Virginia Golfer Jan / Feb 2020 | Page 40

Equipment MUST-HAVES FOR YOUR BAG IN 2020 Want to play better golf this year? Work all you want at your swing and you can improve. But perhaps an easier and less time- consuming route you can take: Add some of the latest gear into your bag. It can instantly take your game to another level. by SCOTT KRAMER COBRA KING SZ Irons If you’ve been waiting for new irons, give Cobra’s KING SZ a strong look. The company officially targets them at 10-to-20-handicaps, but better players will love these, too. Heck, Rickie Fowler helped develop them. Each clubhead has golf’s first-ever carbon fiber topline in an iron, which helps save weight to lower the CG and get your shots up. In the rear, a channel helps speed up the clubhead while quickly getting shots airborne; a medallion dampens vibration and is backed by aluminum foam tape that furthers softens feel and sound. $899/graphite, $799/steel, cobragolf.com TITLEIST TruFeel Balls If you’re looking for an outstanding yet inexpensive ball, try Titleist’s TruFeel. Officially billed as the company’s softest-feeling ball, it’s specifically made to consistently give you longer distance and excellent control. Its new core and aerodynamics aim to add length to your tee shots, fairway woods and long irons. The ball’s proprietary cover feels ultra-soft while yielding shot control around the green. “We continue to see competitive products that sacrifice distance or short-game spin in order to gain a softer feel,” says Michael Mahoney, vice president of golf ball marketing at Titleist. “TruFeel strikes the perfect balance of extremely soft feel and all-around performance.” $23/dozen, titleist.com FOOTJOY ContourFLX Gloves FootJoy’s ContourFLX glove gives you a soft feel and comfortable fit. “We’ve identified key enhancements to provide improved softness, fit and excellent durability, all while maintaining a price that will appeal to all golfers,” says Maria Bonzagni, senior director of Acushnet Golf gloves and FootJoy gear. This glove dons a cabretta palm along with a breathable material on the back of the hand that delivers a consistent fit and extra flexibility. Plus it has a mesh along the back of the hand so that your hand won’t sweat as much. $17, footjoy.com 38 V I R G I N I A G O L F E R | J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 0 vsga.org