analytics platform to help golfers of all abilities lower their scores and have more fun. Boasting new sensors that are 50 percent smaller and lighter than the first generation Arccos system, Arccos 360 automatically records every shot a golfer makes without the need for tagging or other disruptions to your game. It then analyzes a player’s data in real-time, revealing strengths and weaknesses to enhance on-course decision-making. Users with at least five rounds completed using Arccos 360 can access a subscription for Arccos Caddie, golf’s first artificial intelligence platform which uses data from Arccos users as well as GPS information to provide users with suggestions for their optimal strategy on nearly any hole in the world. Compatible with iPhone and Android devices, Arccos also provides an industry-leading GPS 2.0 system that includes rangefinder distances to any point on 40,000 courses and one-touch, front/middle/back yardages to the green.
In an effort to continue catering to over 95 percent of PGA Tour pros and top amateurs who trust Bushnell laser rangefinders, the Pro X2 is engineered with Slope-Switch Technology allowing the golfer to easily toggle in and out of Bushnell’s patented slope mode. The new function allows the golfer to utilize Slope to get compensated distances when needed and have a USGA conforming device for tournament play. The Pro X2 has rubber armored metal housing that makes the device fully IPX7 waterproof, incredible range capabilities of up to 1,300 yards (450+ yards to a flag), second generation E.S.P. (Extreme. Speed. Precision.) and PinSeeker with JOLT Technology. Dual Display Technology allows users to easily toggle between the bright red display featuring VDT (Vivid Display Technology) or the crisp black display. When the golfer aims the Pro X2 at the flag, JOLT Technology will provide short, vibrating bursts to reinforce Bushnell’s advanced PinSeeker Technology has isolated the target and locked onto the flag. E.S.P. provides yardage five times faster and more accurately than ever before. Not only has the acquisition speed been increased to a lightning fast level, E.S.P. provides half-yard accuracy from five to 125 yards, and the distance is displayed to 1/10th of a yard. Having more accurate distances creates the confidence the golfer to hit every shot with confidence.
IZZO Golf and Callaway Golf make for a formidable team in the golf distance measuring device space (they do training aids and accessories too). Their new laser rangefinders include the Callaway 300 Pro and the Callaway 200. The 300 Pro includes features such as slope adjusted yardage and pin acquisition technology in a package that, they declare, costs less than the competition. The Callaway 200 combines affordability and functionality in a precise and compact laser rangefinder. Also offered are several new GPS watches. The Callaway ALLSPORT and the Callaway GOLFIT combine on course golf GPS technology with off the course fitness components. Both of these watches can be linked to your smartphone using our free app to give you alerts and notifications. The Callaway GPSy is our hot selling wristwatch which can be worn comfortably on and off the golf course. Finally, the unique Callaway ECLIPSE has the same features of the GPSy but can be clipped to your bag or to your belt loop for versatility and convenience.
PuttOUT
We don’t often come across a product these days that manages to break new ground in golf instruction without the use of some measure of high-tech wizardry, but Shoe Tips do exactly that, and they’re decidedly low-tech. Using ShoeTips is easy. Before you play, select two swing thoughts you want to remember from the 18 provided. Insert the labels securely into the two base clips and slide the clips easily, and snugly, over your shoelaces. The reminders will be in full view on your shoes as you address the ball. To use them on your golf bag instead, simply insert the base clips through the slots on an included bag tag. Now each time you select a club you can remember what you had wanted to concentrate on and clear your mind of the thoughts that interfere with making a good shot. Whether you wear them on your shoes or display them on your Bag Tag, ShoeTips is permitted under the Rules of Golf for amateurs and pros worldwide. ShoeTips’ 18 familiar swing thoughts were chosen based on input from golf pros and sports psychologists. The labels are easy to change and organized into three categories — focus, relating to your mind; feel, to your body; and technique, to your swing mechanics. Can’t find the tip you want? Write your own custom tips on the reverse side of the labels with an indelible marker. Golf’s greatest players, instructors and coaches, sports psychologists, writers, and scientific research on performance and the mental game all agree: Regardless of a person’s skill level, if you can focus completely on, and become fully absorbed in the task at hand, with nothing left over for worry or doubt, you’ll achieve a state of peak performance.
SkyCaddie’s newest GPS watch is slim and comfortable with a lightweight profile and large, easy to read display. It offers35,000 preloaded courses worldwide, ready to play. One great feature: Accurate distances to front, center and back of each green. One number is not enough. To hit more greens you need the front and back distances. This creates a larger landing area and makes it easier to pick the best club and hit more greens. The iOS version has Bluetooth smartphone notifications and can handle calls, email, texts and more. Use the smart phone and SkyGolf360 app to register. The digital scorecard scores up to 20 rounds and Bluetooth also syncs your scores to SkyGolf 360 Cloud storage. And check out the Multi-Sport Odometer: Pace of play, run/walk track distance, time speed, pace, location, laps and calories burned. The improved lithium-ion rechargeable battery lasts up to 13hrs in play mode.
The most technologically advanced laser rangefinder from TecTecTec, the VPRODLX 1K can accurately measure distances up to 1,000 yards and is precise within one yard. The premium, multilayered optical lens combined with diopter adjustment and 6x magnification provide an ultra-clear and accurate view. It features three scanning modes for every situation to help players measure distances to the pin, hazards, etc. – Pinseeker Mode, First Target Priority, and Continuous Scan Mode. Golf Tips editors tested every mode for months and were impressed with the Pinseeker especially; it picks up the flag in a jiffy and you get the right number in short order. Available in standard and “S” editions (which features PinSlope Technology to calculate elevation-adjusted distances to the target), both are incredibly lightweight (0.41 lbs), durable and waterproof. Free with purchase is a shock-resistant carrying case, CR2 battery, wrist strap, microfiber cleaning cloth and quick start guide. All TecTecTec rangefinders are backed by a two-year warranty, 
ALINE has created a new class of golf equipment that replaces your shoes insoles was founded in 2005 by a team dedicated to improving performance and health from the ground up. The #1 internal golf shoe technology on the PGA Tour 
Antigua’s 2017 line of polos and outerwear features new fabrics, color schemes and patterns. One of the new women’s short sleeve polo styles, named Wildfire, features a cotton-like closed mesh poly heather fabric that utilizes the holographic trend in the printed box pattern accents the top of each sleeve and on the zipper placket. Another short sleeve polo style playing on the holographic trend is Beam. This polo uses a multi-colored foil print all-over the garment. The print is subtle, featuring small angled lines which keep the polo from being overly audacious. Meanwhile on the men’s side, trending color combinations and uniquely constructed performance fabrications of supple jerseys with spandex and three-dimensional jacquards and soft-to-the touch piques makes each golf wear polo a stand alone fashion style. Styled with an equal offering of smoothly laying flat knit collars or a tailored cut-and-sew self fabric collar expands the collection’s offering to appeal to the widest variety of tastes. The polos are designed into an extensive range of trend driven engineered chest stripes and solids as seen in the style Unite. The foremost direction in new outerwear was the Arctic style, which introduced a diamond quilted heather jacquard and fleeced jersey combo that offer dual wearability on and off the course. Arctic’s success inspired an update combining a soft cotton-like ottoman texture paired with an engineered horizontal on-sleeve stripe quilted fabric combined into a piece dyed solid fabric blocked half zip pullover, style Anchorage. Finally, offering direction in fabrication by utilizing a light weight reversible jacquard textured two-tone knit style is Profile, offered in Antigua’s expanded Spring ’17 color palette. It can be paired with any fashion polo to embellish any and every wardrobe.
The first golf-specific vest to be constructed using PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Boost, the Bradley Allan vest delivers unprecedented warmth-to-thickness for maximum performance in a lightweight, minimal silhouette. Available in a chic Graphite mélange grey, the vest is the perfect layering piece that seamlessly flows from course to everyday life.
Hear that sound? It’s the clear and constant peal of applause from golfers around the world who appreciate ECCO’s craftsmanship and attention to golf-specific detail. Their shoes are comfortable, sturdy and designed to dazzle, and that includes their off-the-links models, too
coLLo Apparel makes high performance, UPF 50+ sunblocking men’s golf shirts that are environmentally friendly. Each shirt in the Spring and Hotline collections is made from fabric containing 15 recycled plastic water bottles and is designed for maximum athletic performance and sun protection. They feature a patent pending collar design that is extra high, especially around the back of the neck. And is structured with internal collar stays to assure that it does not collapse and get “floppy” while you play a round of golf, assuring maximum sun protection. At the same time, the soft, stretchable fabric used in every coLLo coLLar assures that your neck will stay cool, dry, and comfortable.
A versatile layering option on and off the course, the Bruce full-zip jacket features 3-layer GORE Windstopper fabric combined with PrimaLoft padding. Completely windproof, water resistant and breathable, the jacket offers thermoregulatory properties that keeps the body at optimum performance temperature while letting excess heat and moisture escape.
Legendary Headwear, offers two new caps featuring what it calls Cloud-Fit technology: The mesh-backed C200 and the closed-back Perfecto-C The caps’ sweatband features soft performance fabric-lined memory foam that is infused with temperature regulating gel. “We introduced this exciting new technology at the recent 2017 PGA Fashion & Demo Experience in Las Vegas and people who tried the caps on commented on how comfortable and cool they felt,” said Steve Cunliffe, Legendary Headwear President. The C200 is available in nine colors including black/white, TX rust/white, forest/stone, charcoal/white, navy/marlin, brown/stone, olive/camo, full black and full navy. The Perfecto-C CLOUD-FIT cap comes in two sizes and in 5 colors including white, black, navy, khaki and stone.
The Minimus has been one of the most successful footwear collections since New Balance entered the golf market. The new Minimus Tour and Minimus SL are high performance, lightweight, athletic-style golf shoes that feature waterproof uppers and a REVLite midsoles designed for ultimate comfort. The Minimus Tour, the first shoe in the line with spikes, while the Minimus SL is spikeless. Both models are built on a NL-1 last with a wider forefront and lower instep. The wider forefoot allows the foot to spread out for balance, while the lower instep height helps the foot to stay connected to the ground, which improves overall feel and power. The shoes feature a waterproof upper with a FantomFit support system and the REVlite 4mm drop midsole gives golfers a lightweight ride without sacrificing cushioning and stability. The outsole is made of Ultra-flexible Ndurance rubber; each Tour shoe has six Champ Slim-Lok Zarma Tour cleats.
No golfer likes sagging pants or shorts caused by an ill-fitting belt. A too-tight belt is just as bad. But how about a belt that fits just right after you’ve cut it down to size — and doesn’t bother you with those old school holes that stretch and tear, but rather an ingenious ratchet system. Of course we’re talking about Nexbelt. Like many golf media outlets — and Tour pros Jim Furyk, Marc Leishman, Jarrod Lyle, Kevin Na, Jason Bohn and William McGirt — we give it a hearty thumbs-up. Available in over 4500 golf pro shops nationwide and in over 150 colors and styles for men and women, the Nexbelt is cut to fit up to a 45-inch waist; once you’ve dialed in your size you just use the inch-marked belt as a guide, take a pair of scissors or sharp knife and cut the high-quality leather to that perfect spot. The PreciseFit ratcheting system allows you to adjust the belt in quarter-inch increments. Golf Series belts also feature a hidden ball marker behind the face of the buckle. You can imprint custom logos on the buckles great for golf clubs (Member/Guest), companies or associations
If you’re like many golfers who, when not wearing sunglasses, place them on your head, hang on your shirt or stuff them in the golf bag only to have them scratched or broken, that concern has now been eliminated by Popticals, manufacturer of Italian-made high-performance sunglasses.
Puma Golf’s Autumn Winter 2017 collection showcases sophisticated graphics, an evolved color palate and elevated technical elements designed to enhance on-course performance and provide looks that work from the first tee to the office and everywhere in between. The line features men’s, women’s and junior apparel, accessories and footwear.
Puma’s new Titantour Ignite Disc collection of golf footwear is, according to company representatives, “the most comfortable and stable collection from the brand” to date. The footwear utilizes Puma’s Disc closure system combined with its popular Ignite foam to provide unparalleled comfort and performance throughout the entire round. The tightening system is designed to provide golfers with an optimum fit, utilizing a micro-adjusting reel technology that quickly, and easily secures golfers’ feet for a locked-in, uniform, custom fit. Puma Disc employs an innovative hexagonal design for better grip and stability during the swing. In addition, the fixed center design ensures a sleek, fashionable look that will leave your playing partners envious on the course and turn heads at the 19th hole. Engineered with Puma’s proprietary IGNITE foam, the Titantour Ignite Disc family is designed to deliver responsive cushioning, optimal rebound, and superior step-in comfort through every shot. A liquid Polyurethane blend is poured into a mold in the shape of the midsole for a high support factor and high compression set that results in both superior cushioning and minimal deformation over time. A premium dual density PU sockliner provides additional comfort and a customized fit, along with an outsole that encases the midsole for lightweight strength and durability, increased flexibility and superior traction. The outsole also boasts Duoflex, anatomically positioned flex grooves that allows the foot to move naturally while still providing support with a low-profile cleat made with K5 for long lasting abrasion resistance.
Into the staid world of golfing tradition comes a new line of golf shoes by innovative British shoemaker Royal Albartross. With their new Supernova collection, the company hopes to drive a wedge into conventional thinking to cross over into what they call the “athleisure luxe” market.
A lot of golfers either deal with or play around bum shoulders, hips and backs, and sometimes “deal with” means popping a handful of ibuprofen before every round, and perhaps some halfhrearted warmup stretching. The top sports physical therapists, coaches and athletes behind The Crossover Symmetry system of resistance bands are out to change that. They offer a simple, efficient, five-minute-a-day path to shoulder stability, concentrating on building balance between the rotator cuff at the front of the shoulder with the scapular stabilizers on the back. Their series of online golf-specific video exercises are either preventive or rehabilitative or both, and the detailed booklet that comes with every individual package of bands and attachment systems (you can attach them via door bands, to an existing squat rack or wall mounts, or even a chain-link fence) offers series of multi-phases workouts centered on activation, strength, mobility and recovery. The key is selecting the proper band for your age, size and fitness level; most male adults go with 10- to 15-pound bands, with 3- and 7-pound models for kids and women and 25- and 40-pounders for elite athletes. All bands are covered with stretchy “safety sleeves” that protect against sudden breakage, and the plastic handles are sturdy yet workable.
SKIN Sunscreen makes products specifically for golfers; the new, Broad Spectrum SPF50 Continuous Spray sunscreen replaces the company’s SPF30 spray. It’s a light weight, non-greasy, oil free formula that sprays on from any angle, helping you protect your entire body from harmful UVA/UVB rays. This highly effective, Broad Spectrum formula features a no-run application that doesn’t require rubbing in. It provides water resistance up to 80 minutes and applies and dries clear while allowing the skin to breathe. SKIN Sunscreen also offers a premium preventative SPF30+ lotion formulation that is oxybenzone-free, non-greasy, sweat resistant and water resistant.
Want to pack some healthy energy into that golfer’s stocking? SwingOil is the first drink supplement of its kind, specially formulated by golfers for golfers to promote flexibility and focus for pros and amateurs alike. As part of a well-rounded golf routine, swingOIL is a golfer’s ideal companion. Drink it before tee-time to stay loose; during your rounds, to avoid playing tight when it matters most; and after the final putt, to help your body prepare for tomorrow’s game. “I’m normally pretty stiff when I’m playing golf,” says PGA Tour Champions player Kenny Perry said recently. These guys aren’t paying me…but I’m telling you what, it worked for me this week. I felt amazing out there.” Added Bart Bryant, “I feel like I have WD-40 flowing through my body when I take swingOIL. All lubed and loose and ready to play.” There are three flavors — strawberry-banana, lemon-lime and orange.
Tired of that leaky flask you stick in your bag, only to find that the precious single malt inside is half gone or too hot to drink? FlasKap is the first flask built into a tumbler-style lid. It fits securely onto most standard stainless steel “YETI style” tumblers and is aimed at campers, fishermen, tailgaters, outdoor enthusiasts … and, yes, golfers. The FlasKap holds up to five ounces and while intended for liquor — we’re thinking Moscow Mules or Mojitos on the go — it can also hold other drink additions in the transfer chamber. The dispense button releases half a shot (0.5 oz.) of the liquor or flavoring to the beverage in the tumbler below. Founders Cailley and Drew Tonn are outdoor enthusiasts and have been product testing the FlasKap for over a year. Drew Tonn shares, “my main goal was to have a reservoir with a metered dispensing function. When I achieved that I incorporated other improvements such as a sipping hole large enough for a straw and superior thermal- insulating properties. The built-in flask allows you to make your drink as strong or light as you want. Plus, as your ice melts you can add more to your drink so it doesn’t get watered down.” The FlasKap is clear, splash-resistant, dishwasher safe, insulating and BPA-free. The food grade stainless steel rod and double piston transfer alcohol. The FlasKap dispense button screws onto the end of the stainless steel rod is made of a tough and reliable plastic.
Looking for a fun way to introduce kids to the game of golf this holiday season? Then follow us off the beaten golf path and into the burgeoning world of FlingGolf, a dynamic new sport where players fling a golf ball on a golf course with a lacrosse-type FlingStick. It’s fast, fun and new players of all ages can tee it up and fling it right along with family and friends. Introducing juniors and millennials to FlingGolf is an easy and low-cost approach to learning the fundamentals of the game. FlingGolf uses one stick with a “club head” or basket designed with a channel to hold the golf ball. There are three basic swing techniques: Sidearm/Baseball, Overhand/Lacrosse and Flop shot. On the green, putting becomes a pushing stroke with the ball nestled into the notch on the side of the FlingStick head and one hand down the shaft. Top the club off with a grip displaying your alma mater or favorite team’s logo.
GelTees, the 100 percent biodegradable golf tee, is on a mission to create a “greener way to golf.” Gel Tees are made of gelatin byproducts and completely biodegrade within five days depending on the environmental conditions. The new packaging contains 20 tees, enough for one complete round of golf. GelTees shatter into pieces and are designed for one time use. With more than 2.8 billion wooden tees made annually in the USA alone, GelTees is on a mission to lower the environmental impact of the game. While products made from bamboo, untreated wood, cornstarch and sawdust can claim biodegradability adhering to these standards, they are not truly 100 percent biodegradable like GelTees.
Building on the success of one of the Gladiator brand’s most popular products, the new, easy-to-install Golf GearTrack Pack is a cool garage storage system that helps any golf enthusiast ace their next tee time, featuring a sturdy upper shelf that can store two golf bags; there’s also space on the bottom for storing your favorite golf shoes. There are also systems for many other recreational pursuits.
Golf fans and sports fans in general will love these unique, high-quality golf course, stadium and arena blueprints — a sophisticated, old-school addition to any den, office, or man cave. The line includes more than 80 venues including the Old Course at St. Andrews, Pebble Beach and Bandon Dunes, plus famed arenas for pro baseball, football, hockey, basketball, college football and international soccer. There’s something for everyone. Unframed prints are offered in museum-quality paper stock or canvas (produced in Chicago. Sizes include 12″ x 16″, 18″ x 24″. Hand-drawn artwork of the stadium includes a plan view, signature elevation view, and architectural details unique to the park.
“Live large. Hydrate often.” So say the folks at HydraPak, whose Stow water bottles are ideal Ideal for camping, hiking, backpacking and — why not? — golf. After all, not keeping up with one’s water consumption during a round can seriously affect concentration and lead to muscle fatigue, lightheadness … you know the drill. Available in 500 ML and one-liter capacities, The Stow’s spill-proof nozzle allows for easy drinking with a bail handle for comfortable carrying and attachment. With durable construction and minimal design for easy packing, the flexible Stow helps make all your adventures the best they can be.
Linda Hartough, who has painted stirring landscapes of famed golf holes for years, captures perhaps the world’s most famous par 3, the 12th Hole of the Augusta National Golf Club, in Limited Edition and Artist Proof canvas giclees. “Golden Bell” has determined the outcome of many Masters Tournaments. The swirling winds, Rae’s Creek and the green angle makes club selection paramount. The green, guarded with a deep bunker in the front and two bunkers in the rear, is only nine yards deep in the center. En route to the green the player crosses Ben Hogan bridge. In March, the yellow flowered Golden Bell, Forsythia intermedia, blooms behind the green.
The new Titleist Players Collection line of stand bags, now available in golf shops worldwide, has been thoughtfully designed with special focus on the performance requirements of the dedicated golfer. Featuring new lightweight designs with advanced stand and strap systems, the Players Collection combines proprietary engineering with premium materials to deliver the Titleist brand promise of innovation, performance and quality excellence.
No company on earth has helped more golfers improve than GOLFTEC. They teach approximately one million lessons annually around the world, with the average student dropping seven strokes from their game. The company has locations in every major metropolitan area in the United States and nearly 200 around the world. For 2017 they offer a variety of specials on lessons packs. GOLFTEC provides comprehensive instruction on all aspects of the game, as well as finely-tuned club fitting services. Proven to benefit players of all skill levels, GOLFTEC works with each student to create a comprehensive game plan tailored to their specific needs. The company pioneered a step-by-step plan that builds skills faster and provides lasting results. It is a convenient and effective one-stop-shop for every game-improvement need.
Keswick Hall & Golf Club – the Forbes Five-Star, 600-acre luxury resort set in Virginia’s scenic Hunt Country – is offering its “Full Cry Golf Package” as an ideal platform for stay-and-plays at the world-class property. The outstanding
Bag Boy, part of the Dynamic Brands family of products, is showcasing a unique and functional cool bag-to-cart attachment system that they’ve dubbed TOP-LOK Technology, on new 2017 models of certain carts and bags. The system is designed to securely lock a Bag Boy bag onto one of the company’s push carts, creating a seamless “ecosystem” that helps streamline the walking golfer’s experience and enhance enjoyment of the game.
After years dominating the GPS rangefinder market, Sky Golf breaks into the game improvement in a big and bold way. The SkyGolf SkyTrak offers a complete practice, play and entertainment system for golf at home. It delivers commercial quality ball flight simulations that reflect a golfer’s actual performance for game improvement and entertainment at a price far below alternatives. Golfers can also experience and test their skills on some of the world’s most famous 18-hole courses with their own clubs at their own pace through integrations with golf simulators including WGT Golf, Jack Nicklaus Perfect Golf, The Golf Club Game and TruGolf.
TOUR EDGE EXOTICS XJ1 DRIVER AND FAIRWAY METALS
WILSON STAFF FG TOUR V6 IRONS
DIRECTED FORCE PUTTER
TGA KIDS’ GOLF CLUBS
SST PURE
ARCCOS 360
SHOT NAVI
T-LINK
BIION LUX SERIES
CARNOUSTIE
ANTIGUA
GALVIN GREEN RAINSUITS
NEXBELT
OUUL
POWERPLANE
