A message from the editor, Neil Tappin:
The last time I went for an iron fitting was back in 2018. Despite my ball-striking usually being a strength, I remember struggling at the time and the set I opted for was the Mizuno JPX 919 Forged. Over the last couple of years, I’ve seen a significant improvement in my approach play and yet, as much as I love my Mizunos, I began to think a change was due for the 2024 season.
This was largely driven by the announcement of an update to Ping’s Blueprint offering. In particular, the brand introduced a new Blueprint S model that is a modern-day take on the popular S55 that dates back to 2013. That S55 model was the first time I’d ever played Ping irons and I loved them. And so, in December, I went to Thonock Park GC and met up with expert fitter Billy Rymer for my first iron fitting in five years.
The appeal of new golf equipment draws us all in from time-to-time and that’s why this issue of the magazine is always so highly anticipated. Each year, the major manufacturers reveal their line-ups in time for the start of the season and the Golf Monthly gear team have been busy testing everything from drivers to shoes. Of course, you can read their verdicts through the year but in this issue, we’ve put together a snapshot view of the most exciting equipment launches we’ve seen so far.
See below for some of the other highlights this issue has to offer...
Find The Perfect Ball Position With Every Club
The position of the ball in your stance is often seen as the simplest part of the set-up in golf, yet it is the most overlooked. Ball position is critical to making the correct contact and it needs to vary according to the club you’re using and the scenario you face. Here, we explain the common mistakes golfers make and the simple corrections needed to successfully execute the various shots you’ll play.
Lexi Thompson Exclusive
Lexi Thompson reflects on growing up on a golf course, turning pro young, playing with the men and just how much the Solheim Cup and Olympics mean to her.
20 Ways To Stamp Out Slow Play
The Rules may say that a round of golf is meant to be played at a prompt pace but all too often it isn’t. We highlight some of the main reasons for this, whether down to golfers, course set-up or even the layout’s design.
New Gear Special 2024
With so much new equipment being launched at the start of every calendar year, it can be hard to keep track of everything that is new to the game. Luckily for you, we’ve collated this handy guide to the key new releases so far this year. From this rundown, we hope you’ll be able to create a shortlist that suits your eye and your budget. You’ll be one step ahead when these products hit the shelves across the next month.
Playing The Old Course
Three of the Golf Monthly team recently played the iconic Old Course at St Andrews for the very first time. Here’s why it was such a memorable experience for them and why it should be on your bucket list too.
Alex Fitzpatrick Exclusive
In 2023, Alex Fitzpatrick announced himself on the world stage. Here, he reflects on his breakthrough season and shares his ambitions for this year.
Tommy Fleetwood's Signature Shot
Top 50 Coach John Howells analyses Tommy Fleetwood's famous held-off follow-through to see what you could learn.
The Best Courses You Can Play
This month Rob Smith looks at some less well-known courses that have impressed, delighted and inspired him over the years. We also take a trip to the Algarve, tour North Yorkshire and much more.
