However, with the ZXiR and ZXiR HL irons, Srixon has made a long-awaited dip of a toe into the genuine game improvement market.

While the ZXi4 and its previous equivalents could be considered very user-friendly, it would be a stretch to call them true game improvement. The Srixon ZXiR family steps confidently and unashamedly into that space, designed for maximum distance and forgiveness, so I wanted to test them out to see if they could rival some of the best irons in the game.

Aesthetically, Srixon has done a predictably outstanding job from the 'in the bag' perspective on these irons. The ZXiR range simply oozes shelf appeal.

The two new models blend seamlessly into the ZXi iron family from that angle, featuring premium, cavity back badging and an extremely clean, sophisticated overall look.

The playing position, however, is where things really matter to me, and I have slightly mixed feelings here.

The topline, while noticeably thicker than other Srixon irons, is beautifully executed and is genuinely additive to the feeling of confidence on offer, rather than being bulky for the sake of it. Furthermore, the rest of the proportions and general shaping are also excellent and very much in keeping with what I have come to expect from one of my favorite iron manufacturers in the game.

For me, however, while the standard model just treads the right side of the line, in my opinion, the HL model features a little too much offset, which is more noticeable in the mid-long irons.

I get it, I do. The function of offset is primarily to help stop the right miss or the slice by allowing the leading edge a fraction of a second longer to catch up and reach square through impact; however, not everyone shopping in this market has that right miss. In fact, plenty of high handicap amateurs I play with have the exact opposite tendency and pull their irons.

As such, the fairly hefty offset on show here might actually be prohibitive to a good proportion of the target audience. However, that is a relatively minor point.

On to more positive notes, from a sound and feel point of view, this iron is as good as anything I have tried in the game improvement category, and a far cry from the clunky, harsh feels of yesteryear.

The construction uses i-ALLOY, a brand-new steel that is significantly softer than the 431 steel commonly used in this category, and it is very effective.

Although it is, as you would expect, a touch livelier off the face than, say, the more refined ZXi7 iron, the ball still melts into the face beautifully and offers great feedback from centered strikes. In addition, the levels of forgiveness off-center in terms of feel are of the highest order, with even some very severe toe strikes that would ordinarily sting a little, feeling almost subdued through my hands.

Srixon’s Mainframe technology is no doubt behind this success. This clever internal feature saves and redistributes additional weight, adding more MOI (Moment of Inertia) through an enhanced milled pattern on the back side of the iron face.

With this particular iteration of Mainframe, Srixon highlighted a predominant miss for the high handicap player being low in the face, and has added support specifically in that area.

Something I was thrilled to see make the cut in the design room was the Tour V.T. sole, which is the envy of many a manufacturer.

Although the sole width has massively increased, as you would expect on a game improvement iron (which flattens the pitch of the V sole a touch), this has been carefully thought about in other areas of camber on the sole, making it something of a 'modified' Tour V.T. sole.

I have to say it is an absolute triumph, operating like the bottom of a boat through choppy seas, gliding through with an ease I haven't felt in the game improvement category before.

From a performance standpoint, the standard ZXiR irons are absolute rocket launchers in terms of ball speed, exceeding almost anything else I have tried in the game improvement sector. However, that must be caveated with the fact that the lofts are very strong, with the pitching wedge coming in at 43˚ and the 7-iron at an eye-watering 28.5˚.

In truth, this worked impressively for me in terms of my own Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor numbers, but I swing a 7-iron at approximately 100 mph, so launch isn’t an issue for me. I would have serious concerns about slower players being able to generate enough height to make them an effective choice in some conditions.

This is most likely why Srixon has created the ZXiR HL (High Launch) version to complement the extremely powerful, low-lofted standard model.

For context, the HL version is exactly the same in terms of its core technologies, with the only differences (aside from the additional loft) being a fractionally longer blade length and (sadly for me) more offset.

The HL version offered me an entirely different launch window, with significantly more spin, and, crucially, nearly 30 feet more peak height, something not to be sniffed at for the low-ball hitters among you.

While the standard ZXiR lofts get a little bunched (only 2.5° difference by the time you get to the top of the bag), the HL version has its lofts spaced much more evenly, along with being significantly weaker (as much as 4° at points in the set) to assist with launch.

Personally, while I totally see the necessity for the strong-lofted standard model in the range to compete with distance irons such as the Cobra DS-Adapt and the Titleist T350 on the distance front, based on my experience, more high handicap players would see actual, genuine game improvement from the HL model, as opposed to just distance improvement.

Overall, I really like this first foray into genuine game improvement from Srixon, and I think it is a very smart move to offer the two models.

For the player who maybe has a touch more speed and generates a little more dynamic loft, the ZXiR will be a great fit to maximize distance output.

However, I see the ZXiR HL offering more players tangible game improvement qualities, such as height and stopping power, if they can avoid becoming bedazzled by that often misleading total distance number in the fitting bay. On the whole, I think these are excellent additions to the ZXi lineup.

What struck me first about the Tour head was its distinctly smaller footprint and the beautifully rounded sole that sits flush to the turf. It sits compactly behind the ball, offering a slightly deeper face profile that just screams workability and, in my opinion, rivals the looks of some of the best fairway woods on the market.

The High-Strength carbon fiber crown gives it a premium, modern look, a recurring signature in PXG’s recent designs. This shaping is exactly what I want in a fairway wood that I plan to use equally off the tee and the turf, as I look for a club that feels like you can manoeuvre the ball whichever way you please.

PXG has packed some interesting innovations into this metalwood, particularly the new Progressive Face Geometry, which features in both models. Unlike many fairways that use a consistent bulge and roll across all lofts, the Lightning woods tailor the face curvature based on the loft.

Since lower lofts tend to require more correction for heel and toe strikes, the 3-wood gets more curve, while the higher-lofts get less. When out on the golf course, this paid off immediately on off-center strikes, keeping the ball on a much tighter line than I initially expected, albeit not as much as the standard Lightning fairway wood, which proved to be extremely forgiving.

The second key development with this fairway wood is the faster, thinner face design. PXG claims the perimeter is 12.5% thinner than the previous Black Ops 0311 model, translating to 4% more face flex. This is a bold claim, although I did see a jump of around 2mph ball speed compared to the model released a few years back.

During my testing using a Foresight GC3 launch monitor, the ball speed was really impressive. I averaged a strong 157.8 mph ball speed, a small but still significant jump compared to the standard model. But speed is only part of the equation as control is key in any Tour model, and so the combination of the compact head shape and the precision weighting system helped me achieve the ball flight I was looking for - penetrating and in control.

Crucially, the spin dropped a couple of hundred rpm compared to the standard Lightning fairway wood, allowing me to settle in at an average spin rate just over the 3000rpm mark when hitting from the deck and even a fraction lower than that off a tee.

This lower spin, combined with the higher launch from the forgiving tech, is the sweet spot for maximum distance and control and made it a perfect alternative to a driver from the tee when playing slightly tighter driving holes.

The Precision Weighting Technology in the Tour model features one heavy (10g) and one light (2.5g) adjustable weight port positioned forward and back, which allows you to dial in a preferred trajectory. When switching the heavier weight to the back, I saw around 200rpm more spin and a slightly higher ball flight due to the change in CG placement, but since then, I have kept it with the heavy weight forward produced the desired penetrating flight and low spin I saw in my test numbers.

Overall, the PXG Lightning Tour fairway wood produced really impressive distance with control, all in a compact, deeper face-shaped head. While I don’t think in the past I would have used a PXG fairway wood because of the squarer footprint and lack of ball speed, the Lightning Tour could easily find its way into my bag this year, and I think it will provide some healthy competition from some of the other manufacturers' lower-spinning models.

Both PXG Lightning fairway wood models are now available online and in recognized PXG retail stores for $379.

As a golfer who prioritizes a powerful, solid feel, I was eager to get the standard Lightning model ($379) out on the course and see if it could deliver on its promise of ‘electrifying power and distance’ and become recognized as one of the best fairway woods on the market.

The Lightning family gives players two distinct head shapes, which immediately created a conflict for me. The standard Lightning head is confidence-inspiring when down behind the ball at address, presenting a square and shallow face with a focus on perimeter weighting for maximum forgiveness. It’s designed to look easy to hit, and in my opinion, it certainly achieves that.

However, if you’re a more confident ball striker who likes to work the ball or wants to see a more penetrating ball flight, then you’ll want to turn your head to the Lightning Tour fairway wood.

Ultimately, I had to put the looks aside and focus on what the standard Lightning was built to do, which is deliver consistency. The high-strength carbon fiber crown gives the whole package a premium, modern, yet stealthy look that PXG is famous for, allowing mass to be pushed low and back for stability. The lower CG placement on this head also delivers an ease of launch from the fairway - a trait typically found in the more forgiving fairway wood options from each manufacturer.

The feedback from the proprietary face material, which is engineered to be thinner and 4% more flexible than the previous Black Ops model, offers a powerful sensation through the hit, and the acoustics match it. It’s on the louder side of the spectrum, but if you want a fairway wood that sounds fast off the face, then the Lightning certainly delivers.

On a solid strike, I saw ball speeds hovering around the 157mph mark, which was a marginal gain of 1mph over the 0311 Black Ops fairway wood. The spined sole design, which PXG claims is crucial for maximum energy transfer, seemed to be working on those shots hit well, but even off-center hits retain that incredible solidity, which is a massive confidence booster when trying to reach par-5s with trouble that lingers short of the green.

The technology packed into this head is all geared towards consistency, with the biggest standout feature being the new Progressive Face Geometry. This is a clever idea where the engineers have adjusted the bulge and roll curvature based on the loft.

My lightning 3-wood (15°) has more corrective curvature to keep mishits on line, while higher-lofted options have less. This helps deliver an incredibly tight dispersion pattern, which was something I noticed, particularly from front-to-back dispersion, where in 13 measured shots using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, I saw less than two yards difference!

PXG has carried on the Precision Weighting System that has been used in previous models, with the standard Lightning offering three ports (back, toe, and heel), giving exceptional directional bias adjustability. If you’re struggling with a left-to-right miss, you could switch the heavier weight into the heel to help promote face rotation, as well as use the hosel to change loft and ever so slightly, face direction.

While cosmetically, I don’t see a whole lot of change between the Lightning and the previous 0311 model, the performance was where the Lightning shone. Faster ball speed equated to more distance, and the playable nature and forgiveness from mishits, I think, will see this club become extremely popular, particularly with mid-handicapper golfers.

The PXG Lightning Max-10K+ driver has been designed to be the most forgiving model in the lineup, representing PXG's first venture into the maximum 10K MOI driver market. This club is built specifically to deliver exceptional stability and forgiveness, aiming to capture the market share dominated by models like the Ping G430 Max 10K and TaylorMade Qi10 Max.

Having tested this head extensively during my winter sessions, I wanted to see if PXG could deliver maximum forgiveness without compromising feel.

The PXG Lightning driver family is built around the principle of increasing forgiveness (MOI) and efficiency through its Frequency Tuned Face technology. The idea of this feature is to try and match the face’s natural vibrational frequency with the compression of the ball, producing a more efficient transfer of energy.

The Lightning Max-10K+ specifically serves as the ultra-forgiving model, aimed at players who need maximum stability.

Visually, the Lightning Max-10K+ retains the signature matte black and carbon fiber look of the Black Ops range I enjoyed last year. However, on this brand new model, the head shape is its defining feature: I love the large, rounded profile that clearly differentiates it from the Tour models.

This shape offers bucket loads of confidence at address, looking large and friendly behind the ball, but also sitting extremely squarely and framing the ball well. This aesthetic reflects the technology beneath: a massive 84% larger carbon fiber sole area compared to the Black Ops, which pushes discretionary weight to the extreme perimeter for maximum forgiveness.

However, the subjective experience of impact was a mixed bag. I didn't love the feel, finding it a little too hollow and clicky in the hands. Despite PXG's great work in refining the acoustics with their Frequency Tuned Face, the sound remained sharper than the soft, heavy thud of some major competitors.

However, as I mentioned, feel is a very personal preference, and others may love it.

In terms of performance, the Lightning Max-10K+ performs exactly as it was designed to.

The forgiveness on offer is superb, rivaling the popular Ping G430 Max 10K and TaylorMade Qi10 Max in that regard. The MOI measured at 10,095 g/cm² - an intentional boundary-pushing number - ensuring the head resists twisting under virtually any load.

Along with the impressive dispersion performance, off-center hits, while not feeling as good as other drivers in this category, maintain impressive ball speed retention, minimizing the punishment for a toe or heel strike.

Testing with my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, I found the spin numbers to be on the high side as I expected, but not excessive. PXG’s own testing recorded 2359 RPM at 100 mph swing speed, whereas mine were a little higher (around 2800 rpm on average) based on my 118mph club head speed.

I also didn't notice any discernible flight bias in terms of draw or fade, which is something I enjoyed, as many of this driver type often are armed with a distinct draw bias. This driver is very neutral and designed purely for height and stability.

All of my testing and data gathering were conducted in a fairly neutral weight setup (which I was custom fit for), but for those looking to fine-tune a ball flight preference, there are three movable weights on the sole to allow you to manage CG location to your liking.

The PXG Lightning Max-10K+ is a successful realization of a maximum MOI concept. It’s an incredibly reliable, high-launch, and highly stable driver. While the feel was not my personal preference (finding it too hollow), its performance in dispersion and stability is top-tier. For any golfer battling wide misses and seeking ultimate confidence off the tee, this driver delivers. It would very much be on my test list in the max MOI driver market.

For those wanting a similar level of performance but in a lighter head weight, PXG is also offering a Max-Lite model, which offers all of the performance benefits of the Max 10K+ but in a 189g head as opposed to the standard 203g of the rest of the range.

The Max 10K+ comes in loft options of 9˚, 10.5˚, and 12˚ in both right and left-handed orientations, whereas the Max lite has 10.5˚ or 11.5˚ options, once again, in both left and right hand.

The RRP is $649.00/£569.00.

The whole PXG Lightning driver line is built around increasing forgiveness (MOI) and efficiency through its Frequency Tuned Face technology. This core technology aims to align the face’s natural vibrational frequency with the compression of the ball, producing a more efficient transfer of energy. The Lightning Tour specifically serves as the low-spin profile, aimed at high-speed players who need to manage RPMs.

Visually, the Lightning Tour is largely unchanged from the Black Ops Tour-1, maintaining a familiar shape and footprint. It keeps PXG’s signature premium, high-tech aesthetic, driven by extensive carbon fiber usage.

Overall, the club’s build quality and premium materials are evident, right down to the headcover, which is arguably my favorite among all current drop of drivers.

In the playing position, I really like the very straight top line on the Tour model. Many modern drivers show an awful lot of curvature in that area from the bulge of the face, but I have always liked how PXG presents a very neat, straight top edge, as I feel this helps with my alignment, giving me a clear visual path to the target.

Regarding impact feel, the acoustics are excellent; the sound is solid and refined, which is a continuation of the excellent work PXG did with the Black Ops range. However, for some reason, the feel and sound didn't harmonize perfectly for me. I experienced slightly excessive vibration and feedback through my hands on both centered strikes and mis-hits across this family of drivers.

While the impact stops short of being truly harsh, this firmness prevented the Lightning Tour from ranking among the most refined feels in my winter testing. I would also suggest it lacks a certain ‘zip’ off the face of some of its competition, at least in terms of feel.

I gathered all of my data using my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and the data showed that while it was always an mph or two behind some of its major competition in my testing, it remains a powerful club. Simply put, you aren’t noticing 1 or 2 mph out on the field of play.

The core progress here is in playability. It is slightly less aggressive on spin than last year's Black Ops Tour model, which makes it slightly less volatile in terms of left-to-right dispersion, although it is still very much a low-spinner.

This small concession to playability is crucial. The stability is excellent, benefiting from a 67% larger carbon fiber sole area compared to the Black Ops Tour-1, which dramatically increases forgiveness (MOI-Combined up by 2% to 8,290 g/cm²). This ensures that even when hit slightly off-center, the low-spin nature doesn't result in the ball dropping out of the sky or deviating too far from its launch direction.

The comparative dispersion numbers confirmed this: the Lightning Tour was tighter than the previous Tour-1 model.

I did all my testing and data gathering in a fairly neutral weight setup, but for those looking to fine-tune a ball flight preference, there are three movable weights on the sole to allow you to manage CG location to your liking.

The PXG Lightning Tour is a driver that blends aggression and playability well, and represents progress from the Black Ops Tour-1 in terms of its usability.

It delivers a strong, penetrating ball flight and a low spin profile, exactly as the target player demands. While I am not in love with the feel, and if I were fussy (which I am), I would prefer a tiny bit more speed to match the absolute market leaders, the Lightning Tour enters the market as a formidable, reliable option for high-speed players who need stability and spin control.

The Tour model is available in 8˚, 9˚, and 10.5˚for right right-handed players, and just 9˚ for left-handers. The RRP is $649/£569.

Having tested this head extensively during my winter sessions, I wanted to see if the new iteration truly delivers a measurable step forward from its predecessor, the Black Ops, and if it can challenge some of the best golf drivers in the game.

The PXG Lightning driver line is built around increasing forgiveness (MOI) and efficiency through its Frequency Tuned Face technology. This core technology aims to align the face’s natural vibrational frequency with the compression of the ball, producing a more efficient transfer of energy. The Lightning Tour Mid specifically serves as the versatile model, offering a slightly more compact shape than the Max models while maintaining high stability.

My first impression confirmed that the aesthetic is not a massive change from its predecessor, the Black Ops driver. It retains the brand's signature matte black and carbon fiber look, which I've always liked for its premium, high-tech appearance.

In fact, I have always appreciated the overall branding of PXG and its use of high-end materials, and the headcover might be my favorite of the current crop of drivers, feeling soft, luxurious, robust, and well-designed.

The Tour Mid model offers a classic, slightly rounded profile at address that appeals to my eye, sitting confidently behind the ball. However, the first strikes were a slightly mixed experience.

I really enjoy the sound - it's solid, powerful, and at just the right pitch to me, but strangely, the feel and acoustics don't quite match up. I found I get a bit too much feedback and vibration through my hands with this range as a whole, especially on mis-hits, offering up a slightly hollow sensation, lacking the heaviness of strike that many of my favorites offer.

Sometimes this feedback can be shaft-related, so I switched this about a little during testing, but the feel was much the same. It stops short of being harsh, but it wasn't at the top end of my winter testing for pure soft feel.

In terms of speed, the Tour Mid delivers reasonable numbers without excelling. My data (gathered with my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor) showed that while it was always 1-2 mph behind drivers like the TaylorMade Qi35, Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond, and the Ping G440 LST, it is far from slow. At my typical speed, a loss of 1-2 mph is often negligible on the course, but it’s worth noting for those seeking to wring out every last drop of speed.

Where the Lightning Tour Mid excels is in stability and control. The consistency of data was very impressive, which is a testament to the build quality. The new design uses more carbon fiber in the sole compared to the Black Ops (74% larger carbon fiber sole area in the Tour Mid), allowing discretionary weight to be pushed to the perimeter for higher MOI (Moment of Inertia). This translated directly into tighter dispersion for me, which is always a welcome addition to my arsenal.

When shots were hit away from the center, the club resisted twisting exceptionally well, keeping the ball closer to the centerline than many other drivers.

The Tour Mid profile would provide excellent launch conditions for a wide range of golfers, avoiding the ultra-low flight of the pure Tour model or the highest launch of the Max. It successfully marries forgiveness and speed, and does so without a heavy directional bias.

I carried out all of my testing and data gathering in a fairly neutral weight setup, but for those looking for that aforementioned directional bias, there are three movable weights on the sole to allow you to manage CG location to your individual preference.

The PXG Lightning Tour Mid is a highly dependable driver that offered me consistency and forgiveness over and above peak speed. I don't feel it is a massive step forward in overall performance from the Black Ops driver, and from a feel point of view, it didn't hit the right notes, but it was a very consistent performer. It’s a beautifully built, highly adjustable, and reliable driver that will undoubtedly help golfers find more fairways and maintain confidence off the tee.

The Tour Mid is available in 8˚, 9˚, and 10.5˚for right right-handed players, and 9˚ and 10.5˚ for left-handers with an RRP of $649/£569.

All of those aforementioned features are neatly contained within the compact SkyCaddie Pro 4X GPS unit. I must confess I’ve always been a GPS watch or laser rangefinder guy, but when I received the Pro 4X in the post it did excite me. It's more streamlined than the impressive but sizeable Pro 5X GPS and even sleeker and slimmer than the SX400.

Arriving fully charged and with one year’s free subscription, the device was ready to use immediately, so I got it straight out on the course to see what it could do.

First impressions are important, and thanks to the very neat size of this device I was immediately impressed. This was a tool I ideally wanted to keep on me at all times, so having the ability to slide it in and out of my back pocket with ease, and not notice it during my swing, was an immediate plus.

Despite being small, the bright 4" LCD touchscreen is very easy to use, and thanks to the vivid colours on display it also works perfectly in all light conditions. As soon as I got to the course, it took the Pro 4X mere moments to find the course I was on and I was ready to go. Before I played the round, though, it’s worth mentioning that I inputted my carry distances with each club, and this additional feature became very handy, which I will get into later.

So standing on the first tee, I was met with a variety of options, the most useful of which being the HoleVue, which allows you to pinpoint parts of the hole, giving you a target yardage and how long your second shot will be into the green. Using the touchscreen you can move your target around and you’re also treated to arcs per
club, which will tell you which hazards and parts of the hole are in range.

I mentioned before that I entered my club distances, and it’s this exact scenario where that came in handy, when you are presented with the arcs on the hole at your target distance, you are given a variety of options so you can see which club will hopefully end up where.

The HoleVue feature is superb, and makes plotting your way around the course so easy. Pick a target, select your club and fingers crossed, with a good strike, you should avoid the trouble. Another great feature included in this view is that hazards are marked with constantly adjusting yardages as you navigate allowing you to see what you need to do in order to cover those pesky bunkers. These same yardages can also be displayed in a list format. For fans of a more simplistic interface you can also switch over to a basic front/middle/back view with extra large numbers.

Moving on to approach shots, the Pro X4 allows you to utilize IntelliGreen Pro and the PinPoint features. The PinPoint is very easy to use, it allows you to move the Pin to where you think it is on the green, with the aim of really dialling in your yardages, however I would say that if you are far away, or your view is obstructed there is a certain degree of guessing involved without an accurate pin sheet.

Once your pin is in place, however, you can then use IntelliGreen Pro which is a superb feature that gives you an incredibly detailed map of the green, which includes contours, false fronts and yardages to the front/pin/back and sides. This extra level of detail once again allows you to make much more educated decisions, which in turn should result in better scoring.

All of the features mentioned above are as close as you can come to having a caddy in your pocket, and I have definitely seen improvements to my game as a result. I’m making better decisions off the tee, and doing a far better job of avoiding the danger on my approach shots. Most importantly, I'm trusting the accuracy, knowing that SkyCaddie map all the courses on foot.

The device also allows you to keep score and if you are big into your data, you can also track your shots for review after the round by simply inputting which clubs you used for each shot, whether you hit the fairway, missed it left or right, and how many putts you made. It's also compatible with the new GameTrax 360, which I'm excited to try out.

All in all the Sky Caddie Pro 4X is a fantastic GPS device. The level of detail is incredibly useful, the features are intuitive and comprehensive, and both the size of the device and the quality of the screen make it incredibly user friendly.

I wanted to put the full range to the test to see if they deserve their spot in the best driver shafts conversation, and which one or ones might suit your game…

How We Test Shafts

All of our shaft testing is conducted using the same TaylorMade Qi35 core driver head set to a precise 9 degrees (measured), with each shaft cut to an exact length of 45.5 inches, fitted with a Golf Pride Tour Velvet 60R grip. Furthermore, all testing shots are struck from a white castle tee to ensure consistent tee height during testing.

The data is collected and recorded using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and the same TaylorMade TP5x golf balls.

Controlling these potential variables allows me to draw accurate and direct comparisons and form a clear picture of each shaft's performance and feel characteristics.

Mitsubishi Tensei Shafts: Technology

The key technology of the Tensei 1K Pro and 1K lines in held in their recipe of materials:

1K Carbon Fiber: Used in the handle section of the Pro models, this super-premium material reduces ovalization under load for increased stability and consistent center-face contact.

Xlink Tech Resin System: This proprietary system dramatically increases the carbon fiber volume in the shaft, resulting in a smoother, more responsive feel while simultaneously increasing strength and durability.

Color-Coded Performance: Mitsubishi uses a consistent color system to define the launch characteristics across its entire range, making it easier for fitters and players to select their optimal flight profile.

Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Pro Orange

The Orange profile is unique because it is counterbalanced (more weight at the grip end than normal), achieved by placing tungsten powder in the handle section. It is designed for low launch and low spin, promoting increased clubhead speed.

My testing noted real stability in the handle, feeling solid both at the waggle stage and through the transition. Its counterbalanced nature made the head feel a bit lighter (it actually measured around 2 swing weights lighter than the white profile, interestingly), encouraging me to swing harder and faster without the fear of the head getting left behind.

Players who like a heavy total weight in their clubs may find success here. Because, as I mentioned, the swing weight gets lighter due to the counterbalance, this allows some additional headweight to be added back in and still have the club play at its previous swing weight/balance while adding up to a heavier overall weight.

Players who create a lot of leverage or lag in their golf swing often find success with these counterbalance style shafts, because by moving the balance point further up the shaft, it just becomes a little easier to unload that lag. Players like Sergio Garcia and Matt Fitzpatrick are classic examples of this, with the latter still using the shaft to this day.

Choose this shaft if:
You create a lot of lag in your golf swing, and/or you like a heavy total weight without compromising swing weight

Avoid this shaft if:
You struggle with an early release or ‘casting’ from the top

Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Pro White

The 1K Pro White is specifically built for the player seeking maximum stability and a piercing, low-spin flight.

Make no mistake about it, this shaft is stout, utilizing MR70 and high-modulus 46-ton material to fortify the tip; there aren’t many firmer tip sections out there.

My experience echoed its reputation: this shaft felt like just about every robust adjective I can think of! Hefty, firm, rigid, strong, and stable are just some of them. If you are looking for a nice, gentle, smooth ride with a shaft, then look elsewhere; this shaft needs full effort to reap the benefits.

More me, it generated a low, controlled ball flight that cut through the wind exceptionally well with spin rates barely exceeding 2000 rpm with much regularity. If you are a high-speed, high-spin player who battles ballooning shots, the 1K Pro White delivers the stiffness and controlled tip section you may have been craving.

I don’t see this shaft as a great fairway wood option for many players, in truth. For most, the lack of assistance with dynamic loft may be a bit of a struggle, but for those who like to cut loose with the driver, they don’t come much more stable than this.

Choose this shaft if:
You have a snappy, aggressive transition and tend to release the club more with your hands than your body.

Avoid this shaft if:
You have a smooth tempo and transition and are looking for a shaft that is easy to load.

Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Pro Blue

The 1K Pro Blue is the versatile, all-around performer of the Pro range, using an enhanced stiffness profile to control the shaft's curvature during the swing. Its profile fits very much in the mid launch and spin profiles that manufacturers often like to categorize their products with.

In my testing, this shaft felt extremely smooth - a hallmark of the Blue profile over the years. I didn’t feel like I needed to work it particularly aggressively from the top to get a response, but equally, it provided ample stability down by the ball, which was very reassuring when I wanted to dial up the speed a little.

It provided excellent energy transfer and stability, feeling powerful without being overly demanding, and the feedback through the hands was apparent without being too much. At the waggle stage, the Tensei 1K Pro Blue actually felt like it might be harder work than it was due to its relatively firm handle section, but as the momentum of the swing kicked in, the softer corresponding mid and tip sections offered a beautiful balance in feel.

The resulting ball flight was a true mid-launch and mid-spin, making it the ideal "do-anything" shaft that will fit the widest range of golfers looking for consistency. Along with the red profile (below), I think this would also be a potentially excellent choice for many players in a fairway wood, as well as the driver.

Choose this shaft if:
Balance in feel and stability is a priority.

Avoid this shaft if:
You like a soft, responsive feel while waggling pre-shot.

Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Pro Red

The 1K Pro Red is touted as the highest-launching profile in the Pro series, engineered to provide easy height without sacrificing stability.

In truth, to me, this shaft felt almost undiscernible from the blue profile, with the only tangible difference being a fractionally softer mid-section, and it delivered predictably similar launch monitor data overall.

The slightly more noticeable "action" in the mid-section certainly promoted high levels of feel and feedback, along with a very comfortable launch. If you are a player who struggles to get the ball up in the air or needs more carry distance, the 1K Pro Red definitely offers the active profile needed to increase launch angle and optimize carry distance.

Interestingly, the torque profile measures pretty much the same throughout the Tensei range in this TX - around the 3.8 mark, but for some reason, the red profile felt just a touch easier to square up at impact than the white, for example, which promoted a little more of a draw-bias ball flight for me.

Choose this shaft if:
You are looking for the biggest advantage in launch in the Tensei Pro 1K range.

Avoid this shaft if:
You are looking for ultimate stability throughout the swing and impact.

Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Black

The 1K Black is the “non-Pro” version's low-launch model, built specifically for very powerful, brisk swings. It utilizes a focused application of 1K carbon fiber to increase handle strength and drive down torque. If we compare it to the 1K Pro White, the actual raw data produced for me was basically identical, but it achieved this with very different feels. While I stated that the White was as robust and stable as it comes, there is an argument I would listen to, to suggest that the 1K black has a slightly stiffer overall profile, with the White just giving a hint more feedback in the handle section.

This profile felt predictably stout and controlled. It’s built for players who don't want any unwanted movement in the shaft, providing a low-spin, penetrating trajectory.

There are no frills with this shaft; it's just an excellent, stable performer, ideal for aggressive swings that need a strong, no-nonsense shaft.

Choose this shaft if:
You are looking for a poker stiff feel at a slightly cheaper price than the Pro range.

Avoid this shaft if:
You prioritise feel and feedback. This gives you very little of either; it’s just a pure stability machine.

Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Blue

The 1K Blue (non-Pro) is the slightly more affordable mid-launch, mid-spin option that sits in the standard 1K line. It provides a noticeably smoother feel than the Black and is designed to suit the broadest spectrum of golfers.

At the waggle stage pre-shot, I have to say the 1K Blue feels very digestible. Absolutely no sense of harshness, but coupled with a pleasingly stable mid to tip section. In the swing, it offered excellent energy return - actually producing my highest ball speeds of the entire 1K and 1K Pro ranges - and a stable, consistent ball flight.

This shaft is arguably the best fit for most club golfers, providing the ideal blend of distance, forgiveness, and smooth feel necessary for consistent results across 18 holes.

Choose this shaft if:
Your budget doesn’t permit you to head into the 1K Pro Blue.

Avoid this shaft if:
You are particularly jerky or snatchy in transition from backswing to downswing.

Verdict

As you can see from the data, there was actually very little to pick from between the shafts in terms of launch, with only a degree between the six shafts that I tested. Furthermore, in my testing there was only a 300rpm spread of spin between every shaft for me, which is a little tighter than some of the other major shaft manufacturers.

The overriding takeaway for me from my testing, however, was the incredibly stable feel of the whole range. Even in the supposed higher launch profiles that can sometimes feel a little flimsy, the Tensei Red and Blue profiles still offered a fairly hefty feel which many players will enjoy.

If you are a player with a lot of lag in your swing, you for certain should test out the Tensei 1K Pro Orange, as one of the few truly counterbalanced offerings in the premium market currently.

Another point I enjoyed with the Tensei range is the two price point offerings within the family, making still premium shafts a little more accessible.

These shoes draw direct inspiration from one of New Balance's best sellers, the classic 574, which has been a mainstay on pavements and high streets for as long as I can remember. The crossover makes complete sense. Take a shoe renowned for comfort and style, and tailor it for the golf course. A winning formula that has been adopted by numerous athletic brands, including Nike and adidas, which have quickly created some of the best golf shoes from classic designs.

First impressions are key when testing a new pair of golf shoes, and both from a visual perspective and a comfort one, I was very impressed. The silhouette is one I’m familiar with, but it’s as solid as ever. While the 574 is a hugely popular shape, I have to say I’ve always taken a slight issue with the boxy nature of the toe. That aside, however, the visuals are great, the bright white body is complemented nicely by blue and red accents near the heel.

Slipping the shoes on for the first time, they also offer that trainer-like comfort that is hard to argue with. With plenty of width, a lovely level of cushioning and solid support, these shoes certainly deliver when it comes to comfort.

Out on the course, these shoes performed admirably considering the wet weather we’ve had here in the UK recently. Despite being a spikeless golf shoe, the variety of traction elements on the outsole did a good job of remaining stable on the wet grass, and even under the stress of a driver swing, I didn’t at any point lose my footing.

The waterproof microfibre leather upper also did a fantastic job of keeping my feet warm and dry even when walking through long rough. The predominantly white upper was also very easy to wipe clean, which is ideal for when the ground gets muddier during winter rounds.

On foot, the 574s strike the ideal balance of lightweight comfort with enough weight to feel secure, and the relatively wide footprint only adds to the level of stability on offer. The CUSH+ insole also delivers a comfortable ride that stood up to 18 holes with ease, and I noticed no level of foot fatigue or discomfort at any point during my round.

All in all, the 574s are a really solid offering from New Balance that I think will really strike a chord with the fashion-conscious golfer due not only to their design but also the versatility they offer for on and off-course wear.

Protoconcept is a brand known for its commitment to high-end, forged precision, has released a wedge that doesn’t just aim to compete with the major players in the market but looks to surpass them in feel and finish. I put the RR Forged wedge ($309/£241) through its paces on the golf course and indoors on a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor to see if this is a wedge you should consider.

The aesthetics of the RR Forged wedge are what I believe truly distinguish it from a lot of the best wedges on the market. From the moment you take these wedges out of the wrapper, they just have a premium aura about them, thanks to the deep satin finish and precise shaping that look incredibly premium both in hand and in the bag.

Behind the ball, the aesthetic is clean, timeless, and perfectly balanced. The head features a beautifully classic, rounded profile with a clean leading edge that sits really nicely when the blade is both square and open behind the ball. The smooth curves and compact shape are exactly what a better player wants to see, and they really gave me the confidence to be creative around the greens when using this wedge.

When clipping away chips and pitch shots, I instantly noticed how soft and responsive the RR forged wedge is. It’s probably the softest feeling wedge I have tested over the past year, even more so than the forged TaylorMade MG5 and Fourteen FRZ - another wedge I love.

The RR wedges are forged from S25C soft carbon steel, a material often favoured in high-end Japanese golf clubs for its legendary soft feel and responsiveness, probably why I love the feel through impact with these clubs.

The face boasts a precision CNC-milled surface. This milling process ensures every single groove is cut to the tightest possible tolerance, maximising friction and, critically, spin, even out of the rough or when dealing with surface moisture.

Protoconcept has opted for a subtle yet effective sole design, featuring a classic rounded leading edge with slight heel and toe relief, although this differs slightly depending on which grind you choose. The NT grind (neutral) was what I chose on my 50°, and then I went for the more aggressive grind (AG) on my sand and lob wedge.

There is also a SP (Sweeper) grind for those more shallow into the ball. The loft options on these wedges range between 46°- 60°, meaning there is a RR wedge out there for everyone. Through the use of 3D CAD technology, every loft is individually tailored to ensure optimal centre of gravity placement and sole functionality for each wedge.

Around the green, the sole geometry offered excellent versatility. It didn't dig excessively on delicate chips, and the slight relief in the heel allowed for an open face on bunker shots and flop shots without digging and getting stuck through impact. If you tend to be inconsistent with your strike or do want a little assistance around the greens, I would point you in the direction of one of the most forgiving wedges instead.

I did test the Protoconcept RR Forged wedges across a range of conditions, from full swings out of the fairway to delicate chips around the green. The full-swing ball trajectory was consistent and penetrating, which was something I was glad to see. Where the RR Forged really shone was in scoring shots. The consistent groove performance delivered excellent spin retention even from the light rough, allowing me to attack pins with confidence.

However, the standout moment came during my 50-yard pitch shot testing. This distance is the ultimate indicator of groove bite, and the RR wedge was exceptional, where my launch monitor registered a phenomenal 7658 RPM of spin. For context, this was the second-largest amount of spin generated from any wedge I have tested over the last year.

Overall, the quality of these wedges is superb, and they offer extreme levels of spin and feel, as well as looking exceptional behind the ball and in the bag. The elephant in the room is the extremely punchy price tag of £309/£241. If you're in the market for a fresh set and money is no issue, these would be right up there at the top of the list, however, some of the best wedges on the market are available for nearly half of the price.

Toulon’s answer to this trend is the Formula Series ($865/£649), and with three models in the lineup, the brand has finally delivered a high-MOI, toe-up design that maintains the superb feel we’ve come to expect. I took the Toulon Formula 90 onto the golf course to see what performance can be expected on the greens.

The Formula Series is built around the concept of matching torque profiles to a golfer’s stroke, offering three distinct options rather than forcing every player into one mould - something I love and I think other manufacturers should be taking notice of.

While the Formula (low-torque, face-balanced) and the Formula (super-low torque, 45° of toe hang) cater to those with a slight arc, the Formula 90 is the true zero-torque putter, designed with 90° of toe hang. This club is engineered to keep the face square to the path of the stroke, attempting to return the face at impact back to where it started at address.

The head is a shape that really suits my eye, and I think aesthetically it is right up there with some of the best putters on the market. It’s a fairly compact, wide-bodied mallet that sits beautifully behind the ball at address.

For me, one of the biggest wins is the aesthetic nature of the crown. I absolutely loved the alignment cues on top of the Formula 90. The combination of the deep black finish and the three crisp white sight lines provided an immediate visual confirmation that you are perfectly aimed and really helped my putting from short range. It removes any doubt and allowed me to focus purely on pace, which is exactly what a great mallet putter should do.

Despite the larger footprint, it avoids the oversized look that can deter some golfers, instead using its footprint to deliver serious stability, boasting an MOI of over 6,000 - a number that rivals the most forgiving putters on the market.

Where many high-MOI, zero-torque putters sacrifice feel through the hands and audibly, I found the Formula 90 excels. It’s here that Toulon’s pedigree shines through, and this putter provides a soft, yet responsive feel from the face.

The brand’s classic deep milling technology delivers a pleasant feel through impact, providing that satisfying, muted click that translates perfectly to pace control. There were very few vibrations through the head and shaft, yet it delivered enough feedback that control distance with longer putts was not affected.

On the greens, the zero-torque design is immediately noticeable from inside the 15ft mark. For a player who prefers a minimal arc, the Formula 90 is a revelation; the head resists twisting really well, resulting in putts that hug the intended line.

As someone who typically plays a blade putter with substantially more toe-hang, it took a little getting used to, but once I got the hang of things, I felt as though I couldn’t miss on shorter putts. The stability of off-centre hits is also better than expected, given that the majority of the weight and CG is shifted forward in the head.

Crucially, Toulon offers this incredible technology without completely dictating your setup. Compared to the forward-press grips found on other zero-torque putters, such as some L.A.B. Golf putters and the PXG Allan putter, I love the standard pistol-style grip that comes stock on the Formula 90. It allowed me to adopt my natural, comfortable putting grip without feeling forced into an unnatural shaft lean or hand position.

This blend of cutting-edge stability and traditional milling on the face makes the Formula 90 instantly playable for anyone looking to switch into the zero-torque putter space. The premium price point will have golfers questioning whether to pull the trigger, but if you are serious about purchasing a zero-torque putter that offers arguably the best aesthetics and feel on the market, then the Toulon Formula 90 is worth taking the plunge.

On paper, the Vice Pro is built for balanced performance, designed for golfers who prioritise a mixture of distance and short game control. It’s made from a 3-piece construction with a cast urethane cover, similar to that of a TaylorMade Tour Response, and some of the best golf balls on the market.

It boasts a 90-compression High Energy Speed Core designed to maximise ball speed for those with medium swing speeds. While this swing speed isn’t specified, I would assume it’s for golfers who swing a driver anywhere between 90mph and 105mph.

I was testing the Pro Tracer model, which features a thick, dual-colour alignment line. Off the tee, I could see how this visual aid was genuinely useful for helping with setup and visualising your start line, as well as, of course, when lining up putts.

I typically putt with a single line on the ball, and so at first I did actually find the larger graphics a little off-putting. However, once I understood that inside 10ft, these alignment cues saw my ball rolling at the hole more consistently, I gained confidence and subsequently started holing a considerable amount of putts from that range. It really started to feel like a cheat code, particularly on those nervy 3-footers.

The ball felt solid and fast off the face, and the 318-dimple pattern produced a fairly high, towering ball flight when the weather was calm. However, due to the fact that I swing my driver at around 117mph, I did find it spun up a little more with both the driver and my irons than I would typically like to see when measuring data using my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor.

With my usual driver and Titliest Pro V1x combination, I would expect to see around 2200 rpm of spin. However, with the Vice Pro Tracer ball, I was seeing around 400 rpm more than this, as you can see in the graphic below. This then also resulted in a shorter carry distance than I would like to see.

This was also to my detriment when playing into a wind or crosswind, I found the ball quickly lost its speed, and I saw the ball stall quite a lot and get moved by the wind. On slight mis-hits, particularly those struck towards the heel, the ball seemed to rise more than I'm used to, causing the ball to fall short of my target.

Where the Vice Pro truly excelled for me was from 100 yards and in. The thin cast urethane cover helped provide plenty of short game spin and control, and considering how soft the ball feels off the face, the cover actually held up pretty well. I put the ball through its paces in the bunker, and it delivered solid amounts of spin on well-struck chips and pitches, giving me the confidence to attack pins.

Overall, I think the Vice Pro Tracer ball is a superb option for golfers seeking fairly solid performance at the reasonable price of just under £28 per dozen, making it one of the best value golf balls on the market. It’s not the strongest performer in the wind, or if you have a faster clubhead speed, but the strong performance from 100 yards and in makes up for what it lacks in distance.

While I haven't tested the regular Cobra DS-ADAPT model, so I can't give you a direct comparison, I can tell you exactly how this enhanced model has been tailored to give female golfers added benefits and if I was impressed with the results.

The DS-ADAPT MAX has a slightly larger profile with a thicker topline, wider sole and added offset, which combine to provide maximum forgiveness. Unlike some irons that look intimidating when you address the ball, I found these ‘oversized’ aspects confidence-inspiring, making even the worst lies seem manageable.

In my opinion, there is nothing to dislike about the aesthetic of this iron. Cobra describes the finish as champagne, which is understated but pretty classy and it's fitted with a KBS light graphite shaft that’s mostly black.

When I first picked up this iron, I did find it heavy compared with others on the market, such as the Ping’s G Le3, XXIO 13, or TaylorMade's Kalea Gold. But as we're all different, and what feels heavy to me might feel light to someone else.

During testing, I was conscious of the weight of the club on my takeaway into my backswing, but I have to say, while no noticeable distance gains, I did manage to get the club back to the ball and consistently launch it fairly high so I was impressed with the results.

This might well have been due to the 2-degree weaker lofts in this model, which aim to help the ball get up and travel high without sacrificing speed. I also think the extra weight didn’t do me any harm, it helped me to give my shots extra oomph!

What I really appreciated, however, was the sound and feel at impact. Thanks to the hollow cavity that is filled with a soft foam, whatever the outcome, my shots felt robust and powerful without any harsh vibrations. Even on off-centre strikes, the sound was consistent and pleasing.

Overall, the DS-ADAPT MAX women's iron is a great offering if you’re looking for maximum forgiveness and height, which is wrapped up in a sleek package that inspires confidence at address.

How We Test Shafts

All of our shaft testing is conducted using the same TaylorMade Qi35 core head set to a precise 9 degrees (measured), with each shaft cut to an exact length of 45.5 inches, fitted with a Golf Pride Tour Velvet 60R grip. Furthermore, all testing shots are struck from a white castle tee to ensure consistent tee height during testing.

The data is collected and recorded using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and TaylorMade TP5x golf balls .

Controlling these potential variables allows me to draw accurate and direct comparisons and form a clear picture of each shaft's performance and feel characteristics.

BGT Brava Tour Shaft: Technology

The Brava Tour shaft is an evolution of BGT’s original Brava, shifting the focus firmly toward stability to handle more powerful golf swings. BGT states that the added weight and enhanced stiffness are engineered to stabilize the clubhead, allowing for more consistent and controlled swing outcomes.

BGT claims this stability helps to generate more momentum, leading to increased ball speed and distance. The shaft's design philosophy is clear: provide a stable foundation through impact to tighten dispersion, a principle BGT champions across all its product lines.

BGT Brava Tour Shaft: Performance

My testing immediately confirmed the shaft's intention: it is very much a tip-stiff product, likely to be more effective for higher tempo players who need resistance against excessive shaft droop or deflection.

The overall feel was firm and solid through impact, and to me, it felt very similar to the Mitsubishi Diamana WB in the swing, sharing that powerful, low-torque stability that appeals to high-speed golfers.

Crucially, this shaft certainly doesn't feel as lively as its predecessor, the standard Brava. Where the original had a more active, responsive feel, the Brava Tour leans into control. However, the added feeling of stability will appeal to the stronger player for sure, offering a sense of command over the clubhead that minimizes the feeling of "whip" through the transition.

I found the launch window a little lower than I expected, particularly when compared to my ‘gamer’ Fujikura Ventus Velocore+ Black shaft, but this was a welcome sight to me as I am always looking for ways to bring my ball flight down. This was accompanied by some fairly low spin numbers, which cemented the Brava Tour in the 'low-spin bomber' category.

Maybe I care too much about aesthetics, but the look of the shaft is superb - the black and copper colorway looks really cool and modern. I am even very tempted to pair it up with my TaylorMade Burner Copper Mini Driver for the ultimate coordinated look!

For the player seeking maximum rigidity, the Brava Tour is definitely worth adding to the test list.

The W2 wedges are its latest offering, designed to maximize forgiveness and consistency around the greens. I put the W2 through its paces to see if Avoda’s unconventional design truly delivers a more consistent result.

In terms of the aesthetics, Avoda has absolutely nailed it here for me. Anyone who listens to the Kick Point Golf Gear Show podcast will know how much I love minimalistic design language on a golf club (particularly a wedge), and that is exactly what we have with the W2. Just the Avoda logo - which I think is a work of art in itself - and a simple G, S, or L denoting Gap, Sand, or Lob wedge adorn this beautiful head, and I love it.

Too many modern wedges for me offer too much reading and information, along with heavy branding, so the G, S, and L move (as opposed to writing exact loft) is a very welcome one to me at least. For the record, the gap wedge standard loft is 50˚, while the sand and lob wedges come in at 55˚ and 60˚, respectively.

The utility wedge market has seen a surge in specialized designs, but few have committed to blending forgiveness and aesthetics quite like Avoda. The W2 Wedges promise maximum help, and the main story of this wedge for me is the incredible, high-bounce sole grind.

This high bounce makes it exceptionally forgiving through the turf, while the severely bevelled leading and trailing edges work together to provide versatility in a multitude of ground conditions.

The secret sauce of the W2 lies entirely in its ability to resist digging. This wedge is basically 'un-duffable' because there is so much bounce to help you out with any slightly heavy strike. But, while the deep bounce prevents the club from digging into soft ground or sand, the clever beveling on both edges of the sole helps to prevent the clubhead from deflecting too sharply off the turf - the classic drop-kick style of miss that is usually associated with super high bounce wedges.

Furthermore, I found the W2 to be an absolute revelation in the sand. I don’t think I have found a better bunker club since the iconic Ping Eye 2 wedge - it just glides through the sand with minimal effort, providing predictable contact and distance. This forgiveness is crucial, turning potential disasters into simple up-and-downs.

In terms of flight, the W2 produced consistent, reliable spin, though it fell just short of the extreme stopping power offered by a couple of other premium wedges, the Callaway Opus SP, and the Vokey SM10. However, when I say just short, I mean just short.

Over all shots from various ranges, I found it to be only around 100 rpm short of the other two averages, which is a negligible difference that I wouldn’t have noticed at all without the benefit of my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor.

Avoda offers golfers several customization options, staying true to their unique approach to club requirements. You can get this wedge built in a single length configuration (where all your irons are the same length), a 'combo' length (where all of your scoring clubs from LW through to 8-iron are built to the same length), or in a more conventional variable length setup. This is a massive plus for golfers who have opted into a non-traditional set make-up.

The £172 / $192 price tag is very competitive with other premium wedges, making the W2 a good value proposition for the technology on offer. For a specialized tool that delivers this level of performance and error correction, the investment is easily justified. The Avoda W2 is an exceptional option for those seeking confidence and consistency around the green.

Capable of being used in either a golf cart or on your shoulders, the Tourney bag is packed full of helpful features which make your life out on the course as easy as possible, and make it one of the best stand bags we've recently tested. From the 14-way divider to the special cooler pouch and the Velcro golf-glove patch, I was thoroughly impressed with so much during multiple trips out.

Firstly, I know 14-way club dividers can split opinion across the golfing sphere, but I enjoyed my maiden experience of a bag with this option.

The club divider in the MacGregor Tourney is spread out across 10 inches and gives my clubs more than enough room to be placed in neatly or taken out without crashing into the others. And, as someone who loves their golf equipment and apparel to be as organized as possible, this earned a huge tick from me.

Moving on to another vital aspect of a good golf bag, the level of efficient storage in the MacGregor Tourney was great to see. The full-length apparel pocket down the side was capable of hiding a full change of outfit as well as a couple of snacks, and the depth of the golf ball pouch in particular was incredibly deep (which is ideal for someone like me).

Additionally, the cooler pocket was a fantastic feature which ensured my liquid refreshments stayed at the appropriate temperature for as long as I needed, and the range-finder pocket could safely store several DMDs if necessary.

Occasionally, with other bags, such an impressive rate of storage can lead to a more fragile skeleton overall, but I certainly did not find this to be the case with the MacGregor Tourney with an incredibly stable body overall.

If there were a small handful of drawbacks with the bag, it would be that certain materials don't feel that premium and others aren't as efficient in wet weather as you might hope.

The rain hood, in particular, is quite flimsy, and the valuables pocket could potentially be slightly larger. Plus, the bag was a little more difficult to slot into a golf trolley than other models I've tested, although it fitted into a golf cart with no issues whatsoever.

I would also argue that the overall aesthetic of the MacGregor Tourney struggles to compete with the upper echelons of its competition. But, then again, the subject of looks is always so subjective and - given there are five different colorways available - you are likely to find one that suitably impresses.

Returning to the amazing levels of practicality, though, the MacGregor Tourney was perfectly comfortable to carry for a full round thanks to the padded shoulder straps and hip area combined with the ergonomic shape of the main body.

It's light, too, weighing just 2kg/4.65lbs. That's really helpful if you're likely to load dozens of golf balls into that ultra-deep pocket I mentioned earlier.

Its zips were really easy to use thanks to the keyring-shaped pulleys, which made opening and closing pockets on colder days that little but easier - and that's always appreciated.

Overall, I feel like the MccGregor Tourney Hybrid is probably appropriate for someone who might not play golf all that regularly and who doesn't need all of the fancy add-ons a seasoned player would benefit from.

It's incredibly practical and ticks so many boxes that I think you could easily forgive it for leaving something to be desired in terms of aesthetics. Either way, at such a modest price point, the downsides are barely worth considering, and the MacGregor Tourney would be well worth the purchase.

This model replaces the well-regarded E725 driver, promising enhanced stability and a powerful corrective bias.

I put the Exotics Max through rigorous testing to see if Tour Edge continues to offer the comprehensive, high-value package we've come to expect.

In terms of looks, I have to say the aesthetics are somewhat of a disappointment compared to last year's equivalent in the E725. In truth, I thought the previous model was a lot sleeker and more sophisticated.

On E725, I preferred how the 'alignment logo' on the top of the crown was both slightly longer and positioned a little further back on the head; whereas it now sits on a top edge banner strip, which just doesn't suit my eye as well as it did.

I’m also not particularly keen on the new logo - it lacks the subtlety and sophistication of the previous branding to my eye. But this is, of course, completely subjective - if you like it, let me know in the comments!

The sound at impact is a definite improvement from the E725, which was always a little hollow and high-pitched, whereas the Exotics Max delivers a more solid thud at strike, which is much closer to the heavy sound I look for in a driver.

The feel at impact is very stable, giving you immediate feedback wherever you have struck the ball without being overly punishing to the hands on those off-center strikes, comfortably placing it amongst the most forgiving drivers on the market.

Despite my thoughts on the looks, the driver performed pretty much as reliably as the E725 model, which I was a big fan of. This model is engineered to be extremely forgiving, and it fulfils that brief.

The large profile and deep Center of Gravity (CG) create a high MOI, meaning the driver is exceptionally stable through impact.

The standout performance feature is the 18g sliding weight positioned at the rear of the sole. This is a nice addition, allowing players to dial in their shot shape bias as desired.

I tested the Max model on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and it delivered me a decent, albeit quite spinny, ball flight that had no trouble consistently finding fairways, although for me personally I would worry about my distance loss when hitting into any sort of headwind. However, I am at the higher end of the swing speed spectrum and those players shopping in this market may well welcome this additional spin.

The Tour Edge Exotics Max is priced at $499.99/£379, and the brand offers a wide selection of custom shaft options at zero upcharge, allowing golfers to dial in a premium shaft - a feature many major OEMs still charge extra for. Furthermore, Tour Edge even offers a trade-in program, which is a nice touch.

The Exotics Max is a solid, forgiveness-focused driver. While I may not prefer the new aesthetic, its performance, sound, and high-value proposition make it a viable choice for the high-to-mid handicap player who needs more help finding the fairway.

Sitting above the mid-priced Pro and the softer Tour ball, I got my hands on the visually-striking Tracer model to see if its performance matched the bold looks.

The Tracer pattern is hard to ignore when taking these balls out of the packet for the first time. The multi-line design is similar to that of the TaylorMade TP5 Stripe ball, which has become very popular among amateur golfers. While I typically don’t like seeing a lot of graphics on my golf ball, I can see how this ball would help people who struggle with alignment from the tee and hitting their start lines when putting.

From the first tee shot, it was clear this ball is designed for those who naturally produce a decent amount of speed. I swing a driver at around the 117mph mark, and so I found the four-piece construction, combined with its high compression, translated into a powerful and penetrating flight with the driver.

I would say the Vice Pro Plus is aimed at those swinging in excess of 110mph to reap the rewards of the ball's characteristics or for those who just want a firmer feel around the greens. I was particularly impressed with the spin numbers this ball produced. My driver spin was in a good place, hovering right around the 2300rpm mark, which produced a strong flight that held its line well, even when I was into the breeze.

Interestingly Vice suggests you could rotate the Tracer graphic 90° when using it off the tee to assist with aim more effectively thanks to the combination of the three vertical and three horizontal guides, although what looks better to your eyes might differ to mine.

Through the bag, the Pro Plus offered a stable and mostly predictable flight with the irons, although I did see a few shots that came out with very little spin, causing the ball to fly a long way, almost as if I’d caught a little ‘jumper’ from the fairway, but for the most part, I was seeing the ball travel the same distance and at the same trajectory that I'm used to seeing.

However, this ball's true character shone through in the short game. The feel is noticeably firmer than its three-piece Pro sibling, which was something I particularly liked and used to with my ‘gamer’ ball.

When chipping and pitching, this firmness provided a lovely, crisp "click" at impact and gave me a real sense of control and feedback, allowing me to be more aggressive with my landing spots. It was a very familiar and confidence-inspiring sensation, reminding me of the Titleist Pro V1x - one of the best golf balls on the market.

On the greens, the Tracer's alignment benefits are obvious. It frames the ball perfectly, making it incredibly easy to see your start line and get immediate feedback on the quality of your stroke. However, if you’re not a fan of the tracer design, you can purchase these balls in multiple different color options - something Vice is well known for.

Overall, I do think this is a reliable option for those with fast swing speeds seeking low spin and a firm feel at a very affordable price point. To the point that I would class them amongst the best value golf balls given the £27 per dozen price point.

Given the visual assistance and the impressive performance through the bag, there's a strong case for this being the best ball Vice has ever made (let me know in the comments what Vice ball you like to play with). It's not for everyone, but for those seeking a tour-calibre ball without the premium prices, it's well worth a try.

This driver is engineered for low spin and high stability, the two attributes demanded by faster-swinging golfers. I put the Exotics LS through its paces to see if Tour Edge continues to offer what I've now come to expect, even with a refreshed aesthetic.

In terms of looks, I have to say the looks are somewhat of a disappointment to me compared to last year's equivalent, the C725. I personally preferred the slightly rounder head shape of the previous model; this version is a touch angular for my taste, although many will feel the exact opposite (let me know in the comments).

If you were a fan of the Cobra DS Adapt range, you will also likely be a fan of this profile as there are genuine similarities in shape.

Furthermore, I preferred how the 'alignment logo' on the top of the crown was both slightly longer and positioned a little further back on the head last time around; whereas it now sits on a top edge banner strip, which, for some reason, doesn't suit my eye as well as it did.

While we are talking aesthetics, I also don't love the new logo - it is lacking the subtlety and sophistication of the previous branding for me.

On a more positive note, the sound has seen a slight improvement from the C725, which I found to be a little tinny if I were being super picky. The Exotics LS delivers a more solid, pleasing, and lower-pitched acoustic at impact, which I think most players will enjoy.

The impact feel remains pleasingly solid, giving you immediate feedback that you’ve struck the ball well (or otherwise), fitting the expectations of a high-end, low-spin carbon driver.

Despite my visual reservations, I was pleased to see that the Exotics LS performed equally as reliably as the C725 model, which I was a big fan of. The Exotics LS is engineered for speed, utilizing a multi-material design that concentrates mass precisely where it maximizes ball speed and minimizes spin and that seems to ring true in the data. This was captured on a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor.

While it isn't sitting right at the very top of the current crop of drivers in terms of raw ball speed, we are talking less than 2 mph below the top performers in this category. For a club in this price bracket, that difference is pretty negligible in the real world and a fitting could well help to close the gap. Its stability and consistency in flight also more than make up for those marginal losses.

The driver had reasonably low spin without being overly aggressive, which is a great characteristic and will make it accessible to more players than some other low-spin offerings. It delivered a strong, penetrating flight ideal for maintaining distance into the wind, and stayed pretty stable even in fairly strong crosswinds, offering up a nice, tight dispersion pattern.

Furthermore, the handling of mishits was dealt with very well for what would generally be deemed a less forgiving, low-spin model.

Tour Edge continues to excel in its dedication to value and customization. The fact that the Exotics LS is priced at $499.99/£379, along with its performance output, makes it a bargain compared to competitors, particularly when you factor in the shaft options.

The brand offers an abundance of custom shaft options at zero upcharge, allowing golfers to dial in a premium shaft - a feature many major OEMs still charge extra for. Furthermore, Tour Edge even offers a trade-in program, lowering the barrier to entry even further.

The Exotics LS is a very impressive low-spin driver for the price. While I may not prefer the new aesthetic, its performance, sound, and unrivalled value proposition make it worthy of testing for any serious golfer.

While Amazon hasn’t come into the market to directly compete with these bigger brands (not yet, at least) I wanted to give the Basics Core Soft golf ball a fair crack at the whip. So I took them onto the course and put them to the test using my Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor to see how they performed and whether you should consider using them.

My first impression was a little underwhelming. The balls don't arrive in a traditional dozen box, instead, you receive four loose sleeves of three balls in a standard Amazon cardboard box. I’m still making up my mind on this - is it a clever eco-conscious design saving on unnecessary packaging, or is this outweighed by the annoyance of now having four loose sleeves rattling around my bag? I’m leaning towards the latter.

Taking the ball out of the sleeve, it doesn't feel great in the hand, largely because the outer cover feels fairly cheap. This initial inspection immediately set my expectations of the ball fairly low, despite already knowing the $15 a dozen price point. The logo was also a little large, which detracted from the overall look.

Out on the course, the ‘Core Soft’ name definitely rings true, especially with the scoring clubs. After just a few chips before my round, I knew I would struggle with distance control with this ball because it felt as though it really jumped off the face. I usually steer towards a firmer feeling ball as I like that ‘clicky’ feel, particularly with my wedges and putter.

When hitting a 50-yard pitch with my usual Pro V1x, I would look to see the ball spin around 7000 rpm. The Amazon Basics Core Soft Ball was around 2000 rpm less, which was a little concerning to see.

When moving through the bag, I started to realise centred hits with my irons would feel good, yet often fall five yards or so short of where I usually am. This trend continued when stepping back to the tee, yet if anything was exaggerated.

To put it simply, the distance output was low due to the ball spinning up quite a bit, especially on heel strikes - something that was also shown by my Foresight GC3 launch monitor. It just didn't seem to have the 'pop' of some of the other best value golf balls or best cheap golf balls.

While I felt a lot of the time the Basics Core Soft ball ballooned up in the air, losing energy, which ultimately robbed it of distance, I also saw some strange behaviour from the rough, where ironically it didn’t seem to spin enough, and I experienced quite a few ‘flyers’. On average, though, particularly from the fairway, going long of the green was no issue as I was consistently shorter than with my usual gamer (Titliest Pro V1x). I would typically see my 7-iron carry around the 175-yard mark and my longest carry with the Amazon Basics Core Soft ball was 169.

If distance is something you prioritise, you may want to look elsewhere, although those with slower swing speeds might not see as significant a drop off in speed and distance as I did.

Usually, I would look for my ball to spin at around 2100/2200rpm which, with my clubhead speed and launch characteristics, would usually see the ball carry around the 300-yard mark. As you can see from the data below, this ball fell on average 20 yards short of this, likely due to the excessive backspin.

While Amazon's entry into the market is noteworthy, this first attempt feels more like a box-ticking exercise than a case to become a serious contender in the market. Golfers who enjoy a soft feel above all else might find some appeal, or those who have just started and want superb value per ball ($1.33) they can afford to lose in the trees.

But for most players, the significant drawbacks in distance, spin and consistency will likely be a deal-breaker and see them return to one of the best golf balls with better all-around performance from tee to green.

At address, the Phantom 11R OC is a sleek, high-MOI mallet that boasts an exceptionally clean aesthetic. The single, short sight line offers clean alignment, and I felt it helped match the putter face up square to my target, particularly when using a line on the ball as well.

The minimal one-degree of shaft lean is something that I love with this putter, as I found other zero torque putters, such as the L.A.B. Golf OZ.1i and the PXG Allan putter, have far more shaft lean, putting your hands in an unorthodox position.

The Phantom 11R OC promotes a natural hand position and a clear, unimpeded view of the topline. The ‘R’ in its name signifies softer, more rounded edges than the standard Phantom 11, which is far more linear and sharper, creating a flowing and confidence-inspiring profile.

For many golfers seeking to quiet their hands and minimize face rotation, low-torque putters are where they have turned, but listening to feedback from golfers and experiencing it myself, these putters have often resulted in sacrificing feel. The OC (Onset Center) name refers to the fact that the shaft is set back from the leading edge and enters the head directly through the head's center of gravity, delivering maximum stability for a square-to-the-path stroke.

What really helps this putter stand out against others in the same category is the weight of the head and, therefore, the feel you receive back from it. This feedback is also a product of the club's entire body construction due to the head weighing 15 grams heavier than standard models, all while balanced by a custom black shaft and a tapered Scotty Cameron Matador Mid grip, ensuring the putter feels connected in your hands.

The grip for me fitted in my hands perfectly and gave me immediate feedback when rolling the rock. It was clear Scotty Cameron's R&D team made responsiveness a clear priority and the addition of a full chain-link milling pattern - the same one we saw in the newest Studio Line, providing a soft-yet-solid feel at impact, and really helped me with my distance control.

The Phantom 11R OC delivers a satisfying, muted ‘click’ without feeling too dull, the perfect amount to provide good feedback on strike and distance control, without being overly intrusive.

The performance is something to admire for anyone who fights an overactive putter face and wants a premium-looking putter that provides the same feel and feedback as some of the best putters on the market. The Onset Center technology is immediately noticeable with the putter head simply not wanting to twist, although it does take a little time to get used to if moving from a conventional putting style.

The Scotty Cameron Phantom 11R OC putter promotes a straight-back-and-through motion with almost no effort, calming the hands and letting the bigger muscles control the stroke by simply rocking your shoulders. This stability is already tour-proven with the likes of Australian Elvis Smylie, winning his first two events immediately after switching to the 11R OC, citing its setup for improving his consistency.

At £499, the Scotty Cameron Phantom 11R OC putter is at the higher end of the scale when it comes to price, but I truly think it’s justified due to the blend of premium aesthetics and top-quality performance and feel.

Early zero-torque or toe-up models from each of the major manufacturers often required a significant and fairly unnatural forward press grip in order to sit square. Odyssey's new S2S Tri-Hot line has been introduced as a solution to this, and so I took the classic #7 model onto the course to see if this is truly the case.

The #7 is one of three putters in the new S2S Tri-hot lineup (4 if you include the Jailbird Cruiser option), all of which are designed with the brand’s philosophy in mind - "We've moved Zero Torque Forward". This has been achieved through a complex multi-material construction head, unlocking the ability to have the shaft enter the head far closer the the face.

From using lightweight aluminum and steel as well as over 140 grams of tungsten (which is a lot!), Odyssey moved the CG so far forward that over 80 percent of the weight now sits below the topline of the putter. To produce a putter that has zero torque, the shaft must be positioned directly above the center of gravity, creating what is otherwise known as a toe-up balance point.

With the head weight so far forward, the shaft can also enter the head right above the topline, meaning these putters look much more like conventional center-shafted putters rather than zero-torque putters at address. This is something that has bothered me with other zero-torque putters I have tested, so when I first looked down on the putters in this range, I was extremely excited to test them out.

At address, the difference is night and day from the previous S2S range. The putter just sits perfectly square and flush to the ground with no manipulation, and the red and black color scheme looks really clean thanks to the matte finish. This new, cleaner look is a huge visual upgrade and makes alignment effortless, particularly in the #7 shape that I tested.

The "fangs" are already a superb alignment tool, but combined with the new cross-hair system, I found it very straightforward to set up to my intended target. The reduction in shaft lean meant I wasn’t fixated on my hand positioning, and I could just let the putter fall into place, and I was good to go.

The feel is the other major story (and upgrade) over the previous Square 2 Square design, thanks to a new Ai-dual insert that is noticeably softer and more responsive than the previous generation. It truly brought back the nostalgia of the original White Hot insert and how cushioned that felt.

This AI-designed, dual-layer insert has a soft outer layer and a firm inner layer, creating a soft, yet responsive sensation. It gives you the plush feel of urethane but with a positive, responsive roll. This is largely down to the new F.R.D. Groove Design, which gets the ball turning end-over-end immediately, thanks to grooves that are positioned at a 19° angle to promote forward roll and consistency.

The entire putter gives off a premium aura, and while they do come to retail at a fairly premium price point ($549/£499), everything I saw and felt when testing goes a long way to justifying it given how many shots are hit with a putter during a round.

The whole lineup features a heavier and stiffer Black SL 120 shaft and a new Pistol Plus grip, which I was a massive fan of. It sat in my hands perfectly and reminded me of a Super Stroke Pistol 2.0 - another putter grip I’ve used regularly over the past few years.

The S2S Tri-Hot #7 and the other putters in the lineup get a double thumbs up from me. It takes the cheat-code stability of "zero torque" and puts it into an intuitive, great-feeling, and confidence-inspiring package that finally feels natural at address and produced a consistent performance when I put it to the test out on the course.

It’s lightweight, but the first thing I noticed is that the fabric is quite crunchy, golfers will know exactly what I mean by this! It only comes in Twilight, which is all-over navy and highlighted by bright pink taped seams back and front, and at the bottom of each sleeve.

The color and curved shaping of these seams are what makes this jacket so striking. It’s very, as when your arms are down by your side, even though the front and sleeve seams are separate, it creates the look of one continuous seam. I also like the way the slanted zipped side pockets in the same pink blend into the seams.

I tested this jacket in a size small and it’s very roomy, plenty big enough to wear a few layers underneath. The seams give it a shapely impression, but it’s not as fitted as say, Sunderland’s Whisperdry Aurora jacket, or KJUS Women’s Pro 3L 3.0 jacket. It’s also not as long in the body, which I like from a styling standpoint. This jacket is more boxy looking, and some women might prefer a longer length for more coverage across their backside.

We’ve seen how the hoodie has become popular, and now it’s great to see the number of brands producing waterproof jackets with hoods. This one provides complete coverage, but like Galvin Green’s Andrea jacket, it would be great if it had toggles to adjust the fit, as when I tried to hit shots with the hood up, while it kept my head dry, it did move and interfere with my vision. I made sure I used the Velcro tabs on the sleeves to secure the fit around my wrists.

As for overall performance, given my first impression of the fabric, it is slightly more noisy than other waterproof jackets that I’ve tested, but not to the extent that it was off-putting in any way. I would have liked to have tightened the hem, if anything, to stop it rising up a little.

That said, it did its job and kept the rain out, albeit light showers rather than a heavy downpour, but there’s no reason to believe that this jacket wouldn’t perform in the most severe weather conditions. Out of all the waterproof jackets I’ve tested, this is definitely one of the most stylish, but I wouldn’t expect anything less from G/FORE!

Unlike the more structured hooded jackets, like the FootJoy Hydroknit, it lacks the rigidity of a traditional waterproof. But that isn’t a negative, this is designed for practicality and to be a lifesaver when the weather turns on you.

Made with advanced waterproof technology and fully taped seams, I felt I was pulling on a jacket to wear for sailing. Not because it felt like sealskins, but because it gave me confidence it was built for this very purpose. Granted, it looks like an anorak, but once out of a small pocket (it fits into my bag’s ball pocket), this jacket means business as the best women's golf rain gear.

The material is predominantly recycled, and the material feels silky and whisper soft, unlike so many plastic feeling anoraks. The feathery patterned design is a breath of fresh air. Finally brands are starting to add some pattern to waterproof jackets, like Sunderland’s Whisperdry Aurora jacket.

Adidas has pulled out a trendy design that looks great on the golf course or for any other outdoor activity. It’s a shame it only comes in one colour, though the purple silver shades are stunning.

It comes with a customisable hem thanks to a bungee, so you can tighten and tuck under for extra protection or leave looser. The full pocket at the front is brilliant, it’s enormous, like a kangaroo pouch and is perfect for storing gloves or a hat.

The fit is regular, rather than fitted and allows room for a warm layer or two underneath, but genuinely, this keeps the wind out so well, it’s been perfect in autumn storms.

I first tested it out during storm Amy while on a football pitch. Considering it’s a pull-on jacket, which some may find hard work when battling the elements on the course, I thought it went on easily, helped by the taped neck zip. It immediately blocked out gale force winds and the rain just beaded off. It’s also machine washable which is a bonus especially after a muddy training session.

I feel like I stopped testing this jacket early on and began to simply rely on it for so many activities. It’s at the higher end price wise for what feels on first impression like a pack-away anorak, but this jacket is so much more than that and I’d say well worth the price tag. Now I just need adidas to make one for the dog, as he’s jealous!

Its latest offering, the TPT Nitro shaft, aims to deliver maximum stability and feel, and I was excited to put this shaft through its paces to see if its unique manufacturing process translates into the kind of tight dispersion every golfer dreams of.

How We Test Shafts

All of our shaft testing is conducted using the same TaylorMade Qi35 core head driver set to a precise 9 degrees (measured), with each shaft cut to an exact length of 45.5 inches, fitted with a Golf Pride Tour Velvet 60R grip. Furthermore, all testing shots are struck from a white castle tee to ensure consistent tee height during testing.

The data is collected and recorded using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and TaylorMade TP5x golf balls .

Controlling these potential variables allows me to draw accurate and direct comparisons and form a clear picture of each shaft's performance and feel characteristics.

TPT Nitro Shaft Review: Technology

The TPT Nitro distinguishes itself immediately in its construction. During the process of cutting and installing the adapter to my demo model, I immediately noticed how thin the shaft walls are compared to a competitor like the Fujikura Ventus.

TPT uses a unique automated process to continuously wind carbon fibers, eliminating the inconsistencies inherent in traditional roll-wrapping.

This method creates a perfectly uniform spine and manifests itself in the aforementioned 'thinner-than-normal' wall structure, which is the secret sauce behind the company's stability claims.

For my testing, I tried the 16/LO shaft (a 65-gram shaft that translates to an S+ flex, sitting between stiff and X-stiff).

TPT Nitro Shaft Review: Performance

My first impressions when waggling the club pre-shot were great. I loved how responsive the shaft felt - not soft, just plenty of feel and feedback throughout, providing a really smooth and friendly feeling under the hands, suggesting a refined, uniform energy transfer.

In the swing, the Nitro continued to impress me. The feeling was the absolute counterpoint of harsh or boardy, and despite its relatively high stiffness rating, I could feel the load and unload happening in a seamless, fluid way.

The launch monitor numbers were very similar for me to the Fujikura VeloCore+ Ventus Blue shaft that I tested a few weeks ago, matching its high ball speed and launch window.

However, the standout feature of this shaft was its remarkable dispersion. While sometimes you can just stumble across a shaft that simply matches your delivery and all the moons and stars align, this is not an isolated finding with TPT for me.

I tested the previous iteration in my former life as a fitter and was equally blown away with the tight down-range dispersion of that shaft, too, suggesting something in the tech is very much doing its job. I typically operate at a dispersion average of around 15 yards, but with the TPT Nitro shaft it was down to 10 yards - a level I have not experienced before - with a much smaller standard deviation too.

I can't fully explain it - I'm not intelligent enough to delve into the micro-manufacturing reasons this might be the case - but every single time I test a TPT product, I know it isn’t going to take me very long to collect my practice balls because they are generally right next to each other!

The consistent, repeatable nature of the manufacturing seems to translate directly into unparalleled accuracy down the fairway.

TPT Nitro Shaft Review: Verdict

The TPT Nitro shaft delivers a compelling combination of speed, feel, and stability that makes it a standout offering in the premium aftermarket shaft market, and make no mistake about it, it is premium, coming in at $650.

Its smooth, responsive profile and impressive speed output are only surpassed by its frankly ludicrous consistency. If you are a golfer looking to eliminate the wide miss and prioritize tight dispersion above all else, the TPT Nitro should be the very first shaft on your testing list.

I've had the opportunity to put five of their most popular current wood shafts through a rigorous testing process to understand their unique feel and performance characteristics.

How We Test Shafts

All of our shaft testing is conducted using the same TaylorMade Qi35 core head set to a precise 9 degrees (measured), with each shaft cut to an exact length of 45.5 inches, fitted with a Golf Pride Tour Velvet 60R grip. Furthermore, all testing shots are struck from a white castle tee to ensure consistent tee height during testing.

The data is collected and recorded using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and TaylorMade TP5x golf balls.

Controlling these potential variables allows me to draw accurate and direct comparisons and form a clear picture of each shaft's performance and feel characteristics.

Graphite Design Tour AD Shafts: Technology

The core of Graphite Design's reputation lies in its meticulous use of premium, high-modulus materials, particularly Torayca M40X Carbon Fiber. This material is employed in critical areas of the shaft to maximize stability and minimize unwanted twisting (or ovalization) during the swing.

Unlike many competitors that use a continuous flex core, Graphite Design focuses on distinct bend profiles for each model, ensuring the shaft loads and unloads precisely where the golfer needs it most. Its proprietary DI Technology allows for a generally softer mid-section feel without sacrificing control through impact, a characteristic that defines their most popular shafts.

Graphite Design Tour AD VF

The VF is built for speed and extreme stability, aiming for a low/mid launch with low spin, and before his latest injury layoff is a shaft you may have seen in the driver of the great Tiger Woods.

Immediately upon setting up to the ball, the profile of the VF felt incredibly robust in my hands. The waggle felt very rigid, with little to no give under the handle section, very much indicating what was to come.

In the swing, it was more of the same. I felt very little give or play in any section of the shaft, and felt it required a very aggressive move to get the most out of the profile. Definitely not a shaft for the faint of heart.

The only word to describe the impact feel of the VF is solid. The stiff tip section resists rotation very well through the strike, offering a penetrating ball flight with minimal curvature. If anything, my shot pattern favored a slight block off to the right, which felt to me was down the very strong tip section, not allowing me to square the clubface up quite as quickly as I would have liked.

Visually, I am a big fan of all the Graphite Design Tour AD shaft range with their familiar rings, and the red/black contrast on show with the VF is a very premium look.

In terms of comparison, if you’re someone who has found good results with the Ventus Black profiles or the Diamana WB, this is certainly a shaft worth testing. Stability and heft are on offer in abundance with the Tour AD VF.

Choose this shaft if:
You possess high clubhead speed and an aggressive transition. Could also be an ideal choice for a player who battles a persistent pull-hook.

Avoid this shaft if:
You are a moderate speed and tempo player whose shot pattern is either a push or a cut (unless you want to double down and ensure this shape).

Graphite Design Tour AD CQ

The CQ profile is designed primarily to be a mid-to-low launch shaft with controlled mid-spin, prioritizing stability and tight dispersion. In terms of how that looks in terms of the key sections of the shaft, it features a fairly stiff butt and mid section, with a slightly more active tip than some of the other shafts in the Graphite Design offering.

The feel in terms of the waggle was noticeably firmer than the very popular DI (below), but definitely not as demanding as the VF; however, I wouldn’t necessarily say that this waggle feel carried over into the full swing.

The slightly more active tip section gave a sense of kick and life to impact that I really enjoyed. It is worth noting that for me, this tip section produced a little more dynamic loft and a slightly higher ball flight than my current ‘gamer’ shaft, the Fujikura Ventus Velocore+ Black.

Based on that active tip section, I am very keen to test this out as a fairway wood shaft next.

Overall, I found the CQ offered exceptional consistency; while lively, the shaft felt very controlled, staying with my body rotation well through the transition, and for me at least promoted a nice, consistent center contact. This shaft provides excellent structure without being overly harsh, making it ideal for players who want to raise their trajectory slightly for better carry without sacrificing the stability needed to find the fairway.

Choose this shaft if:
You value stability, but also need a little help with launch.

Avoid this shaft if:
You are an over spinner of the golf ball with the driver.

Graphite Design Tour AD DI

The DI could stake a claim to being the most famous shaft in the modern era (it is certainly the most recognizable) and is celebrated far and wide for its unique feel and noted high launch, low spin performance.

Having tested the DI profile numerous times before, I kind of knew what to expect. I launch and spin the ball quite high with the driver personally, so I have often steered towards stiffer profiles with lower launch characteristics, and as normal, I found much the same in my testing.

The feel when waggling at address is not too harsh or stiff, particularly in the mid-section, yet the tip section felt stable and reassuringly predictable. In the swing, I could feel the shaft load beautifully, creating a sensation of effortless power that translated into excellent ball speed and higher peak height.

While the feel is absolutely exquisite, I have to knock off a little too much loft in my driver setup to make this a comfortable option for me off the tee. That said, with many people craving a little more launch, this is a brilliant option to combine launch and stability.

The CQ (above) does a great job of that launch and stability combo too; however, for me, the DI does so in a more balanced and subtle way. While you can really feel the tip section working on the CQ, the DI produces somewhat similar launch numbers for me, but with a more balanced spin output and a very ‘together’ feel through the swing.

Look around the next time you are watching golf on TV, and I guarantee you will see a huge number of these familiar orange shafts in both hybrids and utility irons on professional tours around the world. For some reason, the DI profile and hybrids/utilities are a match made in heaven, and if you haven’t already, it is a must-try.

Choose this shaft if:
You are looking for launch, but without excessive spin

Avoid this shaft if:
You are seeking a low ‘bullet’ ball flight

Graphite Design Tour AD GC

The GC features a technical, mid-low-spin profile built for stability. It has a pretty hefty, stiff handle section, and gets a little softer down towards the tip of the club, so I was anticipating a little bit of extra dynamic loft (delivered loft at impact) than I would ordinarily be used to.

In practice, I didn’t really find that at all. This is an incredibly well-balanced shaft. The GC offers a wonderfully smooth feel, and while it can absolutely support a strong tempo and high speeds, it doesn’t demand it to make the shaft work.

To me, it felt just a touch stiffer than the DI in transition and offered a very strong, low-piercing trajectory that was excellent for cutting through the wind. The stability throughout the downswing was palpable, making it feel very difficult to miss wildly offline.

I really enjoyed the feel and performance of the GC, and this is a real contender for a place in my bag based on that. The only thing that may stop that (and I appreciate this is ridiculous!), would be the color. Something about the white and copper combo doesn’t really suit my eye, but many will disagree.

Choose this shaft if:
You generate decent speed and want a smooth feel, producing a penetrating trajectory that maximizes roll.

Avoid this shaft if:
You are seeking more height on your tee shots

Graphite Design Tour AD UB

The UB offers a mid-launch, low-spin profile, which, in theory, should be optimal for the launch characteristics we know produce the longest drives.

In terms of the waggle test, it immediately felt very smooth and pliable, likely due to being one of the softest shafts in the range under the grip section. The overall profile is what Graphite Design calls a ‘Medium+’ stiffness under the grip and in the mid-section, before transitioning to a ‘Stiff+’ in the tip section to keep that dynamic loft, and as such, spin under control.

In swing, the UB offered some really nice feedback, and I found it to be in all the right places at the right times during my standard golf swing, although when I did decide to ramp up the speed a little, I found myself craving the stability of a VF or even DI profile.

I found the UB to be a very versatile performer, delivering strong ball speeds and a dependable mid-height flight with no hint of floatiness due to any excessive spin.

Impact offered a noticeable, solid thump due to the relatively stiff tip section, and on the whole, my dispersion was notably tighter than almost all of the other shafts in the family for me personally.

For some reason, I had a hunch that this would be a great mini-driver shaft for me, so I duly loaded up into my TaylorMade Burner Copper mini (albeit gripping down), and the results were absolutely as I’d hoped. A nice high-ish launch window, coupled with some really stable and consistent spin numbers, was exactly what I was looking for and something I will absolutely be pursuing a little more moving forward.

While it may not be that important, I think this colorway suited my eye the most of the whole family, with the blue and grey combining brilliantly. This shaft will appeal to golfers who need low spin for distance but want a smoother feel and easier loading characteristics than the most aggressive low-spin options on the market.

Choose this shaft if:
You place a premium on accuracy and enjoy a solid impact feel.

Avoid this shaft if:
You need a bit of give in the tip section to square your clubface.

Verdict

The Graphite Design Tour AD family remains an absolute favorite among gearheads around the world, and for good reason. It is one of the most comprehensive shaft ranges out there (if a little confusing at times), and each shaft is a carefully engineered tool designed to meet specific launch and spin needs.

Whether you crave the sublime feel and height of the DI, the uncompromising low-spin control of the VF, or the consistent stability of the CQ, there is an optimized AD shaft for your swing. The level of quality and consistency across the entire range ensures that once you find your ideal profile, you can trust that performance will be repeatable and reliable.

SuperSpeed golf helped me do just that by sending me the Force Board Pro, a unique training device which encourages us to use the ground to generate force and not only improve our golf swing, but to increase our clubhead speed at the same time.

I've used this board on and off for all of 2025, religiously in the colder months and more sparingly in the summer as I focused less on a swing change I was going through and more on simply going out and attempting to play golf, rather than play my golf swing - if that makes sense. During this time, I got a lot of 'what is that??' questions thrown my way whilst on the range, so before continuing with this review, it's important I answer that question first.

Force Board Pro is a dual sided adaptive training platform which comes with different attachments to help you create customized drills for stability, balance and correct use of the ground to create more speed and power. It's all about giving the user a platform to learn how to use the ground to create pressure shift, lateral force, torque, and vertical force.

The best way I can explain this is to talk you through the swing change I went through in 2025 - I've always been a short hitter, mainly because I don't use my lower body enough to generate speed. My goal was to create more hip turn and my trigger to do this on the back swing was the transfer my weight to my back right heel - by using the Force Board Pro, I played the green attachment under my heel to emphasize the feel I was looking for.

The two-sided board can be used in different ways, too. Placing the firmer, larger grey attachment in the middle of the underside of the board turns it into a balance board which you can use to create that sensation of your weight shifting in your golf swing.

No matter your ability, any golfer can benefit from using this board, especially once paired with the SuperSpeed app which will guide your through specific drills for what you want to improve. Whether it's using the attachments to increase hip turn like I have, using the board and attachments to work on feet alignment or just general balance, there's a wide range of things you can work on.

Two green circle attachments, two gray oval attachments, two red tri-circle attachments, eight yellow pegs and a very useful carry bag which makes this board easy to transport. It's worth noting this is a rather large board, so may not be the easiest to store, but it fitted well in the floor of the trunk of my car alongside my sticks.

The majority of the time I used the board was outside, but I did notice two things in terms of its use. Firstly, I'd recommend wearing a pair of spikeless golf shoes as the firm feeling of the board means your studs won't dig into the board like the would with grass, meaning you don't get much grip. I'd also acknowledge that if the grass is damp underfoot or it is raining, the grip you have on the board will suffer as a result, meaning it's best used either inside or when it is dry outside.

My 2025 has been a difficult one in terms of my performance due to the serious swing changes I've undergone, but using the Force Board Pro has given a great platform to undergo these changes and help me really feel them underfoot and receive feedback through the swing. It's also taught me a lot more about not only my own golf swing, but how we have to use the ground to generate speed and power.

This will be a piece of kit I can see myself using for years to come, for anything from continuing my swing changes to even giving myself balance-based challenges on the range to spice up practice sessions - it's easy to frown at the price once you see it, but the versatility of this training aid and how beneficial it can prove to be make it a must try for those looking to work hard on their game over the winter.

Though dubbed a high top, I see the new Biom H5 High Top as more of a golf boot, or just a more comprehensive golf shoe option for the autumn and winter months. I was excited to see how it stacked up against similarly designed shoes in some wet autumnal weather.

This is a literal extension of the Biom H5 shoe I tested earlier this year. Supremely comfortable, but not without its flaws, this high-top version has a much higher ankle area and a slightly different pattern and design across the upper. I’ll start with the standout feature, which is undoubtedly the BOA lacing system. This dial fastening and loosening system is a joy to use (as it is on other BOA shoes I’ve tested) and allows you to get a more customised fit as well as adjust the tightness of the shoe on the move with such ease. It makes a lot of sense to have this system on a shoe that will predominantly be used over the winter.

The comfort is strong as well, as it always has been for me, testing the best Ecco golf shoes. The boot’s weather resistance is ensured by the proprietary Ecco-Tex waterproof membrane, which keeps your feet dry and comfortable even in the wettest conditions, while the BOA fit system does the job of providing adjustability to fine-tune the fit of the boot and mould to your foot shape.

Beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder with this shoe’s design. I’ve had plenty of feedback from colleagues and playing partners, ranging from sublime to ridiculous, snow boot to high-end trainer. I’ll leave you to make up your mind on the looks, but for me it’s an undeniably bold design that, if you’re comparing it to a golf boot, is a much better job than the black lumps of plastic I’ve often tested.

From a practical point of view, this shoe certainly lends itself to autumn and winter wear. The high ankle stops any water or other detritus from creeping into your feet, while also offering a good amount of support around the ankle and heel, unlike a standard shoe. It’s not the most breathable shoe in the world, great for the cold winter months to keep your feet warm, but a little stuffy if you’re wearing them on a mild day.

However, much like the sister shoe, I wasn’t all that impressed with the outsole. Though competent in dry and damp conditions, I don’t have full confidence in my grip in fully wet conditions. The lugs don’t offer the same ground penetration as the likes of the outsole of the Adidas Adizero ZG, and I just don’t think it’s a great outsole unless you’re playing in dry conditions.

If we look at this as a competitor to the humble golf boot, it’s a very stylish and practical differentiator to the often dull and clunky winter boot. Only the outsole lets down this otherwise good golf shoe.

The clever designers at Under Armour have used a fluorine-free water repellent treatment, which effectively means that rain water is repelled off the surface of the material, it reacts just like rain water hitting a concrete road, and runs away.

What I love about this jacket is that the highly waterproof nature of the material doesn’t come at the compromise of comfort or swing freedom. It’s neither heavy or too thick, and you certainly don’t feel like you’re wearing a straight jacket when you make your swing.

The velcro cuffs allow you to adjust the fit to suit your preferred choice of tightness. I never like to feel that the jacket arms get in the way, especially when I putt, so this to me is invaluable. There are also inner toggles that allow you to choose whether the body fit feels tight or slightly looser, accommodating all shapes and body sizes.

All of the zips are seam-sealed to ensure absolute weather tightness and they operate smoothly. The collar height is a little lower than others I have tested in the past, like ProQuip's Darcey and adidas's Rain.RDY, but nevertheless still tall enough to avoid rain slipping down your neck.

It’s hard to really fault this jacket and that’s reflected in my high star rating as the best women's golf rain gear. However, if I had the choice of colour I would sooner pick something that’s a little brighter or has a subtle hint of a pattern, a shimmer or something to make me feel more feminine wearing it. The navy blue is really quite boring and the sort of jacket that looks unisex enough that I could put my son in it.

Life with the Lux Looper started well. Vessel’s signature clean look and premium materials make this a highly desirable object. If you’re into accessorising your bag with funky headcovers and towels, this is the perfect blank canvas to let your personality show. The plush finish on the shoulder straps and dividers, the magnet opening of the rangefinder pocket and two water battle pockets, and the real-leather zippers make this bag feel like you’ve got every penny’s worth of your investment.

There’s plenty of room for a full set of clubs thanks to the 4-way divider. I often carry a full set of 14, plus and 15th practice club and alignment sticks all at one, and the Lux Pro showed no evidence of club crowding.

It’s comfortable to carry too, sitting perfectly on the shoulders and bag, all ably supported by well-padded and well-fitted shoulder straps that have been built with an excellent amount of cushioning. You can use either the EQ2 double strap (which cleverly self-adjusts as you walk to balance weight) or the padded single strap, if that is more your vibe.

The hip padding has been cleverly made a lot more streamlined than on previous Vessel models I've tested. It makes for a much for streamlined look than most other stand bags - which have protruding padding - while still offering excellent comfort as you walk.

It’s not the most lightweight stand bag either, coming in at 3.4kg (7.4lbs). Though not officially a hybrid stand bag - a category of bag that can be used as a stand or cart bag interchangeably - I used the Lux Pro a couple of times on my Motocaddy QB2 with no hassle. The base fits universally onto any trolley mount, the legs can be neatly tied down, and the straps can be so easily attached and detached that the Lux Pro can be turned into a mini cart bag of sorts very quickly.

With all this in mind, what’s this bag’s fatal flaw holding it back from perfection? There’s no full-length pocket. This means nowhere to carry extra apparel, squeeze in a sandwich, or carry any of the other detritus golfers (especially me) like to carry around. There are two pockets placed low and on the side of the bag, both about the size of an A4 piece of paper, which could just about squeeze a light midlayer, but you really have to screw it up to fit it in.

Above these two pockets are two valuables-sized pockets, which are well placed, but can only really hold a phone and a wallet in each. I do like the two very front pockets, the front of which is for balls and the back I’ve used to hold a rangefinder for easy access. This pocket also has internal dividers, making organisation that bit easier - one of many clever touches across the bag. Despite this, storage isn’t the Lux Pro’s strong suit, and this bag is for the golfer who carries the bare minimum on the course. In the month I’ve been testing this bag, I’ve had to use a playing partner’s bags to carry my waterproofs and lunch - not ideal.

If you’re lucky enough to be playing regularly in conditions where you know you never need an extra layer, then this flaw doesn’t affect you, and you can enjoy all of the great things about this bag. However, if you’re always carrying around extra clothing, this bag simply isn’t for you.

Vessel - which is based out of California - has obviously made this bag for the fair-weather golfer in mind, and that is fine. With that in mind, perhaps testing this bag across the start of autumn in the UK has given the Lux Pro an unfair hand, seeing as it isn’t made for these conditions.

This is still a gorgeous bag with all of the great details you’d expect from a product designed and produced by Vessel. Vessel bags are clearly designed by seasoned golfers, and every bit of attention to detail has been taken care of on the Lux Looper. All Vessel golf bags fill something of a niche; however, this feels like a niche within a niche to me. If you’re looking to indulge in a Vessel stand bag, I’d point you in the direction of a couple of other options before the Lux Looper. That being said, if you feel you fit the niche this bag fills, you will undoubtedly enjoy every moment of this luxurious, somewhat decadent and certainly beautiful stand bag.

Now, it has taken this golf know-how and applied it to balls for the first time. The company claims its new Exotics ball produces ‘incredible numbers’, something I was very keen to put to the test.

WATCH: Joel Tadman tests the performance of the Tour Edge Exotics ball

In terms of technology, the Tour Edge Exotics ball is a three piece design with a urethane cover, much like that of the market leading Titleist Pro V1 in terms of construction. It boasts a high speed KinetiCore said to deliver speed, distance and stability in the wind while the fast, soft ionomer mantle layer helps with accuracy and control on approach shots. For short game spin, there’s the cast urethane cover.

On first inspection out of the box, the Tour Edge Exotics looks well made. It has a slightly duller finish than the bright white Pro V1 and the dimples don’t appear to be as tightly packed together. This explains the 318 dimple pattern total versus the Pro V1’s 388.

On the Exotics there’s also a visible seam around the golf where the two halves have been joined, whereas on most of the best premium balls it is more seamless (pun intended). This used to affect performance back in the day but the USGA’s symmetry test now ensures every ball performs similarly in different orientations.

The ball also sports Tour Edge’s new modern logo, which looks smart, and the sidestamp should be effective enough for golfers that use a line on their ball to help them on the greens.

As I clipped a few chips away it was noticeable how soft the Exotics ball felt, it didn’t sound as clicky as the Pro V1, although the difference was fairly subtle. Overall the Tour Edge probably had a slightly higher flight on chip and pitches but the level of grab on the second bounce was comparable.

I then took the ball indoors and gathered data on the Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor, hitting a 50-yard pitch shot, 7-iron and driver with each. The data painted a similar picture in that the numbers were very comparable, almost identical in fact. The Pro V1 provided a touch more spin with a wedge and a little more speed and distance with the driver, but we’re talking minimal differences.

But to properly assess the Tour Edge ball, I needed to hit it out on the course. So I hit three drives with the Exotics and three with the Titleist Pro V1. This is important because photometric launch monitors use algorithms to calculate distance and don’t factor in the effect of dimple design and aerodynamics, which ball companies rightly place a lot of value in.

Having hit some well-struck drives with each, it appeared that the Pro V1 started to separate a little more. While I probably struck one of the shots with the Titleist slightly better, to see it finish 14 yards further than my best hit with the Tour Edge was a surprise. I’m speculating of course, but it appeared the Pro V1 did a better job of cutting through the slight head wind and maximising total distance.

But in summary, the Tour Edge Exotics ball certainly held its own and when you consider it comes in at just $39.99 per dozen compared to the $55 of the Pro V1, you could argue there’s better value to be had, especially for golfers that prioritise performance into and around the greens as well as a soft feel.

More and more companies are making competitive products at the premium end of the ball market that are genuinely comparable to the established choices. We’ve seen it with balls like the Mizuno Pro X, the Snell Prime 3.0, the Vice Pro Plus and even the Kirkland Signature to a degree, and Tour Edge is another ball that performs well tee-to-green for a more than reasonable price.

The brand’s new Pertex waterproof jacket (and accompanying waterproof trousers) is its first foray into full waterproofs, and I was excited to see how the brand could execute a practical garment while still incorporating some of the stylish design cues we’ve come to know Manors for.

The waterproofing is exemplary. The Pertext material delivers a huge 30,000mm waterproof rating - which in layman's terms is a lot - while also having the ability to let moisture vapour escape, meaning you stay dry without ever overheating. The two-way stretch means it also moves with your swing with no restriction, something that can't be said for all of the best golf rain jackets.

What makes this jacket stand out from others I’ve tested is how lightweight and packable it is, making day-to-day use all the more convenient. The jacket barely weighs anything, hardly making an impression over a midlayer when wearing it on course and never inhibiting the swing. The technology in the fabric makes it incredibly breathable too, meaning it can be worn comfortably on those wet and mild days as easily as when it’s wet and cold.

It can also be packed into its own carry bag, complete with a convenient carabiner clip, which is a really smart touch and one that makes the day-to-day use of a jacket that little bit easier. Stuff it down the bottom of the apparel pocket on your bag, or clip it to the accessory station for even quicker access - it’s a brilliant idea.

Design-wise, in truth, there’s not much you can do with a waterproof jacket. Despite this, Manors has done a great job adding subtle design cues where necessary to still make this feel like a fashionable choice on course. The fit is excellent (aided by the adjustable cuffs on the arms), and the logos and writing down the back offer something for the eye to enjoy, rather than just a plain black jacket.

It’s not too ‘golfy’ either, which can’t be said for many waterproofs. Not that I’m embarrassed to be a golfer, far from it, but something I don’t want to wear a FootJoy jacket away from the golf course and scream to the world I’m a golfer. This Manors jacket is an ‘if you know, you know’ situation where non-golfers will see it as a normal rain jacket, meaning I can wear it with much more confidence off the course, helping warrant the investment too.

It can't be all positive, though, and the jacket does make a lot more noise than a lot of the other best waterproof jackets we’ve tested, rustling quite a lot as you move and swing. Of course, all waterproofs do this due to the nature of the materials, but this was noticeably louder than some, like the HLINC Links jacket or the Ping AquaDrive jacket.

If you’re in the market for a lightweight, packable and well-waterproofed golf jacket for on and off the course, there won’t be much better this winter than what Manors has created here. The subtle but stylish design stands out from the crowd, while the overall execution of the jacket is that of a brand that’s been doing this for years.

Visually, these irons pass the test against some of the best irons for women. The more playful Callaway logo is a nice addition while the graphite effect behind it creates a premium, techy aesthetic. The pale turquoise color scheme isn’t obviously aimed at women golfers, although it certainly appeals to my eye.

The profile at address is generous but not oversized or clunky. There’s a hint of offset and a moderate top line but the dimensions seemed spot on to me and framed the ball nicely. Some may want to see more meat behind the ball, but on the more difficult longer approach shots the hybrids could step up a do the job.

I wasn't expecting to see good shots straight away when hitting my first few balls on the range with these irons but I have to say, the impact of the technology was almost immediate. The feel of the lightweight UST Mamiya Linq Lite shaft made it seem easy to generate the requisite speed without losing awareness of where the clubhead was during my swing.

Off the face, these irons feel springy and consistently so, with a relatively muted sound. Much like the Reva Rise driver, they feature the Ai10x Face optimised with women’s swing data - it’s reassuring to know there is some technology there to assist. I called upon it many times and was surprised at how influential it seemed to be in correcting my ball flight and suppressing any loss of distance, especially from shots struck low on the face.

The 7-iron has a loft of 31°, striking a good balance between providing both speed and height, like the best women's golf clubs always do. I was very happy with some of the shots these irons contributed to and while I perhaps am not at a level that can get the most out of them consistently, there was enough forgiveness on offer to suitably mask all but the worst of strikes.

The Reva Rise irons are available in 6-iron to sand wedge (including an approach wedge) which provides a welcome opportunity to add in hybrids or high-lofted fairway woods to achieve extra distance - I especially enjoyed the 7-wood in this set, it has become my go-to club off the tee on par fours and medium length par threes!

I tested this jacket across several rounds, some of which were in very heavy rain. Water beaded and ran off the shell reliably; at no point did moisture seep through seams or zippers keeping my clothing underneath warm and dry. Against wind, the shell fabric felt solid and I had a comfortable “shielded” sense without feeling claustrophobic - the jacket fit meant that there was not lots of material moving in the harsh wind which allowed a full range of motion in my golf swing. The taped seams and careful detailing seem to do their job at keeping the wind away from your body and the heat in.

The best golf rain jackets also find the sweet spot between allowing breathability so you don't overheat whilst wearing it but also blocking water from the outside coming in. Some of the best cheap golf rain gear do this, some don't. Pleasingly, I didn’t overheat in moderate exertion, and internal condensation was minimal. I combined the jacket with a light quarter zip underneath and found that its a perfect jacket for light layering underneath, this further helps with keeping the wind and rain out and staying warm and dry whilst maintaining comfort.

Although some of the best golf waterproofs now fold up into no size at all, allowing you to fit them easily into your golf bag, the same can't be said for the Z2000 - but that isn't to say it's bulky. It won’t fold down to the size of a tee shirt, but it’s manageable in a carry bag or backpack or even in the large pocket of my golf bag.It does feel slightly more solid than featherweight shells, but that’s the trade for durability and full protective features.

The detailing of this jacket really sets it apart from others in its class. The dual direction YKK Aquaguard zips are superb, they glide smoothly when taking the jacket on and off. My favorite feature of the Z2000 is the cuff system which is quite unique. A clever dot-lock system means that you can silently adjust your fit around your cuffs without disturbing fellow golfers with a traditional velcro system. The anti-chafe chin guard allows you to zip up the jacket fully and feel comfortable and warm, without being scratchy around the chin area.

In terms of sizing, there's an important not that the manufacturer points to - this jacket runs small in terms of sizing. In practical use, I found that what would usually be my “go-to” size was a bit snug over a midlayer. For those who like layering generously, choosing one size up is prudent.

The lifetime waterproof guarantee is also a huge bonus. The guarantee adds a layer of assurance that this jacket is built for longevity and i’m looking forward to wearing it more - it feels great to play golf in.

At a retail price of $610 (US) the Z2000 is certainly a premium purchase. It competes with high-end jackets from leading outdoor and golf apparel brands. The question is whether you’ll fully utilize its capabilities enough to justify the cost. The Z2000 may not be categorically the best in all conditions, but it sits among the top tier of performance shells.

As with other jackets, like Sunderland’s Aurora Whisper and Ping's Milli, Footjoy have added a hood to what was a phenomenal Hydroknit design and I think it’s really enhanced the performance of this item to compete with the best women's golf rain gear.

Some might think a hood would get in the way of visibility during a round of golf but this hood is very cleverly designed. It’s got a fairly wide opening that stays on your head when it’s up, yet you can see out of it peripherally. The toggles either side allow for a customised fit and this is a helpful addition.

The zips are taped, to keep the elements at bay, and I felt completely warm and dry. As with all FootJoy waterproofs there is a pocket inside the jacket on the chest for a scorecard or mobile phone.

First and foremost, this jacket is designed to keep you protected. It is unbeatable when it comes to heavy downpours. Water simply beads away and it dries out fast, so never fills heavy with the weight of water.

Again, you can customise your protection with the adjustable bungee on the bottom. This gives you the ability to alter the fit from tailored jacket to bomber jacket. Pull the lower cord and you can tuck the bottom underneath. It’s therefore a jacket that will suit many body types.

The offering of colours had me scratching my head a little. FootJoy usually offers a few pops of colour in their waterproof jacket armoury. The white, navy and black options feel a bit safe.

I’ve always been a little confused when it comes to having a white waterproof jacket, but the only downside was when I pulled out and put back in my tee peg/ball marker, as it does tend to make the jacket dirty around the pockets. Now this is negligible, as the way this top performs will far outweigh the lack of rainbow colours.

FootJoy jackets do wash really well on a cold wash and it does come up as new each time without forgiving any of the waterproof quality.

The waterproof quality of this jacket impressed me beyond belief. I got caught in a lot of rain and it did the job, but it does come with a lifetime waterproof guarantee.

Made with whisper quiet material you can’t hear it when you’re moving around, which I really like as there’s nothing worse than a crackly jacket. It also boasts brilliant breathability and is increased further by being well vented at the back.

This won’t keep you cosy though, so pick your size to allow a few extra base layers underneath. It’s super stretchy so it makes it easy to house a few warm layers without restricting your swing. It’s great that you can adjust at the hem and waist to get the right fit.

The design is beautiful, I love the turquoise colour of the mint mist print. There are six colors to choose from, so I think every woman will find a jacket to suit their colour palette. None are standard blue, navy or white, which so often swamp this market. This is a real standout jacket from Sunderland and one that you will receive many compliments wearing.

It looks good with the hood up or tucked away in its secret collar! Trying to get the collar back in was a bit fiddly, but I’m not sure there’s a way around tucking away a “secret” hood without a bit of effort.

The hood itself isn’t substantial, but it will cover your head in a sharp shower. It doesn’t quite come up to the standards and performance of other jackets with hoods like Galvin Green's Andrea, Adidas Ultimate365 Anorak or FootJoy’s Hydroknit, but those hoods can’t be hidden away.

The zips are waterproof and have two tone colours including a reflective side. The retro-reflective Sunderland S branding is really funky and the attention to detail is unparalleled.

This is a brilliant option for a waterproof jacket, which matches Sunderland's Montana waterproof trousers in either navy or black. Great job Sunderland, finally jackets that make you look great and match so many different personalities.

Out of the gate, I was a big fan of the looks as Puma have made yet another shoe with a modern aesthetic, with pops and flashes of color interspersed throughout.

For some reason, it actually reminded me of a Nike golf shoe, specifically a blend between the Nike Air Zoom Infinity Tour Next% 2 and Free Golf NN, with Puma's ExoShell engineered mesh upper and flatter design providing a clean, smart look.

Available in five different colorways, I tested the white, black and yellow model in autumn and winter conditions. You may think that the mud and wet underfoot conditions would stain but, I'm happy to report, that the mesh upper wipes and cleans well.

Admittedly, being a spikeless model, I would recommend wearing the Ignite Elevate X in spring and summer. The sole does provide eligible grip in wet conditions, but the overall look is more suited towards shorts and joggers.

That's the looks covered then, so how about the performance? Well, when I initially slipped the golf shoes on, I thought they were slightly on the heavier side but, within moments, they provided a very lightweight feel, which has remained ever since.

What I particularly liked, and a common theme among the best Puma golf shoes, the Ignite Elevate X has a really locked-in and secure feel. This comes from the FloatPlate Technology and the ExoShell Upper, which performed superbly to keep my foot secure through the swing and walking the fairways.

Although my feet embedded into them quickly, the only slight qualm is that I would have liked more padding underfoot.

There is the FloatPlate Technology, which helped the stability, as well as Ignite Foam found on other Puma models. Personally, I thought it performed quite well, but walking the fairways I did find the experience slightly harsh on the soles of my feet.

What I will say is that the Ignite Elevate X would suit those with wide feet. It claims to be a regular fit but, because the mesh upper isn't rigid on the sides, it did expand when my feet were inside the shoe.

What's more, the expansion of the tongue and the lacing system in place helped with the overall comfort, as the adjustability on the shoe was a personal highlight.

Overall, there is a lot to like about the Puma Ignite Elevate X, with the looks and comfort making this a very viable option for the spring and summer conditions. If there was slightly more cushioning underfoot, it would take this from a good golf shoe, to a great one.

Gore-Tex often features in Galvin Green waterproofs, but Andrea is made in a Pertex Shield fabric, a recycled polyester with a PFC-free water repellent treatment. The first thing I noticed was the weight, it’s incredibly light, and made me wonder how it can possibly protect against the elements to form part of the best women's golf rain gear.

I tested this in navy, it’s also available in plain black, so there's nothing really to dislike about the colors for wet weather golf, unless you are particularly fond of splashes of color. Unlike Galvin Green’s popular Amy jacket, which has color contrasting panels and an obvious ‘golf’ look, Andrea is more versatile to wear for everyday outdoor activities, and I like the bright silver double zip, as it does lift the colour and adds a touch of class.

The length is good, it covers most of my backside and I used the toggles at the hem to tighten slightly for an even better fit. I’m pleased that Galvin Green has introduced a hooded jacket, like Ping’s Milli and Adidas' Rain.Rdy.

I’m pleased to report that the hood fitted snug around my head and provided excellent protection. Hidden away inside the hood at the top are toggles to adjust the fit and this allowed me to swing the club without it moving and catching sight of it out of my left eye on my backswing, which I know is what some women find really annoying about hoods.

None of us like having to play in waterproofs, but the lightweight seam-sealed stretch fabric adds to the overall comfort. It didn’t feel bulky at all over a long-sleeve shirt and sweater, and there’s plenty of room for easy movement in the arms.

When the rain came, I adjusted the cuffs using the Velcro tabs, I like the way you can zip up to a high neck for added protection and the two zipped side pockets are concealed - neither me nor my accessories were going to get wet. All-in-all, Andrea did a highly commendable job!

One word came to mind when I took these shoes out of the box - luxury. To begin with the looks, I think these are the prettiest shoes I've ever laid my eyes on. Sun Day Red sorted me out beautifully with the navy and blue colorway and as a man who wears navy during 99.9% of my rounds, it's maybe no surprise I fell in love at first sight. For those that aren't as keen on navy, fear not, there are currently seven different colorways you can choose from. Because of this, I'd argue that these shoes look even better than the Pioneer Cypress shoes, and those look fantastic!

The build is one that enhances the luxurious feel - the Premium Full Grain waterproof leather feels as good as it look and will keep your feet dry when those unexpected showers roll in. You also get two different pairs of laces to choose once the box arrives at your door, one waxed for maximum tie-down performance, the other with a splash of color to elevate your style further.

Once on your feet you'll feel the blucher throat construction which SDR claim enhances both adjustability and comfort. My feet felt secure and at home in these shoes as I walked down the fairway of the first hole during testing, something I can't say about every shoe I've tested. A combination of supple calfskin leather and textile line the inside of the shoe a keep your feet nice and comfortable.

Now, these are premium-style of shoe which means underfoot they're a lot more firm than the majority of other golf shoes. I'll admit, these shoes do require a while to fully break into them. I had the honor of testing them at the fabulous Sunningdale Golf Club in which I was invited to play two round, one on the New Course and one on the Old. I wore these shoes for the first time on the New in the morning and after 9 holes, my feet were a little sore. I'm also prone to blisters, so I was anxious that they would cut my heels up and leave me in pain for the second round. Thankfully, they didn't, but I did change out of them for the second round.

Having now worn them for just over half a dozen rounds, they feel a lot more comfy under foot, but I'd recommend wearing them for a quick 9 holes a few times before committing to a round of 18 holes in them (go up at least half a size if you have wide feet, also).

The proprietary EVA foam with a 6mm heel-to toe-drop, once broken in, provides nice levels of comfort and is complimented by the high-density TPU full-ground contact plate outsole, which brings me onto my next point of praise - the grip on offer here is top notch.

I've been a big fan of some of the best spikeless shoes this year. I love the versatility and simplicity on offer, but wearing these shoes and feeling the grip on offer makes me want to go back to spiked shoes every week!

The aforementioned TPU outsole paired with the 9-cleat configuration featuring removable Pulsar Soft Spikes provided as much grip and security under foot as you could ever ask for. At both Sunningdale and my home course, Royal County Down, I played a number of times in wet weather and didn't come close to slipping once.

I wouldn't recommend these as a shoe to wear every day, unless you're prepared for them to get a little beaten up, which I am not. Instead, I'll be using them as more of a special occasion shoe in which I'm playing a course I've either been lucky enough to be invited to or if I'm playing an important competition. My first experience with Sun Day Red shoes was a really positive one and I'm excited to see what they have in store in the future.

What I didn’t know is that CaddyDaddy had been making bags for a while. A couple of years ago, however, the company decided to up its game in the bag department with the RevCore line.

According to co-founder Rod Dunlap, the idea was to compete in the luxury bag department with a product that retails for significantly less than its competitors. And that’s just what it has done with its RevCore, which includes an LT Lightweight Stand Bag, the Cart Bag, and the new Hybrid Lux Stand Bag (which is one I tested).

“After seeing some of the success by other players in the market at $400-$500 price points, we set out to build high-end bags with superior attributes at more obtainable prices,” Dunlap said. “We’ve produced a variety of different golf bags over the years, but the RevCore line was our first foray into the lux bag segment. I think leveraging our longevity in the golf business and design experience has really helped us produce a solid option against some of the newer brands.”

Suggested retail on the three are $219, and $299, and $249 respectively. By comparison, premium hybrid bags like the Vessel Player V lists at $439, and the Ghost Golf AnyDay is $419. So how does the RevCore Hybrid compare?

Pretty favorably. And here’s why.

First, it looks great. The one I tested is covered with a soft, “deep grey” simulated foam-backed leather, black accents, and oversized black nickel alloy zippers. Everything about its appearance says it should cost more than it does - I'd put it among the best golf bags for looks alone.

The Hybrid is available in two tops, a six-way divider, or a 14-way divider. The one I tested was a six-way with velour dividers, and I found that the clubs went in and out of it easily.

Like the best golf stand bags, it has a lot of storage space – seven external pockets, three of which are zippered, one of which is waterproof and lined with felt. There’s also a lined magnetic rangefinder pocket, which is a super important feature when you carry or walk with a push cart, when it’s most critical to be able to access and replace your distance device quickly during the round.

The RevCore Hybrid bag also has two cooler pockets that drain, which means you can put ice and drinks in it. When you live in a hot climate like I do, that’s another great feature.

There are also two internal pockets, one of which is mesh and the other felt-lined. The latter is a great place to hide your wallet and/or jewelery. A towel clip that works as a bottle opener and velcro glove attachment are also nice touches.

While the bag weighs around seven pounds, it works well as a carry bag as long as you don’t load it down too much. But that’s true with the best lightweight golf bags, if you think about it.

The double strap system was comfortable and balanced the load well, but I would rate the Vessel stand bags as a little more comfortable in that department. If you don’t carry your own clubs, however, the CaddyDaddy comes with an optional single strap, which is probably the way to go when you’re using a powered cart or push cart. Once your bag is mounted, you can take the single strap off and store it in the bag until you’re done playing, which makes for a really clean appearance when using a cart.

There is no cart strap pass-through, which is a feature I’ve come to appreciate on some of the best bags on the market. The cart straps on powered carts didn’t hinder the pockets too much, but on my own push cart, the strap did interfere a little with the upper pockets.

Another nice feature – which you also see in the best Vessel bags like the Player V – is a protective neoprene cart strap sleeve to protect your bag from getting wear marks when using it on a cart.

The bag also comes with a large and effective rain hood, but it does take up a good bit of room if you store it in the bag while playing.

The bottom line is that if you’re looking for a premium bag for under $300, this might be your best option. It looks like a more expensive bag, has lots of features, is well-balanced, and works well as a carry or cart bag.

However, having spent several weeks thoroughly testing HLINC's Full Zip Waterproof Links Golf Jacket before writing this review, I can wholeheartedly tell you it was worth the wait.

As luck would have it, the period in which I tested the Links Golf Jacket coincided with a turn for the worst in terms of the weather. Milder temperatures sunk to figures you might find on Scotland's coast, even during the summer, and the wind picked up to unrelenting speeds for a few days.

One of the very first days I slipped on the Links Golf Jacket, which was engineered specifically for use in some of the harshest conditions you might play golf in, the wind was blowing at up and around 40mph and the added rain showers made it a pretty gnarly experience.

Admittedly, I was somewhat dubious over claims that the eVent fabric was 100% waterproof and windproof. But the difference in feeling between wearing the jacket and not in those conditions was truly night and day.

The newly-created buffer between my body and the elements was genuinely impressive, as far as the wind went, and my clothes underneath were completely dry - proving HLINC's claim that the jacket carries a 20,000/20,000 waterproof and breathability rating.

Having worn the Links Golf Jacket in some of the worst weather you might experience playing golf on the coast, I knew anything else would be a breeze. And that was certainly the case when heading out onto the course in far calmer conditions over the subsequent days and weeks.

The absence of any rain and a drastic reduction in wind speed on the days I'd picked allowed me to concentrate on other areas of the jacket, such as the practicality and suitability in more mild conditions.

As a start, the Links Golf Jacket's breathability was excellent in the crisp morning air and will comfortably protect you until wearing an additional layer is no longer necessary. At that point, you're free to rely on your other layers such as sweaters, hoodies and quarter zips.

From a practical point of view, the clever addition of a back pocket instead of a front was something I never really knew I needed until I had it. Perhaps you just make do with a golf ball and some tees in your pocket while leaning over a putt, but that's not a concern with the Links Golf Jacket as all of that paraphernalia can rest on your lower back instead.

If there was one thing that I would improve about HLINC's full-zip offering, though, it would be a second back pocket. Most clothes have pockets on the front and - as such - that is naturally where your subconscious mind goes when reaching for a tee or ball marker.

Once you've realized that your belongings are on your back, it takes another moment to consider which side the pocket sits. If another pocket is added, that would solve that tiny issue and allow for a little more storage space upon your person.

But, really, I'm picking holes in what is otherwise a fantastic golf jacket. Other plus points included the enhanced back hem which seemed to prevent any bunching when crouching or bending down and the well-sized zip-up chest pocket.

Another aspect of the Links Golf Jacket that I found particularly impressive was how lightweight yet sturdy it feels. You can easily fold it and store inside a golf bag without taking up too much room, but when you have it on it offers excellent protection.

As well as protecting you from the elements sufficiently, the jacket offers a complete freedom of movement while swinging the club. I haven't always found this to be the case with other options, so this was a big tick in favor of HLINC's full-zip jacket.

In terms of aesthetics, I felt the Golf Links Jacket looked incredibly smart and sleek, allowing me to wear it both on and off the course. The mains HLINC logo sits subtly on the back of the neck and is part of a modest design pattern with another smaller logo by your hip. The only slight downside in this area is that the jacket comes exclusively in black for now, although a navy colorway is due to arrive in 2026.

Its price point is far from among the more affordable options, but it is certainly a long way from the most premium-priced golf jackets on the market. As a firm believer in the phrase 'you get what you pay for', I would say investing in a jacket like this one will be an extremely worthwhile decision.

There can't be too many better options out there in terms of the best golf waterproofs, if any at all. Regardless, I would find it hard to believe this specialist option isn't at least firmly in the conversation, if only because it delivers on every promise it makes.

Some golf waterproofs (not the premium kind), can quickly feel like they are being overpowered in the rain, and they start to lose their shape and cling to your body. You get what you pay for - and in the Ping AquaDrive jacket you’re getting a very high-quality waterproof jacket.

I’ve played half a dozen rounds wearing the jacket, with conditions varying from light to moderate rain. Out on the links at Formby Golf Club as well as the exposed fairways up in the hills of the fabulous new Paragraph Golf & Spa Tabori in Georgia, this full zip jacket kept me perfectly dry and comfortable. Because it’s so light, you can add several layers underneath for additional warmth without feeling like your swing is restricted. (Speaking of layers, why not check out our guides on the best golf mid-layers or best golf vests).

In my opinion, minimalist designs are best when it comes to waterproofs. The AquaDrive jacket has two zipped pockets on the side (no unnecessary chest pouch), easy-to-adjust elasticated cuffs, and an adjustable shock cord hem. It's a little awkward to operate, and not very robust, but you soon get the hang of it. Meanwhile, a two-way weather resistant front zip makes it easier to pull the jacket on and off quickly with the minimum of fuss.

Paired with Ping AquaDrive pants, you’re going to look like a pro when it rains. Talking of pros, this is the stylish design that is worn by the brand’s tour professionals. If you tuned into the very wet and windy Alfred Dunhill Links Championship recently, you’ll no doubt have seen a few of these suits.

It’s nice to see one bright color in the range. The winter months are often gray and dull, so the Brilliant Blue/Oxford Blue (pictured) gets my vote. The contrast branding and Ping logos - one on the right shoulder, one on the rear collar, and one SensorDry stamp down by the left pocket - have also been carefully considered. Ping doesn’t really do ‘in your face’. The branding is subtle, although the logos do give the garment that stamp of quality, which golfers will appreciate.

One detail that often gets overlooked is a hanging loop, which this jacket has. It’s a bit of a bugbear of mine. When I come home from golf wet and need to hang something up to dry in the garage, I want to see that loop! Thank you, Ping.

For more info on the best golf rain jackets, or best golf rain pants to keep the weather at bay, have a read of our specific guides we've created from testing.

The new Mustang is one of the best zero-torque putters that isn't a mallet design. Indeed, it sits somewhere between an Anser and a fang shape. Milled from 303 stainless steel, it's got the classic Anser-style shape, with mini wings on each bumper offering a little more stability than the Hellcat ZT, and something visually a little different, too.

Behind the ball, despite it being an Anser-style shape, I found it very easy to line up. A small, white alignment line runs through the rear of the chassis (though not all the way up to the front edge), while a very pronounced leading edge makes it easy to make sure the face is square to target.

I tested the Mustang ZT out at Scottsdale National Golf Club on greens that can only be described as quick. Running at 11.5 on the stimp meter, it was a long way from the fluffy autumnal greens I'm used to here in the UK. The Mustang benefits from PXG's ultra-thin face, measuring at 0.055 inches. This is coupled with the brand's now-signature Pyramid Face Pattern, which is engineered to provide consistent interaction with golf ball dimples and enhance initial ball skid and roll.

This is certainly one of the firmer feeling putters on the market, one that was quite a jump from the Spider Tour X I've been using for the better part of two years now. Compared to that, the Mustang feels a little harsh, but I am comparing it to one of the softest putter inserts on the market here, versus a milled model. If you miss the face's centre, you know about it. For those with a confident, repeatable stroke, this is valuable to help you understand where you went right (or wrong) at the point of contact. For those without that luxury, finding much rhythm with a putter that lets you know when you've messed up can be tough.

During my testing, I holed precisely nothing from distance, but felt bulletproof inside 8-10ft. To me, this is where zero torque putters come into their own. Those who struggle holing important putts from short distances should look to at least try a style of putter like this. I found distance control tough with the firm face, but hopefully I can learn to better myself with the putter from distance - and perhaps I hadn't adjusted all that well to the fast greens at Scottsdale National.

I was custom fit for my Mustang ZT, and there are plenty of ways to help dial this putter in. Whether it's through length, the adjustable weights in the sole or by tweaking lie angle, I'd recommend stopping by for a fitting for this putter to make sure it is just right for you, rather than going stock.

I'd heard about the 'reverse honeymoon' period that some experience when trying a zero-torque putter for the first time. This is the phenomenon whereby you actually get a little worse with your new putter before it gets better, all while you get used to the sensation of zero torque. Normally, this is due to the unique looks of some of the best zero-torque putters, but the design of the Mustang doesn't scream zero torque, despite the 1° of forward press pre-built in. Despite the disguised looks, I suspect, having only used it for three rounds thus far, I am in the reverse honeymoon phase with the Mustang ZT.

If you're an Anser-style or traditional blade fan, and have yet to be won over by the plethora of mallet zero torque putters, the Mustang ZT (which is a more premium offering compared to the Hellcat ZT) should be on your list of putters to try. Don't expect immediate results, but those who persist should reap the rewards from this well-crafted and unique putter design.

Its latest iteration - a 3-Piece Urethane Cover model sold in a 24-pack - promises tour-level materials and performance at an unbeatable value. As a dedicated gear tester, I set out to determine if this golf ball can genuinely compete with some of the game's best golf balls on performance, or if its exceptional price tag hides a critical deficiency.

The incredible price tag is the first thing that hits you: for £34.99/$34.99 for two dozen golf balls, the proposition is nothing short of extraordinary. When premium competitors are nearing and exceeding £50 a dozen, this model offers a significant financial relief. However, a golf ball’s merit needs to be measured from tee to green, not by its barcode, and I needed to know if the value came at the expense of performance.

My initial impression of the feel, which was a little "clicky" in older models, has much improved. The latest version delivers a notably softer impact, though it still has some way to go to match the truly soft, deep sensation of a Titleist Pro V1, for example.

The improvement in feel is most noticeable on the irons and wedges, particularly short chips and pitches around the green. Off the putter face, it felt solid and responsive, a pleasing experience given the price.

My testing and data gathering began indoors using a Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor. While the spin and speed data looked promising, showing nearly identical launch conditions and minimal distance variation compared to the 2025 Titleist Pro V1, I was cautious.

It is essential to remember that a camera-based system like the GC3 only measures the first few feet of flight, projecting the rest through incredibly complex and accurate algorithms. It must be noted, however, that a ball setting off with high levels of spin can experience significant "spin decay" if the dimples and aerodynamics are not as sophisticated as they should be - a critical factor that the initial measurement can easily miss.

Because of this, I decided to take the test outdoors for a true, real-world comparison: a good old-fashioned 'pace-off' against the 2025 Titleist Pro V1. I hit 24 of each ball with both my 7-iron and driver, meticulously numbering each one to ensure I knew which ball I was comparing.

Despite the GC3 reporting only a one-yard difference in carry with my driver, when I went up to collect the balls and pace out the distance, the average difference was nearly 10 yards in favour of the Titleist ball.

It was a similar story with the 7-iron, with a 6.5-yard difference apparent here, despite less than half a yard difference being reported on the launch monitor. This suggests to me that the Kirkland ball may indeed be struggling with spin decay or some aerodynamic inefficiency over the full distance, costing the amateur golfer valuable carry yardage.

A slight lack of control becomes more apparent as you approach the green, where the Kirkland ball certainly fell short of more premium golf balls in terms of spin and performance. It produced a significantly higher ball flight and noticeably less grab on the putting surface, in particular on mid-range pitch shots around the 50-yard mark.

This lack of greenside bite is the most noticeable performance compromise I found throughout testing.

In truth, I would need even more time with the ball over a number of rounds to judge the overall consistency and how it plays in varying conditions. But even after the testing I have done, I can pretty confidently say that the Kirkland is a fairly reliable product, offering decent feel and feedback and a reasonable level of spin and control, albeit at a mildly reduced distance.

I would dispute Costco’s website's claim that these balls are "great for beginners or professionals," as the lack of greenside control would make them stand out like a sore thumb among elite players.

However, I cannot think of a ball that even gets close to representing the same extraordinary value for the beginner or intermediate player. If you're someone who loses a ball or two per round and prioritizes saving money without resorting to a low-quality rock, the Kirkland Signature is unbeatable.

In fact, such is the buzz around the Boudin Noir, I honestly don’t think I have ever been contacted as much on social media, being asked to get hold of a new product and put it through its paces.

Born from a unique background of golf passion and precision yacht design in the Côte d’Azur, this putter is an engineering statement. As an equipment tester, it is incredibly refreshing to test a product that is so different and has been approached from such a unique thought process and angle. So, let’s see if the Boudin Noir can scare some of the best putters in the game…

The Boudin Noir’s technology centers entirely on modularity and player flexibility, a concept that is patent pending.

The putter head, machined from aerospace-grade 6061 aluminium and finished in a sleek anodised matte black, features an interchangeable shaft module system, allowing the golfer to change the entire torque profile of the putter to their stroke preference, switching between toe hang, face balanced, or low torque configurations.

There will be some people out there (I can think of a couple of putter coaches I know for sure) who will argue it is frivolous or unnecessary to have a putter that can be moved into three different torque profiles, claiming players only fit into one specific style. I happen to entirely disagree with that sentiment.

I don't think a required torque profile for a golfer's putting stroke is like someone's DNA or fingerprint; I believe it is far more fluid than that and can alter with a slight technique change or simply organically over time.

I also think it is a fantastic option for players to be able to dip in and out of slightly different torque profiles and even looks, without having to purchase an entirely new putter, and all while maintaining all other variables like grip, length, weight, and overall aesthetic.

Be honest, who among you hasn’t come off a round of golf having holed absolutely nothing and wished you could change things up a little with the putter? With the Boudin Noir, you can do precisely that, and crucially for me, without the added complication of affecting variables such as different lengths, swing weights, total weights, lie angles, and lofts that often occur by switching putters.

Heck, you can even switch from right to left-handed if it’s really drastic!

The process of changing the screws over is, in truth, a touch fiddly, as you need to fully remove them and hold onto them while moving parts about; however, it took even someone like me with clumsy 'sausage fingers' less than two minutes each time. Hardly a big ask for the benefit of three putters in one.

The overall aesthetic is superb, featuring a fully ‘blacked out’ look with the head, shaft, and grip. The head is beautifully finished with soft curves on all the edges, which look fantastic. Due to the flat crown, it sits beautifully flush with the ground, promoting real confidence and stability at address.

The alignment cues are both brilliantly simple and visually effective in equal measure. A white line parallel to the face pops superbly against the all-black finish of the rest of the putter, and there is also a solid flange line forming a T-shape for those who prefer rear alignment.

Due to it being made from the same 6061 aluminium as L.A.B. putters, the basic feel is very similar. However, there is a touch more of a vibration and ringing to the strike of the Boudin Noir, possibly due to the minuscule air gaps that will inevitably be present from the modular design. That is in no way a criticism, I actually really liked the feel, giving the Boudin Noir potentially a touch more life to it at strike than the L.A.B. feel (which I also really like in fairness).

In its 'low torque' setting, as Sausage Golf calls it, it features a two-degree forward shaft lean, and Sausage has cleverly added a small white dot on the base of the grip that needs to line up with the white bar of the leading edge for it to play its true loft and shaft lean.

I have to say, I absolutely love the modular putter concept, and it has been brilliantly executed here. This putter is not just one for the tinkerer or hobbyist; it is absolutely a high-quality putter in its own right, even without factoring in the clever modular design.

The Boudin Noir delivers on looks, performance, stability, and an exceptional feel.

I think and hope that modular design could well be here to stay, giving golfers unprecedented control over their most personal club.

Straight out of the gate, I need to clarify that this is not the device to use if you're primarily a walking golfer. Such is the size of this device, you'll need to be using it either in a ride-on cart - where the strong built-in magnet allows it to sit conveniently on the cart - or by using the accompanying mount for an electric trolley. As a walking golfer, this device is simply too large. It can't fit in a trouser pocket, and you'll do well to find a pocket in your bag to easily store and use it. It's a non-starter here. That being said, the trolley mount I tested it with was highly effective, so trolley golfers will also be able to enjoy this product's benefits.

But The Caddie was never designed with that type of golfer in mind, so with that out of the way, I want to talk about all the reasons why The Caddie might be the right device for you. Firstly, the size is genuinely impressive. It's by far the biggest screen you'll be able to get on a dedicated golf GPS device, and it allows for a vast amount of detail to be shown on the screen.

At the start of each hole, you're shown a 3D flyover on the 8-inch full-colour touchscreen, detailing the exact shape of the hole, any hazards in the way and the exact shape of the green. The touchscreen allows you to scroll, zoom and search yardages to your heart's content and get a full 360-degree view of the hole ahead of you. You can touch any part of the hole to get a yardage to that area (very useful for calculating layups), while the bottom of the screen will show you in large font the distances to the front, middle and back of the green. Another nice feature is that yardages will hover above the front of a hazard like a bunker, which allows you to see the yardage without having to click on it before. The same goes for the back edge and front edge of the green.

I'll be honest, the quality of the graphics was a little disappointing. The textures are quite grainy, especially on the trees, and remind me more of an old Tiger Woods PlayStation 2 game than a modern piece of technology. There was certainly a little lag time in the touchscreen, too, and the 3D tree graphics were often depicting trees that were a lot larger than the trees I could actually see on the golf course.

The detail of what was surrounding the hole was lacklustre too. On the first hole at North Hants golf club - a long par three around 210 yards - a line of fairly dense trees sits around 20 yards over the back of the green. Though the green shape, hazards and yardages were all correct and detailed, the display on the Caddie showed no signs of these trees, thus leaving me without the info on how far over the green would be in trouble. This was one of many instances where the device's detail came into question.

That being said, the amount of information on the screen is impressive, and the ability to touch any part of the hole on such a large screen does allow you to get a clear picture of what is ahead of you and allows you to make better decisions because of it.

My favourite part of The Caddie is its scoring and game tracking features. The Caddie has modes that allow you to keep track of stroke play formats, match play or even a scramble, something I've not tested on any other GPS device of its type. Inputting the handicap index of your playing partners also allows The Caddie to let you know who has shots on which hole, a nice quality of life feature that keeps everyone in the group in the know as to who has shots where.

The game tracking is a nice addition, too. The Caddie prompts you at the end of the hole to input whether you hit the fairway, the green and how many putts you had. It's a fairly quick and easy way to keep track of some topline stats about your game, all of which are saved onto the device. All of this comes with no subscription fee, which also includes any future updates to the software, of which I'm sure there will be plenty over the lifetime of this product.

Though this might look like a delicate piece of technology you wouldn't want to risk breaking in the elements on the golf course, I can confirm this device is more than built to last outside. The case it comes in is incredibly rugged in case of any accidental drops, and it is fully weatherproof, and the screen is easily visible in all light conditions, which is a clever bit of design. The magnet in the back of the device is incredibly strong, and nearly no amount of rough terrain traversed by either your trolley or the ride-on cart will knock it off.

Overall, size really could be the winner here for a certain type of golfer. Though the graphics and the screen lag leave a little to be desired, I've got no doubt future updates will see The Caddie become an even more in-depth GPS device than it already is. The scoring and game tracking features are ideal for group golfers, and anyone who primarily plays golf in a ride-on cart will reap the rewards from this large, bright and intuitive GPS built to help golfers enjoyment of the game.

The Heritage SLs certainly fall into the former of those two camps, taking direct inspiration from the brand’s rich heritage in trainers; that inspiration is clear to see as soon as you take them out of the box.

I got my hands on the navy colourway, and the initial impression was a very good one. The tonal panelling creates a dynamic yet casual silhouette that could just as easily be worn down the pub as it could on the course.

The grey accents and white midsole also offer a nice touch of contrast, making them incredibly easy to pair with any number of trouser or short options.

While looks are important, they undoubtedly play second fiddle to comfort and performance. Thankfully, the Heritage SLs also came up trumps in both categories.

Slipping the shoes on for the first time was a real treat; the trainer-like design performs just like I hoped, providing plenty of cushioning and a good amount of space in the toe box, which I really enjoy as someone with wider feet.

The shoes are kitted out with a Dyna-Soft 10mm drop midsole as well as CUSH+ revolutionary foam, which, despite sounding very much like industry jargon, certainly does a good job of providing a cushioned and responsive ride.

I’ve worn these shoes on multiple occasions and have never experienced any kind of foot fatigue, with a nice touch of bounce received in every stride.

Throughout the swing, the outsole provides a good level of traction for a spikeless sole, and thanks to the fairly wide footprint, stability was never an issue.

While I can’t give all of the credit to the shoes, they were also the pair I was wearing when I got my first-ever hole-in-one, so they will forever hold a special place in my heart.

I’ve only worn these shoes during dry conditions; however, they are built with a waterproof microfiber leather/performance mesh upper, and come with a 1-year waterproof guarantee, so they should hold up nicely throughout the year.

Due to the lack of spikes, I would say they are probably best suited for summer or spring golf, however, a little mud and rain isn’t going to cause you any great issues.

The result, Callaway says, is more distance, easy launch and plenty of forgiveness, especially for developing players who are trying to elevate their game. This was something I, as an inconsistent player, was keen to put to the test.

My first impressions of the Callaway Reva Rise driver were very positive. The pale green leather headcover appealed to my eye and this theme continued once removed. The club isn’t obviously aimed at women based on how it looks - the feminine touches are quite subtle but it undoubtedly looks premium and cutting edge.

The head size is generous but not excessive and the feel is lightweight, which made it instantly feel very easy to swing, something the best drivers for women always offer. There’s a decent amount of loft on show in the playing position, more than what the 10.5° head I had suggested, which boosted my confidence further.

It didn’t take long before I started honing in on the sweetspot when giving this a first hit on the range and the resulting carry distance truly blew me away. I’ve been used to settling for unsuitable men’s drivers in the past and switching into something better tailored to my game made an immediate impact.

The ball speed combined with the launch and height produced some of my best ever drives and the feel only enhanced the experience. It felt lively and robust, masking some pretty poor swings admirably.

I am relatively new to the game so forgiveness was always going to be crucial and the Reva Rise driver delivered. I peppered all parts of the clubface (I wish I could say it was deliberate) over the course of my session to really put the Ai10x Smart Face through its paces and I saw the benefit in the accuracy of the ball flight. Shots didn’t curve off line as much as I was expecting and even some questionable strikes achieved noteworthy carry distance.

With the two loft options, the highly adjustable OptiFit hosel and the array of shaft options across the women’s and men’s matrix, I’m confident this is a driver that can be optimised for almost any female player and really elevates the overall performance package on offer from the previous Callaway Women's Reva driver.

The "SP" on the new wedges stands for Spin Pocket, a new two-piece construction that shifts the center of gravity a little higher in the head to produce a lower, more controlled ball flight while maintaining the high spin that was evident with the original Opus wedges. I took these wedges straight onto the golf course to see if they could be considered some of the best wedges released this year.

From a head shape standpoint, I really like the Opus SP design. I feel as though the wedges could be visually improved if they had a cleaner look on the back, but looks of course are subject to opinion.

The Opus SP wedges are offered in two finishes - brushed chrome and black shadow, the latter was the one I conducted my testing with in a 56° head. Down behind the ball, the shape has been designed with tour-player feedback and is fairly compact, which is exactly why the Opus SP wedges were the fastest tour conversion of any Callaway wedge, meaning that more tour players, such as Xander Schauffele and Jon Rahm, put these wedges in play quicker than any of the previous wedge designs.

These wedges offer progressive shaping in the gap wedge, which creates a seamless transition from your irons to your wedges, making the whole set blend smoothly, creating a more consistent look down behind the ball.

The feel of the Opus SP wedges is where the Spin Pocket technology really shines. On both full shots and delicate chips, the wedges feel responsive, yet firm enough that they offer precise feedback. The ball feels as though it grips tightly on the face through impact, offering high levels of spin and this was evident when I tested it with my Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor.

I put the Opus SP to the test against the original Callaway Opus wedge to determine if there had truly been any significant performance gains. However, it's worth mentioning that when looking at the data above, the original Opus had seen a fair bit of action, and so comparing the data to a wedge that was fresh out of the wrapper has to be taken with a pinch of salt.

On average, I saw my spin sit around 7400rpm, which is a solid amount over a 50-yard pitch shot. When moving into fuller swings, the ball flight stayed a little lower than the previous model, which took some getting used to at first, but once I got comfortable with the window it was coming out in, I gained so much confidence and control.

The main story with these wedges is, of course, the Spin Pocket, but Callaway didn't stop there. The Opus SP wedges feature a new Spin Gen 2.0 face that boasts grooves that are set at a 17° angle and packed tighter together for maximum spin. The face is also cross-hatch lasered under the coating of the wedge to enhance spin on open-faced shots, but also to make the face more durable.

Overall, I found the performance and the aesthetics of the Opus SP wedges rivalled a lot of the wedges I have tested recently, especially those considered the best wedges for chipping. The six different grind options allow golfers to customize their wedge set-up depending on their attack angle and the turf they typically play on, and the two color finishes mean you can keep a traditional look with the chrome or opt for a more stealth-like approach with the black shadow.

The Callaway Opus SP wedges are available worldwide and come to retail for $199/£179 with a slight upcharge for graphite shafts.

One recently came across my desk in the form of the Wosports rangefinder. Type this term into Amazon’s search bar and you’ll be greeted with a host of options with a similar name, which adds to the confusion. The one I tested had the blue/grey color scheme appears to be an Amazon exclusive (it isn't listed on the Wosports website) and promised a 1,200-yard range as well as flag locking vibration and USB-C charging.

With an encouraging suite of features for the modest RRP of $129.99 (if you’re quick you can get it for 50% off at checkout as part of Amazon’s Big Deals Day), I took it to the course to see how it performed.

The Wosports rangefinder clocks in at just 160 grams according to my scales, which is certainly on the lighter end of the spectrum, but it’s a substantial size and has a bumpy texture to it to help maintain your grip when in use, which worked very well in practice. It also comes with a perfectly suitable carry case, carabiner included.

There are three modes accessed via one of two buttons on top. The first appears to show you the degree of elevation change (I’m not sure why that’s useful), the second displays the adjusted distance taking this change in elevation into account (far more useful) and the third is the pin detection mode, where the unit vibrates when the flag is located.

I have to say, I was surprised at how clear the view was in the display and how easily it picked out the flag from the background. Some of the graphics are quite close to the edge of the display but you can still see all the information you need.

I tested the Wosports rangefinder up against my Bushnell Tour V6 Shift, probably one of the very best rangefinders with slope, and the distances I encountered were very comparable up to 300 yards away. The Wosports model was never more that a couple of yards out from what the Bushnell was displaying and often they were nigh-on identical. The Wosports wasn’t as quick as the Bushnell - there was probably half a second delay in the distances appearing, but this didn’t really detract from the experience.

The only real negative I have, and it’s a pretty big one, is that the Slope button on the side of the Wosports rangefinder didn’t appear to do anything. I was able to access slope-adjusted distances regardless of if the green or red indicator was showing on the side of the device. In both settings one of the modes doesn’t factor in slope, so while you can absolutely make this rangefinder legal for competition play, it’s not via the method the manufacturers intended.

While my experience with the Wosports rangefinder hasn’t changed my mind about Bushnell leading the way when it comes to golf rangefinders, it has certainly opening my eyes to the merit of more cost-effective alternatives, especially those sold on Amazon.

There are obvious trade offs in build quality, speed and in this case, button functionality, the latter being a considerable red flag, but for a golfer that just wants accurate distances on a modest budget, the Wosports rangefinder delivered. It's undoubtedly one of the best budget rangefinders on the market.