Rory McIlroy talks about his next Major title. (Image: Getty)
After Jay Monahan’s press conference regarding the future of the PGA Tour, Rory McIlroy agrees with his decision to stay in the lead of the Tour and the new PGA Tour Enterprises. In McIlroys Wednesday press conference, prior to the Players Championship, he emphasises the importance of bringing the game back together and move on. McIlroy oppend up about his difficulties winning another Major and if he thinks he can capture his next Major-Title this year.
Here’s his opinion on how the pressure added up over the last ten years without a Major title: “It does, but then at the same time, I look at my record in the majors over the last couple of years, and I’ve definitely started to perform much more consistently in them.”
“Look, I’m under no illusion that the clock is ticking and it has been 10 years since I’ve won one of them, and I’ve had chances, and those just haven’t went my way. I just need to keep putting myself in those positions, and sooner or later it’s going to happen.”
Rory McIlroy defends Jay Monahan
“You look at what Jay has done since he took over,” McIlroy said in the Wednesday press conference in TPC Sawgrass. “The media rights deal, navigating us through COVID, the strategic alliance with the DP World Tour. I would say creating PGA Tour Enterprises, we were just able to accept a billion and a half dollars in the business, people can nit-pick and say he didn’t do this right or didn’t do that right, but if you actually step back and look at the bigger picture, I think the PGA Tour is in a far stronger position than when Jay took over.”
Monahan spoke about the new alliance with the SSG (Strategic Sports Group) and the new funds coming with the newly created PGA Tour Enterprises. Tough informations regarding the PIF are highly requested Monahan did hold back and just stated, that meetings were “accelerating”.
Rory McIlroy: “We need to get this thing over and done”
Like many fans and players, Rory McIlroy urges the policy board and PGA Tour Enterprises to come to a conclusion and to “get this thing over and done”, falling right in line with his latest statements about the LIV Golf Tour and Liv players getting involved in the Ryder Cup and a potential World Tour.
“I feel grateful that I was on the PGA Tour board at the point in time when I was. I feel like it will stand to me down the line if I ever want to get deeper into the business side of things, whether that’s in golf or in other domains. It’s different now, though. You’ve got two boards on Tour. One is really a business board, and sort of that priority is growing the growth of the business of the PGA Tour, and then the policy board, which I was on, was about making rules and slow play and whatever else.”
“The business board to me would be something — if an opportunity came along in the future and I felt like it was the right time, would maybe be something that I would like to get involved in again.”
“We need to improve fan experience”
Like Jay Monahan, Rory McIlroy talked about enhancing the fan experience. “Yeah, so to me, like this is the problem with a members’ organization. Things are created for the members. Then once those things are created, you’ve got to go sell those things to fans, sponsors, media.”
“To me, that seems a little backwards. I think what needs to happen is you need to create things for the fans, for the sponsors, for the media, and then you have to go sell that to the players, tell them to get on board with that, because if they get on board and we’re all part of the business now, if the business does better, we do better. That seems pretty simple to me.”
The new Duca del Cosma golf shoe range 2024. (Photo: Duca del Cosma)
Luxury golf fashion brand Duca del Cosma is today unveiling its bold SS24 golf shoe range headlined by a pioneering lightweight outsole technology and a host of vibrant new designs that dare to be different from other models on the market.
Duca del Cosma: New sole for even more comfort
The functional Airplay 15 outsole is applied to four new styles that enable golfers to enjoy out-of-the-box comfort and game-enhancing performance by using the most premium materials in a smart sole design. Crafted to reduce foot fatigue, while maximizing support and stability through a sturdy and lightweight construction, the outsole has been developed and tested in collaboration with brand ambassadors, including DP World Tour star Joost Luiten and LPGA Tour player Kelly Tan.
Standout golf shoes across the four distinctive style categories – ‘Pro’, ‘Fashion’, ‘Sporty’ and ‘Classic’ – include the ultra-modern DAVANTI men’s and chic OLIVERA women’s sneaker-style designs; classic DAVINCI men’s style and dazzling AVIVA women’s shoe in a prominent animal print; plus the limited-edition JUBILEE and ALANA styles that are a nod to the brand’s 20-year anniversary. Several award-winning shoes remain in the collection with the addition of striking new colour combinations to elevate the product offering to even greater heights.
“We want to push the boundaries of modern golf shoe design”
“This latest range shows exactly why we dare to be different and continue to push the boundaries of modern golf shoe design,” said Dolf Stoffberg, CEO at Duca del Cosma. “These styles really bridge the gap between on and off course wear, while featuring a stunning array of colours and patterns to ensure golfers stand out for all the right reasons,” he added.
The Airplay 15 outsole features an advanced dual-component build comprised of a high shock absorption CMEVA midsole for added comfort and flexibility, plus an offset medial toe bumper and traction nubs on the durable outsole unit to deliver optimal performance and uncompromising grip during the golf swing. A strategically positioned heel-strike to the rear of the outsole improves the walking gait and promotes a solid stride.
Further innovations in the SS24 collection include a waterproof sock system with OnSteam® recyclable microfibre technology applied to several shoes, while the breathable ARNEFLEX® insert sole is also manufactured using recycled materials and delivers unrivalled all-day comfort. A total of 11 outsole technologies across four different Duca Fit Systems ensures there is a golf shoe in the range to fit all foot types and sizes.
The new models from Duca del Cosma at a glance
The DAVANTI shoe incorporates the super technical Airplay 15 outsole to offer top golf shoe performance and ultimate versatility. Offering a contemporary look, it can be worn on the course as well as in everyday life and is made using a combination of premium Nappa leather and abrasion resistant onDura Nilo technical nylon in contrasting colours to make a strong statement. The waterproof construction delivers protection in wet conditions, while the offset toe bumper provides extra durability on areas most prone to wear. The top-quality design is available in three striking colourways – Light Blue, Green/Grey and Marina.
The 2024 Davanti golf shoe. (Photo: Duca del Cosma)
The sophisticated DAVINCI shoe enhances the brand’s popular classic golf shoe line-up and provides a truly luxurious appearance for those seeking an extra special design to confidently stride down the fairways. The waterproof shoe features an upper crafted from embossed full-grain leather to offer incredible comfort straight out of the box and is offered in White and Light Blue with a colourful Airplay 11 outsole to catch the eye.
The award-winning POSITANO shoe is now available in two new vivid colour combinations – White/Blue and White/Blue/Red. The award-winning waterproof shoe features the ultra- lightweight D-Eva outsole offering flexibility to ensure golfers can enjoy the walk in a lighter shoe without sacrificing crucial foot support.
The limited-edition men’s JUBILEE and women’s ALANA shoes have been designed to mark the brand’s 20-year anniversary and deliver a superb individual look. Both shoes incorporate a predominantly Red and White colour scheme and the new Airplay 15 outsole, while the JUBILEE features a distinctive silver emblem to the side of the shoe for an extra special look.
Among the other popular shoes in the men’s collection for 2024 are the GIRONA in three colours; sporty FLYER and GIORDANO shoes; plus the classic DANDY and CHURCHILL styles.
The award-winning BERNARDO and ORLANDO pro spiked designs are carried forward.
Even more choice for women in the 2024 season
The ultra-modern OLIVERA sneaker style shoe spearheads the women’s offering with its advanced design and supremely fashionable appearance. Crafted using various forms of premium Nappa leather, the stylish shoe really stands out from the crowd, especially in the Orchid/Pink colourway, which has been a best-selling colourway amongst stockists.
The new Olivera golf shoe. (Photo: Duca del Cosma)
The dazzling AVIVA shoe with its prominent animal print is sure to be popular with women golfers seeking a luxurious pair of golf shoes this season. The bold design offers best-in-class support via a heightened heel on the advanced Airplay 17 outsole and features a lightweight and breathable upper to ensure feet remain cool and dry all day long. For every pair sold, the brand will donate money to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre to help save the critically endangered King Cheetah that inspired the pattern on the trendy shoe’s upper.
Designed with fashion-conscious golfers in mind, the ALESI features an on-trend jacquard print with contrasting details to offer a supremely elegant look and feel. Available in two fashionable colours, the style incorporates the lightweight Airplay 17 outsole with strategically positioned traction points for a seamless combination of function and fit.
Other fashion-forward shoes in the women’s collection are the award-winning SERENA, BELLEZZA and ALEXA styles, plus the chic KING CHEETAH and BOREAL designs in two standout colours. The SABINA and AVANTI pro spiked models are carried forward.
The new Golf Pride Reverse Taper putt grip 2024. (Photo: Golf Pride)
Golf Pride, a leader in the golf industry, has introduced its newest product, the Reverse Taper putter grip. This grip, which will be available in retail stores and on golf courses from March 4, uses Reverse Taper technology. According to the manufacturer, this technology is designed to optimally support both hands during putting in order to ideally align the club head at the moment of ball contact.
Golf Pride Reverse Taper: Innovative technology for optimized performance
With its 75-year history and based on extensive consumer testing, Golf Pride developed the Reverse Taper putter grip. According to the manufacturer, this grip is designed to be slimmer at the top and wider at the bottom, which should help stabilize the top hand and reduce tension in the bottom hand, which in turn could lead to smoother acceleration through the stroke.
The grip is made of polyurethane, which the manufacturer says provides the right softness, texture and weight to give golfers more consistency and confidence. The grip is said to be soft to the touch, yet responsive and offers unique traction elements to aid speed control for both hands. It also features a vibrant color palette and visual cues and textures designed to support correct finger placement, regardless of the player’s preferred grip style. Despite the different sizes, the weight of each model remains the same, which the manufacturer claims ensures a balanced feel in the “sweet spot” and allows players to feel the club head throughout the swing.
The Reverse Taper is available in two sizes and three unique shapes
Round – Universally popular for all grip techniques, with a traditionally round upper section that transitions into a wider lower section. Pistol – A classic pistol grip designed to help establish the top hand, especially popular with players using the left-hand-low technique (for right-handed golfers). Flat – With a slightly oval shaped upper section, often favored by golfers using a palm-to-palm putting style.
“Within the putter grip category, we observed a trend in which manufacturers were actively trying to design products that removed the hands from the putting process, whereas our research indicates that by optimising the connection between the hands and grip, players can improve their performance,” says James Ledford, President of Golf Pride. “Through hundreds of concept iterations, our innovation team created Reverse Taper, which has tested quite positively with players of all skill levels.”
The new Motocaddy golfbags of the 2024 season. (Photo: Motocaddy)
Motocaddy is providing golfers with an abundance of choice this season by launching four brand new models in contemporary styling and colourways, while incorporating more spacious pockets and game-enhancing features than ever before. The latest bags include a new luxury M-TECH top of the range model, as well as all-new versions of the brand’s best-selling Dry-Series, feature-packed Club-Series and compact Lite-Series, alongside this season’s versatile HydroFLEX carry bag launched last Autumn.
The 2024 bag range is completed by the popular Pro-Series model and award-winning PROTEKTA organiser cart bag – bringing the total Motocaddy selection this year to seven feature-packed models in 19 different colourway combinations, making it easy for golfers to match an eye-catching and functional bag with the trolley of their choice.
“We continue to lead the way in providing golfers with the largest selection of golf bags designed specifically with trolley users in mind,” said Marketing Director, Oliver Churcher. “While it’s not easy to change something as popular as the previous Dry-Series, we believe we’ve enhanced the look and features on this year’s bag as well as the other new models to provide something to suit every golfer at different price points. We continually strive to improve our products to enhance the enjoyment for everyone out on the course,” he added.
The new Motocaddy card bag range 2024
Combining top-quality materials with luxury finishes, the new M-TECH cart bag is styled to complement any Motocaddy electric trolley, not just the premium trolley of the same name. Incorporating cutting-edge Carbon design and wide-ranging features, the new M-TECH bag includes 14 full-length dividers, a jumbo putter well, plus Chromed zip pullers and accessory hook. There are 10 spacious pockets – the most ever included within a Motocaddy bag – offering four options for garments, plus spaces for dry valuables, insulated food & drink items, and an easy-access external beverage pouch. Additional features include an umbrella sleeve, towel hook, strap passthrough channel, pen holder and scorecard pouch.
(Photo: Motocaddy)
As with each bag and trolley in the range, the M-TECH cart bag also features the brand’s exclusive EASILOCK® system that locks it onto a Motocaddy trolley and removes the need for a lower bag support strap. Two holes on the trolley’s lower bag support align with two removable pins on the base of the bag to ensure golfers can secure their bag more easily and quicker than ever before. The flagship M-TECH cart bag is available from March in a classy Black/Charcoal.
The new Dry-Series card bags 2024
Super-lightweight and 100% waterproof thanks to the durable TPU Nylon fabric, thermo sealed zips and heat-welded seams, the latest bags in the award-winning Dry-Series feature nine spacious pockets, 14 full-length dividers and easy-open Japanese YKK zips for snag free opening. Additional features include new thermoform panels for added styling and a premium feel not normally seen on waterproof bags, an umbrella sleeve, a Velcro glove patch, towel hook, pen holder and scorecard pouch, plus a removable panel at the front of the bag to allow for club cresting.
(Photo: Motocaddy)
The waterproof fabric is supported by a waterproof rain hood, with the bag providing easy-access carry handles and an anti-twist base for seamless transportation on and off the course. Including EASILOCK® compatibility, the new Dry-Series is also available from next month in four eye-catching trim colours (Blue, Red, Lime and Fuchsia). Lightweight and durable, the new feature-packed Club-Series offers a combination of value and style with nine generous pockets, 14 full-length dividers, an external umbrella holder and a dedicated putter well. Created using a durable Nylon fabric for a premium look, additional features include a towel and accessory hook, scorecard and pen holders and an anti-twist base. Available in three colour trim options (Red, Blue and Lime).
(Photo: Motocaddy)
The new Lite-Series from Motocaddy
Constructed from a super lightweight Nylon fabric, the new Lite-Series is the lightest (2.3kg) and most compact cart bag in the Motocaddy range. Incorporating seven pockets and 14 dividers in a spacious top layout, the Lite-Series includes an impressive selection of standout features, including a waterproof rain hood, towel and accessory hook, an umbrella loop, easy access carry handles, an anti-twist base and EASILOCK® compatibility. Available next month in Blue, Red or Lime trim colours.
(Photo: Motocaddy)
“By adding these four new cart bags to the popular HydroFLEX, Pro-Series and PROTEKTA options, we can offer golfers the most comprehensive choice available to match with their electric or push trolleys. We’re looking forward to seeing even more Motocaddy bags out on golf courses this season,” added Churcher. With updated modern styling, improved storage options and cutting-edge design, the latest HydroFLEX carry bag provides golfers with the flexibility they need throughout the season, especially during the wetter winter months. Incorporating game-enhancing features, the super lightweight and waterproof model offers golfers a comfortable carry bag option, featuring an innovative integrated stand system that also fits perfectly onto any Motocaddy trolley. Standout features include a moulded hip pad, a rear stand lock, and an easily adjustable dual carry strap with quick release connectors for ultimate comfort when carrying clubs around the course. Easy-open Japanese YKK zips, plus heat-welded seams and an easy-access rain hood provide excellent waterproof protection, while five full length dividers and five spacious pockets offer impressive storage for equipment and valuables. The HydroFLEX is available now in Blue, Lime or Red colourways.
Alison Lee signs as new Ecco Golf ambassador. (Photo: Ecco Golf)
Leaders in golf shoe innovation, ECCO GOLF, have announced the signing of LPGA Tour star Alison Lee to its team of brand ambassadors. The 29-year-old Los Angeles native brings a wealth of talent and joins off the back of her most impressive year on tour to-date.
Alison Lee becomes brand ambassador for Ecco Golf
The World Number 18’s journey into professional golf was meteoric, going from college golfer to LPGA Tour player in just a year and a half, before featuring at the 2015 Solheim Cup for Team USA.
Whilst Lee is still chasing her first LPGA Tour victory, she has stepped into the winners’ circle twice on the Ladies European Tour to-date, having won the Aramco Team Series Sotogrande in 2021, and the Aramco Team Series Riyadh in 2023.
Lee, who has been a fan of ECCO GOLF shoes for a number of years, will step into the 2024 season wearing ECCO GOLF TRAY. “I can’t wait to get started in 2024 wearing ECCO GOLF shoes. They are by far the most comfortable golf shoes I’ve ever worn, and having the opportunity to take the next step with the brand as a global ambassador is a wonderful opportunity,” she commented.
(Photo: Ecco Golf)
Timo Vollrath, Head of Global Marketing at ECCO GOLF, expressed his excitement about the new partnership: “We are thrilled to welcome Alison to the ECCO GOLF family,” he said. “Her impressive journey in golf perfectly embodies the values we have here at ECCO. We believe this partnership can help to elevate Alison’s game, and we’re excited to work with her in 2024 and beyond.”
The Ecco Golf Tray: a sporty sneaker for the golf course
The breathable and water-repellent golf sneaker seems to have won over Alison Lee. Thanks to Ecco’s Hydromax technology and a hard-wearing leather upper, the white studded shoe is said to be water-repellent and support good performance even in bad weather. The DriTan technology is said to save a lot of chemicals and water during the tanning process of the shoes. In addition, the E-DTS Twist sole with enlarged studs in high-wear areas ensures good grip in many conditions, according to Ecco Golf. The removable insole is also padded and breathable for even more comfort. With many exciting color variations, the shoe is also a visual highlight, which will also be seen on the fairways of the LPGA Tour in the future.
The new adidas TOUR360 golf show for the 2024 season. (Photo: adidas)
Heading into its 19th year of providing golfers with pinnacle performance in golf footwear, adidas completely redesigned its premium flagship footwear franchise from the inside out to introduce TOUR360 24. Wrapped in confidence, the newest chapter elevates every touchpoint for the foot with an eye on improving traction, stability and comfort to give golfers everything they need to perform their best on the course. The new footwear will come in both laced and BOA® models for men and women and will be available on adidas.com, the adidas app and at select retailers beginning Thursday, February 29.
The same way golf is a sport of constantly striving for perfection, adidas approaches each iteration of the TOUR360 with that same mindset. After pushing the TOUR360 to new heights in 2022, the brand utilized feedback from athletes and consumers around the world to target specific areas aimed at improving fit, durability and performance with this version. This in-depth and collaborative approach resulted in an elevated design with performance at the heart of every detail.
“For TOUR360 24, our objective was to take key learnings from nearly 20 years of TOUR360 development to enhance the performance of the shoe from the inside out,” said Masun Denison, global footwear director, adidas Golf. “We wanted to capture that feeling of confidence that comes when someone puts their foot into the shoe for the first time and gets excited to head to the first tee. The shoe features the classic signature look, but golfers will notice a difference in the way this one feels the minute they put them on.”
adidas Tour360 golf shoe: three key technologies
FIT: The new TOUR360 24 brings key technologies inside the shoe aimed at ensuring the footwear fits the right way. To offer golfers a better fit, adidas is introducing:
INSITE™ 2.0 Sockliner
Modified for TOUR360 24, this insole features updated shaping in the arch and heel aimed at improving fit and stability.
Internal 360WRAP
adidas included an internal fit sleeve on the sides of the tongue along with the new TORSION BRIDGE in the midsole that when combined is intended to give a feeling of 360 degree support throughout the swing.
Performance Last
TOUR360 24 is built on adidas’ performance last to help ensure fit consistency across other performance models in the range. Men’s models of TOUR360 24 will be offered in both medium and wide widths while the women’s model will be offered in medium width only.
PERFORMANCE: Perhaps one of the most critical pieces for golfers, the adidas team designed the new footwear specifically with performance in mind. Key features include:
TORSION BRIDGE
Comprised of a more rigid top plate and flexible bottom plate, this new TPU TORSION BRIDGE is designed to improve stability across the mid and forefoot for where golfers need it most, especially as they load and unload power through the swing. It also sits lower to the ground to help conform to uneven lies and surfaces.
JET BOOST / LIGHTSTRIKE
For the first time in golf, adidas is using JET BOOST in the heel, which fuses smaller, firmer energy capsules together to provide the ultimate blend of stability and comfort. By combining this technology with LIGHTSTRIKE in the forefoot, the adidas team sought to provide the perfect balance of cushioning and stability throughout the swing.
Replaceable THINTECH 7-spike outsole
Designed for optimal traction, the TPU outsole features replaceable spikes where golfers need them most. adidas also included flex grooves in the secondary traction, finished with high gloss to help reduce clogging in the footwear. adidas also placed a spike closer to the toe with an aim of allowing for better toe-off through the swing and improved power from the ground.
DURABILITY: Golfers find themselves in a variety of conditions as they play, so adidas included some key features to go along with the premium leather and microfiber materials to help the shoes last from season to season:
‘T-Shape’ suede microfiber heel
This new three-piece construction combines a soft, anti-abrasive sandwiched textile that runs from the center heel to the half collar to help reduce wear and tear over time while enhancing overall comfort.
Waterproof leather upper
This premium, soft, waterproof leather upper is designed for long-term durability and protection in wet conditions.
The adidas THINTECH Spikes. (Photo: adidas)
As part of the TOUR360 24 range, adidas is introducing a new BOA® model for men and women to provide another option for improved fit and performance. Hidden within the upper of the footwear, adidas collaborated with the BOA Technology team to create a shell pattern fit system that works in conjunction with the lining of the leather upper to enhance overall fit and function. Featuring the micro-adjustable Li2 dial, the system sits underneath a zipper shroud in the upper for a premium and clean aesthetic. Wrapping around the midfoot, golfers can feel even more locked-in as the BOA Li2 dial provides a customized fit.
The new TOUR360 24 will be available in a variety of colorways in laced and BOA versions for both men and women, along with a junior model inspired by the footwear, beginning Thursday, February 29 on adidas.com, the adidas app and select retailers worldwide.
Minjee Lee joines Callaway as staff professional in 2024. (Photo: Callaway)
Today Callaway Golf, one of the industry’s leaders in equipment design, performance, and innovation, announced a new multi-year staff pro agreement with global women’s golf superstar, Minjee Lee. With this announcement, Lee will carry 14 Callaway clubs in the bag, including an Odyssey Putter, plus a Callaway golf ball, bag, and glove.
Minjee Lee joins Callaway Golf for 2024
The 27-year-old Australian native has been a dominant player throughout her golf career. Lee was the #1 ranked Women’s Amateur prior to turning professional in 2014, and since then she has won 10 LPGA Tour events, including major victories at the 2021 Amundi Evian Championship and the 2022 U.S. Women’s Open. She recently won two LPGA events in 2023 at the Kroger Queen City Championship and the BMW Ladies Championship. Her brother Min Woo Lee is also a Callaway PGA TOUR Professional.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Callaway Staff, and I’m excited to see how their equipment will help my performance going forward,” Lee said. “They’re the most played club brand on the LPGA, so I’ve seen how good the product is, and how much it’s helped my brother take his game to the next level. Now that I’ve had a chance to try their new driver and the Chrome Tour Ball, I feel confident in my setup, and I know that this is the right decision for me.”
“Minjee is such a special talent, and we want to help her reach her goals, win more events, and compete on the biggest stages,” said Tim Reed, SVP of Pro Tour at Callaway Golf. “Our fitters have had a great experience so far working with her, listening to her feedback, and getting everything dialed for her game. We can’t wait to see what she achieves with our equipment in play.”
The new Part One Collection 2024 from Galvin Green. (Photo: Galvin Green)
Premium hi-tech golf apparel brand Galvin Green has today unveiled a new DRYVR™ line of 100% waterproof rainwear garments that headlines its functional 2024 Part One collection to ensure serious golfers are equipped for unpredictable weather conditions worldwide. Offering an unrivalled choice of responsibly sourced waterproofs on the market, the bluesign® approved DRYVR™ line-up consists of 21 jackets, hoodies and pants for men, women and junior golfers in a matchless choice of colour and size options. The long-lasting garments are crafted in more than 50 standout colourways using different forms of the widely trusted ‘Guaranteed to keep you dry’ GORE-TEX membrane fabric. “The depth of the new Galvin Green DRYVR™ collection is unrivalled in offering serious players the biggest choice of waterproofs on the market in an unmatched array of styles, colour choices and sizes,” said CEO Nicholai Stein. “Golfers are increasingly confronted by challenging wet weather conditions wherever they play around the world and our focus continues to be creating best-in-class outerwear they can rely on to keep them dry and able to perform at their best,” he added. The entire Part One collection features 36 brand new garments across five different layering categories, while many popular styles are carried over with the addition of new eye-catching colour combinations to suit several different outfit choices.
Galvin Green Part One 2024: eye-catching colors and 100 percent waterproof
Leading the DRYVR™ rainwear line-up is the new AMOS hooded jacket in GORE-TEX C-knit™ stretch fabric with slide and glide technology. The 100% waterproof and windproof jacket features a fitted hood with an elasticated drawstring for the perfect fit and adjustable cuffs and shaped sleeves to deliver complete freedom of movement during the swing. Suitable for both on and off the course wear, it also features a chest and two front pockets and comes in Navy, Forged Iron and Sharkskin. It is complimented by the best-selling ARMSTRONG jacket in GORE-TEX Paclite® Stretch fabric in two new colours, plus the mesh-lined ALBERT in a refreshing Navy/White option.The sporty LAYTON full-zip jacket and stylish LAURO vest are latest windproof and water-resistant INTERFACE-1™ garments. Both pieces feature Thermore® padding to deliver a top-level warming effect, while the LAWRENCE is offered in more bold colour combinations. The new DYLAN full-zip sweater with Thermore® padding spearheads the eco-generation INSULA™ range of warm mid-layers. Offering a soft and stretchy feel with top-level warmth, it is accompanied by the striking DAVE half-zip and DAWSON full-zip sweaters in super contemporary designs and daring colours, plus the lightweight DION half-zip. The award-winning INSULA™ mid-layer range is made using bluesign® approved materials and features garments crafted from recycled plastic bottles to minimize social and environmental impact.
The Dylan sweater from the Galvin Green Part One 2024 collection (Photo: Galvin Green)
The new MARCELO VENTIL8™ PLUS shirt is crafted using a pioneering drirelease® certified fabric to deliver superior moisture-wicking properties and thermal regulation on hot days. Other top styles include the stellar MIO in a 3-D print and the modern MATE shirt with a nuts & bolts print that is reminiscent of comic book franchises and superheroes. The highly breathable shirts offer UV 20+ protection and impressive quick-dry properties.
Galvin Green: A large selection of stylish textiles for women
In the women’s DRYVR™ offering, the popular ALLY jacket in GORE-TEX Paclite® Stretch fabric is now offered in a chic White/Cool Grey option to deliver a super eye-catching appearance. Shaped sleeves and adjustable cuffs deliver easy movement and an elasticated drawstring at the hem offers the perfect fit. The dazzling AIDA and ANYA jackets with mesh lining are available in two and three colour options respectively and come in sizes XS-XXL. A new addition to the multipurpose INTERFACE-1™ jacket range is the sleek LUCILLE padded vest with a contrasting full-length zipper. Offering a top-level warming effect, the windproof and water-resistant piece is joined by the full-zip LARISSA jacket in two new colours. For colder days, the elegant DESTINY full-zip sweater in INSULA™ fabric delivers incredible warmth and comfort and comes in five vibrant colourways to brighten up the fairways. It is complemented by the lightweight DIORA sweater and DAGMAR hoodie providing next to skin comfort and a soft feel. All three garments come in the stunning Camelia Rose option. Offering the opportunity for distinctively stylish pairings in the leading VENTIL8™ PLUS range is the striking MARGIE shirt and NICOLINE leggings. Both styles feature a free-flowing lined print to deliver a bold look, while the matching MAYLA shirt and MACY skort, both in Navy with contrasting White details, offers another fashionable outfit choice. Further opportunity for a sophisticated look comes in the tasteful MARSHA skort in up to four bright colours.
The Mate polo shirt for men and women from the Part One 2024 collection (Photo: Galvin Green)
Galvin Green: Trendy junior options
The leading junior pieces include the new REMI full-zip jacket and RONIE vest, both made from INTERFACE-1™ fabric, plus the REX INSULA™ sweater. The ultra-modern RICKIE shirt in VENTIL8™ PLUS fabric resembles a superhero theme print to round out a top junior offering. The 2024 Part One collection is completed by a selection of shorts and skorts, SKINTIGHT™ thermal garments, plus accessories such as caps, belts and bandanas.
The new Under Armour Drive Pro and Drive Pro SL golfshoes of the 2024 season. (Photo: Under Armour)
Designed with direct feedback from three-time major winner Jordan Spieth and Under Armour’s other PGA Tour athletes, including Maverick McNealy, Under Armour works closely with its golf athletes to create performance-enhancing products that meet the needs of golfers of all skill levels in both Spiked and Spikeless models.
Under Armour Drive Pro golf shoe: Stability, traction and performance
The new Drive Pro and Drive Pro SL deliver golfers the ultimate stability, traction, and performance through the innovative Swing Support System TM.
Developed with world-renowned biomechanist JJ Rivet, the revolutionary 3-layer Swing Support System TM supports the natural motion of the foot, with biomechanically correct diagonal and lateral support for golfers to unlock the power of their swing.
The Swing Support System is made up of three key advancements to take performance to new levels, while being lighter than common tour shoes in the market.
Starting from the ground up, smarter traction is delivered through a combination of Under Armour’s new custom S3 Spikes and the Tour Flex Pro Spike. Developed exclusively for Under Armour with CHAMP MacNeill Engineering, the S3 Spikes are utilised in the medial heel and lateral forefoot at the optimal angle to resist rotation in the golf swing, allowing you to harness more power.
(Photo: Under Armour)
In the midsole, Under Armour has developed the only dual-density midsole in golf. Featuring Under Armour’s HOVR TM foam and more supportive Charged Cushioning TM where it’s needed to help guide the foot in the golf swing. By using softer HOVR foam in the medial side, your foot is able to sink into the shoe when you apply your peak force and helps transition your weight more efficiently through the ball.
In the upper, Under Armour’s Swing Support Strap is fully connected to the with the S3 Spikes and integrated lacing system, providing optimised 360-degree lock-in from lateral ball to medial instep.
Under Armour Drive Pro SL: The innovative spikeless model
The Drive Pro SL replicates the same innovations in the midsole and the upper but with some notable innovations in its spikeless outsole. With a traction control plate and a hybrid outsole utilizing rubber and TPU, the Drive Pro SL provides ground penetration & torsional rigidity through the use of TPU, with rubber adding flexibility and friction to ensure there’s no compromise in performance by moving from a spiked to spikeless outsole.
Every spikeless traction point has been mapped to different heights and positions throughout the sole to ramp up performance further. By removing uniformity, Under Armour has been able develop an outsole that truly performs at the same level as spiked tour shoes.
“We’re excited to kick the new year off by releasing industry-leading footwear that help golfers take their game to the next level. The Drive Pro Series is years in the making, and we’re excited to get golfers’ reactions as they test them out on the course. Utilising Under Armour’s unique technologies, such as HOVR and the Swing Support System, we were able to create a golf shoe that pushes the boundaries of performance innovation to stand out in the market.” – Jake Haley, Senior Product Line Manager for Golf Footwear, Under Armour.
“Being a golfer isn’t a traditional 9-5 job. You’re on your feet walking the course for such a long time so it’s so important to be equipped with footwear that will help your body achieve its best on the course. I’m ecstatic that Under Armour has developed the Drive Pro, that combines comfort, style, and performance throughout the long days that we endure on the green. I look forward to showing firsthand the impact that Under Armour makes on the course with the release of the Drive Pro.” – Jordan Spieth
The Drive Pro Series can be found on UA.com and at golf retailers throughout the UK. The Drive Pro and Drive Pro SL retail for £150 GBP (EUR €170) and £130 GBP (EUR €150), respectively and carry a 1-year waterproof warranty.
The new TaylorMade Golf Team-Members. (Photo: TaylorMade)
TaylorMade Golf Company, an industry leader in product innovation and technology, announced today the signings of some of the youngest and hottest prospects on the Challenge Tour to play TaylorMade equipment from 2024. With an average age of 22 they join an already incredibly talented stable of athletes plying their trade on both the DP World Tour and Challenge Tour as part of Team TaylorMade.
Four new players for Team TaylorMade Golf in the 2024 season
Angel Ayora
Angel, who won the first stage of Qualifying School at Donnington Grove Golf Club at the end of September, 2023, joins Team TaylorMade after he secured his Challenge Tour card for 2024. At just 19-years-old from Spain, Angel played both the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open and ISPS Handa Australian Open at the beginning of the 2023/2024 DP World Tour season, making the cut on both occasions, finishing 33rd and tied-21st, respectively.
Angel Ayora sings with TaylorMade. (Photo: TaylorMade Golf)
Angel is one the quicker players so getting him dialled in was very important. Tour Representative Sam Day started with a heavier driver shaft which offered him more control with little to no trade-off in club speed. Because of the better strikes and more connected feel with the driver, he was able to gain ball speed and play something that is designed to be more stable. His miss is to the right, so going down in head loft and using the FCT sleeve to change loft and face angle helped fix this problem (9.0 head set two clicks higher playing at 10.5 – the more loft added to a driver will close the face angle and therefore less likely to miss right). During golf ball testing, the soon-to-be-released 2024 TP5x was testing 3mph quicker with the driver, and when it came to irons, Sam actually moved his iron lofts a full 1 degree weaker to help him get better spin rates and land angles into the greens. Angel constantly works with his coach to increase his peak height, and with the new ball and iron lofts he gained 20 feet with his longer irons helping that stopping distance coming into greens.
Former French Number One Amateur, Martin Couvra, joins Team TaylorMade after becoming only the seventh player in history to win on the Challenge Tour as an amateur. Following his victory at the Challenge de España in September, 2023, Martin made the decision to turn professional. Martin finished the 2023 season ranked 46th on the Road to Mallorca rankings, solidifying a full Challenge Tour card for 2024 for the 21-year-old.
Martin Couvra sings with TaylorMade. (Photo: TaylorMade Golf)
Martin likes to see a fade with the driver so he likes to see the ball starting left and falling to the right. Tour Representative Mark Thistleton worked with Martin a lot around face angle, and they found that the more Mark opened the face, the more fade Martin produced, reacting to what he saw at address. Couvra settled on a 10.5 head set a little lower playing at 10 degrees with a little open face angle that gives him the look of a fade club at address. Mark then worked on wedge options to better fill his distances after spotting that Martin previously carried a 52 & 58 degree Hi Toe wedge and left himself a 20-metre gap between PW & 52. Martin ended up in the new MG4 50 & 54 wedges to have his approach play dialled in ahead of the season. They both spent a lot of the session working with the new TP5 ball, which Martin loved right away. Martin is not one of the longer hitters out there and found speed especially in the top end of the bag with the new ball which he was sold on right away.
Two-time Walker Cup star and Wake Forest University graduate, Mark Power (23), has put his trust in TaylorMade equipment as he starts the next phase of his career. Prior to heading to the US College system in 2019, Mark was a three-time winner of the Irish Boys Order of Merit (2016, 2017,2018) and two-time winner of the Irish Open Boys Championship (2016, 2017). Mark graduated in 2023 before making his professional debut on the DP World Tour at the Horizon Irish Open last year, finishing tied-33rd. He also made the cut at the ISPS Handa Australian Open this season on the DP World Tour and will ply his main trade on the Challenge Tour this year.
Mark Power sings with TaylorMade. (Photo: TaylorMade Golf)
Mark likes to play with a draw, and with the new Qi10 LS driver he was able to match the correct amount of launch and spin to make his go-to shot a lot easier and perform better. His drop-off in spin with his previous gamer was penalising his miss shot and therefore performance off the tee. Again, during ball testing, Mark gained 2mph ball speed switching into the 2024 TP5x golf ball from the 2021 TP5, and this was a massive step forward for him. Tour Representative Sam Day looked at the wedge and putter performance with the new ball to make sure the feel and sound married up with performance, which it did. The soft feel and low spin numbers he gained at the top end of the bag made this a clear winner.
North Carolina State University scholar, Max Steinlechner (24), from Austria, completes the roster for 2024. Max, a former Austrian Number One Amateur, had a stellar amateur career before heading off to play for the Wolfpack. He won the Austrian International Amateur Championship as a 17-year-old with a score of 11-under par, and won the Austrian Boys Strokeplay Championship for three consecutive years between 2015-2017. Max played the majority of his golf on the Challenge Tour in 2023, where he will look to build on a strong foundation moving into 2024.
Max Steinlechner sings with TaylorMade. (Photo: TaylorMade Golf)
Max is very much a feel player and likes to focus on feel when testing clubs almost as much as performance. He does not change equipment easily or without validation, but he very quickly fell in love with the Qi10 driver. Tour Representative Mark Thistleton tested a couple of new shaft options, settling on the new Graphite Design VF in a 60 TX, tipped 1.25”, which is a little more than standard. Max has lots of speed and an extremely good ball striker, he offers precise feedback and any small changes Mark made to his equipment were seen instantly in the resulting ball flight. During pre-season was Max’s first testing session with a TaylorMade Golf Ball. This made up a huge part of the testing procedure, testing the range of TaylorMade golf balls, diligently looking at the numbers and giving his precise feedback on sound and feel. Mark and Max soon concluded that the soon-to-be-released 2024 TP5x ball was the perfect fit for his game. It controlled his spin in the long game and offered great feedback and feel through the rest of the bag.
“The golfing world all sees the success stories at the top with the likes of Rory, Tommy and Nelly when they win golf tournaments. But what they don’t see is how much work goes on behind the scenes in Team TaylorMade to find and develop the next generation of top class players. We believe this crop of talented young players from across Europe all have what it takes to compete and succeed on a world stage in the very near future. Each has their own successes as an amateur to be proud of, but more than that, we see a maturity and an attitude in these guys that stands them apart from their peers and because of this they are a great fit for the TaylorMade family. We are excited to continue this journey with them and look forward to seeing the individual success stories from each of them over the coming months and years.”
-Mark Thistleton, Tour Representative, TaylorMade Golf
