More Golf Equipment

Key Feature: Like the driver, the Speedline F11 woods are shaped for maximum aerodynamics, only this time, in the smaller shape of a wood that also can cut through the grass. The Vertical Slot tech is designed to add more spring-like power to every shot.
What We Like: Great looks and a ballflight that pops the ball upward in a hurry.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want a long-hitting fairway wood, especially the titanium model.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (13°, 15°, 18°) with Aldila VooDoo VS or Matrix X-Con graphite shafts. Ti, Draw model, and L-hand available.
adamsgolf.com | $199/$299 ti

Key Feature: The unique shape uses a forged, maraging-steel face insert for added distance and a lower CG for a higher trajectory.
What We Like: The classic-meets-new geometry. Classic lines and curves mask a neo-triangular shape. Players can’t help but notice how sharp they look. The high-launch characteristics are ideal for players who want more carry and distance from their woods.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want a sweet-looking fairway wood with an added boost in trajectory.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (13°, 15°, 17°, 19°) with Graphite Design JS shafts.
bobbyjonesgolf.com | $199

Key Feature: Made of stainless steel for rugged durability, these clubs utilize VFT technology to launch the ball off the face with added distance and forgiveness.
What We Like: Big power and a big sole make it easy to hit this club both off a tee and off the ground. The shaping is pure Callaway.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want big distance from on or off the fairway. Better players will dig the more neutral Tour version.
Specs: Comes in five lofts (15°, 17°, 19°, 21°, 24°) with Diablo Octane graphite shafts. L-hand available in 15° and 17°.
callawaygolf.com | $199

Key Feature: A forged composite crown that reduces weight and moves it down toward the sole of the club. The result? More distance and a better ballflight from a great-looking club.
What We Like: The Tour-inspired shaping will appeal to the player who likes to work the ball. But the forgiveness? Seriously, that will help everyone hit better, longer, straighter shots.
Who It’s For: For all golfers, although we suspect better players will like it even more.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (13°, 15°, 18°, 21°) with RAZR Hawk graphite shafts (all flexes). L-hand available in 15° or 18°.
callawaygolf.com | $229

Key Feature: Weight was removed from the shaft and grip (30g’s worth), making the Launcher FL produce faster swing speeds, ball speeds and longer carry off the tee or ground.
What We Like: The ball jumps off the face upward in a hurry. Oh, and it never stops going. Really, it’s among the longest fairway woods we’ve every tried.
Who It’s For: Golfers who need big-time forgiveness and distance with their woods.
Specs: Comes in five lofts (13°, 15°, 17°, 19°, 22°) with Miyazaki C. Kua graphite shafts (all flexes). L-hand available in 15° and 19°.
clevelandgolf.com | $199

Key Feature: A larger, hotter face that makes this all-steel design produce big distance and exceptional accuracy, even if you occasionally miss the sweet spot (which is huge, by the way.)
What We Like: The oversized profile adds confidence, making it easier to swing aggressively. Also, the stock Fujikura Blur shaft is a good one. They combine to produce a lot of distance. It’s a great alternative to the driver on tight holes.
Who It’s For: All golfer types.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (13°, 15°, 17°) with Fujikura Blur graphite shafts. L-hand available in 15° and 18°.
cobragolf.com | $169

Key Feature: The Dynacraft Prophet ICT series takes our revolutionary, patent-pending interchangeable hosel adapter to the fairway woods. Now with the interchangeable Prophet ICT 8-position adapter, each hosel insertion provides differing lie angles ranging from 2° upright to 2° flat, and face angles from 2° open to 2° closed.
What We Like: The adjustability is very cool, but it’s also long and straight from the fairway and off the tee. Also, what a great price!
Who It’s For: All player types.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (15°, 18°, 21°) with a variety of shaft options to choose from.
hirekogolf.com | $54

Key Feature: A classic, Tour-inspired shaping that will appeal to shotmakers who want fairway woods that launch the ball up quickly after impact with the ball.
What We Like: These woods are made with a low CG, but they’re also workable, thanks to the classic, low-profile styling.
Who It’s For: The lofts on the SF-410 woods are carefully calibrated for the average player who wants a higher ballflight. They’re also very forgiving, thanks to a high MOI rating.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (16°, 19°, 22°, 24°) with MD-335ff graphite shafts.
fourteengolf.com | $329

Key Feature: A Hot Metal, maraging-steel face design for distance and Ultimate Dynamic Stability (U.D.S.) tech for improved forgiveness.
What We Like: Like the JPX-800 driver, these woods have a clean, no-nonsense stainless-steel appeal. The beveled leading edge slips across the grass with ease, and the low CG creates a high trajectory. The ball flies straight and far, even if you miss the sweet spot sometimes. (Hey, who doesn’t?)
Who It’s For: All player types.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (15°, 18°, 21°) with Mizuno FS5 graphite shafts.
mizunogolf.com | $199

Key Feature: Its streamlined square shape adds more aerodynamics and pushes weight toward the corners for ample forgiveness and a high MOI. It’s also easy to align behind the golf ball.
What We Like: It may be a holdover from last year, but there’s good reason for it. This club is easy to hit high and far. The square shape is a plus when it comes to alignment. It’s almost as though it’s easy to aim with it behind the ball.
Who It’s For: Mid- to higher-handicappers.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (15°, 17°, 19°, 21°) with a UST Mamiya Proforce AXIVCore graphite shaft. L-hand available in 15° and 19°.
nikegolf.com | $239

Key Feature: Like the driver with the same name, the VR Pro fairway woods utilize a variable-compression channel that runs along the sole behind the face. This adds more distance across more points on the clubface.
What We Like: This club was designed for the better player, with a flat profile and low leading edges, both of which make this not only a solid fairway wood, but a shotmaker’s tool, as well.
Who It’s For: Better players.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (13°, 15°, 17°, 19°) with Project X graphite shafts in a variety of flexes. L-hand available in 15° and 19°.
nikegolf.com | $229

Key Feature: A weighting scheme that actually has a fade bias. This is so better players can more easily manipulate their shots.
What We Like: It’s both forgiving and really responsive to our shot-calling. We aren’t pros, but hitting high, low, fade or draw shots was easy to do with this shotmaker.
Who It’s For: Better players who not only want to shape their shots, but also want forgiveness in a sleek, all-stainless-steel design.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (14°, 15.5°, 18.5°) with PING TFC 700F or UST Mamiya AXIVCore shafts (all flexes). L-hand available in all lofts.
ping.com | $229

Key Feature: Straight Flight Technology (mass toward the heel) helps golfers better square the clubhead at impact for both straighter and longer shots from the tee or fairway.
What We Like: The oversized construction helps push the CG way back and deep into the clubhead, which for us, launched the ball up and out of harm’s way in a hurry. The ball also lands really softly, which is what you want from a mega-forgiving fairway wood.
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (16°, 19°, 22°) with PING TFC 149F graphite shafts. L-hand available.
ping.com | $199

Key Feature: Like the driver, these woods have pressurized nitrogen (up to 150 psi) in the clubhead for added strength without the need for extra weight.
What We Like: The nitrogen must be working. These fairway woods, although not new this year, are still a favorite of ours, because they’re so easy to hit. The ball launches up and far–two things we want from a fairway wood.
Who It’s For: Golfers who want some woods that have a lot of pop and firepower.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (15°, 19°, 21°) with Powerized graphite shafts (various flexes).
powerbilt.com | $199

Key Feature: The hosel is adjustable for up to 12 different clubface angle/lie configurations for a true, custom fit on the fly.
What We Like: Stellar looks and classic shaping. The Starburst face technology really makes these fairway woods pop with a lot of distance, even off the sweet spot. It’s also made of titanium, meaning it has driver-like feel.
Who It’s For: Better players who want to manipulate the configuration of this sexy, new fairway wood.
Specs: Comes in two lofts (15° and 18°) with Miyazaki Dromos graphite shafts (various flexes).
srixon.com | $249

Key Feature: The new Burner SuperFast 2.0 is a driver in fairway-wood disguise. Its lighter, longer shaft and streamlined aerodynamics increase a golfer’s swing speed for more distance.
What We Like: The white color is beautiful, but the real stuff is in how well this fairway wood performs. It’s insanely long, just like its daddy (the Burner SuperFast 2.0 driver).
Who It’s For: All player types. Better players might prefer the more streamlined TP version.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (15°, 17°, 18°, 21°) with Matrix X-Con graphite shafts (various flexes). L-hand available in 15° and 17°.
taylormadegolf.com | $200

Key Feature: Two ways to adjust: the hosel (Flight Control Technology) for loft adjustments, and the Adjustable Sole Plate for clubface angle tweaks. The result? A fairway wood that can be tailor-made to fit anyone (we had to say it).
What We Like: The Adjustable Sole Plate design is extraordinary, and in our opinion, even more practical with woods than with the driver. As for performance, it worked just as we expected–long and straight with a lot of forgiveness.
Who It’s For: There’s a combination for all.
Specs: Comes in five lofts (14°, 15.5°, 17°, 19°, 22°) with Fujikura Blur shafts. L-hand avail.
taylormadegolf.com | $230

Key Feature: SureFit Tour technology that yields dual-angle hosel technology for a custom, precise loft and lie angle fitting.
What We Like: When it comes to fairway woods, we tend to favor more traditional shapes. And well, this one oozes tradition. It’s also a solid performer in terms of distance.
Who It’s For: Low- to middle handicappers. There’s also a 910Fd model with a deep face design that will appeal to golfers who want a more penetrating ballflight.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (13.5°, 15°, 17°, 19°) with MRC Diamana __ðahina or Project X graphite.
titleist.com | $279

Key Feature: A beta-titanium, boomerang face design that, according to Tour Edge, helps create the company’s most powerful wood ever.
What We Like: The crown and sole are titanium, combo-brazed with a heavier tungsten sole that accounts for up to 65 percent of the head’s overall mass. The result is an uber-forgiving and insanely long fairway wood.
Who It’s For: Golfers who truly want to bomb their shots high and far from the fairway.
Specs: Comes in five lofts (13°, 15°, 16.5°, 18°, 21°) with Fujikura Motore graphite shafts (various flexes). L-hand available in 15° and 18°.
touredge.com | $299

Key Feature: Designed for added workability, the CB4 has a more compact, pear-shaped hyper steel body and a titanium cupface.
What We Like: The CB4 has a higher, deeper CG for more penetrating shots, which also creates less backspin for more shotmaking maneuverability. We especially like the Aldila RIP shaft, as it seems to be a perfect fit. And in case you’re wondering, this is still an Exotics wood, meaning it’s going to be long and forgiving.
Who It’s For: Better players who shape shots.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (13°, 15°, 16.5°, 18°) with Aldila RIP graphite shafts.
touredge.com | $299

Key Feature: Designed with direct input from Padraig Harrington, these new fairway woods have a low CG for a higher launch. The radiused (curved) sole helps golfers hit shots from uneven lies, and the variable-thickness clubface makes the sweet spot a lot bigger.
What We Like: The DXi is an easy-to-hit alternative to the driver, and because one of the most likable guys in golf actually uses it (Harrington), how could you not like it?
Who It’s For: All player types.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (13°, 15°, 18°) with Aldila VooDoo VS7 graphite shafts.

2011 Buyer’s Guide Putters

Knock it stiff, then knock it in. Sounds easy, but it’s not. Find the flatstick that will make it easier for you. The fastest way to lower your handicap is to shave strokes on the green. Everybody knows that, so why do so few people put in the time on the practice green? For one thing, it’s a lot more fun to bust drives that stand over three-footers all day long. For another thing, it’s just so much work. We understand, but if you want to get better, you’ve got to start knocking in some of those little white pebbles. To make it fun, you have to roll the right putter, and we guarantee you’ll find at least one in the following pages. Keep in mind style (blade, mallet), hosel shape, materials and, of course, price. There are many premium offerings and a few steals, too.

Golf Tips Legend Our picks for new technologies, hot trends and equipment standouts. s = steel g = graphite

Adams a7 Select Key Feature: A stainless-steel head with a milled face and a clear, yellow, urethane face insert for improved feel and perimeter weighting. What We Like: They have a resounding feel. And dare we say, we like the splash of yellow color, both in the putterface and the grip. We like the mallet model, in particular. Who It’s For: Fans of Adams equipment who also like the benefits of having a soft insert for a more muted feel. Specs: There are four models: two Anser-style, one blade and one mallet. adamsgolf.com | $69	Bettinardi Studio Stock Key Feature: The company’s patented "Honeycomb" face pattern, which is produced from milled carbon steel. What We Like: How classy the line looks. The Borealis Black finish is top-notch. Who It’s For: Golfers who don’t mind paying a premium for a quality flatstick. It’s hard to beat Bob Bettinardi’s craftsmanship; that’s why you’ll pay a premium for it. Specs: Precision milled from soft carbon steel. Four models available. SS8 is the only left- handed model. bettinardigolf.com | $375	Boccieri Golf Mid-Weight Key Feature: The Mid-Weight series isn’t as heavy as the earlier generations of Heavy Putters. Instead it weighs roughly 750 grams—still a lot, but lighter than earlier iterations. What We Like: Its balance point is 75% higher than conventional putters, which helps eliminate overactive wrists during the stroke. Why? There’s a 200g weight inserted into the grip’s butt end. Who It’s For: Pendulum putters who want to quiet their overactive wrists. Specs: Four models available (two mallets, two blades), between 32 and 36 inches. H1-M shown. Comes in a Black PVD or Bronze finish. boccierigolf.com | $120

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Clearview   Key Feature: Its transparent design isn’t a gimmick, it functions as an alignment aid to get your ball rolling on the right track. What We Like: That should be pretty, er, clear. It was easy to line up correctly, and the stats say that 90% of us struggle with alignment. Who It’s For: Golfers who struggle to consistently line up their putts correctly. People who aren’t afraid to try something a little unorthodox on the greens. Specs: Offset and center-shafted models. Right- and left-handed, and a variety of lie and length options, including broomstick and belly. clearviewputter.com | $170	Cleveland Classic Collection Key Feature: Made from 17-4 stainless steel and comes in three different finishes—black platinum, platinum and BRZ (shown). The copper-infused face insert of the BRZ makes for a soft, responsive feel. What We Like: There are many high-performing models available that are incredibly affordable. What’s not to like? Who It’s For: Budget golfers looking for putters with classic good looks and solid craftsmanship. Specs: Fourteen different models, including blade and mallet, with varying hosel shapes. clevelandgolf.com | $79	Cleveland T-Frame Key Feature: More than 70 grams of weight was redistributed to the rear of this high-MOI model, which increases forgiveness on off-center hits. What We Like: It incorporates a dominant "T" feature as you look down on it, which facilitates proper alignment. It’s also a cinch to swing back and through, not to mention its butter-soft feel. Who It’s For: Players seeking a steel mallet who need help lining up putts. Specs: Offered with three lie-angle options (68__, 70__ and 72__) in a glare-reducing satin finish. clevelandgolf.com | $119

Edel Basic Columbia Key Feature: Precisely milled from a block of 303 stainless steel, it’s machined to different thicknesses to accommodate different head weights determined by the fitting process. What We Like: You may not have heard of this manufacturer yet, but Edel’s putters are of the highest quality. Who It’s For: If you go through Edel’s intricate three-step fitting process, the company can customize this putter exactly to your stroke and tendencies. Specs: Part of the six-head Basic Series, each with all sorts of custom options. edelgolf.com | $375	Louisville Stimp Max-O Key Feature: Beautifully handcrafted out of real walnut wood! The Stimp MAX-O is actually more than just a showpiece; it’s a darn good putter, weighing 400 grams for a solid, pure feel. What We Like: It’s gorgeous, but it’s also really consistent. We like the sound and feel, and were surprised at how easy it is to control distances. In the age of modern materials sometimes you just have to play it old school. Who It’s For: Golfers who appreciate natural materials and who want a work of art in their golf bag. Specs: Also available in a center-shafted version. louisvillegolf.com | $149	Never Compromise Gambler Key Feature: Made from a soft block of 303 stainless steel, these weighty putters are soft and solid. What We Like: Its Vegas-themed artwork that adorns its sole and hosel. Makes us want to put some money on our next four-footer. The Winn grip always feels good on a putter. Who It’s For: Golfers who are a little bit classy and a little bit flashy. Specs: Four flatsticks (two blades, two mallets). Standard length on all is 34.35 inches, with custom options available. Left-hand available only in the Royal model. nevercompromise.com | $299

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Nike Method Key Feature: Combines steel, polymer and low-durometer polymetal groove technology on the milled-steel face. What We Like: Several Tour pros put this in play and instantly catapulted to victory or came real close. That must mean it’s pretty darn good, and Tom Stites knows exactly what he’s doing. Winner of two major championships. Who It’s For: Those who don’t mind looking at an unusual face pattern, especially when it’s backed up by so much success on Tour. Specs: Offered in four blades and one mallet model. 33-35-inch lengths. nikegolf.com | $249	Nike Method Core Key Feature: Its grooved face and polymer-aluminum insert, which Nike claims grabs the ball and gets it rolling faster. What We Like: Its handsome black nickel finish and red insert makes it stand out from the crowd. Also how can we argue with a more affordable version of last year’s Method? Who It’s For: Golfers who want to play with a putter made popular on Tour, but don’t want to pay the "professional" price. Specs: Available in three blades and two mallets, and varying hosel shapes. 33-35 inches. Left-handed in MC-3i and MC-5i only. nikegolf.com | $130	Odyssey D.A.R.T. Key Feature: Three converging white lines that meet at the center of the clubface and look like a dart. It’s purpose? You fill in the rest of the imaginary line toward the hole. What We Like: Soft feel at impact from the White Ice insert, optically engineered for performance. How can you not align it correctly? Who It’s For: Golfers who like putters with visually striking alignment aids. There’s a lot to digest with the D.A.R.T. line, but once you adjust to the sight lines, they roll nice and true. Specs: Three designs available—blade, mallet and backstryke mallet. odysseygolf.com | $179

Odyssey Black Series Key Feature: Its three-material construction: 1025 carbon-steel body with a weighty sliver of tungsten positioned in the flange and a urethane dampening layer in between. What We Like: The entire line is handsomely constructed from 1025 carbon steel and features a deep black PVD finish. Who It’s For: Golfers looking for a weighty, premium milled putter. Specs: Eight models available, including two mallets. The headweight drops 10 grams on the 35-inch models. (#8 shown). odysseygolf.com | $270	Ping Scottsdale Key Feature: Its dark finish stands in contrast to its white and maroon alignment aids, making the mallets easy to align. On the blades, the maroon is limited to a few lines on the white face insert. What We Like: Lots of model options and easy alignment aids. Plus, on the blades, the finish stood out as being very classy. Who It’s For: Something for everyone here, so if you’re a PING fan, you’ll find one of your favorite models, in a darker finish. Specs: 14 models to choose from including the new, futuristic Wolverine model (shown). ping.com | $140-$180	Ping Karsten 1959 Key Feature: Made from 17-4 stainless steel, these upgraded classics are PING’s most affordable putters. What We Like: Its soft elastomer cavity insert helps produce a solid response and sound. Features a clean look that inspires confidence. We didn’t mind the price, either. Who It’s For: Golfers who are fans of PING’s classic putter line but with modern upgrades. Specs: Six different models available, including PING classics like the Zing, My Day and B60, plus the wackier Craz-E mallet. ping.com | $100

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Piretti Golf Cottonwood II Key Feature: Milled from a solid billet of 11L17 carbon steel, the custom Cottonwood II blade weighs a healthy 365 grams. What We Like: Very well balanced, as if all the company’s putters could swing themselves. Handsome, solid and classy-looking, too. Its two finish options: Midnight Black or 303 Stainless, both of which produce a nonglare finish. Who It’s For: Golfers looking for a premium-priced milled putter from a boutique outfit. Specs: Available in a variety of lengths, and in both right- and left-handed models. Four grip options available, too. Dot or line sight option. pirettigolf.com | $265	Plop RSVP 2 CSH 1 Key Feature: The CSH stands for "Center Shafted Hosel." Unlike other putters, the Plop features a separately milled hosel and body, rather than one milled piece. Why "RSVP?" It’s a response to PING’s famous Anser model. What We Like: The "floating" hosel. It fits the back of the putterhead right where you make contact. That produces solid-feeling putts. Who It’s For: Folks who like Anser-style putter heads and the floating-hosel concept. Specs: Comes in 325-, 345- and 375-gram weights, and lengths from 30 to 37 inches. Custom options including LH versions available. plopgolf.com | $250	Seemore Si4 Key Feature: RST2 technology, and no, that’s not a Star Wars reference. The Si4 features RifleScope Technology (RST) in the hosel for the first time. Two white lines are milled parallel to the putterface to give users a "gunsight effect" so they know when they’re properly aligned. What We Like: SeeMore brings their innovative alignment technology to an "Anser-style" blade with a soft TPU face insert. Who It’s For: Golfers who don’t want to guess whether they’re lined up properly. Specs: RH and LH. The Si series also comes in three other models, the Si1, Si2 and Si3. seemore.com | $180

STX Sync Series Collection Key Feature: Each of the five models has F.E.E.L., a Friction Enhancing Elastomer Layer that produces a supersoft feel. What We Like: The option to customize three different "feels." Comes with three different face inserts, Black (softest), Red (medium) and Green (firmest) so you can alter its feel. Who It’s For: Golfers who play on a variety of different greens and want to be able to tweak how hard or soft the ball comes off the face. Specs: Five putters available in the collection. Three blades and two mallets. 34- and 35-inch models, 335-355 grams. stxgolf.com | $109	Superstroke DCF Key Feature: All the putters’ bodies, face inserts, necks and back weights are made with premium 303 stainless steel. What We Like: The Diamond Cut Face (DCF) Technology. The face grooves are precision-cut with diamond-coated machining tools and combined with an exotic diamond finish to help increase friction between the insert and the ball. Who It’s For: Golfers who want to roll a premium flatstick made from the highest-quality materials. (Consider that puttermaker Bruce Sizemore sells some models for $15,000.) Specs: Five original designs available. superstrokegrip.com | $350	Taylormade Rossa Corza Ghost Key Feature: An all-white h 2011 Buyer’s Guide Balls This year, golf balls fall within a wide price range, from the highly affordable Top-Flite D2+ series ($16/dozen) to the premium Dixon Fire balls ($75/dozen). Or $1.33 per ball versus $6.25 per ball. Of course, the price of a ball often corresponds to its quality and performance, although these days, many so-called “midrange” balls perform so well, you might confuse them for premium offerings. (And if you’re a mid-handicapper, they might be just what you need.) To find the ball that’s right for you, buy a few sleeves and give them a spin. Only then will you know which one is right for your game. Bridgestone e Series Key Feature: Three models each have a new dual-dimple design–each dimple has a depression inside of it–helping add more zip to launch and landing. What We Like: Now offered in yellow and orange (plus white), these fly nice and high–and feel great. Who It’s For: Distance seekers. The e5 has great greenside spin, the e6 produces accurate shots, and the e7 is the big-distance offering. Specs: e5 is a two-piece with a urethane cover; e6 and e7 are multilayers with surlyn covers. All have dual-dimple design. bridgestonegolf.com | $38/dozen Bridgestone B330-S Key Feature: New RD10 resin material in its dual-mantle construction will fuel 105+ mph swing speeds with more distance and better wind piercing. What We Like: It’s as soft and lively as any ball on the market. The four-piece construction that makes it one of the game’s most sophisticated ball constructions. Who It’s For: Better players who swing greater than 105 mph and crave Tour-quality spin on their approach shots. Specs: Four-piece ball with urethane cover and 330 seamless dimple design. bridgestonegolf.com | $56/dozen Callaway HX Diablo Key Feature: Its proprietary, resilient core and ultralow compression complement the thin ionomer cover that helps keep driver spin low to maximize accurate distance. What We Like: It’s long and soft–and everyone likes that combination. Its HEX Aerodynamic design, which reduces drag. It felt like balls just flew forever. Who It’s For: Golfers who want to hit it longer, but don’t want to buy premium balls. People who don’t mind losing a little greenside spin. Specs: Two-piece ball with a thin ionomer cover and HEX Aerodynamics. callawaygolf.com | $20/dozen Callaway HX Diablo Tour Key Feature: Its core is firmer at the outer edges and softer in the center, helping tee shots fly longer with less spin, and approach shots have more spin for better stopping power. What We Like: It’s long and soft–and everyone likes that combination. Hard not to like a ball that performs like a premium offering but costs little. Who It’s For: Golfers seeking a Tour-style ball for under $20. What’s that? A ball that booms off the tee, but spins around the greens. Specs: Three-piece ball with Power Reaction Core, boundary layer and ionomer cover with HEX Aerodynamics. callawaygolf.com | $20/dozen Callaway i(s) Key Feature: In the company’s softest Tour ball ever, its Dual Core construction helps generate short-game spin while keeping driver spin low. What We Like: Refined HEX Aerodynamics create a strong and consistent flight. Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els put it in play. Now, more durable than ever. Who It’s For: Golfers who want a soft, premium ball that achieves more greenside control. Folks who want to spin their wedges like Phil. Specs: The four-piece ball has a thermoset urethane cover, HEX Aerodynamics and 332 “geometries.” That’s Callaway lingo for “dimples.” callawaygolf.com | $43/dozen Callaway i(z) Key Feature: Its Dual Core construction aims to deliver even faster ball speeds. Thus, it travels far with a penetrating flight. What We Like: Its soft urethane cover translates to great feel and control. Stuart Appleby, Trevor Immelman and the big-hitting Alvaro Quiros put it in play. Both the i(z) and i(s) are now more durable than ever. Who It’s For: Golfers wanting a premium ball that’s long, accurate and consistent. Specs: Four-piece ball with thermoset urethane cover and HEX Aerodynamics. Like the i(s), it has 332 “geometries.” callawaygolf.com | $43/dozen 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. All full shots feel soft and fly with a long and high trajectory. What We Like: It’s cool that they’re recyclable, but it’s the slick graphics and solid playability that we like most. Who It’s For: Eco-concerned golfers who appreciate recyclable stuff. Specs: Made of 100 percent recyclable material, and can be traded in for new ones at a discounted price. dixongolf.com | $40/dozen Dixon Fire Key Feature: A recyclable cast urethane core, “energy-intensifying mantle” and “high-intensity green core with ignite technology.” What We Like: 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, although players who swing really hard may find that they spin too much off the tee. 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/dozen Nike 20XI Key Feature: Proprietary technology includes resin, a neutralized polymer in the core that’s faster and lighter, for longer distance, straighter flight and more controlled shots. What We Like: This ball took four years to develop with DuPont. Designers have increased wedge and short-iron spin where you want more, and decrease driver spin where you don’t. Who It’s For: The 20XI-X is for golfers wanting Tour-level distance, the 20XI-S for those seeking Tour-level spin. Specs: Four-piece ball with resin core and soft cover with 360 dimples. nikegolf.com | $55/dozen Polara Ultimate Straight XS Key Feature: An asymmetrical dimple pattern that produces preferred spin that functions as a gyroscope. These golf balls are self-correcting. What We Like: Polara says that these nonconforming balls will eliminate your hook and slice by up to 75 percent, and they’re right! When we tried them we didn’t miss a fairway. Who It’s For: Just the thing for golfers who want to keep it in the short stuff more often. The XS is a three-piece ball with a softer cover, meaning it’ll stop faster on the greens. It stopped on a dime. Specs: Features an ionomer cover, 386 dimples and a polybutadiene core. polaragolf.com | $40/dozen Srixon Trispeed Tour Key Feature: This three-piece distance ball has a soft midlayer that works with a large, resilient core to produce a low-spinning, high-launch angle. (Comes in yellow, too.) What We Like: It produces plenty of distance, and, because of the spin reduction that makes the ball fly straighter, you’ll hit more fairways. Who It’s For: Mid- to low-handicappers with swing speeds under 100 mph. Golfers who like to make a bold statement on the course. Specs: Three-piece distance ball with Energetic Gradient Growth core, and soft ionomer cover, bearing 324 dimples. srixon.com | $30/dozen Srixon Z-Star Key Feature: Its proprietary urethane cover is supersoft, so you get added spin control without sacrificing distance. What We Like: 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: Players who want Tour-level performance from their golf ball. Specs: Three-piece ball with new urethane cover, bearing 324 dimples, available in pure white and Tour yellow. srixon.com | $45/dozen Srixon Z-Star XV Key Feature: The dual Energetic Gradient Growth core provides distance, while maintaining low spin to optimize driver performance. What We Like: It feels soft at impact, yet has plenty of energy. And it’s really durable. Hard to believe, but it went farther than the Z-Star. Who It’s For: Golfers wanting a premium distance ball. Folks who aren’t afraid to put a yellow ball in play. Specs: Four-piece ball with thin and soft urethane cover, bearing 324 dimples, and dual Energetic Gradient Growth core, available in pure white and Tour yellow. srixon.com | $45/dozen Taylormade Burner Key Feature: Its REACT core is high-energy and low-compression, while the Iothane 58D cover is soft, resilient, durable and shear-resistant. What We Like: It’s designed to maximize distance and feel, through a high launch and long carry. That equals one thing: big drives. We were surprised at how soft it felt for a two-piece. Who It’s For: Distance seekers who like to hit it high but don’t want to spend a fortune for a dozen new balls. Not a ton of spin, but they make up for it with a higher trajectory. Specs: Two-piece ball with Iothane 58D cover bearing 342 LDP dimple pattern, and REACT core. taylormadegolf.com | $20/dozen Taylormade Penta Key Feature: Five layers of performance! Spin, feel, control, launch and distance each gets its own layer, in that order. What We Like: A ball that does it all. They feel soft around the greens, and firmer off the tee. That also means more spin when you need it and less when you don’t. They’re among the longest Tour-level golf balls we’ve ever tried, and they spin like the devil on short shots. Who It’s For: Tour players, and well, everybody else who wants five layers. Specs: Multilayer construction with a taylormadegolf.com | $42/dozen Titleist Pro V1 Key Feature: The all-new version delivers increased spin control and a more consistent flight–thanks to a new ZG process core technology, responsive ionomeric casing layer, urethane elastomer cover and dimple design. What We Like: It’s still long, durable and soft, and still the standard by which all other premium balls are measured. Who It’s For: Any player wanting outstanding feel, distance and durability. Specs: Three-piece ball with urethane elastomer cover, bearing a spherically tiled 352-tetrahedral-dimple design. titleist.com | $58/dozen Titleist Pro V1x Key Feature: Provides longer distance and more consistent flight, along with its Drop-and-Stop greenside control. What We Like: There’s a lot of shot performance consistency, and it feels nice and soft. Who It’s For: Anyone, but best for better players who prefer low ball spin off the driver and long irons. “Pro Vs” ain’t cheap though, so keep in mind each ball costs about $5. Specs: Four-piece ball with urethane elastomer cover, casing and high-velocity dual core, as well as spherically tiled 328-tetrahedral-dimple design. That’s four fewer dimples than the last iteration. titleist.com | $58/dozen Topflite D2+ Feel Key Feature: A high-speed polybutadiene core allows for softer ball compressions and generates a balance of feel and ball speed for distance and control. What We Like: Its “Dimple in Dimple Aerodynamic” pattern was one of Time Magazine’s 2007 Inventions of the Year, as it reduces drag and improves lift. Who It’s For: Players of all swing speeds on a major budget. Golf balls don’t get much cheaper than this. topflite.com | $16/dozen   Wilson FG Tour Key Feature: A three-piece urethane-covered golf ball with Traction Control Technology that helps the ball better grip the clubface for maximum spin. What We Like: They feel soft, but not mushy. Also, the added spin is a big help, considering the new groove rules. Who It’s For: Better players. However, we suspect all golfers will find a liking for a ball that deserves a lot more credit than it gets. It’s a solid performer. Specs: Multilayer construction with a Traction Control Technology urethane cover material. wilsonstaff.com | $35/dozen Zero Friction ZF Distance Key Feature: Made for sheer distance with a soft feel, the ZF Distance is a two-piece design that’s also made of 100 percent renewable resources. What We Like: Zero Friction packs three Zero Friction tees in every sleeve. We also like how far they fly, not to mention the consumer-friendly price. They’re very durable, too. Who It’s For: Value-minded golfers looking for a golf ball that flies high and far without the rock-like feel. zerofriction.com | $19/doz.   2011 Buyer’s Guide Wedges No matter how good you get at this finicky game, on occasion, the golf course will win, and you’ll find yourself in the deep rough, off the green, in the sand or worse. On these occasions, your wedges can rise to the occasion, often helping you turn an unfortunate result into a quick stroke saver. That’s not to say wedges are just for shots outside the fairway; they’re equally critical on the fairway, as well. It’s the wedge that will help you shoot lower scores around the green and make up for any mistakes you may have made with other clubs. And the better you get with your wedges, the more your putter will appreciate it. Let’s look at some of the year’s best. Golf Tips Legend Our picks for new technologies, hot trends and equipment standouts. s = steel g = graphite Adams Tom Watson Key Feature: Improved for 2011 with generous sole widths bearing a performance grind that prevents digging into the turf. What We Like: The black nickel finish is a nice touch, especially on sunny days when it mutes all glare. Each wedge seems to produce plenty of spin, as well. These are a great choice for steep swingers, and the price is hard to beat when it comes to finding some good, solid wedges. Who It’s For: All golfers who want the benefits of a generous sole width (they dig less). Specs: Available in lofts of 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡, 60_¡ and 64_¡, with various bounces. adamsgolf.com | $69 Bobby Jones Wedge Key Feature: Its face is milled from Carpenter 440XH steel, which the company claims is harder and more durable than carbon steel or 17-4 stainless steel. In other words, it’s indestructible, and the grooves last a long, long time. What We Like: The ball-grabbing, milled, Diamond Pattern face texture is useful, and the club’s heavier weight helps you swing smoother. It has a real pendulum-like feel. Who It’s For: Fans of renowned scientist/golf instructor, Dave Pelz, who helped design it. Specs: Comes in five lofts, 48_¡, 52_¡, 56_¡, 60_¡ and 64_¡ with steel shafts. bobbyjonesgolf.net| $109 Boccieri Heavy Wedge Key Feature: All models are now marked with “TC” to indicate Tour-conforming grooves. New loft/bounce combinations include the 5411 (54_¡ loft, 11_¡ bounce) and 5808 (58_¡ loft, 8_¡ bounce). What We Like: The slightly heavier back weighting aims to help smooth your backswing-to-forwardswing transition and help square the clubface at impact. As for feel, the added weight really makes it easier to hit pitch shots from 50-80 yards away. Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers. Specs: Available in lofts of 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡, with various bounces. boccierigolf.com | $109 Callaway Jaws X CC Key Feature: The new version of last year’s popular wedge now features 21 tightly spaced Tour CC grooves that meet the Condition of Competition on Tour. What We Like: Offered in two finishes and new bounce/loft combinations, it has a versatile C-Grind sole and classic head shape, and gives you a nice Tour-level feel. Furthermore, these wedges have a clean, compact look and feel, which make hitting shots from the rough easier. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Available in lofts of 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡, with various bounces. callawaygolf.com | $119 s/$139 g Cleveland CG16 Key Feature: Laser-milled face has consistent roughness that maximizes spin. What We Like: It’s a cavity-back, so it has a deep CG and high MOI for forgiveness and stability. Plus, there’s a reason Cleveland leads the wedge market–this model’s as playable as they come. It has a size that appeals to higher-handicappers and a feel and versatility that better players will appreciate. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Available in lofts of 46_¡, 48_¡, 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡, 60_¡, 62_¡ and 64_¡, with various bounces. clevelandgolf.com | $119 Edel S3 Max Key Feature: The company’s wedge-fitting system, designed by renowned teaching pro Mike Adams, matches a player’s unique swing tendencies to an ideal wedge set. What We Like: Everything’s hand-ground to your exact specs, including bounce angle and width, sole width, camber, radius, head weight, groove specifications, loft, lie, shaft flex, shaft weight, club length, grip size, and custom aesthetics. Wow, do these look cool or what? Who It’s For: Serious golfers with a large budget who want a custom set of wedges. Specs: Whatever you can dream up. edelgolf.com | $150-$350 F2 Golf F2 SS Key Feature: It’s not hard to figure this one out. Once you hold the wedge, you’ll see the Face Forward technology and virtually shank-proof hosel. What We Like: Its unique Face Forward technology makes shanks a thing of the past. It takes a little getting used to, and the F2 performs best when the clubface stays square. It’s also a champ when hitting from the deep rough! Who It’s For: Golfers who not only want to stop hitting shanked shots, but also want to use a really forgiving wedge from the sand or the rough. Specs: Comes in five lofts (48__, 52_¡, 56_¡, 60_¡, 64__) with either a steel or graphite shaft. f2golf.com | $99-$119 Fourteen MT-28 V5 T.S. Key Feature: Has an additional groove between the sole and blade portion, which moves the CG higher for more precise shots. What We Like: Offered in two soles–the flat “H” for versatility and control, and the “M” with a ridge on the bottom center of the sole that optimizes bounce. It looks good with the face open, too. We also like the “Mirror-Face Milling,” meaning that the trapezoidal grooves do wonders for adding bite around the greens. Who It’s For: Low- to mid-handicappers who want a precision instrument around the greens. Specs: Available in 48-62_¡. fourteengolf.com | $250 Infiniti IP-3 Pro Key Feature: A precision-milled flat face produces maximum spin and check. What We Like: Three holes drilled in the toe provide feel and balance, and its special heel grind allows you to open the clubface for shots that require touch. With this club, no type of shot around the green is off the table. High or low pitches and chips are a piece of cake. Who It’s For: Better players who crave touch, feel, spin and versatility when playing from a variety of turf conditions. Specs: Comes in three lofts (51_¡, 56_¡, 60_¡) with a variety of shaft options. infinitigolf.com | $89 Miura K Grind Key Feature: The K Grind wedge is ground by hand to exact specifications. Its unique design helps in cutting through rough and wet sand, not to mention it performs exceptionally from the short stuff too. What We Like: It looks fantastic, which we’ve come to expect from every Miura club. As for the “knuckle-like” sole design, we love creativity, and it wouldn’t surprise us to see this type of sole grind catch on. Who It’s For: All types of players. Specs: Available in 56_¡ with a variety of shaft options to consider. miuragolf.com | $250 Mizuno MP T-11 Key Feature: It’s forged from a special grade of mild carbon steel, for soft and consistent shots. The QUAD-CUT Grooves really add some bite. What We Like: Generates plenty of spin, thanks to the high-spin grooves plus the milled face that heightens surface roughness. The 360_¡ sole grind shaping makes it easy to play this wedge from a square or open lie. The thin topline yields the look and feel that better players will want come time to shape shots around the greens. Who It’s For: Better players. Specs: Available in lofts of 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡, 60_¡ and 64_¡, with various bounces. mizunousa.com | $119 Nike Golf VR V-Rev Key Feature: The Dual Sole design offers easy shotmaking in multiple playing conditions. Comes in two finishes, satin or a black satin that will rust over time for even more spin production. What We Like: You’ll strike the ball more solidly with its versatile sole. Also, because the wedge is made from 8620 carbon steel, it has a softer, more buttery feel than 17-4 stainless steel. The black satin absorbed light really well. Who It’s For: Golfers who want maximum spin and increased shot control. Specs: Available in lofts of 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡, with various bounces. nikegolf.com | $131 Nike Golf VR Pro Forged Key Feature: There are 20 X3X high-frequency grooves on the clubface that make contact with the ball at impact, for better ball control. Between the grooves is a laser diagonal cross-hatch etching pattern for a better surface texture. What We Like: It’s forged, so it feels terrific. And it’s offered in satin chrome or brushed black ox raw finish that will rust. Once again, this wedge has the compact rounded shaping and versatile sole grind. Love it! Who It’s For: Better players. Specs: Available in lofts of 48_¡, 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡, with various bounces. nikegolf.com | $119 Ping iWedge Key Feature: Consider it the newer version of the Ping Eye2 wedge: A deep multilayer cavity maximizes forgiveness, and the sole and shape lend the same outstanding playability that made its predecessor famous. What We Like: Variable bounce angles and machined U-grooves enable customized control. The slight offset helps make shotmaking easier and helps control the ballflight. Take our word for it, this is an all-around awesome wedge. Okay? Who It’s For: All types of golfers. Specs: Comes in six lofts (50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡, 60_¡) in steel or graphite shafts. pinggolf.com | $125-$150 Ping Tour-S Key Feature: The machined face and grooves on the compact clubhead help optimize spin for more versatility and creativity. What We Like: A “Vertical Custom Tuning Port” angles toward the back surface, to increase the perimeter weighting for added forgiveness. And yes, forgiveness is important when it comes to wedges. It’s key for consistent distance control. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Brushed Silver Chrome version available in 47_¡, 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡, 58_¡/TS, 60_¡, 60_¡/TS and 64_¡/TS; Rustique finish available in 52_¡, 56_¡ and 60_¡. pinggolf.com | $130-$157 Scratch 8620 Key Feature: The CNC-milled 8620 wedge is available in up to six different grinds to accommodate just about every type of player. What We Like: The classic teardrop shaping, and the “all bite, no chew” groove technology that generates a ton of spin. The custom three-character stamping is a cool touch, too. We’ve always wanted our initials and alma mater colors on our wedges, just like the pros have. Who It’s For: There are grinds for sweepers, sliders and everyone in between. Specs: Comes in lofts of 53_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡ in a variety of finishes, grinds, etc. scratchgolf.com | $99 Taylormade TP xFT Key Feature: You can quickly and easily change the clubface for a fresh set of grooves without having to reacclimate yourself to a new scoring club. What We Like: The thin urethane layer behind the face yields an amazingly soft feel, even on full shots. Also, the shaping of this wedge is Tour-friendly, meaning better players can play a variety of shots just by opening the clubface. Who It’s For: Shotmakers. Specs: Available in lofts of 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡, 60_¡ and 64_¡ with Dynamic Gold steel shafts. Additional face inserts available, as well. taylormadegolf.com | $129 Titleist Vokey Tour Van Key Feature: This is part of the company’s WedgeWorks Exclusives line, which allows you to create the exact wedge you want, just like Tour pros. It’s finished in your choice of Bright Brushed Chrome and Oil Can Zero, both in Bob Vokey’s awesome shapes and grinds. What We Like: Customize to your heart’s content, including the use of logo, graphics and one of 20 paint-fill colors. Who It’s For: All golfers who want the benefit of a well-made, customized wedge. Specs: Available in lofts of 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡, with various bounces. titleist.com | $150-$200 Tour Edge TGS Key Feature: The Triple Grind Sole eliminates bounce from the heel and toe, to improve workability in various playing conditions such as sand, rough, hardpan and, of course, fairway. What We Like: It’s great-looking and feels really soft thanks to the TPE insert behind the sweet spot. We found that this wedge imparts lots of backspin, too. But that’s not our favorite part. This wedge is a screaming good bargain at less than $40. Wow! Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Available in lofts of 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡ in black carbon or stainless steel. titleist.com | $39-$59 Tour Edge Exotics Xtreme Spin Key Feature: A milled 1.5mm-thin forged face is backed by a core that’s filled with a thermal plastic elastomer What We Like: A removable weight screw in the back allows you to adjust the swing weight to your preferred feel, weight and performance. Not to mention it’s easier and more consistent to use than lead tape. We also liked the way this wedge feels on full swings. Soft and buttery, to say the least. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Available in lofts of 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡ in two finishes with steel shafts. touredge.com | $129 Wilson Staff FG Tour Key Feature: Made with Tour pro input, this wedge has CNC-milled grooves plus an additional milled pattern etched into the face, for more ball control. Underneath, the sole grind lowers the leading edge closer to the ground, making it easier to hit crisp, clean shots with the face opened. What We Like: Nice design and shaping gives you confidence standing over the ball. Who It’s For: All golfers who want to score from anywhere. Specs: Available in lofts of 50_¡, 52_¡, 54_¡, 56_¡, 58_¡ and 60_¡ with DG steel shafts. wilsongolf.com | $99 Wedge Mechanics Choosing the right wedge for your game can be difficult, if in fact you don’t know what you’re looking for. Today, it seems there are enough wedges to accommodate not only every type of shot imaginable, but also every type of player. So, where sh 2011 Buyer’s Guide Grips Probably the most unsung and underrated component, the grip is actually the most important feature of any club. If you don’t have a good grip, no matter how well a club is designed, or how well you swing, you won’t get the results you’re hoping for. In 2011, there are several new grips that feature multimaterials, dual compounds and so on, each designed with specific needs in mind. Want shock absorption? How about a firmer, more weather-friendly texture? It’s all here in 2011. Take a look at some of our favorites and choose the right grips for not just your woods and irons, but your putter too. Black Widow Tour Silk Key Feature: Designed with an aggressive pattern with inspiration from Softspikes spikes, the Tour Silk is a firmer more responsive grip with ample tackiness. What We Like: Great looks in both all white or all black, and a firmer feel, which better players will appreciate. Who It’s For: Better players who want comfort and more feeling in their grips. Material: Rubber Design: Textured velvet Size: Standard, ribbed bwgrips.com Black Widow Widow Maker Key Feature: The dual-compound Widow Maker has a lower half like the Tour Silk, but an upper half with corded traction for enhanced gripping power. What We Like: It’s an awesome all-weather grip, and the corded section practically glues itself to a golf glove. Who It’s For: Good to better players who want a responsive grip and who aren’t afraid of playing in the rain. Material: Dual compound Design: Semi-corded Size: Standard bwgrips.com Black Widow Signature II Key Feature: Web Traction Technology that delivers exceptional gripping power. What We Like: Have you ever seen a cooler-looking grip? We haven’t. The soft compound also feels fantastic. Who It’s For: All player types who want a grip that looks gnarly, has a medium firm feel and holds up in the rain. Material: Proprietary compound Design: Round, ribbed Size: Standard bwgrips.com Golf Pride VDR Key Feature: The new VDR grip from Golf Pride has variable depth pressure for excellent shock absorption and a tacky, weather-resistant feel. What We Like: We like the pattern that resembles fingers wrapping around the grip, not to mention the sweet, velvety feel. The colors are cool too (blue, red, white and black). Who It’s For: All players. Material: Variable Depth Rubber Design: Velvet Size: Standard, midsized, undersized golfpride.com Golf Pride Players Wrap Key Feature: This new putter grip incorporates a Tour wrap design on the underside, but a flat paddle design on the top. It’s also seamless. Cool. What We Like: Add this to your “Why didn’t I think of that?” list. This grip has great looks and an even better feel. Who It’s For: Everyone, especially fans of the Tour Wrap grips. Material: Rubber Design: Pistol putter Size: Standard golfpride.com Golf Pride V-RAD Camo Key Feature: Advanced Composite Rubber (ACR) that yields a tacky yet soft feel at impact. What We Like: The feel of the ball seems to travel all the way up the shaft and into our hands. Better players will love that kind of responsiveness. Oh yeah, it’s in a great camo color! Who It’s For: Good to better players who want a soft feel that doesn’t absorb too much feel. Material: ACR Design: Pistol putter Size: Standard golfpride.com Golf Pride Tour Wrap 2G Key Feature: A classic grip made anew with a softer rubber that’s also tackier than before. What We Like: The sweet black, red and white colors! Also, we didn’t think there was much room to improve on the performance and feel of the original Tour Wrap, but Golf Pride proved us wrong. These grips are excellent and hold up beautifully to rain and perspiration. Who It’s For: Everyone who liked the original Tour Wrap and who wants to add a dash of color to their set. Material: Rubber Design: Wrap Size: Small, standard, midsized golfpride.com Lamkin REL 3GEN Key Feature: 3GEN tech married with R.E.L. tech, meaning this grip has amazing feel, durability and performance (3GEN) with a smooth, lightly textured surface (R.E.L.) that maximizes hand-to-grip contact. What We Like: So silky, yet so tacky. What an awesome-feeling grip. Who It’s For: All golfer types, especially those who like a smoother-feeling grip (with loads of tackiness, of course). Material: Proprietary rubber Design: Velvet Size: Standard lamkingrips.com Lamkin Perma-Wrap Classic Key Feature: The popular Perma-Wrap Classic wrap-style grip is now available in white and made with Lamkin’s patent-pending 3GEN material, an advanced rubber compound that creates a natural, secure grip like no other. It lasts a long time, too. What We Like: The new Perma-Wrap Classic with 3GEN looks great and feels even better in the hands. Who It’s For: All types of players. Material: Advanced rubber compound Design: Wrap Size: Standard, standard with 3GEN, midsized, oversized lamkingrips.com Lamkin N-DUR Key Feature: Using a synthetic rubber compound, the N-DUR has a tacky, hexagonal design pattern on the underside of the grip for added gripping support where the fingers take hold. The top is softer for more hand comfort and less fatigue. What We Like: White is the new black. However, these grips also feel great, and the colored section feels tacky and supportive. Multiple colors (on the backside) are available. Who It’s For: All golfers. Material: Synthetic rubber Design: Velvet Size: Standard lamkingrips.com Lamkin E.B.L. 3GEN Key Feature: The 3GEN compound reduces vibration without dulling the feel of the putt. Also, the dual compounds lend a soft feeling on top and a slightly firmer feel on the underside. What We Like: You don’t need to squeeze hard with this grip. And it has a soft, solid feel. Who It’s For: All golfers. Material: The 3GEN compound Design: Constant taper pistol putter Size: Standard, midsized lamkingrips.com Pure PURE Wrap Key Feature: Made of pure rubber with no seams and needing no grip tape, this grip is as evenly constructed as possible. Comes in soft or firm models. What We Like: The air-powered installation is a real hoot, and quite practical. The feel and performance of this grip is superb too, especially in bad weather. Who It’s For: Golfers who want an even, seamless grip without the hassle of tape. Material: Rubber Design: Wrap Size: Standard, midsized puregrips.com Sharpro Dual Performance Key Feature: Using two different rubber compounds, the DP grip has softness in key areas and firmness in the fingers for added control. Also, the DP grip is available in corded models for those who want added firmness and all-weather capabilities. What We Like: These grips seem to be extremely durable, which in our book, is a big plus. Who It’s For: All golfers, including those who like to add color to their bag. Multiple color options are available. Material: Dual rubber Design: Velvet (cord) Size: Standard, oversized sharprogrip.com Superstroke UltraSlim Key Feature: This brand-new design is only 1″ in diameter, compared to the 1.67″ Fatso and 1.3″ Slim designs. Also, its texture is unique–it’s both firm and soft. What We Like: The UltraSlim became the fastest-growing oversized grip at the end of the 2010 PGA Tour. Who It’s For: Everyone looking to get into the benefits of nontapered, oversized putter grips while still staying within the range of size of a traditional grip. Material: Multimaterial Design: Nontapered Size: Standard-slim superstrokegrip.com Superstroke Slim Lite Key Feature: The brand-new 55-gram SuperStroke Slim Lite quickly became the #1 most-played jumbo putter grip model on the 2010 PGA Tour. Why? It’s the lightest jumbo grip on the market. What We Like: SuperStroke’s patented nontaper design in both models allows for finger-tip placement on opposing sides of the shaft, keeping the putterface square, and dramatically improving feel for distance control. Who It’s For: The Slim Lite is for anyone interested in a midsized oversized putter grip. Material: Multimaterial Design: Nontapered Size: Midsized-oversized superstrokegrip.com Superstroke Fatso Lite Key Feature: Weighing in at 85 grams, the SuperStroke Fatso Lite is the biggest and lightest of its kind in terms of weight-to-size ratio, helping it to become the largest putter grip used on the PGA Tour. What We Like: The large surface area brings more of the grip into contact with the hands, inhibiting breakdown of the hands and wrists. Who It’s For: The Super Stroke’s size encourages use of a “soft hands” technique and ensures a smooth and fluid putting stroke. Material: Multimaterial Design: Nontapered Size: Oversized superstrokegrip.com Superstroke Pressure Zone Key Feature: Designed to reduce pressure in the lower hand for straighter and longer shots. How? With Modified Taper Tech that blends a traditionally shaped top half of the grip with a slightly larger parallel bottom half of the grip. What We Like: New ideas. Also, we dig the 40-gram lightness. Who It’s For: Those who want the hands to work more in unison and who want better comfort in the lower hand. Material: Proprietary synthetic material Design: Velvet Size: Standard superstrokegrip.com Tacki-Mac it2 Key Feature: Equipped with negative ions and a tacky, velvet surface, the new Itomic it2 and it2 MID (it2 MID shown) are made of a blend of thermoforming materials that are durable and hold up well in tough weather. They’re also a cinch to keep clean. What We Like: The negative ions are supposed to help relax the hands. We say, why not give it a try? Who It’s For: All types of golfers, especially those who need to relax more. Material: Proprietary compound Design: Velvet Size: Standard, midsized tackimac.com UST Mamiya Comp DV Key Feature: An aggressive, dual-compound pattern that not only helps to add traction, but also works to help line up the fingers on the grip. What We Like: There are a lot of textures going on, all carefully designed for different parts of the hands. Plus, it just looks plain cool, especially in white. Who It’s For: All types of players, especially fans of UST Mamiya graphite shafts. Material: Dual compound Design: Textured Size: Standard ustmamiya.com UST Mamiya Pro DV Key Feature: Made with a firm feel, this grip has a dual-compound top for feel and a corded underside for added firmness and traction. What We Like: Again, sharp looks. We really like the half-cord design, it makes gripping the club a lot easier. Who It’s For: Golfers who desire a firmer feel, but who still like a little softness on the top. Material: Dual-compound half-cord Design: Half-cord Size: Standard ustmamiya.com Winn WinnLite Firm Key Feature: By making this grip lightweight, the club’s center of balance moves away from the hands, resulting in a higher launch angle upon impact. That’s awesome. What We Like: Granted, it absorbs a lot of vibration, but does so without deadening the feel. And the corded design isn’t abrasive like other corded materials sometimes are. Who It’s For: Typically, faster swingers prefer firmer, corded grips. Material: Proprietary V17-PolyCord material Design: WinnLite velvet corded Size: Standard, midsized winngrips.com Winn WinnLite Soft Key Feature: The WinnLite Soft grip features V17-Soft material for ultimate comfort, shock absorption, and feel. The camo design is awesome, and we also like the soft feel. What We Like: Its soft, velvety texture. It’s like it melts into our hands. You don’t even need a glove when using these. Who It’s For: All player types who want a soft feel with great tack and shock absorption. Material: Proprietary V17 material Design: WinnLite velvet Size: Standard, midsized winngrips.com 2011 Buyer’s Guide Shafts Let’s clear up this misconception right now, shall we? The engine of any club isn’t the shaft. It’s you. You’re the driving force behind the golf club’s movement. And how well you go about choosing the right shaft can affect how well you transfer the energy of your body into the golf ball. This year, the ongoing surge of technology in shaft design has shown little slowdown, with new models promising more distance and control than before. So choose wisely, and always make your decisions based on what’s best for your swing, not that of a fellow competitor. Accra DyMatch Key Features: Short for “Dynamically Matched,” Accra’s DyMatch shafts use the latest in cannon, robot and human testing to create three distinct series of shafts that match from driver through hybrid. That means all your woods will have the same torque, tip deflection and flex profile. What We Like: Having all your shafts perform the same way is the key to becoming more consistent with all your woods. Simple as that. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Series 1: 45-75g; Series 2: 65-85g; Series 3: 75-98g. Each series has a unique set of torques, launch profiles and flexes. accragolf.com | Call for price Aldila RIP Key Features: Optimum flex and torque characteristics provide good feel and ballflight. The Beta has a slightly softer tip flex than the original RIP for a slightly higher launch and more spin, while the Gamma has a higher balance point. What We Like: The hoop strength (the shaft’s cross-sectional stability) is increased for more stability near the clubhead, which leads to more shot control. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Beta 60 comes in 62, 64 and 66g; Beta 70 in 74 and 76g; Gamma 60 in 69 and 71g; and Gamma 70 in 78, 79 and 81g. aldila.com | $299 Aldila VooDoo Key Features: Increased cross-sectional stiffness, which equates to longer and straighter shots. In other words, the shaft’s S-Core tech resists ovaling and deformation, meaning it bends more consistently during the swing, resulting in a greater transfer of energy into the golf ball. What We Like: Incredible stability from this uber-popular shaft. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Comes in a huge variety of driver, fairway wood and hybrid models, in several weights and every flex profile. aldila.com | $199 fujikura Blur Key Features: Lightweight, it features a proprietary “Phantium” finish, plus what it calls the thinnest, lightest spread Tow Carbon interweave. What We Like: Its higher balance point helps golfers accelerate faster and generate a faster swing speed while maintaining solid feel. Who It’s For: The 004 is for those wanting mid- to mid-/high launch; 005 is stiffer in the butt and generates a midlaunch and spin; and the TS-65 is for better players wanting a lighter-weight product without losing the stability that’s felt in heavier shafts. Specs: The 004 comes in weights of 47, 48 and 51g; 005 in 55, 58 and 59g; TS-65 in 65g. fujikuragolf.com | $299 Fujikura Motore F3 Key Features: Built using a proprietary method called Swing-Sync, which is said to provide exceptional feedback to the player, allowing for more control. Also, Fujikura’s H.I.T. technology, which is designed to help players store more energy on downswings. What We Like: We sensed a lot of pop from this shaft, even when we tried to swing harder than usual, i.e., the ball didn’t balloon. Who It’s For: Every type of player, especially those who want added distance off the tee. Specs: Comes in 61 and 71g models in R, S, X flexes. fujikuragolf.com | $199 Grafalloy Axis Blue Key Features: Uses high-modulus carbon fiber, and has a low bend point and high-trajectory design to maximize launch angle and peak trajectory. What We Like: The shaft’s unique bend profile delivers terrific energy transfer for more yardage. Who It’s For: Anyone wanting a softer overall shaft flex that yields a unique feel and energy transfer to the ball at impact and maintains stability. Specs: Available in 45, 48 and 50g. grafalloy.com | $100 Grafalloy ProLaunch AMP Key Features: Advanced Material Performance translates to a unique lay-up pattern that powers tee shots, and a reduced torque combines with increased hoop integrity in the grip and mid-sections for maximum energy transfer. What We Like: Delivers incremental ballflight modification throughout the flex range: A & R flexes feature high-trajectory tips, while the S and X progressively stiffen to lower ballflight. Who It’s For: Stronger swingers who want a high ballflight. Specs: Available in 57, 58, 62 and 63g in various flexes. grafalloy.com | $125 Graphite Design Tour AD DJ Key Features: Nanomaterial tech in the tip section combines with the bend profile to produce more distance while maintaining optimal launch and spin. What We Like: Validated on the PGA Tour with success, this shaft promotes accuracy and distance, even when your swing timing might be a little off. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Available in 50, 60, 70 and 80g in various flexes. www.gdintl.com | $420 Graphite Design Tour AD DI Hybrid Key Features: The low torque and high-kick bend profile provide a Tour-like trajectory with midspin and plenty of accuracy. What We Like: DI in the name stands for “deep impact,” which is the impression you’ll get after experiencing the control, workability and performance of this shaft. Who It’s For: Players of all skill levels who want a super hybrid shaft. Specs: Available in 75, 85, 95 and 105g in various flexes. www.gdintl.com | $260 KBS Tour Key Features: Designed for better players, this steel shaft was engineered with “Moment of Inertia” analysis to increase stability and control. By reducing the mass and radius of each step in the shaft in equal proportions along the center line, the shaft does wonders for transferring energy from the golfer to the back of the golf ball. What We Like: The incredible feel and a penetrating, strong ballflight. Who It’s For: Stronger players who need serious control from a high-performance shaft. Specs: Comes in 95, 100, 110, 120, 130 and 133g, in R, S, X flexes. kbsshafts.com | $25 MRC Bassara Wyvern Key Features: Increases driving distance by maximizing clubhead speed and impact velocity through its 47-inch length and slightly lower overall weight. What We Like: The elastic titanium fiber in its tip section reduces deformation during shaft loading to help golfers transfer power. Who It’s For: Players of all abilities. Specs: Available in 43L, 43R, 53R, 53S and 53TS in various flexes. mitsubishirayongolf.com | $350 MRC Diamana __ðilima Key Features: Has a similar bend profile to the original White Board Diamana and incorporates Multi-Dimensional Interlay technology, to deliver a stiffer mid- and tip section than its predecessor. What We Like: Delivers stability through impact without sacrificing feel, along with flatter trajectory and low spin. Who It’s For: Stronger players who want a more penetrating ballflight. Specs: Available in 60, 70 and 80g in various flexes. mitsubishirayongolf.com | $400 Miyazaki Dromos Key Features: Superior multiaxis consistency makes it an upgrade shaft for adjustable hosel drivers. What We Like: It has a proprietary lay-up of composite fibers that reduces the spine effect, for consistent feel and performance, regardless of shaft orientation in the clubhead. Who It’s For: Golfers who can afford to upgrade their adjustable driver. Specs: Available in 61, 72 and 83g in various flexes. miyazakigolfshafts.com | $300 Miyazaki C. Kua Key Features: There are various models in this line, ranging from Superlite driver shafts to rugged hybrid shafts. Shafts are manufactured to extraordinary precision in Japan, with varying degrees of midsection, midtip and tip flex profiles to accommodate different clubs and different types of golf swings. What We Like: The Superlite models are all under 60g, making them incredibly fast and easy to swing. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Comes in a huge variety of driver, fairway wood and hybrid flex profiles. miyazakigolfshafts.com | $249 Nventix NUNCHUK Key Features: Most recently used by Jhonattan Vegas en route to victory on the PGA Tour, the NUNCHUK’s “Tri-Zonal Stability” design offers exceptional power and a greater acceleration of the clubhead. This means the ball flies a lot longer. Users of this shaft say it has a great “one-piece” feeling with the clubhead. What We Like: The name is awesome, but so is the performance. Don’t believe us? Just ask Jhonattan Vegas what he thinks. Who It’s For: For all player types. Specs: Comes in a 104g, one-flex model nventix.com | $259 Oban Kiyoshi Key Features: Utilizing Oban’s Emersion Wrapped Frequency Technology, the Kiyoshi is just the shaft for longer tee shots and a tighter shaft dispersion. What We Like: The color and the name are favorites, but really, this shaft performs as good (if not better) than it looks. Who It’s For: All skill levels who want a high-performance, Tour-caliber shaft. Torques vary by weight class, meaning there’s one for every swing speed. Specs: Comes in 55, 65 and 75g, and hybrid models, in a variety of flex/torque profiles. obanshafts.com | $350 Project X Wood Key Features: A similar bend profile to the Project X iron shaft, the Project X wood shafts yield a very penetrating launch and low spin. Their reinforced cross section provides ample stability, as well. What We Like: We’ve tried this shaft in a number of driver clubheads and have yet to be disappointed. Faster swingers will love the boring trajectory this shaft creates. Who It’s For: For stronger players. Specs: Comes in 60, 62, 66 and 69g in a variety of bend and flex profiles. pxshaft.com | $275 True Temper DG Spinner Key Features: Strictly for wedges, it has a specially engineered section just beneath the grip that boosts spin. What We Like: It effectively increases ball spin–to the tune of up to 700+ rpm. As for feel, it doesn’t feel that much different than a standard Dynamic Gold shaft, which, in our opinion, is a good thing. Who It’s For: Stronger players who want more spin and lower launch. Specs: Available in 124 and 131g in wedge flex. truetemper.com | $50 True Temper GS85 Key Features: A speed step design improves feel and durability, and maximizes trajectory. What We Like: It’s superlightweight for a faster swing speed, and is a more durable alternative to graphite. Who It’s For: Anyone wanting the consistency of steel with the distance and feel of graphite. Specs: Available in 85g in R, S, X. truetemper.com | $45 True Temper Dynalite Gold XP Key Features: Delivers extra trajectory and spin performance through a more responsive tip section. What We Like: Helps the ball get up quickly. Who It’s For: Most golfers, especially lower ball hitters seeking high launch and peak trajectory. Specs: Tapered available in 113, 117 and 120g; parallel available in 117 and 121g in R, S, X. truetemper.com | $30 Ust Mamiya Attas-T2 Key Features: Reduced ply inserts and maximized full-length layers create a balance between torque and flex, for more-efficient shaft loading and a smoother bend profile. Constant taper yields more energy transfer to the ball. What We Like: The use of Ultra-High modulus, low-resin materials improves feel and creates a tighter shot dispersion. Who It’s For: Players seeking a midlaunch, with tight dispersion and penetrating ballflight. Specs: Available in 47, 52, 64, 65, 68, 73, 75, 83 and 85g in various flexes. ustmamiya.com | $399 Ust Mamiya MP5 Key Features: The advanced aerospace micro-ply technology with 38 Micro-Ply layers improves feel without sacrificing performance. What We Like: Its low torque-to-weight ratio delivers the punch necessary for today’s driver clubheads. Nice price too. Who It’s For: All golfers. Specs: Available in 50, 51 and 52g in various flexes. ustmamiya.com | $49 2011 Buyer’s Guide Accessories While it’s true that most of your playing time is spent sizing up a shot and hitting it, to become a better player, you need more than just the latest clubs, shafts and balls. Consider the often-overlooked category of accessories. While it might be easy to write it off as a bunch of gadgets, look closer and you’ll see that each of the following items will not only help you play better, but also enjoy the game that much more. And, really, who can argue with that? GPS Garmin Approach S1 Want to know how far away you are from the front, middle and back of the green, but don’t want to carry a GPS unit? It’s Garmin to the rescue. The new waterproof Approach S1 GPS watch provides you with those yardages, plus it measures your shot’s distance and has a built-in odometer so you can measure how far you’ve walked. It comes with more than 15,000 preloaded U.S. and Canadian golf courses. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery lasts eight hours in GPS mode and three weeks in regular watch mode. The next time you play, the watch stays on! garmin.com | $249 Golfbuddy World The new, high-resolution, color, touch-screen GolfBuddy World comes preloaded with 30,000 worldwide courses and with the capacity to hold another 10,000. Features a full layout view of each hole plus an overhead view from tee to green. Want to know the distance to the pin? Touch the screen, zoom in and adjust the pin placement. This Touch Point Technology also provides users with an instant yardage reading from the ball to the green. Other features include a digital scorecard, statistical analysis and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, all in a shock- and water-resistant casing. golfbuddyglobal.com | $299 Sonocaddie V300+ This unit comes preloaded with basic icon-based hole layouts for over 16,000 U.S. courses. It can be used right out of the box with no downloading and no fees. Optional full Layout view is available along with the satellite photos available in two memberships- the Birdie provides 16,000 US color Layout and Satellite Imagery for $29.95 and the Eagle membership gives over 28,000 Worldwide layouts and satellite imagery for $49.95. sonocaddie.com | $199 Expresso AG1 The 3-in-1 AG1 from Expresso functions as a golf GPS, portable media player (you can watch movies, view pictures and listen to music) and automotive GPS. Built to fit in a golf cart’s cup holder, the touch-screen AG1 measures distances to any point on the hole, measures shots, and keep scores and statistics. Comes pre-loaded with all North American courses (USA & Canada). Also comes with a one-year warranty, built-in golf-cart mount and a car charger. expressogps.com | $220 Callaway uPro mx Callaway’s sleek uPro mx is a handheld, touch-screen GPS unit that comes preloaded with 25,000 courses and a 2.2-inch, full-color LCD screen. Two thumbs up for borrowing the cool touch-screen “swipe” function found on iPhones and vertical/horizontal viewing option. Another bonus: aerial flyovers. Perfect for doglegs, blind shots and holes where you stand on the tee and go, “What in the world was this architect thinking?” callawaygolf.com | $199 onpar GPS The big, colorful OnPar screen displays an aerial view of whichever course you play. Simply touch the hole you’re on and start playing. The touch-screen option is a plus, even though it’s sometimes hard to slide the OnPar’s tiny measuring “ball” with your finger (this option measures distances to anywhere on the hole). What’s best is there are no membership or course-mapping fees. Just buy the unit, sync it with your computer and play. onpargps.com | $349 Golfshot iPhone App The Golfshot iPhone app can be used on 35,000 courses worldwide, is mapped in 11 languages, and features state-of-the-art statistics that can be e-mailed to the user and others in his or her group. The app also provides lay-up positioning based on players’ clubs and their course. Keeps score for up to eight players, and features iPad HD support so you can analyze your stats at home. golfshot.com | $30 Golflogix Smartphone App After a late-February upgrade, GolfLogix lowered its annual Championship Membership fee to $19.95 and announced that its free version now includes distances to greens. The app, which runs on 30 smartphones, including the iPhone, Blackberry and Droid, is the world’s most downloaded golf app. Look for four-player scoring, pro-level tracking and aerials on the free version, too. golflogix.com | FREE ($19.95/Championship Membership) Izzo Golf Swami 3000 Affordable and loaded with every golf course in North America. What could be better? Try no subscriptions or annual fees. Just charge the Swami 3000 and you’re ready to play. While still Spartan (it only gives yardages to the front, middle and back of green), the 3000 is a major upgrade from the current Swami 1500 model, which held only 10 courses. That model now discounts for $69. izzo.com | $99     Bushnell Hybrid Laser GPS Want pinpoint accuracy to the flag and a device that measures distances to the front, middle and back of green (not to mention creeks, bunkers and one that measures your drives)? Consider Bushnell’s new Hybrid Laser GPS. That’s right–laser and GPS. As the company says, it’s “distance made simple.” We liked how easy it was to use (we used the GPS portion more than the laser because its side display is very accessible). Features Pinseeker Technology that hones in on the flag to the exclusion of trees, homes and other background distractions, like hackers on the next tee. Comes with 16,000 courses predownloaded and a rechargeable battery. bushnellgolf.com | $499     BAGS lT Golf The Eazy Bag The Eazy Bag eliminates the need to lift your clubs up and over the edge of the bag, greatly reducing the strain on your shoulders and back. The unique Club Lock System keeps your clubs secure, organized and protected. Comes with wheels on its base. ltgolf.com | $159 Cleveland Hybrid The new Hybrid stand bag from Cleveland features a 10-inch, 14-way top and full-length club dividers, plus 10 strategically placed pockets. But look harder and you’ll notice a few nifty features like a Velcro strip for your glove or putter cover, a rangefinder pocket, a trunk handle, tee sleeves, an oversized towel ring and a pen and cardholder sleeve. Weighs 5.9 pounds and comes in three color combinations. clevelandgolf.com | $170 Sun Mountain Superlight 3.5 We love the big, roomy mouth of the 3.5, not to mention one of the most comfortable strap systems (E-Z Fit Dual Strap) we’ve tried. We also dig how the bottom of the bag was designed so it doesn’t slip off a golf cart. That’s smart stuff. sunmountain.com | $139 Adidas Strike AG Yeah, the white is sure to turn heads, but this bag isn’t just for show. Its lightweight and sturdy construction makes it a cinch to use and carry. We really like the placement of the multiple pockets, and the wide mouth makes dropping and pulling clubs a piece of cake. It also has FAS-TEK technology, meaning you can attach a handful of devices such as a GPS to it, using the type of clip you’d use on a belt or pants pocket. adidasgolf.com | $134 Ping 4 Under Simple and understated, the 4 Under bag has all you need from a lightweight carry bag without excess frill. The four-way divider mouth is plenty big enough, and like virtually every PING bag, the 4 Under promises to last a long, long time. The most unique feature? The retractable strap that makes it easier to lift the bag from a more upright position. ping.com | $134 Mizuno Aerolite IV This lightweight bag is full of cool stuff: a Velcro patch to hold your glove, a big Pelican Pocket for easy access to balls and accessories, a comfortable hip pad and a shoulder harness that’s super comfortable to use. The “Divide and Slide” technology uses the club’s weight to separate the clubs for easy access during play. mizunogolf.com | $149 Callaway Hyper-Lite 4.0 There are 11 pockets on this wide-mouthed, lightweight bag, not to mention a four-point double strap that’s very comfortable to wear. The pen and water-bottle pockets make sense, but we really like how easy this bag is to pick up and put in the trunk, thanks to handles in all the right places. callawaygolf.com | $159 Datrek Sabre Datrek’s lightweight Sabre stand bag includes a 10-inch top with eight full-length dividers, nine pockets, a scorecard holder sleeve and an easily accessible insulated water-bottle holder and ball pocket. Designed with a rubberized lift-assist handle, a stylized hip pad and an ergonomic molded carry handle. Offered in a variety of color combinations. datrek.com | $149 Bag Boy Revolver Plus Bag Boy’s Revolver Plus Cart Bag features a 360° revolving-top design for easy access to your clubs. Plus the company’s innovative Clip-Lok technology keeps clubs and shafts from banging together. Includes 11 compartments, including a large cooler pocket and a fleece-lined valuables pocket. bagboycompany.com | $179 EYEWEAR Pilla Performance Pilla claims that its bulletproof (yes, bulletproof) “Ballistx” lens material is the clearest sports lens on the market. Its light-management system lightens up the putting surface so the user can see and perform with greater accuracy than ever before. Comes in two golf models (Liberty, shown). pillasport.com | $449/two pair Switch Vision These premium sunglasses feature a magnetic, interchangeable-lens system, so you’ll have great clarity no matter what the weather. Incredibly comfortable, too. switchvision.com | $169-$249 Tifosi Slope Weighing just 34 grams, the Slope fits medium to large faces and is made from Grilamid TR-90, a highly flexible nylon. Features hydrophilic rubber nose and ear pieces for a no-slip fit. Comes in 14 different color options, including Pacific Blue (shown). Its GT lens tint features “object illumination,” which makes it easier to spot a ball in flight. tifosioptics.com | $60 Adidas Evil Eye Halfrim Want to incorporate the same equipment that world-class cyclists and Olympic rowers use? Consider Adidas’ newest offering, the Evil Eye Halfrim. Features a wide angle of vision and Light Stabilizing Technology that increases contrasts in your vision. With two-way adjustable nose pads and three-way adjustable temples, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your face. Four swappable lens types are available, including polarized. adidas.com/eyewear | $170 Callaway FT__ÒIH Featuring a techie look and a lightweight yet durable Grilamid TR-90 frame, the FT-IH is semi-rimless so there’s nothing between you and the ball. Fits a medium to large head shape, and its Megol rubber nose and ear tips provide secure nonslip retention. shop.callawaygolf.com | $200 Kaenon Hard Kore The lightweight, durable HARD KORE from Kaenon integrates with the natural form of the wearer’s head shape while accommodating different facial features. All SR-91 lenses are Rx adaptable and provide your eyes with broad-spectrum protection against 100% of all harmful UVA and UVB rays, offering razor-sharp optical clarity and unsurpassed glare reduction. As seen on PGA Tour pro, Robert Allenby. kaenon.com | $209-$219 TRAINING AIDS MomentusGolf Speed Whoosh One of items that made the most, um, noise at the 2011 PGA Merchandise Show Demo Day was Momentus Golf’s Speed Whoosh, a training aid that promises to increase one’s swing speed by 7-10 mph. While it weighs the same as a typical driver, its flexible shaft allows you to swing it more than 20 mph faster than your normal big stick. Swing it just six times, and you’ll notice that distance gain, says the company. What’s most helpful though is the “whoosh” sound it makes in the impact zone (when swung correctly). That gives you the right feedback so you can make solid contact again and again. momentusgolf.com | $70 PSP Golf The Little One Oversized clubheads have been the rage for years, and for good reason–they’re incredibly forgiving. But maybe they’re too forgiving. Hitting the ball off the heel or toe isn’t nearly as punishing as it was 10 years ago. Still, those shots don’t go nearly as far as ones that are hit on the sweet spot. If you struggle to make consistent, flush contact, consider PSP Golf’s The Little One. First introduced in 2000, the severely undersized 7-iron clubhead (it’s the size of a standard club’s sweet spot) is designed so you make solid contact every time. pspgolf.net | $120 Sklz Vari-Break Putting Green Missing too many putts from with 2010 Buyer’s Guide Grips Considering the grip is the only area that connects you with the golf club, not to mention with the golf ball for the matter, it’s a wonder so many golfers overlook this critical component. 2010 is full of grip options. Some new, and some holdovers from last year, thanks to some pretty innovative new technologies in rubber compounds, patterns and more. Check out the following models. We’ve tested almost all of them, and each one has merits to consider. Black Widow Fusion Key Features: Made of a dual-compound material that’s firm where it’s needed and soft where it’s preferred. What We Like: Like the Signature grip, and the variety of other new grips from Black Widow, the Fusion has an aggressive pattern that breathes new life into a lesser-exciting product category. The textured feel is ideal in wet weather. Who It’s For: Golfers who want a new take on grip technology and who like an aggressive look and pattern design. Material: Dual-compound Design: Textured velvet Size: Std., Ribbed Weight: Std. www.softspikes.com Black Widow Signature Key Features: Aggressive patterns via Web Traction Technology on the backside of the grip for more control. What We Like: The dual-compound material is firm and soft (yes, you can have both). We also dig the radical patterns, graphics and the assortments of colors. It’s also refreshing to see a new company get into grips. Who It’s For:Anyone looking for a grip that has an exceptional level of performance. Material: Dual-compound Design: Patterned velvet Size: Std., Ribbed Weight: Std. www.softspikes.com Golf Pride Tour Velvet BCT Cord Key Features: The newer version of the classic Tour Velvet BCT Cord has an improved cotton twill fiber than feels softer on the hands while, at the same time, retaining an excellent amount of tackiness when faced with wet conditions. What We Like: The feel is less abrasive on the hands than were the previous corded models. Who It’s For: Better players will love the firmness of the grip. Everyone else can’t help but fall in love with the softer feel. Material: Advanced Composite Rubber Design: Pistol putter Size: Std. Weight: Std. www.golfpride.com Golf Pride DD2 Key Features: The striking graphics help the hands remember where they should go, and the soft exterior mixed with the firm inside makes the DD2 a popular grip. What We Like: The new color options prove that flashy colors are here to stay. Also, this grip is just plain comfortable with or without a golf glove. Who It’s For: Anyone looking for a cool grip that holds up well in any conditions. Also available in midsized. Material: Rubber Design: Two-Layer Size: Std., Midsized Weight: Std. www.golfpride.com Golf Pride New Decade MultiCompound Key Features: Already a popular grip, the NDMC has a velvet-cord section in the upper portion for firmness and control. The lower section is softer for added comfort and shock absorption. What We Like: The new colors are a nice touch, and so is the midsized version for players who fight the hook. Who It’s For: Everyone looking for control and comfort, not to mention a grip that holds up well in wet conditions. Material: Multicompound Design: Velvet (upper cord) Size: Std., Midsized Weight: Std. www.golfpride.com Golf Pride V-RAD Key Features: Using what Golf Pride calls Advanced Composite Rubber (ACR), the V-RAD putter grips have a unique, tacky feel that’s designed to provide the wanted responsiveness needed from a putter grip. What We Like: Great graphics aside, this grip has a great blend of firmness and soft texturing. It’s also easy to keep clean and dry in wet conditions. Who It’s For: Golfers who want a softer-feeling pistol-style grip. Available in a variety of flashy colors and unique styling. Material: Advanced Composite Rubber Design: Pistol putter Size: Std. Weight: Std. www.golfpride.com Golf Pride Tour Wrap 2G Key Features: A classic grip made anew with a softer rubber that’s also more tacky than before. What We Like: The sweet new red and white colors! Also, we didn’t think there was much room to improve on the feel and performance of the original Tour Wrap, but Golf Pride proved us wrong. These grips are excellent and hold up beautifully to rain and perspiration. Who It’s For: Everyone who liked the original Tour Wrap and who wants to add a dash of color to their set. Material: Rubber Design: Wrap Size: Small, Std., Midsized Weight: Std. www.golfpride.com Lamkin N-DUR Key Features: Using a synthetic rubber compound, the N-DUR has a tacky, hexagonal design pattern on the underside of the grip for added gripping support where the fingers take hold. The top is softer for more hand comfort and less fatigue. What We Like: White is the new black in 2010. However, these grips also feel great, and the colored section feels tacky and supportive. Multiple colors (on the backside) are available. Who It’s For: All Players Material: Synthetic rubber Design: Velvet Size: Std. Weight: Std. www.lamkingrips.com Lamkin Performance Plus 3GEN Key Features: The 3GEN material is designed to absorb vibration better than any grip, as well as feel soft and tacky. More weather resistant, too! What We Like: Everything! The all-white look, the soft yet tacky feeling and the way they absorb vibration. We also dig the fact that these grips have a low torque rating, meaning they resist twisting during the swing. Who It’s For: Golfers who want to absorb a ton of shock and who want a great feel, to boot. Material: Proprietary rubber Design: Velvet Size: Std. Weight: Std. www.lamkingrips.com Lamkin 2TEN Mega Lite Key Features: Sporting a super-jumbo size without the weight (86 grams), this grip is designed to limit excessive wrist movements to help smoothe out herky-jerky putting strokes. What We Like: It’s huge, but not heavy. Also, the red/blue colors and the stitching is awesome. And of course, it feels amazing in our hands. Who It’s For: Golfers who want a quick way to fix their putting stroke and, hopefully, help cure the yips! Standard and midsized versions are also available.) Material: Proprietary compound Design: Velvet Size: Oversized Weight: Std. www.lamkingrips.com Lamkin Crossline Key Features: The classic Crossline grip remains popular for good reason. Made with a proprietary rubber and with a distinctive pattern, the Crossline is durable, reliable and doesn’t twist in the hands. What We Like: We’ve been fans of this grip since day one. Its firm feel makes it easy to grip the club with or without a club. They also hold up exceptionally to wet weather. Who It’s For: All golfers who want a classic grip that has proven itself time and time again. Material: Proprietary rubber Design: Velvet Size: Std., Midsized, Oversized Weight: Std. www.lamkingrips.com Macro Golf Macro Grip Key Features: This putter grip is designed to help golfers with “the yips.” The reducing-oval shape (think of a paddle with a taper on one side) is best optimized with a split hand grip. What We Like: If you use it properly, the hands and wrists are taken out of the putting stroke, making it a cinch to never “yip” your putts again. And yes, the unique shape is legal according to USGA rules. Who It’s For: Do we really need to tell you? Yips no more! Material: Rubber Design: Reducing-oval putter Size: Midsized, Oversized Weight: Heavy www.macrogolf.com Pure Grips Pure Pro Key Feature: They’re installed without using any grip tape, and also feature no parting lines and a consistent wall thickness for a “pure” grip. What We Like: No sticky, messy, lumpy tape under the grip. This makes for a smooth feel. Also, we like how weather-resistant these grips are. Who It’s For: Golfers who want to avoid the inconsistencies that using two-sided tape under the grip sometimes bring. (Tape can be used if desired.) Material: Proprietary rubber Design: Wrap, Velvet Size: Std., Midsized Weight: Std. www.puregrips.com Sharpro Dual Performance Key Feature: Using two different rubber compounds, the DP grip has softness in key areas and firmness in the fingers for added control. Also, the DP grip is available in corded models for those who want added firmness and all-weather capabilities. What We Like: These grips seem to be extremely durable, which in our book, is a plus. Who It’s For: All golfers, including those who like to add color to their bag. Multiple color options are available. Material: Dual rubber Design: Velvet (cord) Size: Oversized Weight: Std. www.sharprogrip.com Tacki Mac Itomic Key Feature: Made of a unique, proprietary material, the Itomic grips are both tacky and remarkably durable. What We Like: With the name “Tacki,” you pretty much already know these grips are going to be good. We’re also big fans of grips that hold up to weather and abrasion, as these grips prove to be among the most long-lasting we’ve seen. Nice colors are available, too. Who It’s For: Golfers who want great performance and durability. Material: Proprietary compound Design: Wrap, Velvet Size: Midsized, Oversized Weight: Std. www.tackimac.com Tiger Shark SuperStroke Slim Key Feature: A midsized version of the SuperStroke Fatso, the Slim also isheavier at 125 grams. It’s still a big grip though, with the same nontaper design and new slip-on technology. What We Like: A more manageable oversized grip. We especially liked how it made our hands feel relaxed without having to worry about making big adjustments to our regular grip position. Who It’s For: Those still on the fence who want to try a bigger grip. Also, golfers with smaller hands. Material: Multimaterial Design: Flat-sided round Size: Mid-Oversized Weight: Std. www.tigersharkgolf.com Tiger Shark Ultra-Tac Jumbo Key Feature: The oversized Jumbo grip from Tiger Shark features Ultra-Tac material. Its increase in size offers supreme cushioning and feel. As for the circumference, it helps the hands relax better and fit more evenly on the grip. What We Like: The feel and shape make us wonder why oversized grips aren’t found on more putters. It’s so easy to putt with __ðem. Who It’s For: All golfers, including those who want to battle the yips and handsy putting strokes. Material: Ultra-Tac Design: Oversized pistol Size: Oversized Weight: Heavy www.tigersharkgolf.com Tiger Shark Pressure Zone Key Feature: Designed to reduce pressure in the lower hand for straighter and longer shots. How? With Modified Taper Tech that blends a traditionally shaped top half of the grip with a slightly larger parallel bottom half of the grip. What We Like: New ideas. Also, we dig the 40-gram lightness. Who It’s For: Those who want the hands to work more in unison and who want better comfort in the lower hand. Material: Proprietary synthetic material Design: Velvet Size: Std Weight: Lightweight www.tigersharkgolf.com Tiger Shark SuperStroke Lite Fatso Key Feature: Bigger and lighter, the SS Lite Fatso is loaded with a ton of tech. It has a new slip-on design for easier installs and a patented no-taper design for gr 2010 Buyer’s Guide Drivers 2010 is a great year to buy a new driver. Manufacturers have (with a few exceptions) returned to more traditionally shaped clubs, stock driver shafts are better than ever (though certainly not as high performing as a premium fitted one), and prices haven’t budged. Another reason to buy is that some drivers are now longer and more forgiving than ever. And, of course, the longer the club, the farther it goes. The really good news is that those long sticks are, thanks to quality clubhead engineering, more accurate than ever, making it easier to hit it big and end up in the short stuff. Golf Tips Legend Our picks for new technologies, hot trends and equipment standouts. But don’t take our word about all the new offerings out there. As with any golf purchase, head to a range, pro shop or green-grass store and demo a wide variety of clubs before you buy. Let your experience dictate your choices. You’ll be glad you did. Acer XDS Insider Key Feature: Its clubhead’s profile and contour were designed to help create a mental picture of an inside-out swing. What We Like: The top of the clubhead definitely screams “hit a draw!” Also, the price is nice. Who It’s For: Slicers. And the last we checked, there are a few of them on the course. Even us. Specs: The 460cc clubhead comes in two lofts: 10.5_¡ and 12_¡, and is 1.5_¡ closed, almost guaranteeing you’ll never hit another slice. Both the body and clubface are titanium. hirekogolf.com | $99 Adams Speedline Fast 10 Key Feature: An aerodynamic sole that permits air to flow around it more easily. All told, there’s 10 percent less drag, and that translates to longer drives. What We Like: Traditional shape at address, but lots of technology “under the hood.” Who It’s For: Golfers of all abilities, but the weekend warriors will gravitate to it the most. Specs: Available in four lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 12.5_¡. Comes in two stock shaft options: Aldila Wasabi or Matrix HD (both 60g). adamsgolf.com | $299 Adams Speedline 9032LS Key Feature: Heel/toe scoops that help decrease drag and increase clubhead speed by an impressive 3-4 mph. With a 460cc clubhead that equals an increase in distance and forgiveness. What We Like: A face area that’s 17.3 percent larger than the original Speedline. That equates to more forgiveness on off-center strikes. Who It’s For: Golfers who dig larger clubheads and need more speed. Specs: Available in three lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡. Comes with a stock, 60-gram Aldila VooDoo NV6 shaft. adamsgolf.com | $369 Bridgestone J38 460 Key Feature: A more rigid sole that helps to reduce spin rates and promote a higher launch. What We Like: We’re suckers for traditional-looking shapes, and J38 460 delivers this at address. With a 460cc clubhead, we felt like we couldn’t miss. Who It’s For: Built for the better player and mid- handicappers who like traditional shapes as much as they do varying shot shapes. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡, and is fitted with a Fujikura Motore F1 65 shaft (R, S, X flexes). bridgestonegolf.com | $399 Callaway Diablo Edge Key Feature: A four-piece modular design that produces the most weight-efficient titanium driver Callaway’s ever created. What We Like: Every part of the club is precision formed and accurately fused together, so weight can be positioned for high-MOI and penetrating ballflights. Who It’s For: Golfers looking to gain some serious downswing speed for more distance off the tee. Specs: Comes in four different lofts (9_¡, 10_¡, 11_¡ and 13_¡) and an Aldila Habanero shaft (3 flexes). Tour version available, too. callawaygolf.com | $299 Callaway FT-iZ Key Feature: A triangular head shape that helps to create unprecedented speed, stability and shot consistency. What We Like: The Callaway team used polar weighting, which positions weight at the front and rear of the driver, raising MOI. That makes the FT-iZ more stable, even on off-center hits. Who It’s For: Golfers who like to use nontraditional shapes. Specs: Comes with a stock Aldila VooDoo shaft (L, R, S flexes) and is available in four lofts: 9_¡, 10_¡, 11_¡ and 13_¡. Custom shafts available. callawaygolf.com | $399 Callaway FT-9 Key Feature: Fusion Technology, which allows weight to be positioned in the extreme perimeter via web weighting. This ups the MOI and optimizes the CG. What We Like: Better sound! That’s reason enough to pick up the best Fusion driver yet. The traditional shape is so refined, we can’t believe it’s actually a composite-body driver. Who It’s For: Just about anyone. Specs: Comes in draw, neutral or Tour, with an MR Fubuki shaft. Four lofts: 9_¡, 10_¡, 11_¡ and 13HT_¡. callawaygolf.com | $399 Cleveland HiBORE Monster Key Feature: The face is 16 percent bigger than the previous HiBORE, making it almost too easy to hit it solid. We say this driver is “scary long and straight.” What We Like: Although bigger, this version looks better than ever. The three options (draw, straight, Tour) are well designed to accommodate any golfer. Who It’s For: Anyone who wants to hit it better, longer, farther, straighter, etc. Specs: Three versions (regular, Tour, draw), multiple lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡) and two Fujikura Fit-On FLIGHTSPEED shaft options. LH avail. clevelandgolf.com | $299 Cleveland Launcher DST Key Feature: Its weight–what there is of it. The Launcher DST weighs less than 300 grams, some 25 grams less than the typical thunder stick. What We Like: With weight removed, the Cleveland designers could lengthen the DST to 45.75 inches. That results in a bigger swing arc and more distance. Who It’s For: Golfers who dig a light, long, traditionally shaped big stick. Specs: The 460cc driver comes in three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡ and 12_¡), and its stock shaft is an Ultralite Diamana Red (three flexes). Also comes in a draw model. clevelandgolf.com | $299 Cobra ZL Key Feature: An adjustable hosel that can change the face angle up to 3_¡. What We Like: The improved sound over some of the company’s recent high-pitched hollow offerings. Who It’s For: Players seeking maximum distance and accuracy. And, really, who isn’t looking for that? Specs: Comes in four lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 11.5_¡. The stock Aldila VooDoo shaft was built specifically for Cobra. Measures 46 inches, so be prepared for more distance, but a potentially higher launch for some. cobragolf.com | $349 Cobra S2 Key Feature: An adjustable hosel that changes the face angle from neutral to closed to open. What We Like: Its 9 Point Face Technology that helps promote ball speed across the entire clubface. Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers happy to tweak the club so it fits their preferred ballflight. Specs: Comes in four lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 11.5_¡. Stock shaft is Fujikura’s Fit-On Max 65 (L, R, S, X flexes). Measures 46 inches, which will add distance, but could impact accuracy. cobragolf.com | $299 Fourteen JC-909 Key Feature: A higher-back head design that Fourteen claims helps alleviate players dropping their right shoulders at impact. What We Like: Its four-piece, 460cc titanium head. After striping a few with it, we were convinced that this company is a rising star. Who It’s For: Golfers looking to tack on some extra yards to their drives and who can handle its length. Specs: Available in two lofts, 9_¡ and 10.5_¡. Measures 46.5 inches and comes with a stock MD-370Lt shaft. fourteengolf.com | $699 Hippo Hex XXL Key Feature: Hippo’s new Hex XXL driver boasts a Forged Beta Titanium, 460cc clubhead with the highest MOI allowed, due to internal (4 grams per corner) weighting. What We Like: With maximum MOI, you’re guaranteed that it’ll resist twisting at impact. Who It’s For: All golfers looking for a forgiving, oversized driver at a very affordable price. Specs: Comes with Hippo’s proprietary 100 percent graphite shaft. There are a number of lofts to choose from. hippo-golf.com | $189 Krank Rage Key Feature: From a company known for their dominance at long-drive events comes a 460cc offering that delivers the highest ball speed of any of their drivers yet. That says a lot. What We Like: Looks cool; hits big. Who It’s For: Judging by their variety of shaft lengths, everyone. Although long drivers will gravitate to the stretched- out 47-inch version. Specs: Available in five lofts: 6_¡, 7.5_¡, 9_¡, 10.5_¡ and 12_¡. Its Fujikura Diesel shaft comes in five flexes and a variety of lengths from 43 to 47 inches. krankgolf.com | $349 Louisville SMART Pro B.E. Key Feature: An enlarged pear-shaped clubhead that was developed with the feedback of a four-time PGA Tour champ. What We Like: Louisville isn’t afraid to “keep it real.” Their persimmon is beautiful. Feels great. Who It’s For: Anyone who thinks metal woods just don’t cut it. Specs: The 250cc clubhead comes in an 11_¡ version. Available in five flexes (R, S, X, A, L) and graphite and steel shafts. Lengths vary from 43 to 45 inches. Free headcover included. louisvillegolf.com | $309-339 Mizuno MP-630 FastTrack Key Feature: Its 45 trajectory settings via Mizuno’s Fast Track system. What We Like: It’s hard not to love a club that affords you the option to adjust ballflight across the board. High, low, left, right…this club does it all. Who It’s For: Tweakers. With so many trajectories to choose from, you can dominate the course, no matter what the playing conditions. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡. Stock shaft is a 64-gram MRC Fubuki. Measures a shorter-than-usual 45 inches. mizunousa.com | $499 Mizuno MP-630 Key Feature: A 444cc four-piece clubhead that has an open clubface. What We Like: Its low center of gravity, which produces a low spin and a boring but neutral ballflight. The nifty frequency- tuned sole for a more solid sound. Who It’s For: Better players who like a traditional head shape and solid-sounding thunder stick. Specs: Available in two lofts, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡. Stock shaft is a 64-gram MRC Fubuki. Measures a shorter-than-usual 45 inches. mizunousa.com | $299 Nike VR STR8-FIT Tour Key Feature: A compression channel that increases ball speeds across the entire face. What We Like: 32, count __ðem, 32 face-angle options via Nike’s STR8-FIT adjustable-face technology. Who It’s For: Players who like to tweak their drives with a twist of a wrench. Specs: Comes in four lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 11.5_¡), and an Aldila VooDoo shaft. Clubhead size is either 440cc or 460cc, depending on the club’s loft. Also comes in a Tour version that’s STR8-FIT-less. nikegolf.com | $399 Nike SQ Machspeed Str8-Fit Key Feature: The PowerBow design and sole diffuser that help reduce drag and encourage faster acceleration than any previous Nike driver. What We Like: Its eight different face-angle options, which make it a breeze for you to shape your shots. Also, it addresses what has been an issue in large clubheads: drag. Who It’s For: Anyone who doesn’t mind playing with a weird-looking club, as long as it performs. Specs: Comes in five lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡ and HL). nikegolf.com | $299 Ping G15 Key Feature: Its face, which is a tad larger than last year’s G10. That increases forgiveness and places more power behind the ball. What We Like: The PING engineers built the G15 with an ultrathin crown and external weighting for a higher trajectory and low spin. Who It’s For: Made for everyone, but golfers who need help launching tee shots will benefit the most. Specs: Comes in four lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡, 13.5_¡) and a stock PING TFC 149D or Aldila Serrano 60. pinggolf.com | $350 Ping i15 Key Feature: Internal weights placed away from the face help to knock spin rates down to produce a more Tour-like trajectory and better control. What We Like: Built with a 460cc clubhead, but it doesn’t look like it because of its pear-shaped head. Not to mention PING’s classic good looks. Who It’s For: Better golfers who like to shape their shots without the aid of adjustability. The i15 is made with a fade bias, so slicers beware! Specs: Comes in three lofts (8_¡, 9.5_¡ and 11_¡). Measures 45.75 inches. pinggolf.com | $405 Powerbilt Air Force One Key Feature: Nitrogen-Charged Technology. What’s that? The clubhead is filled with nitrogen gas to provide weightless In Case you missed it Holiday Gift Guide 7 Gear Upgrades to Gift This Season Ted Odorico October 17, 2026 0 Editor's Picks & Reviews Hit More Greens with Tri-Fusion Tech Ted Odorico October 17, 2026 0 Editor's Picks & Reviews Does “Forward Axis Weighting” Actually Work? Ted Odorico October 17, 2026 0 Editor's Picks & Reviews Total Course Control with the Mileseey GenePro G1 Ted Odorico October 6, 2026 0 0 0 Your Cart Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop Continue Shopping