TaylorMade r7

An updated "inverted cone" in the cavity -- it's larger and oval in shape -- means more of the face produces faster ball speeds on mis-hits. That is, your misses carry nearly as far as center strikes. You'll appreciate the easy and high launch, and skilled players can embrace a fair amount of workability. By comparison, this model has a thicker top line, wider sole and a bit more offset than r7 TP. $840 (steel), $1,080 (graphite); taylormadegolf.com

Photo: Greg Lord