Cutting Through the Hype: My Take on FootJoy Pro/SL and PXG’s Latest
As the Equipment Editor for The Daily Duffer, my inbox is constantly flooded with press releases touting the “game-changing” new gear. My job, and frankly, my passion, is to sift through the marketing fluff and tell you what actually moves the needle on the launch monitor and more importantly, out on the course. Today, we’re diving into FootJoy’s revamped Pro/SL shoe and PXG’s new Hot Rod ZT Putter.
Let’s talk footwear first.
FootJoy Pro/SL: Lighter, but is it More Stable?
FootJoy’s Pro/SL has been a staple in spikeless performance for years. The new iteration claims to be “reimagined with direct input from Tour professionals,” which is a common refrain, but the details are what matter. The standout claim is the 29% weight reduction, which immediately piques my interest. Lighter shoes often translate to less leg fatigue over 18 holes, a tangible benefit for any golfer.
However, with lighter materials, the concern always shifts to stability. FootJoy addresses this with their “Z-TEC upper technology.” They state it’s a “multi-layer construction that surrounds your foot with targeted support and flexibility. This innovative design helps harness and transfer energy more efficiently through the golf swing, providing a confident foundation for the golfer.” In my experience fitting hundreds of golfers, the connection to the ground is paramount. A shoe that flexes too much can inhibit power transfer and lead to inconsistent strikes. Targeted support is key. I’ll need to get these on my feet and hit some balls on the GCQuad to assess how that “energy transfer” translates into actual numbers like clubhead speed and ground force reaction.
The ARCTrax/SL outsole with its “strategically placed cones and traction fins” is another important piece. Spikeless shoes have come a long way, but some still struggle in wet conditions or on uneven lies. Maximizing ground contact means better grip, which directly impacts stability and confidence. The mention of a “slightly wider toe box” is also a welcome change. Many golfers, myself included, prefer more room in the forefoot for comfort and better feel. A constricted toe box can lead to hot spots and reduced proprioception, hindering that crucial connection with the turf.
Overall, the Pro/SL seems to focus on refining an already successful formula. The weight reduction and wider toe box are definite positives. The real test will be how the Z-TEC upper and ARCTrax outsole balance comfort with the tour-level stability FootJoy promises.
PXG Hot Rod ZT Putter: Zero Torque, Real Impact?
Now, onto something that often elicits strong opinions: putters. PXG has unleashed the Hot Rod ZT Putter, featuring “Zero Torque Design.” This is a bold claim, and one that requires a deep dive into the engineering.
“At the core of Hot Rod ZT Putter’s performance is a design built to keep the face square to the path throughout the entire stroke. By positioning the center of gravity just below the shaft axis, the putter minimizes twisting forces that can cause the face to open or close.”
This is a critical statement. Minimizing twisting forces (or torque) is the holy grail for many golfers struggling with face control. While no putter can completely eliminate player error, a design that inherently resists twisting can certainly improve consistency. In my fitting bay, I’ve seen countless golfers battle with face rotation, especially on off-center strikes. If PXG has truly managed to position the CG to significantly reduce this, it’s a legitimate performance gain, not just marketing speak. We’d see this on Quintic data showing less face deviation from target on toe and heel hits.
The ability to fine-tune head weight from “340g to 410g” via four interchangeable sole weights and tungsten is a custom fitter’s dream. Different stroke tempos and green speeds demand different head weights. This level of adjustability allows me, as a fitter, to perfectly match the putter to a golfer’s stroke, optimizing pace control. The “Pyramid Milled Face Pattern” is another interesting detail claiming to promote a “smoother, more consistent roll.” A good roll starts with consistent impact. I’ve often seen putters with less aggressive milling produce slight skipping or inconsistent energy transfer at speeds. If this pattern genuinely interacts better with dimples, we should see an improvement in initial roll on high-speed camera analysis – less skid, more true roll.
“The Hot Rod ZT Putter also features an onset hosel with an integrated forward press that naturally positions the hands at address. While the putter is engineered with 6-degrees of measured loft, it plays like a traditional 3-degree putter thanks to the design.”
This is a smart design element. Many golfers naturally forward press, and building that into the putter’s geometry can simplify setup and promote a more consistent launch. A playing loft of 3 degrees is pretty standard for optimal roll on most greens. Higher lofts can lead to too much skidding, while lower lofts can dig into the turf. Ensuring 3 degrees of effective loft, even with a technically higher measured loft, is a detail that shows a deep understanding of putting mechanics.
Who is this putter for? Primarily, golfers seeking maximum stability and consistency. If you struggle with opening or closing the face, or if you prefer a center-shafted mallet and want options for weight customization, the Hot Rod ZT is worth a serious look.
Club Champion: A Timely Offer for the Season
Finally, a quick note on Club Champion’s offer. Free fittings with a purchase and a 50% bonus on trade-ins are genuinely compelling for golfers looking to upgrade.
I’ve always advocated for professional fitting. Launch monitors don’t lie. Seeing the data for yourself – how different shafts change spin rates, how a specific loft affects launch angle, or how a specific head can boost ball speed by a couple of mph – is invaluable. This isn’t just about getting new clubs; it’s about optimizing your game. For those on the fence about getting fitted, this offer makes it hard to say no.
The modern golf equipment landscape is constantly evolving. My job, and objective, is to give you the honest truth based on data and countless hours of testing and fitting. Both FootJoy and PXG are making valid attempts to push performance, and with the right fitting, these products could genuinely improve your game.
