Revealed: The 10 Best Golf Irons Of 2022

Posted by & filed under Golf Equipment.

Though the weather may disagree, we’re getting closer to spring with each day that passes. We’re probably guilty of saying this every year, but is there really any better time to invest in a shiny new set of irons?

If you’re preparing to get back in the swing (pardon the pun) when the season returns, there’s a good chance you’ll be in the market for new golf clubs – or at least doing some essential research beforehand.

Although a new set of irons can be rather expensive, the temptation is often too great – you need to scratch the itch.

Well, the good news is you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the 10 best golf irons of 2022 to help you narrow down that all-important search.

Whether you’re new to the game and need a forgiving model, or a pro golfer demanding superior feel and distance control, there are some excellent models to choose from.

Let’s check them out, shall we?

 

1. Tour Edge Hot Launch C521

Typical RRP: £360
Suitable for: Mid-handicappers

Made from extremely soft 431 stainless steel, the Tour Edge Hot Launch C521 irons provide an optimal feel for players of all levels, but their enhanced forgiveness makes them ideal for more competitive players.

With a more noticeable offset, thicker, chamfered topline and a longer face, C521 irons have traditional game improvement looks implemented throughout.

As well as this, the C521 cavity has been smoothed out, too, to make the iron appear less bulky, nicely complementing its slick black, silver and blue colour scheme.

C521 irons have a 15% wider sole than previous Tour Edge models, which results in cleaner interaction with the turf and more consistency in your shots.

What’s more – you’ll also notice the nifty toe-weighted design. This elongates the sweet spot, further ensuring consistent distance and feel with every shot.

 

2. Callaway Rogue ST Max Iron

Typical RRP: £850
Suitable for: Mid-high handicappers

Thanks to its combination of high-strength 450 steel and AI-designed Flash Face Cup technology, the Callaway Rogue ST Max irons are an industry first and some of the best golf irons in 2022 for sure.

Callaway is known for pushing innovation as a brand, and the Rogue ST Max series, available with either a steel or graphite shaft, certainly continues this trend.

With refined game improvement shaping and the strongest lofts in the Rogue ST line, these irons are suitable for a wide range of golfers looking for speed, forgiveness, and all-round performance.

New to the ST Max is Callaway’s leading AI Face Optimisation technology. Unique for each model and loft, this creates total spin rate consistency across the face, creates high launch and COR, and makes for a more controlled landing angle to help hold on the green.

The signature Callaway-patented urethane microspheres have also been pushed up to the sixth groove to enhance sound and feel at fast ball speeds.

 

3. Ping i59

best golf irons in 2022

Typical RRP: £1,300
Suitable for: Low handicappers

Designed to replace the Ping iBlade players’ iron, golfers familiar with that particular model can expect a similar sole bounce, blade length and offset with the i59 – but with a 0.75mm thinner sole for increased precision.

The face, grooves, hosel, and toe geometry are all CNC milled and have undergone 100% quality control inspection, too, so there’s nothing shoddy about this series whatsoever.

Bringing additional forgiveness, the i59 comprises of three main parts:

  • A forged 1025 carbon steel body
  • 17-4 stainless steel face
  • Aerospace-grade aluminium core (individually shaped to each iron in the set)

The combination of these three parts frees up 30g of material from the heart of the iron for repositioning to better control trajectory and tighten dispersion.

You’ll also find four extra grooves on each i59 model face. These help reduce fliers in the short irons and maintain spin in the longer sticks to maximise shot-to-shot consistency.

Granted, they’re not cheap – but can you really put a price on quality like this?

 

4. Wilson Staff D9

Typical RRP: £665
Suitable for: High handicappers

The powerful Wilson Staff D9 (the ‘D’ stands for ‘distance’, in case you were wondering) irons are engineered with Power Hole 2.0 technology. This means that holes have been placed on the leading edge around the bottom of the sole to deliver more face flexing.

This new arrangement of power holes increases deflection and provides more energy transfer at impact to increase ball speed. The end result? Greater distance performance.

Intelligent design personified, Wilson Staff D9 irons ensure more power throughout.

The D9 is also positioned with Wilson’s lowest ever centre of gravity to improve launch and spin. This means more stopping power and greater workability for you, the user.

Wilson’s Staff game improvement model is also a slightly more wallet-friendly option for higher handicap golfers. So, with those distance gains, you’re also going to save a few pounds versus if you bought from one of the other, perhaps bigger brands.

 

5. TaylorMade P790 Iron

best golf irons in 2022

Typical RRP: £900
Suitable for: Low handicappers

As a golfer, you’ll know that an iron is more than just the metal it’s made from. Your trusty set of irons is likely to be the product of countless hours of research, testing and feedback.

That’s certainly the case with the TaylorMade P790 series, anyway, and if you’re looking to push yourself to be the best you can be, these are the perfect irons for you in 2022.

With a thin wall construction made from new 8620 carbon steel, forged L-Face and redesigned tungsten weighting, this new generation of TaylorMade irons have been carefully crafted for optimal launch with more forgiveness.

TaylorMade’s newly engineered SpeedFoam Air is almost 70% lighter than its predecessor and provides around 3.5g of weight savings on average.

This makes for an ultra-thin iron face and unlocks an intelligent sweet spot that’s been cleverly repositioned to capture more shots and perfect performance in the areas you need it most.

 

6. Mizuno JPX 921

best golf irons in 2022

Typical RRP: £1,000
Suitable for: High handicappers

Mizuno JPX 921 irons are primarily designed to make you a better golfer.

If you’re already familiar with other Mizuno models on the market, you’ll ease into using the JPX 921 in no time, as it’s a combination of all the components that make Mizuno one of the best manufacturers out there.

Perhaps most notably, the use of Chromoly – a low-alloy steel, typically stronger and more durable than other types of steel. So, whether it’s high speeds, precision, balance, or all the above – this has you covered.

As is standard for Mizuno, the stunning JPX 921 boasts an impressive fusion of precision with stability, particularly from off-centre strikes. However, these newer irons now have even thicker behind impact for an enhanced but softer feel, as well as tour-refined short irons for a smoother interaction with the turf.

The straight flight and sharp look of the JPX 921 irons make them a solid choice for younger golfers, perhaps with less course experience – but in truth, they’re suitable for any golfer.

 

7. Titleist T200

Typical RRP: £1,000
Suitable for: Various levels and handicaps

In developing its T200 irons, Titleist has taken everything which made its previous iron generations so special and shrunk it into a much more compact, Tour-ready design.

However, previous models within Titleist’s renowned T-series have been somewhat criticised in the past for looking too much like game-improvement irons. So, with streamlined Max Impact technology and denser tungsten weighting, the T200 irons arguably showcase Titleist’s boldest shift yet within the series.

Visually, these irons now have a much slicker shape, shorter blade length, and a thinner topline than previous T models. The addition of a specially engineered muscle plate also improves acoustics, ensuring a crisper sound and feel, too.

The T200 irons offer a solid mix of performance attributes suitable for golfers of various handicaps.

Let’s say you’re a low handicapper but not the best ball-striker, or perhaps you’re an experienced golfer finding yourself in the low-teen handicap range – Titleist T200 irons will serve you well.

 

8. Cleveland CG Launcher CBX

best golf irons in 2022

Typical RRP: £650
Suitable for: Mid-high handicappers

Cleveland’s CG Launcher CBX irons make a significant difference to your performance as a golfer. That claim is, of course, according to the brand itself.

However, it’s difficult to see how this wouldn’t be the case, given the level of innovation and technology we’re working with here.

Offering perhaps a more stripped-back design to previous Cleveland irons, two of its wedge technologies (the V-shaped sole and tour zip grooves) combine here to provide golfers with a much more forgiving set of irons.

The tour zip grooves with laser milling enhance spin, making for wedge-like control. At the same time, the V-shaped sole – now synonymous with Cleveland after years of testing on its wedges –  allows you to cut through the turf much smoother and faster than you perhaps would with other irons.

Not to mention that its classy satin finish means you’ll look the part out on the course, too.

 

9. Cobra F-Max Airspeed

Typical RRP: £600
Suitable for: Mid-high handicappers

The super-lightweight F-Max Airspeed irons from Cobra are designed to help you deliver unrivalled speed, launch and distance. In fact, these irons are marketed as boasting the lightest ever design for maximum distance.

Three key technologies combine here to make these some of the best and most enjoyable golf irons to play with (in 2022 and indeed, beyond). These are:

  • A deep undercut cavity
  • Low profile shape
  • Greater lofts

The offset club design will help you master the pin-seeker, and you’ll reap the benefits of perfect trajectories in every iron in the set, too. This is because Cobra cleverly makes its long irons more forgiving, scoring irons more accurate, and wedges more precise.

Although suitable for a wide range of golfers, the Cobra F-Max Airspeed irons have been more specifically designed to aid mid-to-high handicappers.

 

10. Callaway Mavrik

best golf irons in 2022

Typical RRP: £1,000
Suitable for: Mid-high handicappers

We conclude our round-up of the best golf irons in 2022 with another solid entry courtesy of our good friends, Callaway.

Again, making use of its AI-designed Flash Face Cup technology, the Mavrik iron boasts a sophisticated face architecture that’s unique to every loft to create a noticeable boost in ball speed and increased spin robustness.

Flexing and releasing at every impact, the 360 Face Cup enhances ball speed even further.

The addition of custom tungsten-infused weights in each iron in the set also allows careful positioning of the centre of gravity while still maintaining your desired ball speed.

As is now typically standard for Callaway, its patented urethane microspheres also effectively absorb any unwanted vibration at high speed.

There are also several shaft options to choose from with the Mavrik, so you can tailor yours just how you like.

How To Clean Golf Clubs

Posted by & filed under Golf Tips.

There are two types of golfer: the one who enjoys cleaning their clubs and goes about doing so quite enthusiastically after each and every round, versus the one who throws their sticks into the boot of the car without giving their equipment a moment’s more thought. 

Well, if you’re the latter, shame on you.

Whether you find it a chore or not, cleaning your golf clubs is essential. Not only do you want your clubs to stay looking like new for as long as possible, not to mention shining beautifully in your golf bag, but presumably you want them to give you the very best performance, too?

Put simply, if your grooves are clogged up with sand and dirt, and your grips are filthy, you’re making the game more difficult than it already is.

So, here’s our guide on how to clean golf clubs.

 

What You Need

how to clean golf clubs

Much like you’d organise your kitchen worktop before preparing a meal, get everything in place first. Here’s what you need:

  • Bucket or a sink
  • Lukewarm water
  • Washing up liquid
  • Towel (two if possible)
  • Nylon brush
  • Cloth

 

Step 1

how to clean golf clubs

First thing’s first – this crucial operation is best performed outside!

You want enough lukewarm water to cover the heads of your irons without the water coming up over the ferrules (the part that joins the shafts to the heads).

The water shouldn’t be scorching hot, as this risks loosening the ferrules – so make sure you use a little cold water to take the edge off the heat. Apply a little squirt of washing up liquid and give it a splash to create some bubbles.  

 

Step 2

Start with the irons. Let the clubheads soak for a few minutes, and watch that dirt come loose. You’ll be surprised how quickly the water turns brown, especially given you’re bound to have some grime behind the clubheads, too, which can get lodged in pretty firmly on cavity back heads.

 

Step 3

how to clean golf clubs

Now for the satisfying bit – the part where a bit of elbow grease may well be required.

Get your nylon brush or a brush with plastic bristles – even an old toothbrush can be effective – and get to work on those individual grooves. Remember, it’s the grooves that help impart spin on the golf ball, so removing debris to increase the surface area contact with your ball at impact is going to help you control your shots.

 

Step 4

Maybe your irons are so clogged up with dirt you can’t even see what number you have in your hand, so run the brush across the sole of the iron and around the back of the head.

 

Step 5

how to clean golf clubs

Give them a good rinse under the tap. If you’re cleaning them outside, make sure you put another towel down instead of resting them on a hard surface – you don’t want to cause any little chinks on the soles. Use a cloth to wipe the shaft down and, crucially, use a towel to dry each club thoroughly before placing it back in your bag.

 

Cleaning Your Woods And Putter

how to clean golf clubs

Unless you’ve been catching the ball extremely heavy, your woods/metals shouldn’t need too much of a clean! However, you don’t want to forget to wipe them.

The most important thing to remember is to not submerge these in water – just give them a dip and wipe over them with a wet cloth. Again, make sure you dry them thoroughly before returning to your golf bag.

 

Cleaning Your Grips

how to clean golf clubs

It might be an obvious point to make, but this is the part of the club you’re in contact with on every shot – and grips get filthy, even if you can’t necessarily see it. If you lose your grip on the club… well, you know what’s going to happen.

So, make sure you wipe each one down with a moist cloth and then dry them with a towel. You should get into the habit of doing this regularly to get rid of dirt, grime, and even sun cream.

For a more thorough wash – perhaps you haven’t given them a clean for half a dozen rounds or so – you’ll need some lukewarm water and a few bubbles. A splash of washing up soap will do it; then, get a few bubbles on a wet cloth and rub them into the grip. Rinse clean under warm water and pat down and dry thoroughly with a towel. Again, make sure the water isn’t really hot, as you’ll risk causing the glue underneath the grips to loosen.

There, good as new… well, almost. If they have a shiny appearance, you may want to consider them re-gripped.

Get into the habit of cleaning your golf clubs regularly, and not only will your equipment stay looking shiny, but you’ll get the most out of them.   

The 13 Best Golf Training Aids For 2022

Posted by & filed under Golf Equipment.

With UK Covid restrictions lifting, golf clubs are about to be bustling again. So, it’s time to sharpen your golf game before you hit the green.

Golfers have never had so much choice, with hundreds of different devices and tools designed to improve every aspect game.

Here you’ll find 13 of the best golf training aids for you to consider. Invest now and you’ll hit the ground running when the summer season returns.

 

1. PuttOUT Premium Pressure Putt Trainer, RRP £29.99

golf training aids

With its scientifically designed parabolic curve, this device auto-returns your good putts, rejects missed putts and holds your perfect putts, giving you crucial feedback to help with pace and line.

With a host of PuttOut challenges such as holing 25 in a row, you can enhance your ability to perform under pressure. This feature will definitely help when you’re stood over a meaningful putt in real competition.

 

2. ON PAR Tri Turf Mat, RRP £59.99

golf training aids

If there’s one downside to hitting balls in your back garden, it’s the damage that’s inflicted on the lawn.

This 25″ x 16″ mat isn’t designed with horticulturalists in mind; rather, it simulates three different types of lie golfers encounter on the course. So, you can practise off compact lies as well as longer grass, something you don’t always get at the local driving range.

And yes, it will also stop those divots from spoiling your perfectly manicured turf. 

 

3. Pure 2 Improve Pop-Up Triangle Practice Net, RRP £179.99

golf training aids

Of course, if you’re going to hit balls in the back garden, then you’ll need a net – such as this one.

It looks a little like a tent; only it’s nowhere near as difficult to erect. The beauty of this net is its user-friendly pop-up design.

It’s not always easy to work out how well you’re hitting the ball into a net, but with the 60cm diameter target, you can at least get an idea of your starting line.

Having a target also adds an element of fun to your practice and makes this one of the best golf training aids for improving your aim. 

 

4. PuttOUT Training Mirror & Gate, RRP £49.99

If you’re struggling on the greens and feel like your stroke lacks consistency, this training aid will put you on the road to recovery.

The mirror provides instant feedback, so you can see your swing path in action and work out why you might not be delivering a square face at impact.

Meanwhile, the 50mm putting gate provides the ultimate test: place it a foot in front of the ball and see if you can roll the ball through it.

Get used to this, and it’s amazing how big the hole appears when you switch back to putting for real.

 

5. Orange Whip Compact, RRP £79.95

golf training aids

We’ve all stood in front of the mirror and rehearsed our swing, haven’t we? Well, try doing it with this device, designed to help you with the rhythm of your golf swing.

An orange ball replaces the clubhead and allows you to focus on swinging naturally without thinking about the position of the clubface.

It’s weighted in such a way to promote a fluid swinging motion rather than a jerky hitting motion.

Meanwhile, a counterweight helps stabilise the swing and provides feedback as to whether you are loading or unloading the club properly. In conjunction with this, a proprietary shaft naturally promotes the need to swing in rhythm, creating synchronisation between your arms, upper body, and lower body.

The Compact model (35.5in) simulates short iron motion, but there’s also the longer Whip Trainer (47in) and Mid-Size (43in) in this range of golf swing aids, which simulate the driver motion. 

Just make sure no one’s standing too close when you have a swing!

 

6. Impact Ball Golf Training Aid, RRP £29.95

golf training aids

If your brain is flooded with mechanical thoughts each time you take a swing, let the Impact Ball Golf Swing Trainer rectify that.

You can place it between your forearms or knees to adjust the position of your hands, wrists, and body —ultimately promoting a better impact position.

Regular use boosts your distance and overall swing consistency by allowing you to develop a feel for the optimum stance.

The Impact Ball Golf Training Aid is extremely versatile as it can also be used to improve your putting, chipping, and pitching technique, making it one of the best golf training aids available in the UK.

 

7. Perfect Putting Mat by Perfect Practice, RRP £124.99

golf training aids

Endorsed by PGA Tour professionals such as Matthew Wolff and Marc Leishman and voted 2020 Indoor Golf Product of the Year, this is no ordinary putting mat.

Since it’s manufactured with a unique Crystal Velvet material, this aid is second to none when replicating a putting green.

The Tru-Roll Technology will have your ball rolling at 10-14 stimp, which is equivalent to that of a PGA Tour green.

Plus, the best way to optimise your putting skills is to up your practice difficulty. This product features a 50% hole, which is ideal in this scenario as it allows you to challenge yourself when you’re away from the course.

 

8. SuperSpeed Golf Training Aid, RRP £189.00

golf training aids

If more distance is what you’re after, this is one of the best golf training aids to help you reach those new yardage goals. How does an extra 20 yards sound in less than eight weeks?

You might have to put some work in, but with its interchangeable head weights (100g, 150g and 200g), the Swing Speed golf training aid is a very effective bit of kit.

Not only does it help build up your swing speed, but it also provides a core muscle workout and improves your sequencing through the ball.

 

9. The Lag Stick, RRP £19.95

golf training aids

Keeping your head ahead of the ball is key to making good, solid contact – and this clever training aid will help you to see and feel what it’s like to compress the ball.

Place the plastic rod into the butt of your club, and midway through the downswing, the rod will elongate, which encourages you to keep your hands ahead of the ball.

The result? After the ball has gone, more divots and a more penetrating ball flight.

 

10. SKLZ Smash Bag Golf Training Aid, RRP £29.99

It might be called a smash bag – and let’s be honest, we all feel like letting off a bit of steam now and again – but there’s far more to this training aid.

Have you ever found yourself marvelling at the world’s best ball strikers, wondering how they produce such well-struck shots time after time?

It’s largely due to the position top professionals get into at impact – which is what makes this training aid so effective.

By learning that correct feeling, you can transform your ball striking – and release some pent-up frustration, of course.

 

11. Eyeline Gold Speed Trap 2.0, RRP £79.95

Do you struggle to visualise your swing path? If so, you’re not alone. It’s a troublesome aspect of improving your overall swing.

With this device, you’ll be able to focus on your downward path and adjust any issues that mean you’re not squaring the club face at impact.

The adjustable foam pegs will provide parameters for your swing and remove the guesswork that amateur golfers spend hours working against.

They’re also great for helping skilled players adjust their technique and get straight back to where they left off in their last session.

 

12. Tee Claw Golf Training Aid Kit, RRP £30.02

The Tee Claw is truly one of the best golf training aids on the market for its affordable yet versatile nature.

Not only does it eradicate the need for the dreaded rubber tees in poor conditions, but it provides a pocket-friendly aid to drills like:

  • Alignment
  • Swing path
  • Ball position
  • Chipping
  • Putting

It is compatible with any tee and can be affixed to any form of putting surface, from both natural and artificial grass to carpet.

The Tee Claw YouTube channel comes with various tutorials, helping you get the most out of your training sessions once you’ve made your purchase.

 

13. SKLZ Unisex Golf Grip Trainer, RRP £15.99

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, it never hurt anyone to improve their grip.

Compatible with most golf clubs, the SKLZ Golf Grip Trainer will help beginners to develop muscle memory and overall accuracy. It’ll also mean they avoid common pitfalls like hooking, slicing, or re-gripping.  

Seasoned golfers will benefit from training these skills in their pre-range sessions and avoid reverting to any bad habits they’ve picked up.

The Best Golf Layers For Winter

Posted by & filed under Golf Equipment.

Winter has arrived. The combination of cold gusty winds and icy rain is bad news for the golfer lacking the necessary layers to stay warm on the course this winter.

A cosy sweater is not enough. Where winter golf is concerned, it’s all about the layers. These layers work together to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable, even in the most adverse weather conditions.

Here are the best golf layers for winter…

Best golf base layers

This is where you should start – a base layer is crucial. If you’re worried about your swing feeling restricted, don’t be. Due to their stretchy properties, base layers work with your swing.

Once you’ve started playing in a base layer, you’ll never play another winter round without one.

Galvin Green Edwin Base Layer

golf layers for winter

Galvin Green’s SKINTIGHT Thermal technology offers maximum breathability and comfort. The technology comes from a combination of knit and fibres that provide a light and breathable structure, which is perfect for golf.

Puma Golf 2.0 Base Layer

golf layers for winter

This base layer contains a dryCELL fabric, which works by drawing moisture away from the skin for rapid drying. Its Extreme Flex ensures that your swinging motion is not at all hindered.

It features the Puma cat logo on the sleeve, which can be seen when it’s warm enough to take off a layer or two. 

Under Armour GolfGear Compression Mock Base Layer

golf layers for winter

This base layer features Dual-layer ColdGear fabric to ensure you stay warm with a brushed interior and fast-drying exterior. It also features 4-way stretch fabrication and ColdGear fabric.

There are subtle details all over this base layer, and these details make Under Armour’s ColdGear one of the standout base layers on the market.

Best golf mid layers

When it comes to the best golf mid layers, it’s all about versatility. You need warmth when the temperature drops, comfort when your body heats up, and protection when the clouds open.

We’re no longer talking about dull, baggy jumpers, either. Today’s offerings tick loads of boxes in terms of style, performance, and playability.

FootJoy Chill-Out Xtreme Fleece Pullover

golf layers for winter

This performance sweater is easy to slip on over a base layer and/or polo shirt. The soft fleece lining offers body heat retention and comfort, whilst the reach through front hand pockets provide added warmth.

Meanwhile, engineered woven panels on the chest and rear yoke provide abrasion protection. Both the light blue/navy and grey/charcoal colours are very smart.

Ralph Lauren Peached LS Jersey

golf layers for winter

This is the perfect quarter-zip mid layer for those chilly conditions. It’s easy to slip on and off, and store in your bag. That said, given how smart it looks, you’re probably going to want to keep it on – on and off the course.

This classic fit top is moisture-wicking and has 4-way stretch, so you can swing freely.

Ping Nordic

golf layers for winter

Ping Nordic has made some statement with this fleece, which features grid back fabric for lightweight warmth.

In terms of colours, you can choose from striking blue, grey and black, and mallard green. Don’t be put off by the name of the latter – they are all water repellent.

Galvin Green Drake Insula

golf layers for winter

This half zip mid layer has a wonderful soft feel. It’s extremely stretchy and offers superior breathability and thermal regulation properties.

It features contrast colour signature logos transferred on the right shoulder and back neck. The sharkskin (grey) is a popular choice, perhaps because it goes so well with multiple colours.

Oscar Jacobson Thomson

golf layers for winter

This technical pullover with contemporary design details offers a distinctive look. Its functional polyester blend stretch fabric aids freedom of movement and high levels of moisture-wicking for superior comfort.

For anyone looking for something other than a grey or black, the light blue and light plum will add a nice splash of colour to your winter wardrobe.

FootJoy Thermal Quilted Vest

They’re perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea, but vests and gilets are mid layers worth investing in – and here’s one to consider. 

The water-repellent outer shell combines with sweater knit side panels to provide warmth. Extra warmth can be found in the zip hand pockets, while the elastic binding on the armholes and waist ensure a comfortable fit.

Best Golf Outer Layers

It won’t just bucket it down this winter – we hope – so there will be days where an outer layer such as a windproof jacket will be adequate.

Let’s look at some of the best golf outer layers…

Galvin Green Aaron Waterproof Jacket

If you want the best outer layer that money can buy, look no further than the Galvin Green Aaron waterproof jacket. This premium offering provides unrivalled protection from the elements.

It features a complex multi-layer construction to provide waterproof protection, and a mesh lining for breathability.

It’s one for the serious golfer who relishes a battle with the elements.

Puma Ultradry Jacket

Puma’s Ultradry jacket features a number of nice touches. The waist pockets and cuff adjustor offer more usability and comfort, as does the ventilated back.

Callaway Stormguard Jacket

Tour pros aren’t often required to pull on the wet weather gear, but here’s a jacket Callaway Staff players tend to reach for when the heavens open.

The use of highly weather-resistant fabrics provides protection from storm tested wind and rain. Meanwhile, the soft material works with the golf swing, and it’s quiet, too, so you can be sure of having no distractions when you swing.

Ping Downton Waterproof Jacket

golf layers for winter

Waterproof, windproof, and lightweight, Ping’s Downton has everything you need to tackle the winter weather. Go for the blue and inject a bit more colour into your winter outfit.

Under Armour ColdGear Reactor Hybrid Wind Jacket

There’s a lot to like about this garment, which Jordan Spieth often turns to when the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Storm technology repels water, whilst the lofty insulating design provides 100 per cent thermal wind protection. It’s styled with a padded design, so it looks a bit different to other garments, which is no bad thing.

Ping Norse PrimaLoft II Thermal Wind Jacket

Whilst you’ll have no problems wearing this jacket during light rain showers, it does its best work in the wind. Featuring PrimaLoft insulation, the quilted design retains high levels of body heat to keep the chill out, so you can remain focused on playing your best golf.

The 15 Best Golf Courses In North West England

Posted by & filed under Golf Courses.

The North West of England is a golfing paradise. From England’s Golf Coast, which takes in the likes of Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, and Royal Lytham & St Annes, to a whole host of beautiful layouts in Cheshire, Greater Manchester and Cumbria, there are top class courses all over this neck of the woods.

Here’s our guide to the 15 best North West golf courses.

1. Royal Birkdale

For many, Royal Birkdale occupies top spot in the North West.

We all have our favourites, of course – but few would claim this world-famous Open venue isn’t worthy of a place in the UK and Ireland’s top ten.

Since first hosting The Open in 1954, Royal Birkdale has been the most regular venue for the Championship other than St Andrews. Who can forget Jordan Spieth’s heroics here in 2017, or a young Justin Rose holing out on 18 back in 1998?

Challenging venues have a habit of creating special memories, and Birkdale is most certainly that. This peerless links is blessed with towering dunes, and when the wind is up, it can be a torrid experience.

It is fair, though, and if you find the fairways, your ball will rarely veer off into trouble. Enjoy it for what is – links heaven. 

2. Royal Lytham & St Annes

It’s a treat to play one of the courses on The Open rota – and the green fees, as punchy as they may be, are worth every penny.

Royal Lytham is a demanding links test. The Open Championship’s top three in 2012 comprised Ernie Els, Adam Scott, and Tiger Woods – so you could say it’s a course that rewards good ball striking.

A links it may be, but it no longer sits beside the sea. However, with Blackpool Tower looming in the distance, you know the ocean isn’t far away.

As for a standout hole, many consider the short ninth, which is surrounded by a pearl necklace of beautiful revetted bunkers, to be its signature. All that’s required is a smooth short-iron.

3. Formby

No golf trip to Merseyside is complete without playing Formby, which will appeal to links lovers and those who prefer heathland golf.

In fact, one of the best holes – the par-4 seventh – requires a pinpoint tee shot to a narrow fairway framed by pines trees.

Along the way, you’re treated to glimpses of Formby Ladies, which sits inside Formby. If you’re clever, you can arrange to play both courses on the same day.

After following the railway line for the first three holes – you don’t want that fade to turn into a slice – you turn towards the Irish Sea, which comes into view on the ninth, a brute of a par 4. From there, you zigzag your way home to the wonderful clubhouse. It’s pure joy throughout.

4. Hillside

If you’re in Southport to play Royal Birkdale, you must head next door to Hillside, the host venue for the 2019 British Masters.

This course has always been lauded for its back nine, a glorious stretch of holes amongst the tall dunes. In a letter to the club, Greg Norman once described the holes on the run for home as ‘the best in Britain’.

However, the front nine isn’t exactly forgettable, and Martin Ebert’s recent work to enhance the opening set of holes has made a great course even stronger.

When you play here, you feel like you’re on a rollercoaster, heading this way and that, and some of the views from the elevated tees – you can see the Lake District and Snowdonia on a clear day – are spectacular.

5. Southport & Ainsdale

S&A has twice hosted the fledging Ryder Cup, first in 1933 and again four years later.

A warm welcome is guaranteed here, so you’ll be feeling nice and relaxed before teeing off on a par-3 – and it’s a beauty, playing around 200 yards to a heavily bunkered green.

You’ll need to hit it straight off the tee to score well, as the rough tends to gather anything off-line. There are so many memorable holes, although the par-5 16th will give you plenty to think about – and chat about after in the clubhouse.

‘Gumbleys’ is a brute. First, you must find the fairway, which isn’t easy when you have a railway line right, before you face a blind shot over a huge sleepered bank. ‘Intimidating’ is the word that comes to mind.

6. West Lancashire

West Lancs is the oldest club in Lancashire, and one of the ten oldest in England, boasting a history inextricably intertwined with Royal Liverpool’s. And like Hoylake, it tests every aspect of your game, especially when the wind is up.

Tommy Fleetwood enjoys the odd round here, and he’d probably tell you the same – it’s tough. In fact, even those holes that appear innocuous can trip you up.

On a clear day, you can see as far as Blackpool, and to the southwest there are equally pleasing views across the Crosby Channel to the Birkenhead Peninsula and Liverpool Bay.

7. St Annes Old Links

George Lowe, the club’s first professional and original architect of nearby Royal Lytham, designed the first nine holes here, with the second nine arriving following input from 1902 Open champion, Sandy Herd. As a result, you have a true championship links.

Many regard the ninth hole as its signature – a modest-lengthened par-3 to a large punchbowl green well protected by bunkers.

If you’re looking to play three courses that are near one another, you’d do well to play here, Fairhaven and, of course, Royal Lytham & St Annes. What a fine trio.

8. Silloth on Solway

The next course on our list is the most northerly course on England’s west coast – and what a beauty it is.

Silloth on Solway is undoubtedly this rugged county’s jewel in the crown. The nearby industry can’t spoil the experience of a round here – it’s too mesmerising.

In a standard southwesterly breeze, Silloth presents a game of two halves, and you’ll need to battle hard on the front nine. Even on a calm day, you’ll do well to evade the heather and gorse.

Tough it may be, but this wonderfully remote and idyllic setting will most certainly entice you back. 

9. Formby Ladies

A lot of golfers will turn up, look and the scorecard and believe they can overpower Formby Ladies – a strategy that’s not considered too wise.

Put the driver away and see if you can plot your way round without encountering the heather, which is easy to find if you get too aggressive.

Combined with relatively small greens, it presents a superb test and rarely is it presented in anything but perfect condition. The par-3s are particularly good fun and demand precise ball striking and distance control.

It’s one of those courses you’d happily go and play again immediately after – albeit with a different game plan.

10. Royal Liverpool

England’s second oldest links has staged The Open on 12 occasions.

Rory McIlroy lifted the Claret Jug when it was last held on the Wirral Peninsula, and Hoylake will once again welcome the world’s best golfers in 2023.

Tiger Woods has fond memories of Hoylake, too – it’s here when he picked up the third of his Open titles in 2006. See if you can muster up a spectacular shot of your own at the 14th, which is where the great man holed a 4-iron from 225 yards.

This historic venue will make the hairs stand on the back of your neck, long before you tee off. When you do, and you might need to steady yourself given the famous turf on which you stand, you’ll need to be confident with that big stick, for this is a layout that places a real emphasis on strong drives.

11. Hesketh

Hesketh is surrounded by a number of world-class venues, but it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.

If you do take a trip to Southport (the course was originally called Southport Golf Club), don’t think you’re in for an easy ride. Hesketh is every bit as challenging as its famous neighbours.

On the elevated tee at the first, you can open your shoulders. Thereafter, and if you’re off-line a little, it’s easy to go back into your shell.

The course sits beside a nature reserve, and to the west, two holes border what has become a haven for wildfowl, which adds to the venue’s character and helps create one or two different holes. However, it’s very much links in nature for the most part.

12. Wallasey

This Open Championship qualifying venue can certainly hold its head high in exalted company.

This is where Frank Stableford devised his points scoring system, and if you’re going to accumulate a good number of these, you’ll need to drive it long and straight.

Originally designed by Old Tom Morris, Wallasey was later modified by Harold Hilton and James Braid.

It’s one fun place to play golf, especially over the front nine with several raised plateau greens and elevated tees.

Situated on the cusp of the Wirral Peninsula with views across the River Mersey, it’s one for the ‘must play’ list.

13. Delamere Forest

One of the attractions of Delamere, located in Cheshire, is that even after heavy rainfall, the greens play like they haven’t seen a drop in weeks.

The sandy foundation allows for year-round golf, and it looks a picture whenever you play here, too. This is heathland golf at its best.

Herbert Fowler designed the original course, and it’s also benefitted from some fabulous bunkering work by Tom Mackenzie. Many will remember the ninth and 18th holes, with their terrific clubhouse backdrops, as well as the risk/reward par-4 13th, a tempter of a short hole which is heavily bunkered.

14. Fairhaven

You’ll find Fairhaven just two miles away from Royal Lytham & St Annes, and whilst its famous neighbour may grab the lion’s share of the plaudits, this wonderful venue has its own special aura.

Its greens are fast and slick, and James Braid’s distinctive bunkers pose a constant threat.

Although three miles from the sea, it’s a course that retains strong links characteristics, especially with its many revetted bunkers.

The five par-5s give you a chance to post a good score, but you’re only likely to do that if you can steer clear of those strategically placed traps.

15. Prestbury

Prestbury is right up there amongst the best courses in Cheshire. It possesses more than a hint of a heathland feel, whilst the elevation changes make for some wonderful holes.

It was Harry Colt who was tasked with creating the course a little over a hundred years ago, and he’s left his mark with a number of shelf greens on the third and fifth holes.

Many regard the par-4 ninth as the standout hole – it’s certainly one of the toughest, playing uphill to a long narrow green. Meanwhile, the 17th, which plays across a wide gully, is a terrific short hole.

If you’re looking for a parkland course to complement your links itinerary, be sure to head Macclesfield way.  

The 14 Best Golfers Never To Win A Major

Posted by & filed under Majors.

Such is their significance, the four major golfing championships (the Masters, US PGA Championship, US Open, and the Open Championship) can often define a player’s career. If you didn’t already know, Jack Nicklaus has won 18 majors and Tiger Woods 15 at the time of writing. These are some impressive hauls, we think you’ll agree.

But though these elite golfers have made winning such prestigious prizes look easy, not every golfer manages to clinch a major.

And those who haven’t been able to win one have still had mightily impressive careers, as there’s no shortage of top-level competitions in professional golf.

In no particular order, here are the 14 best golfers never to win a major.

1. Bernard Gallacher

Bernard has been involved in golf for more than four decades and is one of golf’s most highly-respected names.

Despite never winning a major, Bernard still enjoyed a very fruitful golfing career, winning ten European Tour events and finishing in the top ten on the European Tour Order of Merit five times.

He also beat Jack Nicklaus and Lanny Wadkins at the 1977 and 1979 Ryder Cups, respectively and became the youngest man to ever represent Great Britain at the Ryder Cup in 1969, aged just 20.

Now retired from playing professionally, Bernard has commentated on golf tournaments for broadcast outlets, including BBC Radio 5 Live. He’s also a PGA captain and has been awarded an OBE.

2. Colin Montgomerie

Although his name is synonymous with the Ryder Cup, Colin Montgomerie, or ‘Monty’ as he’s affectionately known, has never actually won a major.

Montgomerie, who hails from Scotland, played in eight Ryder Cups from 1991 to 2006, winning it an impressive five times. He’s also the joint record-holder for most single points won in Ryder Cup history (seven), alongside Neil Coles.

Montgomerie’s win-lose-draw record of 20-9-7 at the Ryder Cup also places him in an impressive fourth place on the all-time list for most points won by a golfer from the continent at the tournament.

On top of all that, he’s won 31 European Tour events – the most of any British golfer – and a record eight European Tour Order of Merit titles, seven of which were in consecutive years from 1993 to 1999.

It’s probably fair to say he’s never lost sleep over not winning a major.

3. Lee Westwood

Anyone who knows a thing or two about golf will be familiar with Lee Westwood.

Known for his solid consistency out on the green, he’s part of an elite group of golfers to win tournaments on five continents – Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.

He’s won titles in four consecutive decades since the 1990s and represented Europe in ten Ryder Cups – so it’s safe to say his career has been everything but quiet.

In 2010, Westwood officially became the world number one, overtaking Tiger Woods and becoming the first British golfer to rank best in the world since Nick Faldo held the coveted position in 1994.

With 44 career wins at the time of writing, Westwood is widely considered one of the best golfers in history without a major championship victory. He’s also one of only two golfers to have held the world number one ranking without winning a major – Luke Donald being the other .

However, he’s finished runner-up three times at major championships – twice in the Masters (2010 and 2016) and once in the Open Championship (2010). He also won the European Tour Order of Merit in 2000.

In 2011, he was awarded an OBE in recognition of his services to golf.

4. Harry Cooper

Though you won’t be old enough to remember Harry Cooper from his actual playing days, you may be familiar with his legacy. And if you’re not, you’ll certainly remember his name after reading about him.

A legend of the 1920s and 1930s golf scene, Cooper bagged 30 PGA Tour victories during his long and impressive career in the sport.

After winning the inaugural Los Angeles Open in 1926 by completing the full 18 holes in just two-and-a-half hours, Cooper earned himself the nickname ‘Lighthorse Harry’.

Although he never won a major, he did win the 1934 Western Open, one of the world’s most important golf titles at the time. You could say he was a victim of his era.

After he retired from the professional game, Cooper became a highly-rated golf instructor, imparting his knowledge and expertise to golf’s next generation well into his 90s.

Cooper was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1992 in recognition of his achievements in the sport, and he passed away in 2000, aged 96.

5. Paul Casey

Paul Casey enjoyed solid success in his amateur career, including three consecutive wins at the Pac-12 Championships. He also played a pivotal role in Great Britain and Ireland’s winning Walker Cup team in 1999, before turning professional and joining the European Tour in 2001.

From then on, Paul’s career continued to push boundaries and reach new heights. In his first season as a pro, Paul recorded a win at the Gleneagles Scottish PGA Championship, finished 22nd on the European Tour Order of Merit, and won the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year award – not bad.

Despite the lack of a major on his CV, Paul’s certainly been no stranger to a record or two. During the 1999 Walker Cup-winning campaign, he became only the third player in 77 years to record four victories without a single defeat.

And in 2006, Paul became the only golfer in Ryder Cup history to win a foursome match with a hole-in-one.

In 2009, he reached third in the Official World Golf Rankings – the highest position he’s held to date.

6. Doug Sanders

In terms of sheer style and swagger on the fairway, not many come close to the late, great Doug Sanders.

Nicknamed the ‘Peacock of the Fairways’ for his flamboyant, colourful dress sense, Sanders was named one of America’s ten best-dressed athletes by Esquire in 1972.

But he didn’t just walk the walk – Sanders talked the talk, too. Although he never won a major, he secured an impressive 13 top ten finishes at the various championships throughout his career. In fact, he finished runner-up at four majors – namely at the 1959 US PGA Championship, 1961 US Open, and the 1966 and 1970 Opens.

In 1966, he became one of the few players in golf history to finish in the top-ten of all four major championships in the same season, despite winning none.

This record is a testament to Sanders’ consistency and perseverance out on the green.

He died in April 2020, aged 86, but his distinctive, short, flat golf swing (and luminous outfits) will always be remembered.

7. Bruce Crampton

The term ‘nemesis’ isn’t one too commonly associated with golf – but it’s fair to say that Bruce Crampton had a nemesis in the form of Jack Nicklaus.

During his professional career, Crampton came runner-up in four major championships – one Masters, one US Open, and two US PGA Championships – all to Nicklaus.

However, the Australian enjoyed regular victories in tournaments such as the Australian Open, New Zealand PGA Championships, Philippine Open, and the Far East Open. In fact, he won 20 times on the Champions Tour and even topped the ‘money list’ in the mid-‘80s.

Crampton was ranked in the world’s top five golfers in 1972 and 1973 and was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2001.

He also represented his country at the Golf World Cup five times from 1957 to 1972.

8. Luke Donald

Luke Donald turned professional in 2001 and made his debut at the Reno-Tahoe Open in California. From there, he continued to hone his craft to become one of the best golfers in the world.

Just four years after turning pro, in 2005, Donald made his Masters debut and finished in joint third-place – an almost unthinkable result for a first-timer.

As a result of his display at the 2005 Masters, he jumped an almighty 117 places in the golf world rankings, from 130th to 13th.

He spent a cumulative total of 56 weeks as world number one between 2011 and 2012 with more than 200 weeks spent in the world’s top ten, beginning at the same time – proving that consistency is key.

He and fellow Englishman Lee Westwood are the only two golfers to have ranked number one in the world despite never having won a major.

Donald was awarded an MBE in 2012 in recognition of his achievements and services to golf.

9. Rickie Fowler

Another golfer known for his colourful dress sense, Rickie Fowler is no stranger to a pair of bright orange chinos.

In fact, it’s become a Fowler tradition to wear orange on the final day of a tournament in honour of Oklahoma State University, where he studied.

Despite only being in his early thirties at the time of writing, Fowler has risen right to the top and achieved some impressive feats.

Before turning professional in 2009, Rickie was once the number one ranked amateur golfer in the world – a title he held for 36 weeks between 2007 and 2008.

As a pro, Fowler won the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship in 2016 to leap to a career-high of fourth in the world overall.

Fowler has finished runner-up at three majors – namely the Masters in 2018, US Open and the Open Championship in 2014, and the Open Championship. He also finished third at the US PGA Championship in 2014.

10. Ian Poulter

With a father and older brother who are both keen golfers, Ian Poulter has been surrounded by golf his entire life. As such, it’s no wonder he’s had such an enviable career in the sport.

He started playing golf aged just four and had turned professional by the time he reached his 19th birthday.

Poulter’s first professional win came in 1999 at the Open de Côte d’Ivoire as part of the European Tour’s second-tier challenge tour. Later that year, he qualified for the European Tour itself. He has since won 12 events on the Tour, at the time of writing.

To date, Ian’s career highlights include his two World Golf Championship wins at the 2010 WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship and the 2012 WGC-HSBC Champions.

Although success at the majors has, so far, evaded him, Poulter came runner-up at the 2008 Open Championship and has finished in the top ten of major tournaments eight times.

11. Jay Haas

At his professional peak, Jay Haas, or Jaybird as he’s otherwise known, had a reputation for being one of the most consistent players on the PGA Tour. In fact, he competed in just shy of 800 events throughout his career.

Since turning professional in the mid-‘70s, Jay has more than made up for his lack of a major.

He won an impressive nine titles on the PGA Tour between 1978 and 1993, and he finished in the top five at three majors – the 1995 US Open, the 1995 Masters, and the 1999 US PGA Championship.

In 2006, Haas was given the Bob Jones Award, often considered the highest honour given by the US Golf Association, in recognition of his achievements and sportsmanship.

12. Matt Kuchar

Nine-time PGA Tour winner Matt Kuchar is another of the ‘major-less’ greats.

Once ranked fourth-best in the world, he’s also proved one of the highest earners in the sport too. He ended the 2018-19 season with mouthwatering career earnings of more than $50m.

Matt represented the US at the Ryder Cup in 2010, and he made history at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio by becoming the first recipient of an Olympic bronze medal for golf for more than 100 years. Not since 1904 had such a feat been achieved.

Though a major is yet to grace his trophy cabinet, Matt has had several close shaves – his second-place finish at the 2017 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale Golf Club being the closest of them all.

13. Jeff Maggert

If you live on a golf course as a child, chances are you’re going to grow up with an interest in golf. That was the case for Jeff Maggert, anyway.

A Texas upbringing laid the first foundations for a man that would later become one of the best golfers never to win a major.

Maggert turned professional in 1986 and, by the early ‘90s, had already witnessed success both at home and overseas. He won the Malaysian Open in 1989 and the very first Vines Classic in 1990 – an event held on the Australasian Tour until 2005.

During his career, Maggert represented the US three times at the Ryder Cup and once at the Presidents Cup.

At the 2003 Masters tournament, he was the 54-hole leader, with victory looking well within reach. However, a disappointing final round, which included triple and quintuple bogeys and two balls in the water, meant he ended up in fifth place – which to this day remains his best career finish at the tournament.

Maggert has finished in the top five at the majors eight times in his career. Namely:

  • 4x US Open: 1995, 1997, 2002, 2004
  • 2x PGA Championship: 1995, 1997
  • Open Championship: 1996
  • Masters: 2003

14. Sam Torrance

Sam Torrance’s transatlantic and European triumphs more than make up for his lack of a major title. His distinctive, daring, long driving, and accurate short iron playing style certainly proved fruitful on that front.

From 1981 to 1995, Sam played in eight straight matches and was Europe’s winning Ryder Cup captain in 2002. In 1985, he sank the winning putt to deny the US their first title for almost 30 years, and two years later, in 1987, Sam was part of the Europe side which tasted victory on American soil for the first time in history.

With 21 wins on the European Tour, only Colin Montgomerie has accumulated more without also winning a major.

Sam also represented Scotland eleven times at the Golf World Cup and has been awarded an MBE and OBE for his outstanding contributions to the sport.