Archive for August 2009
Top Golf Glove Picks
29. August 2009 by Tee It Up Pro Shop.
Golf accessories don’t have to just be about style, and golf gloves are a great example of this. Golf can be tough on your hands, so purchasing a quality pair to protect your hands and grip the club and keep your fingers from getting hurt is a good idea. To help you maintain that grip you have been working so hard on, get a pair of golf gloves.
Our top picks for gloves are:
- Intech Ti-Cabretta Men’s Golf Glove
- Callaway X Series Men’s Golf Glove
- Top Flite Feel Cadet Men’s Golf Glove
Sky Caddie - An Overview
28. August 2009 by Tee It Up Pro Shop.
If in the past, golfers depended on good caddies to help them move around the golf course. Sky Caddie has become the modern assistant that is not only knowledgeable but also very accurate. What exactly is the job of a caddie? Well, carrying the golf crosses is not everything, the person for the job should have good information on the distances and be able to advise the player according to it. This kind of service allows the golf player to concentrate only on the shooting technique; caddies are usually commonly employed by professional golfers and not by amateurish players.
A Sky Caddie eliminates all the disadvantages of playing on a course one doesn’t know. Sky Caddie is an electronic device that indicates the distances to all potential targets. The mapping and recording of this information is possible by the use of high precision survey-grade equipment that stores all the data corresponding to the various points on the golf course. An alternative to Sky Caddie, satellite images proved highly affordable but unreliable, and ceased to be used for the application. Experts rate Sky Caddie as the golf gear item that will save you up to five shots if you use it correctly.
Different types of softwares can be uploaded on Sky Caddie for a wide range of applications: thus, commentators at golf championships use the device in order to transmit viewers how far the golfers shoot and what chances they have to go for the hole. Moreover, the use of Sky Caddie enables the creation of performance statistics for each golfer on every hole in the course. Such applications have brought great Sky Caddie reviews from golfing experts who label it as the most accurate golf GPS system ever designed. All the courses that can be downloaded in Sky Caddie as they have been previously mapped by professionals.
With Sky Caddie you can measure both the depth and the shape of the green parts of the course as well as the angles and distances necessary for the shots. Among the technical features we could count the automatic back-light, the rechargeable battery and the water-resistant case, not to mention that it only requires one hand operation. Nevertheless, one disadvantage has nevertheless been reported in relation to the design of Sky Caddie: you have to keep it dry permanently on rainy rounds. Some users even complained of not being able to upload course programs and they sent the product back to the producer. For such cases the buyer needs to contact the manufacturing company in order to get a viable solution to the problem.
Know Your Golf Clubs - Seven Characteristics You Need To Be Aware Of
28. August 2009 by Tee It Up Pro Shop.
By Steve Lee
Most of the golf advice available to improve our game centers around tips and drills designed to “achieve a better swing” or “hit the ball further”. Whilst this information may be useful, little or none of it ever takes account of one of the most important factors that will allow us to play the best golf we are capable of playing.
Most golf improvement advice concentrates on helping to achieve a better golf swing or getting more distance through the use of tips and drills.
Whilst this information may be useful, little or none of it ever takes account of one of the most important factors that will allow us to play the best golf we are capable of playing; i.e. the specification of our clubs. Indeed, the over-zealous teacher may try to cure a pupil’s slice by trying to change their swing when, in fact, the problem may not be the swing but the clubs!
In this article - which will concentrate on the irons - I shall be giving an overview of the seven key elements of the golf club that should be taken into account when assessing which clubs are best for you.
1 - Head Design
Essentially there are two types of Iron Head Design; cavity back or “perimeter weighted”, and muscle back or “blades”. As the name suggests, the former is distinguishable by the recessed area in the back of the head and the visible re-distribution of the weight around the perimeter; conversely, “blades” are identifiable by their relatively flat backs.
The purpose of re-distributing the weight around the head perimeter in cavity backs is, putting it technically, to increase “the moment of inertia”. This is the scientific way of saying “reducing club head twist on off-center hits”.
Because the vast majority of golfers are inconsistent in the way they strike the ball, the more “forgiving” cavity back clubs will be better suited to them than the “blade”.
2 - Length
Firstly let me dispel one of the great myths of golf and that is, “The taller you are, the longer your clubs should be”.
One of the primary factors to take into account when determining how long your clubs should be is the length of your arms, so it is important that this is taken into account when deciding which clubs to buy.
To be fair, “standard” length clubs will suit the majority of players (that’s why they’re “standard”!), but it is something you need to be aware of.
3 - Lie
The ideal lie of the club is that which allows the sole to be flat to the ground at impact.
If a club is too “upright” at impact, the heel “digs” in, turns the head to the left resulting in a shot to the left. Conversely, a club that is too “flat” at impact will dig its toe in and cause a shot to the right.
I have been careful to define the lie at impact. This is very important; just because the sole of the club may sit flat to ground when you set up, doesn’t mean it will be in the same position at impact. This is because the shaft will bow during the swing with the result that the lie angle at impact will be flatter.
4 - Loft
Generally speaking the “standard” loft on clubs is pretty much suited to everyone.
There is, however, one thing to be aware of if you consider altering the loft on your clubs and that is by adjusting the loft you will change the “bounce”. The effects of “bounce” are outside the scope of this article but I will just say that if you considered increasing the loft on your clubs with the intention of making it easier to get the ball airborne, you would increase the “bounce” which could actually be counter-productive insofar as you would risk “thinning” your shots.
5 - Shaft Flex
The importance of having the correct flex in your shafts cannot be over-stated. This is a huge subject but, generally speaking, the faster you swing the golf club the stiffer your shafts will need to be.
The shaft is really the most important component of the golf club and is often described as the “Engine”; get the right shaft flex and your game can improve beyond recognition.
6 - Grips
We all know there are a huge variety of grips on the market today and it is important to find a grip that feels comfortable; you may prefer the softer feel of a tour velvet, a rougher-feeling corded or a combination of the two.
It is also extremely important to check the wear on your grips as worn grips can result in the golf club twisting at impact.
Last but not least you should be measured for the size of grip that is right for you. The wrong size grip can seriously affect your performance by encouraging, for example, a slice or hook.
7 - Weight
There are really two elements in one here.
First, the overall weight of the club: second, the swing weight. The first is self-explanatory: the second can be defined as the relationship between the weight in the grip end of the club and that in the head end.
Again, this is more about comfort than anything else, and as long as the club feels comfortable there is no need to worry too much about weight considerations which is, in itself, a subject that can warrant much discussion.
If you are about to buy a new set of clubs or are not playing as well as you would like with your existing set, a little time spent considering the above Elements could result in a huge improvement in your golf game.
Steve combines many years experience in golf club technology with that gained through his contact with golfers of all levels from beginner to tour pro and would like to share that expertise with his readers. He has put together a complimentary report containing some innovative golf swing ideas which you can access now at Golf Advice Detective.
Article republished from Copy & Paste Articles
Grooves In Golf Clubs - Will You Be Affected By The New Rules?
27. August 2009 by Tee It Up Pro Shop.
By Steve Lee
Many of you may have heard about the change in the rules relating to grooves in golf clubs which comes into effect on 1st January 2010, but do you know whether or not you will be affected?
Extensive research was carried out by the R & A and the USGA which showed that the modern “V” groove configuration can result in golfers generating the same amount of spin from the rough as from the fairway. It would have been interesting to see what the research consisted of, as I think it is evident to most of us just watching on our TV screens how the top players often achieve incredible control from what can sometimes look like an almost unplayable lie to the average golfer.
In an attempt to place a premium on accuracy by making shots more difficult from the rough, the two governing bodies are to limit groove volume and groove edge sharpness on all clubs excluding drivers and putters with a loft greater than or equal to 25 degrees. As a general rule, therefore, this will apply to a 5 iron and above. All existing limitations on grooves and face roughness will remain.
The new rules will apply to all new models of clubs manufactured on or after 1st January 2010 although models existing at that date will still allowed to be manufactured until the end of 2010.
This begs the question, “won’t Tour Pros just stick with models manufactured before 1st January 2010?” Unfortunately for them, the R & A and USGA are far too ‘cute’ for that because as from that date they will make it a “Condition of Competition” at the top professional level that they use clubs manufactured under the new rules.
But what about you and me? Well, you’ll be pleased to know there’s not too much for us to worry about unless you are a pro or top amateur where the new rules will be introduced in stages. Models existing at 31st December 2009 and manufactured any time until 31st December 2010, which meet the current regulations, will continue to conform until at least 2024 and even then the time frame may be extended when the governing bodies review it in 2020.
So, no need to worry about having to fork out another small fortune on 1st January 2010 for a conforming set of irons but be aware that if your cash is burning a hole in your pocket and you take a fancy to that shiny new model after then, just double-check that those irons do conform!
Steve’s mission is to share the wide variety of golf advice, concepts and ideas that he has come across over his many years in the golf business, and makes no apology if some readers find any of the material radical or outside the box, particularly if it stimulates lively debate. He has put together a complimentary report to help your golf game which you can access now at http://www.golfadvicedetective.com
Article republished from Copy & Paste Articles
Improve Your Game With A Golf Swing Trainer
25. August 2009 by Tee It Up Pro Shop.
Does your golf game cause you frustration? Is hitting the ball straight a major problem for you? Do you miss par because of the lack of speed and distance? If you answer yes to any of these questions, continue reading, since this article is just what you have been searching for to help you improve your game of golf.
Every golfer knows that the golf swing is the central point of each round of golf. Whether you like it or not, the most likely problem in your golf game is your swing. You have to do something about improving your golf swing to improve your game. If you do not put some time and effort into regularly improving your golf swing, you cannot get out on the course and expect any differences. With the help of a golf swing trainer, you can improve your game drastically.
You may consider paying an actual person who is a golf swing trainer for lessons to improve and correct any swing problems you have. On the other hand, you may be interested in a golf swing trainer, device that looks like a golf club to help you develop the correct form while using it regularly. Of course, your choice for which to take on for improving your golf swing will depend upon your budget.
If you decide to go with a golf swing coach then be prepared to pay a little more. However, this is probably the best way you can improve your swing and your golf game in the shortest amount of time. The best thing you can do is to record your golf swing training using a video recorder. After the lesson is over, you’ll be able to keep watching the lesson over and over again. Before you schedule your lesson, be sure this is okay with your golf swing trainer. Most of them should be fine with it.
You may consider the use of golf swing equipment to aid you if you cannot afford the money and or time to employ a live golf swing trainer. There is an assortment of devices available to you that can help and they come in a wide range of prices.
The best way to figure which golf swing trainer is right for you is to ask around. If you have any friends ask them if they use any equipment to help improve their golf swing. This is probably the best way to find something that works.
Do a bit of online research and read product guides and then the reviews of items that may be helpful for improving your golf swing. When you find something that may be helpful, do a bit more research. You will find that most often there is either positive or negative feedback for the product by actual users.
Develope Your Own Set-up Routine
25. August 2009 by Tee It Up Pro Shop.
How to golf for beginners and having your own set-up routine is important. Whether your a beginner or intermediate player you have to have your own unique set-up routine that you use to prepare yourself for every shot.
Everyone has their own perspective and outlook about golf. It is how you approach the game that will determine how good a golfer you will become. You should be willing to accept some failures when playing golf because I guarantee it will happen. It is the greatest game there is and if your willing to put in some practice and develop your own routine while your playing you can become very good at this game.
I am going to explain to you how I set-up for my shot and it should help you as well. For myself, golf is a very relaxing game. it doesn't matter to me if I shoot a good score or a bad score, I just like playing. I enjoy the beutiful scenery, the smell of the fresh cut grass, but the one thing that attracts me to golf the most is the fact that this is a game that can never be mastered. You always have room to improve.
I always go to the golf coarse early enough so I have time to warm up on the practice tee. I cannot stress enough the importance of getting loose and warmed up before you start play. This is when your mental preparations will begin. I
have been playing golf for so long that I have my own personal set-up routine for addressing the ball. You should develop your own personal routine as well.
When at the practice tee I will place an iron on the ground to help me with my alignment. This helps me when I set my feet to make sure they are placed properly. I will position myself behind the ball so I can visualise the shot in my head. When I am setting up for a shot I start out with my feet together and I check my distance from the ball. Once that is done I will position the club face behind the ball, making sure it is square to the ball and aligned with my target.
I then set my left hand first making sure it is in the proper position. If my left hand is in good position than my right hand fits right into place. I then spread my feet apart starting with my left foot first. I always start with my left foot because my left foot determines where the ball is placed in my stance. This will also allow me to make any adjustments of the ball in relation to my stance.
After I have placed my feet correctly, I will slightly open up my left foot towards the target. This will allow me to clear my hips easier since my flexibility has tightened up over the years. it is not that easy when you are my age to rotate your body through the swing.
With my set-up now complete I am prepared to deliver my swing. If I have done everything correctly the ball will go where I aimed it.
Golf is all about repetition and repeating the same swing over and over. If you develop your own set-up routine this will take you one step closer to being a more consistent golfer.
Ralph Miller is the author of this article and the creator of How To Golf For Beginners and Advanced Players. You can visit his site at http://www.HowToGolf-RM.com and while your there you can register to recieve 7 Free Swing Lessons.
What A Beginner Golfer Needs For Golf Accessories
24. August 2009 by Tee It Up Pro Shop.
All sports have their own attire or equipment you use to play the game effectively. The basic golf equipment you need is a golf ball and some golf clubs. Those are the simple things you need for golf, but you really can get into much more as you will need a golf bag to hold your clubs, and then you may also be interested in the hybrid golf clubs which is a newer club technology. Golf balls have tiny dimples on them to improve the distance they travel, and are essentially just small little white balls. The clubs include the shaft of the club and the head that is different depending on the club type, whether a driver or putter.
From the Golf clubs you get, one of the first and foremost clubs you want is a golf club driver. Drivers are used for distance, and are used at the beginning of a hole to drive the ball the farthest distance possible. Your landscape will dictate what type of golf club driver will make the right drive. You will then also need your golf club wedges and irons, and putters to complete your golf club set. You can definitely find all of these golf accessories new at any golf store, but you may also look into buying a used golf club iron set if you are starting out and want to learn the game.
Other golf accessories will also need to be purchased after you get the initial basics of a golf club and golf balls. One being the golf bag, which is storage for your clubs while on the course and may also hold other things like your water bottle. Your golf shoes and golf attire will be something you need to look at next, so you are comfortable while playing the eighteen holes. Finally, you have smaller items like the golf club tee and golf club headcovers. Headcovers are optional and not everyone uses them. For those who play often and don’t want to keep walking the holes, you can use a handy golf push cart to get around the golf course. You can find much more tips and reviews of golf clubs by exploring the Golf club informer at http://www.golfclubinformer.com.
