By Scott Kramer
A new year is upon us, which in the golf industry means fresh equipment is heading to the stores. Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll see within the next six weeks.
TaylorMade’s RocketBallz 3-wood ($229) comes with a legal claim that it can get you 17 extra yards, compared to your old 3-wood. It’s no wonder: The 200cc clubhead has 15 degrees of loft. In fact, you might consider replace your driver with it. A sole slot enhances playability and feel, while a 50-gram shaft adds speed. Visit taylormadegolf.com. | |
Nothing on the market looks cooler than Cleveland Golf’s CG Classic driver ($299.99) that sports a throwback persimmon sheen that’s replete with painted faceplate and brass soleplate. And it performs even smoother — the 460cc all-titanium driver hits the ball forever, partly thanks to the ultralite Miyazaki graphite shaft. Visit clevelandgolf.com | |
Callaway’s RAZR XF game-improvement iron and hybrid set ($1,399/graphite shafts, $1,299/steel) aims to enhance performance and forgiveness. The iron features a forged carbon steel body and a thing face that promote soft impact feel. The large-headed hybrids are offset, for higher, longer and straighter shots. Visit callawaygolf.com | |
Adams claims its Speedline FAST 12 fairway woods ($299 each) are the company’s longest, most-forgiving woods ever. A sole slot ramps up distance when you strike the ball anywhere near the sweet spot. Visit adamsgolf.com | |
Nike Golf’s Method Concept putter ($229/belly, $199/standard) is a matter of weighting. That is, its red aluminum front is lightweight, while the rear steel bar is heavy. Collectively they create a high-MOI, small mallet that looks more like a blade at address. Visit nike.com | |
Tour Edge Golf’s 185cc Exotics XCG5 3+ wood ($299.99) has only 11.5 degrees of loft, which means it helps hit the ball far. In fact, you may see tee-shot distance with loads of high flight. A titanium cupped face and crown, plus a heavy tungsten sole plate, translate to forgiveness. Visit touredge.com. | |
Bridgestone’s upcoming B330-RX ball ($56 a dozen) boasts a Dual Dimple Design cover that improves aerodynamics. The inner dimple boosts launch speed, the outer dimple helps the ball land more shallow, adding a lively roll. Visit bridgestonegolf.com |