Equipment news, January 2021

Every equipment announcement we covered this month, newest first.

All the Gear: Our expert’s comprehensive guide to new golf equipment launched in 2021

Not yet tested by NCG
new golf equipment 2021

The beginning of the year is always manic in my little world. So let's use this space as a guide to all the new golf equipment 2021 has to offer. I'll keep it updated as each brand launches gear to the masses in time for the start of the season.

Simply click your preferred brand to see what they have released for 2021...

To see the reviews of all this new gear and more be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and if you have any questions about anything gear related, feel free to drop me a line on Twitter or Instagram.

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New golf equipment 2021: Adidas

The new Adidas ZG21 have to be some of the most good looking shoes in golf so it's great news that these are available in men's, women's, and junior styles.

For those of you who are not into BOA do not fret there is a lace alternative too.

But that's not all, Adidas also have numerous new apparel collections for 2021.

RRP: From £150 More info: Adidas website

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New golf equipment 2021: Ben Hogan

There are two big trends when it comes to irons at the moment, combo sets and all-black finishes. So Ben Hogan have combined the two and are releasing the new Players black combo set for 2021.

The range features Hogan's diamond black metal finish which has become extremely popular due to its durability.

This will be a limited edition run starting with a 22° offering in your choice of either a 4-iron or a hybrid. You can then combo numerous iron offerings to build up your set but whatever you choose they will be built to provide 4° loft gapping throughout.

RRP: From £715 More info: Ben Hogan website

  • REVIEW: Ben Hogan range

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New golf equipment 2021: Callaway

Wondering what new Callaway player Jon Rahm is going to have in play at the top of his bag this season? Well the wait is over as the brand has now revealed their driver and fairway wood ranges for 2021.

They have also released new Apex irons and hybrids which I have to say look divine.

RRP: From £249

Let's not forget those all important new golf balls. We do need them for every shot, after all. Callaway are brightening up the January blues with some seriously bright offerings in this department.

RRP: From £22.99 More info: Callaway website

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New golf equipment 2021: Cleveland

Cleveland have added the new CBX Full-Face to their wedge line-up for 2021. This new offering features grooves across the entire face, hence the name, and is all about giving you maximum short game versatility as well as forgiveness.

Compared to the last CBX offering they have a larger face area. They also have a full high toe profile that is great when you want to open up the face and slide the club under the ball.

If you're after more spin the clubface features rotex face milling, laser milling and tour zip grooves across the entire face so expect some serious stopping power.

A lot of the versatility comes from a C-Shaped sole grind with the heel and toe cambered away so you can manipulate the face and hit a wide variety of shots.

So how do these improve forgiveness? Inside the club head we have an open cavity near the hell and a a solid muscle back on the toe. This means the sweet spot has been relocated directly behind where you strike it which increases forgiveness and well as adding feel.

RRP: £139/149 (steel/graphite) Available: March 20, 2021 Lofts: 56°, 58°, 60° & 64°

Cleveland have also expanded their Frontline putter offering, in fact the 2021 line-up features 6 brand new models.

With a wide array of designs, shapes and shaft bends to choose from Cleveland are hoping to have a model to suit all golfers regardless of their putting style.

The key technology change here is the shift of CG thanks to new Tungsten Forward Weighting. The weights in the putter face have been moved forward towards the ball to help with more consistent distance and start line even on off centre strikes.

“Having weight as close to the face surface as possible while maximising MOI, provides the straightest putts on mishits ever measured. Frontline technology has eliminated the mishits. No matter where you hit on the insert, the ball will go straight and the same distance. This line-up, with additional models and builds, provides all options for players to uniquely align at impact, delivering the face on the target line, while making the sweet spot ridiculously large.” - Joe Miller, European Product Expert.

There is also a new Speed Optimised Face Technology, which aims to even out ball speeds across the face for more consistent distance on every putt. Each model has a unique SOFT face pattern to help control speed and distance loss, especially on off-centre strikes.

RRP: £159/179 (blades/mallets) Available: March 20, 2021 New 2021 Frontline Models: Frontline 2.0 Flow Neck, Frontline 8.0 Slant Neck/Single Bend, Frontline 10.5 Slant Neck/Single Bend, Frontline Elevado Plumber’s Neck.

But that's not where the new putters end as Cleveland have also announced two new putter lines for 2021.

The Huntington Beach Soft Premier putters and the Huntington Beach Soft putters add sixteen new models to Cleveland's putter offering.

Both ranges get the soft part of their name from the Speed Optimised Face Technology which helps with distance control by making putts hit across all parts of the face come off with the same speed.

This is done by having more condensed milling lines on the centre of the face than the edges. The milling is unique on each putter face optimised for that club head style and shape. The milling features a unique diamond pattern to increase friction for a pure roll and soft feel.

The Premier line-up has two grip options. For those of you with an arcing stroke, the Lamkin SINKFIT Skinny Pistol grip, is combined with a toe-down weighting, to help with clubhead rotation.

A larger Lamkin SINKFIT Pistol grip is used in the face-balanced designs to help promote a more straight back and through stroke.

The Huntington Beach Soft collection will also feature two grip options for arching or more straight back and through strokes.

RRP: From £119 Available: March 20, 2021 More info: Cleveland website

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New golf equipment 2021: Cobra

OK, technically these launched in 2020 but these are Cobra's 2021 offerings so you will have to let me off.

The Radspeed line-up is named after its key, innovative technology: new radial weighting. This story carries through the entire range from drivers down to irons.

Oh and that's not all Cobra also added a 3D printed putter to their line-up. Yes you read that right.

You can see reviews of the full Cobra Radspeed range on our YouTube Channel.

RRP: From £189

Cobra have also released new wedges. The King Cobra Wedge with Snakebite Groove Technology. Try saying that 10 times quickly.

So what exactly is Snakebite groove technology? It's a different method of cutting grooves which allows tighter tolerances, maximises groove volume, and makes them sharper. It actually increases the groove depth by 11% and sharpens the edges by 40% - so will add some serious spin to your shots.

Each wedge in your bag is unique so why would the grooves be the same? Cobra use a progressive groove system to optimise the spin for each wedge loft. The 48-54° heads have a traditional groove length which are also narrower and deeper to deliver consistent spin and ball flight on those stronger-lofted wedges that are mainly used with a square or de-lofted face. In comparison, the 56-60° lofts have full-face grooves that are wider and shallower to promote more spin on shots when the club face is open.

The grooves are CNC milled on each wedge to make sure they are precise and consistent for optimal spin and ball flight control.

The new wedges are available in three grind options:

First up, the versatile grind is an all-around grind option best in medium to firm course conditions and features toe, heel, and trailing-edge relief.

Next the classic grind features a progressive sole width from heel to toe, with trailing-edge relief, benefiting neutral to steeper swings and a variety of course conditions.

Finally the widelow grind has a wide, low-bounce sole. It is designed to be especially good out of soft bunkers and turf as it prevents the leading edge from digging in.

You can also benefit from the same spin technologies in the King Cobra One Length wedges. The wedges are all 37.5 inches long to complement the one length irons and promote a repeatable set-up and swing. They come in the versatile grind and feature full face grooves for maximum spin.

Both models come with the Cobra Connect Arccos technology in the Lamkin Crossline grips so you can track your shortage progress.

RRP: £109 Lofts: 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60° (V-Grind); 52°, 56° & 60° (C-Grind); 56°, 58°, 60° (W-Grind); 56° & 60° (One Length V-Grind) Stock shaft: KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 (125g)

More info: Cobra website

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New golf equipment 2021: Ecco

Always one of my favourite releases of the year - and the Ecco Biom H4 do not disappoint.

For my money these are the best looking shoes Ecco have ever brought to the market. The sporty trainer style with the bright pops of colour on the side and the sole make this a very attractive model.

So what's new in this generation of Biom Hybrid?

To be honest there is so much technology in this shoe it is hard to know where to start.

The most obvious thing is the modern new trainer like shape which is possible thanks to the brand new last the shoe was built on. (A last is an object which mimics the shape of a foot which shoes are then built on.)

Talking of shaping, the heel of the shoe is also slightly wider to give you more stability and extended ground contact.

And - perhaps most importantly in terms of performance - is the remodelled sole. It has three key sections for stability and traction, ground penetration, and rotational support. Overall the big focus here is on the mid foot and heel stability.

As with all Ecco shoes the sole is made from fluidform technology allowing it to be built directly onto the upper without any glue or stitching. This helps with cushioning and also makes the shoe more flexible.

You can see we have Ecco's premium yak leather on the upper which is extremely strong and durable. And of course the Gore-Tex technology to make these 100% waterproof.

Another really cool technology is called 'x-tense invisible' which links the sole directly to the laces for more stability.

These are available in both men's and women's and I can't wait to get out on the course with these soon so I can give you my full review.

  • RRP: £170 (men's); £160 (women's)

These beauties are a special edition version of the Ecco S-Three and pay homage to Henrik Stenson's nickname. That ice blue and white sole is a stroke of genius.

When shoes are endorsed by the Iceman himself you know they are going to be good - but I have to say these are super cool. Sorry. I couldn't help myself.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Ecco have also added seven new colourways to the S-Three offering which will be available from spring 2021.

RRP: £180 More info: Ecco website

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New golf equipment 2021: FootJoy

FootJoy's 2021 line-up is so expansive there is an option for everyone. While we can't give you specifics on ALL the new models yet, we can tease you with a few images.

If that's not enough FootJoy for you we have already reviewed the new HyperFlex and Stratos offerings so make sure you give them a read.

RRP: From £129.99 More info: FootJoy website

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New golf equipment 2021: Honma

I was really impressed with Honma's XP-1 offering and now they are back with a new game improvement range. The GS range stands for 'gain speed' and its aimed at golfers with lower swings looking to increase ball speed and distance.

But it's not just about distance they are also designed to be easy-to-square draw-biased offerings to help players struggling with a slice thanks to a extra tungsten in the sole of the clubhead.

All the metalwoods in this range feature a crank shaped slot on the sole which helps maintain that fast ball speed even on off centre strikes.

The irons offer a large sweet spot to give you maximum forgiveness on off centre strikes in fact Honma are saying the MOI has been increased by 243g/cm² compared to the previous XP-1 offering thanks to a 6 gram tungsten weight in the toe of the irons.

The full line-up includes a driver, fairway wood, hybrid and irons and all are available in both men's and women's offerings.

RRP: From £249 More info: Honma website

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New golf equipment 2021: KBS

Ever thought about what shaft you have in your putter? KBS are set to make that change and are introducing the new 1 One step putter shaft for 2021.

The new shaft is 6g heavier than a traditional offering at 130g, it is a single bend straight tip offering and looking to reduce vibration at impact for more accurate and consistent putting.

“On average, around 45% of strokes per round involve your putter, so we wanted to create a shaft with varying putter head weights per stroke that puts more confidence in the hands of those who currently aren’t that confident on the greens,” says Kim Braly, KBS's master shaft engineer.

The shaft is designed to help all levels of golfer from tour pros to high handicappers. A lot of work has been done to create a pure feel so you can repeat a stable smooth putting stroke over and over again.

KBS are saying from their R&D testing they saw a significant increase in putts holed when golfers put this shaft in play.

More info: KBS website

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New golf equipment 2021: Mizuno

Mizuno have unveiled the new ST Series of metalwoods featuring drivers and a fairways.

The new ST Mizuno drivers build on the recent success they have seen out on tour and are influenced but tour player feedback. Most of this was on the sensory side as players just wanted them to sound more 'solid'.

There are two new drivers in the new ST range. First up the ST-Z is the lowest spin offering but also super stable thanks to a big weight in the back the club head.

Then the ST-X is a draw bias offering thanks to an extra heel side sole weight and extra carbon on the toe. Rather unusually for a draw bias product this has a more compact profile.

Mizuno know fairway woods are the least changed clubs in peoples bags so they took inspiration from older models that were popular. This lead to lots of adjustments to the shaping at address such as changing the leading edge and how the club transitions into the hosel.

The result is the new ST-Z fairway wood a low spin high stability model thanks to a lightweight crown and lower centre of gravity.

More info: Mizuno website

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New golf equipment 2021: Nippon

Nippon have unveiled a new limited edition shaft to mark the 10th anniversary of Modus3.

The shaft has been used to claim over 200 championships worldwide, including the 2016 Open Championship and the 2017 Masters.

You can find out more about the history of the N S Pro Modus3 shaft in the video below.

More info: Nippon website

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New golf equipment 2021: Ping

The new Ping G425 range has to be their best looking to date, there is just something about an all-black finish that just makes a golf club extremely appealing.

The new range features three drivers, three fairway woods, new hybrids a crossover and new game improvement irons. So plenty to sink your teeth into.

I'm working currently in the process of reviewing the full line-up so keep your eye on our YouTube channel to find out more.

  • REVIEW: Ping G425 drivers
  • REVIEW: Ping G425 fairway woods

RRP: From £129 More info: Ping website

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New golf equipment 2021: PXG

The new PXG 0211 collection features new drivers, fairways, hybrids and irons at a new lower price point.

PXG have always been known for quality equipment but it is safe to say some of their price tags weren't very kind on your bank account.

Now they're back with more products, technology but rather surprisingly they are cheaper than ever.

A key tech story I love is that the irons use progressive offset to make it easier to square up the face and straighten up your ball flight.

It's safe to say this is a great looking range but the aesthetics are also designed so the club head shaping inspires confidence over the ball.

RRP: From £142 More info: PXG website

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New golf equipment 2021: Shot Scope

Instead of releasing a new product Shot Scope have been hard at work improving their current offering.

Users can now see strokes gained data in the app for different areas of their game. The first update allows players to compare their performance to that of tour golfers.

Over time this will be broken down into more detail so you can compare your performance to that of people in different handicap categories as well as seeing how front and back 9 performance varies and seeing strokes gained data on more aspects of your game.

What I love about this data is it is backdated so you can see your strokes gained for rounds you have already inputted. It is also free to all players who already own a Shot Scope watch so there is no need to update to a new model to get this data.

For those of you already using the app simply head to the performance tab and then select strokes gained to see your data. You get an overview of your results from each year and can also filter out your performance in your last five rounds.

RRP: From £139.99 More info: Shot Scope website

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New golf equipment 2021: Srixon

Srixon's most forgiving irons yet? The new ZX4 irons feature a fully hollow club head to provide Srixon's signature look and feel in a high forgiveness package.

But where does that extra forgiveness come from? The hollow construction helps but this is paired with tungsten in the base of each club and wide soles to bring that centre of gravity low for easy high launching shots.

This technology is paired with a forged face and tour VT sole to help improve impact feel.

RRP: From £899

Srixon have updated their headline balls for 2021 as they bring out the seventh generation of the Z-star.

Reigning Open champion Shane Lowry has put the ball straight in his bag, while Ryan Fox says he’s “played every model of the ball since its inception and this new one’s the best one yet.”

RRP: £39.99

And if bright coloured golf balls are you're thing you're in luck as Srixon unveil their Soft Feel Brite ball for 2021. Available in red, orange and green, you get a highly distinctive and well-made ball that not only lasts the distance but goes the distance too.

RRP: From £25 More info: Srixon website

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New golf equipment 2021: Stewart Golf

Stewart Golf are back for 2021 with some updates to the classic X series allowing them to introduce the new X10. This product started out as the X1 remote in 2003 and has grown and developed through numerous models since most recently the X9 Follow.

The X10 will be available in both remote a follow versions. Each feature the same EcoDrive motor technology that was launched with the Q Follow. This is 40% more efficient than we saw in the previous X9 follow so you can get those extra holes in after lockdown.

The X10 Follow features the seventh iteration of the companies famous follow system. A big upgrade this year is the optimisation of the handset electronics to match the trolley.

Both products are made right here in the UK at the companies ever expanding manufacturing plant.

“As a company lead by engineers, it’s in our DNA to constantly develop and improve our machines. The X Series has been a fixture of our product range since day one and it remains integral to the business.” - David Funnell, Managing Director

I absolutely loved testing out the Q Follow last year so I can’t wait to get my hands on these!

RRP: £1,499

But that's not all that's new this season, Stewart Golf have expanded their 2021 line-up with the addition of the Q Remote.

I love that distinctive texture on the main body of the trolley. This is actually a microcellular composite chassis which helps deliver an extremely strong yet sleek design.

The Q Remote has many of the same features we see in the Q Follow but comes in at a significantly lower price point.

To say how much tech is in this trolley it is seriously compact. In fact it folds down small enough to be lifted one-handed. It is designed to stand both vertically and horizontally, making it very practical for transporting and storing.

One of my favourite features of the Q Follow is the free smartphone app that let's you see how much battery life you have left. It is especially handy if you've forgotten to charge your battery and want to know how much juice is left. Again this is available in the Q remote which comes with 18 or 36 hole battery options. Both are plug and play keeping you wire free.

When it comes to the remote, Stewart Golf's bluetooth system allows you a range of up to 50 metres, as well as three cruise control speeds. The trolley is super stable on sloping terrains thanks to an ultra low centre of gravity and a rear stabiliser.

The trolley also features a scorecard holder, soft- touch silicone handle and bag strap, handset storage, anti-twist locking bag key, four accessory points, quick release wheels, and an umbrella holder mount as standard.

As with all the company’s trolleys, every one is designed, engineered, and built by hand in Gloucestershire.

RRP: £999 More info: Stewart Golf website

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New golf equipment 2021: TaylorMade

SIM is back for 2021 - and it's the same, but different. We keep the inertia generator shaping of last year but have a whole new construction story to help you gain forgiveness and speed.

I think these take the crown - pun intended - for the best looking new drivers of 2021. There is something extremely satisfying about the carbon curves on the sole, and what’s not to love about that electric blue and yellow combo?

But that's not all that's new in this range we also have three new fairway woods, two hybrids, some game improvement irons and super game improvement irons.

  • WANT MORE? TaylorMade SIM2 driver review

RRP: From £229

As for the P790 irons, they've made a comeback but this time in stealth mode as TaylorMade add a bold black PVD finish.

I can't really get over just how good these look. They will also pair great with the black Milled Grind 2.0 wedges.

The P790 Black have the same hollow body construction, SpeedFoam and Thru-Slot Speed Pocket as the original.

RRP: £1,399

More info: TaylorMade website

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New golf equipment 2021: Titleist

Vokey SM8 is back and updated for 2021 thanks to a new Slate Blue finish. Bob Vokey believes players have to have confidence in their wedges at address. This new finish gives players another visual option to choose from on top of the existing tour chrome, brushed steel, jet black and raw colourways.

The new deep rich slate blue is applied like a traditional PVD finish and is extremely durable.

“Very often, wedge finishes can be beautiful, but they won’t last,” said Vokey. “At the same time, the most durable finishes often aren’t stunning. Slate Blue combines the two. Not only will golfers love their wedge when they see it in the shop, the finish will last through the course of normal play.”

The new finish will be available in all 23 loft, bounce and grind options for left and right handers. However there is limited availability so get your hands on these while you can!

Available: March 19, 2021 RRP: £179

You can't start a new season without new golf balls and the most famous of all is back and better than ever.

The new Pro V1 and Pro V1x have seen some big changes this time around including the first tweaks to the dimple patterns in over 10 years.

Tour stars are even going as far as calling this 'the perfect golf ball' so I can't wait to get out on the course with this post lockdown.

RRP: £50

Titleist also have new drivers out, these were released at the back end of 2020 and are proving extremely popular out on tour already.

RRP: From £139.99 More info: Titleist website

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New golf equipment 2021: Wilson

Wilson have unveiled the new D9 line-up, a full range of clubs designed to help you hit the ball further.

This range is aimed at mid to high handicappers but I have to say I was really impressed with the performance when I got these on the Foresight GC2 HMT for some testing, make sure you watch the full review on the NCG YouTube channel.

RRP: From £159 More info: Wilson website

But that's not all. Wilson have also expanded their Staff Model wedge range by adding the new Tour Grind sole wedge.

This is designed specifically for golfers who want more precision in their short games, think extra spin, versatility and soft touch around the greens.

Wilson have worked with their tour players to create a club which can really be opened up so you can hit a wider variety of shots around the green. It also works really well on tighter lies or in firmer conditions.

The wedges are made from soft-forged 8620 carbon Steel for increased feel and soft touch around the greens. The club faces are precision milled and feature machine-engraved score lines for maximum spin and control.

The Tour grind sole model wedges are an addition to the Wilson Staff Model wedge line-up which also features the Staff Model and Hi-Toe offerings.

RRP: From £109 Lofts: 56°, 58° & 60° More info: Wilson website

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New golf equipment 2021: Zoom

Zoom are back for 2021 with an all new rangefinder, the Zoom Focus Tour.

Aesthetically we see quite a big difference from the Focus X thanks to the addition of a hybrid metal design. This was influenced by the timeless design of vintage cameras.

It has an 800 metre range, provides 6 times magnification and is accurate to half a metre.

The laser features an integrated slope function which works out how much the elevation is affecting the distance your shot will play and recalculates the yardage accordingly. This function can be switched on and off via a button on the side of the device so you can still use it in tournament play.

Numerous modes such as flagpole scanning and continuous measurement mode help you to pick up your target with ease. The unit also vibrates to confirm when you have hit the target.

RRP: £299.99

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2019 Oman Open leaderboard
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Has the PGA Championship's move to May worked?
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‘You have officially built the perfect golf ball’: Titleist’s 2021 Pro V1 and Pro V1x launch to star approval

Not yet tested by NCG
Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x

Has it really been two years since the last Pro V1 and Pro V1x upgrade?

Each year Titleist hold round-table discussions with their PGA Tour staffers and their research and development team to see how they can continue to make Pro V1 and Pro V1x better.

Greg Chalmers said he "would love a ball that flies like Pro V1x and feels like a Pro V1", while Justin Thomas and Adam Scott said the spin rate "could be higher" around the green. Charley Hoffman added that "people need to understand that spin is their friend".

So the response this time was pretty unanimous, players wanted a higher ball flight, more greenside control, and a softer feel.

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: So what did Titleist come back with? Let's take a closer look at the 2021 iteration of Pro V1 and Pro V1x...

2021 Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x: The line-up

First things first - do you know which model you should have in play?

The Titleist Pro V1 is the most common model among club golfers. It has a slightly lower and more penetrating ball flight combined with that soft feel everyone at our level craves.

The Titleist Pro V1x, meanwhile, flies higher and provides more spin than the Pro V1. It also feels slightly firmer. At tour level, there's a pretty even split between the two models.

2021 Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x: The technology

Let's work from the outside in and the big news is the the dimple pattern has been changed for the first time in 10 years.

There are actually a different amount of dimples on the Pro V1 and Pro V1x to achieve the ball flight required for each. Don't worry, I'm not going to make you count - it's 388 on the Pro V1 and 348 on the Pro V1x.

And as requested by the stars, the new cover is the softest in Pro V1 history. This is to give you more spin around the greens.

That layer between the external cover and the internal core is a casing layer. It is made from a new ionomer which flexes more to increase ball speed and lower spin on longer shots. You know what that means - more distance.

Finally, we have a reformulated core. This is one solid piece in the Pro V1 and a dual core in the Pro V1x - as you can see in the illustration above. Both are designed to provide more distance than in previous iterations.

So what are the PGA Tour's finest saying?

In testing, Chalmers said "If it performs in tournament conditions like today, then you guys have officially built the perfect golf ball - long, great flight, better feel on all shots but particularly around the green. It stays on the face longer and feels so good. It spins way more on chipping. Can I switch to that ball this week?"

Cameron Smith added: “When I first tested it, it was a bit hotter off the driver, which was great. The ball flight and windows were great, but the biggest thing that stuck out was the control coming out of the rough and around the greens. I can control my shots – especially those difficult, soft shots – so much better.”

2021 Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x: Anything else?

I know what you're thinking - Titleist could distribute Pro V1s in a brown paper bag and they would still sell millions.

But the packaging process is far more complex than you might think, all to make sure it's instantly recognisable and stands out in your club's pro shop.

Here's what they have come up with this time around...

Pretty snazzy, I'm sure you'll agree.

As you can see, the ball will also be available in traditional white as well as what Titleist call "optic yellow".

Right that's all for now. Keep your eyes on NationalClubGolfer.com and our YouTube channel for a full review coming soon - once lockdown, and the weather, ease so I can test out that greenside spin.

Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x: The details

Available: February 5, 2021 RRP: £50 per dozen More info: Titleist website

If you're after more equipment content, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and if you have any questions about anything gear related, feel free to drop me a line on Twitter or Instagram.

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A golf shoe built from the ground up: FootJoy redefines HyperFlex range

Not yet tested by NCG
FootJoy Hyperflex

If there's one thing I can never get enough of, it's new shoes. I particularly like shoes that turn heads - and that's exactly what the FootJoy HyperFlex does.

These are the sportiest model of the 2021 FootJoy family so I've roped in Alex Perry - NCG's self-appointed sneaker freak - to say a few words.

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: FootJoy HyperFlex: First impressions

"When I pulled these out of the box it was the first time I was seeing them in any form," Alex explains. "Wow. That's an eye-catcher! In the HyperFlex, FootJoy have found a design that really appeals to the golfer who prefers a sportier shoe.

"Secondly, they look phenomenally comfortable. And once they were on my feet, they did not disappoint.

"Thirdly, I was surprised when I turned them over and saw they were spikes. You just expect a shoe that looks like this to be spikeless.

"But this isn't just about how good they look. The Hyperflex have been built from scratch and the technology is very impressive."

Speaking of which...

FootJoy HyperFlex: The technology

The key new technology is very clear to see on the outside of the shoe in the form of the all new "wrapid" closure system, featuring a new Boa fit.

This is to provide a tighter precision fit without adding pressure on the top of the foot - but it also really adds to the aesthetics of the shoe.

This whole shoe has an athletic style and this is by no mistake. It is shaped with a slightly narrower heel and full rounded toe to give it a more sporty appeal.

They feature a new outsole called 'Optiflex' - grooves that flex with the movement of your foot to ensure everything stays where it should throughout the swing as well as added comfort.

Talking of comfort there is also a layer of stratofoam cushioning to absorb shock and give maximum energy return. And that red section on the heel? That's an extra moulded fitbed for further comfort and control.

Finally, great news for everyone living in the UK - the Hyperflex are waterproof and come with a one-year waterproof warranty as standard.

FootJoy HyperFlex: NCG verdict

Back to Alex...

"The third lockdown in England has put a temporary delay to me testing these with a club in my hand - but I have been wearing them to walk in. (If you're reading Boris, don't worry it's only once a day.)

"I'm sticking my neck out here, but these are the most comfortable FootJoy shoes I've ever had on my feet. That little 'sock' around the ankle is as dreamy as it looks.

"I know I'm prone to gushing when it comes to trainers, but I'm psyched to get these out on the course and see how all that new technology performs under the pressure that is my clunky swing.

"Be sure to check back in for an update."

FootJoy HyperFlex: The details

Available: February 1, 2021

RRP: £129.99; £149.99 (BOA)

More info: FootJoy website

If you're after more equipment content, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and if you have any questions about anything gear related, feel free to drop me a line on Twitter or Instagram.

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What’s in Kevin Na’s winning bag?

Not yet tested by NCG
Kevin Na WITB 2019

Na has been a Callaway Tour Staff player since the start of 2019. His equipment set-up hasn't change all that much since his fourth PGA Tour victory at the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open back in 2019.

We take a look in the Korean's golf bag.

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: What's in Na's bag?

Kevin Na had the Callaway GBB Epic driver and the matching 3-wood in his bag.

He has a PXG 0317 X Gen 2 hybrid in his bag. Na then chooses to carry a driving iron in the Callaway Rogue Pro model but then switches to the Callaway Apex Pro 16 throughout the rest of his iron set-up.

In his wedge set-up Na chooses to game the Callaway Mack Daddy 4 Chrome wedges in 50 and 54 degrees of loft. He also carries a Titleist Vokey Design SM7 wedge in 60 degrees of loft.

Na's putting was sublime all week using an Odyssey Toulon Madison. Interestingly he changed the shaft of his putter from the regular steel shaft to a super stiff graphite shaft ahead of this weeks event where he made over 558feet off putts, the most ever recorded on the PGA Tour.

Na also plays with the Titleist Pro V1x golf ball.

Kevin Na WITB 2021

Driver: Callaway GBB Epic, (9°, Graphite Design Tour AD GP 6 TX shaft)

Fairway wood: Callaway Epic Flash Sub Zero, (13.5° & 18°, Mitsubishi Diamana BF 70 TX shaft)

Hybrid: PXG 0317 X Gen 2, (19°, Graphite Design Tour AD DI 95X shaft)

Driving iron: Callaway Rogue Pro, (24°, True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shaft)

Irons: Callaway Apex Pro 16, (5-PW, True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts)

Wedges: Callaway Mack Daddy 4 Chrome, (54°) and Titleist Vokey Design SM8 Raw, (60°, True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts)

Putter: Odyssey Toulon Madison (LA Golf Shafts Ozik TP graphite shaft)

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x

Shoes: FootJoy Pro/SL

Kevin Na WITB 2019

Driver: Callaway Epic Flash Sub Zero, (9°), Graphite Design Tour AD GP 6 TX

Fairway wood: Callaway Epic Flash Sub Zero, (13.5°), Mitsubishi Diamana BF 70 TX

Hybrid: PXG 0317 X Gen 2, (19°), Graphite Design Tour AD DI 95X

Driving iron: Callaway Rogue Pro, (24°), True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400

Irons: Callaway Apex Pro 16, True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400

Wedges: Callaway Mack Daddy 4 Chrome, (50° & 54°) and Titleist Vokey Design 2018 Tour, (60°), Dynamic Gold S400

Putter: Odyssey Toulon Madison, LA Golf Shafts Ozik TP graphite

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x

Shoes: FootJoy Pro/SL

Kevin Na WITB 2018

Driver: Callaway GBB Epic (9˚, Graphite Design Tour AD shaft)

3-wood: TaylorMade M3, (15˚)

5-wood: Titleist 915F, (18˚)

Irons: Titleist TMB (4), Titleist 718 AP2 (5-PW)

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM7 (54˚F), Vokey 2018 Tour Proto (60˚K)

Putter: Scotty Cameron Futura T5 MB

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x

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CallawayBallsDriversFairway woodsIronsPuttersWedges

Advertisement

Now it’s Epic: Callaway launch new drivers and fairway woods

Not yet tested by NCG
Callaway Epic Drivers and Fairway Woods

Wondering what new Callaway player Jon Rahm is going to have in play at the top of his bag this season? Well the wait is over as the brand has now revealed their driver and fairway wood ranges for 2021.

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: Callaway Epic drivers and fairway woods: First impressions

The Mavrik topped our rundown of the best drivers of 2020, so I was eager to see where Callaway were going to go in 2021. As soon as I got the Epic in my hands, I was right to be excited.

Let's take a closer look at what's on offer...

Callaway Epic drivers and fairway woods: The line-up

There are three new models in the driver range...

Callaway Epic Speed: Callaway's fastest driver to date, the Epic Speed has a distinctive cyclone shaping to reduce drag and increase clubhead speed.

Callaway Epic Max: Callaway's most forgiving driver to date, the Epic Max has the lightest crown so weight can be redistributed to deliver a low centre of gravity and high MOI for maximum forgiveness. It also delivers a slightly draw bias flight.

Callaway Epic Max LS: For mid- to low-handicap players who want more speed, a neutral ball flight, and forgiveness in a low spin head. It is also the most fade-capable driver in the range. You can also add 14 yards of shot shape correction thanks to the adjustable perimeter weighting.

As for the fairway woods, there are two models in the range...

Callaway Epic Speed: After a fast fairway wood with a penetrating flight? This model features a forward centre of gravity to give a strong ball flight and long carry distances.

Callaway Epic Max: Want a fairway wood that is easier to launch? The Max has an oversized head, low leading edge, and shallow face making it easy to flight.

Callaway Epic drivers and fairway woods: The technology

Both the drivers and fairway woods feature a new updated Jailbreak structure called Jailbreak AI Speed Frame.

Callaway have again turned to their super computer to develop this.

Although the structures look different they both add stiffness across the face vertically, horizontally, and torsionally. The gives you more ball speed across the whole clubface.

Each model has a specifically designed club face which promotes the maximum speed, forgiveness, and spin robustness require for that club.

In the drivers the crown is made up of a light carbon which saves 16 grams compared to a traditional titanium crown. This weight can be redistributed to add even more forgiveness than we saw in last year's Mavrik.

There is also an extra bit of this carbon on the toe which adds draw bias while saving weight to promote a powerful shot shape.

The Max and Max LS driver offerings feature sliding rear weights giving some serious adjustability when paired with the OptiFit hosel. In fact you can change your shot shape by up to 20 yards in this range.

Callaway Epic drivers and fairway woods: The details

Available: February 18, 2021

RRP: £499 (drivers); £299 (fairway woods)

Stock shafts: Mitsubishi MMT (Speed & Max LS); Project X Cypher, Project X Hzrdus Smoke IM10 (Speed & Max)

Driver Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, 12° (Speed & Max); 9°, 10.5° (Max LS)

Fairway Lofts: 13.5°, 15°, 16°, 18°, 21° (Speed); 13.5°, 15°, 18°, 20°, 21°, 23°, 25° (Max)

Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet Align Black

More info: Callaway website

If you're after more equipment content, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and if you have any questions about anything gear related, feel free to drop me a line on Twitter or Instagram.

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Odyssey’s White Hot putters are back with a modern twist on a classic

Not yet tested by NCG
Odyssey White Hot OG Putters

Odyssey White Hot putters are back for 2021 - and nothing's really changed. Yes you read that right.

OK, so technically it is only the face insert that is the same and there is method behind the madness.

Many players on tour were still requesting putters with a White Hot insert in. So Odyssey thought it was time to give it a new lease of life - only this time combining it with some of their new technologies.

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: Odyssey White Hot putters: First impressions

Odyssey really have done a great job here of giving a classic a fresh makeover. Personally I love the touch of red from the updated stroke lab shaft as it really gives the whole look a modern twist.

There are six models available in this range. Two blades, the #1 and #1WS, and four mallets, the #5, #7, 2-Ball and Rossie.

Odyssey White Hot putters: The technology

These putters feature the same original White Hot formulation which is a two-part urethane insert - the same material used on the cover of your golf ball.

The finish is a new silver coating with fine milling on the surface.

They feature the brand new Candy Apple Red Stroke Lab shaft. But you can opt to have a Stepless steel shaft instead.

I have got a number 7 model to test out and I can't wait to get out on the course with it, so keep your eyes out for that review coming soon.

In the meantime here's the skinny...

Odyssey White Hot putters: The details

Available: February 28, 2021

RRP: Stroke lab: £239/£269 (2Ball); Steel: £199/£219 (2Ball)

Head shapes: #1, #1WS, 2Ball, #5, #7, Rossie

Shafts: Stroke lab Candy Apple Red or Stepless steel

Grips: Grey DFX Rubber or Odyssey Oversized

More information: Callaway website

If you're after more equipment content, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and if you have any questions about anything gear related, feel free to drop me a line on Twitter or Instagram.

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Rahm’s new irons? Callaway reveal updated Apex range

Not yet tested by NCG
Callaway Apex irons and hybrids

With World No 2 Jon Rahm on board, the question now is which of the new Callaway Apex range will he put in his bag? Let's take a closer look at what's on offer...

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: Callaway Apex irons and hybrids: First impressions

They've always been great looking clubs and this year's offering look to be their best yet. The MB irons, in particular, had me swooning during the unboxing and, as an Apex Pro player, I am a huge fan of the updated look.

As for the hybrids, I'm not usually one for a squarer iron-like hybrid - but I think that might be about to change.

Right, shall we get under the bonnet?

There are five new irons in the Apex 21 iron line-up this year - all of which are designed to deliver forged performance.

Although each model varies in terms of performance characteristics, there are a few shared technologies across the range.

The MB irons aside, they all feature an AI-designed flash face cup. Each iron face has been specifically designed by Callaway's super computer to provide high ball speeds and the spin robustness needed for that club.

Callaway Apex MB irons

These are designed for the best players in the game and we're expecting to see these in Jon Rahm's bag. So while we may all drool over the pictures, realistically these aren't going to work for most of us.

They have a classic tour shaping with a compact blade length, refined sole, and thin top line. The top of the 4-iron is so slim it's scary.

The clubface features what Callaway are calling 'precision grooves' designed for control and consistent spin. They also stand out off the face to help reduce fliers from the rough continuing that control story.

Finally the most obvious new tech is that massive new weight in the back of the clubhead. Believe it or not this allows Callaway to dial in the swing weight of the club without affecting the centre of gravity. Pretty neat right? Pretty is probably the right way to describe this club too.

Callaway Apex TCB irons

Again this is specifically design for tour players and elite golfers and we see pretty traditional specs in terms of lofts, bounces, and blade lengths suitable for those stronger high swing speed players.

These have a similar footprint to the previous X Forged 18 offering but now have a hollow body construction, meaning it isn't a solid metal club head there is a open gap in the middle. It features a tour-tuned face plate on the back and tungsten weighting to maximise performance.

Callaway Apex Pro irons

Again we see these out on tour a lot but these feature an added level of forgiveness that means more of us mere mortals can get them out in play.

This is thanks to a huge tungsten "energy core" - I'm sure they name these things to keep us on our toes - which is a 90-gram plate which sits inside the middle hollow section of the club. This is the largest amount of tungsten per iron ever in an Apex club which is pretty cool.

Why do we want this? More weight lower makes these easier to launch and adds forgiveness too. Win win.

Although this has a hollow club head construction it is still a forged head which combined with Callaway's urethane microspheres gives you that lovely sound and feel at impact.

Urethane microspheres? This is a piece of urethane with 500,000 minuscule hollow spheres inside it. These are positioned so they are touching the back of the club face. This compressed during impact and absorbs any unwanted vibrations to improve the impact feel for you. And it does all that without affecting your ball speed. Pretty cool, right?

After using the Apex Pro last season I am really excited to test these out.

Callaway Apex irons

Here we have the forged distance category and a more mass market club.

These feature five times the amount of tungsten we saw in the previous iteration so expect to see some serious forgiveness on those off centre strikes.

Although you're getting more distance in this model you are still not losing out on feel. The body of this iron is 100% forged and again we have Callaway's urethane microspheres. These combined with the new shaping helps to enhance feel.

Callaway Apex DCB irons

The new DCB has been added to the Apex line up to give golfers the opportunity to play a deep cavity back iron in a forged players' club shape.

This is the most forgiving Callaway Apex iron ever and feature 50 grams of tungsten energy core per club.

This allows Callaway to very precisely control where the centre of gravity is in each individual iron to get the correct launch and more forgiveness.

Even though this is a game improvement offering it is still forged from carbon steel with addition urethane microspheres to deliver great sound and feel.

Callaway Apex Pro hybrids

Aimed at pros and low handicap golfers, these feature a fixed hosel and squarer iron line look at address as typically this is what pros and better players prefer to see over the ball.

Callaway Apex 21 hybrid

The Apex 21 is then designed to be more of a players' distance offering that would suit a wider variety of handicaps and golfers. This is thanks to new ball speed technologies and some game improvement features, but all packaged in a smaller players shape.

These hybrids are all about providing high launch with forgiveness thanks to a rather large tungsten weight in each club head. This moves the centre of gravity lower to give you that nice high launch you desire.

They also have an adjustable hosel so a club fitter can dial in the exact loft and trajectory you want for maximum versatility.

So what's new with the tech?

Jailbreak is again a key story here. This technology has been around for quite a few years now but it has been updated for 2021 with the help of Callaway's super computers.

So how is it different? New 'velocity blades' have been added onto the Jailbreak structure. This increases the vertical stiffness of the club especially near the sole. This provides more ball speeds on those shots hit low off the face.

They also allow the face, which wraps over onto the crown, the ability to flex and produce more consistent spin numbers. Finally they add forgiveness as the clubface doesn't twist open or closed as much on off-centre strikes.

The hybrids are available in 19°, 21°, 24° and 27°.

If you've made it this far, well done. Here's what you need to know...

The details

Available: February 11, 2021

RRP: £249 (hybrids); £1,089 (irons, steel); £1,399 (irons, graphite)

Hybrid stock shafts: UST Recoil Dart 75g (Apex 21); Mitsubishi MMT 70g (Apex Pro)

Iron stock shafts: Custom only (Apex MB, Apex TCB); True Temper Elevate ETS, Mitsubishi MMT (Apex Pro); True Temper Elevate ETS, UST Recoil Dart (Apex, Apex DCB)

Grips: Golf Pride Z Grip Soft (Apex hybrid); Golf Pride Z Grip (Apex Pro hybrid, Apex Pro irons)

More information: Callaway website

If you're after more equipment content, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, and if you have any questions about anything gear related, feel free to drop me a line on Twitter or Instagram.

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WHS has left club competitions in a mess – and only you can fix it
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What new equipment is coming in 2021? Strap in, it’s about to get wild

Not yet tested by NCG
New golf equipment

Hello and Happy New Year. Each time the clock ticks over midnight and into January that only means one thing in my world: loads of new golf equipment.

And not even a global pandemic has affected it this year.

So what have we got coming up in the next few weeks?

Well we've got an upgraded SIM range from TaylorMade - but I'm not allowed to tell you about that just yet. (Though they did put out a little teaser on social media.)

Titleist also have some exciting news coming up - but I'm not allowed to tell you about that just yet either. At least you can head to our YouTube channel and enjoy the NASA-inspired TSi range that has already been revealed while you wait.

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: Then we've got the next line in the Ping family - but I'm not allowed to tell you about that just yet either.

And there is also a new line-up from Callaway - but, you guessed it, I'm not allowed to tell you about that just yet either. (That'll explain why new signing Jon Rahm was posing with last year's Mavrik range in his promotional shots.)

That's before we get to new launches from FootJoy, Srixon, Wilson and many more…

At least Cobra were kind enough to release their 2021 gear before the mad January rush. You can see the reviews of the entire Radspeed range on our YouTube channel.

So how are we going to do this? Well, traditionally through the year our equipment videos go live on YouTube each Wednesday at 8pm. We will now publish two a week, with Mondays at 8pm added to the schedule.

And, of course, with England in lockdown and golf clubs closed, I won't be able to get out and hit the new gear on the course, but I have my Net World Sports home setup and my Foresight GC2 launch monitor ready to go - and if you're lucky there may be more guest appearances from my family.

So make sure you hit the subscribe button on our YouTube channel so you don't miss anything and if you have any questions - or to wish me luck - please don't hesitate to get in touch via Twitter or Instagram.

Enjoy!

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Golf’s worst-kept secret is out – but will Rahm’s equipment switch work for him?

Not yet tested by NCG
John Rahm Callaway

Golf's latest worst-kept secret is now official: Jon Rahm is a Callaway player.

It's a strong start to the year for Callaway. Not many signings come bigger than the World No 2.

Many may be surprised by the switch. After all, the Spaniard has just had a remarkable 12 months which included climbing to the top of the world rankings for the first time.

So why the change?

From Callaway's perspective it's perfect timing. The brand were in need of a star name after losing Sergio Garcia last year. But Rahm has seemed so comfortable of late and you can't help but wonder if it's wise to change your entire equipment setup at such a vital stage of his career.

Manufacturer claims, not tested by NCG: Everyone assumes players just move for money but, while I'm sure Rahm will do very well financially from this deal, the motivation may come from elsewhere. Rahm spent the entirety of 2020 ranked inside the world's top three, including a brief spell as No 1, but with TaylorMade's star line up - including Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson - he wasn't the key player on their roster.

Rahm strikes me as a player who wants to be front and centre at any given opportunity. He certainly will be at Callaway.

And why Callaway?

There are a couple of things to note here on why Rahm chose Callaway. It's not a huge change for the 26-year-old, who gamed some Callaway gear in his college days - most notably the Odyssey 2-ball putter which helped him become the longest serving No 1 ranked amateur in history.

And let's not forget Rahm's close relationship with Callaway's main man Phil Mickelson and his brother-turned-caddie Tim, who was Rahm's head coach and mentor at Arizona State.

But will it be good for his golf game?

There have been many high-profile post-equipment change struggles - who can forget Rory McIlroy's year following his switch to Nike? - but I can't imagine Rahm will be concerned given his previous relationship with Callaway - and we know he's been testing their gear since at least November.

Rahm also makes no secret of the fact he thrives under added pressure. This switch will undoubtedly mean more eyeballs on him, but he will relish that.

Indeed, Rahm is already having some success with the new gear. "In my first round with the new setup I shot a course-record 59 at Silverleaf," he said.

One thing's for sure, it's going to be a fun year.

What do you think of Rahm's decision? Let me know in the comments or you can tweet me.

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Callaway