Equipment
The fairway finder
We're never short of competitive golf at this time of year.
Whether it's the summer knockouts, club matches or monthly medals, now is when we all want to be playing well. It's that momentum and unwavering confidence that golf can bring. Win one match or shoot a few under your handicap in a competition and it won't be long until your expectations on the course change.
Finding the fairway
Hitting a poor tee shot on the first can easily be blamed on feeling a little stiff. It's happened to all of us and - we hate to say it - it will happen again in the future too.
But when you're playing well and on the final stretch, it's important to keep going and finish the round with confidence.
Whether you're feeling the pressure in a tight match or have a good score going, having an option in your armoury that almost guarantees you'll find the fairway off the tee is a godsend.
How the pros play
Taking a club off the tee that you know you’ll be able to find the fairway with 9 out of 10 times is massive, and directly elevates your confidence as well as your scoring ability. Just ask the pros how important finding the fairway is.
Skilled players often choose to hit a cut shot off the tee, methodically striking the ball with a soft fade to gain more control over the ball at the expense of distance.
When striking a cut shot, Rickie Fowler explained to Golf Digest that he needs to be relaxed and mentally committed to the shot rather than trying to force the result.
A big thing is making sure you don't slice into it. Staying behind it is important, but continuing to release it. When I'm trying to hit a cut, I'm thinking cut, I'm not trying too hard to cut it.
Rickie Fowler | Golf Digest
Finding your fairway-finder
One of the most forgiving drivers money can buy, the ST Max from Mizuno is an excellent tool to help you find the fairway. This driver has a larger, wider clubhead, effortlessly giving you the mental notion that it’s easier to strike with. A large 54g backweight makes this club very resistant to twisting on impact with the ball for purer accuracy, and the quick switch hosel has 4 degrees of adjustability. An excellent club to help you strike the ball cleanly.
If you’re in the market for something with more workability, the ST-G 440 driver is very adjustable and will have you finding your ideal set-up in no time. The sole of the head features two weights that can be pushed to more extreme positions, from ultra-low, to low, and mid-low spin settings. The head itself is a more aerodynamic pear shape, making this driver ideal for players seeking greater workability.
The ST Max model also comes in a fairway wood variation that’s always an excellent choice to take off the tee if your biggest aim is to land the fairway. Wieldier than a driver, it’s definitely worth sacrificing a little distance for greater control when facing an uncertain tee shot.
If you’re thinking it’s time to add a new driver or fairway wood to your bag but you’re uncertain of which one would best suit you, we’re available in the pro shop to consult you.
