Fairway Woods/Hybrids

Titleist Unveils New 917 Drivers & Fairway Metals

The new Titleist 917 drivers and fairway metals for 2016 look to build upon the original D1 models’s standards for complete performance off the tee and on long approaches, providing maximum distance and forgiveness with precise adjustability to benefit dedicated golfers at every level of the game.

Titleist 917D2 and 917D3 driver models, engineered with proprietary Active Recoil Channel 2.0 and SureFit CG technology, are the result of an uncompromising “complete performance” design strategy to develop the industry’s most comprehensive and efficient driver designs — ones that have earned immediate acceptance and validation by many of the world’s best players, including Adam Scott, Bill Haas and Jimmy Walker, who trusted a 917D2 8.5° model to his first major title at the PGA Championship.

“When we talk to golfers about driver performance, distance and forgiveness are always paramount. But they aren’t the only attributes that players look for in a driver. They also want a repeatable trajectory, a shot shape they can count on for better accuracy. And they need it to look, sound and feel great,” said Dan Stone, Vice President, Titleist Golf Club R&D. “The meticulous nature of our R&D process guarantees that any new innovation ultimately complements the overall package, and we’re confident that 917 delivers on golfers’ each and every requirement. There may be other adjustable drivers in the market, but none are able to maximize the total driving performance for golfers of all abilities like 917.”

The new 917’s SureFit CG provides precise adjustability through a highly efficient interchangeable weight system, optimizing spin and launch conditions for a more consistent trajectory and tighter shot dispersion. The unique orientation of SureFit CG, positioned at an angle deep on the sole, enables the center of gravity to be moved from Neutral to a back, heel position (Draw) or forward, toe position (Fade). Each SureFit CG position affects dynamic face closure and gear-effect sidespin, enabling golfers to enhance their preferred ball flight and shot shape through more consistent impact and spin. The streamlined design of SureFit CG – which provides significant weight savings versus competitive “track” systems – allows the CG to be manipulated while preserving 917’s high-MOI properties for distance with forgiveness. SureFit CG also provides the flexibility for headweight adjustability (+/- 4 grams).

Like their 917 driver counterparts, Titleist 917F2 and 917F3 fairway models are designed using new patented Active Recoil Channel 2.0 and SureFit CG technology to produce an uncompromising combination of distance, forgiveness and trajectory control with tour-preferred looks, sound and feel. They deliver increased ball speed for more distance with superior forgiveness, industry-leading adjustability with optimized trajectory control, and tour-inspired sound and feel through the same key technologies found in the driver, including

Active Recoil Channel, a Variable Thickness Face Insert tuned with ARC 2.0 to deliver greater off-center ball speed for more overall distance across the face; a precise High-MOI Design with a low center of gravity location delivers stability and forgiveness by preserving off-center ball speed for more distance; and the SureFit Hosel and SureFit CG weight system. They are available in 13.5, 15, 16.5, 18 and 21-degree lofts.)

All new 917 drivers and fairways are available Oct. 21.

Driver $499 | Fairways $319 | www.titleist.com

Fairway Woods Join Air Force One Golf Crew

PowerBilt has made headlines with its Air Force One driver, and now it has unveiled its new Air Foil fairway woods. Offered in a 15-degree 3-wood and 19-degree 5-wood, the Air Foil features technology that helps shots get airborne quickly and easily. Because fairway woods generally sport a shallower clubface, their trampoline effect is reduced. The Air Foil’s dual slot wave design, however, creates an accordion effect: The thin face flexes inward at impact, initiating the buildup of Nitrogen pressure inside the clubhead. Then a trampoline effect takes place, as the face is thrust back to its original position at a high velocity to generate rocketing ball speed and increased distance. The club design increases how fast the face flexes at impact, promoting faster ball speed across the face, which promotes consistently longer distance on every swing. The dual slot wave design creates a high launch angle with a tight dispersion, making an ideal fairway wood design for players who have difficulty hitting a 3-wood off the fairway. To further enhance shot performance, the nitrogen valve is positioned to increase MOI and create an optimum launch angle.

“Our brand is known for producing easy-to-hit equipment that increases ball speed for more distance,” says AFO President Ross Kvinge. “One thing we see is average players having a difficult time getting fairway wood shots up in the air. Thus, our goal in the Air Foil dual slot wave design and independent testing shows we achieved our goal. Add in the nitrogen-charged technology and we gave the new Air Foil a one-two punch for increased distance and accuracy.”

$199.99 with Tour Grade shaft, $149.99 with an Air Force One Fujikura shaft | www.powerbilt.com

We Tried It: TaylorMade Rocketballz Fairway Woods

As if you haven’t heard of these clubs yet (how could you not?), the new RocketBallz (RBZ) line from TaylorMade promises big distance, especially in the new fairway woods. I took time personally to try the new woods (I tested two models), and here’s my take.

Before you dig on my summary, let’s clarify a few things. TaylorMade claims its Tour players can add upwards of 17 yards of distance using an RBZ fairway wood vs. the previously hailed Burner Fairway wood. That’s a big number, and some regular hacks like you and I might gain even more. Nonetheless, we appreciate the cajones it takes to make such a bold statement for added power–let alone from a fairway wood and not a driver, both within the TaylorMade brand.

There’s also another point worth considering. When we test equipment for this very column, we don’t do robotic testing. And, we don’t use a launch monitor. Why not, you ask? Because you can get that sort of data just about anywhere. And frankly, we think it’s better to test equipment the way most folks are able to test new gear: with our hands, eyes and ears and in real-life scenarios out on the golf course. This gives us more than just scientific data–it helps us evaluate not only club performance, but also how well a particular club helps us perform out on the course. No amount of computer data can tell you how good a club feels in your hands when you swing it, let alone how a club affects your confidence and shotmaking decisions. So we go “old-school” on purpose, hoping that our practical trial of new equipment presents a useful analysis for you when it’s time to choose the right equipment for your game.

INITIAL LOOK:
Five years ago, I don’t think the RBZ color combo (a sparkly white finish and neon green/black graphics) would have worked. However, it seems there are some pretty savvy and fashion-forward people over there at TaylorMade. Bold colors are back in style in a big way, and neon green is a huge hit. I happen to like the graphics, especially the white crown against the black clubface and the green turf. With such contrast, and with no boundaries on what might look good or not, I wish the RBZ woods had a bigger alignment aid on the crown. I know, the white crown/black face is supposed to help with alignment, but with a club that’s so fashion forward, a black or even green line on the crown might look really cool. (It works on putters, so why not on woods?)

The traditionally shaped, oversized RBZ has a slightly deeper face than most new fairway woods–something that I’ve wanted to see for some time now. Underneath, you can see the Speed Pocket (more on that later) and weight plug directly behind it.

FEEL & PERFORMANCE:
I tried two models: the regular RBZ 3-wood (15_¡) and the high-launching RBZ HL (17-loft). Reason being, I had heard how long this wood was, and thought if I could get away with hitting a longer fairway wood, I’d like to hit it as high as I could, too. With woods, in my case, the higher the better, since they land softer and are easier to control. There’s also a Tour version, with an open face angle and less internal draw-bias weighting. I didn’t test that one.

First, the feel on both RBZ 3-woods was exceptional. They both felt lighter than my own 3-wood, and turns out, they are–by about 10 grams. Also, both models are .5 inches longer than my 3-wood (which is 43 inches). That took a little getting used to. (A lot of the new 3-woods that promise big distance are longer than the unofficial standard of 43 inches.)

In terms of how each wood performed, let’s start with the 15_¡ RBZ. At first, I wasn’t quite sure how to handle this thing. With the longer shaft, I wondered, “Should I hit this thing like a driver?” Because of this, the first few shots fired were a little fat and drifted to the right. A quick correction in my setup (I moved the ball forward a bit), and I quickly started hitting shots that, no joke, seemed longer than some of my driver tee shots as little as five to six years ago. Missed shots, which for me tended to be on the toe, had some distance loss and flew lower. Some of my fades and hooks were more pronounced than I’m used to, as well.

After evaluating the length of my shots, I’d say TaylorMade was right on the money. I was hitting this club, which is the same one you’d find off the rack at Dick’s Sporting Goods, about 15 yards farther than my old 3-wood. And no, I didn’t have the Burner fairway before and I don’t generate a 150 mph ball speed (as the fine print indicates on the RBZ ads that promote the added power boost). The Matrix Ozik shaft tested was incredibly responsive, too, as it helped produce solid shots that flew at a consistently higher-than-normal trajectory, even on less than 100% golf swings.

The Speed Pocket, which is a channel cut behind the face and visible from underneath the club, helps boost the COR and ball speed, resulting in what TaylorMade considers to be the longest fairway woods they’ve ever made.

Long story short: The RocketBallz fairway woods are exceptionally long. They’re easy to hit and pretty forgiving, too. They may not be the straightest woods I’ve tried, but they’re definitely the longest. However, don’t misconstrue that. The only reason they probably aren’t as accurate as my regular 3-wood is because I hit the RBZ farther–both when I hit it straight and when I hit it crooked.

CONCLUSION & ANALYSIS:
I think my practical application holds up to what you’ve probably already heard. The RocketBallz woods are long. But the real question isn’t whether or not they produce long shots, it’s whether you need longer shots from your fairway woods in the first place.

I’ve always considered my 3-wood to be an alternative to the driver when faced with tee shots that require a straight, controlled drive to a certain distance.

I expect my tees shots with my 3-wood to fly about 235 yards or so. With the RBZ, it’s more like 250 yards. From the fairway, I’ve always wanted the same thing–accuracy over distance. If I get lucky enough to poke my 3-wood onto a green in two shots on a par-5, then great! If not, at least I knew I could hit it straight and have a short pitch left to deal with.

Question is, would I trade off the shorter but more accurate 3-wood I currently own for a 3-wood that’s a lot longer and a little less controllable? That’s yet to be seen. I’ll have to play a few more rounds with an RBZ wood to contend whether or not the added distance off the tee and from the fairway actually helps lower my scores. For you, more power might be exactly what you want. For better players however, who generally put a premium on control first/power second when it comes to their fairway woods, maybe the RocketBallz fairway woods are so long, they sort of defeat the purpose of having a fairway wood if it’s, in fact, almost as long as their driver (and maybe just as uncontrollable). That’s not true in every case, but among some better players I’ve talked to, some RBZ models are so long that they have trouble finding a spot in the bag for it.

Now remember, I didn’t test just one model. I also tried the RBZ HL, which is generally designed for golfers who need some help getting the ball airborne. And this is where things got really interesting, folks. I hit the HL model farther and as straight as I do my regular 15_¡ 3-wood. Better yet, I hit it higher and with a launch angle and ballflight I could have only dreamed about until now. For instance, from the fairway with the RBZ HL, I can probably fly the ball 245 yards and land it softly with little to no forward roll. That’s awe-inspiring to me, and something I never could do until now. Sure, I hit the RBZ HL really high (we’re talking driver high, folks), which may hurt me when playing in the wind, but that’s not an issue for me. I want to hit high shots that fly a mile and stop on a dime. With the RBZ HL, I can do just that. Granted, I hit the 15_¡ RBZ model a little farther than the HL–but I didn’t care. I’ll take the high-launching, straight-flying HL model any day of the week.

Point is, the RBZ fairway woods are really long, just as TaylorMade says they are. But with TaylorMade leading the charge behind long-hitting woods and some other equipment companies doing the same, it’s important you approach purchasing these woods with caution. Only go for the added distance (in my case, at the expense of some control) if you need it. If you don’t need the distance, try a higher-lofted model (there are five lofts to choose from in the RBZs), and you’ll probably hit your fairway woods higher and straighter than ever. Prior to this test, I’d have never even considered an HL model 3-wood, since I usually hit the ball high in the first place. But the way equipment is changing, getting fit for the right clubs that match your style of play is the way to go. And don’t just use launch-monitor data–get the clubs that make you feel confident and help you hit better shots. For me, it’s not the longest RBZ 3-wood, but the one that helps me hit it as long and straight as possible.

I recommend you get out and visit a TaylorMade demo day and test a few models for yourself, the way I have. After some trials, you’ll find it easy to dial in the right RBZ wood for your game, even if that means choosing the one you didn’t hit the longest. They’re insanely long, fun to hit and look and feel great.

We Tried It: Mizuno’s Hot New Woods

When it comes to equipment, Mizuno has been a top contender in the forged-iron category for what seems like forever. Year after year, they crank out irons that not only look like works of art, but also, in the right hands, perform as good as an iron possibly can. But this go-around, we wanted to take a look at something else Mizuno has been doing really well. You may not think of metalwoods when you think of Mizuno, but we’re here to tell you it’s time to change your thinking. The latest crop of woods from Mizuno don’t disappoint, as we found out during some hands-on testing with a driver, fairway wood and hybrid club.

JPX-800 Driver

Looks And Feel: The forged, all-titanium JPX-800 driver is a real treat to look at. Its dark navy-blue finish sits well in the bright sun, and the shaping of the club makes it easier to align than a traditional pear-shaped driver would be. (The JPX-800 has more of a triangular, modern head shape.) When combined with a custom white Mitsubishi Rayon Fubuki shaft, the driver almost has a nautical look to it. As for how it feels, we expected this driver to feel great, and it does. The feel on solid shots resembles what a forged iron from Mizuno feels like: smooth and buttery. Off-center hits felt slightly firmer, but the Ultimate Dynamic Stability and Hot Metal face technologies really made the sweet spot feel huge. We hardly missed.

Performance: Hitting the JPX-800 Driver was quite a surprise. From a company that tends to make irons designed for better players (except for the new JPX-800 irons, which are insanely long and forgiving), we expected this driver to cater more toward lower-handicappers and be a little more challenging to wield. We’ve even read the reviews of this driver from other sources, claiming the ball flew lower and with modest distance. Dare we say, we disagree with that assessment. We found this driver was both easy to hit and flew higher than several other drivers we’ve tried this year. Maybe it was the finely tuned Fubuki shaft, the 45.5-inch shaft length, or just plain ol’ good design, but this driver was easy to align and flew really straight. Best of all, we found shots hit with this driver to be very consistent in terms of ballflight (moderate to high) and spin rate (moderate.)

Bottom Line: In the midst of adjustable-driver tech, it’s good to know you can still buy a great driver without adjustability features. The JPX-800 is as straightforward as it gets in terms of clean aesthetics, ample forgiveness and distance on both solid and off-center hits. Thanks to a square face angle, this driver showed some maneuverability as well, which is ideal for players who like to shape shots. It’s a top pick among nonadjustable drivers for 2011.

Pros: Solid feel, surprisingly forgiving on off-center hits.

Cons: No left-landed models, and we question the need for that extra long shaft.

JPX-800 Fairway Wood

Looks And Feel: Like the driver with the same name, the JPX-800 fairway woods have a deep navy-blue finish and a modern head shape, albeit in a low-profile, fairway-wood design. Shots hit on the sweet spot felt firm and responsive–which, by the way, is what we want from a fairway wood. Off-center hits had a tinge more vibration, but again, that’s to be expected from a stainless-steel design. On a side note, the beveled leading edge really made solid ball contact easier to achieve–something we wish we saw more of in all fairway-wood designs.

Performance: The JPX-800 fairway wood has more of the feel and performance we’ve come to expect from Mizuno. Better players will like the square face angle, making it easier to hit a variety of shots. Higher-handicappers or slower swingers may see their shots fly to the right, but the right shaft and flex combination ought to mitigate that. As for distance, we hit several bombs from the fairway that rivaled a few of our tee shots. The ball flew with a moderate trajectory–again, better players will like this, slower swingers and/or higher-handicappers will want more height in their fairway shots.

Bottom Line: Look for the JPX-800 fairway woods in the bags of better players who want a no-nonsense fairway wood that delivers on just about any shot you try to hit with it.

Pros: Long and maneuverable.

Cons: Slow swingers will want a softer shaft and/or more loft to get the ball airborne.

JPX-800 Hybrid

Looks And Feel: Right away, you can tell the JPX-800 doesn’t look much like the other woods in the series. The paint scheme is the same, but the wing-style, perimeter-weighting look on the crown makes this club look like it’s geared for some real game improvement. Whether hit from the fairway or rough, this club feels heavy–which, in our opinion, helps prevent us from trying to lift the ball in the air.

Performance: It may be the "ugly duckling" of the group, but the JPX-800 hybrid might be our favorite in the JPX-800 line. It’s got just about everything working for it: It’s easy to hit, it’s long, and it can be used to hit a variety of shots. The "Drop Down Crown" pushes the CG low for a quick, high ballflight, and again, the beveled leading edge makes for clean, crisp contact with the golf ball. We tested this club with a Fubuki shaft (all the clubs we tried had one) and found the ball flew high and long. Better yet, unlike some easy-to-hit hybrids that have a lot of draw bias, we didn’t feel as though this hybrid forced us to play a draw. Put it this way: We hit a few 215-yard shots dead straight that landed on the green with little to no forward roll. We’ll take that all day, folks.

Bottom Line: A wonderful hybrid that can be played anywhere on the course. We also like the hosel’s adjustability, in case you want it to be tweaked a degree or two, flat or upright (we suggest you try to match your irons, since hybrids are designed to be swung like one).

Pros: Remarkable playability.

Cons: The crown is a bit funky looking, but you’ll get used to it.

We Tried It

Late last year, Titleist introduced its next generation of woods, called the 910 series. These three offerings–driver, 3-wood and hybrid–continue the company’s tradition of making Tour-caliber golf clubs for better golfers.

Quite possibly the golf industry’s most sophisticated off-the-rack clubs, these sleek all-black clubs feature what’s called a SureFit adjustable hosel and come with a wide variety of pre-mium stock shafts. If you’re a player, you’ve got to try them.

Titleist 910D3 Driver
First Impression: If there’s one thing Titleist consistently does across the board, it’s make top-tier golf equipment designed primarily for better players. And the company doesn’t hide behind that truism, they embrace it by essentially claiming that if their equipment is suited properly for a Tour player, it’s good enough for weekend warriors to use, as well. We were lucky enough to try one of the new pear-shaped 445cc 910D3 drivers (the other offering, the D2, has a more modern, round-shaped profile).

Now, before you read any further, it’s important to remember that we’re not Tour players and we don’t play as often as you might think. Hence, we were a bit intimidated by what we were about to test.

At first glance, the all-black cosmetics had a stealthy appearance that looked fast and sleek. Second, the 9.5_¡ 910D3 came with a SureFit, dual-angle adjustable hosel that could be adjusted to fine-tune a player’s launch angle and ballflight characteristics (higher/lower, fade/draw). Those were two big design pluses (and confidence boosts), and we hadn’t even put the club in play yet. Next, the shaft we tried was a “stock” Mitsubishi Rayon Kai’li 65R. The driver measured 45 inches and had a standard velvet-style grip.

Performance: In our trial, the 910D3 not only was playable, but has turned out to be one of the top drivers we’ve tried in 2011. The ball launched with the type of ballflight that’s to be expected from a Titleist driver–no ballooning or excessively high trajectories. Rather the ball flew with a mid to lower ballflight that better players tend to prefer. When we hit it squarely, it really flew a long way. At impact, the ball had a muted sound but a responsive feel that, again, better players will like.

In testing the 910D3, we learned that while custom-fitting the SureFit dual-angle hosel can certainly help you fine-tune your game, it won’t alleviate your problems if you’re playing with the wrong shaft. In the case of the driver we tried, we found the best results to come from faster swing speeds–and we tried an R-flex model. In other words, because of it’s Tour-friendly performance attributes, if you swing slower and want to reap the rewards of this driver, you might consider adding a degree or two more loft, and/or making sure you have the correct flex profile for your game.
All in all, we felt that it was an awesome driver and produced solid results.

Specs: 910D3 9.5_¡ with the Mitsubishi Rayon Kai’li 65R shaft. Three other stock shafts available. Custom options too. $449

Titleist 910F
First Impression: Like the 910 drivers, Titleist’s new fairway woods are sleek and pleasing to look at. Whether looking down on it at address or pulling it out of the bag, the sleek-looking woods make you feel like you’re playing a round of golf with Johnny Cash.

Performance: The fairway woods also were built for the better player, so they’ll be a challenge for higher-handicappers to make consistently solid contact. When we hit the 910F “on the screws,” it yielded shots that pierced through the air on a penetrating yet high trajectory–whether teed up or on the turf. These results largely come from the club’s thinner crown technology. Titleist engineers pushed weight lower and farther back in the clubhead. As for acoustics, we noticed that solid strikes produced a muted sound that better players prefer. There was no high-pitched “ting” or hollow sound that game-improvement clubs produce.

Technology: While Titleist has built players’ clubs for years, with the introduction of the 910 series, they’ve raised the bar for adjustability. Most impressively, this new series allows golfers to change the club’s loft and lie angles independent of one another, all while offering numerous premium stock shafts of varying flexes and weights.

As we like to regularly remind readers, the best way to find the club that’s right for you is to get fitted, and Titleist has covered all the bases with these new clubs. And with the right shaft, you can personalize the clubs even more.
Not personal enough? Consider that all woods come with a precision bezel weight directly in line with the club’s CG. An optional precision weight kit is available with 2g, 5g, 7g, 9g and 12g weights to adjust swing weight and feel with different shafts.

Specs: 910F 15_¡ with the Mitsubishi Rayon Diamana ‘Ahina 82 (stiff, 82 grams, 3.1_¡ torque). Other shafts, including custom options, available. $279

Titleist 910H
First Impression: The most forgiving offering in the 910 series, the 910H hybrid comes in four loft options and the same black color scheme of its bigger, longer brethren.

Performance: For less precise golfers, the 910H is the best option if you want to put one of these clubs in your bag. The trajectory, which you can adjust, is mid to high, and needless to say, the ball travels a mile. A mile. Performs like a champ out of any lie.

Technology: Like the drivers and fairway woods, the 910H affords users the chance to adjust their loft and lie independently of one another for optimal ballflight. (There are 16 loft/lie combinations.) Its progressive head sizes and CG locations create the optimum trajectory and spin for each loft.

Specs: 21_¡, Mitsubishi Rayon Kai’li Hybrid 80. Comes in four lofts: 17_¡, 19_¡, 21_¡ and 24_¡. $259.

For more information on all Titleist products, visit www.titleist.com.

We Tried It 2010

FT-IZ DRIVER
Featuring a radical triangular design (buh-bye square), this driver is dubbed by Callaway as the company’s longest and straightest driver ever.

Looks and Feel: It has fighter-jet good looks–aerodynamic, sleek, mean. It’s also a cinch to align. The face angle seemed to sit shut rather than square at address even though we tested a 10-degree model with a square face angle, but that’s likely a function of the shape as it rests on the turf. As for feel, it’s the first carbon-crowned driver that doesn’t feel like one at all. It has a tremendous pop at impact.

Performance: It’s definitely long, just like Callaway says. But, in our test, we found it was a lot easier to turn this over and hit a hook than it was to hit a slice. That is, a lot of our misses were pull hooks. We suspect that’s not a mistake, since the configuration of the head shape and internal weighting, in fact, combine to make this club easier to square up at impact than, say, a traditionally shaped head. That took some getting used to, but once we did, we fell in love. As for forgiveness on off-center hits, the FT-iZ demonstrated a lot of give. We rarely missed big, and when we did, it was our fault, not the driver’s.

Bottom Line: If you want a driver that has a new-age shape, awesome forgiveness and is an inherent slice-killer, the FT-iZ is a solid choice. We didn’t test a Tour version (with a one-degree open face), but we suspect that one would have cured our hooks in a jiffy. That said, the FT-iZ remains a top contender for a 2010 GT Tech Award.

DIABLO EDGE DRIVER
The new Diablo Edge is a four-piece, all-titanium design that, like the FT-iZ, is hell-bent on adding more distance to everyone’s drives.

Looks and Feel: Callaway is really making strides in bucking against traditional driver shapes and trying something different. The Diablo Edge is aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing, and both solid and missed hits feel pretty good. Our only criticism is of the S2H2 hosel configuration on the Standard model. We understand the point: Weight is removed from the hosel and redistributed in the clubhead. Then why affix a cheapish-looking ferrule on the short hosel? It takes away from the sexiness of the sleek titanium design. However, the Tour model, well, that has got to be one of the best-looking shapes (it has a traditional hosel) we’ve ever seen from Callaway. Booyah.

Performance: We only tested the Standard model, but our findings were impressive. The Diablo Edge produces a surprisingly penetrating ballflight, thanks to both a nine-degree loft and a square face angle (models above 10 degrees have one-degree closed faces). We saw a limited dispersion on our misses, and our solid bombs flew a long way, usually in the direction we wanted. In fact, we took a couple swats and tried to mis-hit and had trouble doing so–let that give you an idea of how forgiving this driver is. You may not always hit it straight (that’s up to your swing, not necessarily the driver), but you’ll definitely hit a lot of long drives with this club.

Bottom Line: A forgiving power-hitter. The shaft felt a little whippy, so if you opt for one, be sure you get fitted for the proper weight and flex.

DIABLO EDGE IRONS
Using a 360-degree, undercut-cavity design and a low center of gravity, the Diablo Edge irons are both long and very forgiving.

Looks and Feel: The Diablo Edge has two things going for it: a wide sole and an undercut channel, which basically means weight is pushed to the perimeter of the face. These attributes offer serious forgiveness and, when combined with a low CG, mean big distance, too. We were taken aback by the weird modified Tru-Bore hosel, though. Was it necessary to cut it out like that? We couldn’t help but wonder if that would cause some added friction in deep rough. Nevertheless, having the option to integrate a couple hybrids into the set mitigates any minor dislikes in the iron’s design.

Performance: We hit them high and straight, which for the higher handicapper/slower swinger will translate into bigger distance. Better players, and/or those who swing faster, might see a lot of ballooning shots, but that’s to be expected from an iron in this category. The white groove markings, as well as the vertical white stripes on the sides of the grooves make aligning the clubhead behind the ball very easy. So easy, that we didn’t even have to think about it.

Bottom Line: These irons are long and forgiving, especially in shots hit more toward the toe. Better players who want a more boring trajectory will prefer the Diablo Forged irons.

X SERIES JAWS
Designed by Roger Cleveland with input from Phil Mickelson, the Jaws wedges represent the latest in new wedge tech from Callaway Golf.

Looks and Feel: Can someone please pass the butter? These wedges are sharp and smooth–two traits of great wedge design. With many wedges using a cast design, we can’t help but feel the love for forged carbon steel. It has a soft feel that helps make you feel more relaxed over your chips. The MACK Daddy grooves are as aggressive as can be under the new rules, and the C-Grind sole
basically reduces turf contact to a small area on the center-bottom of the sole. As for the two finish options, we liked the Milky Chrome finish, but we loved the Dark Vintage finish.

Performance: We don’t try to fake it. How a wedge performs is highly contingent on the skill of the golfer using it. That said, we took our limited skills and found these wedges to perform beautifully. We liked the compact shape–it seemed to make hitting pitches and chips from the rough easier. We also liked the open-face capabilities. That is, when we open the face, the leading edge doesn’t come way up off the ground.

Bottom Line: The best-looking wedge we’ve seen from Callaway. Better players will like it more than amateurs, mainly because they’re able to do more with it.

The Replacements

How To Hit A Hybrid
If you’re supposed to hit down on the ball with your irons and slightly up on the ball with your woods, what in the world do you do with a hybrid club?

David Glod, president of Tour Edge Golf, says that the key to swinging a hybrid correctly is to look at what club(s) the hybrid has replaced. “Because most hybrids are designed to be iron replacements, we advise golfers to swing them like they would their middle irons.”

As such, remember that it’s not necessary to try and scoop the ball upward (as many feel they have to do with low-lofted irons). Instead, allow the low and deep CG to work its magic and launch the ball at a high and optimal angle. The trick? Don’t be afraid to swing down and through as you would with a mid- or long iron.

If you use a hybrid off the tee or in the middle of a round, take at least four practice swings to adjust to the different weight and feel of the club, particularly when you’ve been hitting woods for consecutive holes. Tee up the ball higher than you would a normal iron, which makes it easier to achieve square contact. Finally, swing with a moderate tempo and remember to hit down on the ball. As for those long irons? Kiss ’em goodbye!

Biased Base. The new Callaway Fusion FT-Hybrids feature a permanent draw, neutral or fade bias to help players improve their accuracy and shot-shape patterns. The center of gravity is either in the middle or toward the heel or toe, helping to offset the effects of off-center strikes. Also cool from Callaway is the bore-through shaft technology, which removes weight from the hosel and accentuates the effect of perimeter weighting along the trail end of the club.

Iron Shape. The popular line of hybrids from Tour Edge resembles irons more than fairway woods, making them an exceptional choice for golfers who prefer hitting irons rather than high-lofted fairway woods. But don’t be fooled. Despite the iron-inspired shape, these hybrids feature ample perimeter weighting and a lowered center of gravity for higher shots that produce the needed spin required to get the ball to land softly on the green.

Fairway Wood Shape. The 3DX hybrids from Nickent trend more toward a fairway wood shape for golfers who appreciate a low-profile, fairway wood appearance. Some claim the wood-like models afford greater shotmaking capabilities, but that’s not to say this style of hybrid isn’t forgiving as well. The long, flat sole design helps position a majority of weight low and deep in the clubhead, resulting in a high trajectory with ample spin for better control._Ê

Adjustable Weighting. Some models such as the new TaylorMade Rescue Dual feature removable weight cartridges that allow for customized performance. Players can manipulate weight to favor a draw or fade, hook or slice, all with a simple click of a torque wrench. Typically, a draw bias will promote a lower trajectory than a fade bias, allowing golfers to adjust to different playing conditions as well as course demands and swing styles._Ê

Composite Crown. Composite crown technology has already jumped from drivers to fairway woods, and with the help of the new hybrids from Yonex, it looks like the trend is here to stay in hybrid clubs. Having a composite crown enables more weight to be placed lower and deeper in the clubhead, helping golfers get the ball in the air faster with plenty of spin to promote softer landings. Look for this trend to really catch on in the next couple of years._Ê

Hybrid Shafts. Don’t neglect the all-important shaft! New hybrid shafts are all the rage, with many of the leading driver shaft manufacturers unveiling their own special hybrid renditions. The Graphite Design YS-Hybrid Type II, Fujikura Fit-On E 300 Series, Aldila NV Hybrid, Grafalloy ProLaunch HY and UST Proforce V2 Hybrid graphite shafts all feature innovative technologies designed to cater to a variety of demands and playing characteristics. Before you buy a new hybrid, make sure you have the right shaft flex, weight and kickpoint for your game. Be assured a premium shaft can make a big difference in how well a hybrid performs.

Adams IDEA a2/a2 OS
www.adamsgolf.com
$170 ($200 graphite)

Adams IDEA a2/a2 OS The Adams IDEA a2 (pictured) features a smaller, Tour-like size and shape, low CG, high MOI and produces slightly less spin than many competitive hybrids. Due to these design features, the a2 is geared toward those with higher swing speeds and more accomplished golfers in general. In contrast, the a2 OS features a true game-improvement design with a generous amount of offset and a low and deep CG placement.
Lofts: IDEA a2–16_¡, 18_¡, 20_¡, 23_¡; IDEA a2 OS–17_¡, 19_¡, 23_¡ (available LH)

Bridgestone J33
www.bridgestonegolf.com
$249

Bridgestone J33 Made from responsive stainless steel, the J33
utility woods feature an elastomer compound insert within each clubhead to both deaden unwanted vibration and create a more efficient transfer of energy at impact. In addition, a tungsten weight in the sole of each club effectively lowers the CG to make getting the ball airborne easier.
Lofts: 15_¡, 18_¡, 21_¡ (no LH)

Callaway Fusion FT-Hybrid
www.callawaygolf.com
$250 ($275 graphite)

Callaway Fusion FT-Hybrid Introducing the FT-Hybrid, which features a stainless-steel face and body and a lightweight carbon-composite crown that repositions weight to lower and deeper areas of the clubhead. Like the FT-3 Driver, the FT-Hybrid utilizes Callaway’s OptiFit system, which allows golfers to choose between CG locations that fit their swings–draw for those who fight a slice and neutral for those who fight a hook.
Lofts: 14_¡, 17_¡, 20_¡, 23_¡, 26_¡ (available LH)

Dunlop LoCo Dart
www.dunlopsportsonline.com
$129

Dunlop Loco Dart Carbon crowns are rare in hybrids, but worthwhile when considering the strong performance of the new LoCo Dart hybrid. Better yet, this hybrid has adjustable weights in two sole ports for customized trajectory and a Harrison 3.5 D Dart Graphite shaft for exceptional distance.
Lofts: 18_¡, 22_¡ (available LH)

Hippo XXL
www.hippo-golf.com
$69

Hippo XXL The new XXL utility clubs from Hippo Golf feature twin weight plugs in the rear section of the clubhead for customizable trajectories. The low-profile design helps to lower the CG, resulting in a utility club that promotes high-flying and high-spinning golf shots from both the turf and from the tee. Tack on a proprietary graphite shaft and the XXL is an outstanding value club that doesn’t skimp on technology._Ê
Lofts: 18_¡, 21_¡, 24_¡, 27_¡ (no LH)

Innovex RLS
www.innovexgolf.com
$89

Innovex RLS In case you haven’t heard of Innovex, be on the lookout as the company’s newest line of hybrids is quickly becoming popular. Made of durable 15-5 stainless steel, the RLS hybrids feature the kind of attributes any golfer could want. It starts with a lowered CG, a high MOI, a widened sole and a smooth design that makes adjusting from an iron to a hybrid shape a piece of cake. No need for a long iron in the bag with these sure-fire replacements.
Lofts: 18_¡, 22_¡, 27_¡ (no LH)

Izzo Zwood
www.izzo.com
$179

Izzo Zwood No, Izzo isn’t just a bag strap company. The new line of Zwoods is an inventive and unique approach to hybrids, helping golfers not only replace fairway woods and irons, but drivers as well. Golfers need only expect longer and higher tee and fairway shots, thanks to a carbon crown and Intelligent Engineering technology._Ê
Lofts: 12.5_¡, 16_¡, 20_¡, 24_¡, 28_¡ (available LH)

Macgregor NVG2
www.macgregorgolf.com
$160 ($180 graphite)

Macgregor NVG2 MacGregor’s proprietary plasma-welding technique allows for a Cup Face 360_¡ design that removes any welds from the clubface and increases strength as well as the size of the effective hitting area. A proprietary Fujikura Triple Action shaft helps increase clubhead speed for a wide range of golfers, even those with slower swing speeds. This is clearly MacGregor’s most advanced hybrid to date.
Lofts: 17_¡, 20_¡, 23_¡, 26_¡ (available LH)

Nickent 3DX DC
www.nickentgolf.com
$199

Nickent 3DX DC Through the application of two tungsten-polymer fused inserts, approximately 40 grams of weight was moved down and back in the head to optimize CG for greater forgiveness and a higher spin rate. The finished product is a powerful hybrid with excellent control.
Lofts: 14_¡, 15.5_¡, 17_¡, 18.5_¡, 20_¡, 21.5_¡, 23_¡, 24.5_¡, 26_¡ (available LH)

Nike Golf Slingshot Hybrid
www.nikegolf.com
$179 ($199 graphite)

Nike Slingshot Slingshot Hybrids feature a low CG location due to a carbon crown and Nike Golf’s innovative Slingback design, similar to that used in the Slingshot irons. According to Nike Golf, these two elements reposition approximately 70% of the clubhead mass below the equator of the ball, making it that much easier for golfers to get the ball airborne on a consistent basis._Ê
Lofts: 17_¡, 20_¡, 23_¡ (available LH)

Perfect Club 347
www.theperfectclub.com
$129

Perfect Club 347 The popular Perfect Clubs seem to grow in number every year, and in 2006 are joined by the 347, which is the most hybrid-like offering in the bunch. An easy-to-hit replacement for your 3- or 4-iron or 7-wood, the 347 is designed with a low CG and a specially engineered shaft by Grafalloy to ensure high launch and longer flight. An offset hosel should help tame your slice. Don’t miss the full line of easy-to-hit Perfect Clubs available online at the company’s Website.
Lofts: 21_¡ (available LH)

Ping G5
www.pinggolf.com
$200

Ping G5 The G5 line of hybrids features a 455 steel face that’s machined and robotically plasma-welded, a technique that allowed PING engineers to reposition a significant amount of weight toward the sole to optimize spin rates and launch angles. A sloped crown and compact head design help lower and deepen the CG location and improve playability.
Lofts: 16_¡, 19_¡, 22_¡, 25_¡ (available LH)

Precept EZU
www.preceptgolf.com
$149

Precept EXU Designed for mid- to high-handicap golfers looking for an easy-to-hit alternative to long irons, the EZU utility woods feature a low-profile clubhead with increased offset and a low and deep CG location. Standard features of the EZU include a proprietary Aldila graphite shaft and Winn V17 grip. The EZU can comfortably replace 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-irons, making it both extremely versatile and appealing for the recreational golfer.
Lofts: 18_¡, 21_¡, 25_¡, 30_¡ (no LH)

Purespin Diamond Face
www.purespinsports.com
$99

Purespin Diamond Face The Diamond Face hybrid from PureSpin is the ideal mid- to long-iron replacement for players seeking both added control and a higher ballflight. The Diamond Face provides excellent control and added spin, while the redesigned head configuration has a lower and deeper CG.
Lofts: 19_¡, 22_¡ (no LH)

Srixon AD
www.srixon.com
$175

Srixon AD The new AD is a well-constructed and -engineered hybrid. This highly versatile club features an
ultra-thin maraging-steel clubface with a high COR for increased ball speed and distance, as well as tungsten-nickel weighting that lowers the CG to produce high, soft shots. Srixon is one of the few companies also successful in the golf ball market, so if you like the AD hybrid, check out the new AD333 golf ball.
Lofts: 18_¡, 21_¡, 24_¡ (no LH)

TaylorMade Rescue Dual
www.taylormadegolf.com
$235 ($275 graphite)

Taylormade Rescue Dual The new Rescue Dual features two TLC ports positioned low in the back of the clubhead near the heel and toe, and the Rescue Dual’s CG position can be customized by adjusting the accompanying TLC weight cartridges. Because most golfers miss to the right, the club also features a fixed weight near the heel to promote more draw-inducing rotation through impact. The V-shaped sole is designed to minimize resistance through impact. Also available in the TP (Tour Preferred) model.
Lofts: 16_¡, 19_¡, 22_¡, 25_¡ (available LH)

Tour Edge Exotics
www.touredge.com
$235 ($275 graphite)

Tour Edge Exotics Built with a lightweight beta-titanium cupface that’s Combo-Brazed to a heavier Hyper-Steel body, the Exotics Iron-Wood provides the maximum allowable .830 COR for impressive distance. Each Iron-Wood comes with two six-gram weight screws and an optional kit that provides four additional weight screws for enhanced customization.
Lofts: 18_¡, 21_¡, 24_¡ (available LH)

Vulcan Sniper
www.vulcangolf.com
$129

Vulcan Sniper The new Sniper from Vulcan Golf is loaded with cool stuff. The carbon crown helps lower the CG for a higher trajectory and the shallow face makes it easier to hit from tight lies off the fairway or in heavy rough. Also, the cambered sole facilitates hitting the ball in the center of the clubface. The new Aldila V-Tech graphite shaft is a great component as well, designed for the utmost in carry distance and clubhead stability through the impact zone.
Lofts: 17_¡, 20_¡, 23_¡ (no LH)

Wedgewood Gold IR Series
www.wedgewoodgolf.com
$129

Wedgewood Gold IR Series Combining the accuracy of long irons with the feel and power of fairway woods isn’t easy, but Wedgewood found a way. The Gold IR Series has a thick topline for more confidence and a low CG for a higher flight. The Nickel Flex graphite shaft has nickel in it for added power.
Lofts: 16_¡, 19_¡, 22_¡, 25_¡ (no LH)

Yonex Cyberstar XC
www.yonex.com
$229

The new Yonex Cyberstar XC hybrids are very attractive, most notably sporting a carbon crown for a lowered CG. However, it’s the cambered leading edge that may do all the work, preventing the club from digging into thick, difficult lies. With such great looks, this hybrid begs to be put into play. Also, don’t miss the full line of Cyberstar equipment, including the new Nanospeed driver used by Colin Montgomerie.
Lofts: 17_¡, 20_¡, 23_¡ (no LH)