There is no doubt in my mind that COVD-19 has had an overwhelmingly positive impact on the golf industry. Feel free to drop me a note if you disagree, and I will be happy to tell you why you’re wrong. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said when it comes to the 2021 PGA Merchandise Show. With social distancing, restrictions on travel, and plain ole common sense, it just wouldn’t be right to conduct the ordinary in-person people on top of people PGA Merchandise Show.
Enter the Virtual 2021 PGA Merchandise Show! Sherry Major and the team of professionals that work year long preparing for the most significant event in the industry did a stellar job making sure the show went on. Lucky for me, my undergraduate degree is in Computer Science, and my Master’s Degree in Technology Management, so if anyone is up to the task of going virtual, it has to be me, right? Yes and no! Each day I made my way through all my scheduled appointments, virtual sessions, on-demand content, and virtual media center. I have to admit it felt a lot like real work! All kidding aside, thank god for my technical background; otherwise, my streak of posting a PGA Merchandise Show Recap might have come to an end.
Things We’re Excited To Try This Year!
Game Improvement Golf Balls
The new Bridgestone e12 Contact golf balls promise to be the ROCKSTAR game-improvement ball. Coming to a pro shop near you in February, the retail cost for a dozen e12 Contact will be $29.99. What’s so great about the e12 Contact? Why ball contact, of course. The e12 Contact features a unique contact-force dimple design that delivers 38% more contact between the ball and golf club. The result is a straighter and further hit golf ball! We’re going to try them out and let you know! Keep an eye on our social media to see if they make a difference!
Wilson D9 Irons
Just launched are the new D9 Irons from Wilson Golf. A few years ago, you might remember when we took Wilson up on an offer to test out the C300 iron set. I’m happy to announce we’re taking them up on their offer to test out the new D9 irons. Follow the magazine as a new set has already arrived, and Golf Aficionado staff writer, Paul Stacey, will be chronicling his experience and results as he switches from his current Callaway Apex AF-16s irons to the D9 irons.
Wilson also made news at the show making sure everyone knew about their recent signing of top amateur turned pro, John Augenstein. John is next up in the youth movement on the PGA Tour, and Wilson is betting he’s going to deliver. What’s In The Bag (WITB)? He’ll be playing the following from Wilson Golf; W LABS 3WD, Utility 3-iron, STAFF Model 4-iron, STAFF Model Blades 5-9, STAFF Model Wedges 52° & 56°.
Putters by SIK Golf
OK, so when we talk putters, we’re usually talking about Tyson Lamb or Swag Golf, but after spending some time talking with the SIK Golf team, we’re hoping to start talking a lot about them! I mentioned my technology background. Let’s say SIK Golf is all about Technology! We instantly hit it off. After all, this is the company Bryson DeChambeau, the mad scientist himself, trust on the greens. If you haven’t heard about SIK Golf, be sure to check out their site to learn more about what makes their putters more technologically advanced than others and how they can help you find the perfect putter fit for your game.
Bushnell Phantom 2
At the show this week, our friends at Bushnell Golf launched the Phantom 2, our favorite “puck” GPS device. The Phantom 2 has evolved with numerous upgrades from its predecessor. The most exciting feature is the introduction of GreenView distances, complete with movable pin placements for more accurate distances. Another cool feature is “Dynamic Green Mapping,” which allows the Phantom 2 to provide distance measurements based on a golfer’s line of play. The Phantom 2 will feature an upgraded magnet leveraging the hugely popular “BITE Technology.” We’ll be replacing our current Phantom with the new Phantom 2. Keep an eye on social media for more updates!
Shot Scope V3
Our friends from across the pond in the UK have been working hard to improve their GPS/Gamification technology and finally have the Shot Scope V3 back in stock! For those not familiar with Shot Scope, it’s a GPS watch that pairs with sensors on your club to track your performance on the course while providing you with detailed GPS information on the watch. We’ve never tried the product before, but after being impressed by the virtual demo, we’re going to try it this year and let you know how it goes!
Altaz LCD Panel Rangefinder
The category of “Will it work, or it won’t work” enter the Altaz LCD Rangefinder. Modeled after the old camcorder designs that feature a side LCD screen, the Altaz rangefinder attracts golfers that hate the traditional spyglass view. Specifically targeted at golfers who wear glasses or sunglasses during the round, the Altaz will feature a camera showing a live view and yardage stats. Altaz is targeting July to release their new rangefinder. We’ll be interested in testing this out and seeing just what golfers think about this new twist on the rangefinder!
In Closing
So, it’s Friday afternoon, and I’m at home putting the finishing touches on my PGA Merchandise Show Recap. Typically, my feet are sore, and I’m worn out from all the walking miles trying to find those gems hidden within the Orlando Convention Center. I have to admit. I miss the in-person experience, friends I typically only get to see once a year, meeting new people in person, putting my hands on all the latest golf equipment. Like everything in life, you make the most of it. Kudos to the staff at the PGA Merchandise Show for rolling with the punches and launching a successful Virtual version of the PGA Show!