All the Gear: Which new iron did Joost Luiten use for his PGA ace?
By James Savage
Holland’s Joost Luiten made the first hole-in-one with a brand new Titleist iron on day one of the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow.
And it wasn’t one you would necessarily expect.
The Dutch star has a bag full of the new 718 AP3 irons. We’re used to seeing tour players using the MB, CB or AP2 model. The AP3 is slightly larger.
?Hole in one! ?
?♂️ @joostluiten pic.twitter.com/CgsjS4E0GG
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) August 10, 2017
He doesn’t have a Titleist club deal but must have taken a liking to the new model. We’ve been at Archerfield learning all about the new 718 irons and can bring you all the details later this month.
Scenes @archerfieldgolf as we prepare to test the @TitleistEurope 718/818 range… pic.twitter.com/h58hOgHKrT
— James Savage (@JamesSavageNCG) August 10, 2017
New blades for Luke Donald and Paul Casey
I’m sure you will seen our launch coverage of the new Mizuno MP-18 irons last week.
The new models have found their to Quail Hollow and into the bags of Luke Donald and Paul Casey.
New #MP18 set up for @LukeDonald this week. #nothingfeelslikeamizuno pic.twitter.com/vZ4yEVB9Qa
— Mizuno Golf Europe (@MizunoGolf_News) August 10, 2017
Donald, a long time Mizuno staffer, has the regular MP-18 blades but has opted for a bit more forgiveness with the MP-18 MMC Fli Hi model for his 3-iron.
Meanwhile Casey, who isn’t a contracted player, has also had a set of the classic muscleback MP-18s made for him this week.
Just built these beauties for one lucky guy.#MP18#PGAChampionship pic.twitter.com/aHhWBO6Mal
— Mizuno Golf (@Golf_Mizuno) August 8, 2017
New wedge and long iron set up for Rory
Rory McIlroy isn’t afraid of an equipment change – even on the eve of a major championship.
The two-time PGA champion has opted to drop a wedge and add a 3-iron to his bag.
On the equipment side, Rory confirmed he’s going with a three wedge setup instead of four. Adding 3-iron for this week. pic.twitter.com/Y0OJm88lCH
— Jonathan Wall (@jonathanrwall) August 9, 2017
McIlroy plays the TaylorMade Milled Grind Wedges and has gone for the P750 3-iron.
And finally… Are we saying yes or no to shorts?
You’ll have no doubt seen the players wearing shorts during their practice rounds this week.
But is it a good thing? I think it’s ridiculous that they weren’t allowed previously.
However after seeing some of the options chosen, I’m beginning to think banning them wasn’t such a bad idea after all.
What do you think?
The Mizuno MP-18 irons are here – and we’ve played with them
Which Mizuno MP-18 irons will suit your game?
James Savage
Former equipment editor of NCG. Inconsistent ball-striker and tea-maker.
