PING Tyne H mallet
PING’s popular Sigma G putter series now includes the highly
forgiving Tyne H mallet. One of its best features is the proprietary
multiple-piece True Roll face technology that includes Pebax
Elastomer, which is a material commonly used in the soles of high-
performance athletic shoes. “The uniquely softer feel and satisfying
sound come from the combination of high-grade elastomer and fully
machined aerospace-grade aluminum over the entire face,” says
John A. Solheim, PING’s chairman and CEO. “With improved ball-
speed consistency and forgiveness, golfers will make more putts and
gain confidence from any distance, and that’s going to bring down
scores.” $215. pinggolf.com
NIKE Lunar Control Vapor 2 shoes
Nike may not make golf equipment anymore, but
the company is still churning out golf shoes. And
for 2018, its cleatless Lunar Control Vapor 2 ($175)
is even more comfortable than the original. Rory
McIlroy will wear this shoe in competition,
claiming that the initial version two years
ago exceeded his expectations on
comfort. Gentry Humphrey, Nike’s vice
president of profile sports footwear, says
that technology provides “maximum ground
traction while allowing the outsole to articulate
in a motion that mimics the natural movement of the
human foot.” $179. nike.com/us/en_us/c/golf
XXIO X driver
For the past couple of years, we’ve seen new clubs emerge that
help golfers with slower swing speeds generate more velocity. Such
is the case with XXIO’s new X driver that features a lightweight shaft
which reduces forces on your body during the swing, helping you
stay on balance and make more efficient contact with the ball. “This
is lightweight and easy to swing,” says Chuck Thiry, vice president
of XXIO (pronounced zek-si-oh) North America. “Each club features
custom-made shafts and grips, ensuring that every component
actively helps moderate swing speed golfers get more distance and
control. The shaft and head technologies in this club will actually
help moderate swing speed golfers improve their swing with more
consistency and a tighter impact pattern.” $650. xxiousa.com
vsga.org
J A N UA RY / F E B R UA RY 2 0 18 | V I R G I N I A G O L F E R
47