Puetz Golf - In The Bag

PRODUCT REVIEWS AND EQUIPMENT NEWS YOU CAN USE

Hot off the PGA Show floor, check out these spring 2024 ‘hits’

BY TONY DEAR • CG EDITOR

And we’re back! Since we last met in December, the world of professional golf has continued to be filled with interesting twists and turns. Tiger Woods appeared only briefly at the Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles before leaving after a few holes on Friday due to the flu. We lost local pro legend Bill Tindall. We also lost popular Spokane pro Kim Walker, who passed before our December issue was published. On the amateur side, the USGA announced its decision to roll back the ball (see our Post Game story in this issue), which has opened up conversations both for and against the move.

We’re thankful, then, that the local golf scene has purred along nicely with a growing number of indoor facilities thriving over the winter months. In other good news, Gamble Sands opened early following an almost clement winter.

We’re choosing to focus on the positive, and what could be more positive than the arrival of the 2024 golf season in the Pacific Northwest? Okay, it might not arrive for real until May (even June or July) but it’s coming, nonetheless.

And when it arrives, you may be looking to stock up on the latest gear. January’s PGA Merchandise show in Orlando was an absolute ripsnorter. It was a humdinger, a knockout, corker, and a doozy. The breadth of innovation on view was astounding. Puetz Golf was all over the floor at the PGA Show and super excited to showcase these fantastic offerings for spring 2024.

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1 • TITLEIST

Vokey SM10 1

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $189.99

Bob Vokey’s now-legendary series of Spin-Milled wedges is in its 10th generation, and just keeps getting better. With strict one or two-year product cycles, the differences between one generation and the next might not be significant, but the overall rise in quality over the years has been substantial. The first Spin-Milled wedge was introduced in 2005. Since then, numerous improvements have been made. The SM10 promises a lower, more attacking flight and a solid feel at impact. Something Vokey has worked hard to improve in the SM Series is the clubhead’s Center of Gravity (CG) position. A precise shift in its CG is designed to give players more control and stability. In the 46-52-degree models, the CG is lower, ensuring a more seamless transition from the irons and more consistent distance-gapping. The CG is also pushed out closer to the center of the face, which helps minimize unwanted draw spin. It also makes the club feel more solid. These lower-lofted wedges feature a smaller profile and straighter leading edge. The slightly higher CG in the higher lofts allows you to hit flatter, fast-stopping wedge shots. These clubs also have a larger footprint and a more rounded leading edge which increases their versatility. Every SM10 Spin-Milled groove is cut to the edge to maximize spin and given a heat treatment to double the durability of the grooves. The SM10 is available in six grinds, four finishes and 25 loft/bounce combinations. So, you’ll have no problem finding a wedge that suits you.

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2 • CLEVELAND GOLF

CBX4 ZipCore

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $169.99

Equipment manufacturers have become really good at giving game-improvement clubs a more sophisticated look, allowing higher-handicappers to put great-looking clubs in their bag. They still work like traditional game-improvement models, offering plenty of forgiveness for off-center strikes, but have lost the ungainly, overly busy aesthetic usually associated with game-improvement models. Cleveland’s CBX4 wedge is a perfect example. When the first CBX wedge appeared in 2017, Cleveland said that because 84 percent of golfers used cavity-backed irons, most should also use cavity-backed wedges. The original CBX was certainly forgiving, but its use was largely limited to stock 80- to 100-yard pitches from the fairway. Subsequent models have been far more versatile, enabling golfers to hit more confidently from rough and sand, and even open the face to hit lob shots. The CBX4 Zipcore obviously features Cleveland’s Zipcore technology, which positions the club’s CG further from the heel and closer to the center of the clubface. That makes impact feel consistently solid. The club offers other technology found on the company’s flagship RTX wedges — UltiZip and HydraZip — which ensure deep, sharp, tightly-configured grooves and a laser-milled series of tiny lines on the face to enhance friction between ball and club. This improvement is designed to help golfers gain an advantage in controlling their short games. The wide sole and leading-edge chamfer (a transitional edge between two faces of an object) will help you eliminate chunks.

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3 • SCOTTY CAMERON

2024 Phantom 3

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $449.99

They may not generate nearly as much interest as a Taylor Swift concert, but word of a new Scotty Cameron putter line gets golfers excited. The combination of looks, tech, materials, and precision (with help from Tiger Woods winning so often with his Scotty Cameron Newport 2) has created a mystique around Cameron’s putters that has seen them become highly prized objects. While the Phantom has been available in many guises for a few years, 2024 brings 10 new models. There are four new head shapes, each with various neck options. Models include the Phantom 5, 5.5, 5s, 7, 7.5, 9, 9.5, 11, 11.5, and 11 Long Design – 38 inches. Perhaps their most distinctive characteristic is the now-familiar multi-material construction featuring 303 stainless steel with lightweight 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum. According to Cameron, the 2024 Phantoms are more rigid for additional stability, and thanks to the vibration-dampening qualities of the materials, should have an improved feel. New alignment markings (dots, straight lines, and arrows) help you get the ball rolling on the correct line, and dual-milled faces (first used in 2023’s Select line) reduce mini ridges caused by milling, to give a very satisfying sound and feel. Each putter has two customizable stainless-steel heel-toe weights. The silver mist finish on the steel portions greatly reduces glare, while the 6061 aluminum parts are misted and anodized black. With size and feel of a putter grip being paramount, the Phantom 2024 putters feature a new comfortable Full Contact grip with a chain-link texture.

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4 • CLEVELAND GOLF

HB Soft 2 Putters

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $149.99

While Cleveland Golf has maintained its reputation for building exceptional wedges over the years, its putters have become a notable extension of its shortgame offerings in more recent times. Not only are its putters regarded as top-quality, but they also offer excellent value. The HB Soft was introduced late in 2022, and its successor is as attractive and well-made as putters that are twice the cost. There are nine models built to fit both arcing strokes and a straight-back-and-through motion by assigning the appropriate hosel, shaft, and grip to each specific putterhead. Every HB Soft 2 putter features Speed Optimized Face Technology (SOFT), which uses individualized milling patterns to normalize ball speed across the face. That results in more consistent distance wherever the strike. The milling patterns are aligned to each head shape’s center of gravity (CG), moment of inertia (MOI) and weighting profile. A 20-gram counterbalance is positioned in the butt of the shaft on 35-inch and longer models, helping golfers move the putter more smoothly while doing wonders for their confidence. Based on stroke type and alignment preferences, HB SOFT 2 putters feature Cleveland’s custom-made pistol grips. For a slight arc stroke, the grip has a classic look and allows the hands to turn over naturally. For those with a straighter move, an oversize grip promotes a stable stroke. Also available is the HB SOFT 2 RETREVE, the company’s first-ever putter with the ability to pick the ball out of the hole without bending over.

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5 • MGI GOLF

2024 Zip Navigator AT

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $1,599.99

Sales of powered buggies (walking trollies with batteries) are becoming increasingly popular as golfers realize they can still get the health benefits of walking a golf course without putting excessive stress on their joints. The 2024 MGI Zip Navigator All-Terrain Golf Buggy has an attractive new look with a matte black frame and striking gloss top box, chassis cover, and battery. Other upgrades include a newly designed screen, a wider range of speed options and a powerful lithium battery. The Nav AT comes with MGI’s Gyroscope Straight Tracker Technology, which keeps the buggy on track across any terrain, and it’s packed with additional features that help it traverse courses with significant elevation change. The front wheels swivel independently, giving the vehicle extra stability, and there is a fully directional remote control which allows you to walk to your golf ball and have your buggy meet you there. The downhill speed control minimizes your effort while maximizing control. Twin 230w calibrated motors give the Nav AT both power and agility, while the 24V battery should be sufficient for 36 holes. Of course, in regard to the latter, severe weather and poor course conditions could obviously impact the life of its charge. The quick-release rear wheels handle tough conditions, and there’s a fully foldable rear fifth wheel for added stability. The USB charging port keeps you connected during the round and the T-bar handle and bag support are ergonomically designed and adjustable. The battery charger is included. The Nav AT weighs around 30 pounds without the battery, and 37 with it.

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6 • BAG BOY

Slimfold Push Cart

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $259.99

While a powered trolley is a super choice, the traditional push cart is still a great option for those who like to walk but not carry. That said, there’s really nothing traditional about some of today’s push carts. Take the Bag Boy Slimfold. Not only does it look ultra-modern, its features elevate it far beyond anything your father or grandfather might have used. When folded, the Slimfold measures just 8.5 x 13.5 x 32.25 inches, making it easy to store in your car or a clubhouse locker. Built-in Top-Lok Technology holds your golf bag securely, which eliminates the need for straps and the worry of having your bag fall off the cart. Two simple steps make it extremely easy to fold, and the push handle is pleasantly comfortable. The center console holds your drink, cellphone, multiple golf balls, scorecard and more, while the extra-large accessory bag underneath the handle lets you store gloves, extra balls, or whatever else you like to take with you. There’s an umbrella holder and a parking brake on the side of the handle. The rugged wheels are good in all terrains. The Slimfold comes in six colorways — black/red, silver/black, navy/red, black/white, graphite/white, and all black — and is designed to be extremely compact while remaining functional. We think it ticks both boxes and is the ideal companion for those who want to get their steps in without putting pressure on their spine, knees, or shoulders. Northwest golfers love push carts — this one fits the bill.

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7 • ECCO GOLF

LT1

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $199.99

ECCO’s shoes are known for their style and comfort — both are important to the Danish company’s products. The LT1 is an ultra-light, sneaker-style shoe that uses the company’s new LYTR foam for rebound and softness. The foam is embedded in the sole and combines with the midsole’s soft Phorene material to make the LT1 exceptionally comfortable. ECCO FluidForm Direct Comfort Technology ensures a finely tuned balance of cushioning and rebound in the sole, and creates a flexible, durable bond which conventionally stitched shoes can sometimes fail to deliver. Each part of the shoe has specific amounts of the two materials, and a visible shank delivers low-to-theground stability. The new E-DTS NET outsole is an updated version of ECCO’s Dynamic Traction System and provides multi-directional traction and durability. A waterproof membrane, exclusively developed for ECCO, helps keep your feet dry. The LT1 is made from premium materials including ECCO’s breathable Performance Leather, which is developed in the shoemaker’s own tanneries. The X-Tensa Invisible Technology (yes, there is a lot of weird-sounding tech) connects the sole unit to the lacing system via something ECCO calls “internal enforcement,” which makes the shoe more stable. In keeping with the theme of comfort, its removable OrthoLite insole provides cushioning and breathability. You have a choice of laces, or the BOA Fit System, which for those who haven’t tried it, is an easy way to tighten the shoe. The LT1 is available in four colorways — white/yellow, white/blue, concrete and black.

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8 • TAYLORMADE

TP5

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $54.99

According to TaylorMade, the TP5 is currently the softest five-layer ball on the PGA Tour. That sounds marvelous, and fair to mention it’s currently the Tour’s only five-piece ball. Callaway has offered a couple of five-piecers in the past, but its current Tour model — Chrome Soft — is a four-piece ball. Nevertheless, the TP5 is known for its awesome feel and great spin around the green, with low driver-spin. TaylorMade introduced its original five-piece golf ball (the Penta) back in 2010, and seven years later, came out with its first TP5. The company says the 2024 version is the best to date and is engineered with a new Speed Wrapped Core to give it a lower, softer sound at impact and make the ball faster. It reduces spin with the driver and longer clubs, while generating more spin-control with the shorter clubs. It’s this variability in driver and wedge spin that maximizes the capability of these five-layer balls. The TP5 is for players who prefer a softer-feeling ball that spins a lot on and around the green. TP5x feels firmer and is faster, with lower driver-spin making it the choice of those who appreciate short-game control but whose top priority is greater ball speed − and, in turn, more distance. Because of the low driver spin, TP5x also produces a flatter trajectory. The 2024 TP5 and TP5x Pix alignment aid features a longer centerline and additional color contrast, which is designed to make alignment easier. These will fly off the shelf and be a huge hit on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

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9 • PRECISION PRO

TITAN Rangefinder

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $399.99

We’ve featured a number of excellent Precision Pro rangefinders in these pages before (NX10, NX10 Slope, NX7 Slope) and are excited to introduce you to the company’s new Titan Slope Rangefinder which it says is the new “gold standard” in golf rangefinders. With a robust aluminum shell and a best-in-class IP67 dust and waterproof rating, the Titan is perhaps the most durable rangefinder on the market. The crystal-clear optics, slope switch, pulse vibration, flag lock, and distance-measuring capabilities are fairly standard among top manufacturers’ products these days but (as the name suggests), Precision Pro rangefinders really are precise, as the Titan is accurate up to 999 yards. We’re not aware of any 999-yard holes in the Pacific Northwest, but you may need to get the distance to the clubhouse, halfway house, or nearest bathroom. Integration between the device and the Precision Pro Golf app is utterly seamless and unlocks features that aren’t available in any other rangefinder. The “MySlope” feature gives you a personalized distance based on your unique ball flight, while “Find My Precision Pro” allows you to see the last place you connected to the rangefinder. The Titan has a magnetic grip and comes with a three-year warranty. Precision Pro sees itself as a viable alternative to Bushnell rangefinders, which are commonly regarded as the industry’s best. In an effort to keep pace with the industry leader, Precision Pro offers a free battery-replacement program, a 90-day money back guarantee on all products, and what it describes as “hassle-free” support.

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10 • BUSHNELL

PRO X3+ Rangefinder

PUETZ GOLF PRICE $599.99

Bushnell products have likewise been a familiar part of “In the Bag” over the years. In fact, it’s only been 16 months since the company announced (and we featured) its Pro X3 rangefinder, which was even better than its predecessor — the Pro XE. So, what does the added “+” mean on its latest rangefinder? It has a cool new look and gives you wind speed and direction. Temperature and altitude obviously affect your distances, and these are factored into the Slope measurements to give users an incredibly precise distance. The Home Elevation Adjustment gives golfers adjusted distances based on the elevation of the course they play most often. The Locking Slope Switch allows users to move easily in and out of Slope mode, and the dual display lets you change from red to black based on lighting conditions and your individual preferences. You can magnify the view in the reticle seven times. A red ring flashes and JOLT vibrates to let you know you’re locked onto the flag, and the BITE magnetic mount lets you attach your rangefinder to the cart. The outer rubber casing is plenty durable, and its IPX7 rating means it can be submerged in water up to one meter for 30 minutes without damage. Bushnell quality is always a constant and the Kansas City-based company focuses on the golfer’s needs each year with new releases. On the consumer golf expo tour this year, Bushnell has been burning up the cash registers. Puetz Golf carries this new model and accessories.