Our testers struck 60,000 balls over two weeks, and the process cost more that $150,000. We invited every major equipment manufacturer to participate (Cobra and Titleist declined).
The journey from opening boxes of clubs to the final ClubTest results produced some surprising winners--and losers. So use this guide to learn about what makes sense for you. If some of these sticks make your short list, demo them on the range and the course before you buy. No matter what we write, nothing replaces hands-on experience. It's also a good idea to get a custom-fitting once you've found your dream set.
Drivers | Game-Improvement Irons | Better-Player Irons | Fairway Woods | Hybrids
HOW WE DO CLUBTEST
Our testers do the work, you reap the benefits!
We received thousands of applications at GOLF.com for 40 cherished ClubTest spots. GOLF Magazine staffers reviewed each form, searching for players who demonstrated an understanding and appreciation of equipment as well as an inquisitive nature. We trimmed the field and required finalists to provide swing videos.
Ultimately, we picked 40 readers for ClubTest. Their handicaps range from 0 to 20 — one-third are single-digit handicaps, two-thirds are double-digits. Those selected fall evenly into three age brackets — 20 to 39 years old, 40 to 49 and 50 or older. Here's a typical ClubTest day at Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando:
