Innovation Leads the Way at the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show

Once again, the PGA Merchandise Show was highlighted by companies who lead their respective segments in technological innovation. Here is a look at some of our favorite products from this year’s show.

Srixon ZX Mk II Drivers Deliver Big Results

When you think Srixon you probably think about their golf balls and irons, and rightfully so. Both are near the top in their categories and have provided consistent results since Srixon came on the golf scene.

With the release of the new Mk II line, Srixon has joined the fray for the top driver on the market. The ZX7 Mk II, ZX5 Mk II, and ZX5 LS Mk II all offer great feel and performance. You just need to find the one that best suits your swing.

What’s New?

The composite crown is gone and has been replaced by titanium.  More on that later. Let’s take a complete look at the construction.

REBOUND FRAME with DUAL FLEX ZONES

Most Drivers have one flex zone. The new Srixon ZX Mk II drivers have two. Think of it as a spring within a spring. The Rebound Frame increases COR across the face for higher ball speeds and increased distance.

All drivers have faces that flex. The Srixon ZX Mk II drivers use Ti51AF Titanium alloy to maximize that flex. The Rebound Frame adds a second flexible zone, which is a ring of thin titanium within the body of the driver. When the two zones flex simultaneously at impact, and snap back into position, the resulting energy transfer creates power – and distance!

STAR FRAME CROWN

The new titanium crown is extremely thin and is supported by a series of ridges and latticework the give it structural integrity. The ultralight design allows for mass to be moved to the optimum location for each driver, resulting in ideal launch and spin numbers.

The ZX7 Mk II offers maximum adjustability, low spin, mid launch, and a fade bias head.

The ZX5 Mk II is designed for maximum forgiveness, with mid spin, high launch, and a straight to draw bias.

The ZX5 Mk II LS is the low spin option, with mid-high launch, and no bias with regard to fade or draw.

Retail Price: $499.99

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Rapsodo Makes a Big Splash

Rapsodo has introduced its new MLM2Pro launch monitor and simulator. Many of us have been waiting patiently for Rapsodo to deliver an Android compatible device.  With the MLM2Pro, they have delivered that and much more!

The original MLM provided launch and distance data and provided a down-the-line video of the swing using an iPhone or iPad.

The MLM2Pro includes two cameras, which record at 240 frames per second. You can pair the unit with a phone or tablet (IOS or Android) to capture multiple swing angles. Even better, spin data can now be captured!

The Rapsodo MLM2Pro can also be paired with numerous golf simulators for game play.

Retail Price: $699.99

An annual subscription fee of $199.99 is required, but the first year is included with the purchase of the unit.

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Make More Putts with Makefield Putters

Drivers and irons have traditionally led the way when it comes to tech in golf equipment. But putter manufacturers have really stepped up their efforts over the last several years. Just look at the PGA Tour, where just a few years ago traditional blade putters were used by the majority of the players. Now mallet putters with higher MOI lead the way.

Makefield Putters are designed with Path of Inertia, which helps guide your stroke and balances the putter face to the path. The result is more center face strikes, less skidding, and better rolls.

Weighting Systems have long been used in drivers as a way to fine-tune the club based on the individual player’s swing. Makefield is integrating that same adjustability into their putters. The Patented Makefield X3 Weight System uses Aluminum, Stainless Steel, and Tungsten to create endless options when it comes to weight customization.

Most putters are made with multiple pieces of cast materials. Makefield putters start as a solid piece of Aircraft Grade Alloy that is then CNC milled and assembled robotically. Each putter is anodized and laser engraved to customer specifications.

Makefield uses what they call Radial Cusp Face Technology (RCFT). The result is face-to-ball contact with minimal friction, which reduces the tendency for the ball to “stick” to the putter face. The result is a roll that skids less and rolls more quickly.

Makefield was named the 2022 Industry Honors Winner for Product Ingenuity-Emerging Companies: Golf Equipment by the International Network of Golf.

Retail Price: $399.00

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Learn to Generate Effortless Power with Lag Shot

Our favorite training aid at this year’s show was the Lag Shot Triple Threat Combo. Lag Shot makes weighted and extremely flexible clubs that help golfers properly load the club, create lag, improve tempo and timing, and hit more powerful shots.

And you aren’t just taking practice swings. The clubs are designed to be hit, producing instant feedback.

Lag Shot training clubs come in 7-irons, drivers, and wedges. The Triple Threat Combo includes one of each, so you can increase distance, accuracy, and perfect your short game.

Lag Shot clubs come in Standard, Ladies, Juniors, as well as XL for the stronger player.

Take your game to the next level with Lag Shot!

Free Shipping is included in the U.S. as well as a 30-day refund guarantee.

Retail Price (Triple Threat Combo): $299.00, visit the website for individual club pricing.

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Ashworth is Back!

Ashworth marks its return to the US Market with a fashionable line full of tech to help keep you playing and feeling great on and off the course. Here’s a look at some of the high-tech fibers and processes that are once again making Ashworth a hit with golfers.

Dry Release is designed to look and feel like cotton, while offering classic style with moisture wicking, UV protection, and four-way stretch for easy movement.

Soft-Tech is a super high-performance poly product, integrating spandex for stretch, and featuring a unique construction to create an extra soft feel.

The Natural Soft-Tech collection is a blend of bamboo and cotton with a touch of spandex. Bamboo is very strong, with natural wicking, UV protection, and anti-microbial qualities.

Pebble Tech is engineered for maximum breathability and a very high level of performance.

Ashworth has reconnected with Fred Couples as brand ambassador. Tom Hoge will be wearing the line on the PGA Tour.

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