Weekly Golf Equipment Report: Key Changes in Professional Golf Gear
Introduction
Welcome to GOLF’s Fully Equipped weekly tour equipment report, where we delve into the latest updates on golf clubs on the PGA Tour, including important changes, tweaks, and launches. Each Friday, our equipment editor will bring you the most notable gear news from the world of golf.
Viktor Hovland Embraces New Gear
Ping’s G440 K Driver Takes Center Stage
In Scottsdale, Arizona, Viktor Hovland has made a significant change to his equipment, opting to replace his long-trusted G425 LST driver with the new Ping G440 K driver. Known for his reluctance to switch clubs, Hovland expressed enthusiasm over the G440 K’s performance during initial testing.
“They’ve really tightened up the spin consistency off the face,” Hovland remarked, noting the substantial difference in spin across different contact points with previous drivers. “With the G425, I could see a spin range from under 2000 to nearly 3000, depending on where I hit it. With the G440, the spin is much more consistent, ranging from about 2000 to 2600."
Despite initially wanting to stick with his G425, Hovland’s poor performance off the tee prompted him to reach out to Ping’s Tour Rep Kenton Oates for a test on shorter drivers, ultimately leading to the G440 K’s introduction into his bag this week.
PING G440 K Custom Driver Features
- Price: $649.00
- Characteristics: Large profile with extremely low center of gravity (CG), designed for optimal squaring of the club face.
Ben Griffin’s Transition to G440 K
Gear Innovations for Ben Griffin
Ben Griffin also made headlines by switching from his G430 Max 10K to the G440 K this week. His transition was prompted by improved performance metrics and reduced miss tendencies with the new driver.
Griffin noted that the new Maxfli Tour X-LS golf ball complimented his driver nicely, allowing him to swing more aggressively without the concern of excessive spin.
The Growing Trend of Game Improvement Hybrids
High Performers Opt for GT1 Hybrid
Cam Young’s recent switch from the GT2 hybrid to the 20-degree GT1 hybrid is part of a noticeable trend. The GT1 is designed with a fairway wood shaft, offering versatility in fitting while enhancing performance in deep rough situations.
Tony Finau’s New Approach: The Scottsdale Tec Ally Blue Onset Putter
Tony Finau made a subtle yet impactful switch to the Ping Scottsdale Tec Ally Blue Onset putter, moving away from the milled face of his previous PLD Milled Anser 2D. This change aims to enhance his performance based on recent struggles with his putting game.
Additional Gear Notes from the Tour
- Brooks Koepka: Transitioned to a TaylorMade Spider Tour X L-neck putter.
- Jordan Spieth: Updated to the new Titleist SM11 wedges and GT2 hybrid.
- Collin Morikawa: Shifted to the Spider Tour X with a unique flow neck design.
Conclusion
As players continue experimenting with their equipment in the early parts of the season, these changes could greatly influence their performance in upcoming tournaments. Stay tuned for more insights and updates on player equipment in the weeks to come.
For more golf gear news and insights, feel free to reach out at Jack.Hirsh@golf.com.
Note: If you’re interested in overhauling your golf bag this year, consider finding a club-fitting location near you for personalized recommendations.
