Tag Archives: Bill Price

TaylorMade Golf, Wedges

TaylorMade Golf – New Milled Grind 4 wedges, with all-new Spin Treat technology, enhanced in wet conditions

August 15, 2023 – TaylorMade Golf, an industry leader in golf equipment innovation, unveils its latest breakthrough in wedge design – the Milled Grind 4 (MG4) with the all-new Spin Tread technology. Built upon the success of its predecessors, MG4 represents a significant advancement in the Milled Grind family, offering golfers a combination of spin control, versatility and premium feel.

“This is a major step forward in the progression of the Milled Grind family. With MG4 we have evolved our approach to wet spin and developed an all-new Spin Tread technology. We use a laser etching treatment to create face roughness, which translates to better friction and moisture channeling for optimal ball control, especially on partial shots,” says Bill Price, Senior Director of Product Creation, Putter & Wedge of the company.

This innovation proves crucial, particularly in wet conditions, where players experience higher launches and reduced spin. By combining the laser treatment with strategically designed grooves and a raw face, TaylorMade has achieved notable improvements in wet spin rates compared to prior models while also increasing face durability.

The technology works in a similar fashion to the tread on a tire, which creates space for water to exit so the tire can have direct contact with the pavement and better grip the road. In the case of MG4, the treads channel away moisture and allow the golf ball to stay on the face longer while imparting more spin.

With MG4, TaylorMade has not only focused on performance and technology, but also prioritised aesthetics and player feedback. MG4 features a refined finish with a slightly darker tint, minimising glare and providing a more unified appearance that blends seamlessly with the raw face as it oxidises over time. Furthermore, the redesigned back geometry enhances the wedge with a more solid and softer feel – all complimenting its refined Tour-inspired shaping and address versatility.

“The feel component is a significant factor. By replacing the chrome-plated face with raw finishes early in the Milled Grind evolution, we were able to influence spin and also enhance the overall feel of the wedge. Adding our reconstructed backbar, with more weight positioned directly behind the strike zone, allows us to help players achieve their desired shot trajectories and spin rates with premium feel and confidence,” says Greg Cesario, TaylorMade Wedge Design Team of the company.

TaylorMade has introduced a comprehensive range of sole grinds in the MG4 lineup, offering golfers more versatility while also simplifying the selection process. The grinds are categorised into three main options: low bounce (LB), standard bounce (SB) and high bounce (HB). However, to cater to different swing dynamics, the company added alternative options in each category, providing a total of six bounces to meet the player’s unique requirements.

The new MG4 wedge range features the following sole grinds:

  • Low Bounce (LB): Low leading edge for added versatility and shot making in firm conditions.
  • Low Bounce V (LBV): Designed for skilled players with a shallow attack angle, offering exceptional spin and the ability to manipulate face angles effectively.
  • Standard Bounce (SB): All-around performance that prevents excessive digging and allows the clubhead to glide through the turf smoothly.
  • Standard Bounce C (SBC): Provides increased versatility for players who prefer to manipulate face angles, without compromising bounce performance.
  • High Bounce (HB): TaylorMade’s standard high bounce design is playable for skilled golfers and defies the convention that high bounce wedges are only for high handicappers. In fact, Rory McIlroy uses a HB 60º Milled Grind 4 depending on course conditions.
  • High Bounce Wide (HBW): With an increased sole width, this high bounce option offers improved playability and excels in sand play.

  • Tiger Woods Grind (TW): Offered in 56° and 60° lofts, each sole on the MG4 TW was inspired by Tiger’s grind. The 56° wedge is a dual sole with heavy heel relief, while the 60° has an extremely high bounce on the leading edge with a shaved heel. Designed to be supremely versatile, these unique grinds allow Tiger to take on any shot, on any course, anywhere in the world.

The TaylorMade Milled Grind 4 wedges are available in two premium finishes, Tour Satin Chrome and Tour Matte Black (SB only). Milled Grind 4 will be available at retail on September 8, 2023 with an RRP of 199€, with the TW Grind at an RRP of 249€.

Standard available lofts include 46º, 48º, 50º, 52º, 54º, 56º, 58º and 60º. The 46º and 48º lofts are only available in Standard Bounce options. The wedges come equipped with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue 115g Wedge shaft and Lamkin Crossline 360 Black/Silver/Green Round grip.

Putters, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – Launch of the new TP Reserve family of premium milled putters

June 23, 20232 – With a history of innovation in putter technology, TaylorMade Golf expands its reach across the ecosystem of putter design and plants its flag in the world of premium milled putters with the launch of TP Reserve.

The TP Reserve family of premium milled putters features three classic blade shapes and three refined mallets. Each TP Reserve model is a blend of detailed precision, crafted with classic styling and awe-inspiring aesthetics.

Designed and machined with soft 303 stainless steel, machined-in grooves on the face reduce surface area, impacting the ball for a softer feel and crisp sound.

TP Reserve has fine linear mill marks across the face with a set of grooves machined in at a specific depth to achieve optimal sound. The grooves are machined in the same linear fashion with strike location from top-to-bottom and heel-to-toe, maintaining the same sound regardless of impact location.

TaylorMade engineers created four different fitting options via a combination of shaft and hosel designs for selective toe hangs. The hosel in each model is represented by the second number in the model name. Hosels included are: L-Neck No. 1, Small Slant No. 3, Single Bend No. 7 and Flow Neck No. 9.

“There is a large bucket of golfers that love the look of a classic putter shape, and we took the time to carefully craft performance in a way that is a brand-new opportunity for us. The story of TP Reserve is about style, craftsmanship and character which can be seen in every aspect of the putter”.

“We sweated the details, received TOUR feedback and went with refined edges, thinner toplines, new flange thickness and blade length to create putters built off exactness instead of sameness”, says Bill Price, Senior Director Product Creation, Putter & Wedge.

B11 & B13: Shaping to Fit the Calculated Putting Mind

Clean geometric shaping with precise edges and sharp lines help frame the ball while inspiring confidence. A thin machined topline creates an exact 8mm topline compared to the 9mm topline of the TP Juno cast putter it took inspiration from. With feedback from TaylorMade Tour Professionals, the B1 models also have a longer blade length.

B11 features a reinvented L-neck hosel where machining allowed for a shorter hosel bucket and increased radii on the edges. B13 has a small slant hosel with 57° of toe hang, the most of any putter in the TP Reserve line.

B29: Shaped for the Purpose of Putting

With smooth, flowing lines the B29 model produces exceptional feel and consistent roll time after time. B29 draws inspiration from the TP Soto and features the flow neck hosel, with machined bumpers to achieve softer edges.

B31: Reinventing a TaylorMade Classic

Engineers reinvented this classic TaylorMade shape by shaving away material behind centre face to create perfectly balanced wings on the heel and toe – dispersing weight to the perimeter for enhanced MOI.

Compared to the TP Del Monte, which was 104mm from heel to toe, the B31 is 110m to create a distinctive look with more stability. The B31 model is the only blade to feature a sole plate to dial in sound on this larger blade. It comes with the same L-neck hosel as B11.

M21 & M27: Tour-Proven Wing Design

Inspired by the TP Bandon, M21 and M27 mallets deliver high MOI performance and elegant aesthetics. The models feature a combination of soft edges and a blend of machine marks with sharp geometric lines that reflect the technical precision of this classic mallet.

M27 has a new mid-length single bend that is shorter, making the point where the shaft bends closer to the putter head. This reduces offset and produces minimal toe hang promoting easier set up and repetitive alignment.

Every TP Reserve mallet has a premium sole plate offering artisanship and function to help optimise sound and feel.

M33 & M37: Appealing to the Golfer’s Inner Creativity

This round shape is new to the TaylorMade family with outside edges that are machined and have radii to control the dimensions for advanced exactness. This model is the only TP Reserve mallet with a sightline on top, in addition to two in the back cavity. Both models have a 1mm thicker topline than the M21 & M27 models.

M33, with the small slant hosel, has the most toe hang of the TP Reserve mallets at 33°.

M47: Inspiring the Putting Purist

M47 is a blend of a blade and mallet crafted into a flawless piece of performance steel. It has the widest topline of the three TP Reserve mallets and gradient thickness in the cavity and a perfected radius along the bumpers.

The TaylorMade TP Reserve putters will be available for preorder from June 23 and at retail beginning August 18 with an RRP of 499 euros. All models come in right-handed and left-handed options with lengths of 33”, 34” and 35”. The putters come equipped with KBS 120 Chrome stepless shaft and Black Lamkin Deep Etched Pistol grip to optimise feel.

TP Reserve putters come with a premium leather headcover with its minimalist design and soft-to-the-touch feel.

Irons, Mizuno Golf

Mizuno Golf – New JPX923 Iron Series, 5 models engineered for custom-fitting to deliver exceptional performance

September 23, 2022 – Mizuno, the Japanese equipment manufacturer long renowned for its expertise in the manufacture of irons, has unveiled its new JPX923 Series of irons, inspired by data from hundreds of thousands of real golf swings.  The series features three metals and five head options. All distinctively Mizuno.

Mizuno’s new JPX923 series of irons are the latest chapter in Mizuno’s highly successful JPX story. The family of irons has been engineered for custom performance to offer the ultimate blend of looks, feel and workability. The JPX923 Series has been developed alongside Mizuno’s comprehensive custom-fitting program to deliver exceptional performance and help all golfers get the very most from their games, from elite tour players to slow-swinging amateurs, and every player in between.

The new family features five unique iron models created from three specific metals and developed using Swing DNA data from over 350,000 real golfers.  The expanded head options combine with one of over 50 custom shafts for specific trajectory, ball speed and ease of use to create options for players of all standards.

“The new JPX923 series was planned out with Mizuno’s custom ethos at its core” says David Llewellyn, Director of R&D for Mizuno. “We already offer more than 50 unique shafts within our custom program, by expanding to five iron models, there’s an ideal combination for every type of player.”

Mizuno’s Swing DNA System records 40 unique data points from more than 175,000 golfers each year. This data provides the basis for every JPX Iron project.

“We’re constantly evolving the JPX series based on more than 175,000 unique swings we capture every year on the Mizuno Shaft Optimizer,” says Bill Price, Mizuno’s Director of Fitting. “Recently we’re seeing an increase in the number of players with slightly slower swing speeds being fitted – and a trend to more shaft lean.  Hence a slight increase in bounce angles through all the models and the introduction of the Hot Metal High Launch.” 

The JPX923 series comprises: JPX923 Tour featuring a new V-Chassis and thinner topline, JPX923 Forged showcasing Mizuno’s 3rd generation of Chromoly Forging and JPX923 Hot Metal, JPX923 Hot Metal Pro and JPX Hot Metal HL all featuring new, faster 4335 Nickel Chromoly – 35% stronger than Mizuno’s original Chromoly.

JPX923 Tour / Layers of Feel

Consistently Mizuno’s most-played iron model in professional golf and still one-piece Grain Flow Forged in Hiroshima Japan from 1025E Pure Select mild carbon steel, the JPX923 Tour adds a copper underlay for an even smoother sensation at impact.  The JPX923 Tour also presents a narrower top line and sole in tandem with more rounded trailing edge for cleaner turf interaction.  Player enhancements made possible through the introduction of Mizuno’s new ‘V-Chassis’.

The JPX923 Tour is a shallow cavity suitable for elite amateurs and professionals, featuring refined scoring irons that are more compact with a noticeably shorter blade length from 6-iron to GW for precision where it’s most needed. The irons are finished with a non-reflective white-satin brush.

“The goal was to engineer a compact, players cavity back that looked and felt like a muscleback at impact.  With the copper underlay and new topline, the JPX923 Tour is right there,” says David Llewellyn.

Availability and RRP: JPX923 Tour (4-GW RH), €195.00. February 2023.

JPX923 Forged / Solid Feel, Real Speed

A mid-sized, full body Grain Flow Forged iron delivering a perfect balance of ball speed, stability, and feel. The 3rd generation of Chromoly Forging (4-7 iron) incorporates a milling slot that extends wider to heel and toe.  Paired with an even thinner clubface it creates Mizuno’s highest one-piece Forged ball speeds from an even greater portion of the clubface.  The irons showcase a thinner top line throughout, plus compact scoring irons (8-GW) and bevelled sole for improved turf interaction.

The JPX923 Forged is a mid-size cavity iron suitable for a wide range of players, from professionals to mid-handicap amateurs. The 4-7 iron are Forged from a single billet of 4120 Chromoly and back milled from to heel and toe. This creates extreme ball speeds from a compact workable profile. The face thickness is now reduced to just 2.2 mm behind impact compared to 2.6mm in the JPX921 Forged. The 8-iron to GW are forged from 1025E Pure Select mild carbon steel for ultimate precision, control and feel in the scoring zone. 8-iron to GW are more compact with shorter blade length for further control.

“The new JPX923 Forged pulls off two impressive achievements.  First it feels more solid even though it’s faster from the face.  Second, it looks sleeker with a thinner topline and narrower sole even though it plays more forgiving,” says Chris Voshall, Mizuno’s Director of Product.

Availability and RRP:  JPX923 Forged (4-GW RH and LH), €195.00. February 2023. 

JPX923 Hot Metal / The Fastest Flying, Fast Stopping Irons

Introducing Nickel Chromoly – A new material with so much additional ball speed, the engineers switched their focus to feel and stopping power. At 35% stronger than our original Hot Metal material, 4335 Nickel Chromoly enables a high-energy 8% thinner clubface. Combined with Mizuno’s vibration controlling V-Chassis and deep CG design, the JPX923 Hot Metal irons are as enjoyable and controllable as they are long. The seamless cup face construction delivers the deep centre of gravity needed for a high launch and controllable landing angle for increased stopping power whilst the thinnest part of the sole has been extended 18% wider to create a wider high-energy area on the face for more consistent ball speeds.

There are three fitting options – Hot Metal Pro, Hot Metal and Hot Metal HL (High Launch.)  175,000 real golf swings recorded via Mizuno’s Swing DNA system every year highlighted the need for variable launch options.

“There are so many different kinds of players looking for increased ball speed from their irons, we needed more options for them at a fitting level. The custom studios use shaft selection incredibly well to help with launch angle or slower swing speeds, but the JPX923 Hot Metal HL gives them a great new tool to work with,” says Chris Voshall.

JPX923 Hot Metal Pro is a player’s speed cavity that’s compact, with minimal offset for confident ball-strikers seeking maximum ball speed. It’s suitable for low to mid handicap golfers.

JPX923 Hot Metal is a forgiving speed cavity suitable for mid to high handicap golfers. It features a full speed, high stability cavity for straight flight and distance.

JPX923 Hot Metal HL is a high launch speed cavity delivering a higher launching option for players with moderate swing speeds or aggressive shaft lean, it’s suitable for mid to high handicap golfers.

Availability and RRP: JPX923 Hot Metal Pro (4-PW RH and LH), €195.00; JPX923 Hot Metal (4-LW RH and LH), €175.00; JPX923 Hot Metal High Launch (5-SW RH only), €175.00. September 2022.

All JPX923 irons will be available through the Mizuno Custom Program, which offers one of the widest selections of no upcharge shafts and grips in the industry. It provides a comprehensive range of custom fitting options, from state-of-the-art Mizuno Performance Centres spread throughout the world to a global network of Mizuno Fitters and Swing DNA Fitting Centres that rely on the Mizuno Shaft Optimizer and high-tech Swing DNA software to pinpoint each customer’s best-performing specifications.

Mizuno has always strived to “create the best products for consumers,” and the entire JPX923 iron family adheres firmly to that spirit and desire, while offering the best performance benefits that modern technology can bring.

More information at www.mizunogolf.com.

TaylorMade Golf, Wedges

TaylorMade Golf – The new Hi-Toe 3 expands wedge versatility to give golfers a single design for every short game shot

August 9, 2022 – TaylorMade Golf, the industry leader in innovation and technology, today announces the all-new Hi-Toe 3 – the company’s latest evolution of the Tour-proven Hi-Toe wedge. With an intense focus on versatility and added performance on shots closest to the green, engineers have designed a club capable of producing the entire catalogue of short game shots. From low-launching, high-spinning checkers to full-on open-faced flops, Hi-Toe 3 has been meticulously crafted to help golfers unlock creativity and save strokes around the green.

PERFORMANCE WHEN IT MATTERS THE MOST

Par-saving up and downs can have a more significant impact than birdies. That is why so many of the world’s best players have the world’s best short games. What are the keys to delivering in those pivotal moments around the green?

It starts with versatility and imagination—the originality to envision a variety of shots along with the tools and confidence to pull them off.

The history of Hi-Toe began on Tour, as the product and engineering teams worked directly with Team TaylorMade athletes to develop the original design in 2018. The main request was versatility.

“Our athletes all offered great input individually, but collectively everyone wanted something versatile. They wanted a single wedge that could perform around the greens from deep rough, thick fescue, bunkers with different sands, in wet conditions and from tight lies. That is a lot to fit into a single design but with Hi-Toe 3 we have done it,” says Bill Price, Product Creation, Wedges and Putters of the company.

The Hi-Toe 3 design produces a higher centre of gravity that is engineered for a lower launch and more spin, delivering even better control and spin properties on full swings.

WHAT’S NEW WITH HI-TOE 3

Advanced versatility in the Hi-Toe 3 begins with the four-way cambered sole, which remains a staple of the original design. The unique geometry allows for a wide sole and the forgiveness associated with high bounce while maintaining a low leading edge, making it playable from tight lies and visually appealing to better players. Trailing edge relief adds to the versatility by allowing golfers to easily and comfortably open the face to manipulate loft, trajectory, and spin on short shots. The large ZTP RAW Grooves feature radii further engineered for optimal spin in various conditions.

New elements that enhance Hi-Toe 3’s versatility include expanding full length scoring lines to all lofts above 54° and the addition of raised micro-ribs.

  • Full Length Scoring Lines:Full length scoring lines on wedges of 54° and higher help generate spin around the green when the face is rotated open on shorter shots. This is the first time TaylorMade has offered full length scoring lines that stretch across the entire length of the face in a 54° wedge.
  • Raised Micro-Ribs:Milled ribs positioned between the full grooves add texture to the face and are designed for increased spin and performance on partial shots around the green. This technology was first introduced in TaylorMade’s Milled Grind 3 wedge and has now been added to the Hi-Toe family.

An aged copper finish adds a premium aesthetic and will blend seamlessly with the RAW face as it rusts over time.

Price & Availability: Hi-Toe 3 is available for order now at retail locations with an RRP of 189 Euros. Hi-Toe 3 comes stock with the KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 shaft (115g) and Lamkin Crossline 360 Round 52g grips (Gray/Blue/Black End Cap). Hi-Toe 3 is available in standard bounce (50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58° and 60°), low bounce (58° and 60°), and high bounce (58° and 60°).

Putters, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – The acclaimed Spider franchise expanded with the all-new Spider GT family of putters

January 25, 2022 – TaylorMade Spider putters are amongst the most recognisable in the world, utilising unique shapes and materials to deliver industry-leading performance in high-MOI mallets, and now they have a whole new identity.

Today, TaylorMade Golf introduces the Spider GT family with four new additions to the acclaimed Spider franchise: Spider GT, Spider GT Notchback, Spider GT Rollback and Spider GT Splitback. The four models set a new standard of performance and contemporary construction, headlined by a Spider GT with its modern wing design and ultra-lightweight top plate.

“Innovation has long been the bloodline of the Spider franchise. From its optimised stability frame to its countless victories on worldwide tours, every Spider putter is designed to deliver pure performance”.

“With Spider GT, we have created our most angular and most stable Spider ever using a new modern wing construction similar to other high stability Spider putters of the past. With the removal of weight from the centre of Spider GT, we have unlocked higher MOI and more stability from every angle”, says Bill Price, Senior Director Product Creation, Putters & Wedge.

TAYLORMADE SPIDER GT PUTTER

 

The most striking feature of the Spider GT is the lightweight 145g top plate made from 6061 aluminium, which eliminates excess weight in the middle of the putter and carries a short sightline for alignment. Combined with the ultralight top plate, the first of its kind open frame multi-material design features two 90g steel side weights that push 82 percent of the putter’s total weight to the perimeter. This creates extreme stability on off-centre strikes.

The Spider GT top plate is crafted from lightweight aluminium for both a premium look and increased durability compared to paint or PVD finishes. The four anodized finishes for Spider GT are silver, black, red and white for the Spider GT women’s model, which also features a three-dot sightline for alignment.

Spider GT’s contemporary design has the Pure Roll² co-moulded insert for improved forward roll and ball speed consistency across the face. Pure Roll² is a firmer insert, manufactured of black TPU urethane with silver aluminium beams at a 45° angle designed to improve topspin across the face.

Spider GT will be available for preorder on February 15 and at retail beginning March 4 with an RRP of 399€. Available lengths include 33″, 34″ and 35″. Offered in three different top-plate colourways: Silver, Red, Black and a White women’s offering.

Hosel options include single bend, centre shaft and short slant. The short slant design combines with Spider GT’s extreme perimeter weighting to generate 21° of toe hang for a more vertical angle, delivering a putter that best fits players with moderate face rotation in the putting stroke.

The CG has been moved closer to face for an improved face rotation. The single bend and centre shaft hosels and modern design create a face balanced putter that better fits players with a straight-back and straight-through putting motion.

Spider GT comes equipped with the TaylorMade Fluted Feel shaft and Super Stroke GT 1.0 Black/Red grip. The white women’s offering, with light blue wings, comes at 33” and the Super Stroke GT 1.0 Light Blue/Gray grip. Additionally, the headcover for the entire Spider GT family has been upgraded with a magnetic closure, offering a more premium and durable headcover compared to Velcro.

TAYLORMADE SPIDER GT NOTCHBACK PUTTER

Spider GT Notchback blends traditional design with contemporary construction to create a time-honored shape. CG is positioned the farthest forward with Notchback’s to make face rotation easier.

Featuring a lightweight 6061 aluminium body combined with strategically placed 86g dual-tungsten weights on the outside (heel and toe), Spider GT Notchback has premier stability, forgiveness and distance control. Our records show that it produces the highest MOI ever created by a mid-size mallet Spider.

An extruded then machined aluminium head creates a stout section of material behind the face insert for a confidence-inspiring strike along with superb sound. Both Spider GT Notchback and Rollback feature a tri-sole design that allows golfers to properly set the putter square on the ground without changing the face angle.

Spider GT Notchback will be available for preorder on February 15 and at retail beginning March 4 with an RRP of 339€. Available lengths include 33″, 34″ and 35″, and it is offered in a Silver colourway. Hosel options include single bend and short slant. The short slant hosel combines with Spider GT Notchback’s extreme perimeter weighting to generate 30° of toe hang for players with moderate face rotation in the putting stroke. The single bend hosel creates a face-balanced putter that better fits a straight-back and straight-through putting motion. It comes equipped with the TaylorMade Fluted Feel shaft and Super Stroke GT 1.0 Black/Red grip.

TAYLORMADE SPIDER GT ROLLBACK PUTTER

Spider GT Rollback is a classic half-moon design enhanced by a heavy tungsten rollbar for added perimeter weighting and increased stability. Rollback creates confidence at address with a raised, curved centre section that is the same width as a golf ball. This makes it easy to centre the ball in the address position and three contrasting black sightlines provide clear alignment with the hole.

The Rollback top design has a lighter anterior with a 232g cap crafted from anodized 6061 aluminium combined with our first 80g tungsten stability bar that wraps around the back and side of the putter for added forgiveness and stability.

Spider GT Rollback will be available for preorder on February 15 and at retail beginning March 4 with an RRP of 339€. Available lengths include 33″, 34″ and 35″, and it is offered in a Silver/Black and all Silver colourway. Hosel options include single bend and the all-new short slant. The short slant hosel combines with Spider GT Rollback’s extreme perimeter weighting to generate 21° of toe hang for players with moderate face rotation in the putting stroke. The single bend hosel creates a face-balanced putter that better fits a straight-back and straight-through putting motion. It comes equipped with the TaylorMade Fluted Feel shaft and Super Stroke GT 1.0 Black/Red grip.

TAYLORMADE SPIDER GT SPLITBACK PUTTER

Spider GT Splitback features a refined 304-stainless steel construction with geometric shaping and urethane foam strategically injected inside the putter head.

The split mass “winged” design allowed TaylorMade designers to redistribute mass around the perimeter of the putter in order to maximize MOI and stability. In this shape, a steel body naturally provides more perimeter weighting than an aluminium one.

Due to the high density of steel, the wing sections of the design needed to be partially pocketed out to remove excess weight. The chambers within the wings are filled with feel foam, similar to the SpeedFoam material used in P·770/P·790 irons. This helps fill the voids and damp vibrations, resulting in better sound and feel.

Spider GT Splitback incorporates one of the standout features of Spider X with True Path, TaylorMade’s ball alignment and stroke visualisation aid. While standing over Spider GT Splitback, True Path is highly visible and seamlessly integrated into the head. The contrasting white section, black sightline and arrow-shaped rear edge help golfers visualise their putting stroke and ball path before ever executing the putt.

Spider GT Splitback will be available for preorder on February 15 and at retail beginning March 4 with an RRP of 339€. Available lengths include 33″, 34″ and 35″, and it is offered in a Black colourway. Hosel options include single bend and short slant.

The 85° short slant hosel combines with Spider GT Splitback’s extreme perimeter weighting to generate 25° of toe hang for players with moderate face rotation in the putting stroke. The single bend hosel creates a face-balanced putter that better fits a straight-back and straight-through putting motion. It comes equipped with the TaylorMade Fluted Feel shaft and Super Stroke GT 1.0 Black/Red grip.

TaylorMade Golf, Wedges

TaylorMade Golf – Introducing the new Milled Grind 3 wedges, with RAW Face and Raised Micro-Ribs

August 10, 2021 – TaylorMade Golf, an industry leader in innovation and technology, introduces the all-new Milled Grind 3 (MG3) wedges, building on the Tour-proven performance of RAW Face Technology.

Many of the game’s best players prefer RAW wedges for a critical reason. The un-plated surface material will rust over time to preserve consistent spin while also delivering better performance in wet conditions. The all-new Raised Micro-Ribs further enhance those benefits and deliver added precision around the greens – especially on partial shots.

“Wedges have to be versatile and exacting, whether it’s a full swing from 100 yards, a touchy 15-yard pitch that needs to stop quickly, or any distance in between. With Milled Grind 3, we’ve designed a wedge that’s capable of delivering optimal spin on every shot from every distance,” says Bill Price, Director of Product Creation, Putter & Wedge, of the company.

Raised Micro-Ribs (0.02mm tall and .25mm wide) span the entire face and sit between the traditional grooves. They create an abrasive and textured surface area that improves the interaction between clubface and ball on finesse shots.

Additional changes to the face (compared to MG2) include a scratch finish on the toe area to reduce glare at address.

TaylorMade’s Milled Grind Sole process produces wedges of exacting specifications time after time. Each leading edge and sole grind are individually CNC milled for accuracy and consistency from club to club. Player-inspired alterations to the sole and bounce offerings for MG3 wedges include:

  • Low Bounce (LB) – The new LB sole geometry promotes a smoother entry and exit of the club through the turf. The leading edge sits closer to the ground and has less tendency to catch upon entry, while a slight increase in camber will help the club glide through the turf with less resistance. Added trail edge relief delivers versatility when opening the face up to hit finesse shots around the green.
  • Standard Bounce (SB) – With a slightly wider sole than on MG2, the SB sole geometry is geared towards increased playability and forgiveness on various shots. Added trail edge relief delivers versatility when opening the face up to hit finesse shots around the green.
  • High Bounce (HB) – The HB sole geometry is designed to help players with a steep attack angle or those who play in softer conditions. Like the SB, the sole is slightly wider than MG2 and has increased camber for smoother turf interaction. Added trail edge relief delivers versatility when opening the face up to hit finesse shots around the green.

  • TW Grind – Offered in custom offerings only, with 56º and 60º lofts available, each sole on the MG3 TW was inspired by Tiger’s grind. The 56º wedge is a dual sole with heavy heel relief, while the 60º has an extremely high bounce on the leading edge with a shaved heel. This makes it possible to open the face for flop shots, while still providing relief on the leading edge for better performance on tight lies. Designed to be supremely versatile, these unique grinds allow Tiger to take on any shot, on any course, anywhere in the world. Available January 2022.

In examining every component of wedge design during the development of MG3, engineers made a special effort to improve sound and launch. While seemingly unrelated, improvements to both were achieved by altering the Thick-Thin Design of MG3. Precision mass placement optimised CG location to encourage lower launch with increased spin (i.e., the higher the loft, the higher the CG) while simultaneously delivering better sound and feel responses during player testing.

The addition of progressive hosel lengths completes the comprehensive MG3 design. Pairing different hosel lengths with different lofts allows for optimal CG location and promotes a seamless transition from iron sets into wedges.

Pricing & Availability 

Milled Grind 3 wedges are available in two premium finishes, Satin RAW Chrome and Satin RAW Black. Loft options in Standard Bounce include 46º, 50º, 52º, 54º, 56º, 58º and 60º. Low Bounce loft options: 56º, 58º and 60º. High Bounce options: 52º, 54º, 56º, 58º and 60º. The TW Grind is only available in custom offerings with lofts of 56º or 60º.

They come equipped with True Temper Tour Issue S200 shafts and Lamkin Crossline 360 grips. Milled Grind 3 wedges will be available at retail Friday, September 3, at an RRP of 189€. TW Grind available January 2022, at an RRP of 209€.

Putters, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – New Premium Collection of TP Hydro Blast Putters

June 11, 2021 – TaylorMade Golf today announced the all-new TP Hydro Blast Putter collection – providing golfers a selection of seven traditionally shaped putters that feature a renewed dedication to performance and aesthetics.

Crafted with the purist in mind, each putter speaks to the golfing zealot that lives within us all. From the soft flowing curvatures of Soto and Chaska to the sharp geometric lines of Bandon, the collection offers a variety of fully milled putters to fit the vast spectrum of golfers and putting strokes.

The new Hydro Blast finish provides a rich, premium and cohesive look to the family. This durable yet beautiful surface is achieved by applying a high-pressure stream of water to 303 stainless steel. As an unquestioned industry standard for premium putters, 303 stainless steel was destined for milling. The soft yet strong metal delivers a superior feel and artisan aesthetics.

Each model is equipped with the same White Pure Roll Insert that’s helped propel Spider X to more than a dozen Tour victories since 2019. It features grooves at a downward 45º angle, designed to optimise roll characteristics by producing enhanced topspin to help the ball start rolling end over end sooner.

Putters in the TP Hydro Blast collection are named in honor of iconic golfing regions and destinations around the globe. Further differentiating factors include hosel types, sightlines and toe hang. With such variety, there is a TP Hydro Blast putter for every putting style and stroke.

“We relied on precision milling and the new Hydro Blast finish to deliver an artisan look to this family of premium putters. Through clean aesthetics, time-honored shaping and superior feel, we’ve blended the modern with the traditional to create a new class of classic,” says Bill Price, TaylorMade Product Creation, Putter & Wedge.

TP HYDRO BLAST SOTO & DEL MONTE

Soto is a classically shaped blade that features flowing, rounded edges. A clean build with a single sightline on the back cavity, this time-honored shape is meant to inspire confidence and produce exceptional feel putt after putt. Equipped with an L-Neck hosel, the traditional blade shape produces 40° of toe hang, resulting in a putter that best fits players who create maximum face rotation throughout the putting motion.

With a shorter blade length and a wider area from front to back, the Del Monte has a squattier profile that translates to a more mallet-like feel while maintaining the characteristics of a blade.

It comes in two models, one with an L-Neck and the other a Single Bend hosel. With 29º of toe hang, the L-Neck best fits players who create moderate face rotation throughout the swing. The Single Bend hosel delivers a more face balanced outcome (only 8º of toe hang) that better aligns with golfers who have a straight back and straight through putting motion.

TP HYDRO BLAST BANDON

This Tour-inspired double wing design helps frame the ball at address and encourages forgiveness via optimised perimeter weighting. With sharp geometric lines that reflect the technical precision of this classically made mallet, the Bandon was the first TP Hydro Blast model to appear on Tour.

Tommy Fleetwood first put the L-Neck version in the bag at the RBC Heritage in Hilton Head, South Carolina, after spending hours with TaylorMade’s Tour team and testing numerous configurations. He ultimately elected to use Bandon 1 because it improved the centeredness of his strikes – with his prior putter, he tended to have heel-ward mis-hits.

Fleetwood has a long history of using blade putters, and because this model features 22º of toe hang, it made the transition to a mallet-style head seamless.

“For Tommy, the centeredness of strike was a big reason for his switch to the Bandon. The heel- side miss is something he battled with his blade, and we’ve helped him develop a little more consistency with this one. Beyond that, he’s very comfortable with the shape of the putter and has said that it helps him with alignment,” says Adrian Rietveld, TaylorMade Senior Tour Rep.

The Bandon 3 is the second iteration of this model. It features a short slant hosel with increased toe hang (32°) for even more blade-like performance within a mallet design.

TP HYDRO BLAST DUPAGE

As a modern take on the traditional mallet design, the DuPage relies on unique visual alignment cues and a dual-slot cavity to help frame the ball at address. This face balanced putter features a single bend hosel and is better suited for players with a straight back and straight through putting motion.

TP HYDROBLAST CHASKA

The Tour-proven Chaska revisits the original TaylorMade Corza Ghost design with the familiar circular alignment aid in the back of the putter and three sightlines on top. With rounded contours, adjustable sole weights and three forward sightlines, the design provides exceptional stability and simple alignment features. This face balanced putter features a single bend hosel and is better suited for players with a straight back and straight through putting motion.

TP Hydro Blast Putters are available at retail starting today, 11th of June 2021, with each model carrying an RRP of 229€.

More information in TaylorMadeGolf.eu.

Putters, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – All-new Spider FCG Putter, with the forgiveness of a mallet with the feel of a blade

August 12, 2020 – Building upon a rich history that spans more than a decade, TaylorMade Golf, the industry leader in innovation and technology, has announced the latest addition to the acclaimed family of Spider putters – the all-new Spider FCG (Forward Centre of Gravity).

At the core of all Spider designs is a legacy of advanced materials and increased stability. While that remains true with Spider FCG, a new and innovative construction allows the company to deliver a putter that upholds the Spider tradition while simultaneously performing like a blade.

Looks Like a Mallet

Featuring an all-new T-Sightline True Path, Spider FCG resembles a more traditional mallet shape compared to other Spider designs. The optically engineered alignment feature allows the golfer aim with the front edge and/or the vertical line, creating a perpendicular alignment aid. Rich aesthetics are brought to life through contrasting colours, sharp lines and copper accents.

“In developing Spider FCG, we sought insights from many of the top players on Tour. We compiled that information to construct a clean and traditional mallet shape that performs in a non-traditional way. The result is an intelligently designed high-MOI mallet that’s built for golfers who have an arced putting stroke. Forward CG placement lets the toe release freely like a blade, while the mallet shape and perimeter weighting help maintain the signature Spider family forgiveness,”says Bill Price, Director of Product Creation pf Putter & Wedge Categories.

Feels Like a Blade

The challenge of engineering a mallet with blade-like performance starts with CG placement. In traditional mallet designs, much of the weight is in the perimeter and rear of the putter head – which helps to increase MOI and enhance distance control. With Spider FCG a massive 2/3 of the total head weight is located in the anterior, allowing the toe to rotate around that centre of mass.

In order to front-load the head, an adjustable weight port was positioned on the sole of the putter directly behind the face. Heavy heel and toe tungsten weights account for more than 100g of weight, while a lightweight rear canopy rounds out the shape.

Further adding to the forward CG properties is the CU29 Pure Roll insert. Crafted from 100% pure copper, this 25g insert is the heaviest TaylorMade has ever constructed. However, like other Pure Roll designs, its 45º grooves are engineered to increase topspin and improve forward roll across varying surfaces – helping the ball start and stay on its intended line. In addition to the performance attributes, the metal insert delivers a firmer feel and adds to the blade-like performance of this unique putter.

Forgives Like a Spider

It wouldn’t be a Spider if it didn’t forgive. With Spider FCG, the mallet shape and perimeter weighting help maintain that signature forgiveness. In conjunction with the forward CG placement, this design encourages a free release of the toe (like a blade) and provides a powerful option for golfers with an arced stroke who still seek forgiveness and help with alignment.

Spider FCG is available in three different hosel types, each meant for a different style of putting stroke. The Short Slant hosel offers 46º of toe hang (squarely in range with most blade models) to fit golfers with a significant amount of face rotation. The L-Neck has 25º of toe hang for golfers with moderate face rotation and the Single Bend is the most face balanced of the three – better aligning with golfers who have minimal rotation in the putting stroke.

  • Availability: At retail beginning the 4th of September, the Spider FCG will come equipped with KBS Stepless Black CT Putter shaft as well as the Super Stroke Pistol Black/White 1.0 PT grip. Available in lengths of 33”, 34” and 35” in both RH and LH.
  • RRP:349€.
Clubfitting, Mizuno Golf

Mizuno Golf – Mizuno Shaft Optimizer 3D software evolves to facilitate ball and driver fitting

March 4, 2020 – Mizuno, the renowned Japanese equipment manufacturer, is continuing to push golf’s custom-fitting boundaries with further upgrades to its long-established Shaft Optimizer fitting tool that uses a built-in Gyro and transmission via Bluetooth to the Swing DNA software to digitally recommend the correct equipment for individual requirements.

Mizuno believes that precise and accurate custom-fitting is the only way to help every golfer reap the maximum performance benefits from its premium golf equipment. The Mizuno fitting offering has now been expanded to encompass the RBTour and RBTour X balls, RB566 and RB566V balls, and the ST200 driver.

The latest version of Mizuno’s Shaft Optimizer 3D (SO3D) software will allow for ball fitting, providing individuals with the optimum ball for their game based on shaft lean and attack angle, using data established from Swing DNA and SO3D results. Recommendations will be between the RB Tour, RB Tour X and new RB566V balls.

The capacity for driver shaft fitting will be the first of its kind, utilizing bending profiles, as per Mizuno’s renowned iron fitting, which will allow Mizuno fitting experts to establish exactly which shaft in the Mizuno ST200 driver will best suit any individual.

Since its introduction in 2010, Mizuno’s Shaft Optimizer has become the favoured iron shaft fitting tool of golf professionals worldwide. Measuring five critical dynamics within the swing (Mizuno Swing DNA), the Optimizer is able to recommend an iron shaft best matched to any golfer’s movement. Mizuno measures every shaft in-house to establish a map of EI curves to which it then matches the swing profiles. The new Bluetooth Optimizer enables Mizuno’s club fitters to capture swing data directly to the software, run from an iPad or iPhone.

A recent upgrade saw a Gyro added to the Shaft Optimizer’s existing strain gauges, which allows Mizuno’s experienced fitters to digitally recommend a far more accurate lie angle than the traditional method of lie tape and strike board. The Gyro enables the club’s swing plane to be measured in 3D space along with shaft dynamics, ignoring face rotation through impact for a more accurate lie angle reading. Using a combination of the Gyro and strain gauges which run throughout the shaft, Mizuno is now able to capture 40 data points from every swing.

The added capability of fitting for balls and drivers further enhances the fitting experience Mizuno can offer.

“This is a great step forwards for the whole fitting process,” says Bill Price, Director of Fitting at Mizuno. “In terms of the golf ball, being fitted for the correct model to suit your playing style can greatly improve performance. With regards shaft fitting for the ST200 driver, we’re ahead of the curve on this one. Using the same technologies as our iron shaft fitting enables us to precisely recommend shaft options for individual players.”

In today’s launch monitor era, Mizuno sees the optimum club-fitting scenario as the Shaft Optimizer 3D in conjunction with a launch monitor rather than as an alternative. “Look at the Optimizer as a recommendation,” Bill Price explains, “a shortcut to taking 50 possible shaft options down to just three. The launch monitor can then measure the real world results of those three shafts. Without the Shaft Optimizer, the fitter is just guessing which shafts to test, so if the correct one is lined up 12th, you won’t have the energy left to find out!”

Mizuno’s new Shaft Optimizer with Bluetooth and digital lie angle is available to test at Mizuno Swing DNA Centres. The latest technology will allow for both ball and driver fitting.

More information at golf.mizunoeurope.com and www.carsersports.com.

Putters, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – Advanced materials and intelligent shaping the the new Spider S putter

February 10, 2020 – TaylorMade Golf has launched Spider S – the latest addition to the company’s acclaimed Spider putter franchise. The uniquely shaped putter family provides the ultimate in stability and forgiveness through high-MOI mallet designs.

Spider S is manufactured from high-grade 6061 aluminium and 100-percent machine milled for precision shaping. The square-frame putter head is outfitted with two 48g tungsten sole weights that are strategically placed on the toe and the heel to help stabilise the putter while also optimising CG location.

A heavy tungsten backbar is used to further customise swing weight based on the length of the putter. Coming in 55g, 65g and 80g units, the backbar at the rear of the putter is designed to influence head weight, feel and performance. The heaviest weight (80g) pairs with the shortest putter length (33 inches) and vice versa.

The combination of advanced materials and square shaping promotes high MOI for increased forgiveness and consistent roll on strikes across the face. With an MOI of 6,000-plus, Spider S offers the most forgiving performance of any model in the Spider franchise.

Completing the design is the Tour-proven Pure Roll Insert. With Spider S, the company opted for a thicker 5mm surlyn insert designed for better sound, feel and roll characteristics.

Spider S Navy

Spider S Chalk

“With Spider S, we utilise advanced materials and machine milling to create the highest MOI and most forgiving model in our Spider line up. The beauty and performance of this putter is in all of the tungsten. We use more than 150g in each head to deliver precision weighting and optimal performance,” says Bill Price, TaylorMade Senior Director of Product Creation, Putter & Wedge.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Available lengths include 33”, 34” and 35”.
  • Comes equipped with the KBS Stepless Stability Shaft and Super Stroke Pistol GTR 1.0 grip.
  • Offered in two different colorways: Navy and Chalk.
  • Spider S will be available at retail beginning February 7.
  • RRP: 349€.