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The composite crown is gone and has been replaced by titanium.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
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.
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
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.
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.
RIP Tim Wakefield
Popular knuckleball pitcher Tim Wakefield recently passed away after a battle with cancer. Wakefield pitched in the MLB for 20 seasons, the final 17 for the Boston Red Sox. He was a member of the 2004 and 2007 World Series winning teams and is in Boston Red Sox Hall...
Product Review: MagnetOwl
In the world of golf accessories, the MagnetOwl is a excellent innovation designed to enhance the convenience and performance of golfers across all skill levels. This magnetic golf towel offers a range of features that make it a valuable addition to your golfing...
Product Review: LAB Golf’s Link.1
L.A.B Golf is really good at helping golfers make more putts. They make the best putters on the market. But their putters have been known as much for their unusual looks as they have been for the strokes they save. That challenge has been met with the introduction of...
Cherokee Ridge CC To Host ALFA Insurance Rocket City $10K Pro-Am Scramble
Cherokee Ridge Country Club, one of the premier golf courses in North Alabama presents the ALFA Insurance Rocket City $10K Pro-Am Scramble. The event will be held Saturday September 16th, 2023, and will showcase 30 teams from all over the southeast. Teams will compete...
Exciting Renovations Unveiled at RTJ’s Ross Bridge
In a highly anticipated announcement, Alabama's renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is set to unveil a stunning transformation at RTJ Ross Bridge on October 13, 2023. The extensive renovation project promises an enhanced golfing experience, with a range of...
Cherokee Ridge: A Can’t Miss Golf Experience in North Alabama
Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, Cherokee Ridge Country Club showcases a fantastic layout and terrific playing conditions. Located in Union Grove, AL, Cherokee Ridge is approximately 30 minutes south of Huntsville. The course...
GOLFERS FIND MAGNIFICENT MOUNTAIN GOLF IN NORTH GEORGIA
The best mountain golf in the southern part of the Appalachian Mountains is not restricted to North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The state which is often overlooked is the Peach State, Georgia. Many golfers are pleasantly surprised to discover that three of...
The Club at Diamondhead: 36 Holes of Spectacular Golf on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
The Club at Diamondhead offers 36 holes of spectacular golf on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Take your pick of the Pine or Cardinal courses, or better yet, play them both! Located conveniently between New Orleans and Gulfport/Biloxi at Exit 16 of I-10, Diamondhead is...
Introducing Zerofit Baselayer Technology
It is tough to get excited about playing golf when the thermometer is telling you to stay in your warm, cozy bed. Sure, you could tee it up with four layers and stay relatively warm, but your swing will be restricted from all that clothing. Thanks to the tried and...
PGA Tour Policy Board Member Resigns Citing Concerns About Deal With The PIF
Just over one month ago, the PGA Tour sent shockwaves through the worldwide golf community with the announcement that it would enter into a formal business relationship Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). On Sunday, the tour suffered its first defection...
Indian Pines Golf Course to Reopen in November as Pines Crossing After Renovation
Indian Pines Golf Course is currently undergoing a $5.7 million renovation project and is scheduled to be ready for play this fall. The course will feature a completely new layout, and a new name – Pines Crossing. The course closed last fall to make way for the...
Pursell Farms Founders Pub Offers Amazing Food & Southern Hospitality
The Founders Pub at Pursell Farms is where history and hospitality come together to create a truly unique experience. Located in what was once office space, prior to the construction of the Inn, the Founders Pub honors James T. Pursell, known as Mr. Jimmy, and his...