Tag Archives: Brian Bazzel

Drivers, Fairway Woods, Golf Apparel, Irons, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – New Shadowfall Collection, premium performance technology that meets bold dark finishes

April 21, 2026 – TaylorMade Golf company has announced the Shadowfall Collection, a design-focused lineup that brings premium dark finishes to high-performance equipment spanning Qi4D drivers and fairway woods, P·790 irons, and apparel. The collection represents TaylorMade’s most visually cohesive release, unifying advanced technologies under refined aesthetics for golfers who demand both world-class performance and distinctive style.

“The Shadowfall Collection is a good example of what’s possible when advanced technology meets refined design — a complete collection unified by premium aesthetics and performance”.  

“From the aerodynamic optimisation in Qi4D drivers, to the versatility of Qi4D fairway woods, to the players distance and forged feel of P·790 irons, to the apparel details, this collection reflects what we’re always working toward at TaylorMade. It’s equipment built for golfers who want exceptional performance and exceptional aesthetics — and aren’t willing to give up one for the other,” said Brian Bazzel, Vice President of Product Creation of the company.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY: NO DETAIL OVERLOOKED<

The Shadowfall Collection embraces premium dark aesthetics as a design statement. High-gloss black finishes on Qi4D drivers and fairway woods accentuate aerodynamic shaping and distinctive geometry, while the luxurious dark finish on P·790 irons highlights the Tour-inspired profile. Total blackout design in apparel extends the collection’s monochromatic theme beyond equipment.

This aesthetic approach serves both form and function—the dark finishes emphasise engineering details, refined lines, and premium construction while making a striking visual statement. The Shadowfall Collection is made for golfers who appreciate that exceptional performance can be paired with bold design that stands apart.

Qi4D SHADOWFALL DRIVERS: ADVANCED PERFORMANCE
MEETS PREMIUM BLACK FINISHES

The Shadowfall Collection features three Qi4D driver models in high-gloss black finish—Qi4D, Qi4D Max, and Qi4D LS. Each model delivers advanced performance technology wrapped in a premium aesthetic that makes a noticeable statement on the tee.

The high-gloss black finish accentuates the distinctive Qi4D geometry and aerodynamic shaping, creating a bold presence at address while highlighting the engineering that defines TaylorMade’s fastest, most fittable driver family.

Re-engineered head profiles optimised through computational fluid dynamics simulations reduce drag for improved clubhead speed. The improved bulge and roll design promotes tighter spin dispersion across vertical impact locations on the face, delivering more consistent performance when contact moves up or down from center.

The Qi4D Shadowfall driver features four Trajectory Adjustment System (TAS) weights (9g x 2/4g x 2) that allows golfers to adjust flight and spin. The Qi4D Max Shadowfall driver employs two TAS weights (13g/4g), and the Qi4D LS Shadowfall driver comes with two TAS weights (15g/4g).

The 4° loft sleeve enables loft, lie, and face angle modifications for precise trajectory optimization. REAX shafts—developed through analysis of over 11 million shots across 20+ years—allow golfers to match shaft profile to their unique rotation rate for optimised performance.

Model-specific Specs:

Qi4D: 9.0° RH and LH 10.5° RH and LH (custom only), stock shaft is REAX MR (mid rotation) 50 Blue in stiff and regular flex, stock grip Golf Pride Z-Grip Black/Silver 0.600 52g

Qi4D Max: 9.0° RH only, 10.5° RH only, stock shaft is REAX MR (mid rotation) 50 Blue in stiff and regular flex, stock grip is Golf Pride Z-Grip Black/Silver 0.600 58g

Qi4D LS: 9.0° RH only, 10.5° RH only, stock shaft is REAX MR (mid rotation) 60 Blue in stiff flex, stock grip Golf Pride Z-Grip Black/Silver 0.600 52g

In addition to stock shafts, golfers will be able to shop TaylorMade’s full suite of REAX and custom shafts at TaylorMadeGolf.co.uk.

All Qi4D Shadowfall drivers will sell for 719€.

Qi4D SHADOWFALL FAIRWAY WOODS: WORLD-CLASS VERSATILITY IN A BOLD BLACK PACKAGE

Shadowfall fairways extend the collection’s distinctive high-gloss black finish across 3-wood (15°), 5-wood (18°), and 7-wood (21°) options. The premium dark aesthetic highlights the fairway’s aerodynamic profile and advanced shaping, creating a unified look from tee shots to shots off the deck from any lie.

Performance comes through adjustability with an 8g TAS weight that allows golfers to adjust flight, spin and swing weight. The 4° loft sleeve, which allows for customisation of loft, lie and face angle. Cut-through Speed Pocket technology protects ball speed on strikes below the face centre. Twist Face features corrective face curvature designed to keep mishits online. Multimaterial construction maximises performance by increasing discretionary weight.

Specs: 

Qi4D Shadowfall fairways are available in 3-wood (15°), 5-wood (18°) and 7-wood (21°) in RH and LH (custom only). The stock shaft is the REAX FW 65S, and 55R/A. The stock grip is the Golf Pride Z-Grip Black/Silver 0.600 52g.

Like Qi4D Shadowfall drivers, golfers will be able to shop the complete REAX shaft line as well as custom shafts at TaylorMadeGolf.co.uk.

Qi4D Shadowfall fairway woods will sell for 429€.

P·790 DESIGNER SERIES SHADOWFALL IRONS: LUXURIOUS DARK FINISH MEETS FORGED PERFORMANCE

P·790 Shadowfall irons showcase TaylorMade’s players distance iron in a dark, luxurious finish that transforms the confidence-inspiring profile into a premium statement piece. The refined aesthetic accentuates the sleek lines and Tour-inspired shaping that have made P·790 a favorite among discerning players, while the dark finish creates visual distinction that stands apart from the competition.

Performance comes through in the form of forged feel and strategic engineering. Individual head optimisation paired with SpeedFoam Air delivers best-in-class feel at impact. The ultra-high-strength 4340M forged face material enables thinner face construction for increased ball speed while maintaining the soft, responsive sensation players demand. FLTD CG technology positions the centre of gravity strategically—lower in long irons for enhanced launch, higher in scoring clubs for more consistent spin and control.

Specs

P·790 Shadowfall irons are available in 4-PW or 5-PW, AW in RH (LH custom only). The stock shaft is the Nippon Modus Tour 105 Luxury Black in stiff and regular flex. Golfers can also custom order the UST Recoil DART HDC Blackout in 80 S and 80 R . The stock grip is the Golf Pride Z-Grip Plus2.

P·790 Shadowfall irons will sell for 1,849€.

SHADOWFALL APPAREL: TOTAL BLACKOUT DESIGN

The Shadowfall Collection extends to apparel with monochromatic design across two essential pieces:

Shadowfall Hoodie: Premium all-black construction features TaylorMade branding down the left sleeve with French Terry-Polyester blend fabric (55%/45%). Fleece-lined construction provides warmth for cooler conditions while maintaining the refined aesthetic that defines the collection.

The Shadowfall hoodie is available in small, medium, large and extra-large sizes. It’s priced at 109.99€.

Shadowfall T-Shirt: Total blackout design with TaylorMade logo placement on side torso. French Terry-Polyester fabric composition (55%/45%) delivers comfortable everyday wear with durable construction.

The Shadowfall T-shirt also comes in small, medium, large and extra-large sizes and will sell for 59.99€.

Putters, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – New Spider Tour Series with five unique models including the iconic Spider Tour and Spider Tour X putters

September 19, 2023 – With unmatched stability and an unmistakable shape, for nearly two decades Spider putters have been claiming major championships and stacking victories across professional tours globally.

Today, TaylorMade Golf revitalises the essence of this iconic franchise with the release of the Spider Tour Series – a family of high MOI putters with five unique models featuring renowned technologies such as True Path Alignment, Pure Roll and TSS weighting.

Within a design that will always be synonymous with stability, each Spider Tour Series putter is crafted using multi-material construction to push weight low and back in the head for high levels of inertia. Engineers created superstructures that maintain the shape of a classic Spider Tour, then utilised thin wall undercuts to remove excess weight.

A steel wireframe construction allows engineers to better control weight distribution and CG location. The suite of putters includes various CG positions to fit a wide variety of putting styles, while also arming custom fitters with an array of options.

Underneath the hood is a new HYBRAR Echo Damper that is also seen in TaylorMade distance irons such as Stealth and Stealth HD. It is placed directly behind the face to dampen unwanted vibrations, delivering premium sound and feel on every putt.

With the Spider Tour Series, TaylorMade is utilising the same Pure Roll insert that rose to prominence with the original Spider X putter. Moulded from a Surlyn material, it delivers a soft yet responsive feel with grooves that are angled 45° downward to help impart better topspin and an end-over-end roll.

The Gunmetal PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finish not only enhances the aesthetics of the putters but also provides enhanced durability and a sense of luxury that elevates the overall quality of the family. The PVD coating creates a robust barrier that helps protect the surface from the rigors of regular use and exposure to various environmental elements.

“Spider putters have long been synonymous with stability, which directly translates to high-MOI performance. The unconventional shape creates a more stable platform that protects ball speed on mishits and delivers a more consistent roll across the face. Our new Spider Tour Series maintains our iconic technological features, including True Path and Pure Roll, while also delivering a range of shapes and CG locations to match a variety of putting styles,” says Brian Bazzel, VP of Product Creation of the company.

In this new series there are different weight options with different centre of gravity placements to help different golfers’ putt better.

SPIDER TOUR

Spider Tour is one of the most recognisable shapes in the putting world, accounting for dozens of victories on professional tours across the globe. TaylorMade is breathing new life into the company’s most popular creations with enhanced materials, a new colour and refined weight distribution.

The Spider Tour model has a CG location of 35mm from the face, 5,700 MOI and 29° of toe hang on a small slant hosel. Spider Tour has over 700 MOI more than the previous model.

SPIDER TOUR X

Made popular as the putter of choice for Rory McIlroy, the Spider X shape has been one of the most sought-after in the franchise. It was originally designed to convert players who loved blade putters into mallets, using a compact shape and modern look to deliver a more blade-like feel with the added benefits of alignment and forgiveness that are incumbent to Spider putters.

TSS weights in Spider Tour X are placed farther forward, generating more face rotation and a CG placement that is 33mm from the face compared to 35mm of Spider Tour. This model has MOI of 5,000 and 30° of toe hang on the small slant hosel.

SPIDER TOUR Z

Spider Tour Z is one of two new shapes in this line-up, paying homage to the Spider Tour with a wing shaped back. The perimeter of this putter sits low in the ground to provide a comfortable feeling at address and help frame the golf ball for easy alignment. TSS weights on this model are placed very far forward to encourage more face rotation and a blade-like feel.

It has a CG location of 29mm from the face, 5,050 MOI and 29° of toe hang with a small slant hosel.

SPIDER TOUR V

Spider Tour V eliminates the wing structure and creates a more modern streamlined look. It is the smallest putter in shape and size in the line-up, providing the most rotation of the bunch.

Spider Tour V has a CG location of 27mm from the face, MOI of 4,900 and 32° of toe hang with a small slant hosel.

SPIDER TOUR S

The Spider Tour S is a larger version of the original Spider. The putter head is 3mm longer and 8mm wider in comparison. Spider Tour S is constructed at a heavier head weight and only offered at 35” and 38” lengths, with both featuring counterbalance grips for maximum stability.

Spider Tour S has a CG location of 38mm from the face, 6,063 MOI and is face balanced. It will be available in Spring of 2024.

Spider Tour series putters are available at retail on 27th of October with an RRP of €399. All models come equipped with a white/yellow SuperStroke GT 1.0 Pistol grip and gloss black PVD KBS shaft.

Drivers, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – Welcome to the Carbonwood age! A new historic technological innovation with the Carbon Face Stealth drivers

January 4, 2022 – TaylorMade Golf builds on its history of groundbreaking innovation with the introduction of the new Stealth Plus, Stealth and Stealth HD Carbonwood drivers.

Titanium has been the cornerstone of driver technology for the last 20 years, but even at the beginning of the Titanium driver era, TaylorMade engineers knew that every material had its limit. The future of driver performance begins with the one-of-one 60X Carbon Twist Face – comprised of 60 layers of carbon sheets strategically arranged to optimise energy transfer.

Over two decades of research and development, TaylorMade pushed the boundaries and now created a new era of driver technology with 60X Carbon Twist Face drivers. Welcome to the Carbonwood age!

“In the mid-2000’s, our Research team developed an understanding that the weight of the face can affect impact efficiency, more specifically, the lighter the face, the more efficient the impact and the better the ball speed. We realised Titanium faces could only take us so far and carbon would be the face material of the future.”

“This breakthrough design of a lightweight carbon face in Stealth, has created a whole new starting line, a new era of drivers, a new threshold of performance and a new platform for more innovation,” says Brian Bazzel, Vice President Product Creation of the company.

WHY CARBON?

The goal of any new technology is to create a measurable performance improvement for TaylorMade customers. The 60 layers of carbon fibre in Stealth help do exactly that by providing more speed. The red carbon face – yes, the face is red – delivers a higher COR and more precise face geometry through a lighter, but larger face.

TaylorMade engineers took advantage of the lightweight carbon material by creating a 26g face, which is 40 percent lighter than a titanium face of equivalent size. Because of that weight savings, the face size of Stealth is 11 percent larger than SIM2 and SIM2 Max drivers and nearly 20 percent larger than the 2020 SIM driver.

The weight savings and larger face size made possible by the 60X Carbon Twist Face delivered a stunning ball speed increase during player testing when comparing Stealth Plus and Stealth to the 2021 SIM2 and SIM2 Max drivers at better player swing speeds, unlocking a whole new level of driver performance.

NANOTEXTURE FACE TECHNOLOGY

TaylorMade’s 20-year journey to change the face of golf was made possible by an innovative nanotexture cover that sits on top of the 60 layers of carbon. The nanotexture cover is made from a thin polyurethane layer that creates a strong and flexible striking surface which serves to optimise distance based on improving launch conditions in both dry and wet conditions.

This revolutionary technology creates the face texture needed to produce the ideal amount of friction between the face and the ball at impact to reduce spin at impact in dry conditions. The nanotexture face also features full-face scorelines designed to provide improved spin performance in wet conditions.

“The technological innovation of our nanotexture technology brings the entire face together and was a key to making this driver a reality. Without this revolutionary cover design, we could not have achieved the launch and spin performance required to extract the optimal performance in dry as well as wet conditions.”

“Once we added the nanotexture technology to the grooves, we were able to unlock the full performance of a carbon face,” says Tomo Bystedt, Product Creation, Carbonwood Drivers of the company.

The combination of the nanotexture cover, Twist Face and TaylorMade’s ultra-flexible Thru-Slot Speed Pocket was engineered to produce forgiveness on strikes across the face.

SHAPED FOR SPEED 

Despite a larger face, clubhead speed does not decline with Stealth. The asymmetric Inertia Generator creates advanced aerodynamics at the most critical phase of the swing – from the downswing to the moment right before impact.

This breakthrough design optimises clubhead speed, while also allowing additional weight to be placed at the rear of the club to encourage higher MOI, high launch and improved forgiveness.

HOW DOES IT SOUND?

Based on experience with older carbon headed clubs in the marketplace, it might expect the Stealth family of drivers to suffer from a muted and low-energy sound profile. However, through fine-tuned acoustic precision, engineers have been able to create a bright and powerful sound and feel profile that is true to the high standards of TaylorMade drivers through recent years.

The sound and feel of Stealth has had an even better average sentiment rating in player testing compared to SIM2 and Tour player feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

THE 20-YEAR JOURNEY

TaylorMade’s engineering and research and development teams began exploring carbon faces in 2000, with the first prototype created in 2003 featuring a titanium cover. Six years later, research into a polymer cover began in hopes to improve launch conditions.

Then in 2012, a small-scale composite face production facility was built to support the 2013 launch of the limited-edition Japan-only Gloire Reserve driver. It served as a sign of readiness for this design platform and the progress of TaylorMade engineering.

Prototype production continued for the next three years, while titanium advancements still outpaced carbon faces at that time. In 2016, new manufacturing techniques led to the first development of a 60-layer carbon face. Work on these new Stealth models began in earnest in 2018, some 18 years after the process began.

In 2019, a state-of-the-art plant was commissioned and completed in 2021 to set the gold standard for high-volume production of composite parts. Every part of the process has been streamlined to reduce waste and increase efficiency. Simultaneously, additional facilities were constructed to bond the fully finished faces into castings.

We arrive at today, 20 years later. TaylorMade ushers in the Carbonwood age.

“The 20-year journey to today is a reflection of the engineering and R&D teams at TaylorMade that never gave up on the idea of a carbon face driver. The technical challenges in creating a driver face with a new material are vast.”

How do we take a “space age” material known for its high strength & lightweight properties, but not inherently designed for impact applications, and make it into a driver face that delivers revolutionary ball speed?”

Through two decades of work our team was able to solve various hurdles and create numerous technological innovations in order to bring today’s most advanced and precise driver to market,” says Todd Beach, Senior Vice President R&D and Engineering of the company.

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON OF STEALTH DRIVERS

STEALTH PLUS: Because of weight savings from the 60X Carbon Twist Face, engineers were able to incorporate the use of a 10g sliding weight track designed to help golfers control shot shape by shifting mass on the sole to create desired ball flight. Stealth Plus is designed to be the lowest spinning driver in the family.

STEALTH: Stealth benefits from the weight savings of the 60x Carbon Twist Face by more weight to be positioned low and deep in the head. This adds 15% more MOI when compared to Stealth Plus and is designed to provide 200-300 rpms more spin.

STEALTH HD: Often, standard draw bias designs promote a right-to-left ball flight at the expense of forgiveness. By utilising the weight savings from the 60X Carbon Twist Face and shifting the Inertia Generator closer to the heel, we’re able to maintain draw-bias while creating the highest MOI in the Stealth family of drivers. While providing additional draw-bias, the Stealth HD will have similar back-spin performance to Stealth. 

STEALTH WOMEN’S: The Stealth Women’s driver combines the technology of Stealth HD in a slightly lighter head weight and with a unique colourway and aesthetic. It maintains the high MOI head design for easy, high-launch with a touch of draw.

SPECIFICATIONS, AVAILABILITY & PRICING

Stealth Plus, Stealth and Stealth HD drivers will be available for preorder on January 4 and at retail on February 4, 2022.

Stealth Plus has an RRP of 649€ and will be offered in 8º, 9º and 10.5º lofts. Shaft offerings include Project X HZRDUS Smoke RDX Red 60 and Mitsubishi’s Kai’li White 60, with numerous custom shaft options available at no additional cost. They come stock with Lamkin’s Crossline Black/Red grip (50g).

Stealth and Stealth HD have an RRP of 629€ and will be offered in 9º, 10.5º and 12º lofts. Stealth shaft offerings include Fujikura Ventus Red 5, with numerous custom shaft options available at no additional cost. Stealth HD shaft offerings include Fujikura Air Speeder 45, with numerous custom shaft options available at no additional cost. Both models come stock with Lamkin’s Crossline Black/Red grip.

Women’s stock offerings include the Aldila Ascent Ladies 45 shaft and the Lamkin Ladies Sonar grip. With an elevated focus on customisation and club fitting, women golfers can find a full array of components, including lightweight shafts, grips and more at TaylorMadeGolf.eu.

The custom process allows to build the ideal club for any golfer – it’s not women’s equipment or men’s equipment, but the right equipment.

Irons, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – The next generation of forged progression arrives with the new P760 iron

October 15, 2018 – TaylorMade Golf have announced today the extension of its globally successful P700 series irons with the introduction of P760, a progressive forged players iron designed to give better players specifically what they want and need through the entire set, alleviating the possible consideration of combination sets.

The P760 pulls performance technologies and shaping attributes from its Tour-proven siblings, the P750, P770 and P790. The P760 irons effectively replace the P750 and P770 in the TaylorMade lineup, giving players the performance of P750 in the short irons and improves on the performance of P770 in the long irons. The P760’s progressive design is individually optimised for each club from 3-iron to AW to provide Tour-caliber shaping and performance.

“With P760, we set out to design a players iron for Tour-level competition, combining all the elements that are most desirable to the better golfer. The P760’s progressive set shaping enables short irons to be compact and precise while the long irons take on a hollow construction, injected with our revolutionary SpeedFoam. P760 is designed to inspire confidence whether you’re attacking pins from short range or sticking greens from long range,” says Brian Bazzel, VP of Product Creation, TaylorMade Golf.

FORGED MULTI-MATERIAL CONSTRUCTION

The progressive design of P760 goes beyond shaping; specifically, the iron’s construction. The P760’s unique iron design transitions from a single piece 1025CS forged head in the 8-PW/AW to a 1025CS forged hollow body with SUS630 face material injected with the revolutionary SpeedFoam in the 3-7 irons. The hollow cavity construction (3-7 irons) produces consistent distance while adding forgiveness to maintain optimised gapping throughout the set, while the one-piece forged construction in the 8 through AW results in remarkable feel and shot shaping capability for better ball strikers.

PROGRESSIVE PLAYER-PREFERRED SHAPING

Shaping is one of the most critical phases in the development of a new iron, and TaylorMade’s engineers set out to create a progressive set that met even the most discerning players’ demands. Head size, offset and lofts have been meticulously detailed to engineer specifically what better players demand for precision shot making.

The sole geometry of the P760 has also been redesigned with a chamfered leading edge that delivers a cleaner entry into the turf, activating the club’s bounce without the risk of digging, all within a square look at address.

SPEEDFOAM TECHNOLOGY

SpeedFoam technology, which was first introduced in the highly popular P790 irons last autumn, has been incorporated into the P760’s 3-7 irons. SpeedFoam serves the dual purpose of generating ball speed while also dampening vibrations to create optimal sound and feel. SpeedFoam is injected into the club head in liquid form before expanding within the club, providing increased face support while maintaining the soft, solid sound and feel that golfers prefer.

  • Availability: From 2nd of November, 3-PW with True Temper Dynamic Gold 120 (S300, X100) shafts and Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 grips.
  • RRP: 1,399€ for a 7-piece set.
Drivers, Golf & Technology, Interview, TaylorMade Golf

Interview – Brian Bazzel explains what is behind the Twist Face Technology of the M3 & M4 drivers

February 20, 2018 – Some weeks ago MyGolfWay.com had the chance to speak, in exclusivity for the Spanish market, with Brian Bazzel, Vice-President of Product Creation of TaylorMade Golf, about what is behind the new Twist Face Technology.

For over 18 years, Bazzel has played an integral role in developing breakthrough technologies for the company, including Moveable Weight, Speed Pockets, Multi-Material Designs, and now the Twist Face, brand’s latest game-changing innovation.

Making golf easier and more enjoyable for more players has been a constant for the company, which created the first metalwood in 1979. TaylorMade has done it yet again, pushing the boundaries of driving potential with the Twist Face technology with the new M3 and M4 drivers. This is a radical departure from traditional driver-face design, engineered to correct for typical miss-hit trends that involve all levels of golfers.

The beginning of a breakthrough named Twist Face technology started after studying some compelling data from the R+D Team. With the thousands of human swings captured, they were able to understand more exactly than in the past, what happens to the golf ball at impact. Then they discovered that the traditional “bulge-and-roll” driver face wasn’t performing with humans the same way it does in robot testing. There was an opportunity here to explore a solution that could correct for it.

Everyone miss-hits golf shots – average golfers frequently do, and also the best players in the world. And the trends for all are surprisingly similar, from low-heel to high-toe in 90% of strikes. Studying the face angle relative to the path of the club, the TaylorMade design team understood why the traditional bulge-and-roll wasn’t working. As a result, they reshaped the driver faces to account the swing tendencies, engineering the Twist Face, with more loft and a more open face in the high-toe area to increase spin and help minimize the toe-hook. Then, they reduced loft and slightly closed the face in the low-heel to help minimize the spinny heel-slice that so many golfers battle against.

Twist Face is designed to ensure that you hit it straighter. That, combined with the new Hammerhead slot, provides golfers with the best mix of accuracy, speed and forgiveness.

MYGOLFWAY: Would you consider the new M3 & M4 drivers an evolution of the M family of 2017, or a new product construction design?

BRIAN BAZZEL: I believe the M3 & M4 is a revolutionary change from the M1 & M2, and the main reason for that is the new Twist Face. The bulge and roll, the curvature of the face, hasn’t really changed for a hundred years. In the Twist Face we actually discover how to provide more accurate shots, straighter shots, for golfers of all levels, based on the data that we have now, based on how the golfers actually present the club at impact when they are miss-hitting it. So the new Twist Face is designed to bring balls back to centreline when they’ve been hit off centre.

MGW: Can you explain the origin of the idea of the Twist Face as a game-changer?

BB: The bulge, in 1988, was the first convex face. Now over the last ten to fifteen years we have been able to study golfers swings, and we’ve looked at more driver swings that really any other golf company in the history of golf. And now we can study that to a degree that we never could before, and what we have discovered is that shots that are hit from different zones, and most shots are hit from the low heel to high toe on the face, are not averaging out to being on the centreline, which the curvature of the face is supposed to be designed to do. And now with that insight, and knowing what golfers are doing to create their shots, we can figure out what the right curvature is, in order to help those shots when they are miss-hit. And this is what Twist Face is doing.

And so the discovery process which happened three or four years ago was obviously an exciting moment for us, and now its even more exciting as we’ve finally brought the product to life.

MGW: How do you think the Twist Face technology can help the amateur player to be straighter?

BB: We are going to reduce more side spin on shots for amateur golfers, and by doing this we are going to help them to go straighter. We can’t solve all the problems for golfers. I wish I could! They have straight-path and face-angle challenges, but what we can do is make them the best they can possibly be, and I think this is what Twist Face is doing.

So custom fitting still is hugely important, and the M3 driver allows you to do that more than any other driver, but the Twist Face is going to make it a lot straighter for them.

MGW: Twist Face, Hammerhead slot, Y-Track, Geocustic technologies… but personally, what you like most about the new drivers?

BB: Honestly, I am most proud of the Twist Face, because, again, when I saw the data four years ago it was one of those moments when you say… oh my Gosh! That is going to be game changing for every golfer, when can we get it done, how do we solve it, and its now finally come to life. If this Twist Face wasn’t on this product, what I see in the Y-Track and the connection with the Y-Track, which was also very difficult to do, is something that I am very excited for, for the fitters, but nothing really trumps the Twist Face.

MGW: Do you remember what happened when the drivers first came into the hands of Dustin Johnson, Jason Day, Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, Tiger…

BB: In fact we have five of the Top-12 players, and I had the chance to work with them, and they fell in love with the product immediately. When we showed Tiger the new product, and he doesn’t switch very often, he showed a good appreciation of we’ve done, and he’s put the product into play as well.

MGW: When Jon Rahm tested it for the first time, do you remember what he said?

BB: Yes, I did spend some time with him. We all agree that Jon is not only a great person to work with, but his reaction to the new product was amazing. He fell in love with the M4, and I’m quite happy if he chooses the M3 or the M4, whichever one works for him. That was the one he felt he could hit all of his shots with, because it felt more accurate to him.

You know he hits a lot of drivers, and he is an aggressive player, and for him it’s important to have a driver that is very accurate. It’s like saying ‘I’d rather to be closer to the hole in the trees than laying further back and behind the trees’. I think the Twist Face is going to help him to go further and straighter.

MGW: What do you think about a Spanish player such as Jon Rahm being involved in the company? Is he like the relay to Sergio Garcia?

BB: No, with Sergio was spectacular, I loved working with Sergio, and with Jon… I got to know him over the last year and a half, and he is an incredible person. Very genuine, a great storyteller, very articulate about what he sees in the product and how he plays golf. I enjoy every moment I am with him!

He is the second in the world, in just one year! The Majors are waiting for him.

With no doubt, like the Tour players, average golfers who play the M3 or M4 drivers will have a distinct advantage over any other driver thanks to the Twist Face technology.

Golf Companies, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – Brian Bazzel, appointed as Vice President of Product Creation of the company

September 27, 2017 – TaylorMade Golf has announced it has appointed Brian Bazzel, an influential figure within TaylorMade’s product creation teams for the last seventeen years, as its new Vice President of Product Creation.

Bazzel, whose product creations have earned the highest accolades in the industry and are played by the best players in the world, will lead product strategy and development efforts for all of TaylorMade’s product lines, including metalwoods, irons, balls, putters, wedges and accessories.

One of the most well-respected product experts in the industry, Bazzel began his career at TaylorMade in 2000 as a member of the company’s research & development team, where he played a critical role in developing the MATT fitting system in addition to SelectFit, considered the ‘most comprehensive fitting system in the industry’ at its launch in 2007.

In subsequent years, his role has shifted into the product creation sector and has since been responsible for the efforts of a variety of TaylorMade’s most prominent and successful product lines, including the highly-popular Burner 2.0, RocketBladez and Tour Preferred irons lines as well as the widely acclaimed and most winning drivers on the PGA TOUR over the last two years, the M1 & M2.

Concurrently, succeeding Bazzel as Senior Director of Product Creation for metalwoods is Tomo Bystedt, whom like Bazzel, has vast experience with many of the company’s product lines which include putters, wedges and most recently, leading iron creation, a position he’s held since 2013 and whose most notable products include RSi, PSi and most recently, the P700 Series. Bystedt, who first joined TaylorMade in 2006, will now lead the company’s efforts in the development and creation of all metalwoods.

In his new role, Bazzel will now oversee one of the most prominent product creation teams in the golf industry, which, in addition to Bystedt and the metalwoods team, includes Bill Price (putters & wedges) and Mike Fox (golf balls & accessories). Bazzel and his team will report directly to CEO David Abeles.

“For five years, Brian has been the driving force behind our metalwoods product creation team, leading to groundbreaking products that have invigorated the industry. His vision has helped position TaylorMade as the industry leader in metalwoods innovation and performance, and it is my great pleasure to welcome him to his new role as VP of Product Creation. There’s no doubt in my mind that under his guidance, the TaylorMade brand will continue to see exceptional growth and forge a lasting position as an industry leader across all product categories”, said David Abeles.

Drivers, Equipment, Fairway Woods, TaylorMade Golf

TaylorMade Golf – AeroBurner Mini Driver: driver alternative or 3-wood replacement

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March 13, 2015 – Completing the new AeroBurner metalwood franchise of TaylorMade Golf for 2015, the AeroBurner Mini Driver is a golf club engineered for players who commonly drive with their 3-wood. It has a 253cc clubhead equipped with a 43.5” shaft, designed to deliver even more speed and forgiveness than the SLDR Mini Driver.

TAY_12506-R15-Web-Banner-(300px-x-250px)-ENGLISH_v2The Mini Driver is a new category from TaylorMade, delivering golfers 2 club options in 1; a driver alternative or a 3-wood replacement.

Many of the same features engineered into the other AeroBurner metalwoods are now part of this new category. Like all of the AeroBurner metalwoods, the AeroBurner Mini Driver is “Made of Speed”.

Check out Hank Haney’s explanation of how the AeroBurner Mini Driver can help golfers of all abilities!

Taking everything they’ve learned from the development of SLDR Mini Driver, engineers have taken AeroBurner Mini Driver to the next level, designing a product with a new aerodynamic shape, shallow face, raised centre crown and incorporated a new hosel fin, created to maximise clubhead speed during the downswing. With emphasis placed on low-forward CG, Mini Driver delivers driver-like launch conditions off the tee with remarkable accuracy.

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Additionally, similar to the entire AeroBurner metalwood family, Mini Driver features the biggest open channel Speed Pocket of any TaylorMade metalwood in company history, increasing the size of the sweet spot while reducing spin. A larger hittable face area and decreased overall size promote improved playability in a confidence-inspiring shape.

“The SLDR Mini Driver captivated golfers on all skill levels by delivering better 3-wood performance from the tee,” said Brian Bazzel, TaylorMade’s Senior Director of Metalwood Creation. “With AeroBurner, we’ve now designed a metalwood that delivers even more speed and forgiveness to this new, popular club type.”

Aesthetically, engineers developed the crown of AeroBurner Mini Driver with a new matte white finish, a black PVD face and linear crown graphic, features implemented to facilitate easy, accurate face alignment. The TP model is designed with a longer hosel, flatter lie angle and more open face angle.

TECHNICAL FEATURES

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  • Available in two models: Standard and TP.
  • Lofts AeroBurner Mini-Driver Standard: 12º, 14º, 16º
  • Lofts AreoBurner Mini-Driver TP: 12º, 14º
  • New aerodynamic shape with a shallow face, raised centre crown and new hosel fin
  • New Speed Pocket increases the size of the sweet spot and reduces spin
  • Improved playability due to its larger hittable face area and decreased overall size (volume of 253cc)
  • New matte White finish, black PVD face, and linear AeroBurner Crown graphic make alignment easy
  • Built with the new lightweight Matrix Speed RUL-Z 60 shaft (X, S, R, M flex) and TaylorMade Speed grip
  • TP model designed with a longer hosel, flatter lie, and more open face angle
  • TP model built with new Matrix Ozik White Tie 70X4 shaft (flex X, S, M) and new Lamkin UTx grip
  • Several aftermarket shafts and grips available to customize the AeroBurner
  • RRP: Standard, 279 €; TP, 349 €.
  • Availability: At retail on March 27th.
Hybrids / Rescues

Adams Golf – New Red Hybrid helps golfers to hit better shots more consistently

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March 1, 2015 – Adams Golf, makers of the No.1 hybrid on the PGA Tour since 2008, today announced the arrival of the new Red Hybrid. The benchmark product in the Adams stable, Red delivers players of all abilities an appealing, confidence-inspiring shape with proven performance. Red’s versatility delivers on what golfers need, when and where they need it. Shot-shaping properties make it easy to find optimal ball flight (draw, fade, low, high), while sole, crown and head features deliver easy launch conditions for Tour players and amateurs alike.

Red Hybrid incorporates several new advancements into a clean and elegant package, all designed to help the golfer hit better shots more consistently. Adams engineers found new ways to innovate in the hybrid category, adding features that allow Red Hybrid to meet the demands of golfers everywhere. Many of the core attributes were created following critical Tour player feedback, an integral part of any club development process. The result was Red, featuring a beautiful, playable shape without sacrificing shot-shaping options and playability.

All in, the recipe for Red Hybrid is simple:

  • Adams has bucked the trend set by many of today’s hybrids, which in the endless search for distance, have grown larger and larger in size. Instead, engineers placed the focus on versatility, utilizing a smaller head (95cc) that can handle a wider variety of difficult shots and make them easier to hit from all conditions.
  • Adams Golf’ patented upside-down head design brings the CG lower, promoting easier launch and greater demand from all lies, increasing playability and inspiring player confidence.

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Together, these two features produce an attractive head with Adams’ classic distinctive toe-shape that is long, forgiving and easy to launch. But, there’s more:

  • To keep ball speed fast, even on off-center hits, Red Hybrid utilizes Adams’ trusted and proven Velocity Slot Technology on the sole and Ghost Slot Technology on the crown.
  • As an extra benefit to those seeking maximum shot-shape options, three transferrable weights on the sole (one 25g & two 2g) can be configured to promote the flight that works best.

The result of these ingredients is Red Hybrid: an aesthetically pleasing hybrid that will work for the golfer to make the game’s difficult shots easier.

“Adams Red is golf’s next great hybrid from our company,” said Brian Bazzel, Senior Director, Product Creation of Adams Golf. “To be able to pack so much into such a beautiful shape and deliver performance, I was blown away seeing and hitting it for the first time. After seeing Red in testing with players of varying ability, we’re confident it will resonate not only with amateurs, but also meet and exceed expectations for the best players in the world.” 

Adams Golf Tour staffer Aaron Baddeley tested the Red Hybrid in early January, raving about its aesthetics and playability and foresees putting into his bag in the short future. “Red is the total package,” said Aaron Baddeley, three-time PGA Tour winner and Adams Golf brand ambassador. “It’s consistently long, it’s versatile and I’ve never felt more confident and comfortable with a hybrid in my hands.”

ADAMS GOLF RED HYBRID

  • Lofts: 16°, 18°, 20°, 23° y 26°.
  • Availability: At retail the 3rd April.
  • MSRP: 209 €.