Todays golfer what gear 2017 by gabriellachallis

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

What

Gear 2017

YOUR COMPLETE GOLF EQUIPMENT GUIDE

new season NEW GEAR now instore & online

PLUS

DOUBLE VALUE ON CLUBS TRADE-IN

Example: Normal trade-in value ÂŁ200 NOW ÂŁ400 TRADE-IN ANY CLUB TOWARDS ANY NEW CLUB* *excludes single wedges

Over 100 stores nationwide. Shop 24/7 at americangolf.co.uk Terms and conditions: Information correct at time of going to print. Subject to availability and whilst stocks last. Certain colours or products available online only and in selected stores. All images are a guide only. New product available on selected launch dates. Check with your local store before travelling. *Any club, excluding single wedges, can be traded in against any new clubs product. No trade-in against second hand product. Trade-in value cannot exceed purchase value of new product. No credit given. Trade-in one item against one item (a set of irons is one item). Full double trade-in terms at americangolf.co.uk/trade-in.

Srixon Z Star & Z Star XV Bonus Pack Balls (12+3) TaylorMade FlexTech Stand Bag Callaway Org 14 Cart Bag

Garmin Approach G30 GPS

ARE YOU READY FOR THE NEW SEASON? With all of the latest clothing & equipment available instore and online, there’s never been a better time to shop at American Golf. adidas powerband Boost BOA Shoe

adidas adipower Boost 3 Shoe

Ping Model Wears - Ping Drake Panelled Polo Shirt, Ping Kane Trouser & Ping Hughes Belt Under Armour Model Wears - UA Storm Sweater Fleece, UA Matchplay Taper Trouser & UA Headline Cap

ENTER OUR FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN A £200 GIFT CARD

Simply go to americangolf.co.uk/draw for your chance to win Closing date 30/05/17. Terms & conditions available online.

INSTORE

•

ONLINE

•

MOBILE

TO BE WON

What Gear 2017

Ultimate gear guide If you’re looking to buy any new golf equipment in 2017, you’ve come to the right place. Our annual What Gear guide has been an equipment bible for more than a decade; but this is our most comprehensive ever. It’s 80 pages and features more products, in more categories and more buying tips than ever before. We’re proud to have American Golf as our presenting partner, this year allowing us to expand What Gear. It means that for the 10 product categories (see contents), we have three elements: ● A showcase, featuring 10 of our favourite

products, together with the price you’ll find them for at American Golf. ● A buying guide, from two of American Golf’s qualified PGA professionals – Matt Nicolle, from the Monument store, and Adrian Saxton, from the Derby store. ● The listings, incorporating every product on sale with specs, recommended retail prices and other useful information. Of course, this is just the first step if you’re in the market for any new kit. You’ll need to do more research – so head to www.todaysgolfer.co.uk for reviews of all of the gear here and our special Top Gear section, in asssociation with American Golf, in which we carry out a comparison test on all the best clubs on sale this year.

Simon Daddow Equipment Editor, Today’s Golfer

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

FEAT OVERURES BITS 400 O KIT! F

Media House, Lynchwood, Peterborough Business Park, Peterborough, PE2 6EA. Tel 01733 468000 EDITORIAL Editor Chris Jones Equipment Editor Simon Daddow Head of Publishing Richard Browne Senior Production Editor Rob Jerram Art Editor Mal Bailey Special thanks to Chris Bertram (production) Maya Stigner (design) ADVERTISING Commercial Director Donna Harris Commercial Manager Conor Lenaghan Key Account Manager Ben Peck SUBSCRIPTIONS Visit greatmagazines.co.uk/TG, call 01858 438884 (overseas +44 1858 438884) or e-mail bauer@subscription.co.uk Calls will cost no more than 5 pence per minute from a BT landline. Calls from mobile providers and other networks may vary. All phone lines are open 8am-9.30pm Monday to Friday; Saturdays 8am-4pm.

Member of Audit Bureau of Circulation

Inside... 6 Drivers

14 Fairways

The newfor-2017 drivers feature some of the most technically advanced clubs ever made

There’s more choice than ever, including multiple adjustability options, head shapes and lofts

22 Hybrids

30 Irons

The go-to choice for 200-yard+ second shots and short par 4s... but how do you pick the best for your game? Find out

Forged or cast? Better player, game improver or super game improver? We’ve got them all so you can make a choice

40 Wedges

46 Putters

Want to get up and down more often (who doesn’t)? These clubs are here to help

How the latest head and face technology can help hole more putts – and shoot lower scores this weekend

54 Balls

62 Shoes

From premium tour balls to distance bargains and everything in between, there’s a huge array to choose from

Whether you want spiked, spikeless, stable or mobile, here’s all the options, with prices and specs, in one place

68 Trolleys

74 DMDs

There’s never been a wider choice for all budgets when it comes to electric and push models

From lasers to watches, micro GPSs to full size handhelds, here’s everything you need to know

What Gear 2017 Drivers

Big tech Drivers have never been more advanced than the ones on sale today

oday’s drivers are the pinnacle of golf club engineering. They’re the poster boys for the big brands, who’ve spent years developing the tech you see here. Titanium heads and simple adjustability has been replaced by complex carbon-fibre constructions and more ways to change launch, flight and spin than ever before. The choice might be a bit bewildering – but trying your favoured models on a launch monitor is great fun.

£429

Callaway GBB Epic Sub Zero Callaway designed the Epic Sub Zero as a powerful, low-spinning driver that would be popular among its tour players. But it’s so easy to hit, Callaway says it is the most forgiving pro-style driver they’ve ever made. Titanium bars behind the face help increase ball speed.

6 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

£429

£429.99

£329.99

Callaway GBB Epic

TaylorMade M1

TaylorMade M2

A sophisticated titanium/carbon body and two titanium bars behind the face stiffen the entire structure. An adjustable weight track lets you fine-tune the ball flight.

TaylorMade’s new M1 may bear the same name as the original, but it has been re-engineered from the ground up for extra forgiveness and more personalisation.

M2 is all about distance and forgiveness, so its construction method means no valuable weight is taken up creating weight tracks and tons of adjustability. Available in a draw version, too.

£299.99

£279

£249.99

Ping G

Cobra King F7

Callaway XR 16

A dragonfly crown removes inefficient weight and repositions it, to lower and deepen the CG. Turbulators, a Vortec Shredder and an aerodynamic head shape improve speed.

By updating the F7 with a new Textreme (carbon fibre) crown Cobra says they’ve saved 20% more weight over the F6, to influence forgiveness, spin and flight bias.

The XR proves aero tech is just as effective at higher swing speeds as it is at much slower tempos. Matching that speed with forgiveness is the key to its performance.

£249.99

£349

£149

Wilson Staff D300

Mizuno JPX900

Benross HTX Compressor

The head is significantly lighter than most drivers and it’s teamed up with a very light shaft to deliver a dainty overall weight. “Micro Vortex Generators” aid aerodynamics.

Mizuno says the JPX900 takes adjustability to new levels via three weight tracks on the sole, which can be positioned to create a draw, fade or neutral shot bias.

A three-piece, 6-4 titanium construction provides exceptional feel and acoustics. The rearward CG and high MOI result in high launch and forgiveness. TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 7

What Gear 2017 Drivers MATT NICOLLE AMERICAN GOLF PRO MONUMENT STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘You’re missing a trick – and yards – if you don’t get fitted’ There’s so much adjustability on offer you need to tune it

echnology has taken a leap forward in the drivers launched this year. Jail bars, carbon weight tracks and app connectivity weren’t topics of conversation a few years ago, but they’re all in use now. So before you splash out on a new model, we want to ensure you know your MOI from your CG, your launch adjustability from your face angle adjustability.

SHOT BIAS ADJUSTABILITY Sliding or interchangeable weights allow you to create a draw, neutral or fade bias, which tailors the driver to your swing. A draw bias could help counteract a natural slice and mean you hit more fairways. Generally shot influence ranges from 12 to over 25.

CENTRE OF GRAVITY ADJUSTABILITY Each manufacturer has its own idea of where the centre of gravity should be to help you hit it further. Whether it’s high, low, close to the face or towards the back of the head, we can all gain ball speed and yards by tailoring the centre of gravity position to our game, because it helps optimise spin and launch. Our testing has revealed matching your impact position (high or low on the face) to a low or high CG can increase ball speed. It’s simple efficiency, really. By being in line with the ball’s impact position, transfer of energy has to be more efficient.

460cc HEAD OR SMALLER? After ultimate playability? Then a 460cc head is a no brainer. The extra size increases forgiveness, which means less energy is lost on off-centre hits. Better players and tour pros often go for smaller heads because they like the look and they want to “work” the ball which is easier with a smaller head and a lower moment of inertia. But even when Justin Rose had the choice

8 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

of 430 or 460cc, he went for the larger one’s extra forgiveness.

GET FITTED! Today’s drivers have so much adjustability you’re simply missing a trick – and yards – if you don’t get fitted, no matter how good you are. Looking at your numbers on a launch monitor lets you see which head and shaft settings/ combo are best for launch, forgiveness and distance. You’ll also see how much effect shot bias weighting, CG weights and the adjustable hosel have on your flight.

SPEED-BOOSTING TRICKS Aerodynamics play a huge part in modern driver construction. Hosel fins, turbulators, speed crowns and sub40g shafts mean some ranges are designed specifically to wring out every last drop of juice from your swing speed. If speed is an area you struggle with, a lightweight consider looking at ranges as their tech has the potential to add yards.

CARBON OR TITANIUM CRO CROWN? Titanium crowns weigh twice as much as a carbon equivalent, so to free up mass to use in creating sole weights

you have to use a carbon crown. That’s not to say titanium drivers aren’t as good – Ping’s best-selling G is titanium and it’s superb. But if your game demands maximum influence over launch, spin and flight carbon clubs are definitely worth a look.

ADJUSTABLE HOSELS Adjustable hosels go unnoticed nowadays as there’s so much tech elsewhere in the head. But they still bring a lot to the table when it comes to tuning a driver to your game. From altering loft by a degree or two to opening or closing a face angle, adjustable hosels make it a reality.

GET THE RIGHT LOFT We salute the benefits of the adjustable hosel, but it’s still the best idea to buy the right loft of driver you’re fitted for. A hosel can adjust the head to your desired loft, but many people don’t realise that doing this affects the face angle – less loft opens the face, more loft closes it.

GET THE RIGHT SHAFT One shaft doesn’t suit all. By giving you options ranging from lighter to heavier (sub 40g to over 70g) and from lower to higher launching, you get a set-up to max your game. The only way to find out is via a proper fitting.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

CLUB LENGTH

SWING ADJUSTABLE WEIGHT HOSEL?

HTX COMPRESSOR TYPE R

BENROSS

Most advanced Benross driver ever. The innovative vacuum casting process allows more complex internal geometry, optimising CG position for less spin and a penetrating flight. Improved Compressor Technology Response Channel boosts ball speeds.

benrossgolf.com Lofts: RH - 10.5˚ LH - no Stock shafts: Kuro Kage Black TiNi 50g

45.5”

HTX COMPRESSOR

BENROSS

The epitome of affordable excellence. A three piece, 6-4 titanium construction provides exceptional feel and acoustics. The rearward CG and high MOI result in high launch and forgiveness. Better Compressor Technology Response Channel increases ball speeds.

Lofts: RH - 10.5˚, 12˚, 14˚ LH - no Stock shafts: Kuro Kage Black TiNi 50g

45.5”

BENROSS

Lofts: RH - 10.5˚, 12˚, 14˚ LH - no Stock shafts: Kuro Kage Black TiNi 50g

45.5”

CALLAWAY

Lofts: RH - 9°, 10.5°, 13.5°HT

45.5”

CALLAWAY CALLAWAY

£149

Yes -1/+2 deg

£469

Lofts: RH - 9°, 10.5°, 13.5°HT

45.5”

Yes -1/+2 deg

£469

Stock shafts: Three premium stock options, as standard.

callawaygolf.com Lofts: RH - 9°, 10.5°, 13.5°.

44.5”, 45.5”

Yes -1/+2 deg

£369

Stock shafts: UST Recoil, Mitsubishi’s Diamana Red.

callawaygolf.com With input from aerodynamics specialists, it redefines what’s possible with clubhead speed and aerodynamics; resulting in Callaway’s fastest, most forgiving head shape ever. Lightweight RMOTO Face technology lifts ball speeds and forgiveness.

CALLAWAY

callawaygolf.com

XR 16 Lofts: RH - 9°, 10.5°, 13.5°

45.75”

Yes -1/+2 deg

£289

Stock shaft: Fujikura Speeder Evolution 565

XR 16 PRO

CALLAWAY

£149

Stock shafts: Four premium stock options, as standard.

BIG BERTHA FUSION Callaway’s most forgiving driver to date, with nearly 50% of the body made of Triaxial Carbon, which accounts for only 11% of the club’s overall weight. Has a high MOI shape akin to the FT-iz driver while RMOTO Face Technology ensures forgiveness – and yards.

callawaygolf.com

GREAT BIG BERTHA EPIC SUB ZERO First time forgiveness, ball speed and flight control have all been maximised in a driver, the Epic Sub Zero is fuelled by Jailbreak Technology. Has interchangeable 2g and 12g front and back weights to optimise spin rates and launch angle, for maximum distance.

£199

benrossgolf.com

GREAT BIG BERTHA EPIC Has revolutionary Jailbreak Technology – featuring two vertical titanium rods directly behind the face. A 460cc titanium and Triaxial Carbon composite head, the Epic is Callaway’s most complete, fully-adjustable performance driver ever.

Yes +/1.5 deg

benrossgolf.com

HTX COMPRESSOR GOLD Featuring all the technology of the HTX Compressor, it has been tailored to the needs of slower swing speeds. The head has been reengineered to reduce and redistribute weight, helping boost clubhead speed and as a result carry distance.

RRP

callawaygolf.com Input from aerospace engineers help make it Callaway’s fastest, most forgiving head shape ever. Has RMOTO Face technology while its low and deep centre of gravity make the 450cc XR Pro 16 a remarkably fast and forgiving driver for better players.

Lofts: RH - 9° and 10.5°

45.50”

Yes -1/+2 deg

£329

Stock shaft: Fujikura Evolution II TS 665.

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 9

What Gear 2017 Drivers MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

CLUB LENGTH

SWING ADJUSTABLE WEIGHT HOSEL?

KING F7

cobragolf.co.uk

COBRA

Integrated with Cobra Connect shot-tracking tech, it is Cobra’s largest oversized driver, delivering maximum playable distance with extreme forgiveness. An adjustable weight system, with three centre of gravity settings, provides optimum distance and trajectory.

Lofts: RH - 9-12 deg LH - yes

45.25”

Yes (from 9-12 deg)

cobragolf.co.uk

COBRA

Has Cobra Connect technology, but provides a more traditional head shape while delivering playable distance, unmatched feel and extreme forgiveness. An adjustable weight system, with three centre of gravity settings for optimum distance and trajectory.

Lofts: RH - 7-10 deg LH - yes

45.25”

Yes (from 8-11 deg)

£299

Stock shaft: Fujikura XLR8 61

KING LTD

COBRA

£279

Stock shaft: Fujikura Pro 60

KING F7+

cobragolf.co.uk Created with the best materials and technologies, the King Ltd is the longest and straightest driver that Cobra has ever created. Also available in a matte black version with Cobra Connect and a lower-loft Pro version.

Lofts: RH - 9-12 deg LH - no

Cobra’s largest oversized driver delivers maximum playable distance with extreme forgiveness.

Lofts: RH - 9-12 deg LH - yes

45”

45.25”

Yes (from 9-12 deg)

£349

Stock shaft: Aldila Rogue Black 60g

KING F7 TI

cobragolf.co.uk Yes (from 9-12 deg)

£229

COBRA

Stock shaft: Fujikura Pro 60

MAX

cobragolf.co.uk

COBRA

Cobra’s longest, easiest-to-hit driver, with a design that helps deliver a higher launch and a straighter ball flight. A large, low-profile 460cc head with a thin face and slight offset helps golfers with slower swing speeds play much more consistent golf.

Lofts: RH - 9.5/10.5/11.5 deg LH - 10.5 deg

45.5”

D3 - D0

MIZUNO

£199

golf.mizunoeurope.com Mizuno’s most adjustable driver ever. A newly configured multi-thickness face strengthened in key areas significantly boosts ball speeds. Adjustability via two 8g weights and three Fast Tracks in the sole. Quick Switch hosel allows change of loft or shaft in an instant.

Lofts: RH - 9.5˚ (12.5˚ ladies) LH - Yes

45”

Yes +/- 2 deg

£399

Stock shaft: Fujikura Speeder Evolution 2

JPX EZ

golf.mizunoeurope.com A high launching, low spinning driver that is adjustable. First introduced on Tour by Luke Donald at the 2015 BMW Championships, the JPX EZ changes everything with a simple three-weight system and offers forgiveness levels normal of non-adjustable models.

MIZUNO

Stock shaft: Matrix White Tie 55x4

JPX900

Lofts: RH - 10.5˚ (12.5˚ ladies) LH - yes

45.5”

Yes +/- 2 deg

£349

Stock shafts: Fujikura Six & Fujikura Orochi (custom-fit shaft options FOC)

PING

RRP

ping.com Crown turbulators in the 460cc head raise clubhead speed and ball velocity for longer drives. The new T9S face material is strong, lightweight and thin for even higher ball speeds. Trajectory Tuning Technology finetunes launch conditions using five settings.

10 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Lofts: RH - 9˚, 10.5˚ LH - yes Stock shafts: Alta 55, Tour 65, Tour 80

45.75”

Yes +/- 1 deg

£349

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk DETAILS MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

CLUB LENGTH

SWING ADJUSTABLE WEIGHT HOSEL?

G LS TEC

ping.com

PING

Uniquely combines low, stable spin with a high MOI for added distance with accuracy. Crown turbulators reduce aerodynamic drag to increase clubheed speed and ball velocity. Thin T9S titanium alloy face maximises deflection for more ball speed and distance.

Lofts: RH - 9˚, 10.5˚ LH - yes

45.75”

Yes +/- 1 deg

ping.com

PING

Engineered for players whose shots typically end up right of target. More weight towards the heel and lighter swing weights help steer the ball back to centre. Crown turbulators generate greater clubhead speed and ball velocity for long, accurate drives.

Lofts: RH - 10˚, 12˚ LH - yes

45.75”

Yes +/- 1 deg

ping.com

PING

Engineered specifically for women. A thinner T9S face matches lower swing speeds and produces higher ball speeds for more distance and optimal launch angle and spin. A 460cc titanium head has Ping’s iconic crown turbulators, and a lighter swingweight.

Lofts: RH - 11.5˚ LH - yes

44.75”

TAYLORMADE

£319

taylormadegolf.co.uk All-new multi-material construction saves weight, repositions CG and increases adjustability. Six-layer carbon crown with 9-1-1 skeletal titanium body saves weight. 43% more carbon and twice weight saving v M1. Lower CG, more moveable weight.

Lofts: RH - 8.5˚, 9.5˚, 10.5˚, 12˚ LH - yes (9.5˚, 10.5˚) Stock shafts: Fujikura Pro XLR8 56 (x s r a); Mitsubishi kuro kage silver dual-core tini 60 (x s r); Project X hzrdus yellow 65 (x s r)

45.5”

M1 440

Yes +/- 2 deg

£479

TAYLORMADE

Yes +/- 1 deg

Stock shafts: Ult 230 Lite, Ult 230 Ultra Lite

M1 460

Lofts: RH - 8.5˚, 9.5˚, 10.5˚, 12˚ LH - no Stock shafts: Fujikura Pro XLR8 56 (x s r a), Mitsubishi kuro kage silver dual-core tini 60 (x s r), Project x hzrdus yellow 65 (x s r)

45.5”

Yes +/- 2 deg

£479

taylormadegolf.co.uk Heavy back weight locates CG extremely low for speed, and further back for more forgiveness. Geocoustic Technology with a deeper, more active Speed Pocket. Multimaterial construction saves weight and repositions CG; six-layer carbon crown.

TAYLORMADE

£349

Stock shafts: Alta 55, Tour 65, Tour 80

G LE

Lofts: RH - 9.5˚, 10.5˚, 12˚ LH - yes (9.5˚, 10.5˚) Stock shafts: Fujikura Pro XLR8 56 (x, s, r, a), Fujikura Reax 45 (l)

45.75”

M2 D-Type

Yes +/- 2 deg

£369

taylormadegolf.co.uk Heavy back weight locates CG extremely low for speed, and towards the heel to help produce a draw. Geocoustic Technology with a deeper, more active speed pocket. Multimaterial construction saves weight and repositions CG; six-layer carbon crown.

TAYLORMADE

£349

Stock shafts: Alta 55, Tour 65, Tour 80

G SF TEC

Lofts: RH - 9.5˚, 10.5˚, 12˚ LH - yes (9.5˚, 10.5˚) Stock shafts: Matrix MFS5 white tie 55 (s r a); Matrix MFS5 white tie 45 (l)

45.75”

Yes +/- 2 deg

917 D2

TITLEIST

RRP

£369

titleist.co.uk Distance with forgiveness in a full 460cc pear profile. Features SureFit hosel and SureFit CG adjustability to provide the best possible fit for all golfers. Offers more forgiveness, a slightly higher launch and more spin versus 917D3.

Lofts: RH - 8.5˚, 9.5˚, 10.5˚, 12˚ LH - yes Stock shafts: Aldila Rogue MAX 65, Fujikura Speeder Pro TS 74, Mitsubishi Diamana Ltd Blue 60/ Ltd Red 50/Ltd Red 40 + custom

45”

Variable

Yes +1.5/-0.75 deg

£450

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 11

What Gear 2017 Drivers MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

CLUB LENGTH

SWING ADJUSTABLE WEIGHT HOSEL?

917 D3

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

Distance with workability in a traditional, Tour-inspired 440cc pear profile. Features a SureFit hosel and SureFit CG adjustability to provide the best possible fit for all. Offers more workability, a slightly lower launch and less spin versus 917D2.

Lofts: RH - 8.5˚, 9.5˚, 10.5˚ LH - yes Stock shafts: Aldila Rogue MAX 65, Fujikura Speeder Pro TS 74, Mitsubishi Diamana Ltd Blue 60 + many custom-fit options

45”

Variable

Yes +1.5/-0.75 deg

D300

WILSON

New for 2017, the lightest adjustable driver on the market with an interchangeable weight (Right Light Technology), allowing a faster swing with the same effort resulting in more distance. New Micro Vortex Generators and head shape reduce drag.

Lofts: RH - 9˚, 10.5˚, 13˚ LH - yes

46”

Yes +/- 1 deg

£279

Stock shafts: Matrix Speed Rulz A-Type

wilson.com The winning design from the Driver vs Driver TV show. The world’s most adjustable multipiece driver has two interchangeable sole plates and five adjustable weights. The 1:1 Visible Swing Active Technology improves ball striking. Boasts Fast Fit technology, too.

WILSON

£450

wilson.com

TRITON Lofts: RH - 9˚, 10.5˚, 12˚ LH - yes

45.75”

Yes +/- 1 deg

£349

Stock shafts: Aldila Rogue

FG TOUR F5

WILSON

RRP

wilson.com Fast Fit technology makes it one of golf’s fastest and lightest adjustable hosel systems. Six-way adjustable hosel sets ideal spin rate, launch angle and ball speed. Interchangeable weight low and close to the face reduces spin and maintains an optimal launch angle.

Lofts: RH - 9˚, 10.5˚ LH - yes

45.75”

Stock shafts: Mitsubishi Rayon Fubuki Z 50

TOP GEAR 2017 Need more info about the best clubs of the year? Go online for...

✔ Our Top 10 clubs & more ✔ Exclusive video reviews ✔ More details and pictures ✔ Buy-it-now links ✔ Designer Q&As

IT’S ALL AVAILABLE AT...

www.todaysgolfer.co.uk

Yes +2/- 1 deg

£299

save

£30 149.99

£119.99 Over 40,000 Courses

Bluetooth® Smart Connectivity

Hazards & Greenview

Water-resistant to 40m (5ATM)

NOW INSTORE & ONLINE

americangolf.co.uk/tomtom

What Gear 2017 Fairway woods

Hello, fairway Looking to hit more short grass off the tee? Look no further...

few years ago the humble fairway wood was the long lost cousin of the driver, but not any more. Clever tech like adjustable hosels and moving weights have filtered down into today’s woods, while some of it – such as speed pockets – was used with such success in the shorter clubs, it’s now common on the big sticks. Whether you want a new fairway to match a driver, to hit off the tee on that ultratight par 4 at your home club or knock it on in two on those longer holes, there’s something for everyone, and every pocket.

£199.99

TaylorMade M2 The new M2 has a shallower profile, a lighter fluted hosel, more flexible Speed Pocket, a six-layer carbon crown (like the driver) and a new “geocoustic” sole to improve the impact sound. TaylorMade says it all adds up to five yards of extra carry over the original M2 fairway.

14 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

£249

£249.99

£199.99

Callaway Epic/Epic Sub Zero

TaylorMade M1

Ping G

The Epic fairways don’t feature bars behind the face because it’s too shallow. But they do feature an ultra-light crown that means weight can be moved to where it helps most.

By repositioning a weight track (with a 25g sliding weight) further from the face, a Speed Pocket’s been added to the sole to help protect ball speed on off-centre hits.

A redesigned leading edge gets more face under the ball at impact, so it’s easier to get shots airborne. A new steel face increases ball speeds, a special treatment increases friction to lower spin.

£189

£249

£179.99

Cobra King F7

Mizuno JPX900

Callaway XR 16

By managing turf interaction it’s possible to lose less head speed at impact. Cobra’s new sole rails are said to add 2-3mph coming out of the turf than a conventional sole design.

A 15g sliding sole weight helps change your flight, an adjustable hosel allows loft to be changed by up to four degrees while a “Shockwave Sole” boosts ball speeds.

A bigger footprint let Callaway’s engineers create their highest MOI fairway wood. A thin crown, hotter Hyper Speed Cup Face and a more aerodynamic head deliver ball speed.

£99

£149

£149.99

Benross HTX Compressor

Cobra Max

Wilson Staff D300

An innovative Compressor Response Channel makes this fairway the most forgiving Benross has ever produced, by minimising ball speed loss on mishits.

Large head with a low CG and offset that combine for max forgiveness. Made from two types of stainless steel joined to the body via the same Speed Channel used in the driver.

Benefits from a new carpenter 455 steel face which has been designed to increase rebound speed and max out distance. There’s also “Micro Vortex Generators” on the crown. TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 15

What Gear 2017 Fairways ADRIAN SAXTON AMERICAN GOLF PRO DERBY STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘If your fairway doesn’t have a hot face, you’re giving up yards’ Six things to consider if you’re in the market for woods

f you play a long or particularly tight course, you probably use your fairway woods more than your driver. And that’s no bad thing. The latest technology in today’s woods has filtered down from their big brothers, so they’ve never been longer, or more forgiving.

HOT FACES AND SPEED POCKETS Since manufacturers realised how effective variable face thicknesses and speed pockets were at protecting ball speed on off-centre driver hits, the tech’s inevitably spread to fairways, too. If you’re looking at a fairway wood which doesn’t have either a “hot face” or “speed pocket” in the sole we reckon you’re likely to be giving up some valuable carry distance. Just remember the hotter your fairway wood becomes the closer it is likely to carry shots compared to your driver. Proper gapping is really important when it comes to hitting full tilt shots and plotting your way round the course.

ADJUSTABLE HOSELS Adjustability is great, but it does come at a cost. And the cost of creating a head with a hosel adaptor and wrench is much higher than a standard head. TaylorMade cleverly makes the M1 fairway with an adjustable hosel and sole weighting, while the M2 has neither – so the pair are pitched at two different price points. When you’re being fitted you get the choice of which route you want to go. But experience says if you can get the same performance from a glued hosel, that would be our preferred option.

ADJUSTABLE SOLE WEIGHTS Moveable weighting in the sole of a fairway can be really useful in helping you hit the shot shape you want. Lots of club golfers fight a fade on a

16 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

regular basis, so having the ability to set up a fairway with 12 to 15 yards of draw bias can be really helpful. Our testing’s also shown how positioning a sole weight behind your usual impact position can help increase ball speed, which can deliver worthwhile distance gains.

ONE, TWO OR MORE FAIRWAYS Nowadays you can dip in and out and buy very specific fairway wood lofts to suit your needs. And believe us, it really doesn’t matter how many fairway woods you carry. What is essential though is having a use for every single one, as there’s no point in carrying a club you really don’t like using. If you prefer hitting fairways over hybrids you’ll find 7 and 9-woods and even Heaven woods from Callaway. Vice versa if you prefer hitting hybrids over fairways there’s nothing stopping you filling the gaps between your driver and longest iron with hybrids. Play to your strengths.

HIGH LAUNCH OPTIONS High launch refers to 16.5° 3-woods and 21° 5-woods and they’re aimed at getting the modern ball (which spins less) airborne from the deck. We’ve heard a few stories about tour players going HL with their 3-woods because of how a modern fairway’s performance (with spring face and speed pocket tech) is too close to their driver. So by increasing loft they’ve ensured they don’t have two clubs that do exactly the same job. If you’re in the market for a fairway wood we’d say to look hard at the HL option, especially if you aren’t the most confident at launching fairways off the deck.

THINK ABOUT THE SHAFT Just because you need a particular type of shaft in a driver, it doesn’t mean you need the same model in your fairways. You tee your driver up and want to ideally hit it on the up to optimise ball speed, backspin and carry distance, which is completely different to trying to launch a fairway off the deck. Some manufacturers use different shafts in fairways to their drivers which speaks volumes about how a shaft needs to be optimised for each club in your bag.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ADJUSTABLE HOSEL?

DETAILS

HTX COMPRESSOR TYPE R

BENROSS

Benross’s first adjustable fairway wood features a compact, low-profile head and offers a low spin, penetrating ball flight through the same Thin Crown Technology in the HTX Compressor Type R driver. Adjustable from 13.5 to 16.5˚, it provides total flexbility for players looking to tailor their game to the conditions.

benrossgolf.com Lofts: RH - 3W 15˚(adjustable 13.5-16.5) LH - no

BENROSS

Lofts: RH - 15˚, 19˚ LH - no

BENROSS

benrossgolf.com Lofts: RH - 15˚, 19˚ LH - no

CALLAWAY

callawaygolf.com Lofts: RH - 3+, 3, 5, 7, 9 and HeavenWood

CALLAWAY

Lofts: RH - 13.5°, 15° and 18° LH - yes

CALLAWAY

Yes +2/-1 deg

£279

Stock shafts: Two highperformance options

callawaygolf.com Lofts: RH - 3, 5, 7 LH - yes

£229

Stock shafts: UST Recoil and Mitsubishi Diamana Red

callawaygolf.com A larger, more aerodynamic head shape to inspire confidence without compromising speed. Constructed with the company’s most lightweight crown and its hottest-ever Face Cup technology to deliver even more speed and yards, with sole-shaping designed to optimise turf interaction, a low CG and the category-leading MOI and COR.

CALLAWAY

£279

callawaygolf.com

XR 16 Lofts: RH - 3+, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9 and 11-wood LH - yes

£189

Stock shaft: Fukikura Speeder Evolution 565 FW

XR PRO 16

CALLAWAY

Yes +2/-1 deg

Stock shafts: Four highperformance options

BIG BERTHA FUSION Designed using breakthrough construction methods and space-age materials, they marry an aerospace-grade titanium exoskeleton, ‘Exo-Cage’, with an ultra-lightweight triaxial carbon crown and sole plates, to deliver dramatically higher forgiveness. Positioning more weight in the perimeter and far from the face also enhances acoustics and feel.

£99

Stock shaft: Kuro Kage Black TiNi 50g

GREAT BIG BERTHA EPIC SUB ZERO The new aero-elliptical head shape of Callaway’s Great Big Bertha Epic Sub Zero fairway is designed to improve airflow for faster swing speed, while the lightweight triaxial carbon crown frees up weight, helping to increase MOI and lower the CG for easy launch and extremely long carry. Removable weights in the sole let you fine-tune launch characteristics.

£99

Stock shaft: Kuro Kage Black TiNi 60g

GREAT BIG BERTHA EPIC Weight saved by the ultra-light triaxial carbon crown – 78% lighter than steel – is repositioned to increase MOI and lower the CG, creating easy launch and longer, straighter shots. In addition, it features Callaway’s fourth generation Hyper Speed Face Cup technology, which helps deliver faster ball speed across the face.

£119

benrossgolf.com

HTX COMPRESSOR GOLD Featuring the same heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel face and innovative Compressor Technology Response Channel as the HTX Compressor fairway, the HTX Compressor Gold also utilises a premium Kuro Kage Black TiNi A Flex shaft and reduced head weight to increase clubhead speed.

Yes +/1.5˚

Stock shaft: Kuro Kage Black TiNi 60g

HTX COMPRESSOR A heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel face and the innovative Compressor Technology Response Channel make the HTX Compressor fairway the most forgiving Benross has ever produced, by minimising ball speed loss on off-centre strikes. The rearward CG location promotes a high launch for increased carry distance.

RRP

callawaygolf.com Featuring a compact, aerodynamic head to appeal to better players, the Pro maintains the familiar XR features of being ‘fast and forgiving’. Built with high MOI offering forgiveness and confidence-inspiring shaping, its Face Cup technology is hotter and more forgiving than ever before, and an ultralightweight crown to deliver ultra-high ball speeds.

Lofts: RH - 14°, 16° and 18° LH - yes

£199

Stock shaft: Fukikura Speeder Evolution 565 FW

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 17

What Gear 2017 Fairways MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

ADJUSTABLE HOSEL?

KING F7

cobragolf.co.uk

COBRA

Everything you asked for in a driver is now available in a fairway. Adjustable centre of gravity weights dial in distance and ball flight control, all with incredible forgiveness either from the tee or the fairway. The eightposition hosel sleeve allows three degrees of loft change and three draw settings.

Lofts: RH - 3-4 W (13-16 deg), 5-6W (17-20 deg), 7-8 (21-24 deg) LH - yes

Yes 8 settings

cobragolf.co.uk King Ltd Fairway offers a compact head shape with Zero CG making this fairway both very long and very forgiving. Your chance to become the King of the fairway. Also in a Black version.

COBRA

£189

Stock shaft: Fujikiura Pro 65

KING LTD Lofts: RH - 3-4 (13-16 deg) 4-5 (16-19 deg) LH - yes

Yes 8 settings

£229

Stock shaft: Aldila Rogue Black 70g

COBRA

MAX

cobragolf.co.uk The Max is Cobra’s longest, easiest to hit fairway featuring a design that helps deliver an easy, high launch and a straighter ball flight. A large, low profile offset head with a thin face helps golfers with slower swing speeds play much more consistently.

Lofts: RH - 3W, 5W, 7W LH - yes

With a larger, confidence-inspiring footprint the JPX EZ woods produce a high, softer landing flight – optimising carry distance for all but the most powerful ball strikers.

Lofts: RH - 3W (15°), 5W (18°), 7W (21°) LH - 3W, 5W

£149

Stock shaft: Matrix White Tie 60x4

JPX EZ

MIZUNO

golf.mizunoeurope.com No

£179

Stock shafts: Fujikura Six, Fujikura Orochi

JPX EZ (ADJUSTABLE)

MIZUNO

The JPX EZ fairways are effortlessly easy to use, thanks to a Flex Crown design. Extending the Shockwave sole around the clubhead adds weight to the heel and toe for greater forgiveness and a lower CG promotes a nice easy launch. Available with four degrees of adjustability.

golf.mizunoeurope.com Lofts: RH - 3W (15°), 5W (18°), 7W (21°) LH - 3W & 5W

£219

golf.mizunoeurope.com Closes the distance gap on your driver. The JPX900 uses Mizuno’s expanding Shockwave Sole to produce prodigious ball speeds, with a centrally located, single sliding weight to make it playable for a surprising breadth of swing types.

MIZUNO

Yes +/- 2 deg

Stock shafts: Fujikura Six, Fujikura Orochi

JPX 900 Lofts: RH - 3W (15°), 5W (18°), 7W (21°) LH - 3W & 5W

Yes +/- 2 deg

£279

Stock shaft: Fujikura Speeder Evolution 2

ping.com

PING

The new G fairways utilise a lower leading edge that sits closer to the ground, making it easier to get the ball airborne. High ball speeds are achieved through a thinner, Carpenter 455 steel face which facilitates more flexing at impact, as well as a cascading sole design which produces more face bending for a large, springing effect.

Lofts: RH - 3W (14.5°), 5W (17.5°) & 7W (20.5°). G SF Tec 3W (16°) & 5W (19°). G Stretch 3 (13°) LH - yes Stock shafts: Alta 65, Tour 65, Tour 80, TFC 80F

Yes +/- 1 deg

G Le

PING

RRP

£220

ping.com The easy-to-launch G Le women’s fairway woods are engineered with a thin CarTech 455 face and a thinner crown design to maximise both ball speed and MOI for increased distance and forgiveness off the tee, as well as off the ground.

18 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Lofts: RH - 3W (19°), 5W (22.2˚), 7W (26°), 9W (30°) LH - yes Stock shafts: Ult 230 Lite, Ult 230 Ultra Lite

£185

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ADJUSTABLE HOSEL?

DETAILS

taylormadegolf.com

TAYLORMADE

Multi-material construction for low CG with adjustability. Sixlayer carbon crown, 450 stainless steel body, 25g tungsten weight, and c300 superalloy face. New open-channel Speed Pocket generates distance and forgiveness, as well as adding ball speed, lowers spin, and enlarges sweetspot. Redesigned sliding weight track with single 25g tungsten weight.

Lofts: RH - 3W (15˚), 3HL (17˚), 5W (19˚) LH - yes (3W, 5W) Stock shafts: Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Silver TiNi 70FW, Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Silver TiNi 60FW

M2 TAYLORMADE

Multi-material construction for low CG. Six-layer carbon crown, 450 stainless steel body, and 455 stainless face. Inverted Cone Technology in a fairway wood for the first time. Protects ball speeds across the entire clubface to produce a bigger sweetspot for more forgiveness. Increased flex delivers more ball speed on low-face shots.

TAYLORMADE

Yes +/- 2 deg

Lofts: RH - 3W (15˚), 3HL (16.5˚), 5W (18˚), 5HL (21˚), 7HL (24˚) LH - yes (3, 3HL, 5)

taylormadegolf.com Multi-material construction for low CG. Six-layer carbon crown, 450 stainless steel body, and 455 stainless face. Inverted Cone Technology in a fairway wood for the first time, protecting ball speed across the entire clubface to produce a bigger sweetspot for more forgiveness. CG location that is low but also more forward for workability.

Lofts: RH - 3W (15˚), 3HL (16.5˚) LH - yes

All-around playability with forgiveness and more distance in a larger profile fairway. Slightly more spin and higher launch versus 917F3.

Lofts: RH 13.5˚ 15˚ 16.5˚ 18˚ 21˚ LH - yes (15˚, 16.5˚, 18˚) Stock shafts: Aldila rogue max 75, Fujikura Speeder Pro TS 84, Mitsubishi Diamana Ltd White 80, Blue 70, Red 60, Red 50

£279

Stock shaft: MRC Kuro Kage TiNi 70FW

TITLEIST

titleist.co.uk Yes +1.5/0.75 deg

917F3

£280

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

Versatility with shot control and more distance in a compact profile fairway that better players prefer. Slightly less spin and lower launch versus 917F2.

Lofts: RH - 13.5˚, 15˚ LH - 15˚ Stock shafts: Aldila Rogue MAX 75, Fujikura Speeder Pro TS 84, Mitsubishi Diamana LTD Blue 70 + custom options

Yes +1.5/0.75 deg

FG TOUR F5

£280

wilson.com A six-way adjustable hosel delivers precise ball trajectory, plus an interchangeable weight placed low and close to the face cuts spin to maintain an optimal launch for maximum distance. Incorporates Green Means Go! Fast Fit technology and a Carpenter Custom 455 maraging stainless steel face insert influenced by Tour players.

WILSON STAFF

£229

Stock shaft: TM Reax 65, TM Reax 55, TM Reax 45

917F2

Lofts: RH - 13.5°, 15° & 17° LH - yes

Yes +/- 2˚

£199

Stock shaft: MRC Fubuki Z Series 65

D300

wilson.com New aerodynamic head featuring Micro Vortex Generators, along with with a Carpenter Custom 455 maraging stainless steel face insert creating a thin, flexible and responsive CT for increased ball speeds and distances. Right Light Technology offers ideal combination of weight and balance allowing a faster swing with same effort.

WILSON STAFF

£279

taylormadegolf.com

, M2 TOUR

Lofts: RH - 15°, 18° & 21° LH - no

£155

Stock shaft: Matrix Speed Rulz A-Type

D300 WOMENS

WILSON

RRP

wilson.com The perfect club for extra distance and forgiveness thanks to its new aerodynamic Micro Vortex Generators on the crown. Right Light Technology allows players to swing even faster with the same effort, delivering more distance. The Carpenter Custom 455 maraging stainless steel face maximises distance from the tee, fairway or rough.

Lofts: RH - 15˚, 18.5˚, 21.5˚ LH - no

£155

Stock shaft: UST Mamiya SL 45

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 19

YOUR BENEFITS 30 DAY SATISFACTION GUARANTEE MEMBER ONLY OFFERS FREE MEMBER TOURNAMENTS WIN INCREDIBLE PRIZES FREE PGA PRO ADVICE FREE AG COMMUNITY

FREE GOLF

As an American Golf Club member you’ll get three free rounds of golf per year, so you can try new courses and test your game. Three times a year we’ll email you a free round voucher with a huge range of courses to choose from.

Over 100 stores nationwide. Shop 24/7 at americangolf.co.uk

FREE JOIN TODAY

club

PLAY SAVE WIN club

americangolf.co.uk/club

Join the American Golf Community

americangolf.co.uk/club

INSTORE

•

ONLINE

•

MOBILE

What Gear 2017 Hybrids

Rescue plan Unless your name is Rory or Dustin, EVERY golfer should have one of these in the bag

ybrids are a godsend for the average golfer; just ask anyone who’s tried to hit a 3-iron off a damp fairway lie... Today’s hybrids are packed with technology to make it easier to get the ball flying high and landing softly on a distant green. Whether that’s Speed Pockets, oversized heads, springy faces or sole rails, they all add up to one thing – making the game easier.

£159

Cobra King F7 The F7 hybrid has a 455 stainless steel face which is lighter and thinner for faster ball speeds on offcentre hits. There’s a fixed sole weight to deliver a towering ball flight for maximum carry distance and all lie forgiveness and Baffler rails to glide through the turf.

22 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

£199.99

£159.99

£179.99

TaylorMade M1

TaylorMade M2

Callaway Steelhead XR

The first TaylorMade rescue to feature a sliding sole weight (27g), so you can now dial in a draw, neutral or fade bias. Its redesigned sole is said to offer greater playability, too.

TaylorMade’s first hybrid to feature the distinctive black and white crown cosmetics. A low-profile body matches the M2 fairway, and there’s a more flexible Speed Pocket.

Takes the proven shape of the Apex hybrid, and expands it with a larger front-to-back dimension, a lower CG, a larger blade length and a larger face. It all adds up to more forgiveness.

£149.99

£199

£179

Callaway XR 16 OS

Mizuno JPX900

Ping G Crossover

An excellent hybrid that delivers the extra ball speed and distance the majority of us need at the top end of our bags. Many golfers would be better off with a wide body hybrid like this.

Like the fairway, the hybrid boasts an energy-boosting Shockwave Sole, which ups ball speeds and lowers the centre of gravity for added playability from the short grass.

By combining the speed and forgiveness of a hybrid with the workability and control of an iron, Ping has really come up with a clever club that will appeal to lots of hybrid haters.

£179

£79

£129.99

Ping G

Benross HTX Compressor

Wilson Staff D300

The G’s wider body is particularly suited to golfers who sweep shots off the deck. We’ve found it’s exceptionally easy to hit consistently well.

Offers exceptional performance from even the worst lies. The rearward CG position promotes a high launch and helps to maximise stability at impact.

A thin, steel face insert boosts ball speed and “micro vortex generators” add speed. Bigger heads in the stronger lofts aid forgiveness; smaller heads in weaker lofts add precision.

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017

What Gear 2017 Hybrids MATT NICOLLE AMERICAN GOLF PRO MONUMENT STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘Technology helps maximise ball speed on off-centre hits’ Latest hybrids share many of the same ideas as drivers

ybrids have come a long way since TaylorMade first introduced its Rescue way back in the noughties. Lots of Tour players nowadays carry a hybrid with a loft somewhere between their lowest-lofted iron and highest-lofted fairway wood. Peek into the bag of the average club golfer and you’re likely to see one hybrid has multiplied to two or more to cover off the distance gaps between a 5-iron and their highest-lofted fairway wood. With so many different shapes, lofts and technologies to choose from how do you decide which suits you? We’re here to help.

LOFTS/GAPPING Picking the lofts of your hybrids is really important as it avoids having a couple of clubs that go almost exactly the same distance. Start by finding out the loft of the longest iron you’re confident hitting. It doesn’t matter if this is a 4, 5 or 6-iron, just make sure you don’t harbour any fear when you pull this club from the bag. Then note the loft of your highest-lofted wood and try to fill the gaps between with equally-spaced hybrids.

HEAD STYLE: WIDE BODY Hybrids have come so far there’s now three distinct body designs to choose from. The wider body typically suits those who sweep shots off the fairway. Because the body is wider, the centre of gravity is deeper, so shots tend to be hit a bit higher. And a wider body also means an increase in MOI, so this body shape tends to be less punishing on mishits.

HEAD STYLE: NARROW BODY Narrow-bodied hybrids are designed for those with an aggressive motion into the ball, so the turf interaction at impact is like hitting an iron. You hit the ball first, but then hit down into the turf just like an iron. A narrower body looks a bit more like an iron, too, and because

24 WHAT GE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

the centre of gravity is closer to the face it flies a little lower. A narrower body means a lower MOI which means off-centre hits lose a bit of ball speed and accuracy, so ideally you’ll be a little more consistent with your ball-striking.

HEAD STYLE: DRIVING IRON Driving irons have seen a resurgence over the last few years. Tour pros often put one in the bag at events like the Open, where a lower flight in windy conditions can really pay dividends. Typically the body construction is hollow, so extra weight can be positioned low to help get shots airborne. Driving irons tend to perform best in the hands of an experienced player who has a decent clubhead speed to launch shots off the fairway with such a low-lofted iron shape, but Ping’s wider Crossover (left) is an exception.

ADJUSTABLE OR GLUED HOSEL? Not every hybrid has an adjustable hosel. You might think what’s the point of adjustability in a hybrid anyway. Yes, an adjustable hosel only lets you switch lofts by a degree or two, but it’s really

useful if the hybrid you want is not available in the exact loft you need. Simply tune the loft by using the hosel adjustment to ensure you don’t have a couple of clubs that go similar distances.

SHAFTS There are hundreds of shafts to choose from. Some manufacturers want to sell you their stock shafts, others would rather fit you for a shaft that suits your game. Don’t be fooled into thinking the shaft that suits you in the driver is also your perfect match in the hybrid. We suggest getting fitted so you can analyse your data on a launch monitor. Only then can you understand the distance gaps between each of your hybrids and the longest iron/highest lofted fairway wood.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE TECH Weight tracks, Speed Pockets, compression channels and hot faces have filtered down from drivers into the latest hybrids, while Cobra’s Baffler rails help its hybrids and fairways glide through turf better. Much of this tech won’t help you hit it much further from the middle of the club, but it certainly helps maximise ball speed and carry distance on off-centre hits. TaylorMade’s new M1 is the first hybrid with sliding weights, so you can tailor the launch and spin rates to suit your own preferences.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ADJUSTABLE HOSEL?

DETAILS

HTX COMPRESSOR TYPE R

BENROSS

Benross’s first adjustable hybrid, the HTX Compressor Type R fairway features a compact head that contrasts to the HTX Compressor. Two loft options and +/- 1.5˚ adjustability allow the exacting player to customise their clubs to meet their needs.

benrossgolf.com Lofts: RH - 20˚, 24˚ LH - no

Yes +/- 1.5˚

BENROSS

benrossgolf.com Lofts: RH - 20˚, 23.5˚, 27˚, 32˚ LH - no

BENROSS

Lofts: RH - 20˚, 23.5˚, 27˚, 32˚ LH - no

CALLAWAY

Lofts: RH - 2H (18˚), 3H (20˚), 4H (23˚) and 5H (26˚) LH - yes

£189

Stock shafts: Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Black callawaygolf.com

Callaway’s R&D team has developed the XR OS Hybrid, with super-forgiving, high launching qualities aimed at game improvers. With higher lofts, more offset and a super-deep CG, compared with the standard model, the XR OS Hybrids are even more forgiving, making it supremely easy for midhigh handicap golfers to launch the ball from all conditions.

CALLAWAY

£89

Stock shaft: Kuro Kage Black A Flex

XR OS Lofts: RH - 3H (19˚), 4H (22˚), 5H (25˚), 6H (28˚) and 7H (31˚) LH - yes

£149

Stock shafts: Mitsubishi Fubuki AT

STEELHEAD XR

callawaygolf.com Incorporating Callaway’s Speed Step technology, designed with the assistance of aerospace experts, airflow has been improved to promote faster clubhead speed for added distance. In addition, the head is longer from heel to toe and deeper from front to back, with a deep-back CG, making the hybrid even more forgiving and easier to launch.

CALLAWAY

callawaygolf.com Complements the Apex and Apex Pro irons, it features a distinctive, Tour-inspired head shape and Callaway’s Forged Cup Face technology, delivering forgiveness and ultra-hot ball speed for extreme length. The CG is low to increase spin and promote a more iron-like flight, with a higher apex than traditional hybrids.

Lofts: RH - 3H (19˚), 4H (22˚), 5H (25˚), 6H (28˚) LH - No

£199

Stock shafts: Matrix Ozik Program F15

BIG BERTHA 0S

callawaygolf.com With a deeper body, a larger and faster face and next-gen Face Cup technology, the hybrids, with Optifit adjustability, offer enhanced forgiveness. Their larger and more flexible faces help in two ways; the added head size gives more contact area and this added flexibility pushes COR to the legal limit, promoting faster ball speeds for more distance.

CALLAWAY

£89

benrossgolf.com

APEX HYBRID

Lofts: RH - 3H (19˚), 4H (22˚), 5H (25˚), 6H (28˚), 7H (31˚) LH - yes

Yes +2/-1 deg

£229

Stock shafts: UST Mamiya Recoil ES 460

KING F7

COBRA

Stock shaft: Kuro Kage Black 70g

HTX COMPRESSOR GOLD Features a lighter headweight and premium Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Black A Flex shaft to help boost the clubhead speed of those with slower swing speeds. The Compressor Technology Response Channel and heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel face results in increased ball speeds and carry distance.

£99

Stock shaft: Kuro Kage Black 70g

HTX COMPRESSOR Featuring the same Compressor Technology Response Channel as the HTX Compressor and HTX Compressor Type R woods, the HTX Compressor hybrid offers exceptional performance from even the worst lies. The rearward CG position promotes a high launch and helps to maximise stability at impact.

RRP

cobragolf.co.uk Features progressive Baffler Dual Rail construction, designed with optimised height to ensure maximum performance benefits. The new design accommodates steeper rail heights to improve turf interaction and reduce digging. Longer woods have shallower rails to help glide through the turf.

Lofts: RH - 3-4W (13˚-16˚), 5-6W (17˚-20˚) 7-8 W (21˚-24˚) LH - yes Stock shafts: Fujikura Pro 75H

Yes 8 settings

£159

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 25

What Gear 2017 Hybrids MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

ADJUSTABLE HOSEL?

MAX

cobragolf.co.uk

COBRA

Features a Speed Channel face, low CG design, large address view profile, offset hosel structure and Straight Flight internal tech.

Lofts: RH - 3H (19˚), 4H (22˚) 5H (25˚), 6H (28˚), 7h (31˚) LH - yes

£129

Stock shafts: Matrix White Tie 60x4

KING UTILITY IRON Cobra’s first-ever adjustable long iron, gives you the choice of playing as a 2-iron or 3-iron. The new hollow body construction improves forgiveness and launch conditions.

cobragolf.co.uk Lofts: RH - 18˚-21˚ LH - yes

Yes 8 settings

£149 (s) £169 (g)

COBRA

Stock shafts: KBS C Taper Lite / Adila Rogue Black 85

MIZUNO

JPX900

golf.mizunoeurope.com Mizuno’s first adjustable hybrid has been built like a wood to play like an iron, sharing much of the same technology as the JPX900 fairway, with a Shockwave Sole and Quick Switch system that allows loft adjustments to a range of 4˚. The face sits more like an iron than previous hybrids, with the club set up a little shorter and flatter than before.

Lofts: RH - 16°, 19°, 22°, 25° LH - yes

The JPX EZ hybrids are recognisable by their larger, confidence-inspiring footprint and ability to produce high, softer landing flight – optimising carry distance for all but the most powerful ball strikers.

Lofts: RH - 16°, 19°, 22°, 25° LH - yes, 19˚, 22˚

MIZUNO

Stock shafts: Fujikura Six, Fujikura Orochi

Lofts: RH - 3i-7i LH - yes

£90 (s or g)

Stock shafts: Fujikura Orochi graphite or XP105, R300, S300 in steel

G CROSSOVER

ping.com A new category of club designed to provide the distance of a hybrid with the control and accuracy of an iron. The G Crossover utilises extreme toe weighting to provide hybirdlike foregiveness, while a tiered internal sole structure maximises face bending for faster ball speeds.

PING

£179

golf.mizunoeurope.com Direct long-iron replacements. With a wood-type hybrid profile, the JPX Fli-Hi is designed to create an effortless launch and steep landing angles on long approaches and demanding tee shots.

Lofts: RH - #3 (18°), #4 (21°), #5 (24°) LH - yes

£180

Stock shafts: Alta 70

G HYBRID

ping.com Incorporates Turbulator Technology for improved ball capture and inspiration at address, with additional improvements including the use of Carpenter 455 steel in order to save weight in the face and crown, as well as a rougher face for higher friction and reduced spin.

PING

£219

golf.mizunoeurope.com

JPX Fli-Hi

MIZUNO

Yes +/- 4˚

Stock shafts: Fujikura Pro

JPX EZ

Lofts: RH - #2 (17˚), #3 (19˚), #4 (22˚), #5 (26˚), #6 (30˚) LH - yes

£180

Stock shafts: Alta 70, Tour 90, TFC 80H

M1 TAYLORMADE

RRP

taylormadegolf.co.uk New sliding weight track with 27g weight gives complete L-to-R ball flight adjustability. Open-channel Speed Pocket adds ball speed to generate distance and increases the size of the sweetspot for more forgiveness. Small footprint and deep face for a look preferred by better players plus improved leading edge to promote consistent shot-making.

26 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Lofts: RH - #2 (17˚), #3 (19˚), #4 (21˚), #5 (24˚) LH - yes, #3 and #4 Stock shafts: Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Silver 80/70HY

Yes +/- 1.5 deg

£239

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ADJUSTABLE HOSEL?

DETAILS

taylormadegolf.co.uk

TAYLORMADE

Low-profile design with unmistakable ‘M’ cosmetic and stepped crown. Easier to play from the fairway with extra confidence when aligning the shot. Large, open-channel Speed Pocket for increased flex, delivering more distance and forgiveness on low-face shots – as well as extra yards by decreasing backspin. Notably superior sound and feel.

Lofts: #3 (19˚), #4 (22˚), #5 (25˚), #6 (28˚) LH - yes, #3 and #4

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

Superior technology for long-game performance. Highlaunching hybrids that fly further and land soft.

Lofts: RH - 19˚, 21˚, 23˚, 25˚, 27˚. LH - yes, 19˚, 21˚ Stock shafts: MRC Diamana D+ White 90 HY/S+ Blue 70 HY/M+ Red 60 HY/M+ Red 50 HY, Aldila Rogue Black 85H/Silver 85H

Yes +/- 1 deg

816H2

£215

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

Superior technology for long-game performance. Compact hybrids for iron-like control with more distance.

Lofts: RH - 19˚, 21˚, 23˚, 25˚ LH - custom-fit only Stock shafts: MRC Diamana D+ White 90 HY/S+ Blue 70 HY/M+ Red 60 HY/M+ Red 50 HY, Aldila Rogue Black 85H/Silver 85H

Yes +/- 1 deg

FG TOUR F5

£215

wilson.com Adjustable weighting placed low and close to the face optimises launch angle and spin from the tee, fairway or rough. Incorporates Green Means Go! Fast Fit technology – the fastest, easiest and lightest adjustable hosel system on the market featuring three unique lofts in standard and upright lie settings to match most common specs.

WILSON STAFF

£229

Stock shafts: TM Reax 55/45

816H1

Lofts: RH - 17˚, 20˚, 23˚ LH - yes

Yes +/- 1˚

£179

Stock shafts: MRC Fubuki Z80

D300 WILSON STAFF

RRP

wilson.com Progressive head design offers larger stronger lofted heads for more forgiveness on longer shots. Increased face curvature on stronger lofted heads for consistent impact and accuracy. Micro Vortex Generators on the clubhead reduce drag force and along with the Carpenter Custom 455 maraging stainless steel face deliver greater distances.

Lofts: RH - #2 (17˚), #3 (19˚), #4 (22˚), #5 (25˚) LH - yes

£139

Stock shafts: Matric Speed Rulz A-Type

Which club is for you? Watch reviews now at www.todaysgolfer.co.uk ✔ Thousands of club reviews, new and old ✔ Daily tips to help you play better golf ✔ Thousands of course reviews ✔ Breaking news, tour reports & interviews

THE E HOMOLF OF G MENT IP EQUNLINE O

✔ Major previews and behind-the-scenes updates TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 27

SMARTER CLUB. LONGER GAME.

High performance starts with innovative COBRA technology that allows you to hit the ball longer and straighter. Our new KING F7 Drivers feature a new multi-material head design with three distinct weight positions, giving you a choice of a higher, lower or draw bias ball ﬂight. And with new integrated COBRA CONNECT distance-tracking technology, you can now enjoy longer drives, share your success, and use data to play better golf. Ofﬁcial Equipment Partner of the PGA EuroPro Tour

COBRA. Doing things differently.

COBRAGOLF.CO.UK/KINGF7

DRIVE. SHARE. COMPARE.

What Gear 2017 Irons

Hot metal Clever tech and materials make the latest irons so much easier to hit here has never been a greater choice when it comes to irons. Fat ones, thin ones, forged ones, cast ones, speed slots, cup faces, single length, power holes... We’d urge anyone to get a shortlist to try, and then hit ones with your ideal shaft on a launch monitor.

£93-£108 (per club)

Mizuno JPX900 Mizuno says that thanks to three different head materials their new JPX900 irons cover off all bases, from game improver to tour player. The Hot Metal version combines distance and forgiveness; a forged model offers more feel; and a Tour version is for better ball-strikers.

30 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

£108 (per club)

£86 (per club)

£80 (per club)

TaylorMade M1

TaylorMade M2

Ping G

Brings together all the forgiveness and playability of last year’s M2 iron with vertical Speed Slots, a thinner Speed Pocket and a more compact head.

The head is 7% shallower than before to help lower the centre of gravity, while the top edge has slimmed by a third to improve the look at address. Now has Face Slots, too.

The G irons are heat treated to make the heads 40% stronger than the 17-4 SS Ping traditionally use in their irons. COR-Eye technology behind the face encourages more flex at impact.

£112 (per club)

£99.99 (per club)

£86 (per club)

Ping i200

Callaway Apex CF 16

Callaway Steelhead XR

Their faces are 30% thinner than the previous “i” model, which means a 7% jump in MOI and forgiveness. Beautiful “hydropearl” finish helps clear debris and water through impact.

Callaway took the cup face that’s so popular in their woods and applied it to a forged iron. Each head is quadruple forged from soft 1025 carbon steel for a softer feel.

Callaway has included all the latest ball speed, forgiveness and distance enhancing tech they’ve learnt over 20 years and rolled it into a shape like the original X-14 Steelheads.

£79 (per club)

£49.99 (per club)

£72 (per club)

Cobra King F7

Benross HTX Compressor

Wilson Staff D300

Cobra’s TECFLO construction optimises the performance of each iron, with new faces for added distance, precision and forgiveness and T.O.P. Technology for a lower CG.

A heat-treated face minimises ball speed loss from off-centre strikes. Internal polymer-filled Compression Cavity provides a softer feel. More heel/toe weight maximises stability

Power holes around the face remove mass which means 60g of extra weight is repositioned in toe and heel pods to maximise forgiveness on off-centre hits. TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 31

What Gear 2017 Irons ADRIAN SAXTON AMERICAN GOLF PRO DERBY STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘Don’t be sidetracked by an iron’s number; focus on its loft’ Irons are expensive, so make sure you get the best set

orged, cast, shafts, gapping, hollow bodies, wide soles... choosing an iron is not without decisions. But digest the information in this guide and you’ll be well-equipped to make an astute choice...

BLADES, CAVITIES OR SUPER GAME IMPROVEMENT? Irons come in a vast array of styles, all designed to suit different capabilities. Blades are aimed at the best ball-strikers, and offer little to no forgiveness when you don’t hit the centre of the bat. Cavity backs are aimed at those wanting a good degree of playability, so off-centre hits are less harshly punished. And super game improvement models tend to have wider soles, more offset and possibly hollow bodies to offer ultimate forgiveness and help launch shots into the air.

FORGED OR CAST? At some point in their construction both were molten metal. Forged irons come from billets of steel stamped under force into a clubhead shape. This stamping is said to align the structure more closely for, it’s claimed, better feel. Cast heads are created by molten steel poured into moulds. Casting technology has moved on massively and it’s said heat treatment after casting combined with the type of steel used today mean a cast head can feel very much like a forged.

SHOULD I WORRY ABOUT THE TYPE OF STEEL? Thinking changes from time to time about which is the best. What is more important is trying the irons to see how they feel for you.

SHOULD I CONSIDER THE SOLE DESIGN? Yes. Wider means more weight lower down, which helps get shots in the air. It also won’t dig as much at impact. Wider soles equal game improvement.

32 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Narrower soles tend to be found on better player irons. Some now have bevelled soles to allow the club to better interact with the turf and lose less energy at impact.

WHAT DOES OFFSET DO? Larger amounts of offset is usually found in game improvers. It sets the face behind the hosel, giving a little more time to square the face at impact. Better player irons generally have less offset so the leading edge is much more in line with the hosel. This makes the club a little easier to shape, as the centre of gravity is further forward, hence why shot shapers often love forged irons.

IS GAPPING IMPORTANT? Yes. While manufacturers ensure you have accurate gaps between each iron, you need to look at the gap between the longest iron you’re comfortable hitting and the next club you have, whether it be a fairway or hybrid. Don’t have a couple of clubs that go the same distance. And don’t be sidetracked by an iron’s number; it’s the loft, and how far you hit each loft, that you need to focus on to gauge your gapping properly, not how far you hit a 7-iron.

DO HOLLOW BODY IRONS WORK? They are growing in popularity, as they deliver the same sort of playability benefits as woods/hybrids. Typically the heads are made in a couple of pieces with the springy steel faces welded on. If you find hybrids easy to hit and want lots of playability and distance in one, a hollow body might be a good option.

WHY ARE SHAFTS NOW LIGHTWEIGHT? Steel iron shafts have got lighter. It wasn’t long ago Dynamic Gold shafts were the norm and they weigh over 120g. Standard stock steel shafts are now 80g-90g. Why? Manufacturers say if a shaft is lighter and you swing at the same speed the club is going to travel faster, increasing distance.

LIGHTER OR HEAVIER FOR MORE POWER? A new kinetic energy theory is seeping into whole ranges of golf clubs. Effectively it’s all about swinging at the same speed, but getting the head travelling quicker at impact. The thinking reduces shaft weight (or plays with its profile so weight is nearer the head) and increases head weight to allow golfers to gain extra clubhead speed even though they swing at the same pace.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

TYPE OF IRON

benrossgolf.com

HTX COMPRESSOR TYPE R

BENROSS

Builds upon the success of the HTX Type R. Engineers have refined aesthtics and feel while maintaining signature Type R-family performance levels. Innovative use of internal clubhead geometry and advanced polymer materials result in a softer feel.

Availability: 4-GW Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour 90 Stock graphite shaft: Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Black

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? No

BENROSS

Availability: 4-SW Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour 90 Stock graphite shaft: Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Black

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? No

BENROSS

Availability: 4-SW Stock steel shaft: n/a Stock graphite shaft: Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Black

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? No

Availability: 3-GW Stock steel shaft: True Temper Project X Stock graphite shaft: UST Mamiya Recoil

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

CALLAWAY

Based on feedback from Tour staff, 1025 mild carbon steel and advanced quadruple net forging create the soft feel better players prefer. Multi-material design optimises the centre of gravity for each club, with the longer irons (3-5) having more offset.

CALLAWAY

Precision engineered, incorporating Cup 360 technology to create Callaway’s first face cup in a forged players’ iron. Progressive offset, sole widths, CG height and notch weighting mix ball flight, playability, forgiveness and control. Solid ball speed across the face.

Availability: 3-SW Stock steel shaft: True Temper XP 95 Stock graphite shaft: UST Mamiya Recoil

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

£879 (s) £1,099 (g)

callawaygolf.com

APEX MB Classic muscleback shape demanded by the best players. High-perfomance, wide-spaced grooves built in to give more control and consistent spin. Callaway’s most premium forging, from 1020 carbon steel. Camber on the sole optimises turf interaction.

CALLAWAY

£879 (s) £1,099 (g)

callawaygolf.com

APEX CF 16

Availability: 2-SW Stock steel shaft: KBS V-Spec

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

£849 (s)

callawaygolf.com

APEX UT Traditional long iron shape incorporates a Carpenter 455 Forged Face Cup, which helps create higher ball speeds across the face. Also incorporates sole weighting that lowers CG, to make them easier to hit. Hollow body construction increases forgiveness.

CALLAWAY

£420 (g)

callawaygolf.com

APEX PRO 16

Availability: 18°, 21°, 24° Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour-V Stock graphite shaft: UST Recoil

Type of iron? Utility Cast or forged? Forged face cup Left-hand option? Yes

£169 (s) £199 (g)

callawaygolf.com

XR OS

CALLAWAY

£350 (s) £420 (g)

benrossgolf.com

HTX COMPRESOR GOLD Incorporates all the technology of the HTX Compressor, but has been tailored for those with slower swing speeds. A reduced head weight and premium Kuro Kage Black A Flex shaft results in increased clubhead speeds, helping to boost carry distance.

£420 (s) £490 (g)

benrossgolf.com

HTX COMPRESSOR A Heat Treated Face minimises ball speed loss from off-centre strikes. Internal polymerfilled Compression Cavity provides a softer feel. Redistribution of weight to the heel and toe maximises MOI and stability through impact. Provides terrific value.

RRP

Feature an oversized design and progressive lengths and lofts to help with longer distance from every club. A wider sole, 28% more than standard XR model, provides enhanced turf-interaction. A lower CG makes the irons easier to launch and more forgiving.

Availability: 4-PW Stock steel shaft: True Temper Speed Step 80 Stock graphite shaft: MRC Fubuki AT

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£599 (s) £749 (g)

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 33

What Gear 2017 Irons MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

TYPE OF IRON

callawaygolf.com

STEELHEAD XR

CALLAWAY

Combines iconic shaping and playability of the successful Steelhead X-14 with nextgeneration 360 Face Cup technology to allow the edges of the ultra-thin face to freely flex and release at impact with greater efficiency, adding extra ball speed.

Availability: 4-PW Stock steel shaft: True Temper XP 95 Stepless Stock graphite shaft: Matrix F15

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

CALLAWAY

Revolutionary clubhead construction – Exo-Cage – allows strategic repositioning of weight for more forgiveness. Strong and light Exo-Cage, along with next-generation 360 Face Cup – a unique Callaway technology – helps maximise ball speed and distance.

Availability: 4-PW Stock steel shaft: True Temper Speed Step 80 Stock graphite shaft: UST Recoil ES 460

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

COBRA

The softest feeling, most precise irons as demanded by our best golfers. These irons are the “ultimate scoring machines”. Fivestep forged technology, tungsten toe weighted. CNC-milled face and grooves.

Availability: 4-PW [4-6 (CB), 7-PW (MB)] Stock steel shaft: KBS C-Taper

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

Availability: 4-PW/5-PW Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour C-Taper Lite

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

COBRA COBRA

Availability: 4/5-PW Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour FLT Stock graphite shaft: Custom only

£749 (4-PW) £649 (5-PW)

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

cobragolf.co.uk

KING F7/F7 ONE Cobra’s commitment to innovation comes to life in the new King F7 high-performance distance irons – in two lengths: standard variable length, or the new One Length design. Both offer incredible distance and accuracy thanks to TECFLO construction.

COBRA

£699 (4-PW) £599 (5-PW)

cobragolf.co.uk

KING FORGED TOUR The ultimate players’ iron. Tour-proven performance with the soft feel and precision demanded by the best golfers.

£749 (s)

cobragolf.co.uk

KING FORGED TEC The feel and precision of a tour iron with forgiveness and distance. Key technologies: five-step forged technology, J15 face insert material, CNC-milled face and grooves, vibration management system, tungsten heel-toe weighted, premium chrome plating.

£849 (s) £1,099 (g)

cobragolf.co.uk

KING PRO CB/MB

Availability: 5-SW, 5-GW, 4-PW (One in 5-GW) Stock steel shaft: True Temper King F7 Stock graphite shaft: Fujikura Pro 63i

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£549 (s) £6499 (g)

cobragolf.co.uk

KING OVERSIZE Cobra’s largest iron face delivers their largest sweet zone ever for explosive distance across the entire face. The full hollow design delivers preferred sound and feel and lowers CG for improved consistency and distance.

COBRA

£649 (s) £829 (g)

callawaygolf.com

BIG BERTHA OS

Availability: 4-PW, 5-PW Stock steel shaft: True Temper XP 85 Stock graphite shaft: UST Recoil 460

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes (custom order only)

£699 (s) £799 (g)

cobragolf.co.uk

MAX

COBRA

RRP

Multiple construction technologies combine to create the ultimate progressive set of irons. Each club is optimised for performance to help the golfer hit more greens and hit it closer to the pin.

34 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Availability: 5-PW/5-SW/6-SW Stock steel shaft: FST Steel Stock graphite shaft: Matrix White Tie X4

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£349£399 (s) £409£479 (g)

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

TYPE OF IRON

RRP cobragolf.co.uk

KING FORGED ONE

COBRA

Ultimate players’ iron. Tour-proven performance with the soft feel and precision demanded by the best golfers. Comprised of constant-length irons re-engineered for 7-iron weighting. Optimised geometries offer consistent trajectory and distance gapping.

Availability: 4-GW/4-PW Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour FLT

MIZUNO

Grain Flow Forged from a single 1025E Pure Select mild carbon steel billet for enhanced feel, the MP-4 is the purest of forged muscle backs for shot-makers seeking the ultimate control over their ball flight.

Availability: 3-PW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Gold, R300, S300

MIZUNO

New type of players’ iron for tough modern courses. “Hollow flow” concept is ideal for long approaches to tight pins on firm greens. Better players will love the classic looks of Grain Flow Forged irons as well as the added forgiveness, distance and stopping power.

Availability: 1-6-iron Stock steel shaft: C-Taper Lite

MIZUNO

Purest, most solid feeling JPX iron in the line. Grain Flow Forged using 1025E mild carbon steel, it mixes authentic Mizuno feedback with advanced stability via weight pushed to it’s Power Frame’s extremities. An evolved look for a Mizuno player’s iron.

Availability: 3-PW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Gold AMT S300

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

£120 (s or g, per iron)

A mid-sized, one piece Grain Flow Forged iron that ends the normal trade-off between precision and distance. Produced from a stronger Boron infused steel billet, it has a milled pocket, new multi-thickness face and is more compact than its predecessor.

Availability: 4-GW Stock steel shaft: Project X LZ 5.5 Stock graphite shaft: Project X LZ

(£120 s or g, per iron)

Type of iron? Better player, game improvement Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Tes

(£120 s or g, per iron)

golf.mizunoeurope.com

JPX900 HOT METAL Combines offensive ball speeds with the adjustability of a forged iron, for the ultimate in customisable performance. The versatility of Chromoly 4140M gives both strength for a distance enhancing cup-face, and softness for a moveable, bendable neck.

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

golf.mizunoeurope.com

JPX900 FORGED

MIZUNO

£120 (s or g, per iron)

golf.mizunoeurope.com

JPX900 TOUR

MIZUNO

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

golf.mizunoeurope.com

MP-H5

Availability: 4-LW Stock steel shaft: Modus Tour 105 Stock graphite shaft: Project X LZ

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£105 (s or g, per iron)

golf.mizunoeurope.com

MP-25 A stunning Tour-inspired design with an injection of Boron for added ball speed and distance. The MP-25 is the first true high ball-speed iron, Grain Flow Forged for the feel and touch indispensable on tour. For tour players to low/mid handicaps.

MIZUNO

£849 (4-GW) £749 4-PW)

golf.mizunoeurope.com

MP-4

Availability: 3-PW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Golf & Project X

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

£120 (s or g, per iron)

golf.mizunoeurope.com

MP-5

MIZUNO

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

The MP-5 sits neatly between Mizuno’s classic blades and smaller player’s cavities. The Channel Back concept was refined through a harmonisation of CAD design and Japanese craftsmanship. Pro to low single figure handicaps recommended.

Availability: 3-PW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Gold

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

£120 (s or g, per iron)

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 35

What Gear 2017 Irons MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

TYPE OF IRON

JPX EZ FORGED

golf.mizunoeurope.com

MIZUNO

Injected with Boron, it leaps Mizuno Grain Flow Forged irons forward in distance and forgiveness. Enjoy #nothingfeelslikamizuno moments without being heavily penalised for a miss-hit. Ideal for mid/high handicaps or professionals who don’t like to practice.

Availability: 4-PW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Gold, XP95, Orochi

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

JPX EZ Availability: 4-SW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Gold, XP95, Orochi

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£90 (s or g, per iron)

ping.com

PING

Uses same COR-Eye technology of GMax, with a deep CG providing more dynamic loft and better distribution of weight in the heel, toe and hosel for unmatched forgiveness. Upgraded aesthetics include clean hosel-toshaft transition through the use of a ferrule.

Availability: 4-LW Stock steel shaft: AWT 2.0, N.S. Pro Modus3 105, XP 95, Project X, Dynamic Gold. Stock graphite: CFS Graphite

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

GMAX

PING

Availability: 4-SW Stock steel shaft: CFS Distance, N.S. Pro Modus3 105, XP 95, Project X, Dynamic Gold. Graphite: CFS Graphite

Type of iron? Super ame improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£92 (s) £102 (g)

ping.com

PING

Big performance gains without sacrificing any key attributes. The new i200 is for aspiring blade players who also demand forgiveness on mis-hits. Look and feel of a players’ iron with exceptional forgiveness for its size. Workability and playability.

Availability: 3-UW Stock steel shaft: AWT 2.0, CFS Distance, N.S. Pro Modus3 105, XP 95, Project X, Dynamic Gold, KBS Tour. Graphite: CFS graphite

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

iBLADE

PING

£120 (s) £130 (g)

ping.com The softest, purest feel ever achieved in a Ping iron, with workability on command. Tour pro input led the clean, compact iBlade to surpass expectations of skilled golfers who rely on precision to execute the most demanding shots in the game.

Availability: 3-PW Stock steel shaft: AWT 2.0, N.S. Pro Modus3 105, XP 95, Project X, Dynamic Gold.

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£130 (s) £140 (g)

taylormadegolf.co.uk Workability and compact shaping in an iron designed for distance. Discretionary weight lower in the head via the new 180° fluted hosel and ultra-thin topline provides higher launch and incredible distance. Face Slots add forgiveness on heel or toe strikes.

TAYLORMADE

£92 (s) £102 (g)

ping.com Ping’s longest, straightest model ever: COREye Technology (increases face flexing, for faster balls speeds across the face); wide sole (positions CG low/back for forgiveness); progressive lengths/lofts optimised for efficient gapping and distance control.

i200

Availability: 3-PW, AW, SW Stock steel shafts: True Temper XP 95 Stock graphite shafts: Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage Silver

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

M2 TAYLORMADE

£105 (s or g, per iron)

golf.mizunoeurope.com The Distance iron with feel. The JPX EZ is a ‘point and shoot’ iron with launch monitorbusting ball speeds – it’s also engineered to be the best feeling and most balanced within its class. #nothingfeelslikeamizuno.

MIZUNO

RRP

£849 (s, 7 irons) £1,049 (g, 7 irons)

taylormadegolf.co.uk Moving discretionary weight lower in the head via new six-sided fluted hosel and ultra-thin top edge, provides higher launch and distance. Combined with a 1.5mm thin, Max-COR face, for consistent strikes. Face Slots add forgiveness.

36 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Availability: 4-PW, AW, SW, LW Stock shafts: Reax 88 HL by FST Stock graphite shafts: M2 Reax

Type of iron? Super game-improvement, game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£699 (s, 7 irons) £799 (g, 7 irons)

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

P770

RRP taylormadegolf.co.uk

Designed with input from TaylorMade’s tour staff. 70g of tungsten in the back bar and sole of the long and mid irons maximise playability. One piece forged short irons maximise feel and feedback. Simply put purist performance.

TAYLORMADE

TYPE OF IRON

Availability: 3-PW , AW Stock shafts: KBS Tour FLT Graphite shafts: Custom order only.

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

716 AP1

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

For golfers seeking maximum distance and maximum forgiveness.

Availability: 3-PW, W, W2 Stock steel shaft: True Temper XP90, Stock graphite shaft: MRC Kurokage TiNi 65/50

Type of iron? Super game improvement, game improvement, better player Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

716 AP2 Availability: 3-W Stock steel shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT Stock graphite shaft: Available as custom.

Type of iron? Game improvement, Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

For golfers seeking shot control with forgiveness and forged feel.

Availability: 2-PW Stock steel shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT Stock graphite shaft: Available as custom.

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

TITLEIST

For golfers seeking a Tour-proven design with distance, forgiveness and feel.

£125 (s) £145 (g) per club

TITLEIST

titleist.co.uk

716 MB

£125 (s) £145 (g) per club

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

For golfers seeking maximum shot control with traditional forged feel.

Availability: 3-PW Stock steel shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT Stock graphite shaft: Available as custom.

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

716-TMB UTILITY

TITLEIST

For golfers that need high launch and long carry distance from their long irons but prefer the look of a blade.

£125 (s) £145 (g) per club

titleist.co.uk Availability: 2-5-iron Stock steel shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT Stock graphite shaft: Available as custom.

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

FG TOUR 100

£185 (s) £205 (g) per club

wilson.com Inspired by iconic 1971 Wilson Staff ‘Button Back’ model, these blades are forged with modern shape, size, styling and technology. A fluid bore-through insert paired with a milled face and scorelines provide the ultimate in consistency for precision players.

WILSON STAFF

£100 (s) £120 (g) per club

titleist.co.uk

716 CB

Availability: 3-PW Stock steel shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? No

FG TOUR V6 WILSON STAFF

£1049

£719

wilson.com Extending the brand’s forged iron heritage, they’re designed for those seeking ultimate feel, precision shot-shaping and feedback. 20g of tungsten weighting split to the heel and toe on long irons and centrered on midirons lowers CG and gives real forgiveness.

Availability: 4-PW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Gold AMT

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

£699

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 37

What Gear 2017 Irons MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

TYPE OF IRON

wilson.com

FG TOUR F5 WILSON STAFF

Premium irons for the crossover player seeking a forged feel and pure distance. Speed Sole™ technology creates a thin faceto-sole transition that expands the sweet spot lower for faster ball speeds and distance in the long and mid irons.

Availability: 4-SW Stock steel shaft: Dynamic Gold XP Stock graphite shaft: Mitsubishi Rayon

Type of iron? Better player Cast or forged? Forged Left-hand option? Yes

WILSON STAFF

For crossover players seeking distance not available from traditional irons, yet offering best-in-class feel. FLX Face Technology minimises contact points between the body and thin face and, along with Power Holes round the perimeter, increase ball speed.

Availability: 4-PW Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour 90 Stock graphite shaft: Aldila Rogue Pro

Type of iron? Game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£525 (s) £609 (g)

wilson.com

D300 New for 2017, the super-game improvement distance irons Wilson Staff believe to be the best it’s ever produced for performance and looks. FLX Face™ Technology, Power Holes, heel and toe weight pods on the perimeter increase MOI for forgiveness – plus distance.

WILSON STAFF

£609 (s) £699 (g)

wilson.com

C200

Availability: 4-PW Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour 80 Stock graphite shaft: Matrix Speed Rulz A-Type

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

Availability: 4-SW Stock steel shaft: Wilson Staff D250 by FST Stock graphite shaft: UST Proforce

Type of iron? Super game improvement Cast or forged? Cast Left-hand option? Yes

£579 (s) £659 (g)

wilson.com

D250 WILSON STAFF

RRP

Speed Sole Technology expands the sweetspot lower in the face for driver-like distances. Right Light Technology lets you swing faster with the same effort for more distance. Heel and toe weight pods around the head’s perimeter boost forgiveness.

£425 (s) £509 (g)

GET ALL THE LATEST GEAR NEWS AND REVIEWS FIRST! Online: todaysgolfer.co.uk Facebook: Today’s Golfer Twitter: @TheTodaysGolfer Instagram: @todaysgolfer YouTube: Today’s Golfer 38 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

LOVE GOLF?

GET A FREE MAGAZINE DELIVERED… CHOOSE TODAY’S GOLFER OR GOLF WORLD!

Call 0800 665478 today and quote offer WGT for Today’s Golfer or WGG for Golf World This promotion includes free postage; only one magazine per household can be claimed. Call times are Monday-Friday 8am-8pm and Saturday 10am-6pm – closed on Sundays. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer available for UK addresses only. Offer closes September 30, 2017. You will receive the next available issue of your magazine.

What Gear 2017 Wedges

£99

Spin class The latest wedges are designed to get your ball dancing round the pin edge technology has moved on quickly in the modern game, and there’s much more to think about when deciding which ones should be in your bag. If you don’t know your lofts from your shafts or sole grinds from bounce, it’s worth taking a while to understand how different design aspects such as grooves, grinds, lie angles and CG locations could help improve your scores from 100 yards – and save you shots in the process.

40 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Cleveland RTX-3 Cleveland are short game specialists, saying “nobody focuses on the short game like we do.” The newest version of the RTX combines everything they’ve learned over the decades, including more feel, sharper laser-milled grooves and new sole grinds to give you more chance of stopping shots on a sixpence.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

£89

£129

£119.99

Cobra KING PUR

TaylorMade Milled Grind

Ping Glide 2.0

“Progressive Spin Technology” in three specific sole grinds designed to cater for three very different types of wedge play and conditions.

Whereas the soles of other wedges are hand polished (which can mean inconsistency between heads), the soles and grinds of these are CNC milled, like a premium putter.

There’s a 431 stainless head with hydropearl finish so the Glides fit perfectly alongside a set of i200 irons. Grooves have been re-engineered and, like the faces, are CNC milled.

£129

£99.99

Callaway Mack Daddy Forged

Callaway MD3 Milled Matte Black

Callaway MD3 Milled Satin Chrome

A new 16-groove configuration incorporates an added groove near the leading edge for more spin, especially on pitches and chips, while a new sole grind adds versatility from all lies.

Three sole grinds give maximum chance to fit each wedge loft to your own game. Progressive groove optimisation ensures you generate spin where you need it most.

With plenty of loft options, three different sole grinds and two finishes to choose from we reckon anyone could fit at least a couple of MD3s into their armoury.

£79.99

£109

£109.99

Wilson Staff FG Tour PMP

Odyssey X Act Tank Chipper

Mizuno T7

The PMPs (Precision Milled Performance) have laser etched “Micro Spin” lines to boost control on partial shots, with a milled, flat face giving more consistency.

A hybrid-like sole improves turf interaction and versatility, which Odyssey says is great at eliminating the stubbed and bladed shots associated with poor chipping.

Boron-infused metal has been a feature in Mizuno irons, and it’s been used in the T7s. The extra strength it gives the head makes the grooves stay sharper for longer.

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 41

Exclusive To

Polo Shirts from

Â£14.99

NOW INSTORE & ONLINE

americangolf.co.uk/palm-grove

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MATT NICOLLE AMERICAN GOLF PRO MONUMENT STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘You’ll save a stack of shots if you can get up and down more’ But to do that, you need wedges that best suit your game

etting up and down, whether it’s from 100 yards out or a greenside bunker, is one of the best feelings in golf. And if you get the right wedges for your game, you can experience it more often. Grinds, gapping heads, shafts, lofts... they all need to be accounted for when you’re making a decision.

SHAFT OPTIONS We talk about shafts a lot when you get fitted for a new driver or a set of irons. Now they’re coming under the same sort of scrutiny in wedges, because they really can help add spin to short shots. At the moment you may need to specifically request as a custom option a high spin shaft in your wedges (there are a few available as standard), but our testing shows they can really help add the brakes to the ball. We’ve seen increases in spin by up to 600rpm, which is useful when the pressure is on to get a shot to sit down quickly on a hard green.

LASER-MILLED GROOVES Pretty laser-milled patterns have been appearing on the faces of leading wedges for a couple of years now. Whether they’re simple, straight microgrooves or in a funky pattern, they are designed to create more friction between the club and ball at impact. More friction means more spin which for you means more stopping power.

CNC-MILLED GROOVES Countless times we’ve heard how the short game is all about accuracy and you can save a stack of shots if you can get up and down from inside 100 yards. Well CNC milling takes performance to the extreme. It ensures the face is perfectly flat. By milling the grooves it means the shape and sharpness of each groove is right on the legal limit – it’s just not possible to get this degree of accuracy on a cast head that isn’t milled.

GET THE OPTIMUM LOFTS Gone are the days when wedge lofts were simply a choice of gap, sand and lob. Modern iron lofts are getting stronger, so often there’s a big gap in lofts between your PW and SW. Wedge makers are aware of this, so they make a huge variety of lofts to ensure you have perfect gaps between each one in your set. Some say four degrees between wedges is good practice, but pretty much every expert you speak to has their own ideas. If you want to keep things simple we particularly like a 52° and 58° combination, where the 58 is your sand and lob wedge and the 52 is for chipping and pitching.

BOUNCE OPTIONS You can guarantee a choice of low, mid and high bounce in any loft of wedge from the top manufacturers. Typically, more bounce helps you stop digging into the turf and sand and means the leading edge looks further from the ground at address. More bounce is advisable if you regularly play from wetter lush conditions like a parkland course. But lower bounce can really help “nip” shots from harder turf or more compacted bunkers.

SOLE GRINDS As more bespoke wedge companies have emerged, so too have all manner of sole grinds, designed for specific conditions or swing types. Generally the best wedge brands will offer at least a few grinds. They are designed to help with turf interaction from different playing situations, to reduce the effects of a steep or shallow attack, or to increase versatility. We’d say don’t get too bogged down with the tech; trust the common grinds offered by manufacturers unless you specifically know what you want.

HEAD SHAPES Some people like apples, others like oranges... it’s exactly the same when it comes to liking the shape of a wedge head. Whether you prefer rounder heads because you feel you can slip it under the ball more easily or the straighter leading edge of a teardrop shape, it’s really important you like which you pick.

FORGED OR CAST? Tech has moved on massively in the last 10 years, so much so that it’s not as important or desirable to only have forged wedges in your bag any more. Heat treatment technologies available today mean cast clubs can feel much like forged heads of yesteryear.

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 43

What Gear 2017 Wedges MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

RRP

TRIBE MDR

benrossgolf.com

BENROSS

The Tribe MDR wedge offers exceptional performance and feel with a premium plated finish. The KBS Tour Wedge shaft promotes a high launch and high spin ball flight, giving you maximum control around the greens.

Lofts: RH - 48˚, 50˚, 52˚, 54˚, 56˚, 58˚ LH - no Stock shafts: KBS Tour Wedge Finish options: Chrome Mist

MACK DADDY 3 MILLED

CALLAWAY

Created by wedge guru, Roger Cleveland, the MD3 Milled Wedges give the ability to match wedge grinds and spin performance to swing style and playing conditions for the first time. They have three unique grinds, S-Grind (all-purpose grind), C-Grind (firmer conditions) and W-Grind (softer conditions), with a Progressive Groove Optimisation system, which employs three groove patterns to increase spin as loft increases.

callawaygolf.com Lofts: RH - 46°, 48°, 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°, 64° LH - 48°, 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°, 64° Stock shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Wedge Finish: Chrome, Matte Black

MACK DADDY PM GRIND

CALLAWAY

Mack Daddy PM Grind Wedges have been designed in collaboration with five-time Major winner and Callaway staff professional, Phil Mickelson. The distinctive design feature of the wedges is the high toe, which moves the weight higher in the club, making delicate shots from greenside rough easier, while the increased surface area helps inspire confidence to accelerate through the ball and be more aggressive with approach shots.

Lofts: RH - 56°, 60°, 64° LH - 56°, 60°, 64° Stock steel shaft: KBS Tour V Wedge Finish options: Chrome, Matte Black

CALLAWAY

Lofts: RH - 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60° LH - 52°, 54°, 56°, 60° Stock steel shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S200 Finish options: Chrome, Slate

CLEVELAND

Lofts: RH - 46˚, 48˚, 50˚, 52˚, 54˚, 56˚, 58, 60˚, 62˚, 64˚ LH - yes in all lofts Stock shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Finish options: Black Satin, Tour Satin

KING PUR

£109

cobragolf.co.uk New raw wedge finish provides maximum spin with improved feel, versatility, and precision. Three different sole grind options permit the choice of the perfect wedge configuration to match your game. The ‘Versatile’ grind design features toe, heel and trailing edge relief. ‘Classic’ grind features a progressive width from heel to toe, and ‘WideLow’ grind features a wide sole with reduced bounce.

COBRA

£139

clevelandgolf.com The legendary performance of 588 with Cleveland’s most advanced spin technology for more control. For those seeking a Tour-proven design, RTX 3.0’s progressively varied sole designs make them more versatile than ever. Three new technologies include: Feel Balancing Technology, V-shaped Sole Grinds, and New Rotex Face. Low, Medium and High Bounce options. Cast wedge.

Lofts: RH - 52˚, 54˚, 56˚, 58˚, 60˚, Classic 56˚, 60˚; Widelow 56˚ 60˚ LH - yes Stock shafts: KBS Tour FLT Finish options: Satin high polish

ONE

£89

cobragolf.co.uk One length, one set-up and one swing for consistently improved feel, spin performance and versatility for scoring into greens. Built to accompany the new One Lengh irons, as pioneered by PGA Tour star Bryson DeChambeau.

COBRA

£109

callawaygolf.com

RTX-3 BLADE

MIZUNO

£109 (s) £119 (g)

callawaygolf.com

MACK DADDY FORGED Featuring a refined signature head shape, each Mack Daddy Forged wedge benefits from an innovative 16-groove face configuration, promoting additional spin. The forged also benefit from Progressive CG locations to promote a lower, more controllable trajectory in the higher lofts, while a new ‘R’ Grind crescent sole also helps create more precision shot-making.

£59.99

Lofts: RH 56˚, 60˚ LH - no Stock shafts: KBS Tour FLT Finish options: Satin high polish

£89

golf.mizunoeurope.com A midsize profile, with sharply visible sole grinds for imagination and creativity around the green. First in play with short-game supremo Luke Donald at the BMW Championships at Wentworth 2015. Suits players from pro to mid handicap.

44 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Lofts: RH - 25 loft/bounce options, from 49˚-62˚ LH - yes Stock shafts: Dynamic Gold (Wedge Flex), XP115 (Wedge Flex) Finish options: Blue IP, White Satin

£110

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

golf.mizunoeurope.com

MIZUNO

Increases the reliability of Mizuno’s precise Grain Flow Forged heads with longer-lasting spin control. Forged from a single steel billet infused with trace amounts of Boron, the T7 boasts a more durable groove than normal forged wedges. The teardrop-shaped profile drops all the way down to a 45˚ for full shots – ever more popular among professional and elite players.

Lofts: RH - 29 loft/bounce options from 45°-62° LH - Blue IP only Stock shafts: Dynamic Gold (Wedge Flex) Finish options: Black IP, White Satin

JPX900 HOT METAL

Lofts: RH - GW, SW, LW LH - yes Stock shafts: Modus Tour 105 Finish options: Chrome

£105

PING

GLIDE 2.0

ping.com Include new precision-milled grooves that increase spin by around 350rpm on full shots and 200rpm on shots around the green compared to original. Glide 2.0 line also incorporates a range of 16 loft/bounce/sole grind combinations to cater for all turf conditions and angles of attack. Higher-lofted options, created for finesse shots, have two more grooves than original, while the lower loft options have one additional groove.

Lofts: RH - 46°, 50°, 52°, 54° (two bounce/sole options), 56° (three b/s options), 58°, 58°, 58°, 58° (four b/s options), 60°, 60°, 60°, 60° (four b/s options). LH - yes. Stock shafts: AWT 2.0 (steel), TFC 419I (graphite)

CNC-machined sole geometry and a precise leading edge promote consistent turf interaction. New ZTP-17 grooves feature steeper side walls and sharper edge radius for maximum spin. Precision Weight Port (in the hosel) moves 10g for an optimal CG location, providing a lower launch angle and increased spin rate. 8620 carbon steel for soft feel.

Lofts: RH - 50˚, 52˚, 54˚, 56˚, 58˚, 60˚(plus 48˚, 56˚, 58˚, 60˚ in low bounce & 56˚, 58˚, 60˚in high bounce) LH - yes (all standard options). Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold wedge. Finish options: Satin chrome, bronze

TAYLORMADE

MILLED GRIND

£130 (s) £140 (g)

taylormadegolf.co.uk

VOKEY SM6

£139

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

Spin Milled (SM6) wedges establish a new performance standard, improving in the three key areas of wedge play: precise distance gapping, shot versatility and maximum spin.

Lofts: RH - 46˚, 48˚, 50˚, 52˚, 54˚, 56˚, 58˚, 60˚, 62˚ LH - yes. Stock shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold (graphite available in custom-fit). Finishess: Tour Chrome, Steel Grey (RH only), Jet Black

FG TOUR PMP WILSON STAFF

£120

golf.mizunoeurope.com

The JPX900 Hot Metal wedges (GW, SW, LW) have their very own material – a softer X30 steel for more feel and precision around the greens. The grooves and faces are milled to USGA/R&A limits to produce as much spin as your technique allows.

MIZUNO

RRP

£140 (s) £160 (g)

wilson.com Featuring precision-milled performance technology with milled grooves and 11 laser-etched micro spin lines between each groove creating maximum spin on full and partial shots. Three sole designs – Traditional, Tour Grind and Wide – plus numerous loft and bounce variables create nearly 100 unique playability options through custom fitting.

Lofts: RH - 48˚, 52˚, 54˚, 56˚, 58˚, 60˚, 62˚ LH - yes Stock shafts: KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 Shafts Finish options: Tour Frosted, Gun Blue and Oil Can

£85-£110

Get all the gear news at www.todaysgolfer.co.uk ✔ Thousands of club reviews, new and old ✔ Daily tips to help you play better golf ✔ Thousands of course reviews ✔ Breaking news, tour reports & interviews

THE E HOMOLF OF G MENT IP EQUNLINE O

What Gear 2017 Putters

Roll models Still battling on with that 1980s bullseye? It’s time you took advantage of the latest tech ot that long ago, putters were an afterthought for lots of golfers, lacking the razzmatazz of the latest woods or irons. But today’s flatsticks have never been more advanced, ed, with multi-material heads, adjustable weights in the grip, countless face inserts and dozens of different shapes. There’s no substitute for grabbing a few models at your nearest American Golf and having a go to see which feels best.

£169.99

Ping Sigma G A new aluminium face insert is teamed with milled variable width and depth grooves across the whole face which normalise ball speeds no matter where putts hit the face. The 16-model range includes blade, mallet, MOI mallets and two counterbalanced options.

46 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

From £169

From £99.99

From £249.99

Odyssey O-Works

Odyssey White Hot Pro 2.0

Ping Vault

Odyssey’s new “microhinge” insert combines finger-shaped grips on the stainless steel face with a thermoplastic elastomer feel layer to grab and “lift” the ball at impact. Eight shapes.

Features major-winning Tour proven head shapes with an improved version of the No.1 insert on Tour. Simple EyeFit fitting system lets you pick the head shape for your set-up.

Milled putters are seen as the pinnacle of flat sticks, because every head is precisely created by a computer-controlled milling machine. Four models; two blades and two mallets.

From £199.99

From £199

£199

TaylorMade Spider Tour

TaylorMade TP Collection

Sigma G CB

A 304 stainless steel frame and lightweight 6061 aluminium body enables weight to be positioned at the extremities, improving stability and delivering high MOI.

Four classic models, all of which feature a 303 stainless steel construction for solid feel and skim-milled machining for exacting contours and crisp looks.

Two counterbalanced models where the entire hitting surface is an innovative insert combining highly-responsive Pebax elastomer and a milled aluminium face.

From £269

£89.99

£99.99

Bettinardi BB1F

Wilson Infinite

Benross Tribe MDJ

The BB1F includes a neck that is ridgemilled and fades into the head of the putter itself, so the appearance at address is pure, keeping your focus on the ball.

Each putter in the range is named after a local landmark in the company’s home city of Chicago. Seven classic head shapes, each featuring counterbalanced technology.

Features a two-piece, eight-axis milled head, designed to optimally locate CG and promote a true roll. A plated finish provides better aesthetics and durability. TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 47

What Gear 2017 Putters ADRIAN SAXTON AMERICAN GOLF PRO DERBY STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘A face 1° open or closed will see you miss an eight-foot putt’ You’ll use it more than any other club, so make a wise choice

he modern putter is packed with technology to promote roll, alignment, balance and feel. But will it actually help you hole putts? Our guide to the options we all face will help you make your best choice.

INSERT OR NOT? It’s down to personal preference on sound and feel. Inserts can be made out of a variety of materials to give putters a different impact. Thermo-plastic and resin inserts give a softer feel at impact where metal inserts are firmer and more responsive. Some inserts remove weight to give the putter a certain balance, so try before you buy.

DOES THE TYPE OF STEEL REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Yes it can. In non-insert putters, softer, more exotic steels that offer more feel are often used in more bespoke putters. Of course they increase the cost, but only you can decide if such an investment is worthwhile. All we’d say is that your putter gets used more times a round than any other club in your bag, so it’s worth having one that’s going to maximise your chances of holing out.

COUNTER-BALANCED? We love the idea of counterbalancing a standard length (35”) putter. It improves the MOI, meaning increased stability which should translate to more holed putts and better distance control from long range. Unlike belly and

long putters you also don’t need to spend hours on the putting green getting used to a new putting method.

IS MY STROKE TYPE SUITED TO A PARTICULAR STYLE? Almost certainly. Straight-back-andthrough strokes are typically more suited to mallet, high-MOI and centre-shafted models. Those with arcing strokes tend to use blade putters more effectively. Having said this, it’s important to like the look of your putter, and that can overrule the style.

HOW IMPORTANT IS MOI? Wide, high-MOI heads resist twisting when hit off-centre better than blade heads – and when a face 1° open or closed will see you miss an eight-foot putt, it can be crucial. This doesn’t however stop many of us falling for a particular blade putter even if it might not be the most efficient model for our game.

CAN A PUTTER HELP ME AIM? Definitely. You only have to look at the success of putters like the 2Ball, which is still well played on tour, to realise how effective an alignment aid can be. It’s not only effective at address either; the best alignment aids show the correct path to swing the putter on, too.

WHAT ABOUT ADJUSTABILITY? We love the idea of setting up any club to suit your own game. It means the club is suited to your preference and style so potentially you’re likely to get more out of it. Adjustable weighting comes at a cost, but if you’re having a rough time on the greens, you can simply switch the weights to change a putter’s performance. Which is much cheaper than buying a new one.

WILL AN OVERSIZED GRIP HELP ME PUTT BETTER? You only need ttake a look on tour to see how popular oversized grips have become Effectively they put the putter become. more into the palms of your hands, which

quietens your wrist action and helps eliminate inconsistency. If your hands get busy we’d recommend giving them a try before buying, especially as there’s so many different shapes and sizes (many brands now offer them as an option, too). Some people feel they zap a bit of feel from their hands.

SHOULD MY PUTTER HAVE GROOVES? A lot of putter manufacturers believe grooves help grab and grip the ball at impact, which helps to get the ball rolling quicker. How much influence grooves have is open to debate. But we are very much of the thinking that if there’s an advantage to be had why wouldn’t you exploit it?

CENTRE-SHAFT, HEEL SHAFT... WHAT’S MY CHOICE? Centre-shafted putters have grown in popularity because they can aid alignment and allow you to get your eyes right over the point of impact. They can be an acquired taste, and tend to be more suited to a straight stroke. But if you have never tried one we’d say they are well worth a demo to see if you like the set-up.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

AVAILABLE

TRIBE MDA

benrossgolf.com

BENROSS

Features four classic head shapes, cast in soft 304 Steel. The Tribe MDA Series are finished with stunning black PVD and feature precise Face Milling providing exceptional feel.

Heads available: 4 Grips: Lamkin Sink 11” round

2 blade models 2 mallet models

TRIBE MDJ

BENROSS

Feature a two-piece, eight-axis milled head, designed to optimally locate CG and promote a true roll. A stunning plated finish provides exceptional aesthetics and durability.

Heads available: 6 Grips: Lamkin Sink 11” round

1 blade model 3 mallet models 2 MOI mallet models

clevelandgolf.com

CLEVELAND

A Tour-driven design with two wings that increase head stability, a simple design emphasises the raised sightline and focuses the eyes on alignment. True Feel Innovation face combines a Milled Copper Infused Face Cap over a Copolymer Insert for superb feel.

Heads available: 2 Grips: Lamkin Deep Etch Standard and Jumbo

2 mallet models 1 counterbalanced model

£129

clevelandgolf.com Has the longest sightline and perpendicular elements encircled by a uniform ring for further stability. True Feel Innovation face combines a Milled Copper Infused Face Cap over a Copolymer Insert for the ultimate in feel and consistency across the face.

CLEVELAND

£99

Available at

TFI 2135 CERO Heads available: 1 Grips: Lamkin Smooth, oversized WinnPro X 1.32”

1 mallet model

TFI 2135 MEZZO

CLEVELAND

£69

benrossgolf.com

TFI 2135 ELEVADO

£129

clevelandgolf.com A centre-shafted design with straight onset. It brings a modern, angular design to the traditional mid-mallet shape. The True Feel Innovation face combines a Milled Copper Infused Face Cap over a Copolymer Insert for the ultimate in feel and consistency.

Heads available: 1 Grips: Lamkin Smooth, oversized WinnPro X 1.32”

1 mallet model

TFI 2135 BLADES

CLEVELAND

RRP

£129

clevelandgolf.com

The four TFi blade models feature 2135 Raised Alignment in traditional, Tour-proven shapes. Each design is clean with few distractions to emphasise the raised sightline and focus the golfer’s eyes on alignment.

Heads available: 4 -1.0, 6.5, 8.0 & 8.0 CB Grips: Lamkin Smooth, oversized WinnPro X 1.18

4 blade models

£99

New gear... first!

● See all the 2017 clubs first ● Exclusive video reviews ● The truth behind the tech ● Club designer insight ● Plus 100s more kit reviews www.todaysgolfer.co.uk TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 49

What Gear 2017 Putters MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

AVAILABLE

RRP

HUNTINGTON BEACH COLLECTION

CLEVELAND

Three key new features combine in this classic-looking premium putter range. Each putter features a Precision Milled Face for softer feel and a more consistent roll, made from soft 304 Stainless Steel, and feature Tour-proven, generation-spanning shapes.

clevelandgolf.com Heads available: 3 - 1, 4, 6 Grips: Lamkin Smooth, oversized WinnPro X 1.18

3 blade models

Available at

MP-A

golf.mizunoeurope.com The MP-A series putters combine a sleek black IP finish, with bevelled white top edge to make their classic shapes easier to align. Each is an individually forged and milled masterpiece designed to generate a solid yet soft feel.

MIZUNO

£89

Heads available: 9 Grip: Standard

5 blade models 4 mallet models 1 counterbalanced model

£179

Available at

SIGMA G

ping.com

PING

Comprises 15 beautiful models in either a classic platinum or satin-look black nickel finish, this new family fits both stroke type and personal preference. Includes some of Ping’s icons: Anser, Shea H and B60, it also has eight new models across the categories.

Heads available: 15 (Anser, Kinloch, Kushin, Tess, Piper 3, D66, B60, Ketsch B, Kinloch C, Shea H, Tyne, Darby, Wolverine T, Doon & Kinloch CB). Grips: Ping Pistol or Ping counterbalanced

7 blade models 4 mallet models 2 mid-mallet models 2 counterbalanced models

From £175 (adjust. shaft is £24 upgrade) Available at

VAULT

ping.com

PING

Precision-milled, drawing inspiration from the legendary Gold Putter Vault. Improved touch and speed control with patented TrueRoll face technology. Individually milled face pattern varies in depth and pitch across the face, which speeds up off-centre impacts.

Heads available: 5 (Arna, Anser 2, Voss, Bergenm & Oslo) Grips: Ping Pistol 62

2 blade models 1 mallet models 2 MOI mallet models

£275 (adjust. shaft is £24 upgrade) Available at

TR 1966

ping.com

PING

TR 1966 Anser and Anser 2 models feature True-Roll face technology for unmatched ball-speed consistency. They offer the classic lines, solid feel and ease of alignment that have made the Anser the most successful putter model in golf history.

Heads available: 2 (Anser, Anser 2) Grips: PP58 midsize black

2 blade models

Available at

taylormadegolf.co.uk

TAYLORMADE

Milled 303 stainless steel heads and a Tour Satin finish for premium look and feel. Adjustable sole weights, ensure a playable swing-weight. Strategically positioned sightlines aid alignment. Wide array of toe hangs to fit any stroke and grip options.

Heads available: 4 (Suto, Juno, Berwick, Mullen) Grip: Lamkin sink pistol red/ white, Super Stroke GT 1.0

2 blade models 2 mallet models

TAYLORMADE

SPIDER TOUR

£199 (£219 for Super stroke grip)

taylormadegolf.co.uk Redesigned with a smooth crown and no sightline for clean alignment. Short slant neck hosel, providing expanded visibility of the face and toe hang – rare for a high-MOI mallet. Light 6061 body & 304 stainless steel frame lets weight move to perimeter.

Heads available: 2 (Spider Tour Red, Tour black Grip: Red - Winn Medalist Pistol; Black - Winn AVS mid-size Pistol

SCOTTY CAMERON SELECT

TITLEIST

£145 (adjust. shaft is £24 upgrade)

Blade and mid mallets precision milled to meet the standards of the best putters for looks, sound and feel. Sleek, performanceoriented models with new technology, shapes and configurations. Craftsmanship allied to multi-material technology.

50 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

2 MOI Mallet models

£269

titleist.co.uk Heads available: 7 Grips available: Matador Mid Midsize (except Newport 2 Notchback Dual Balance, which has Dual Balance grip)

5 blades (Newport, Newport 2, Newport 2.5, Newport 2 Notchback, Newport 2 Notchback Dual Balance); 2 mallets (Newport M1 and M2), 1 counterbalanced (Newport 2 Notch’ Dual Balance)

£335 (£355 dual balance)

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

DETAILS

AVAILABLE

RRP titleist.co.uk

SCOTTY CAMERON FUTURA

TITLEIST

The 2017 Futura family melds the best design characteristics of the previous generations for a lineup of tour-proven shapes and configurations with enhanced stability and forgiveness, improved alignment features, and responsive feel and feedback.

Heads available: 7 Grips available: Black Matador Mid (except Futura 6M DB)

Four mid-mallets (Futura 5CB, Futura 5MB, Futura 5W, Futura 5S), three high MOI mallets (Futura 6M, Futura 6M DB, Futura 7M)

wilson.com

8802 WILSON STAFF

Timeless classic played by multiple major winners down the years. Designed with modern head weighing 335g, the double milled face offers the ultimate in precision, feel and feedback. A stylish head cover compliments the putter’s vintage design.

Heads available: 1 Grip: Lamkin smooth Pistol 3Gen

1 blade model

£129

wilson.com

INFINITE Each putter in the range is named after a local landmark in the company’s home city of Chicago. Seven classic head shapes, each featuring counterbalanced technology for a more controlled stroke and milled face to promote consistent impact, roll & distance.

WILSON STAFF

£335 (£355 dual balance)

Heads available: 7 (Grant Park, Lincoln Park, Michigan Avenue, South Side, The Bean, Midway & Windy City) Grip: CounterBalance Infinte

3 blade models 4 mallet models (including armlock Midway) All counterbalanced

£95 (£120 Midway)

GET YOUR CLUBS VALUED TODAY ASK FOR YOUR FREE VALUATION TODAY!

PGA Value Guide

Woods Callaway X Hot Driver

£29

Callaway XR Driver

£56

Ping G25 Driver

£58

TaylorMade Burner Superfast 2.0 Driver

£29

TaylorMade M2 Fairway

£65

Titleist 915D2 Driver

£72

Irons Callaway X20 Irons

£63

Ping G20 Irons

£130

TaylorMade Burner 2.0 Irons

£79

Putters Scotty Cameron 2016 Newport 2 Putter

£108

WE PAY

 £79  £82  £41  £92  £102 £89  £162 £112 £135 £41

PRICE BEATEN BY

£12 £23 £24 £12 £27 £30 £26 £32 £33 £27

Excludes single wedges. Trade-in is on like for like product, e.g. set of irons for a set of irons. For full terms & conditions ask a member of staff or visit americangolf.co.uk/trade-in or see instore a4

AS SEEN ON SKY

TOURNAMENTS FOR 2017 FREE FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Over 100 stores nationwide. Shop 24/7 at americangolf.co.uk

LONG DRIVE CHAMPIONSHIP INDIVIDUAL EVENT

JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP INDIVIDUAL EVENT

F EN RE TR E Y

9 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP PAIRS EVENT

SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP PAIRS EVENT

LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP PAIRS EVENT

NEW FOR 2017

PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP

FAMILY CHAMPIONSHIP 9 HOLE INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP ADVENTURE GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP SCRATCH CHAMPIONSHIP

In assosiation with

THE RACE TO MAURITIUS Champions from six of our tournaments at The Belfry will win a week in Mauritius staying at The Heritage Le Telfair Golf Spa & Resort

AMERICANGOLF.CO.UK/TOURNAMENTS

INSTORE

•

ONLINE

•

MOBILE

What Gear 2017 Balls

Find the best ball for you The choice can be bewildering, so we’re here to help hey’re round, they’re (usually) white and they have dimples. Unlike clubs most balls look exactly the same – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Complex cores, covers and aerodynamics mean each one is designed to suit different players, catering for fast and slow swing speeds, those who want more distance, more spin or more feel. Choosing the best one for your game can be tricky, but this isn’t a bad place to start.

£39.99 Srixon Z-Star/Z-Star XV The Z-Star has always been a good ball, and the new one is the best yet. But more importantly, Srixon has partnered Prostate Cancer UK for 2017, to raise money and awareness for a disease that kills 11,000 men in the UK every year. Every dozen sold will see £1.50 donated to the charity.

54 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk

£17.99 per doz

£29.99 per doz

£19.99 per doz

Srixon AD333

Srixon AD333 Tour

Srixon UltiSoft

A 324 dimple pattern allowed Srixon’s engineers to create a more aerodynamic design which reduces drag, while its energy core wants to turn club speed into distance.

Designed for golfers without tour-level swing speeds, but who want many performance traits a tour ball provides. Energetic Gradient Growth (EGG) core and Spin Skin coating.

Super low compression balls are all the rage right now. Srixon didn’t want to miss out and this is their softest ever ball, which is said to deliver ultimate feel with straighter distance.

£42.99 per doz

£29.99 per doz

£15.99 per doz

TaylorMade TP5/TP5x

TaylorMade Project (a)

Wilson Staff DX2 Soft

A five-layer construction features a new threepiece “tri-fast” core (for maximum energy on full shots) and a dual-spin cover (lets more of the urethane engage with the grooves).

This three-piece ball is designed to improve performance in the area amateur golfers (where the ‘a’ in the name stems from) need it most – into and around the green.

A new seamless 302 dimple pattern produces a more consistent flight while an ionomer cover generates high-lift characteristics on tee shots.

£11.99 per doz

£19.99 per doz

£29.99 per doz

Callaway Warbird Plus

Callaway Supersoft

Callaway Chrome Soft

They’ve ditched traditional dimples and incorporated Callaway’s patented HEX Aerodynamics, which reduce drag and promote a stronger, more penetrating flight.

The Supersoft is Callaway’s softest ball ever and features a compression of only 38, which is 20 lower than some of their most popular two-piece balls.

It has a three-piece construction with a compression of around 75 lower than the majority of balls used out on tour, and it features a new ‘SoftFast’ core. TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 55

What Gear 2017 Balls MATT NICOLLE AMERICAN GOLF PRO MONUMENT STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘Match the ball to your swing speed to optimise the tech’ Two, three, four or five layers? Let us help you choose

hey are all 1.68 inches across, they are all white – apart from the ones that are yellow – and they are all covered in dimples. Read the packaging and they all promise you the long game of Rory and the short game of Phil. How the blazes are you supposed to choose the best one for your game? Here, we can answer that question.

DO YOU... WANT A BALL THAT WILL HELP YOU HIT IT FURTHER? It’s probably fair to say that no one makes a short golf ball anymore: There’s long and slightly longer. Some brands base their engineering on club speed and compression; others on moderating driver spin rates. The question can only be answered when you know your driver swing speed. For instance, Srixon’s balls are designed to offer maximum distance performance for different speeds – Z-Star XV is for faster speeds, over 105mph; Z-Star is a little slower, 90-105mph, while the AD balls are for more typical club golfer speeds of 80-90mph. Match the ball to your speed and all the technology will be optimised for you.

DO YOU... WANT A BALL THAT WILL HELP YOUR SHORT GAME? Once you get inside 80 yards, the cover material is the key defining attribute when it comes to spin, feel and control. That’s why all the balls you’ll find on Tour are covered in urethane, which can give up to 1500rpm more spin on short shots than surlyn-covered balls. That makes a big difference to how the ball stops on the green. Srixon also uses a Spin Skin coating, which enhances the contact between cover and face, increasing the club’s grip on the ball at slower speeds.

DO YOU... WANT PERFORMANCE, WITHOUT SPENDING TOO MUCH? Experts agree that sticking 56 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

with one ball is a good idea, as it allows you to build feel and confidence. However, when that golf ball costs in excess of £40 a dozen, is there another option that won’t hit you so deeply in the pocket? The best investment is being fitted for your best ball. But if you want a Tour ball without spending a fortune, Callaway’s popular Chrome Soft (and the new Chrome Soft X) are played by the likes of Phil Mickelson and Patrick Reed, yet cost just over £30 per dozen.

DO YOU... WANT A BALL THAT FLIES AND SPINS? The ideal golf ball is both powerful off the tee and soft, spinny and controllable around the green. So which balls come closest to delivering the best of both worlds? Well, most of those used on Tour fulfil the brief. Most brands offer a regular and a slightly firmer “x” version; the difference is only really seen in the long game, and is down to the core construction. gr Around the green, their

performance is very similar. You need to get on a launch monitor to see which works best with your swing.

HOW MANY LAYERS? Some popular balls have two (Srixon’s AD333), others have three, four or even five (TaylorMade’s TP5). The brands talk endlessly about how each layer contributes to a ball’s performance, and it’s broadly true that more layers equal a more all-round ball (most of those played on tour are three or more). But you’ll see that these multi-layer tour balls, promising the best blend of distance, spin and feel, also cost the most.

WHAT IS COMPRESSION? There’s been a surge recently in soft balls, which are said to compress more at impact, helping you hit it further. Lower compression balls like Srixon’s UltiSoft tend to be softer and compress more to create more distance, especially for slower swings. Higher compression balls, like those predominantly played on tour, usually offer more control and are used by good players whose quicker swing speeds compress the ball at impact.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk DETAILS MODEL

DESCRIPTION

NUMBER OF PIECES

USED ON TOUR

COVER MATERIAL

CHROME SOFT

callawaygolf.com

CALLAWAY

A Dual SoftFast Core produces fast ball speeds and low spin for players looking to optimise launch conditions off the tee. The four-piece construction, mantle layer and urethane cover provide a soft feel and control throughout the bag. HEX Aerodynamics improve ball flight in all conditions.

Four

Yes

Urethane

CHROME SOFT X

CALLAWAY

Slightly firmer, lower-flying Tour ball than the Chrome Soft with premium greenside control. Boasts HEX Aerodynamics and a Dual SoftFast core and ultra-thin, but durable, Tour Urethane cover to deliver an unbeatable combination of distance, control and feel.

Four

Yes

Urethane

CALLAWAY

£32.99

callawaygolf.com Combines Soft Tri-ionomer cover formulation with ultra low compression and low-drag HEX aerodynamics – designed to reduce drag and enhance lift – to create Callaway’s softest ever ball that reduces spin and increases distance. The ball is available in traditional white, yellow and pink.

Two

Tri-onomer

WARBIRD

£19.99

callawaygolf.com Designed for distance seekers, the Warbird is available in white or yellow and features a large, soft, high-energy core designed to enhance ball speed. Callaway’s HEX Aerodynamics help reduce drag and produce even better low-speed lift to help create a more penetrating ball flight.

CALLAWAY

£32.99

callawaygolf.com

SUPERSOFT ’17

Two

Ionomer

Z-STAR XV

SRIXON

The new Z-Star XV has an enhanced dual Energetic Gradient Growth core and Speed Dimples for long penetrating distance, and the new SpinSkin coating provides exceptional control. Srixon is supporting Prostate Cancer UK this year, donating £1.50 for every dozen Z-Star XVs sold.

Four

Yes

Urethane with Spin Skin tech

SRIXON

£45

srixon.co.uk The new Z-Star with next generation SpinSkin gives players unmatched feel and control, while the new Speed Dimple technology combines with the Energetic Gradient Growth core to deliver incredible distance. Srixon is supporting Prostate Cancer UK this year, donating £1.50 for every dozen Z-Stars sold.

Three

Yes

Urethane with Spin Skin tech

AD333 TOUR

£45

srixon.co.uk AD333 Tour is a premium ball designed especially for golfers that don’t possess tour level swing speeds but demand the precision of a tour level golf ball featuring second genreation SpinSkin technology and E.G.G. Core.

SRIXON

£16.99

srixon.co.uk

Z-STAR

Three

Urethane with Spin Skin tech

AD333

SRIXON

RRP

£34

srixon.co.uk The No.1 two-piece ball in the UK for last 10 years, it provides distance off the tee and spin control around the green. Coupled with superior soft feel and the visual performance of both Pure White and Tour Yellow, it features second genreation SpinSkin technology.

Two

Rabalon elastomer with Spin Skin tech

£25

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 57

What Gear 2017 Balls MODEL

NUMBER OF PIECES

DESCRIPTION

USED ON TOUR

COVER MATERIAL

ULTISOFT

srixon.co.uk

SRIXON

Designed for golfers with low to mid swing speeds who are looking for the ultimate in feel without sacrificing distance. The super-low compression of their softest-ever E.G.G core delivers an incredibly soft feel while maintaining maximum initial ball speed to generate longer, straighter distance.

Two

Rabalon Ionomer

SOFT FEEL

£26

srixon.co.uk Now in its 10th generation, the new Srixon Soft Feel ball provides even better feel on all shots, improved greenside spin and incredible distance and accuracy from tee to green.

SRIXON

RRP

SOFT FEEL LADY

Two

Ionomer

srixon.co.uk Two

Ionomer

£40

SRIXON

The new Srixon Soft Feel Lady ball, in its fifth generation, features the same performance benefits as the Soft Feel, with a slightly higher launch.

£25

DISTANCE

srixon.co.uk Two

Ionomer

£18.99

SRIXON

This premium distance ball has high initial velocity, a soft compression and a penetrating ball flight to provide optimum distance with responsive soft feel.

PROJECT A

taylormadegolf.co.uk

TAYLORMADE

Designed for the amateur golfer who needs ultimate distance with every club but also more approach shot spin. A 40 compression core delivers more driver speed, a spin mantle layer delivers more iron distance while a Urethane cover ensures a soft feel and tour level spin.

Three

Urethane

TP5

taylormadegolf.co.uk

TAYLORMADE

Tri-Fast Core: Progressive compression for maximum energy transfer. Dual-Spin Cover: Multi-layer spin performance with soft cast urethane cover. 322 seamless dimple pattern. Has five-layer ultra-soft core construction, a softer feel with long distance on all shots and 83 compression.

Five

Yes

TP5X

£49.99

taylormadegolf.co.uk Tri-Fast Core: Progressive compression for maximum energy transfer. Dual-Spin Cover: Multi-layer spin performance with soft cast urethane cover. 322 seamless dimple pattern. Five-layer ultra-thin cover construction, High launch and low spin for extremely long distance. 90 compression.

TAYLORMADE

Urethane

Five

Yes

Urethane

PRO V1

TITLEIST

£34.99

£49.99

titleist.co.uk 2017 Pro V1 balls offer total performance; even longer distance with lower long-game spin and even more consistent flight, plus drop-and-stop greenside control, very soft feel and long lasting durability. Each element of a Pro V1 is formulated to work together to deliver elite performance.

58 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Three

Yes

Urethane Elastomer

£52

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

NUMBER OF PIECES

USED ON TOUR

COVER MATERIAL

PRO V1x

titleist.co.uk

TITLEIST

2017 Pro V1x balls offer total performance for every player. Golfers will experience even more consistent flight, extraordinary distance with high launch and low spin in the long game, drop-and-stop greenside control, soft feel and long lasting durability. Each element has been formulated to work together.

Four

Yes

Urethane Elastomer

NXT TOUR

TITLEIST

Has a larger center dual core that produces low spin and fast ball speed for even longer driver and iron distance. The new core technology combines with Titleist’s soft, proprietary Fusablend cover for excellent shot stopping control and soft feel.

Two

Fusablend

TITLEIST

Two

Fusablend

VELOCITY

TITLEIST

Two

NAZ2

DT TRUSOFT

£26

titleist.co.uk Titleist’s softest compression feel while delivering impressive distance. A new core and cover formulation delivers very low spin in the long game for extra distance along with short game playability. DT TruSoft technology results in the best mix of very soft compression feel and consistency.

TITLEIST

£35

titleist.co.uk Proprietary LSX core technology delivers faster ball speeds for more distance on all full swing shots. The lowspin construction with leading-edge aerodynamics produces a soaring trajectory for remarkable carry and roll. A new, thinner NAZ2 cover provides more playable short-game feel.

Two

Ionomer

DX2 SOFT

£22

wilson.com Still the longest, straightest and softest two-piece on the market. Designed to benefit slower swing speeds, the 29-compression DX2 rubber rich core produces ultimate velocity off the clubface for great distance, while its lowspinning construction generates straighter ball flights.

WILSON STAFF

£35

titleist.co.uk Provides similar high-performance benefits as NXT Tour with a remarkably softer feel. A reformulated softer compression core combines with a softer Fusablend cover to produce the softest-feeling NXT Tour S yet, while maintaining superb long-game distance and scoring precision in the short game.

Two

Ionomer

DX3 SPIN

£19.99

wilson.com The 35 compression, three-piece construction delivers the best of both worlds. Engineered to satisfy the golfer looking for straighter ball flights on drives and long iron shots, while also providing excellent greenside spin performance with the scoring irons.

WILSON STAFF

£52

titleist.co.uk

NXT TOUR S

Three

Ionomer

DX3 URETHANE WILSON STAFF

RRP

£24.99

wilson.com Engineered for the feel player. Typically for a lowerhandicap golfer who can work the ball to perform creative shot-making. The soft urethane cover grabs the club face for ultimate spin on demand. 55 compression, threepiece construction provides Tour spin performance.

Three

Urethane

£29.99

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 59

This year American Golf are holding two FREE Golf Shows in conjunction with the European Tour and Sky Sports, hosted by Denise Van Outen. Plus we’re also bringing The Golf Show to two European Events and with a tournament ticket you can enjoy FREE entry to the show. Whether you are new to the game, a seasoned player or looking for a family day out, our FREE Golf Shows have something for you. You can take a lesson with our Pros, hit the latest clubs on our driving range and enter our skills challenges to win great prizes. The main stage will be the place to be when our trick shot expert and special guests arrive. If you need a break, enjoy our 19th Hole hospitality or pop over to the Kid’s Zone where you’ll ﬁnd games for all the family.

FREE SHOW ACTIVITIES - Over 60 opportunities to hit golf balls - Custom ﬁtting with all the leading brands - PGA Pro Lessons - Long Drive Competition - Nearest the Pin Competition

- Chipping Challenge - Pressure Putt Challenge - Kids Zone including remote control cars - Trick Shot Show - American Golf Shop

Over 100 stores nationwide. Shop 24/7 at americangolf.co.uk

F EN RE TR E Y

FREE ARENA SHOWS

LONDON ExCeL 7th - 9th April MANCHESTER EVENTCITY 28th -30th April BOOK YOUR TICKETS AT

AMERICANGOLF.CO.UK/SHOW

WE’RE ALSO INSIDE THE ROPES AT 12th -16th July 27th September - 1st October

INSTORE

•

ONLINE

•

MOBILE

What Gear 2017 Shoes ADRIAN SAXTON AMERICAN GOLF PRO DERBY STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘According to FootJoy, 70% of us are wearing the wrong size’ And that’s just one thing to get right with any golf shoes

firm grip of the ground through the soles of our feet is literally the foundation of the golf swing – and never moreso than in today’s power game. Consequently, if we want to hit the ball hard and in balance, the shoes on our feet need to deliver serious levels of traction, and the latest shoes are designed for that.

TRACTION = DISTANCE Making a priority of traction has helped FootJoy remain market leader for more than a decade. “Our shoes are always designed ‘from the bottom up’ so to speak,” says Richard Fryer, sales and marketing director. “The shoe is the golfer’s only point of contact with the ground, and provides the base for a powerful but controlled golf swing.” FootJoy puts every shoe they make through its paces at their “ShoeBox” research facility in Massachusetts, with testing on force platforms and with a range of real golfers. “We are looking to see how the shoe reacts with the ground, and what force gets exerted in the direction of the ball flight,” adds Fryer.

SOLE SURVIVAL You’ll see a lot of talk this year about soles. Spiked ones, spikeless ones, structured ones, flexible ones... Which should you go for? Depends who you ask... “There is always a tradeoff with golf shoes,” says Ecco’s sponsorship manager Jesper Thuen. “Generally the more traction and stability a shoe has, the less comfort it offers. Our latest moulded soles – we call them hybrid shoes – can raise traction without sacrificing comfort.” But Grant Knudson, Puma Golf’s Head of Footwear, says: “Independent tests prove cleats give slightly better traction, but it comes down to what you’re looking for.” Knudson added, “Spikeless can offer more flexibility,

62 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

versatility and comfort, and can be the better option in better weather.”

A SECURE FIT When we consider good traction, our focus inevitably shifts to the sharp, pointy bits on the sole of the shoe. But as shoe engineers point out, that’s only part of the story. “The upper is a second major part of traction,” Ecco’s Thuen insists. “It needs to hold the foot inside the shoe in place. If your foot slides around inside the shoe, there’s nothing those traction elements on the sole can do to keep you stable and balanced.” “It’s important that the sole works in unison with the upper,” adds FootJoy’s Fryer. “For example in our new HyperFlex we have a very stable outsole, but if we didn’t have structure and strength in the upper in the form of the FlexGrid 2.0, all that stability and performance would be lost.”

SLIMLINE SOLES Golf shoe makers have been trying for decades to build shoes that get your feet closer to the ground, and Ecco’s Jesper Thuen explains why. “It’s a balance thing,” he asserts. “The closer you get to the ground, the better balanced you are. The better

balanced you are, the more efficiently you can swing.” Ecco’s concept of natural motion, captured in their Biom range, is focused on this principle. “As you get further from the ground you need to add more stability elements in the shoe, which creates more weight,” Thuen adds. “We’ve reversed this in the Biom range by creating a very thin midsole, which reduces the weight and brings the foot lower. This helps you harness the natural ability of the foot to balance and move. Biom may only seem a small amount lower than other shoes, but you do feel a difference; the more natural posture you can have in your body, the better you feel and swing. It also helps you walk as naturally as possible.”

GET THE RIGHT SIZE Sounds obvious, right? You’re wrong. According to FootJoy’s research some 70% of us are mistaken – and that research also suggests ill-fitting shoes can sap up to 26% of your swing power. “The typical errors are shoes that are too long or wide,” reveals FootJoy’s Fryer. “So while the shoe may offer excellent traction and stability, if the foot is moving around inside the shoe, much of that performance benefit is lost.” This is why FootJoy offer a huge breadth of fitting options – including widths from XN to XXW, and nine different lasts (shoe shapes) for men and eight for women.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

SPIKED

COLOUR WATERPROOF SPIKELESS OPTIONS

SIZE

POWERBAND BOA BOOST

ADIDAS

Using a new Powercage chassis the shoe combines supportive materials and straps in the centre saddle of the shoe to lock down the midfoot as well as incorporate the new L6 Boa closure system. Boost foam in the midsole provides cushioning.

Yes

Five

Yes Climastorm

6.5-13 in medium or wide widths

ADIDAS

Yes

Four

6.5-13

CROSSKNIT BOOST

ADIDAS

Yes

Four

6.5-13

CAGE PRO

ECCO

£120

global.ecco.com/en/sport/golf A revolutionary new Spydr-Grip sole design delivers superb grip and performance in a spikeless shoe. A onepiece heel cage and mid-sole maximises stability and power transfer.

Yes

Black, white, concrete

Yes Hydromax

COOL

39-47

£160

global.ecco.com/en/sport/golf A joint venture between Ecco and Gore, it combines unparalleled comfort, as well as exceptional protection from the wet. Gore-Tex Surround technology, an air channelling system for 360° breathability without waterproof compromise.

ECCO

£100

adidas.co.uk

Full-length Boost foam midsole for unrivaled cushioning is joined to a CIRCLEknit upper material which is specially engineered for golf footwear and features superior breathability and stretch comfort while providing lateral stability.

Yes

Concrete, black, white/ black, white/ tomato

Yes Gore-Tex

BASE ONE

39-47

£220

global.ecco.com/en/sport/golf Cleated shoe with one-component outsole for exceptional comfort and flexibility. Developed on the Ecco Cage last and promotes superior walking comfort out of the box, as well as protection from the elements thanks to a Hydromax upper.

ECCO

£130

adidas.co.uk

Boost midsole cushioning for walking comfort and energy return combines with bounce foam in forefoot for long-lasting cushioning and soft comfort. Puremotion outsole provides great stability, grip and performance. Lightweight and flexible.

Yes

Black, white

Hydromax

BIOM HYBRID 2

39-47

£130

global.ecco.com/en/sport/golf Has the Biom Natural Motion and E-DTS outsole technologies, the multi awardwinning shoe provides the ultimate blend of comfort and performance, with an understated yet athletic look. Thinner midsole brings players closer to the turf.

ECCO

RRP

adidas.co.uk

ADIPOWER SPORT BOOST 3

Yes

3 options in Hydromax, 4 in Gore-Tex.

Yes Hydromax or Gore-Tex

BIOM G2 FREE

ECCO

LADIES

39-47

£170 Hydro max, £190 Gore-Tex

global.ecco.com/en/sport/golf A redesigned version of the popular cleated model which incorporates Biom technology. Features an updated yak leather upper and is available for 2017 in both weather-resistant Hydromax® and waterproof Gore-Tex® versions.

Yes

3 options in both shoes

Yes Hydromax or Gore-Text

39-47

£195 Hydro max, £215 Gore-Tex

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 63

What Gear 2017 Shoes MODEL

DESCRIPTION

SPIKED

COLOUR WATERPROOF SPIKELESS OPTIONS

CAGE Yes

Black, white/ black

Yes Hydromax

39-47

DNA 2.0

FOOTJOY

The most feature-packed FJ shoe ever. A lightweight cushioned Fine Tuned Foam fitbed provides optimum underfoot comfort & support. ChromoSkin leather is supple, lightweight, durable and 100% waterproof. A 3D FoamCollar molds to the ankle.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12 (5-15 in MyJoys)

FOOTJOY

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

DRYJOYS TOUR

FOOTJOY

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-14 (5-15 in MyJoys)

PRO SL

£295

£145

footjoy.co.uk This new spikeless shoe offers a unique blend of comfort and Tour-calibre performance. Has a three-piece outsole combining two blends of Fine Tuned Foam for cushioning and stability, with a TPU molded sole for traction.

FOOTJOY

£160

footjoy.co.uk A heritage of over 20 years, DryJoy’s combine traditional styling with cutting edge technology. A fiberglass composite support bridge gives tremendous mid-foot stability. Stability PODS along the outsole create one of the most flexible outsoles.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

HYPERFLEX II

£135

footjoy.co.uk A BioMorph exoskeleton upper mimics the ligaments of the foot to improve comfort and fit. The flexible, waterproof mesh upper allows for maximum comfort, breathability and flexibility. Fine-Tuned Foam 2.0 provides underfoot comfort.

FOOTJOY

£170

footjoy.co.uk Combines first-class craftmanship with the finest, premium materials. Leather inserts in the TPU outsole provide a timeless look with modern performance. Memory Foam in the tongue and around the collar, provides a custom fit to enhance comfort.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

FREESTYLE

£140

footjoy.co.uk Helps generate maximum power through greater freedom of movement in the swing. Traction is enhanced thanks to an outsole inspired by the Red-Eyed Tree Frog, which enables the cutting-edge design to deliver great traction and grip in all conditions.

FOOTJOY

RRP

footjoy.co.uk

ICON BLACK

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

CONTOUR FIT

FOOTJOY

LADIES

global.ecco.com/en/sport/golf Cleated shoe featuring a fully-integrated DiP wrap system that promotes superior walking comfort immediately out of the box and for every step thereafter. Cage promotes increased stability, flexibility and cushioning with one-piece, DiP stability.

ECCO

SIZE

£140

footjoy.co.uk No.1 selling shoe has been improved – a new TPU DynaFlex outsole offers improved flexibility when walking. The Xtra-thick PU FitBed provides supreme comfort when combined with a soft achilles pad. Upper is a soft full grain waterproof leather.

64 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

£120

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

SPIKED

COLOUR WATERPROOF SPIKELESS OPTIONS

SIZE

CONTOUR CASUAL

FOOTJOY

Feature the same world-renowned fit and comfort as their spiked breathren, but with the added versatility of a spikeless outsole. Full grain leather uppers are soft, comfortable and waterproof while an external heel cup gives aditional support.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12 5.5-14 in MyJoys

FOOTJOY

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

HYDROLITE 2.0

£90

footjoy.co.uk Feature a leather upper design that will appeal to the traditionalist as well as providing waterproof protection. Outsole is low profile in order to provide stability and flexibility. TourLock cleat system helps to ensure good grip in all weather conditions.

FOOTJOY

£105

footjoy.co.uk A new athletic shoe category designed to offer comfort, performance and sporty looks. Full grain waterproof leather uppers are combined with breathable sports mesh linings and a Soft EVA midsole to provide underfoot cushioning. Thin rubber outsole.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

WINTER BOOT

£95

footjoy.co.uk Keep your feet dry and warm in testing weather. Upper design combines full grain leather with Ballistic mesh while the ProofGuard membrane provides total waterproof quality. EVA Fit-Beds provide everlasting lightweight cushioning underfoot.

FOOTJOY

RRP

footjoy.co.uk

ENERGIZE

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

7-11

AWD XL CASUAL

FOOTJOY

LADIES

£90

footjoy.co.uk Easy Care synthetic uppers offer look and feel of leather and are easily maintained as well as being fully waterproof. Outsole is DuraMax, a proprietary rubber compound that provides turf gripping performance and durability.

HOW MUCH ARE YOUR OLD CLUBS WORTH?

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

£70

TRADE-IN

GET YOUR CLUBS VALUED TODAY



BEST GUARAPNRICE TEE

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 65

What Gear 2017 Shoes MODEL

DESCRIPTION

SPIKED

COLOUR WATERPROOF SPIKELESS OPTIONS

SIZE

LADIES

GREENJOYS

footjoy.co.uk

FOOTJOY

A soft easy care upper design with cushioned insoles and DuraMax rubber outsoles make it a comfortable, durable entry-level shoe. Soft PU linings improve the durability and comfort. Cyclone spikes by Softspikes offer excellent traction.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-12

£55

LUNAR CONTROL VAPOR

NIKE

Featuring a Lunarlon midsole insert and a breathable mesh bootie, it is fined-tuned for lightweight comfort. Outsole created with Nike Articulated Integrated Traction for exceptional stability on various surfaces – plus wide fitting on some colourways.

nike.com/golf Yes

Yes Two-year guarantee

6-14

Yes

LUNAR COMMAND 2

NIKE

Featuring Flywire technology and Lunarlon foam, it provides lightweight cushioning and a locked-down fit. Has a technical TPU midfoot shank for enhanced ground feel on a variety of surfaces. BOA fitting system and wide fitting on some colourways.

PUMA

Revolutionary and proprietary new Ignite foam provides energy return, responsive comfort, stable cushioning, and superior step-in comfort. A new Performance Last provides comfort, fit and performance. Disc closure ensures a snug fit.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

6-14

Yes

£90

cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf/ Yes

Yes Two year guarantee

TITANTOUR IGNITE Comfort powers performance. Revolutionary and proprietary new Ignite foam provides energy return, responsive comfort, stable cushioning, and superior step-in comfort. A new Performance Last provides comfort, fit and performance.

£120

nike.com/golf

TITANTOUR IGNITE DISC

PUMA

RRP

7-12

£130

cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf/ Yes

Yes Two year guarantee

IGNITE DRIVE

7-12

£130

cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf/ Yes

Yes One year guarantee

7-12

£90

PUMA

Ignite Drive brings the proprietary Ignite cushioning technology to golfers at any level for a classic Puma golf silhouette with a sporty twist.

MONOLITE V2

cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf/ Yes

Yes One year guarantee

7-12

£80

PUMA

It has it all – premium materials, lightweight construction, spikeless versatility and extremely good looks.

PUMA

IGNITE SPIKELESS On and off course, they will complement your active lifestyle. Designed with a modern silhouette and inspired from classic golf footwear using a combination of sporty and premium materials, this is a highly functional golf shoe.

66 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf/ Yes

Yes Two year guarantee

7-12

£100

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

SPIKED

COLOUR WATERPROOF SPIKELESS OPTIONS

SPIKELESS SPORT

PUMA

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

SPIKELESS SPORT DISC

7-12

Comfort never quits. An innovative, sporty mesh upper combines with premium leather for a super modern silhouette. Full length Ignite Foam midsole for an extremely comfortable ride. Awesome style – plus it is waterproof, with disc closing.

STUBURT

£100

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

7-12

£100

stuburt.com A blend of performance, comfort & stability, they stand out due to the classic, sporty design. Technical microfibre uppers, cushioned insoles and a lightweight flexible outsole for superb comfort. Traction and stability from SoftSpikes.

Yes

7-12

URBAN GRIP SPIKELESS

£44.99

stuburt.com

Blends performance with comfort thanks to the memory characteristics of the soft microfibre upper, the use of a contoured last mirrors the foot shape, Stuburt cushion technology, lightweight EVA midsole & high-grip rubber outsole.

STUBURT

RRP

cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf/

HYDRO SPORT

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

7-12

CYCLONE BOOT

STUBURT

LADIES

cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf/

Comfort never quits. An innovative, sporty mesh upper combines with premium leather for a super modern silhouette. Full length Ignite Foam midsole for an extremely comfortable ride. Offers awesome style – plus it’s waterproof too.

PUMA

SIZE

£44.99

stuburt.com Superb support and durability. A mid-cut boot, it provides confidence in your footing in the most challenging conditions. Has waterproof microfibre uppers, a padded collar and tongue, EVA midsole and PU heel support for stability, and 6mm studs.

Yes

Yes One year guarantee

7-13

Yes (4-8)

£69.99

THE E HOMOLF OF G MENT IP EQUNLINE O

✔ Major previews and behind-the-scenes updates TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 67

What Gear 2017 Trolleys ADRIAN SAXTON AMERICAN GOLF PRO DERBY STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘There are many advantages to lighter, longer-lasting lithium’ Latest electric and push trolleys have never been better

n electric trolley isn’t an insignificant purchase, so after years of testing them, here’s eight things you need to consider before buying.

WEIGHT It’s essential you’re comfortable lifting the trolley into and out of the boot of the car. Obviously the lighter the better, especially if you also have to carry the trolley from a garage or shed to the car.

FOLDED SIZE Firstly the trolley has to fit in the boot of your car. It’s also worth considering how much space is left for your golf clubs, especially if you use a large cart bag. Also ask yourself: Does it stand up when folded? In our opinion this is really important when it comes to storing the trolley. It’s better to stand it out of the way against a garage wall as it takes up less floor space.

ELECTRONIC FEATURES How much do you really need your trolley to charge your phone or tell the time? If you already have a GPS and rangefinder you probably won’t need it to measure shot distances; but if you don’t Motocaddy is launching a trolley with builtin GPS. Also, UV sensors, USB slots etc all come at an extra cost, so if you’re not o use them much, opt for a more going to basic model.

CHECK THE WARRANTY Electronics have the capability of failing at any time, especially when they’re subjected to rain, grass and mud. So to protect yourself and your wallet as much as possible it’s worth looking at models that give longer guarantees.

SHOULD I BUY A NEW BAG? Some trolley manufacturers offer cart bags that are designed to fit perfectly onto their own trolley bases. Experience tells us not all bags sit well on all trolleys. Check when you buy that your existing bag fits properly – or look for deals with a manufacturer’s bag thrown in.

BATTERY LIFE Whether you go for an 18 or 36-hole battery is difficult for us to answer, but how do you usually play your golf? If it’s one round at a time go for the 18-hole battery. If your playing habits change, buy another 18-hole battery to keep you going for 36.

68 WHAT GE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

BE COMFORTABLE WITH THE SPEED CONTROLS We often hear stories of trolleys leading people around the course, rather than the other way round. Check the speeds before you buy – if your pace is particularly slow or quick, make sure a setting matches.

LEAD ACID OR LITHIUM? It’s a no-brainer for us, and the vast majority of new trolleys sold now come with lithium batteries. We know that on average lithium batteries are £100-plus more expensive than lead acid versions, but there are many advantages to these lighter, longer-lasting power sources, including: ■ Expect lithium batteries to be typically 75% lighter than lead acid ones. ■ Lithium charges faster than lead acid. ■ Manufacturers typically offer a longer warranty on lithium. ■ A lithium battery has a lifetime up to five times longer than lead acid, saving you money in the long term.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ELECTRIC

PUSH

NAVIGATOR QUAD GYRO

BIG MAX

Robust, reliable and with four-wheel stability the Navigator is a compact electric trolley boasting a full directional remote control. Unique anti-deviation technology keeps the Navigator Quad on line, whatever the terrain while twin-calibrated motors and downhill speed control help it take on the toughest courses around.

bigmaxgolf.com Yes

£1,199

COASTER QUAD

BIG MAX

Delivers all the practicality and efficiency expected of a Big Max trolley. Superb features such as a quiet, efficient differential gear system, electronic park brake, variable speed control, distance function and distance measurement make the Coaster stand out from the pack and sets the bar in electric trolley reliability. Available in black or white.

bigmaxgolf.com Yes

£899

HUNTER QUAD

bigmaxgolf.com

BIG MAX

Provides efficiency, reliability and stability on the course. It’s variable speed control, distance function and distance measurement complement the lithium battery technology to provide a practical, stylish and compact electric trolley. Available in white or black.

Yes

£799

NANO DIGITAL

bigmaxgolf.com

BIG MAX

Sporty, ultra lightweight and ultra compact, the Nano Digital is smart and highly functional. This top-of-the-range trolley features a touch display on the handle with speed and battery status, along with hands-free operation, forward and backward drive, removable battery that is integrated into the frame and an additional brake. Available in silver, smoke grey or white.

Yes

£1,899

TERRAIN

bigmaxgolf.com

BIG MAX

The Terrain from Big Max can take on the toughest courses with its reinforced differential and downhill speed control. Whisper quiet 230w motor gives it the power to get up any hill and features such as controlled distance, colour display with speed setting and battery level and easy fold, one-piece frame make this a must have whenever the terrain gets tough.

Yes

£799

BLADE QUATTRO

BIG MAX

The latest in the Fold Flat range combines four-heel stability with innovative folding and storage. All four wheels fold automatically under the body so it stores with ease. On the course it will remain stable on the toughest terrain and has neat features such as foot brake, storage compartment, adjustable brackets and adjustable handle. Available in white, white/red, phantom/lime, phantom.

bigmaxgolf.com Yes

BLADE+ The world’s first fold-flat trolley folds down to just 12.5cm deep, fitting in the car boot with a golf bag on top or even on the parcel shelf. Ingenious storage features, foot brake, handy accessories and colour accents that match the Big Max bag range set this unique, premium push trolley a class apart from the competition. Available in black, black/red, black/lime, white or white/lime.

BIG MAX

£279.99

bigmaxgolf.com Yes

AUTOFOLD FF

BIG MAX

RRP

£299.99

bigmaxgolf.com Fold Flat and Auto-fix folding technology allows the three wheels on this push trolley to flip under its body in one smooth movement and fix in place automatically. This combination, along with storage compartment, foot brake and easy attachment for accessories delivers innovative simplicity and showcases the best of Big Max. Available in black, black/red, white, white/cobalt blue.

Yes

£274.99

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 69

What Gear 2017 Trolleys MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ELECTRIC

PUSH

TI 100 AUTOFOLD

bigmaxgolf.com

BIG MAX

With its fold and fix and auto fold technologies, which enable you to fold and fix the trolley into a compact package automatically, the Autofold offers fantastic value for its three-wheel trolley performance. With stylish lines and compact design this trolley looks good and performs on any golf course.

Yes

IQ+

£179.99

bigmaxgolf.com The second generation of Big Max’s original ultra-compact threewheel push trolley, the IQ+ benefits from a deluxe organiser panel and safe storage compartment along with adjustable bag bracket, hand brake and an easy open mechanism.

BIG MAX

RRP

Yes

LITE III

£229.99

bigmaxgolf.com The Lite III offers the ultimate in three-wheel simplicity. Push on/off brake, scorecard holder, velcro bag straps and robust construction combine to deliver a fantastic value three-wheel push trolley.

£119.99

BIG MAX

Yes

MODEL 8

clickgolf.co.uk

CLICGEAR

A four-wheel patented trolley, setting incredibly high standards. The 4X fold technology allows all four wheels to be folded, resulting in one of the simplest and most compact folded trolleys. In typical Clicgear style, the model 8.0 offers key features that separate it from the competition, including a dual front braking system, completely unique among four-wheel trolleys until now.

Yes

MODEL 3.5+

clickgolf.co.uk

CLICGEAR

The award-winning Clicgear 3.5+ push trolley is at the forefront of push trolley design. It has a super compact folding design with highquality construction making it extremely durable. It also features a storage compartment and can accommodate various accessories. An amazing array of colours is also on offer to suit any taste.

Yes

MODEL 6.0

CLICGEAR

Clicgear Model 6.0 Resort Cart is a unique two-wheel cart designed as a high-end rental cart solution or as a consumer cart with lots of great features. Quality construction, good engineering and innovative design are standard on this new cart from Clicgear.

Yes

£179

clickgolf.co.uk

The Fast Fold Flat Fold is a full-sized three wheel trolley with a revolutionary design. It’s extreme flat fold system allows it to fold down and have just a 20 cm depth, allowing for easy transport and storage. Whilst also having a room for a storage pocket and drinks holder.

CLICGEAR

£199

clickgolf.co.uk

FASTFOLD FLATFOLD Yes

S1 MOTOCADDY

£219

£199.99

motocaddy.com The award-winning S1 features a soft-touch ergonomic handle; lowprofile, quick-release wheels; a streamlined battery tray and superfast Quikfold assembly mechanism. Add these to the nine speed settings, battery indicator and whisper-quiet motor, plus compatibility with the popular Easilock system and it’s easy to see why the S1 is the world’s favourite electric golf trolley. In black and alpine.

70 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Yes

£349.99 lead acid £449.99 stan lith £499.99 ext lith

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ELECTRIC

PUSH

S1 DHC

motocaddy.com

MOTOCADDY

Featuring downhill speed control and the UK’s first electronic parking brake. The S1 DHC incoporates the same popular features as the latest S1 model but can maintain a constant speed while moving down a gradient. A special motor offers downhill braking coupled with an electronic parking brake that will hold its position on even the steepest of slopes. Available in a new graphite colourway.

Yes

£499.99 stand’d lithium. £549.99 extended lithium

S3 PRO

motocaddy.com

MOTOCADDY

Latest feature-packed S3 PRO includes a soft-touch ergonomic handle, streamlined battery tray and hi-resolution colour screen. Other stand-out features include the Quikfold assembly mechanism; Adjustable Distance Control (up to 60 yards), a patented USB charging port, CartLock pin code, advanced battery meter and three distance measurements (drive, round & life). In black and alpine.

Yes

£499.99 stand’rd lithium, £549.99 extended lithium

S7 REMOTE

motocaddy.com

MOTOCADDY

One of the most sophisticated guidance systems in powered trolleys – this brand-new model has a compact, rechargable remote control that stores neatly. Responsive dual-pressure control system lets you alter how much the trolley turns left or right, simply by varying the pressure applied to buttons on the handset. A streamlined battery tray, soft-touch ergonomic handle and new graphite colourway.

Yes

£799.99 stand lithium

M1 PRO

motocaddy.com

MOTOCADDY

Folds over 40% smaller than standard models due a three-point folding system. Has an integrated accessory station; Adjustable Distance Control (up to 50 yards); speed and battery indicators; handle height adjustment; nine speed settings a quick-access device cradle, designed to hold a range of GPS devices that can also be powered from a patented USB charging port. In black and alpine.

Yes

£399 lead acid £499.99 stand lith £549.99 ext lith

M1 PRO DHC

motocaddy.com

MOTOCADDY

Adds downhill speed control and an easy-to-use electronic parking brake to the award-winning features available on the compact-folding M1 Pro model. Standout features include an integrated accessory station, patented USB charging port and compatability with Motocaddy’s impressive Easilock bag-to-trolley connection system. Available in a new graphite colourway.

Yes

£549.99 stand lith £599.99 ext lith

MOTOCADDY

M3 PRO

motocaddy.com Recognised as the world’s most gadget-packed trolley despite its compact-folded size. Features include Adjustable Distance Control (up to 60 yards), a patented USB charging port, full colour screen, adjustable handle height, accessory station, CartLock security pin code, plus distance measuring. A stylish ergonomic handle, whisper quiet motor and Easilock bag system. In black/alpine.

Yes

£549.99 stand lith £599.99 ext lith

MOTOCADDY

S1 LITE PUSH CART Following an extensive upgrade, this feature-packed push trolley now incorporates a stylish soft-touch ergonomic handle and exclusive Quikfold mechanism, allowing golfers to fold or unfold the trolley in under five seconds. Easy-run oversized wheels at the back and an anti-clog wheel housing at the front ensure a smooth ride. A foot parking brake and insulated pouch supports. In black and alpine.

motocaddy.com Yes

M1 LITE PUSH CART MOTOCADDY

RRP

Extremely compact push trolley that folds over 50% smaller than standard models, thanks to the innovative twin-tube frame and triplehinge system. The lightweight aluminum frame (6kg) is supported by easy-run oversized wheels, while an ergonomic handle and footoperated parking brake provide easy control. Accessory station, folding lock and compatibility with Easilock bags. In black and alpine.

£119.99

motocaddy.com Yes

£149.99

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 71

What Gear 2017 Trolleys MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ELECTRIC

PUSH

FW3i

powakaddy.com

POWAKADDY

Boasting a stylish new widescreen display for 2017, the FW3i offers engineered simplicity at the highest level. With its straightforward On/Off button and Power, Pause & Resume function, it oozes simplicity, as well as unbeatable performance and reliability. Boasts a whisper-quiet 200-watt motor and comes with a two-year warranty for extra piece of mind.

Yes

From £499.99 (18 lith)

FW5i

powakaddy.com

POWAKADDY

The perfect option for those relying on added features, but at a midprice point. The new FW5i sports a new full colour widescreen that hosts an Integrated USB charging port and Automatic Distance Function (pre-set distances of 15, 30 and 45 yards). There’s a new Digital Power Gauge and an Enhanced Battery Fuel Gauge. It’s powered by a whisper quiet 200 watt motor.

Yes

From £549.99 (18 lith)

FW7S

powakaddy.com

POWAKADDY

The ultimate in cutting-edge design. The top-of-the-range model is packed with technology and features a full colour 3.5” widescreen display, built-in calorie counter, distance measurement function, a powerful, near-silent 230-watt motor and three-year peace of mind warranty. A USB Charging Port charges smart phone or GPS devices. There is also an optional Electronic Braking System model too.

Yes

From £639.99 (18 lith)

TOUCH

powakaddy.com

POWAKADDY

Based on its patented Touch and Go Technology, the stylish and innovative new model only requires you to rest your hand on the ambidextrous grip and start walking for the trolley to begin moving at the speed you desire. Boasts Deluxe Sporty 11” quick-release lowprofile wheels with a new trim design for a sleeker and classier look.

Yes

£529.99 (18 lith)

TWINLINE 4

powakaddy.com

POWAKADDY

An extremely lightweight push trolley that is very easy to set up and folds down quickly and compactly. Made from a strong, lightweight aluminium frame and boasts a whole host of features, including a foot-operated parking brake plus a telescopic handle for height adjustment. The ingenious three-wheel design gives you the option of pushing or pulling your trolley and also provides extra stability.

Yes

ROVIC BY CLICGEAR

RVIC The most compact and versatile three-wheel cart in the Rovic range. Easy to fold and a bit lighter than other carts. Features solid aluminum and new plastic construction as on a Clicgear cart. The patented folding design, makes for an easy and straightforward fold. Can fit Clicgear accessories. Standard handle-mounted brakes and full console make it easy to use.

ROVIC BY CLICGEAR

£159.99

rovicgolf.com Yes

RVIS

£149

rovicgolf.com Compact and versatile three-wheel cart, it is easy to fold and lighter than other carts. Along with a full swivel front wheel, it features a solid aluminium and new plastic construction as on a Clicgear cart. The patented folding design, makes for an easy fold. Can fit Clicgear accessories. Standard handle-mounted brakes and full console make it easy to use.

Yes

RV2L ROVIC BY CLICGEAR

RRP

£169

rovicgolf.com The new Rovic RV2L is a robust and very lightweight trolley. It’s quick and simple to fold/unfold just by using cleverly-designed pull handle lever. The trolley is comfortable to use with adjustable handle height and has many accessories including a drinks holder and umbrella holder. Will fold down to 74 x 41 x 33cm and when fully opened measures 112 x 98 x 72cm. Available in various colours.

72 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Yes

£139

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

ELECTRIC

PUSH

ROVIC BY CLICGEAR

RV3J

rovicgolf.com A junior-sized three-wheel cart full of features. Can accommodate most junior bags from 26” to 30” bag size and keep it in place when folded. Shares the Clicgear accessory tab system allowing the use of the many Clicgear standard accessories. Uses an easy one-step folding system and the front wheel is fully adjustable. 13” rear wheels make it easy to push. Has a ball clip, cup holder & umbrella mount.

Yes

STEWART GOLF

X9 FOLLOW The latest generation of the multi-award winning X-Series. Originally launched in 2003 as the X1 Remote, the X-Series is recognised as one of the world’s finest remote controlled machines. The X9 Follow is specifically designed as a Follow golf trolley, but as well as its ‘Follow’ mode, the X9 Follow also comes with full remote control functionality that existing customers will be familiar with.

STEWART GOLF

£139

stewartgolf.com Yes

£1,499

X9 REMOTE

stewartgolf.com Specifically designed as a remote controlled machine, the X9 Remote benefits from a low and central centre of gravity and four wheels. This balance is complimented by a world leading electronics system which allows you to control the X9 Remote from up to 50m away, using the latest in Bluetooth technology to connect the machine to the compact handset.

Yes

£999

R1-S PUSH STEWART GOLF

RRP

stewartgolf.com Building on the success of the R1 Push, the new colourful R1-S Push is built by hand in Gloucestershire. Now in with 15 different colour variations, the R1-S Push has been branded “the best push trolley in the world”. Based on a tried-and-tested rack & pinion system, used in cars to turn the circular movement of turning a steering wheel, into the linear movement of the steering rack.

Yes

£199

club

PLAY SAVE WIN club

americangolf.co.uk/club

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 73

What Gear 2017 Distance measuring devices MATT NICOLLE AMERICAN GOLF PRO MONUMENT STORE

BUYING GUIDE

‘It’s rare to play in a group where someone hasn’t now got a DMD’ GPS, laser, micro GPS... which one is best for your game?

PS, range finders and shot tracking tech has stormed the golf market over the last few years, and now it’s pretty rare to play in a fourball where somebody hasn’t got at least one of them. But with so many options available, how do you know which is best suited to your game? Here’s how.

GPS OR LASER RANGEFINDER? In years gone by the choice was between the two, but we’ve heard countless stories of golfers going for the belt and bracers approach and using both a GPS and rangefinder. Why? It comes down to accuracy. As good as a GPS is at telling you how far it is to carry a fairway bunker or negotiate a dog-leg, they cannot tell you how far away a flag is. So if your game is based on hitting short irons and wedges close from 125 yards and in, you need to know precisely where the flagstick is to get your approach close.

HANDHELD OR WATCH? Once upon a time handheld units were the new kids on the block. That was until some bright spark realised how useful it would be to have yardages on a watch. Since then GPS watches have rocketed in popularity. The choice really

comes down to the importance you put on seeing a larger, colour, birdseye map of a hole, and whether or not you like playing with something on your wrist. Of course price comes into it, too, and handhelds can be £100-£200 more expensive.

HOW ABOUT A MICRO GPS? As the handheld GPS market has slowed, manufacturers have looked more closely at what information golfers actually want from their GPS unit. They’ve spotted a majority of golfers just want basic ances, to the front, centre and distances, back of greens and a hazard or two. They’ve pared down the information a GPS unit can show, squeezed it into a tiny plastic box that can attach to a belt or cap, and called it a micro GPS. Yes, the yardages you get are basic. But if we’re honest they are just what most club golfers are after. Oh, and they often cost about a £100, which is significantly cheaper than many others.

WHAT ARE THE RULES? Distance measuring devices (DMDs) of any kind cannot be used in competitive rounds, unless there is a local rule at the particular club you’re playing which allows their use. So check at your course before teeing off in a comp. If DMDs are allowed by a local rule (and more often than not they are), they cannot measure slope (if yours can it must be disabled for competitive rounds). Some GPS watches can also measure your heartbeat, which is against the rules, so make sure this function can be turned off for competitions, too.

ANNUAL FEES OR FREE? When GPS units first appeared on the scene it was quite normal for brands to ask golfers to pay to access their course database after having an initial

74 WHAT GE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

year’s access free. Many GPS systems now come completely fee-free, and for those that don’t (with the exception of some handhelds) you mostly only pay to access premium features. If you need to know why some companies charge annual fees and others don’t it comes down to...

MEASURED OR MAPPED? Some brands employee specialist course mappers who walk every course logging distances on every hole. Most, though, use aerial photography (like Google maps) to measure distances without ever visiting the course. Those that map say their info is more accurate, as it updates changes, and they need to charge for the cost of collating the information.

ANALYSE STATS LIKE A PRO Tour pros like to analyse everything about their game. From how good their driving is to how well they scramble around the greens, every stat allows them to identify and work on areas that are weaker than their competitors. Shot trackers now give you access to very similar information. If knowing how many fairways and greens you’ve hit and how far each shot has travelled is useful for your improvement, you should be looking at shot trackers.

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

HANDHELD

WATCH

MICRO GPS

RANGEFINDER

TOUR V4 JOLT / TOUR V4 SLOPE JOLT

BUSHNELL

They are not only faster than the previous Tour V3, but ergonomically designed and 30% smaller than the earlier generation, so even easier to use. Comes in both slope and non-slope versions, with the slope model utilising Tour-validated Slope Technology to provide accurate actual playing yardages.

Yes

BUSHNELL

Yes

TOUR V4 SHIFT

BUSHNELL

Yes

TOUR X JOLT

BUSHNELL

£TBC

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ Revolutionary Exchange Technology lets you switch between two faceplates on the front of the device; A red one gives slope adjusted distances, accounting for elevation changes to give the most accurate possible yardages; whilst the black faceplate removes this function, making it competition legal.

Yes

PRO X2

£439

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ This incredbily accurate device featurs all-new Slope Switch Tehnology, allowing the user to swtich easily between normal distances and those adjusted using Slope Technology by moving the logo swtich on the side of the device. This makes the powerful device legal for tournament play.

BUSHNELL

£359

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ Bushnell’s next evolution of the incredbily successful Tour V4 model, with the brands all-new Slope Switch Technology. This feature lets you switch between distances adjusted for slope and those that are not, by moving the logo on the side of the device up and down – making it legal for competition use.

Yes

PRO X7

£TBC

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ The most powerful laser rangefinder in the world is accurate to half-a-yard from 5 yards to one mile (550+ yards to a flag). The device also features PinSeeker with JOLT Technology to provide full confidence that you have locked in on the flag and second generation Extreme Speed Precision (E.S.P.).

BUSHNELL

£279 Tour V4 £325 Tour V4 Slope

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ Utilises second generation Extreme.Speed.Precision (ESP.2) and Bushnell’s PINSEEKER with JOLT technology to give instant and accurate yardages. This, combined with the trademark Vivid Display Technology, allowing for perfect clarity, makes this one of the most technologically advanced lasers.

Yes

EXCEL

£419 Pro X7 £459 Pro X7 Slope

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ The latest GPS device from Bushnell. Buidling on the fantastic success of the neo iON, the EXCEL is feature packed like the iON, but with a full front optical mounted colour display for a sleek, modern look and brand new Bluetooth Integrations for easy updates when you’re on the course.

BUSHNELL

RRP

http://bushnellgolf.eu/

TOUR Z6 JOLT

Yes

NEO ION

BUSHNELL

SHOT TRACKER

£TBC

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ Incredibly easy to use, has no membership fees, and comes pre-loaded with more than 35,000 courses in over 30 countries. This extensive course mapping is combined with instant course recognition and auto hole advance, to ensure the device is ready to use straight out of the box.

Yes

£145

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 75

What Gear 2017 Distance Measuring Devices MODEL

DESCRIPTION

HANDHELD

WATCH

MICRO GPS

NEO GHOST

SHOT TRACKER

Yes

£105

GAME GOLF

gamegolf.com

GAME GOLF

A wearable GPS system that captures and displays real game data in a dynamic interface with stats, trends and information you can actually use. Learn what you’re really doing on the course and where you can improve. Using sensor technology, your data is displayed shot-by-shot, hole-by-hole.

Yes

APPROACH X40

GARMIN

Yes

APPROACH S20

£159.99

£219.99

https://explore.garmin.com/en-GB/golf/ A sleek and lightweight GPS that provides more convenience on the course with distances on over 40,000 pre-loaded courses including hazards plus Green View and the new Garmin AutoShot game tracker, which tracks shots and measures distances for post-round analysis on Garmin Connect.

GARMIN

Yes

https://explore.garmin.com/en-GB/golf/ Slim and smart for more style on the course with precise distances to greens, hazards and doglegs on more than 40,000 pre-loaded courses. AutoShot game tracker automatically tracks shots for postround analysis on Garmin Connect. It also doubles as an activity tracker including wrist heart rate tech.

Yes

zAPPROACH S6

£199.99

https://explore.garmin.com/en-GB/golf/ A feature-packed hi-res colour touchscreen GPS with full colour CourseView maps for more than 40,000 courses. Green View feature allows manual pin positioning, Touch Targeting and PinPointer blind shot assistance to provide better awareness of your position on the course during a round.

GARMIN

RRP

http://bushnellgolf.eu/ A pocket-sized handheld device, which can be clipped on to your bag or belt. It provides instant distances to the front, centre and back of the green, as well as up to four hazards per hole. Has over 16 hours of battery life (over three rounds between charges) and 33,000+ pre-loaded courses. Four different colour options.

BUSHNELL

RANGEFINDER

Yes

£349.99

APPROACH G10

https://explore.garmin.com/en-GB/golf/ The one-ounce, 1.6-inch square Approach G10 is designed to clip to your belt or bag, or anywhere you want convenient no-fuss, information and precision.

£129.99

GARMIN

Yes

APPROACH G30

https://explore.garmin.com/en-GB/golf/

GARMIN

Full-colour mapping and Touch Targeting features. Slips into and out of your pocket or mounts nearly anywhere. 40,000 pre-loaded courses. Features Big Numbers Mode for easy-to-read yardage reference to front, middle and back of green. Digital scorecard makes it easy to keep scores for up to four golfers.

Yes

GARMIN

APPROACH G8

Yes

£269.99

https://explore.garmin.com/en-GB/golf/ Sleek, lightweight and durable, with a 3in multi-touch colour display. Precise distances for more than 40,000 courses, with Wi-fi and free lifetime updates. Adds PlaysLike Distances, smart notifications, PinPointer blind shot assistance, plus the Garmin Connect Golf community for sharing and comparing.

76 WHATGE AR 2017 TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK

Yes

£359.99

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk MODEL

DESCRIPTION

HANDHELD

WATCH

MICRO GPS

RANGEFINDER

PT4 GOLFBUDDY

With a larger-than-average 4in screen and Dynamic Green View for distances to the green directly from the angle of approach, the PT4 offers more than most handheld devices. Add in moveable pin placement, digital scorecard and a high resolution touch screen display among a host of other features.

Yes

£319

gpsgolfbuddy.eu

GOLFBUDDY

Features 6x magnification and one-click scan in three targeting modes (scan, standard and pin), making it simple to use and easy to target. Water-resistant, legal for tournament play and an ergonomic body design for a stable grip finish off this most practical of lasers from GolfBuddy.

Yes

z WT5 GOLFBUDDY

Yes

£169.99

LD2

gpsgolfbuddy.eu

GOLFBUDDY

Small, light, stylish and feminine, this ladies gps watch delivers all of GolfBuddy’s gps nous. Distance to the green and to hazards, featuring Dynamic Green View to give accurate distances from the angle of approach, it is packed with features, in a Swarovski crystal embedded, beautifully packaged watch.

Yes

£149.99

CT2

gpsgolfbuddy.eu

GOLFBUDDY

A pocket size, compact handheld with a host of features including Dynamic Green View for distances to the green directly from the angle of approach. With up to 11 hazards per hole and access to GolfBuddy’s database of walked courses delivering the ultimate in accuracy, the CT2 packs a lot in.

Yes

VOICE 2

£99.99

gpsgolfbuddy.eu Delivers hands-free audio distances to front, centre and back of green using Dynamic Green View to give accurate distances from the angle of approach. With shot distances, automatic course and hole recognition and the benefit of GolfBuddy’s renowned ‘walked course’ accuracy, this is a fine compact GPS.

GOLFBUDDY

£239.99

gpsgolfbuddy.eu Showing distance to front, centre and back of the green, distance to hazards and featuring Dynamic Green View to give accurate distances from the angle of approach, this GPS watch provides incredible accuracy and all the data a golfer needs at a glance. Shot distance, digital scorecard many other features.

Yes

SR1

£119.99

skycaddie.co.uk The new-for-2017 SR1 is golf’s smallest and most powerful way to measure distances. Pre-loaded with over 35,000 maps providing dynamic Front-MiddleBack distances to every green in the world with no annual fees, as well as key fairway targets. Measures shot distance, digital scorecard and an odometer.

SKYCADDIE

RRP

gpsgolfbuddy.eu

LR5

Yes

SW2 WATCH

SKYCADDIE

SHOT TRACKER

£129.95

skycaddie.co.uk No fees and ready to play. Pre-loaded with 35,000+ exclusive SkyCaddie on-foot course maps. Hundreds of UK courses updated annually. Accurate distances to front-middle-back of green. Auto-Course and AutoHole Advance and Shot Distance Measurement Lithium-Ion battery for use up to 15 hours GPS.

Yes

£129.95

TODAYSGOLFER .CO.UK WHATGE AR 2017 77

What Gear 2017 Distance Measuring Devices MODEL

DESCRIPTION

HANDHELD

WATCH

MICRO GPS

RANGEFINDER

LINX GT TOUR WATCH EDITION

SKYCADDIE

Golf’s first shot-tracking GPS watch. Includes Smart Tag, 12-month Linx Pro Worldwide Membership plus SkyCaddie Mobile Premium App. Tag and Play, or Auto-Track your shots. Simple to use. Sync data via Bluetooth to SkyGolf360 acc. No annual fees, comes with 35,000+ courses, front-middle-back distances.

Yes

Golf’s first shot-tracking GPS watch system. Includes 15 Smart Tags, 12-month Linx Pro Worldwide Membership plus SkyCaddie Mobile Premium App. Tag and Play, or Auto-Track your shots. Sync data via Bluetooth. No annual fees, comes with 35,000+ courses, front-middle-back distances.

SKYCADDIE

Yes

£259.95

skycaddie.co.uk Yes

TOUCH

SKYCADDIE

RRP

skycaddie.co.uk

LINX GT GAME TRACKING EDITION

Yes

£299.95

skycaddie.co.uk Offers the ultimate in hand-held golf GPS technology. Pre-loaded with 35,000 exclusive course maps, all ground-mapped and updated frequently, the Touch gives complete access to golf course data with your first 12-month membership free. Bluetooth to free SkyGolf 360 App for latest map updates.

Yes

£279.95

TOMTOM GOLFER 2

TOMTOM

SHOT TRACKER

www.tomtom.com

With over 40k courses pre-loaded and continuously updated, the TomTom Golfer 2 shows you the best approach every time. It boasts automatic score cards and automatic shot detection, showing your distance potential and post-game analysis on the TomTom MySports app, plus distances and visuals of the green.

Yes

TOP GEAR 2017 Need more info about the best clubs of the year? Go online for...

✔ Our Top 10 clubs & more ✔ Exclusive video reviews ✔ More details and pictures ✔ Buy-it-now links ✔ Designer Q&As

IT’S ALL AVAILABLE AT...

www.todaysgolfer.co.uk

Yes

£199.99

Buy in-store or online at www.americangolf.co.uk WHERE TO BUY

Find your nearest American Golf store With more than 100 across the UK and Ireland, buying equipment is easy! 1 SCOTLAND Aberdeen: Unit 1 Haudagain Park, Great Northern Road, Woodside; 01224 443335. Bearsden Glasgow: 190 Milngavie Road, Bearsden; 0141 212 6048. Braid Hills: Braid Hills Golf Range, 91 Liberton Drive, Edinburgh; 0131 202 1221. Clydebank: 2700 Great Western Road, Clydebank; 0141 212 6051. East Kilbride: Playsport, Stewartfield Way, East Kilbride; 01355 200010. Edinburgh: 16 Meadow Place Road, Corstorphine; 0131 202 1220. Glasgow: 6 Fenwick Road Giffnock; 08444 99 1954. Inverness: Unit 1, 17 Harbour Road; 01463 210206. Irvine: North Gailes Golf & Leisure, Marine Drive, Irvine; 01294 440003. Livingston: Houston Driving Range, Uphall; 01506 537086. Stirling: Brucefields Golf Range, Bannockburn; 01786 230440. Dundee: 13-14 City Quay; 01382 721466. Livingston: Deer Park American Golf Essentials, Deer Park G&CC; 01506 537997. 2 NORTHERN ENGLAND Aintree: Aintree Retail Park, Liverpool; 0151 559 3881. Bolton: Middlebrook Leisure Park, Horwich; 01204 322309. Chester: 62-66 Boughton; 01244 560262. Hull: Unit 1, Castle Street; 01482 428420. Lincoln: Valentine Retail Park, Tritton Road; 01522 304081. Liverpool: 355b Edge Lane, Fairfield; 0151 203 0897. Meadow Hall Sheffield: Plumpers Road, Tinsley; 01143 211538. Menston: 112 Bradford Road, Menston, Leeds; 01943 660458. Middlesbrough: Unit 5, Middlesbrough Leisure Park, North Ormesby Park; 01642 680387. Middleton: Heaton Park Retail Park, Middleton Road, Manchester; 0161 413 4634. Newcastle: 49-51 Great North Road, Gosforth; 0191 500 6689. Preston: 320-322 North Road; 01772 284030. Stockport: 234 London Road, Hazel Grove; 0161 669 4007. Sunderland: Sunderland Driving Range, Newcastle Road, Fulwell; 0191 500 6690. Trafford: Trafford Golf Centre, Trafford Quays, Old Park Lane, Manchester; 0161 669 4008. Wakefield: Bradford Road, East Ardsley; 01138 879764. York: Unit 2, Julia Avenue Retail Park, Monks Cross; 01904 236723. Moortown: 139 Street Lane, Moortown, Leeds; 01133 222051. Gateshead: Allison Court Retail Park, Metro Centre, Gateshead; 0191 594 7797. Doncaster: Unit 9, Danum Retail Park, York Road; 01302 249294. Crewe: Queens Park Golf Course, Queen Park Drive, Crewe; 01270 440085. High Legh: American Golf Academy, High Legh Park Golf Club, Warrington Road, High Legh; 01925 906460. Malkins Bank: Betchton Road, Sandbach; 01270 449377. Ingleby: Lullingstone Crescent, Stockton-On-Tees; 01642 061280. 3 CENTRAL ENGLAND Oxford: Binsey Lane, Botley Road, Oxford; 01865 593838. Trent Lock: Lock Lane, Sawley, Long Eaton; 01158 964968. Swindon: Bridgemead Retail Park, Swindon; 01793 683397. Stevenage: Unit C1, Roebuck Retail Park, Stevenage; 01438 909788. Biggleswade: Hill Lane, Biggleswade; 01767 660516. Cheltenham: 107B Tewesbury Road, Cheltenham; 01242 500198. Birmingham: Hagley Road Retail Park, Birmingham; 0121 796 0519. Kettering: Kettering Golf Range, Kettering Road, Pytchley; 01536 211234. Leicester: 349 Welford Road, Leicester; 01162 160925. Peterborough: Thorpe Wood, Peterborough; 01733 307763. Wolverhampton: 3 Hammers Golf Complex, Old Stafford Road, Coven, Wolverhampton; 01902 544470. Worcester: Unit C, Lowesmoore Place, Worcester; 01905 673132. Sutton Coldfield: Unit 3, Princess Alice Drive, Sutton Coldfield; 0121 516 8822. Coventry: Central 6 Retail Park, Warwick Road, Coventry; 02476 012138. Derby: Unit 11, Meteor Retail Park Derby; 01332 411841. Merryhill: Unit 12A, Station Drive, Merryhill,

Brierley Hill, Dudley; 01384 880677. Milton Keynes: The Place Retail Park, Eldergate, Milton Keynes; 01908 765630. Northampton: Eagle Drive, Nene Valley Way, Northampton; 01604 212454. Nottingham: Riverside Park, Nottingham; 08444 99 2018. Solihull: 321-323 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull; 0121 270 0636. Stoke: 75-81 Newcastle Road, Stoke on Trent; 01782 367128. Telford: Wrekin Retail Park, Arleston, Telford; 01952 456121. Lincoln: Lincoln Golf Centre, Moor Lane, Thorpe on the Hill, Lincoln; 01522 305080. 4 EAST OF ENGLAND Braintree: Braintree Retail Park, 3 Charter Way, Braintree; 01376 310560. Cambridge: Kingsway Golf Centre & Driving Range, Cambridge Road, Melbourn, Cambridge; 01763 290523. Colchester: Playgolf Colchester, Bakers Lane, Colchester; 01206 580169. Ipswich: Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Country Club, Yarmouth Road, Ufford; 01394 330089. Norwich: 5a Guardian Road, Norwich; 01603 519951. Thurrock: 8 Western Avenue, Tunnel Estate West, Thurrock; 01708 200031. 5 LONDON Greenwich: Greenwich Peninsula Golf Range, 265 Tunnel Ave; 02081 501414. Kingston: 11-13 Coombe Road, Kingston Upon Thames; 0208 0903095. Northwick Park: Playgolf, Watford Road, Harrow; 0208 0903094. Sidcup: A20, Sidcup Bypass, Chislehurst; 0203 8174438. Borehamwood: A1 Golf Range, Rowley Lane, Borehamwood; 020 3819 6014. Chigwell: Top Golf Game Center, Abridge Road, Chigwell; 0208 0903092. Croydon: 175 Long Lane, Addiscombe, Croydon; 0844 499 2198. Hendon: Metro Golf Centre, Barnet Copthall, Champions Way, Hendon; 0203 8196012. London: 12/14 Ashbourne Parade, 1277 Finchley Road; 0208 0903091. New Malden: Beverley Way, New Malden; 0203 8196013. Northolt: West London Family Golf Centre, West End Road, Northolt; 0208 1501413. Purley: 92-98 Brighton Road, Purley; 0208 0903093. Romford: 97-107 Main Road, Romford; 01708 200032. Slough: 175 Bath Road, Slough; 01753 362331. Watford: Top Golf Game Centre, Bushey Mill Lane, Watford; 01923 608831. Trent Park: Trent Park Golf Club, Bramley Road, London; 0208 0900090. Monument: 30 Fish Street Hill, Monument; 0203 3713349.

6 SOUTH OF ENGLAND Bristol: 164 Gloucester Road, North Filton, Bristol; 01173 700836. Hedge End: Unit 5, Hedge End Trade Park, Tollbar Way, Hedge End; 01489 664669. Salisbury: 110/112 Southampton Road, Salisbury; 01722 448744. Rustington: Golfers Lane, Littlehampton; 01903 255441. Canterbury: 26 Maynard Road, Wincheap Industrial Estate, Canterbury; 01227 208499. Basingstoke: No. 5 Wallop Drive, Kempshott; 01256 636756. Brighton: 3 Royal George Parade, Shoreham by Sea; 01273 900640. Camberley: 1 London Road, Camberley; 01276 537193. Eastleigh: Unit 3, Chestnut Retail Park, Chestnut Avenue, Eastleigh; 02380 019040. Guildford: Guildford Bypass (A3), Porstmouth Road, Guildford; 01483 339707. Maidstone: 8 Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, 01622 230096. Newbury: 10a Bath Road, Thatcham; 01635 888100. Addlestone: Top Golf Game Center, Moated Farm Drive, Addlestone; 01932 500749. Maidenhead: Birdhills Golf Centre, Drift Road, Hawthorne Hill, Maidenhead; 01628 560011. Exeter: Bishops Court Retail Park, Exeter; 01392 349181. Plymouth: Plymouth Golf Centre, Haye Road, Elburton, Plymouth; 01752 424508. Stonelees: Stonelees Golf Centre, Ebbsfleet Lane, Ramsgate; 01843 265782. Tonbridge: Tonbridge Golf Centre, Cannon Lane, Tonbridge; 01732 443798. Sandown: Sandown Park Golf Centre, More Lane, Esher; 01372 238280. Hambrook: Common Mead Lane, Hambrook, Bristol; 01174 285100. 7 WALES Swansea: Unit 1, Kingsway, Fforestfach Industrial Estate, Carmarthan Road, Swansea; 01792 344115. Wrexham: Clays Golf Centre Ltd, Bryn Estyn Road, Wrexham; 01978 800533. Cardiff: 501 Cowbridge Road West, Ely; 02920 020513. 8 NORTHERN IRELAND Boucher: Boucher Retail Park, Boucher Crescent, Belfast; 02895 900229. Connswater: Connswater Retail Park, Albertbridge Road, Belfast; 02895 900225. 9 REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Cork: High Street Centre, Wilton, Cork; 00353 212 363 149. Dublin: Tallaght Retail Centre, Belgard Road, Tallaght; 00353 169 50 372; Dundrum: Unit 4, Frankfort Centre, Dundrum; 00353 169 50 374.

HOW MUCH ARE YOUR OLD CLUBS WORTH? ASK FOR YOUR FREE VALUATION TODAY!

PGA Value Guide

Woods Callaway X Hot Driver

£29

Callaway XR Driver

£56

Ping G25 Driver

£58

TaylorMade Burner Superfast 2.0 Driver

£29

TaylorMade M2 Fairway

£65

Titleist 915D2 Driver

£72

Irons Callaway X20 Irons

£63

Ping G20 Irons

£130

TaylorMade Burner 2.0 Irons

£79

Putters Scotty Cameron 2016 Newport 2 Putter

£108

WE PAY

 £79  £82  £41  £92  £102 £89  £162 £112 £135 £41

PRICE BEATEN BY

£12 £23 £24 £12 £27 £30 £26 £32 £33 £27

GET YOUR CLUBS VALUED TODAY GOLF’S BEST VALUE TRADE-IN

Terms and Conditions. American Golf Club members only. Trade-ins accepted on any clubs listed on the American Golf Valuation Guide. Any club (subject to condition), excluding single wedges, can be traded-in against any new club, provided the trade-in and purchased items are within the same category, subject to stock and availability eg trade-in a wood against a wood (hybrids classed as a wood), putter against a putter and a set of matching irons (minimum 5) against a set of irons. Not valid against any pre-owned or ex-demo products. Trade-in value cannot exceed the purchase value of the new product. No credit given. Trade-in is one item for one item (a set of irons is one item). PGA Value Guide price shown on the example valuation table is based on an exchange rate of $1.25 to £1. Prices calculated on 26/05/17. Any club(s) with excessive damage which could affect future performance, or which are unsaleable in American Golf’s opinion, are not eligible. Final valuations will be valid for 14 days. No trade or wholesale customers. The ‘Best Price Guarantee’ means we will match the trade-in value of any authorised retailer subject to written proof of the valuation dated within the last 7 days. Store Manager’s decision is final.