The Pimento cheese sandwich is synonymous with The Masters, many peoples FAVOURITE golf tournament.

Let’s face it, we all love The Masters don’t we? It often signals the true start to the golf season.

If you are one of the few that have been lucky enough to attend The Masters at Augusta National, you will have no doubt eaten one of their famous ‘Pimento Cheese Sandwiches’.,

Originally created by Nick Rangos from South Carolina, he supplied Augusta with his famous sandwiches for 45 years!

The pimento cheese sandwich – pimientos (peppers), a mix of cheeses, mayonnaise and a few spices on white bread has become almost as iconic as the green jacket!

Have a taste of The Masters at home, with our version of the Perfect Pimento Cheese Sandwich.

Darwin Escapes are proud to welcome Irish professional golfer David Carey as a brand ambassador.

David, from Dublin, had a successful amateur career that included representing Ireland at international level as well as securing the winning point at the Boys Home International in 2013, which was Ireland’s first win for many years.

His first professional win came in 2019 at the Cervino Open in Italy, where he also shot an incredible 57 (-11) in the opening round. This is the lowest round ever recorded in a World Ranking professional event.

He continued this form to win again at stage one of European Tour Q School at Bognogo, and another at a Team Ireland event at the K Club, making it three wins in under 12 months. 2020 was a tough year with many events cancelled due to Covid-19 but in his first event of 2021, at a three round charity pro-am at Quinta Do Lago, David also finished tied 1st after shooting 69-69-64.

Ashley Pheasant, Head of Golf at Darwin Escapes said “We are very excited to welcome David, aka ‘Mr 57’ to Darwin Escapes and support him on his professional golf journey. He is incredibly ambitious, very driven to succeed and a true golfing talent. We are very much looking forward to watching his progress in the coming months”.

In 2021, David hopes to be competing on the Alps Tour and Challenge Tour, as well as aiming to secure a European Tour card for the 2022/23 season. “It’s fantastic to be working with Darwin Escapes. Having the backing of such a supportive company going into the 2021 season is a massive boost. As well as being great people, the direction and ambition they have is hugely impressive and resonates with my own. I’m looking forward to working with the Darwin Escapes team for many years to come.” David commented.

adidas Golf have revealed their new ZG21 golf shoe, created after nearly two years, multiple prototypes, configurations, and infusing their latest technologies to make sure they got everything right.

The latest offering that gives golfers of all skill levels a high-performance spiked shoe that’s lightweight with zero compromises. The ZG21 is the lightest spiked golf shoe adidas have created that features BOOST cushioning. It’s up to 20 percent lighter than comparable spiked models previously in their range.

“ZG21 is truly a breakthrough feat in spiked performance,” said Masun Denison, global footwear director, adidas Golf. “We were able to combine the latest and greatest materials, innovations, and manufacturing processes without sacrificing anything. It changes the game for those who love spiked footwear.”

As well as the fantastic clean, modern design, the ZG21 is packed with the following new technologies:

LIGHTSTRIKE

• A first in golf, this cushioning is 40 percent lighter than any EVA foam in the market while also providing shock absorption and quick recovery, perfect for golf where stability through the swing is critical. It’s been used in other categories like basketball and tennis, and when coupled with our BOOST cushioning, gives players lightweight comfort and stability with every swing and step.

SPRINTSKIN

• A lightweight and waterproof (one-year warranty) four-layer upper that combines innovative textiles and polyurethane films for breakthrough performance.

ULTRA-LIGHT STABILITY FIN

• A new lightweight and durable TPU insert we created in the lateral sidewall that offers increased lateral stability and a locked-in feel throughout the swing.

SWINGPLANE TRACTION

• Inspired by heat-map studies and running from heel to toe, we target the areas and place the maximum amount of traction where it’s needed most.

The new ZG21 outsole features an ultra-thin TPU construction, six strategically placed cleats, and a new crescent moon-shaped secondary lug to optimize grip, support and performance while ultimately reducing weight.

ZG21 will come in four models: men’s laced, men’s and women’s BOA®, and a simplified laced offering for junior golfers. The two BOA models feature the new BOA Fit System, a ‘Y’-strap design that’s a first in the sport and provides an even higher level of performance. The configuration wraps around the foot, creating a secure fit over the instep and provides flexibility and freedom in the toe box. The men’s ZG21 BOA is also the first golf shoe on the market to feature Li2 – a sleek, low-profile dial platform that modulates tension when and where needed with enhanced speed and effortless execution.

All ZG21 models will be available in our pro shops from mid February. If you would like to pre order a pair, please contact the team at The Springs GC or Kilnwick Percy. GC.

TaylorMade Golf have today unveiled their new SIM2 family range of clubs, including Drivers, Fairways, Rescues and Irons.

Building on the success from last yeas SIM range, the SIM2 delivers a new level of forgiveness, speed and distance.

SIM2 DRIVER

With the original SIM Driver, TaylorMade focused on reshaping the driver to deliver speed and aerodynamics at the most critical stage of the swing – those milliseconds right before impact. Embracing the evolution of design, now TaylorMade has reinvented the way drivers are constructed with an increased focus on enhanced forgiveness while maintaining speed and optimal launch conditions.

Tomo Bystedt, TaylorMade’s Senior Director of Product Creation said “Forgiveness equals confidence. In 2020, we built a driver that was aerodynamic, promoted favourable launch properties and had one of the hottest faces in golf. By increasing forgiveness with SIM2, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D, we have truly engineered a driver that has no trade-offs. Golfers can step to the tee box and have the freedom to swing with confidence every time. Knowing they have a driver that checks all the boxes: Forgiveness, speed and distance with a beautifully crafted aesthetic.”

Forged Ring Construction

The SIM2 Drivers feature a new design called Forged Ring Construction. Utilising a lightweight and high strength aluminium that’s precision milled, the adjoining feature unites the critical components of the driver head into a singular force.

Full Carbon Crown and Sole

A new high-strength carbon was developed precisely for the sole and designed for enhanced durability in protection against damage from turf interaction and contact at high speeds. The expanded use of carbon saves a considerable amount of weight that has been redeployed onto the Inertia Generator in the form of a heavy rear weight (16g SIM2, 24g SIM2 Max and 22g SIM2 Max•D). Placing this substantial weight low and back in the club moves the CG projection to centre face, optimises launch conditions and maximises MOI.

Milled Back Face Cup with An Intelligently Optimised Sweet Spot

The milled back face cup is a strong and resilient material to encourage faster ball speeds. Behind the face, internal CNC milling varies face thickness and pinpoints performance where golfers need it the most.

Relying on the data used to develop Twist Face®, the company mapped the most common impact locations among golfers of all skill levels – which revealed a mis-hit pattern that extends from low heel to high toe. The milling process allows the company to precisely tune the thickness of the face to promote peak speed in those areas. This intelligently engineered sweet spot has an oval shape and stretches diagonally from the high toe toward the low heel. Ultimately, it results in a sweet spot that is designed to capture more shots where golfers are more likely to hit it on the face.

Speed Injected Twist Face & Speed Pocket

Speed Injected Twist Face continues with SIM2, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D,  and each driver head is inspected, measured and tuned for maximum speed and to ensure conformity. The patented Thru-Slot Speed Pocket rests on the sole of the driver, maintaining the marquee purpose of protecting ball speed and performance on shots struck low on the face.

There are three new models available.

SIM2

The reconstructed SIM2 delivers high MOI properties with a heavy 16g steel weight positioned on the Inertia Generator. The TPS Front Weight is strategically located behind the face to encourage optimal launch with low spin characteristics, delivering complete performance that is low on spin and high on forgiveness.

SIM2 Max

With an intense focus on speed and forgiveness, the SIM2 Max delivers high MOI properties with a heavy 24g tungsten weight positioned on the Inertia Generator. The TPS Front Weight is strategically located on the sole of the club to encourage the optimal mid-to-high launch with mid-to-low spin properties, delivering complete performance and max forgiveness.

SIM2 Max•D

Traditional draw-bias drivers come with a trade-off, sacrificing forgiveness for a right-to-left ball flight. The all-new SIM2 Max•D features a repositioned Inertia Generator that’s closer to the heel, encouraging a heel CG that’s low and back for more forgiveness – designed to deliver a higher launch with the largest, most forgiving face in the SIM2 line-up. The end result, a draw-biased driver without compromise.

SIM2 Titanium, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D Fairways

SIM2 Titanium, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max•D Fairways

The resurgent momentum of V Steel™ propelled the original SIM fairways to reset industry standards. For 2021, TaylorMade focused on refining that breakthrough technology to drive centre of gravity lower to promote enhanced forgiveness and optimal launch conditions.

Powered by the iconic V Steel design that promotes enhanced turf interaction and playability from various lies, improved weight distribution delivers pinpoint CG projection for optimal MOI and launch properties.

The more compact SIM2 Titanium fairway features a 170cc pear shaped head for a Tour-inspired look at address while still maintain a generous face size – combining properties of playability and forgiveness. It features a lightweight carbon construction with the revolutionary ZATECH Titanium Face and a heavy 80g steel sole weight. The strategically positioned weight creates an ultra-low CG that creates 5% greater MOI than its predecessor.

With progressive face sizes for strategic forgiveness, the SIM2 Max fairway has a larger 190cc footprint and with a face constructed from strong C300 steel. Also featuring the reinvented V Steel for exceptional versatility from all lies, the SIM2 Max has refined weighting designed for forgiveness, higher launch, and peak trajectories.

Using data collected during the development of Twist Face, which shows the correlation between handicap, mis-hit dispersion and the need for draw-bias equipment, the 195cc SIM2 Max•D has been optimised for forgiveness with the largest head and face area in the current family of fairways.

Matching the aesthetics of the SIM2 driver family, the carbon crown and contrasting chalk colour help frame the ball at address and improve alignment.

SIM2 & SIM2 Max Rescues 

The impact of the original SIM Max Rescue was felt at every level of the game, from the amateur ranks to the world’s best. Week in and week out, SIM Max Rescue was played on Tour with approximately a dozen of the breakthrough hybrids in play any given Sunday. It even accounted for wins with current World No. 1 Dustin Johnson winning the 2020 Travelers Championship in record-setting fashion with two SIM Max Rescues in his bag.

Building on that success, TaylorMade has expanded its hybrid offerings in 2021 to include the SIM2 Rescue and SIM2 Max Rescue. Fueled by the Tour pedigree of its predecessor, the SIM2 Rescue was designed with insights from Johnson, Rory McIlroy and more.

It offers a fast and sleek appearance that seamlessly transitions any golf bag from iron to metalwood. A compact players shape provides added versatility for the golfer who wants an iron-like ball flight and workability. A new leading edge design, sole geometry and optimised CG placement maintain the forgiveness of the original SIM Max Rescue – ultimately delivering the distance of a game improvement hybrid without sacrificing precision and control. It features a +/- 1.5° loft sleeve to further dial in performance.

Relying on the V Steel technology that revolutionised hybrid performance, the SIM2 Max Rescue brings Tour-validated results to golfers at every level. A more refined sole geometry redistributes weight for increased forgiveness while maintaining low CG properties.

The ultra-strong C300 Steel face delivers a powerful ball flight and when paired with Twist Face, the corrective face curvature that’s designed to give everyone straighter shots on mis-hits, golfers can expect better distance and accuracy more often.

SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max OS Irons 

In developing this new iron construction, the company charted thousands of shots from players of every skill level – in the process identifying the most tightly clustered impact areas among solid strikes. Leveraging that data, engineers set out to expand the sweet spot to capture more of those shots, effectively pinpointing performance where golfers need it the most.

The strong, lightweight polymer material spanning the entire cavity helps to secure the topline and provides additional rigidity in the upper part of the face. It works in unison with the flexible Thru-Slot Speed Pocket™ to create a larger unsupported area of the face, which translates to improved flexibility engineered for increased ball speeds and distance. That added flexibility made it possible to deliver the larger, more intelligent sweet spot.

Beyond added distance and speed, Cap Back Design helped produce a higher MOI with increased clubhead stability at impact to discourage twisting, which allows the golfer to enjoy solid strikes more often. When paired with the ECHO® Damping System, the multi-faceted design helps to minimise unwanted vibrations that create the harsh feel associated with traditional distance irons. Producing the signature forged-like feel and sound of SIM irons.

Eclipsing the performance of conventional cavity backs, SIM2 Max and SIM2 Max OS provide a pathway to better forgiveness, distance and feel.

Enhancing the ECHO® Damping System – Elevated Feel, Powerful Distance

Implementing Cap Back Design allowed TaylorMade engineers to redesign the ECHO® Damping System – which features a more concentrated HYBRAR material in SIM2 Max and Max OS irons. This super flexible insert stretches from heel to toe and is completely encapsulated. The softer polymer blend utilises multiple contact points across the face to channel away vibrations, further contributing to the forged-like feel while still promoting maximum face flex.

Every Iron Engineered for Accuracy & Forgiveness

The new intelligently designed sweet spot is strategically positioned to capture the most common impact points, delivering explosive ball speeds and consistency where golfers need it the most. While that added forgiveness is fuelled by Cap Back Design, the proven performance of Progressive ICT continues to enhance accuracy throughout the set.

Most game improvement irons have an inherent right-bias, which is why many equipment makers resort to heavy offset to counterbalance the effect. With SIM2 Max and Max OS, however, Progressive ICT gradually shifts the sweet spot toe-ward in long irons to promote a neutral ball flight while also delivering corrective performance on the common right miss.

An array of technologies, such as a fluted hosel, 360° undercut and an ultra-thin face, work in harmony to deliver a low CG that is engineered to produce a high penetrating ball flight.

SIM2 Max OS – Oversized for More Stability

Equipped with the same technologies that power SIM2 Max but bundled into a low CG oversized package, SIM2 Max OS is the longest and most stable iron in the current TaylorMade family. It features a wider sole, stronger lofts and accentuated draw-bias in comparison to SIM2 Max.

The new Taylormade SIM2 range of products will be available at retail from February 19th 2021. To book your custom fitting (dependant on Covid restrictions), please contact the team at The Springs GC or Kilnwick Percy GC.

Callaway Golf have today announced its new family of Epic Drivers and Fairway Woods.

The Epic product line is ‘framing the future of speed’, with some new technologies that are designed to deliver fast ball speeds for every type of player.

Three new driver models are available – Epic Speed, Epic MAX, and Epic MAX LS. At the heart of the new innovation, is Callaway’s new A.I.-designed Jailbreak Speed Frame. Previous Jailbreak architectures stiffened the body in the vertical direction. By applying Artificial Intelligence, this new structure improves stability in the horizontal and torsional direction as well. The result is exceptional ball speeds across the face.

The A.I.-designed Flash Face is specifically engineered to optimise the Jailbreak Speed Frame, promoting fast speeds across a more expansive area. Each face and each head geometry are uniquely enhanced in Epic Speed, and the super strength titanium promotes maximum speed, forgiveness and spin robustness.

Callaway Epic Speed Driver

Epic Speed is the fastest Epic driver ever, and it appeals to a wide range of golfers. The advanced aerodynamic head construction promotes lower drag for higher head speed. The taller ribbon and flatter crown are engineered for a precise and more aerodynamic shape that can help golfers generate more speed from their swing.

Increased forgiveness in Epic Speed comes from an advanced composite design. The proprietary Triaxial carbon covers a larger portion of the crown and toe, leading to weight savings of over 16 grams vs. a titanium crown. Their engineers have redistributed that saved weight to enhance forgiveness versus previous Callaway MAVRIK designs.

Callaway Epic Max Driver

Epic MAX is the most forgiving Epic ever, and it’s a remarkable engineering feat for golfers who want to hit the ball longer and straighter. It’s built on a simple equation: max ball speed (with the new Jailbreak A.I Speed Frame) + maximum forgiveness (with high MOI and adjustable weighting) = the ultimate max driver.

It features a lighter, stronger Triaxial Carbon material that saves over 19 grams of weight vs. titanium. Callaway redistributed that saved weight to promote high launch and more forgiveness. This driver delivers an exceptional combination of a deep CG, draw bias and higher MOI to promote a tighter downrange dispersion that leads to straighter drives. To promote more control, a 17g sliding rear weight provides extensive adjustability to promote the ball flight that golfers want to play. Combined with the OptiFit hosel, the Epic MAX provides up to 20 yards of shot shape correction.

Callaway Epic Max LS Driver

Epic MAX LS is designed for mid-to-low handicap players who want more speed, neutral ball flight and forgiveness in a lower spin, high MOI package. The proprietary Triaxial carbon covers a larger portion of the crown and toe, and this driver delivers an exceptional combination of a deep CG and higher MOI to promote a tighter downrange dispersion. It’s also the most fade capable driver in the Epic family, and Adjustable Perimeter Weighting provides up to 13 yards of shot shape correction to fine tune ball flight.

The Epic Speed and Epic MAX Drivers are available in 9*, 10.5* and 12* lofts, and Epic MAX LS is available in 9* and 10.5* loft options.

Epic Speed and Epic MAX Fairway Woods

Two new fairway wood models are available – Epic Speed and Epic MAX, and their exceptional ball speeds start with the new Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades. Callaway used A.I. to design a completely new Jailbreak system which spreads and angles the Jailbreak blades. Along with stiffening the body, the new design allows the forged face cup to flex efficiently.

Every model and every face in our new fairway woods are uniquely designed using advanced A.I. It’s a proven design that puts an even greater emphasis on centre and off-centre ball speeds.

In Epic Speed, high ball speeds and forgiveness come from the high strength C300 Maraging Steel. It provides outstanding strength and flexibility while the Face Cup provides speed and spin consistency across the face. The forward Centre of Gravity (CG) is combined with a new leading-edge to promote a strong ball flight, outstanding spin robustness and consistent shot shape dispersion.

Epic MAX delivers enhanced forgiveness from an oversized Max shape. The oversized head combines with a shallow face to make these fairways extremely easy to launch. The launch and spin are tunable using 2 & 14g weights. Golfers can use the heavy weight in the rear for more forgiveness or use the heavy weight in the front for lower launch and spin.

The new Callaway Epic Drivers and Fairway Woods will be available at retail from February 18th 2021. To book your fitting (dependant on Covid restrictions), please contact the team at The Springs GC or Kilnwick Percy GC.

WATCH THE VIDEO – We spoke to Callaway Europe Custom Fit Expert Matt Judd to find out more about the new Callaway Epic Driver family.

Look who’s back! Odyssey have today announced their new White Hot OG range of putters for 2021.

White Hot is one of the most iconic, most played, and most decorated putter inserts of all time. This classic name is synonymous with legendary performance and the unique design properties that Tour players and golfers have loved for almost 20 years.

The original formulation has been engineered the into new Odyssey White Hot OG, with some impressive performance. This new lineup combines the benefits of Odyssey’s two-part urethane insert technology with a rich silver PVD finish, and a fine milling on the finishes. It’s available in a premium stepless steel shaft, or the ever popular, major-winning, multi-material Stroke Lab shaft, with technologies that can help improve your stroke.

With the new White Hot OG, you’re getting one of the most renowned putter innovations of all-time in an unbelievable high-performance package.

Features & Benefits

White Hot Insert  – The original White Hot formulation, feel, sound and performance are all back in one exceptional two-part urethane insert. Tour players and golfers alike have been asking Odyssey to re-introduce it for years, and they’ve listened.

Milled Surface Finish – Odyssey engineers have combined a rich silver PVD finish with fine milling on the surfaces. These ultra-premium offerings are unlike anything you’ve ever seen from a White Hot, and the beautiful designs will appeal to golfers who appreciate the look of a milled putter.

High performance shafts with gray DFX Grip – Available in a premium stepless steel shaft or our Tour proven, multi-material Stroke Lab shaft in a new candy apple red. Both of these shaft options are precisely fitted with a gray DFX Rubber Grip for a classic look and feel.

The new White Hot OG are available in the following head shapes: #1, #1WS, 2Ball, #5, #7, Rossie and will be available in our professional shops from the 28th Jan and will have an RRP of £239 Strokelab (£269 2Ball) or Steel: £199 (£219 2Ball)

To book your custom fitting (depending on Covid guidance), please contact our team at Kilnwick Percy GC or The Springs GC.

Callaway Golf have today announced their new family of Apex Irons and Apex Hybrids. These irons provide exceptional forged performance and A.I.-designed ball speed technologies for a wide range of players. The hybrids feature new Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades for fast ball speeds in versatile, high performance offerings.

“Apex is synonymous with legendary performance and we’ve created a truly special offering with our new 2021 lineup,” said Callaway Sr. VP of R&D, Dr. Alan Hocknell. “Now we’ve implemented A.I.-designed ball speeds, enhanced launch characteristics, and reliable forgiveness to advance this iconic name. There’s nothing like our best, and that’s Apex.”

New Apex 21 Irons

Apex is widely recognised for establishing the forged distance category, and the Apex 21 Irons deliver an exceptional level of performance and craftsmanship. They’re the first forged Apex irons with an A.I-designed Flash Face Cup, for high ball speeds and increased spin robustness across the face. Increased forgiveness comes from a massive Tungsten Energy Core, while the 100% forged body and propriety urethane microspheres deliver remarkable sound and feel at impact. Callaway has also enhanced the shaping for even better turf interaction.

Apex DCB Irons

In the game-improvement category, new Apex DCB Irons extend the forged Apex offering to a wider group of golfers than ever before. They combine the look, feel and performance of a forged players club with the forgiveness of a deep cavity back. The deep cavity back design and enhanced sole width promote easy launch and solid turf interaction out of a variety of lies. The irons are engineered with an A.I.-designed Flash Face Cup, up to 50 grams of tungsten per iron for outstanding launch and forgiveness on off-centre hits, and forged feel.

Apex Pro Irons

In the players category, new Apex Pro 21 Irons promote Tour distance and performance for scratch or single-digit handicap golfers. They also utilise an A.I.-designed Flash Face in each iron for high COR’s and fast ball speeds, along with extremely soft feel from an all-new forged 1025 hollow body construction and urethane microspheres. There are up to 90 grams of tungsten in the longer irons, the most ever for any Apex model, to improve launch characteristics while simultaneously improving forgiveness.

Apex Hybrids 

The Apex 21 Hybrids are suited to help a wide range of players. They feature new Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades designed to increase vertical stiffness near the sole of the club, promoting more speed low on the face where players often mishit their hybrids. The blades allow the Face Cup to flex on the crown to create better spin rate consistency, and the bars are spread to enhance torsional stiffness, to provide more forgiveness across the face.

Every model and every face in the Apex Hybrids are uniquely designed using advanced A.I. This proven ball speed technology puts an even greater emphasis on centre and off-centre ball speeds. To create high launch and forgiveness. Callaway has implemented a massive amount of tungsten, and the adjustable hosel helps to optimise loft, trajectory and control.

Apex Pro Hybrids also incorporate Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades and an A.I-designed Flash Face. The Forged 455 steel provides strength and flexibility, while the iron-like design and fixed hosel create a look at address that highly skilled players prefer.

The new irons & hybrids will be available at retail from February 11, 2021. To book your fitting (dependant on Covid restrictions), please contact the team at The Springs GC or Kilnwick Percy GC.

WATCH THE VIDEO – We spoke to Callaway Europe Custom Fit Expert Matt Judd to find out more about the new Apex line of irons.

Today, Ping has revealed its brand new G425 family, as they further advance their commitment to bring golfers to lower scores and more enjoyment on the golf course.

The new Ping G425 family features drivers, fairways, hybrids, irons and a new crossover club.

Message from PING President, John K. Solheim

“We’re very excited to bring PING’s next generation of score-lowering custom fit, custom built equipment to golfers. Our engineering teams have made significant performance improvements in the G425 family, which we are confident will appeal to long-time, loyal PING players, while attracting other golfers looking to play better and enjoy the game more, including those brand new to the game. As is our engineering philosophy, we don’t introduce a new product unless it’s measurably better than its predecessor. The G425 family exceeds that standard in both performance and appearance.”

“The Tour response to the G425 driver has been exceptional. It started with a win its first week on the European Tour in the hands of Tyrrell Hatton at the BMW PGA Championship and has continued with wins around the world ever since. Viktor Hovland claimed the Mayakoba Golf Classic in early December with the G425 LST and one week later the U.S. Women’s Open Champion also relied on the new driver. In all, the G425 driver already has six wins to its name, helping earn titles on all the major tours around the world. The players are instantly attracted to the clean, premium look of the clubs and even more impressed with the performance.”

G425 Driver

In the G425 driver series, the primary model is named Max as it elevates the moment of inertia (MOI) to PING’s highest level in history and provides golfers the most forgiving driver in golf. Joining the G425 Max are the LST (Low Spin Technology) and SFT (Straight Flight Technology) to best match a golfer’s swing and launch conditions.

To achieve the new performance levels in the G425 Max (9º, 10.5º, 12º lofts), PING engineers combined key technologies from the G400 Max and G410 Plus. The resulting increase in MOI in the 460cc head comes mainly from a 26-gram tungsten movable weight, which is made possible by weight savings attributed to advancements in the driver’s dragonfly crown technology. The weight can be positioned at distinctive settings over a smaller area than G410 Plus/LST to help shift the centre of gravity lower and further back, without sacrificing performance elsewhere in the design. The CG-shifting weight can be secured in one of three settings — neutral, draw or fade — to influence forgiveness and shot shape for maximum performance. The average MOI increase is 14% across the three weight positions compared to the G410 Plus, with three combinations of weight position and loft exceeding a combined MOI of 10,000 (gm-cm²).

The LST model (9º, 10.5º lofts) is designed with a pear-shaped head and measures 445cc to deliver spin reductions of approximately 200 rpm compared to the G410 LST and 500-700 rpm versus the G425 Max. The smaller head size of the LST employs a 17-gram CG shifter with three settings (Draw, Neutral, Fade) to fit the launch conditions best suited to the golfer’s swing and desired ball flight.

For golfers who commonly miss their tee shots to the right, the 460cc SFT version (10.5º loft) is engineered with draw bias to help bring shots back on-line and into the fairway. It features a fixed 23-gram tungsten back weight that shifts the CG closer to the heel to promote a right-to-left shot bend of approximately 25 yards compared to the G425 Max model. A lighter swingweight (D1) also helps influence the ball flight correction.

To help contribute to increases in swing speed and ball speed, all three models share proven PING driver innovations, including turbulators for reduced aerodynamic drag and the proprietary T9S+ forged face to accelerate face flexing for more distance. An internal rib structure in the Ti-8-1-1 body improves acoustics for a solid and pleasing sound. Each model also features the lightweight, 8-position hosel for loft (+-1.5º) and lie (up to 3º flatter) adjustments to further dial in ball flight.

G425 Fairway Woods and Hybrids

In the G425 fairway woods and hybrids, two shared PING innovations, known as Facewrap Technology and Spinsistency, combine to deliver more distance and spin predictability, while offering numerous options to ensure proper gapping throughout a golfer’s bag.

With the Facewrap design, a thin, high-strength maraging steel face extends into the crown and sole to provide increased flexing for faster ball speeds that result in greater distance and high launching shots.

To bring more consistent spin performance, the faces of the fairway woods and hybrids are engineered with a complex face curvature that modifies the roll profile, mainly low on the face where the loft decreases approximately 2.5º to normalise spin and increase ball speed for more distance. Both player and PING Man robot testing revealed greatly improved distance results from Spinsistency, specifically low on the face, the most common miss-hit for fairway woods and hybrids.

A tungsten sole weight strategically positioned in each club increases the MOI in the stainless steel heads for added forgiveness. On the crown, a new 3-dot alignment feature provides golfers a visual cue to address the ball to best match their eye.

The fairway woods are offered in Max 3W (14.5º), 5W (17.5º) 7W (20.5º), 9W (23.5º), LST (Low Spin) 3W (14.5º) and SFT (Straight Flight) 3W (16º), 5W (19º) and 7W (22)º options. The hybrids are available in 2 (17º), 3 (19º), 4 (22º), 5 (26º), 6 (30º) and 7 (34º).

Both the fairway woods and hybrids are engineered with the lightweight, 8-position hosel for loft (+-1.5º) and lie (up to 3º flatter) adjustments to further dial in ball flight.

G425 Irons

In a departure from recent iron models, PING’s experts re-engineered the face of the G425 iron by employing a metal-wood-style, variable face thickness (VFT) design. This greatly increases flexing for measurable ball speed gains that launch shots higher and further with the stopping power to hold greens – a rare result with most of today’s distance-minded irons.

In the process of creating the new face design, they developed a more compact head that sets a new standard for forgiveness for an iron its size. While shorter heel-to-toe than the G410 model, it boasts a 3% higher MOI due to mass savings from the new face geometry that have been re-allocated to the toe and hosel weights, which expands the perimeter weighting and greatly tightens dispersion.

Extensive finite element analysis was used to help develop a multi-material cavity badge that covers more of the face to damp undesirable frequencies and ensure a superb feel and pleasing sound.

The G425 irons feature a performance-improving, water-repelling hydropearl chrome finish and are available in 4-9, PW, UW, SW and LW in Standard, Power Spec and Retro Spec lofts. The grooves in the PW, UW, SW and LW are precision-milled to ensure control and touch into and around the green.

G425 Crossover

On the tee or off the ground, the G425 crossover is engineered to bring golfers gap-filling, long-iron-type performance by delivering more distance and green-finding forgiveness. The thinner face and internal geometry deliver the ball speeds to hit high-flying shots that land softly and closer to the hole. Forgiveness is supplied by the toe and hosel weights that expand the perimeter weighting to increase the MOI. It is further distinguished by its functional and resilient stealth hydropearl finish that helps repel moisture and improve performance from all conditions. Available in 2 (18º), 3 (20º) and 4 (22.5º).

Arccos Caddie Smart Grip Programme. 

The Arccos Caddie Smart Grip (Golf Pride Lite 360 Tour Velvet), in one of four sizes (Red -1/32”, Aqua -1/64”, White/Std, and Gold +1/32”), is the standard grip on all G425 clubs. Golfers who purchase a set of six or more G425 irons in one transaction are entitled to eight free Arccos Screw-In sensors and a 90-day free trial of the Arccos Caddie App. Golfers who purchase one or more G425 driver, fairway wood, hybrid, iron (up to five) or Crossover are eligible for 14 free Arccos Screw-In sensors and the 90-day app free trial for a $19.99 shipping and handling fee.

To book your fitting, please contact the professional shop at Kilnwick Percy GC or The Springs GC. 

Cobra Golf have today announced a new line of clubs… the RADSPEED.

The name was inspired by its key, innovative technology, Radial Weighting, with a goal of maximising performance for the full range of golfers through optimised weighting and an array of advanced technologies. The range consists of a new family of RADSPEED Drivers, Fairways and Hybrids as well as RADSPEED Irons.

The design concept originated from a popular formula in engineering called Radius of Gyration, which is the distance from the club’s centre of gravity to each weight or technology location.

The entire RADSPEED range is also equipped with the highly rated COBRA CONNECT, meaning yuo can delve deeper into the analytics of your game.

RADSPEED DRIVERS

“Our new RADSPEED drivers represent a true breakthrough in performance,” said Tom Olsavsky, Vice President of R&D, COBRA Golf. “Our engineers have outdone themselves by pushing the Radius of Gyration to new levels and delivering three distinct drivers aimed at three different types of golfers. With the RADSPEED driver family, COBRA can truly offer optimised performance for everyone from Tour players to weekend warriors and those who need help correcting a slice.” 

The RADSPEED DRIVER is designer for faster swingers who want distance through faster ball speeds, low spin and trajectory control. With a 460cc traditional shape, and forward-biased Radial Weighting to appeal to the better player seeking low spin, low launch and workability. Using a lighter T-Bar Speed Chassis and a thinner Carbon Fiber Wrap Crown, engineers were able to save 13g of weight that they could reposition forward to lower the CG and produce more speed. Two adjustable weights in the front and back allow players to fine-tune their desired launch and spin performance. The new RADSPEED driver also features a CNC Milled Infinity Face, which requires about 25 minutes of milling for every single clubface produced.

The RADSPEED XB is for players who want plenty of speed and distance but value forgiveness.  the RADSPEED XB is the answer. The 460cc clubhead utilizes rear-biased Radial Weighting to deliver the fastest and straightest ball flight of the three models. For golfers that preferred COBRA’s 2020 SPEEDZONE Xtreme driver, the RADSPEED XB delivers even more ball speed and lower spin while maintaining that extreme stability.  It also features a titanium T-Bar Speed Chassis and Thin-Ply Carbon Fiber Crown, CNC Milled Infinity Face and Radial Weighting Technology.   

The RADSPEED XD for those who want distance while reducing their slice or creating a draw. Cobra say it is their longest and fastest draw-biased driver designed to provide maximum distance and slice-fighting power.  This second “Xtreme” model features the same slightly oversized 460cc profile as the XB, but with heel-biased Radial Weighting.

RADSPEED FAIRWAYS & HYBRIDS

As well as the introduction of the RADSPEED drivers, Cobra have also added RADSPEED fairway metals.  Utilizing weight savings from a thinner Carbon Crown design, COBRA engineers were able to free up more discretionary weight to position it forward and increase ball speed.  Using strategic Radial Weighting in each model (RADSPEED, RADSPEED Big Tour & Tour, and RADSPEED Draw), COBRA engineers were able to create three distinct performances.  Each fairway features COBRA’s signature Baffler Hollow Split Rails, which increase flexion on the leading edge by 70% to increase speed while still providing excellent turf interaction.

The RADSPEED hybrids utilise COBRA’s innovative Radial Weighting Technology with the emphasis on extreme front weighting for ultra-low spin, faster ball speed, and increased distance. A forged, high-strength steel face insert, and amd Hollow Split Rails combine to create a lower CG location, higher launch angles, more distance, and enhanced versatility from a variety of lies. The Baffler sole rails are a signature feature of COBRA’s fairways and hybrids, and allow the club to glide effortlessly out of the fairway, tight lies, thick rough and even bunkers. The RADSPEED Hybrids are available in both standard (Gloss Black/Turbo Yellow colorway) and ONE Length (Matte Black/Red/Blue/White) models.

RADSPEED IRONS 

Cobra say the RADSPEED Irons are their “most technologically advanced irons to date”. The RADSPEED Variable and ONE Length Irons feature game-changing innovations including Radial Weighting and debut the first ever 3D printed nylon medallion.

This first ever 3D printed nylon medallion utilises an intricate lattice structure to save weight and fine-tune feel. Upon closer review, golfers may notice the detailed lattice structure provides a window into the cavity and through the medallion.

With a name inspired by its key technology, Radial Weighting, the design of these irons is aimed at maximising performance through the strategic placement of weight relative to the Centre of Gravity (CG) to optimise speed and forgiveness.  COBRA engineers discovered that by positioning more mass low on the heel and toe (the two furthest points from the CG while remaining low in the head), they could lower the CG while dramatically improving the stability of the clubhead. 10g, in the form of a screw-in weight, is positioned in the toe and 3g of mass, is positioned in the heel to create the best combination of low CG, and high MOI for the fast ball speed and high launch. The RADSPEED irons are also avaiable in both Variable and One Length.

All RADSPEED products will be available from January 29, 2021 at our Professional Shops.

Luke Willet – aka ‘The Iron Golfer’ attempted to beat the Speedgolf World Record at The Springs GC in Oxfordshire.

Luke, a PGA professional, has a reputation for undertaking ironman-style challenges with a golfing twist! A successful PGA coach, based at Hampstead Golf Club in north London, Luke has previously attempted to play 252 Open Championship holes during an 804-mile bike journey around Britain and take on the three highest Cumbrian peaks as well as play 54 holes in one day!

Luke has long been a speed golfer, with his previous attempt at the Speedgolf world record (and his personal best) currently at 121 (this is calculated by adding time in minutes plus score).

On Friday 16th October, Luke attempted to break the world record, which is currently held by Christoper Smith and stands at a score of 108.

Watch how Luke got on.