Virginia Golfer Jul / Aug 2016 | Page 40

Equipment MAKING THE JUMP SWAPPING OUT GOLF EQUIPMENT is like hopping onto a moving carousel: There’s no wrong time to do it. You just need to make the jump and have faith you’ll land gracefully. And in the case of switching gear midseason, you can be confident that these new products will help improve your game. by SCOTT KRAMER TAYLORMADE Phenom junior clubs Sets are offered in various sizes. Each set is made to help kids achieve proper swing fundamentals through optimized lengths, weights, grip sizes and lofts. The 400cc titanium driver delivers distance, forgiveness and easy launch; the stainless steel fairway wood has a low profile, low-CG design; the steel Rescue club is versatile; the perimeter-weighted irons and wedge feature a generous offset and multi-functional sole; and the putter is a face-balanced, heel-toe weighted, center-shafted mallet with easy alignment and a soft, solid impact feel. (taylormadegolf.com, Price: $249/K40 six-piece set for ages 5-8, $299/K50 eight-piece set for ages 9-12) 38 V I R G I N I A G O L F E R | J U LY /A U G U ST 2 0 1 6 The brand’s 360 Face Cup in the longer irons boost ball speed from anywhere contact is made with the face. The set’s shorter irons feature a face plate that enhances feel and distance control. The set is designed to be playable, and sports a really elegant-looking satin black PVD finish. Each clubhead undergoes a precise quadruple net forging and precision milling process, so that impact feels extra soft. The progressive offset, sole widths, CG height and notch weighting provide a balance of ball flight, playability, forgiveness and control. (callawaygolf.com, Price: $1,499/set with graphite shafts, $1,299 steel) vsga.org PHOTOS BY THE MANUFACTURERS (6) CALLAWAY Apex Black forged irons