By Barry Lotz

Holy Shaft!

15+ yards on mishits, 25-40 yards on center hits = $1200?

The Seven Dreamers Laboratories Golf Shaft is the innovator of the worlds most advanced and expensive golf-club shaft.

Their USP (Unique Selling Proposition) is “Autoclaving”. Autoclaving is traditionally used in manufacturing high-precision carbon products and helps the carbon fiber retain its quality without adding “unnecessary resin and paint or polishing and grinding”. FYI, most shafts are oven-baked.

The autoclaving process is traditionally used for manufacturing high-precision carbon products, including those utilized in the building of satellites and aircraft.

This pioneering approach helps the carbon fiber retain 100 percent of its quality and eliminates common practices used by other manufacturers, including grinding or polishing to achieve weight and flex specifications, as well as adding 3-5 grams of useless paint weight to the structure.

The surface condition of the shaft is perfect – no broken fibers, no fiber tears and no fiber bullets. The resulting design provides golfers with incredibly smooth feel and near-perfect transfer of energy for more distance with tighter shot dispersion.

Gone are the fancy paint color schemes found in most all other shafts that help TV viewers identify brands. This has a pure carbon fiber look with only the serial number and “Seven Dreamers” monogram.

The company offers 28 different bend profiles, ranging from 40 grams to 80 grams, which they identified as the most common bend through thousands of club fittings. However, it is imperative that a customer, to find the correct shaft, will need to be custom fitted at a Seven Dreamers authorized dealer: Seven Dreamers sells its products through select retailers, club fitters and “high-profile” green-grass shops. The shafts debuted in Japan in 2014, and have been endorsed by Masashi “Jumbo” Ozaki, who won 94 times on the Japan Tour.

Our testing group, those who had slower speed swings specifically and average drives of 165 to 175 yards, used the J-50, 40 R High Launch in the new XXIO driver. Overall, every tester was enthralled with the shafts’ performance. On their missed hits, they averaged 15 yards further and center hits increased their distance from 25 -40 yards over their existing drives! They all agreed that the shaft gave them a better and smoother feeling than their current shafts, and they loved the ball flight as well!

Since its introduction in Japan in 2014, and the US in 2017, Seven Dreamers has gained a large and loyal following among the most discerning and affluent golfers. The ultra-premium, custom-fit shafts, which start at $1,200 each (J Global Design series), have been adopted by members of Cypress Point Golf Club, Riviera Country Club, Oakmont Country Club, Seminole Golf Club, San Francisco Golf and Country Club, Southern Highlands, TPC of Boston and hundreds of other golf and country clubs.

For those who must have their very own custom shaft built for them personally, this can be arranged for $2500 and a visit to their Tokyo studios.

“Much like fine-quality, bespoke suits, our shafts are designed to complement the user by perfectly reacting to his or her unique swing profile,” says Shin Sakane, President and CEO of Seven Dreamers. “No other manufacturer in the world has the resources or manufacturing knowledge to create the superior shafts our labs produce.”

Iron, hybrid and putter shafts are also available for the market.

www.sevendreamers.com

Sacks Parente Series 54 Mallet Putters

As it is written and said,” Drive for show and putt for dough”. Not really, here you need the dough to purchase this putter! This putter is for anybody who wants to play better.

At the 2019 PGA Show in January, this company’s booth was consistently busy. There, the Sacks Parente Golf Company, builders of exceptional putters that defy convention, introduced its innovative new Series 54 mallet putter.

The Series 54 features Sacks Parente’s patented Ultra Low Balance Point (ULBP) technology that lowers the balance point along the shaft between the sole and a point not more than 5 inches above the sole, causing the putter head to square and release at impact, delivering exceptional rollout and accuracy. Sure, there was resistance to the pricing, but when one considers what a driver cost these days and how often one uses a driver compared to a putter, rationalizing became a subject of conversation.

 

The ULBP feature is also available in the Series 39 Blade and the Series 18 Cavity putters by Sacks Parente.

This putter performed unbelievably well for our testing group at Torrey Pines and Desert Willow in Palm Desert. It achieved rave reviews. I personally sunk 18 out of 20 putts which I primarily attribute to the putter head squaring and releasing at impact without any manipulation on my part.

 

The Series 54 is available in both a Players Edition ($600) and a Tour Edition ($1200) and features a perfectly flat crown that starts low at the back of the putter and ramps up to the full height of the face to optically eliminate mis-alignment. To further aid alignment, the putter is available with either a Striped Crown (SC) or a Vernier Acuity (VA) crown to help the eyes follow to the target and visually simulate a track to it.

 

Multiple stripes have a history of making visual alignment easier. The SC is designed to help the eyes follow the ramped shape towards the intended target, enabling golfers to line up putts more consistently and make more putts.

 

The VA model was designed for golfers who don’t find the striped crown beneficial. Vernier Acuity is defined as the ability to see dis-alignment between two lines. This is enhanced when the outside lines are of a different color from the inside line and having outside lines slightly thinner than the inside line. Simply put, the Vernier Acuity system will help some players maintain focus on the center target line and make it easier for them to aim, resulting in more putts made.

 

 

Strategically placed tungsten weighting in the Series 54 head creates an extremely high MOI and moves the center of gravity towards the face to counter the detrimental result of gear effect present in other mallet putters. The exceptional weighting and alignment systems will enable golfers to accurately line up and make more putts. In addition, the Series 54 hosel position is offered in center shaft or heel shaft locations. What is very noticeable is that the shaft is very close to the face as possible. 65% of the weight of the putter is in the first third going from front to back.

 

A variety of hosel types are available to meet every golfer’s need. In many models, hosels are replaceable and adjustable for lie angles. The loft is 3.2°

 

Sacks Parente uses a standard head weight of 350-360 grams (350g without the neck, 11-12 grams with the neck) and has focused on technologically advanced shaft and grip design to solidify their ULBP. Sacks Parente shafts have been engineered from the ground up to meet specifications never before contemplated in a putter shaft. These carbon fiber shafts weigh between 30-35 grams, are extremely stiff, and transmit a feel not achievable with steel. Carbon fiber shafts, such as the Olympic shaft used, cost more than most current putters cost themselves. Achieving this level of performance at less than 1/3 the weight of a typical steel shaft is an engineering marvel.

At an average weight of 30 grams, Sacks Parente grips are less than half the weight of typical grips found in today’s market. These unique grips are designed and engineered to enable the ULBP technology and to also meet the SPG specific requirements for feel and comfort. They come in three variations, to meet every golfer’s unique grip style.

ww.sacksparente.com

XXIO Prime Driver

XXIO, pronounced ZEK-si-oh, is not only one of the bestselling drivers in Japan, but has gained a strong foothold in the States since their introduction about 7 years ago. Ernie Els is the brand ambassador and the”Big Easy’s” seemingly slow, but powerful swing encapsulates and aligns with the XXIO brand.

Inbee Park also uses XXIO. The XXIO series has been number one in annual sales in Japan for 18 years since it first debuted.

This 460cc niche driver is highly favored by the male baby boomer and fits, according to Chuck Thiry VP of XXIO’s North America headquarters, almost all women. This driver performs exceptionally well for those golfers, like myself, who really do swing slower (below 90 mph) and for Thiry, the phrase ”easy does it” translates into high-end sales for well-heeled golfers. I personally have gained between 10-15 yards with the XXIO Prime!

Not only will you own one of the most expensive drivers on the market, but you will increase your distance with the XXIO Prime Driver. XXIO is renowned for their use of luxurious materials and quality products.

Amateur golfers, especially the ego centric and well-heeled players usually have very simple tastes in life – only the best!

With their Japanese counter parts spending up to $70,000.00 for a set of custom clubs (Honma), these three products should not have a problem finding buyers. As long as the user gets golf lessons, these products will improve their golf game.

This driver is, for lack of a better word, an absolutely awesome driver in many aspects, but specifically for a player with a moderate speed swing and an open checkbook.

The 252 gram driver includes a 36-gram shaft and a standard 46.5 inch shaft. The 460 cc Prime driver produces high-launching shots that produce excellent distance and balls tend to fly straighter. The Prime is one of those few drivers that produces the sensation of swinging itself. This super feeling comes from the club’s special SP-1000 Graphite shaft.

Additionally, the hosel has been shifted 2 millimeters closer and 2 degrees more upright creating a more rectangular appearance.

The SP-900 shaft, aka the engine of the club, is a TORAYCA T1100G Carbon and NANOALLOY Resin shaft which allows the tip section of the shaft to be extremely soft, which results in the clubhead being able to remain square just at the moment of impact. This effect is so powerful that it can reduce or even eliminate your slice after just one swing.

The powerful Forged Super TIX Plus Winged Cup-face, with 8-2 titanium, is forged from exotic titanium and maraging steel. Married together, the face expands the size of the high COR (Coefficient of Restitution) area in the heel and toe for a wider sweet spot, where you can expect exemplary distance performance. Combined with the new Sole Channel Structure, which allows for better face flexibility at impact – especially in the lower face – the new XXIO PRIME driver provides increased forgiveness to promote faster, more consistent ball speed. The 6-gram weight in the back of the sole helps lower the center of gravity which encourages a higher launch angle and more spin.

The Prime is extremely light weight compared to other drivers. The driver imbues the user with the feeling of confidence at address, together with the feeling you are swinging faster and easier. Shots fly off the face, and as the golf pundits and coaches always say, lighter clubs are faster clubs.

Having personally used the XXIO “X” driver predominantly in 2018, switching to the Prime model, has kept my drives straighter and longer, especially with the Seven Dreamers shaft installed. This is not a knock on the standard shaft, rather just another option to be considered.

The driver is available in both a 10.5° and 11.5° in both a regular and stiff regular flex only. Currently, only right-handed models are available. XXIO Prime officially launches March 1, 2019.

Prime golf balls are also available for $47.99 per dozen.

$849.99                      www.xxiousa.com

Bottom Line: these products truly perform exceptionally well and will improve your golf game to a higher level.

 

Barry Lotz, J.D., Ph.D. is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America. He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America, the California Golf Writers Association, and serves both as a Consultant and Mediator to the golf industry. 

 

He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers”, “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf” which is in the Top Ten Golf Business Book’s bestseller list. His latest book,” The Right Mind for Golf”, released last year, is now in its 6th printing. 

 

In addition, Dr. Lotz works with 14 PGA Tour players on their mental and putting games. He also writes for numerous golf magazines ( LA Times -Golf Living, Golf Tips Magazine, Golf Champion Magazine, Inside Golf Canada, British Columbia Golf, to name a few) and specializes specifically in golf equipment (putter addict) and golf travel.

He can be reached at www.pgtaa.com or  [email protected]

 

 

 

The Most Interesting Products at the 2019 PGA Show

Soon to be in Stores and in your Bags

Part 1

 

This year’s show was the busiest and most well-attended PGA Show I have been to in the last five years. It was interesting to see how the economics of the Show has changed. Especially, as to how previous long-time exhibitors, particularly the smaller vendors, do not have booths anymore but attend the Show to meet and greet their customers. Many exhibitors are sharing booth space, as the cost of exhibiting has skyrocketed. Taylormade Golf did not exhibit this year.

Many of the exhibitors should not be there, simply because their products will never gain traction, are gimmicks, and the owners do not understand that markets create businesses, businesses don’t create markets.

It’s really a great time to be a golfer! The technology, just over the past few years, has changed radically. The key point is that with all the new products, whether balls, irons, drivers, shoes, putters or wedges, you can and must be custom fitted. Take advantage of all the new technology and products heretofore non-existent, and improve your enjoyment and lower your scores.

Drivers today still lead the demand for equipment sales. Now you can find the right shaft and decide what it is exactly what you want out of a driver in terms of dispersion, sound, feel, shot pattern, draw or fade tendency. Seek and ye shall find.

The stars, aka busiest booths of the Show this year, were most definitely Callaway, Titleist, PING, Cobra Tour Edge and the Garmin booth.

I was one of the more than 1,000 media from some 23 countries that reported from the 2019 PGA Merchandise Show.

Every visit to the PGA Show is exciting, exhilarating and really exhausting. There simply is no way that one person can cover all the exhibits, visit with companies and their sales representatives, which in most cases are the owners, in 3 days!

Every year I am asked by my readership what were the best products that caught my attention. The following 3 products, in my opinion, simply stood, head and shoulders above their peers!

As I love to sink putts and know my distances, putters, and distance measurement devices are my raison d’être.

Sacks & Parente Series 54 VA ULBP Mallet Putter – $1200.00 Tour Edition $600.00 Players edition

Both Steve Sacks and Richard Parente know golf. Their experience in the golf business is exceptional.

I know of no other putter, past or present, that features patented Ultra-Low Balance Point (ULBP) technology which is defined as a balance point 5″ or less from the sole of the putter. This balance point causes the putter head to square and release at impact, delivering exceptional rollout and accuracy, enabling you to make more putts.

The Series 54 is available in both a Players Edition and a Tour Edition and features a perfectly flat crown that starts low at the back of the putter and ramps up to the full height of the face to optically eliminating misalignment.

 

Strategically placed tungsten weighting creates an extremely high MOI and moves the center of gravity towards the face to counter the detrimental result of gear effect present in other mallet putters.

Suffice to say, there is a lot more to discuss — especially the accuracy, feel, alignment, shaft component and the two model options available. Wow! What a putter!

www.sacksparente.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Garmin Approach G80 Premium Golf GPS with an Integrated Launch Monitor and Radar.

This unit tracks clubhead speed, ball speed, smash factor, swing tempo and estimated distance. It features a 3.5” sunlight-readable touchscreen display and slim design with quick button access to radar.

 

One of its best features is the practice and game modes which allow you to test your skills and work to improve your game.

 

It also has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 15 hours with GPS.

 

$499.99      www.garmin.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Garmin S10 – K.I.S.S. Keep It Superbly Simple.

You get the distances you need expeditiously and keep your rhythm flowing relative to the speed of play. Extremely user friendly. The battery is long-lasting and the price is $146.36 on Amazon.

Detailed descriptions of the aforementioned products will be covered separately and in-depth in Part 2 of this article.

www.garmin.com

 

There were many other products deservous of acknowledgment, such as those below, and will be covered in a separate article/s.

For clubs, the theme was lighter, faster, more carbon usage and adjustability in clubs. PING’s new G410 Plus www.ping.com , Callaway’s EPIC Flash, Mizuno’s ST190 – www.mizunousa.com, Bridgestone’s TOUR B XW-1 wedges – www.bridgestonegolf.com , Cobra’s King F9 Speedback – www.cobragolf.com, Tour Edge Exotics CBX woods and hybrids, plus Exotics EXS clubs –  www.touredge.com , XXIO Prime 9 driver – www.xxiousa.com , and Titleist TS2 and TSR 3, www.titleist.com , drew the largest audiences.

For balls, Callaway’s new BIGGER Supersoft Magna and ERC Soft models, stood out, as did Titleist’s new 2019-2020 Pro V1 series. The March introduction of a yellow Pro V1, as used by Bubba Watson this week at the Waste management Tournament, is highly anticipated, simply because a yellow golf ball is gaining traction amongst senior golfers who say they can see a yellow ball more easily than a white ball. Bridgestone’s new e12 series of balls will suit slower swinging golfers. Mizuno will enter the golf ball arena with their balls being manufactured by the same factory that produced Nike’s balls.

Digitally speaking, there were a plethora of products from booking services, teaching apps, and measurement systems abounding. As I am not a proponent of using a cell phone on the golf course primarily because it slows down play significantly, my favorite “tech” products are listed below.

For clothing, FootJoy products, www.footjoy.com, is the only place one needed to visit at the Show. They simply produce the best full range of products for the golfer. A newcomer to the scene, Jack Grace, www.jackgraceusa.com, introduced swappable saddles, which allows you to match your shoes to every look you have. And they are extremely comfortable. Women are really going to appreciate these saddle swappables. New Balance still offers the best golf shoes for wide feet – www.newbalance.com. Check out their Striker series.

As for accessories and other useful products, Daphne’s head covers – www.daphnesheadcovers.com  1^St Tee PLUS Energy Bars and Think Jerky, are perennially the most consistent products in this domain.   1^St   Tee is also a platinum sponsor for The First Tee, whereby 1^st last year donated $30,000.00 to 1^st Tee. www.golfenergybar.com. Their beef jerky is to die for! Their Turkey Jerky is delicious. They simply make the best energy bars and jerky. 1^st Tee is the distributor for Think Jerky.

As for Training & Swing Aids, Garmin’s Approach G80, www.garmin.com, the Inside Striker –  www.insidestriker.com, and Swedge Golf training Aid – www.avidgolfusa.com , will all improve your game. If you want to know where exactly on the club you are striking the ball, Strike Spray – www.strikespray.com, provides a coating that can handle from 6-8 swings and cleans up easily.

For shafts, Graphite Designs booth and hitting bay were constantly full. Their new Tour AD VR – designed to “Vanquish all Rivals”, really does! www.prochoicegolfshafts.com.  The Tour AD VR shafts are available in 40g R2, R1 and S flex, 50g R2, R1, S and X flex, 60g SR, S and X flex, 70g S and X flex and 80g S and X flex. It’s hard to find a better shaft.

Also, Callaway FITS Shaft Analyzer garnered a lot of attention. The FITS is designed to provide the best shaft options for a golfer in just 3-5 swings, using the company’s new Callaway FITS app, www.callawaygolf.com/callawayfits. Look for this type of technology to proliferate rapidly. Arccos- www.arccosgolf.com, Shot Scope V2 – www.shotscope.com  and Blast Motion www.blastmotion.com are starting to appear in manufacturer’s grips and recommendations.

As for putters, new and outstanding introductions came from, in addition to Scotty Cameron, Bettinardi, PING, Odyssey, L.A.B. Golf, but none as good as Sacks& Parente’s Series 54 mallets.

Part 2 of this article will encompass golf travel, apparel, and accessories that covered at least a third of the Show’s floor area. Companies such as Rovos Rail – my personal favorite, Halcyon Golf Travel, Premier Africa Excursions, adidas Golf, AHEAD, Antigua, Bobby Jones Apparel, Callaway Apparel, Cutter & Buck, Designer Gloves by Black Level, Dunning, FootJoy, Greg Norman Collection, Hook + Gaff, Peter Millar, Polo/Ralph Lauren, PUMA Golf, Summit Brands (B. Draddy, Fairway & Greene, EP NY, Zero Restriction), Turtleson, Travis Mathew, and Under Armour.

Barry Lotz, J.D., Ph.D. is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America. He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America, the California Golf Writers Association, and serves both as a Consultant and Mediator to the golf industry. He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers”, “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf” which is in the Top Ten Golf Business Book’s bestseller list. His latest book,” The Right Mind for Golf”, released last year, is now in its 6th printing.
He can be reached at www.pgtaa.com or [email protected]

 

By Barry Lotz

Top Ten Golf Products – 2018

1. 2 GG Apparel – www.2ggapparel.com
2. 18Birdies Golf App – www.18birdies.com
3. Callaway Chrome Soft  X – www.callawaygolf.com/balls     
4. Cleveland RTX-4 Wedges – www.clevelandgolf.com
5. Club Glove Travel Bags/ Scheyden Golf Glasses – www.clubglove.com  www.scheyden.com
6. Cobra King F9 Driver  & F8 One Length Irons – www.cobragolf.com
7. Odyssey O-Works EXO Seven SL Putter –  www.odysseygolf.com
8. PING Sigma 2 Tyne & Fetch putters – www.ping.com
9. Seven Dreamers Shaft – www.golf.sevendreamers/en
10. TPT Golf Shafts – www.tptgolf.com     

Each category below contained exceptional products. In addition to those products listed above, which drew the most “buzz”, we have listed below, in no general order, top brands and models in their respective categories.

Drivers:

PING G400/LST/SFT/MAX, Callaway GBB Epic/Sub Zero, Cobra F9, Titleist TS2/TS3, XXIO X, Epon AF-105, Tour Edge EXS

Fairway woods:

PING G400/SFT/Stretch 3, Callaway GBB Epic Star & Rogue, Cobra F8/F8+, Tour Edge Exotics CBX

Hybrids:

PING G400, Tour Edge Exotics, Callaway Rogue, Cobra King Oversize, XXIO X

Irons:

Callaway Rogue, PING G400, Tour Edge Hot Launch 3 Triple Combo, Cobra King F8/One Length, Titleist AP1 718, Cleveland Launcher HB, XXIO X, Epon AF-Tour CB

Wedges:

Bettinardi Golf, Callaway Mack Daddy 4, Cleveland CBX, S.I.C. Custom wedges Titlest Vokey SM7, PING Glide 2.0

Putters: This group had too many models to list from or to pick the top 5, suffice to say, there are many excellent models to choose from each of these manufacturers.

Bettinardi Golf, Scotty Cameron, SeeMore, Odyssey , Evnroll

Shafts: Stability Putting Shaft, Graphite Design Tour AD DI shafts

Golf Grips: This group had too many models to list from or to pick the top 5, suffice to say, there are many excellent models to choose from each of these manufacturers.

Garsen Grips, Golf Pride, Lamkin, SuperStroke

Golf Balls: This group had too many models to list from or to pick the top 5, suffice to say, there are many excellent models to choose from each of these manufacturers.

Snell Golf, Bridgestone, Callaway, Titleist, Vice

Golf Gloves:

Callaway, HIRZL, PING, Titleist/Footjoy

Golf Bags:

OGIO Alpha Convoy 514 Cart Bag

Golf Apparel:

Jamie Sadock, Bald Head Blues

Shoes:

Jack Grace, Footjoy, New Balance

Barry Lotz, J.D., Ph.D. is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America. Visit www/facebook.com/PGTAA to see all the latest mental strategies and equipment reviews. He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and serves both as a Consultant and Mediator to the golf industry. He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers” and his previous book, “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf”, updated for 2011, is still in the Top Ten Golf Business Book’s best seller list. His latest book, “The Right Mind for Golf”, is now in its 7th reprint is available on Amazon and at the Torrey Pines golf course.

By Leonard Finkel

 

REKS, an innovative sunglass manufacturer of performance lenses with unbreakable frames introduced four new high performance Trivex color-boosting sun lenses. These lenses come with a built-in color equalizer that improves the contrast between colors, making them seem brighter.

“Many of our customers have asked us to provide specific lenses for some of their most popular activities,” stated George Granoff CEO of REKS. “We listened to their feedback and are pleased to introduce four new Trivex Color-Boosting Sun Lenses, each with unique features to enhance your visual experience.”

Model include those for:

• GOLF – features a rose amber tinted lens enhanced with a multi-layer silver mirror. Designed to have a lighter tint than a full sunglass lens, this golf performance lens allows more light into the eye resulting in a more precise visual experience. Whether looking down the fairway or reading the undulations of a green, this lens provides great optical clarity under a variety of sun conditions. The color-boosting lens technology improves contrast delivering brighter, more distinctive colors and includes anti-reflective and oleophobic coatings that reduce glare and help keep them free of smudges and dust. This lens has a light transmission of 30% designed for medium light conditions.

 

• FISHING – features a  polarized lens that helps eliminate unwanted glare so important for fishermen or others on the beach, in the car or pursuing any outdoor activities where glare can be eliminated, providing optimum clarity and color enhancement. This lens is designed for bright light, features a blue/gray tint, a sea green mirror and includes anti-reflective and oleophobic coatings to improve performance. The fishing lens has a light transmission of 13% designed for bright sun conditions.

 

• BIKING – features a photochromic lens that darkens in the sun and lightens in the shade. Perfect for bikers out for a long ride during mixed light conditions, this lens will adapt to changing light conditions providing a consistent high-quality visual experience. Under any light conditions, this photochromic lens will increase the contrast between colors making them seem brighter. This lens has anti-reflective and oleophobic coatings to improve performance. The biking lens will darken to a light transmission of 12% in full sun but will lighten to 47% in the shade.

 

• SNOW – helps distinguish between snow and ice. The built-in color equalizer increases the contrast between colors making them seem brighter and more distinct. This full sun lens provides exceptionable vision on sunny days. The anti-reflective coating on the back of the lens and oleophobic on both sides improves performance and helps provide smudge free performance. This blue/gray lens with a hint of violet features a blue/red plasma mirror that greatly enhances appearance. This full sun lens has a light transmission of 13% providing exceptionable vision on sunny days.

 

Every REKS optical frame is manufactured using an unbreakable polymer material and is paired with a shatter-resistant lens, manufactured using either polycarbonate or Trivex materials.

All REKS eyewear carries a 30 day, no questions asked, money back guarantee. All prescriptions lenses are covered by a 1-year scratch protection warranty and a 2-year warranty on the frame against breakage. #BeUnbreakable.

By Leonard Finkel

 

StrackaLine produced its best-in-the-game greens guides for participants in The Match last weekend at Shadow Creek Golf Course in Las Vegas.

 

Two of the game’s legends used StrackaLine greens guides as they competed for a $9 million, winner-take-all purse that attracted the attention of the American sporting public over the Thanksgiving holiday.

 

“The Match pitted two of the greatest players in the game’s history against each other, and they wanted access to the best information available, so were happy to provide them with our greens guides,” said StrackaLine president Jim Stracka. “It was a great event and we were certainly happy to be part of it.”

 

The announcing team for The Match also had access to the greens maps, allowing them to provide insight to the viewing audience on the putts players faced during the 22-hole match.

 

Consumers who would like an exact replica of the book Phil and Tiger used, can email [email protected] ($25, including shipping).  The book will include the hole locations that were used during The Match.

 

The StrackaLine team took its state-of-the-art laser scanner to Shadow Creek, a highly acclaimed Tom Fazio design, and scanned every green, allowing the company to map each putting surface with accuracy down to the millimeter.

 

StrackaLine’s quality and accuracy have led to widespread adoption on the PGA Tour, in addition to their use by more than 300 Division I college teams.

 

On October 15, 2018, the USGA and R&A released guidelines for Greens Guides. StrackaLine is working with the governing bodies to ensure golfers have books that comply with organization’s interpretation of Rule 4.3.

 

StrackaLine now has more than 800 courses scanned, including some of the nation’s most prominent layouts. The greens maps, which feature easy to read arrows, allow players to view contour and fall lines, in addition to slope percentage, anywhere on the green.

 

For more information on how to order a greens guide or have a course scanned, go to https://www.strackaline.com/.

 

Leonard Finkel is the author of The Secrets to the Game of Golf & Life and former editor in chief of Golf Journeys Magazine. His work has been featured in almost 200 publications including Golf Magazine, Golf Digest, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Golf Illustrated, Golf Tips and Player Magazine. He has written more than a dozen cover stories for Golf Today Magazine. He has written extensively about golf and travel and has added poker to his writing repertoire. Finkel also works as a marketing and public relations consultant. His specialty niche is writing advertorial copy. Prior to his career in golf, Finkel owned a chain of retail stores and a consulting and import company based in Asia. He attended the University of Utah.

 

By Barry Lotz

The Seven Dreamers Laboratories Golf Shaft is the innovator of the worlds most advanced and expensive golf-club shaft.

Their USP (Unique Selling Proposition) is “Autoclaving”. Autoclaving is traditionally used in manufacturing high-precision carbon products and helps the carbon fiber retain its quality without adding “unnecessary resin and paint or polishing and grinding”. FYI, most shafts are oven-baked.

The autoclaving process is traditionally used for manufacturing high-precision carbon products, including those utilized in the building of satellites and aircraft.

This pioneering approach helps the carbon fiber retain 100 percent of its quality and eliminates common practices used by other manufacturers, including grinding or polishing to achieve weight and flex specifications, as well as adding 3-5 grams of useless paint weight to the structure.

The surface condition of the shaft is perfect – no broken fibers, no fiber tears and no fiber bullets. The resulting design provides golfers with incredibly smooth feel and near-perfect transfer of energy for more distance with tighter shot dispersion.

Gone are the fancy paint color schemes found in most all other shafts that help TV viewers identify brands. This has a pure carbon fiber look with only the serial number and “Seven Dreamers” monogram.

The company offers 28 different bend profiles, ranging from 40 grams to 80 grams, which they identified as the most common through thousands of club fittings. However, it is imperative that a customer, to find the correct shaft, will need to be custom fitted at a Seven Dreamers authorized dealer: Seven Dreamers sells its products through select retailers, club fitters and “high-profile” green-grass shops. The shafts debuted in Japan in 2014 and have been endorsed by Masashi “Jumbo” Ozaki, who won 94 times on the Japan Tour.

Our testing group, those who had slower speed swings specifically and average drives of 165 to 175 yards, used the J-50, 40 R High Launch in the new XXIO driver. Overall, every tester was enthralled with the shafts’ performance. On their missed hits, they averaged 15 yards further and center hits increased their distance from 25 -35 yards over their existing drives! They all agreed that the shaft gave them a better and smoother feeling than their current shafts, and they loved the ball flight as well!

Since its introduction in Japan in 2014, and the US in 2017, Seven Dreamers has gained a large and loyal following among the most discerning and affluent golfers. The ultra-premium, custom-fit shafts, which start at $1,200 each (J Global Design series), have been adopted by members of Cypress Point Golf Club, Riviera Country Club, Oakmont Country Club, Seminole Golf Club, San Francisco Golf and Country Club, Southern Highlands, TPC of Boston and hundreds of other golf and country clubs.

For those who must have their very own custom shaft built for them personally, this can be arranged for $2500 and a visit to their Tokyo studios.

“Much like fine-quality, bespoke suits, our shafts are designed to complement the user by perfectly reacting to his or her unique swing profile,” says Shin Sakane, President and CEO of Seven Dreamers. “No other manufacturer in the world has the resources or manufacturing knowledge to create the superior shafts our labs produce.”

Iron, hybrid and putter shafts are also available in the market.

A list of authorized dealers: golf.sevendreamers.com/en/shop/agent.

Burton XLT Cart Bag

This is one of Burton’s best looking and functional cart bags they have yet produced.

Burton Golf, part of the Dynamic Brands portfolio of premium golf brands and a name synonymous with quality and workmanship since 1907, just introduced its 2019 Heritage Collection of golf bags featuring the XLT Cart Bag.

The 5.9 lbs Burton XLT Cart Bag combines premium organizational and storage features with a sleek design in classic colors. The XLT transports easily with rubberized lift-assist handles and fits on a riding cart with the cart strap sleeve on top allowing the bag to be fastened with complete pocket access.

The XLT features a 15-way organizer top with full-length individual dividers and a dedicated rubberized putting well integrated into the bag top.

Our testing group really liked the 12 total pockets, including 4 full-size garment pockets and the oversized, insulated cooler pocket, and the towel holder with hook and loop fastener for gloves.

The XLT is designed with nine zippered pockets, including a waterproof, fleece-lined valuables pocket. Comes with YKK premium zippers, an integrated umbrella sleeve and matching rain hood with dual access.

The XLT can all be customized with an embroidered name, monogram, tournament or club logo or combination of two options.

Available in six colorways with or without embroidered customization.

$199.95                   www.dynamicbrands.com

 

Tour Edge EXS Driver

The thrill is back with the EXS driver!

Tour Edge products have been put in play on the PGA TOUR, PGA Tour Champions, LPGA Tour and Web.com Tour, as well as European professional tours, and have been in play in every PGA TOUR major event and in Ryder Cup competitions, leading to over 15 wins for players playing Tour Edge products on the PGA Tours.

In 2018 alone, Tour Edge clubs have earned five wins, eight runner-up finishes, 24 Top 5 finishes and over 40 Top 10 finishes on the three PGA Tours.

Tour Edge R&D paired the superior TSP 910 Beta Titanium face plate with the exceptionally light Carbon Fiber Crown and with additional Carbon Fiber located on the toe of clubhead, allowing weight to be strategically repositioned lower and deeper in the head for optimal spin and creating an extremely high MOI.

The Dual Carbon Fiber Technology also helped Tour Edge engineers to significantly improve the acoustics of the driver and enabled them to account for the gram weight of the FTS weights and the adjustable hosel.

The Flight Tuning System allows adjustable sole weights to be moved to two alternate settings; a 9- gram weight in the heel, 3-gram weight in the rear for lower spin, slice-reducing shape and a medium launch, and then, the 3-gram weight in the heel and 9-gram weight in the rear for medium spin, neutral shape and a higher launch. Additional weight screws can be purchased as a kit that includes 6-gram, 11-gram and 14-gram weights.

The adjustable hosel allows the 9.5 degree EXS driver to go from 7.5 degrees to 11.5 degrees, while the 10.5 degree EXS driver will adjust from 8.5 degrees to 12.5 degrees, making the EXS Driver one of the most versatile drivers on the market. The adjustable hosel also features three upright lie angle settings, giving the EXS driver 16 different settings between the two FTS weights and the eight different loft and lie settings. An Exotics tuning wrench will come at no charge with each driver at the point of purchase.

The EXS 460cc head features premium Japanese exotic metals; TSP 910 Beta Titanium face plate featuring Variable Face Thickness Technology and a 8-1-1 Titanium chassis. The TSP 910 Beta Titanium face has been made even thinner and lighter in the EXS over previous Exotics driver models to produce a greater spring-like effect.

An ultra-premium Tensei CK Blue 2G shaft series by Mitsubishi Chemical is the chosen stock shaft for the EXS driver. Extremely light, yet extremely stable throughout, the Tensei Blue CK features advanced materials like Carbon Fiber and Kevlar mixed with other lightweight materials that weigh in the 50-70 gram range depending on flex. A 50- gram weight will be available in Ladies, A flex and Regular, a 60-gram shaft available in Regular, Stiff and X-flex and a 70-gram shaft available in Stiff and X-flex.

Every Tour Edge club comes with a lifetime warranty and a 30-day play guarantee.

$299.99          www.touredge.com

Cobra F-Max Series Superlite Driver & Fairway Woods

I am the F-Max’s biggest fan!

Let’s start off by saying that the F-MAX Superlite Driver is the perfect solution for players who need the added speed of lightweight design without sacrificing forgiveness.

I carry the original F-Max fairway woods in #3, #5 and #7 lofts. These clubs are the ONLY fairway woods I personally have been able to hit consistently well, especially the #3. It is my perfect club for distances of175 – 200 yards, allowing for reaching par 4’s in regulation! Now with the new models, I see an increase of 10-15 yards from each club! Nirvana!

Building off the success of the original F-MAX family, first introduced in 2017, the new F-MAX men’s and women’s Superlite Drivers and Fairway  woods are significantly lighter overall, providing more club speed, distance and easier launch than ever before.

 

The COBRA Golf F-MAX Superlite Drivers are re-engineered with a 6-gram lighter clubhead, while maintaining an MOI of greater than 5,000, delivering COBRA’s lightest driver head weight without sacrificing stability and forgiveness.  Additionally, a 5-gram lighter shaft, and a 7-gram lighter grip design yield 18 grams in weight-savings, bringing the total overall weight to 287 grams.

 

These lightweight technologies and designs are combined to ensure the fastest club and ball speed performance for moderate swing speeds. The men’s F-MAX Superlite Drivers feature a Midsize LAMKIN REL 360 grip that is engineered using a lighter, softer rubber compound for a lighter swing weight and improved comfort and feel.  Accentuating the weight minimization theme, COBRA’s new Superlite shafts offer the perfect blend of distance, speed and launch.  A lighter profile allows for a faster and more balanced swing transition for golfers with smoother tempos.

 

The following information is derived directly from Cobra:

 

Offered in both offset and straight neck hosel designs, COBRA Golf has created its F-MAX Superlite Drivers with the following industry-leading super game improvement technologies:

 

 

• Oversized Clubhead Shape– An oversized address profile increases forgiveness by reducing twisting of the clubface on miss-hits, for more consistent, accurate drives.
• Forged Titanium E9™ Face Insert – A thin forged 6-4 Titanium face insert is designed with E9 Technology, a variable thickness face structure that enhances ball speed and distance on centered and off centered hits.
• Crown Alignment Feature – A subtle crown alignment design assists players with a square set up at address without being a visual distraction.
• Back/Heel CG Weighting– An internal weight pad strategically positions weight low, back and towards the heel to deliver higher launching trajectories and straighter ball flights.
• Hosel Options – F-MAX Superlite Driver is offered in player’s choice of an offset hosel that promotes a draw-biased ball flight, or in the straight-neck design for golfers preferring a more traditional look at address.

 

 

COBRA’s new F-MAX Superlight Fairways boast the same innovative, weight-saving considerations and game-enhancing benefits as the driver, but feature a low profile, shallow face design using high-strength forged 455 stainless steel to enhance ball speed and launch across the face from a variety of turf conditions.

 

The COBRA GOLF F-MAX Superlite Drivers and Fairway Woods are available as stand-alone products, or as a part of COBRA’s 13-piece Complete Set.  See below for details:

 

• Men’s F-MAX Superlite Driver ($299)– Available in both right-hand and left-hand versions with a 45-gram Superlite shaft in stiff, regular and lite flex. Comes in a sleek black/red colorway.  Player’s choice of offset or straight neck hosel comes standard.  Available lofts include 9.5°, 10.5° and 11.5° in right-hand and 10.5° in left-hand. 

 

• Women’s F-MAX Superlite Driver ($299) – Available in offset only in both right-hand and left-hand versions with a 40-gram Superlite shaft in ladies flex. Comes in a striking black/Lexi Blue colorway and 11.5° & 15 ° of loft.

 

• Men’s F-MAX Superlite Fairways ($199) – Available in both right-hand and left-hand versions with Superlite shafts (55-gram in stiff and regular flex, and 50-gram in lite flex). Comes in a sleek black/red colorway. Available lofts include 16°, 20° and 23° in right-hand and 16° and 20° in left-hand.

 

• Women’s F-MAX Superlite Fairways ($199)– Available in both right-hand and left-hand versions with a 50-gram Superlite shaft in ladies flex. Comes in a striking black/Lexi Blue colorway and available lofts include 19°, 23° and 27° in right-hand and 19° and 23° in left-hand. 

 

• F-MAX Superlite Men’s Complete Set ($1,199) – Comes standard with a premium, full feature cart bag, featuring a 14-way top, 11 zippered compartments including a velour-lined valuables pocket and insulated beverage cooler along with an all new shoulder strap featuring COOLFlow EVA foam for maximum comfort. The set includes the choice of lite flex, featuring an 11.5° driver, or a regular flex set featuring a 10.5° driver.  The standard complete set comes with a Driver, 3W, 5W, 4H, 5H, 6i-PW, SW and a Cobra blade putter.  Available in right hand only in a black/redcolorway.

 

• F-MAX Superlite Women’s Complete Set ($1,199) –Comes standard with a premium, full feature cart bag (same features as the men’s version), 15° – ladies flex Driver, 3W, 5W, 7W, 5H, 6i-PW,SW and a Cobra mallet putter.  Available in right-hand only in either a black/Lexi blue or white/Purple Cactus colorway (**White/Purple Cactus colorway available in complete set only).

 

www.cobragolf.com

 

GoGolf GPS

 

An ideal solution in a very small space. In this world of overly complicated expensive electronics that have found their way into the golfing community with an array of devices that were not only hard to use, but also hard to see and in some instances inconvenient to carry.

GoGolf GPS is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, GoGolf GPS connects via Bluetooth® and gives you the exact distance of your last shot and the distance to the center of the green every time.

All you need to do is to download the free iOS or Android app and install GoGolf GPS on your smartphone and sync wirelessly.

Clip GoGolf GPS  is available in two sizes, the unit can be worn on your cap, visor, shirt, and more. No more reaching for your phone or your device – just tap, listen and swing. It’s also IPX5 certified to be water resistant.

Now you can improve your score without pulling out any devices. You simply press the button on the GoGolf GPS unit and hear the distance to the center of the green and/or last shot.

The GoGolf GPS app accesses over 30,000 global courses, supported in 35 languages, and reports in both audio and text so you’re always prepared, wherever you play.

Order directly from the company’s website:

$89.99                       www.gogolfgps.com

 

PeakVision Sun Glasses – the GX5 model

I love these sun glasses so much that I have worn them every day for as far back as I can remember. This latest model is so very comfortable compared to previous iterations.

This is the first time in the history of sunglass technology that the lens deliver extreme clarity and zero distortion for a much more defined vision on the golf course.

The constructed frame is a composite microcrystalline nylon, has an adjustable nose bridge, and has a co-injected rubber temple grip. My previous versions did not have these two comfort enhancing features.

 

The GX5 lenses employ Dual Zone-Zero Distortions lens technology which provides sports performance with max wrap coverage and lightweight durability.

 

 

The glasses feature both impact-resistant safety and 100% UV400 protection.

 

The extreme difference with PEAKVISION Sunglasses is that the proprietary lens material, which equates to a distortion-free lens with extreme clarity, has the same clarity as ‘crown glass’ which has a -52 abbi rating for clarity. (The higher the number on a negative scale, the better the clarity). Normal polycarbonate lenses are typically in the -14 to -20 area of clarity. PEAKVISION lens provide 2 to 4 times the clarity on that index.

PEAKVISION offers a 30-day, money back guarantee if you are not 100% satisfied.

$120.00               www.peakvision.com

As one can see, this year’s opportunities for gifting are excellent. All golfers will appreciate and welcome any of these products that are sure to enhance their golf experience.

 

Barry Lotz, J.D., Ph.D. is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America. Visit www/facebook.com/PGTAA to see all the latest mental strategies, travel and equipment reviews.

He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and serves both as a Consultant and Mediator to the golf industry. He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers” and his previous book, “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf”, updated for 2011, is still in the Top Ten Golf Business Book’s best seller list.

 His latest book, “The Right Mind for Golf”, is now in its 7th reprint is available on Amazon and at the Torrey Pines golf course.

 

What a great way to spend a weekend!

By Barry Lotz & Terry Ross

The Temecula area – long known for its many award-winning wineries, temperate weather and abundant golf opportunities – is less than a two-hour drive from the Los Angeles basin and about an hour from the major airports in San Diego and Ontario. The Pechanga Resort Casino, on an expansive 550 acres of tribal land, has just about every possible amenity you can think of for a multi-day or even a week-long stay. You never run out of things to enjoy – and we haven’t even gotten to the golf yet!

My very first experience with Pechanga was when our Harvard Business Club of San Diego was invited to preview the hotel in 2002 and attend the golf course opening in 2008 with Corey Pavin.

My, how the times have changed! From having the chef cook for us in a tent, to trapezing around the main building, through the ongoing construction and avoiding the workers.

Now there are two existing towers that have arisen and that are comparable to any Las Vegas casino, or for that matter, any other golf/casino project I have visited. And there have been many.

Southern California is home to many outstanding golf courses and resorts such as Barona, Monarch Bay, Pelican Hill, Torrey Pines, Aviara, Trump and The Grand Golf in Del Mar to name just a few.

Owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, this resort is now the largest resort/casino on the West Coast, and larger than some of the well-known Las Vegas properties like the MGM Grand.

The Pechanga Resort and Casino, unequivocally, has one the best accommodations in Southern California. Their recently-completed $300 million expansion to 1,090 rooms and suites, the addition of a 4.5-acre pool complex, two additional restaurants, a two-level luxury spa with a fitness and yoga studio and an additional meeting/convention space brings the total to 100,000 square foot indoor and another 174,500 outdoor.

The accommodations at the Pechanga Resort have all been remodeled – and those in the newly-constructed towers feature spacious spa studio rooms and one and two-bedroom suites with floor to ceiling windows that have breathtaking views of the mountains and golf course.  The high definition 55” and 65” flat screen TV’s, coupled with the many other luxury room appointments, are the perfect touch for the resort.

There are a full 20 restaurants and bars in the complex, highlighted by the new Lobby Bar & Grill for casual, easy dining and some of the best cuisine available under the direction of Jose Mendoza, the head chef who uses locally-sourced foods for the bistro-style eatery that is easily accessible near the hotel entrance.

The resort’s newest full-service restaurant – the Coveside Grill – is a perfect complement to a day or afternoon at the new Cove pool that rivals anything you can find at a casino resort. The new Cove is almost the size of four football fields with three main pools and five spas.  The main pool is 8,500 square feet and includes 18 in-pool bar stools, swim-up bar, zero edge pool, private cabanas, family beach pool with two waterslides and a private VIP pool and cabana area.

A Spa Day is always something to consider, and the one at the new 25,000 square feet Spa Pechanga is an experience. With a multitude of massage and facial treatments, body wraps, hair and nail salon, exfoliation, couples massage and more, the Spa also offers some time to take a steam sauna, hydrotherapy pool or order something for lunch at the lounge overlooking the golf course and local mountains.

Then there is Journey, the Award-winning golf course at Pechanga that is an outstanding track that can challenge the best players at 7,219 yards, but most will find an adequate test from the White tees at 6,276 yards.  The Pechanga award winning golf course, is a links-style course designed by Arthur Hill and Steve Forrest.

With its many elevation changes that make a round of golf here a scenic delight, players are advised to bring their A-game, since this can be a demanding course that warrants your full attention.

Journey is built into the native canyons and ravines of the south end of the Temecula Valley and features abundant lakes, waterfalls, streams and even the occasional wildlife.

Two of the more intriguing holes can be the two par-5’s on the front nine – especially the 527-yard (from the White tees) ninth hole that demands precise ball placement on all three shots to have a chance at par. The signature Par 4 sixth hole has players teeing off to a fairway below that is a 175-foot drop down the mountain.

The 366-yard Par 4 18th-hole has a spectacular 250-foot drop from the teeing area to the fairway and is a hole you will want to bring your best swing, extra balls, and your camera to capture the scenic beauty of this hole.

Journey, with its breath-taking scenery, is never boring and a fun course that you will enjoy playing more as you get to know its many nuisances. The course is noted for its fine conditioning – and of more than 60 golf courses throughout the Inland Southern California region, Journey at Pechanga took the award for “Best Playing Conditions” for the year ending 2017 by greenskeeper.org. Journey also sits among the top 30 Best Courses You Can Play in California, according to GolfWeek magazine. The course’s director of instruction, Randy Chang is rated one of the top 30 instructors in the country by Golf Tips magazine.

Featuring an excellent staff under the direction of Scott Mallory, the director of golf, you feel like you are at one of the finest private clubs around. Journey’s End, the 62,000-square foot clubhouse, has excellent fare with great views and an atmosphere to relax after a round – inside or out on the patio. It has consistently been voted “Best Brunch” in the region by Inland Empire magazine.  The men’s and ladies’ locker rooms are also available for players and are first rate.

Later in the afternoon or evening, the Casino at Pechanga has a lot of choices for added entertainment. In the more than 200,000 square foot Casino floor there are 130 table games including Pai Gow, Blackjack and many more; a 43-table state-of-the art 24-hour poker room with a 90-seat OTB lounge.  The 700-seat seat ultra-modern Pechanga Bingo room is also a fun way to spend some time as well.

Probably the premier dining experience at the resort is the Great Oak Steakhouse that is famous for its AAA Four Diamond Award and Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. The prime-grade Angus steaks are famous and the atmosphere and service are top-notch and will be remembered for a long time.

The Pechanga Resort also has a full lineup of entertainment options for its visitors, including the Pechanga Theater that hosts A-list performers every week in its 1,200-seat venue.  The Pechanga Summit features concerts and live-action sports, while the Comedy Club offers stand-up comedians on the weekend.  The Eagle’s Nest has dancing on Friday and Saturday nights, while the Casino Cabaret has live music and dancing.

But perhaps the overriding feature at the Pechanga Resort is the constant attention to service from everyone you encounter – from the valets, the concierge, and the staff in the restaurants and bars and at the golf course.  The resort has made customer service the highest priority, and it shows in the ways guests are treated throughout the entire facility.

Making a visit to the Pechanga Resort and Casino is memorable in so many fun-filled, relaxing, and exciting ways.

Hotel rates start at $139.00

Golf rates for Public are $109.00 for weekdays and $139 for weekends.

Golf rates for Hotel Guests are $99.00 for weekdays and $109.00 for weekends

To learn more about the Pechanga Resort or to look at vacation options, visit:

www.pechanga.com

Barry Lotz, J.D., Ph.D. is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America. Visit www/facebook.com/PGTAA to see all the latest mental strategies and equipment reviews. He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and serves both as a Consultant and Mediator to the golf industry. He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers” and his previous book, “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf”, updated for 2011, is still in the Top Ten Golf Business Book’s best seller list. His latest book, “The Right Mind for Golf”, is now in its 7th reprint is available on Amazon and at the Torrey Pines golf course .He can be reached at [email protected]

Contributing writer, Terry Ross, has covered sports as both a print and radio journalist for more than 35 years, and also has served as a consultant to the golf industry in a variety of capacities.

He has been an Editor for Golf Vacations Magazine and a regular columnist for the Long Beach Business Journal, and is based in Orange County, California.

By Barry Lotz

 

The Holiday Season is upon us, so I’ve put together some ideas for products that would make great gifts for golfers. I’ve included several products ranging in price from $8.99 – $620.00. Part Two will appear in November’s issue.

 

Hook + Gaff Watch Company

 

Hand-assembled by expert watchmakers in the Carolinas, each Hook + Gaff timepiece is meticulously manufactured to be reliable in the most adverse conditions.

Utilizing durable materials like scratch-resistant sapphire and lightweight titanium, Michael Sims, Hook + Gaff’s inventor and president of the company, has created a stalwart timepiece to keep you on course (excuse the pun) through the toughest conditions, while exuding a classic aesthetic.

 

One of the watch’s USP (Unique Selling Proposition) is the left-side crown placement. This is a brilliant idea itself. Placing the crown in this manner will avoid wrist irritation, and the crown will not to get in the way of your swing.

 

The scratch resistant sapphire crystal and a custom 41mm solid high-grade titanium case with screw-down crown will give this watch many years of enjoyable service. Intended for long hot days on the course, the titanium case doesn’t conduct heat like stainless steel watches and its antireflective crystal won’t shine bright in your eyes. Water resistant up to 200 meters.

 

This performance-driven timepiece is just as fashionable as it is functional. While other performance watches are bulky, this is a watch that you will actually want to wear because of its timeless, elegant style that can take you from day to night, the course to the office, and even a night out on the town.

• You can easily elevate your style for any occasion with interchangeable options such as woven G10 straps in 10 styles and an Italian Rubber Drive strap in 10+ colors, and hand-stitched leather. The watch itself comes in blue or white dials with white circular hour markers and a striking red second hand. The hands and hour markers utilize Swiss Super-Luminova.

“Hook + Gaff Golf watches are creating a new category of golf watches,” said Sims. “We have meticulously selected features that will make the functionality and style of the watch timeless. A Hook + Gaff Golf watch is not the Rolex that you are fearful to wear on the course and is not the watch that you will need to replace in a couple of years because the features are outdated. It is the watch that doesn’t get in the way of your swing, the watch you can wear without worrying about damaging it, and is the watch you can confidently wear with its refined style.”

Each Hook + Gaff Golf timepiece is packaged in a complimentary, custom tumbler along with a watch guide and personal note from Michael Sims. Most importantly, Hook + Gaff stands behind their product as evidenced by all the compliments and reviews on their Facebook page.

Last but not least, Hook + Gaff also manufactures the highly sought after Sportfisher II Moonphase watch series.

$620.00             www.hookandgaff.com

 

 

What Can You Get A Golfer Who Has Almost Everything?
A Tour Quality Club Fitting Experience

How about a Tour-quality custom club fitting experience from Club Champion, the #1 premium club fitter, builder and retailer of all the best brands in golf? Their master fitters and builders are unrivaled experts and they offer more than 35,000 hittable head and shaft combinations. A Golf Digest study found that 8 out of 9 Club Champion custom fit golfers lowered their scores by as much as six strokes per round and added an average of 21 yards off the tee.

Unique among fitters, Club Champion builds clubs in-house and to exacting tolerances. Variables such as swing weight, length, lie and flex DO alter performance. That’s why Club Champion calibrates their loft, lie, and swingweight machines at each studio to match those in their corporate club-building facility. The experience and know-how combining these parts perfectly together is what separates Club Champion from its competition.

I personally have been fitted twice over a 12-month period. The original fitting was fun and accurate. My clubs felt better, I gained additional yards and lowered my score. So why the second fitting? Major surgery and new products such as shafts, grips and more-forgiving equipment had been introduced. Once again, the fitting allowed me to increase distance and use irons and fairway woods that now matched my new physical capabilities.

World-renowned instructor David Leadbetter explains, “It never ceases to amaze me that golfers buy clubs off the shelf and assume they’re right for them. Whether you’re a great golfer or a casual one, getting a custom club fitting is one of the quickest ways to improve your game.”

A gift card from Club Champion is the perfect holiday gift. What could make a Club Champion Christmas gift even better? A 50% discount!  If your golfer books and completes their fitting between November 5, 2018 and January 31, 2019, he or she will receive 50% off a full bag fitting or 33% off any other custom club fitting. Purchase online at clubchampiongolf.com or call 888-340-7820.

These are the discounted winter promotion fitting prices:

Full bag fitting – $175 (Regularly $350)

Driver or iron fitting – $99 (Regularly $150)

Putter fitting – $66 (Regularly $100)

Prices are for fitting only. Clubs are available for purchase. Club Champion can also optimize a golfer’s current clubs.

To find your nearest location, visit  www.clubchampiongolf.com

 

 

 

 

Golf Rules Quick Reference 2019

 

As of 2019, new golf rules apply worldwide. It is the most major revision of the rules for more than 30 years. Every golfer now has to familiarize themselves with the extensive changes and get a new rules book for their golf bag.

 

The Swiss author Yves C. Ton-That, with his “Golf Rules Quick Reference” pocketbook, has been a leader in this field for many years. The multi award-winning guide contains the solutions to all the rules issues that commonly occur on the golf course and, with more than 1.5 million copies sold, it is the world’s best-selling golf book. It is no surprise that the book is also recommended by golf associations.

 

The completely revised new edition with the rules valid from 2019 has just been published and, like the previous version, it delivers what its title promises. “Golf Rules Quick Reference” explains the rules in a short, concise and easy-to-understand way. A new addition is the brief summary of the most important rules changes on the book’s opening pages that can be used to quickly gain an overall picture in order to benefit from all the new relief procedures.

 

The book is designed for use on the course and therefore has a practical pocket-sized format, water-repellent paper and a protective cover. As each rules case is illustrated, the right solution can be found at a glance and the rules are explained in easy-to-understand language on the basis of specific golfing situations. A particularly practical feature is that it is divided by index tabs that correspond to an actual round of golf − Tee, Fairway & Rough, Bunker etc. Finding the right solution is therefore extremely easy.

 

To sum it up, “Golf Rules Quick Reference” is the ideal companion on the course and belongs in every golf bag.

 

$14.95       Available at www.expertgolf.com, from good golf shops or book stores.

 

 

 

 

 

Can’t Wear Sunglasses for Golf?…Scheyden Eyewear May Have the Answer   

Scheyden Eyewear, known as the finest eyewear in General Aviation, carries its quality, comfort, and function into the golf industry with its latest product release. The ‘Confidence in Action,’ or the “CIA,” golf-specific sunglasses are now available and make an awesome gift!

 

Scheyden, a supplier to the United States Air Force Thunderbird Team, focuses on activities that require the highest quality in terms of comfort, function, and lens clarity. A complete round of golf can be very similar to a pilot flying a 4 or 5-hour mission. Fatigue is always a factor during a long day of intense focus and concentration. Scheyden has brought to the forefront a “golf-specific” frame and lens combination with a level of quality that has not yet been seen in the industry.

 

Jeff Herold, pilot, golfer, and CEO of West Coast Trends, Inc. explains, “Our goal here at Scheyden Eyewear is not to simply impress those who regularly wear sunglasses on the golf course, but furthermore, to impress those that have never been able to wear sunglasses during a round of golf. If you take note of the PGA Tour, more than half of the players never wear sunglasses, primarily because they believe it somehow hinders their game. If we can bring to market a product that will not only protect a player’s eyes, but actually enhance their ability to see and play with confidence, then we have hit a grand slam home run.”

 

The golf-specific ‘CIA’ is handmade in Japan and features a feather-light, incredibly strong, titanium frame with a high definition, dye infused, LT33 polyamide lens. The lens is a decentred eight base, 33% Light Transmission wrap.

 

This lens actually appears to brighten and sharpen your vision on the golf course, yet still provides 100% UVA and UVB 400nm protection. The LT33 lenses are top drill mounted eliminating 60% of the lower frame and allowing for an unobstructed view while addressing the ball. The frame also includes adjustable, oversized, soft, tacky, silicone nose pads that will keep the frames comfortably in place during the most powerful of golf swings.

 

Herold adds, “When blending dyes to colorize the tint on any lens one must consider the reaction that the ‘visible light spectrum’ has on the human brain. After several attempts in blending the dyes, we feel we have found the perfect sweet spot within the visible light spectrum that will create the perfect contrast and colour for the game of golf. This sweet spot will allow the player to put the Scheyden CIA’s on and keep them on during the entire round, including while performing shots in the shade of a tree.” A “sensitive eyes” slightly darker lens within the same light spectrum is on the horizon.”

 

The CIA frame retails at $349. Prescription is available at an additional cost.

 

 

 

 

Get a Grip on Your Clubs!

Golf Pride’s Breakthrough Tour Velvet ALIGN Technology Enables Players to Feel Clubface Awareness throughout the Swing

 

Give the gift of better golf to the golfer on your list this year.  With Golf Pride’s new Tour Velvet ALIGN grips, it is easier than ever before to get your hand in a consistent position swing-after-swing.  And with consistency comes better scoring.  And, for just over $100, they’ll feel like they are swinging a brand new set of clubs.

 

Golf Pride Grips Division has infused the Tour Velvet, the #1 grip model on TOUR, with the revolutionary ALIGN Technology.  The proprietary ALIGN Technology, which was first introduced in the flagship MCC and MCC Plus4 grip families last year, features a dedicated raised ridge that extends down the back of the grip for consistent hand placement allowing a golfer increased clubface awareness throughout the swing and at impact.  With the introduction of Tour Velvet ALIGN, the TOUR’s three most preferred grip models will all be available with ALIGN Technology.

 

Tour Velvet is the #1 grip played on all global Tours, with nearly 50% of the field in any given event choosing to rely on its proprietary feel and proven “plus-sign” texture performance.  Introducing ALIGN Technology to the Tour Velvet may appear straightforward on the surface; however, adding this innovative technology to the gold standard of tour performance grips proved to be more intricate. Golf Pride engineers answered the challenge through advancements in both material and process developments, while ensuring its same world-renowned feel and performance.

 

 

ALIGN Technology activates upon installation with a dedicated raised ridge on the back of the grip allowing for consistent hand placement and an enhanced clubface awareness. ALIGN Technology also features a unique micro-diamond texture and firmer material compared to the surrounding grip area to amplify its pronounced feel. A flex channel separates the ALIGN Technology ridge from the grip body to maximize elevation lift and lock the grip into the fingers, while conforming to the rules of golf.

Our testing group raved about these grips. They loved the feel, the look, and most importantly, the performance.

$8.99 – standard, $9.49 – midsize per grip

 

www.golfpride.com

 

Cleveland Golf’s new RTX 4 Wedges

 

The name Cleveland is synonymous with wedges that perform.

Cleveland Golf remains at the forefront of wedge design, producing short game innovations and technologies since 1979. With the RTX 4, Cleveland Golf held nothing back during development, creating a made-for-tour wedge in its purest form. Utilizing their latest face technologies, tour-preferred shaping, expanded grind offerings, and the most popular components used by Tour professionals, the RTX 4 is Cleveland’s most tour-authentic wedge of all time.

 

The foundation of RTX 4 is the 4^th generation of Cleveland’s proprietary Rotex Face Technology.

 

With the RTX 4, you get more Spin with SHARPER TOUR ZIP GROOVES, MORE DURABLE LASER MILLING and CENTERED ROTEX FACE MILLING.

 

Sharper, deeper grooves slice through grass, sand and water for more consistent spin on every shot. Longer-lasting laser milling brings face roughness right to the conforming limit for more friction and more spin on all shots. Milling that’s in-line with your strike pattern increases backspin on all full, pitch, and chip shots.

 

Following extensive tour feedback, the RTX 4 features a more compact blade shape, with less offset and a smaller overall profile to provide that classic blade design that tour players prefer. Additionally, the RTX 4 offers four new sole grinds, including an all-new XLOW grind, to provide the versatility to execute the most challenging greenside shots.

 

Cleveland’s RTX 4 wedges are offered in a variety of different degrees and grinds. The FULL Sole grind is offered in 56 through 60 degrees, the ●●MID Sole grind is offered in 46 through 60 degrees, the ●LOW Sole grind is offered in 56 through 64 degrees, and the XLOW Sole grind is offered in 58 and 60 degree lofts. The wedges are available in three different finishes, (Tour Satin, Black Satin and Tour Raw) and left and right-handed options.

 

The 46 degree mid sole was used by our testing group. All the testers loved the soft feel, the bounce profile, but most of all, its dart-like accuracy. Many of the higher handicappers loved the ease of use in obtaining distances, vis a vis, improving their short game control.

 

$139.99                       www.clevelandgolf.com

 

 

Let’s face the facts, if you have uncomfortable and ill-fitting golf shoes, you are going to suffer mentally and physically.

 

For myself, personally, finding a comfortable and well-fitting shoe has been a full-time quest. Puma’s Ignite PWRADAPT has proven to be one of best.

PUMA Golf, a leader in golf footwear innovation, design and style, is revolutionizing golf footwear, taking traction to the next level with its cutting-edge PWRADAPT traction system in its new line of footwear. The new IGNITE PWRADAPT collection presents three outstanding designs (IGNITE PWRADAPT, IGNITE PWRADAPT DISC and IGNITE PWRADAPT Leather) to provide golfers with state-of-the-art technology, comfort and stability in three stylish silhouettes.

 

Each of the models in the family utilizes PUMA Golf’s proprietary PWRADAPT sole technology that introduces revolutionary 3-dimensional traction pods and responsive cushioning with IGNITE Foam, utilized in the entire length of the midsole for the first time in a cleated shoe, for the ideal blend of industry-leading technology, style and performance. PUMA’s IGNITE Foam is an ultra-responsive cushioning foam with incredible energy return properties for comfort, support and stability, while the PWRADAPT pods provide ground-grabbing traction and enhanced comfort from tee-to-green, with every move a golfer makes.

 

The IGNITE PWRADAPT family comes with a two-year waterproof warranty.

 

IGNITE PWRADAPT

 

The new IGNITE PWRADAPT provides golfers with the power to adapt to any number of changing surfaces throughout the round. Combined with the full-length IGNITE Foam cushioning platform, PWRADAPT delivers responsive comfort and 3-dimensional traction that seamlessly adapts to the way a golfer moves.

 

The new Comfort Construction mesh bootie replaces a traditional tongue for improved fit, comfort and support, while the PWRFRAME, an ultra-thin TPU frame, is strategically placed in high stress areas on the shoe’s upper for lightweight support and enhanced stability. Available in three stylish colourways (Quiet Shade/Quiet Shade, Black/White and Peacoat/White) the IGNITE PWRADAPT shoes come in sizes 7-14.

 

 

 

IGNITE PWRADAPT DISC

 

Like the traditional lace version, the IGNITE PWRADAPT DISC utilizes the same blend of PWRADAPT, PWRFRAME and IGNITE Foam technologies to deliver multi-surface comfort and enhanced stability golfers will love.  However, PUMA’s proprietary DISC tightening system delivers ultimate convenience with a micro-adjusting dial system that quickly and easily secures golfers’ feet for a locked-in, consistent custom fit.  Available in the same on-trend hues (Quiet Shade/Quiet Shade, Black/White and Peacoat/White) the IGNITE PWRADAPT DISC shoes come in sizes 7-14.

 

IGNITE PWRADAPT Leather

 

The new IGNITE PWRADAPT Leather shoes offer sophisticated style and crazy comfort with a premium full-grain leather upper combined with a mesh hybrid bootie lining for an ideal fit.  PUMA, then combines its proprietary PWRADAPT, PWRFRAME and IGNITE Foam technologies to offer more traction and better comfort across the full range of golf playing surfaces.   Available in classic white/white and black/black colourways, the IGNITE PWRADAPT Leather shoes will be available in sizes 7-14.

 

$170.00                    www.cobragolf.com/pumagolf/men/shoes

 

The Swing Logic EFX1 – Aim, Align yourself and go.

 

Experiencing problems with your alignment? This multi-functional golf training tool, that fits in your pocket, works remarkably well for use with your driver, and especially well to increase your own putting prowess. It is considered a training aid and cannot be used in competition. There is nothing wrong with using it during practice rounds to develop your game.

 

It is an innovative golf training aid that helps you develop proper posture and positioning before each drive or for the putting training aspect.

For putting training, it is the upgraded version of Tiger’s two-tee setup, but the ramped up version. The feedback and visual effect is more pronounced and beneficial. My putting prowess is on the rise with this product!

 

Improved Shot Accuracy

The Swing Logic EFX1 helps beginners, amateurs, and professionals to improve targeting their ball down the fairway up to 30% more, compared to practicing with a tee alone. It is great for youth, seniors and everyone in-between.

Positive Swing Reinforcement

Designed to create a perfect line of reference in your swing path, the golf training tool sits right underneath the ball.  With a low profile, it reduces the change of impact during a swing. By using Swing Logic EFX-1 over time, it will enhance your play. It is perfect to use during practice rounds to develop your game.

Versatile

Lightweight and small enough to fit in your pocket, it helps you expand your ball targeting capability when you’re driving off the tee to help improve your long-distance shot. It can also be used to increase your putting direction control, by placing it on the side of the ball pointed to the desired putt direction.

The product is made from an impact resistant composite and comes in white, pink or yellow with tees. The tees are replaceable from any golf store. The center hole and the retainer clip will fit with about 90%+ of all standard tees out there to include wooden ones. The specialty tees are a little trickier, but standard tees do work with a high rate of success. The Included 6 Tees are from Evolve Golf and are their Epoch model which is one of the most premium tees available on the market.

It really shines on the range too, where you can insert a tee in the center and quickly rotate it with your clubhead to drill on finding a line of approach on the varying angles from your position to the many flags and their position.

You don’t have to hit off of it directly to enjoy the benefits either. Use in front, behind, or beside your balls position, put one near your feet, one at the ball etc…Your imagination is the only limit.

Dimensions: 4.75” x 1” x 0.394”

 

$9.99 for a 3-pack      www.divotisland.com

 

 

 

 

Bridgestone Golf Balls

 

Meticulously designed for golfers who are looking to find their edge, TOUR B Golf Balls represent the most innovative and performance-oriented balls in Bridgestone history. Gradational Core construction amplifies distance through higher initial ball speeds and lower side spin. A proprietary urethane SlipRes Cover formulation equipped with Dual Dimple and Seamless Cover technologies sets a new standard for feel, control, accuracy and performance.

 

How to select Your TOUR B:

 

• TOUR B XLOW handicap golfers seeking FEEL + ACCURACY. Firmer urethane cover reduces driver spin for accuracy off the tee.
• TOUR B XSLOW handicap golfers seeking FEEL + DISTANCE. Softer urethane cover creates added friction for feel and control.
• TOUR B RXLOW/MID handicap golfers seeking DISTANCE + ACCURACY. Firmer urethane cover reduces spin for increased accuracy.
• TOUR B RX Optic YellowLOW/MID handicap golfers seeking DISTANCE + ACCURACY. Firmer urethane cover reduces spin for increased accuracy. Hi-Vis cover color.
• TOUR B RXSLOW/MID handicap golfers seeking DISTANCE + FEEL. Softer urethane cover creates added friction for feel and control.

 

 

TOUR B RX/RXS vs. TOUR B X/XS

 

• TOUR B RX/RXS models feature a new 338 Dimple Pattern to maximize surface coverage and slow rotation for increased consistency and forgiveness.

 

Extra distance and enhanced aerodynamics are a result of the Dual Dimple technology. The added distance comes from a more efficient ball trajectory, thanks to less drag when the ball is in flight.

 

 

 

 

• TOUR B X/XS models feature the standard Dual Dimple pattern for golfers who more naturally control their ball flight and desire workability.

 

 

The X line provides low-handicap players with tremendous spin and greenside control due to a soft urethane cover formulation, while increased distance comes from enhanced aerodynamics and an improved 330 Dual Dimple design.

The enhanced feel of the TOUR B X comes from a softer cover as a result of the SlipRes technology. The TOUR B X gets accuracy as a result of lower side spin from the gradation core construction. Tee through green, the TOUR B X is designed to give you an edge on the course.

Each TOUR B Series golf ball features proven characteristics which continue to make Bridgestone Golf among the most respected brands in the industry. They include:

 

• Accuracy– Gradational core optimizes energy transfer to create low side-spin and high ball velocity for incredible distance and accuracy gains.
• Consistency– Seamless cover design utilizes injection molding technology to stabilize ball flight on all shots.
• Distance– Aerodynamically superior dimple profiles provide different player types with vastly enhanced length and control.
• Feel– SlipRes cover technology increases friction by creating more stability between the ball and club for enhanced control with irons and wedges.

The TOUR B XS Tiger Woods Edition golf ball is a collaboration between Bridgestone Golf and Tiger Woods to benefit the TGR Foundation. With Tiger Woods taking the golfing world by storm in 2018, and especially after his winning the FedEx Cup, Bridgestone is both experiencing and enjoying the sales increase throughout all their ball models.

 

The golf balls feature a custom “TIGER” logo that replicates how Woods marks his competition golf balls and distinct packaging to highlight the charitable benefits and limited, special-edition product. From a performance perspective, the Tiger Woods Edition ball is identical to the standard TOUR B XS model, which Woods currently uses on the PGA Tour.

The enhanced feel of the TOUR B XS Tiger Woods Edition comes from a softer cover as a result of the SlipRes technology. The TOUR B XS Tiger Woods Edition gets distance as a result of increased ball speed from the gradation core construction.

A portion of all proceeds go to the TGR Foundation.

In addition to Woods, Bridgestone Golf’s professional staff includes FedExCup champion Brandt Snedeker, Olympics bronze medallist Matt Kuchar, Masters winner Fred Couples, rising stars Bryson DeChambeau and LPGA stars Lexi Thompson and Cheyenne Woods.

$44.99             www.bridgestonegolf.com

 

 

Happy shopping, happy holidays and enjoy your new toys, equipment and clothes!

 

Barry Lotz, J.D., Ph.D. is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America. Visit www/facebook.com/PGTAA to see all the latest mental strategies and equipment reviews.

 

He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and serves both as a Consultant and Mediator to the golf industry. He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers” and his previous book, “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf”, updated for 2011, is still in the Top Ten Golf Business Book’s best seller list.

 

His latest book, “The Right Mind for Golf”, is now in its 7th reprint is available on Amazon and at the Torrey Pines golf course.

 
He can be reached at [email protected]

By Scott Kramer

PGA TOUR pros commonly strike club usage deals with manufacturers. They get a lot of money up front to play the brand’s clubs all year. While manufacturers ideally like to tie the players to pacts for playing as many clubs as possible, TOUR pros like to keep their options open — just in case a driver or putter, for instance, stops working its magic. So while the money is good, the commitment may not be. Few players go contract-less. Which is what makes 2018 so unique: Brooks Koepka (U.S. Open, PGA Championship), Patrick Reed (Masters) and Francesco Molinari (The Open Championship) collectively won this year’s Majors, yet none were under contract with any club brand. All were with Nike Golf. While Reed jumped to Callaway in 2013, Koepka and Molinari stayed with Nike until it left the club business in 2016. Ironically, both Reed and Koepka still use Nike clubs among their mixed bags. Molinari primarily plays TaylorMade clubs. The outspoken Reed recently said that he doesn’t think any one manufacturer can make 14 perfect clubs and golf ball for one player. He plays a combination of clubs from seven different brands. While all three of these players continue having success as free agents, don’t expect them to ink a sponsor deal anytime soon. Yet as brands begin to assess their 2019 staff rosters, expect them to at least try and court this trio with tempting offers.

 

Scott Kramer is veteran, Southern California-based writer primarily versed in golf and personal technology. Studying Computer Sciences in college, and then working as a programmer/software engineer for about a decade, triggered my passion for today’s high-end, high-tech gadgets. I can’t help myself whenever I see any kind of cool new personal technology. I feel compelled to further check it out and see what it’s all about. And even if I have no use for it personally, I’m always thinking who it might best suit. There are exciting new innovations emerging daily that are shaping the future and simplifying life. And I hope to be your eyes to that world, through the words of this column.

By Scott Kramer 

Watching the 42nd Ryder Cup Championship may well rev up your patriotism. This year’s international competition between the world’s best American and European golfers takes place Sept. 28-30 on the Albatros Course at Le Golf National in Paris. As of late, the event has become contentious, fueling plenty of rivalries among players and countries. That spirit has captivated newcomers, as well.

 

Justin Thomas, the 25-year-old PGA Tour phenom and 2017 PGA Championship winner, says he’s “very excited” to play in his first Ryder Cup. But he’s also finding comfort in treading familiar territory, so to speak: Thomas projects a stylish look and persona, as an ambassador for Ralph Lauren — the apparel company that created and designed Team USA’s official daily uniforms. “It’s going to be a great week, and I know we’re going to be looking great out there,” says Thomas, who adds that the 2018 Ryder Cup Collection “is awesome. It’s a comfort level for me, wearing Ralph Lauren my entire life and now having the brand as the official team outfitter for myself and the rest of the guys on Team USA.”

 

Thomas’ sentiment is shared by the team. And with good reason. The collection has a navy, white and red palette that flows gracefully through an ensemble of polos, pants, sweaters, vests, jackets and pullovers while embodying Americana throughout. Bold stripes and modern color blocking emanate a strong, sporty feel, and are complemented by patriotic logos and graphics — thoughtful subtleties that aim to inspire the 12 Team USA golfers to play as one for their country. The American flag featured on the uniform reflects the official way it’s represented on the U.S. Army khakis — with the stars facing forward. Some Team USA polos also have 12 stars on the collars, each representing a player on the team. Under each polo collar and on the interior waistband of all their pants, “United We Stand” is printed to help galvanize the team’s unity, as well. “USA” is printed down the rear calf of the pants, while a map-camo print of the Albatros Course layout appears on select outerwear, as well.

 

Every 2018 Ryder Cup Collection piece is made with state-of-the-art performance textiles, and is designed to be worn both on and off the course. All fabrics have moisture-wicking attributes and enhanced airflow, to keep players dry and cool. Lightweight trousers incorporate mechanical stretch that move with the golf swing. Layering includes sweaters with Thermocool yarns for moisture wicking and temperature control, a packable 4-way stretch jacket, and a hybrid jacket featuring lightweight insulation.

 

This year’s collection marks just the third time that Team USA’s clothing has been available to consumers. A portion of sales proceeds of the 2018 Ryder Cup Collection benefits the PGA of America’s 41 Sections to help grow and teach the game, as well as the PGA REACH program dedicated to positively impacting the lives of veterans, youth and diverse populations through golf. Polo Golf and RLX Golf collections are available in select Ralph Lauren stores, exclusive private clubs and resorts, and at RalphLauren.com.

 

Scott Kramer is veteran, Southern California-based writer primarily versed in golf and personal technology. Studying Computer Sciences in college, and then working as a programmer/software engineer for about a decade, triggered my passion for today’s high-end, high-tech gadgets. I can’t help myself whenever I see any kind of cool new personal technology. I feel compelled to further check it out and see what it’s all about. And even if I have no use for it personally, I’m always thinking who it might best suit. There are exciting new innovations emerging daily that are shaping the future and simplifying life. And I hope to be your eyes to that world, through the words of this column.