Which golf brand would you NEVER use?

[@dgad7270]

Gentlemen, I find myself gobsmacked that neither of you offered up the perspective that meeting new people on the golf course is a perfectly natural thing to experience that provides a chance to step outside your comfort zone and have a conversation with a person who loves the very same game you do. I've had numerous pleasant days with playing with people who were perfect strangers at the onset of the round and ended up my dear old friends by the 18th. The world really needs more people sharing stories and struggles on the golf course - a place where we can set aside all the noise and celebrate moments of greatness and failure.

[@benbarratt570]

Or I just want to play golf without the stress of having to converse with someone I don’t know

[@williamroot2874]

Long story but...I have a friend that retired from the USAF and moved back to his home state of Maine. He was having a hell of a time finding a job after his first one didn't pan out. My family and I drove up from New Mexico to see him and his family. My one request was we play some golf while there. He calls and books a tee time for the 2 of us. As we are walking to the tee box the starter asks if it would be OK if another gentleman joined. We obliged. That gentleman is fairly high up in a multi billion dollar company. After some conversation my friend got his contact information. My friend has been working at that man's company for about 6 months now as a safety manager.

[@P.G.Wodelouse]

@@benbarratt570 go when it not busy or buy your own course then. the entitlement to think you own a course because you pay a nominal fee is beyond me.

[@benbarratt570]

@@P.G.Wodelouse I try to! Just looking forward to when restaurants start to do the same thing and seat couples that don’t know each other together because it’s more efficient for them to only have tables of 4.

[@discr1709]

I only want to play with my friends, brother or wife or by myself. Don’t enjoy getting paired up with strangers. Now, for some reason when I play disc golf my attitude is totally different. Have no idea why.

[@mikecowell8327]

My brand is Cobra. I’m a left handed player and some brands completely ignore us. Cobra was my first set of irons. I went and hit a bunch of irons but the cobras felt best to me. And then the big thing when I went to order clubs on line I was having issues getting what I wanted built in the left handed clubs. I called customer service and they took care of me, did made sure I got exactly what I wanted even though they weren’t necessarily offered on the website in Left handed. So that’s why I play Cobra because they took a personal interest in making sure someone who represents a very small part of the community was still taken care of. They could have just said “we don’t have that and lefty”. Cobra cared some brands don’t seem to.

[@Chris-lh6hw]

Love Cobra. Just bought a new set of Irons. It was between them and Taylor Made.

[@CanadianInScotland]

I went for the fitting, the pro gave me clubs where he had covered the brand. At the end Cobra was perfect and priced well. Gotta agree with you, being a righty, we have all brands begging for our money, but I play with 3 lefties and there really isn't much out there that isn't $$$$$. Most of the people I play with have now gone to cobra

[@CamMacMastermusic]

I couldn’t agree more. Cobra definitely looks out for us lefties the best.

[@Lancer-y5g]

Ping sets the standard. Still a family business

[@fatboyz10]

As a Lefty Cobra has more clubs available weather it be used or new. Also as some one new to golf the one Length has allowed me to pick up the game a bit quicker and be able to go out and play without ending up in the woods every other hole.

[@ashleyknightley6008]

My bag is currently filled with Wilson Clubs. The dynapower driver, woods and hybrids have certainly helped my game.

[@locobenno9435]

yep same here, Dynapower Driver/3W, driving iron, CB 4-PW, Staff Model wedges 50/54/58, Infinite Grant Park putter (only just switched to the mid-mallet after playing an 8802 for eons), love 'em all, the look and feel are outstanding ...switched from being a long time Titleist player and doubt I will ever go back

[@robertshields6214]

Wow

[@mattflickinger8151]

Did a fitting a few weeks ago. Guy handed me clubs and told me not to look at the brand. The Wilson irons and driver were winners, and i was shocked. Took them home, and feel great. I was switching from 20 YO Mizuno blades that i just couldn’t hit well enough playing like 5 times a year.

[@timboaf21]

@@mattflickinger8151 Same here. Felt the best and performed the most consistently for me.

[@paulbooij7594]

I love Wilson CBs.

[@StevelandCleamer]

Mizuno needs more love in this discussion, whether it’s irons, wedges, putters or even their new woods, which come in at a better price point than competitors. Their stuff looks awesome, plays awesome, and lasts a very long time. Really high quality stuff. I refuse to spend money with Taylormade. After having the stealth+ and stealth 2+ repeatedly break on me (and then sending me the wrong club heads for warranty), I can’t bring myself to support them when they clearly have such a quality control issue. Side note: I’ve been paired with some pretty cool randoms, but I’d much rather not play with random people. I’m a casual player who would much rather play with my friends

[@harryhall4690]

Agreed, Mizuno Irons are some of the cleanest, softest strikes I’ve played with.

[@fraserdavidson278]

Big Mizuno fan here…played my first set for 25yrs…when I blind tested a bunch of new irons I liked new Mizunos the best!

[@StevelandCleamer]

@@harryhall4690 their newest drivers are shockingly good too

[@TheDouglas217]

Mizuno irons are the best you can get and the wedges are underrated also.

[@SpaceBananas]

The whole time they were talking about it, Mizuno was the brand I was waiting for them to mention.

[@Rocket1971]

Rick is totally correct about the random pairings happening on golf courses in the USA versus other places. I travel to Florida every year in early spring with my golf buddy for a "guys golf trip" for 10 years now. Have had another two-some paired with us a few times and luckily only once have had to make up an excuse, a few holes in, to have them go ahead and just play, while we "lagged" behind. But, we have also had some great pairings with strangers that turned out great. In May of 2022, got paired with a father and son, on vacation from Ireland. Turns out the son had just competed in the 2021 Irish Mid-Amateur Open Championship in October of 2021. We had the best time, joking and laughing and telling stories, like we had all been playing together for years.

[@carlsoto1747]

I find the random pairings happens mostly on courses that have to close completely for winter. Here in Canada they pretty much have to pair people up so they can make sure they generate enough money in the summer to last until next season. Courses here have started installing sims in their clubhouses so they can still generate some money while the course is closed. I don't mind randoms, most of the time my golfing buddy and I get along quite well with them and we've only had issues with a couple of randoms over the years.

[@yoholmes273]

Aaaaaw no. You're two some was "forced" to play with other golfers. Poor baby 👶

[@scoo0oo402]

Golf differs so much from region to region. I'm in the states near DC. I go out as a single all the time, so I usually play with random people. I have 3 rules: Just be a normal person, try to help with ball spotting, and don't play music too loud. Met some interesting and hilarious characters that I wouldn't if I had never played with random people.

[@timboaf21]

Same here! Near DC always out as a single. In my 14 years in MD, I have yet to play with someone who I couldn't take. Been playing since I was a kid and in general find people to be great and at the worst into their own round which is totally fine. They paid money and took the time just like I did. Very easy to be nice and normal.

[@FormallyCrippled]

I'm a high mid handicapper and I love my Wilson Staff milled putter. It looks so sharp and it doesn't break the bank.

[@nickyc162]

I love listening to Guy. He is so smart the way he puts things across to the viewer. Rick and Guy are a great partnership on and off the golf course. More break 75’s with Guy would be great

[@tylerdracing]

As an American - I am shocked when someone ISNT added to my 2some on a public course. Even a Monday morning two days ago a friend and I got two singles added to us.

[@robertholloway6887]

What’s in my bag, Wilson Launchpad driver, Wilson Master blades 5-pw Wilson Master cb 4 iron,Ping 425 3 wood and 430 7 wood. Taylor made High toe wedges and Odyssey 7 DF putter.Had the blades about 6 months and I absolutely love them…..😊😊😊

[@davidfellows3940]

I'm on my 2nd set of Wilson Staff irons... best irons I've ever used. Long. Accurate. I'm not a great golfer and they are forgiving and just long. You can shape a shot. Prior to these sets I had Callaway and they weren't bad but I'm a Staff lifer now.

[@eoinm5758]

Was just about to write the same I use Taylor made woods and wedges and I use Wilson staff irons

[@CarstenBechmann]

I also use Wilson irons. They suit my game.

[@nathanwood7342]

Best irons I ever had was staff fluid feels. You had to be on your game but sooo rewarding.

[@jasonmillington4344]

I am now using Wilson irons and been a great choice. Went for what suited me rather than price

[@francissampson]

I think you go with what looks and feels good no matter what the price is .

[@ajbranson2]

The things that Taylormade, Titelist, Callaway, and Ping have in common is that they are golf companies. 100% of their time, focus, and attention is on golf... Wilson is a sports ball company. Not saying they are bad but public perception is that they are a cheaper brand because they sell starter sets at Wal-mart. At the end of the day people like to feel like, when they are playing golf it is something "fancy". Expensive things are better... clubs, balls, courses... its just the mentality that people have.

[@mattflickinger8151]

They are one of the oldest brands in clubs too, which is crazy. I agree, they got a bad name making affordable full sets for cheap stores. They are rebranding these days

[@zacharyradford5552]

That in reality says a lot about the golf community.

[@jpvincenti3571]

2nd set of Wilson's for me too. D7 forged and now the new 2024 CB irons. They're not the flashiest but I want substance over style.

[@harrste11]

I've been using the Wilson D9 irons for over a year now, and they've really elevated my golf game. While everyone at my local course seems to favor the P790, it's refreshing to stand out with something different in my bag that not only matches their performance but also comes at a more affordable price point.

[@ssc00p]

Forged I guess, not regular D9s?

[@nikmc7539]

Ping woods, Wilson Hybrid, Wilson Irons are buttery. 5-7i CB 8-PW in the new Staff Blades. These irons are sooooo consistent. They just hit the number! As a fitter also, the new DynaPower Forged have been a fantastic club for a wide range of players!! If you haven’t tried the Wilson’s you’re missing out!

[@ChrisHarszlak]

Rick I have always used Wilson from my Dad passed me down his Sam Snead irons. Went to W/S tour blades in the eighties as everyone was shifting to Ping. The traded those up to Di7, now have the launch. Everyone of my friends that have borrowed a club or tested have love the feel, I will always buy Wilson irons just me but they feel right and I love your reviews of them. Now I am still waiting on a review of OnCore golf balls, always used Titliest nxt and avx went to OnCore after finding one last year on the course and played well

[@HorusE]

Been using the Staff CBs and a 60 Wilson Hi Toe Wedge for the past 2 or so years, and just got fitted to the new Blade/CB combo with the ZM wedges. They feel amazing and I have 0 buyers remorse using Wilson so far! The blades are ridiculously forgiving (for blades) and the new forged ZM wedges feel like butter compare to other wedges I've tried (and I've tried almost all the mainstream brands for wedges). Even bought an old 8882 putter that I'm currently gaming, and even consider switching to the Dynapower Carbon after trying it in a fitting!

[@JRBinder]

After a lot of research, I decided to add a 7-wood to my bag to replace my 4-iron. My bag was Cleveland (wedges), Taylormade (irons), and Ping (driver, 3 wood). I chose a Wilson Launchpad 2 7-wood and it has very quickly become a weapon for me, allowing me to hit shots that I could never pull off before. It is forgiving, has a great ball flight, sound, and feel. I feel that there are some brands making very high quality equipment that just don't get the marketing/brand awareness. This Wilson 7-wood cost me $80 on Amazon.

[@RoyBales]

Love the Wilson brand. Currently use their balls, irons, and hybrids/driver. A mix of D9 and launchpad. Their wedges and putters seem a bit pricey so went with Cleveland. Hard to beat the affordability and quality of a Wilson iron set, esp their forgiving style of irons.

[@yoholmes273]

It seems everyone I know have owned a set of Wilson's at one point or another.

[@chrismullan2125]

As an Irishman I have always loved Wilson as a brand. I am the ultimate casual golfer who really only plays par 3 courses or head to the range for a bit of fun but have always followed golf as a sport I enjoy to watch. I think my fondness of Wilson is very much linked to the fact it's synonymus with Padraig and that's one of the reasons I am a Wilson fan, that and I genuinely just like the look of the brand. People should just use what they enjoy and like rather than having to have the 'best' or most expensive gear.

[@tp0376]

Would have never played Nike, but will play Cleveland and Wilson. Because they were 2 of the best long before some of the current big names. It’s the same reasons we buy any product.

[@jackramsden9346]

Moaning about the casual Easter egg fans cracked me up…

[@peterlightowler3807]

That's a terrible yolk...

[@nathanbaldwinUK]

Don’t egg him on

[@jackramsden9346]

@@nathanbaldwinUK that’s what it boils down too..

[@bobbyDD]

im in my mid 20’s now. all my buddies have atleast one wilson club in the bag. my one buddy has a full wilson set. i have the old fg tour pmp raw wedges. amazing price and they always perform just as good as the rest. when my ben hogan icon blades are at the end of their life, the wilson staff blades are going in the bag. most beautiful clubs on the market imo

[@piklezy6818]

Hi Lads I am a returning golfer and bought a cheap set of Wilson’s to start off again and this year wanted to step up wanted Taylormade as that’s the brand I always associated with better golf. In the end being ex RAF I have moved to PXG good discount and a little out of the ordinary 👍⛳️

[@albonthegoat]

I use Wilson because I have always been the type to want something different that was still as good as what everyone else is using in every sport I've played. I love the tradition. The D9s are gorgeous in my opinion. I think the problem comes when a decision maker in the company decides to dilute the name by making store brand sets for extra sales. It ALWAYS bites them in the end, but shareholders are only there to make money now and there's no care for the future.

[@ek9589]

Which is a shame because my starter set by Wilson were still really solid clubs the irons went a mile

[@jeffcarr9389]

I'm currently playing Tour Edge irons and woods. I got them for the lower price point and the lifetime warranty and I truly enjoy them. I would love to see Rick do a review of their clubs to get his opinion on them.

[@yoholmes273]

Lifetime warranty? Yes, please

[@ronswinford4952]

Cypress Point is the most incredible views I have ever seen on a golf course, but nothing compares to Augusta National. Everything there is perfect. There are no real views, other than the flowers and trees, but the condition is unreal, the facilities are incredible and like Rick said you know the course so well from TV. Once you get to play the course, you learn it so much better because the hills and the greens are so unique in the game. I have been lucky to play some great courses, Cypress Point, Pebble Beach, Shinnicock, Pinehurst No. 2, TPC at Sawgrass many times and Riviera, plus many more, but while they are all incredible in their own ways, none of them really compare.

[@jaybyrne4562]

I think the reason people don't try or buy Wilson irons is because not enough fitters stock them for testing. I really fancied trying them this year but nowhere near me stocks them. So unless I travel to try them, I have no access to them.

[@wkndwarrior4733]

The new Wilson irons and wedges look so good. I am currently playing Tour Edge Exotics c721 iron’s and hybrid. The hybrid is a staple but I will be honest I have the itch to “upgrade” from the tour edge name. But I will make sure the new irons perform better before purchasing. The tour edge irons are a steal when they go on sale. I got mine under $500 new. I felt like the price was too low to pass up so gave them a shot and would recommend them. Really impressed with how they have held up. Rest of my bag is Callaway

[@kentsawatzky4252]

I'm a 13 handicap roughly. I've used the last 3/4 years I built a Callaway set from driver down to pitching wedges. All used by the way. But I use Wilson wedges 60,56,52. And I've always used Wilson golf balls. Smartcore or Wilson staff. Generally cuz they're nice golf balls and they're relatively inexpensive. Smart cars I can get 24 balls for like 30 bucks. And it is actually a nice ball for someone of My level to hit.

[@dpezza5]

I've recently given Wilson a go, can't afford the newest but through the second hand market have a c300 driver and 3 wood, and a set of di7 irons. Really like them and they've helped my game improve. No brand snobbery from me 😅

[@hmu05366]

In golf it’s usually reverse snobbery that’s the problem. As if it’s uncool to have nice things lol

[@jamiesloan7259]

I’ve been playing the Wilson Staff Model ball, for the last few months. It’s longer than the ProV, and also has more green side spin.

[@LGSImmortal]

Wait. It’s not the norm to be paired with another group? My buddy and I play with another random pair almost every time we golf. Doesn’t matter which course we play. OH, USA here.

[@TheSeanjohn0226]

Big wilson guy here, using driver, woods, and wedges right now. Wilson is 100% back and really should get a better look from people.

[@rpf691]

Having golfed for over 70 yrs I"ve had all mannner of golf club makes. My first set of Wilsons' were 1200LT early 70's, in the 80's Wison Staff goosenecks, in the 50's most popular makes were Wilson , Macgregor, Spalding (Topflites) Slazenger, H&B (powerbilt)Titleist were noted for putters (Bullseye) and balls, I still have a John Letters putter from early 60's.

[@parkerisonfire1368]

I’m only 32 and I still play with h&b irons from ‘73 (they were clones of the titleist irons then) they are the HF series (high flight). The heads are heavy which I love for my power in my swing, I usually use a set of maverick muscle backs but i find myself always putting those dinosaurs back in my bag. I love heavy irons I was thinking of getting a set of pxgs for the extra weight but I think I just need to invest in led tape

[@rpf691]

@@parkerisonfire1368 I still have a couple of H&B Citation persimmon 1&3 woods.

[@parkerisonfire1368]

@@rpf691 I think there should be a vintage tournament where players play clubs from different decades to see how well they can strike. I miss watching tiger drive with a steel shaft.

[@sambean8133]

Been playing Wilson D9s for nearly a year now and love them. Got a fitting and expected to leave with the T200 but they just weren’t for me. Looking forward to seeing Rick with the Wilson’s

[@jinx20001]

ive been having a blast with my wilson dynapower, wilson have made some solid strides and still undercut those arguably bigger brands... we seem to have hit a point now where the big brands are basically taking the piss lets be honest, i still use taylormade irons and they are great but for sure you could play just as well and have just as nice a set for half the price. i personally think brands like wilson and mizuno etc dip their toes in too many products to be honest, for example most people would never choose to wear mizuno trainers over bigger brands and that effects the whole stack of products and where they are seen as offering budget options so the brand is generally budget. The fact titleist do not make trainers helps them massively because they come across as a focused brand who specialize in what they do. Its like saying would you swap your ping driver for one made by adidas... most people its a no, but you will take some adidas trainers over some made by ping if they made them... there is the perception that if a brand makes too many things and a lot of those things are actually really cheap, people feel like that cheapness works all the way up the stack even if they offer expensive gear. Ping offer a selection of footwear, who's buying them over other brands such as adidas? nobody right because we dont want shoes made by a company that specializes in something entirely different, in this situation even if adidas offer budget shoes they are still seen as the brand that specializes in that product and ping just dont... we dont want a tesla microwave, i just want their cars. So yeh, wilson, mizuno etc they really would need to move away from offering ''cheaper'' options as crazy as that sounds if they want to be seen as a premium brand... i mean, we need brands that offer competing prices to those big brands but while they do they will always be seen as the guys that offer bottom of the barrel shoes nobody wants or bags/rucksacks, clothing... whatever, while they offer super cheap stuff it lingers on the brand.

[@adamjacobson3698]

Lots to unpack here… I have the previous Wilson staff forged CB, got them to have a CB alternative to my hogan icon blades. To me, at a certain level it comes down to looks then feel only… for one piece, non-hollow forged irons, it’s either blades or CB - I went Wilson cuz they didn’t have much visual offset and kind of look like oversized blades. If there was such a thing as a slightly oversized 0 offset blade that would be my first choice regardless of brand… like a 0 offset mizuno mp 62. For whatever reason that doesn’t exist. Also, the maxfli ball is the best budget tour ball in my opinion, that or the snell. Not quite on the level of the big brands, but much superior to a Kirkland and a great value particularly in bulk.

[@omagnon]

My oldest(9) had all of a sudden just got mad in to going to the driving range. Only been trying to convince him for 4 years. Very happy moment

[@davedsandefur8175]

I have always used Wilson clubs and so glad to see them really coming back to the forefront!

[@brannenlive]

I’m still using Nike irons I’ve had for years. I don’t think I care too much what brand I’d potentially use next. I think I’d just go with what felt the best

[@TitleWaive1]

Was just on spring break vacation (in U.S.) and played golf twice. I was paired up with 2 other guys each time. The first 2 were friends and members of the course I played. The other two were co-workers on business trip. They couldn't have been nicer and included me in the golf round. No snobby attitude or making me feel like a 3rd wheel. I think as golfers we should be welcoming to others and help them feel comfortable playing. They've paid to play just like you and should get to enjoy their round.

[@ahastar1141]

Exactly, I find it really surprising how many people are very opposed to playing with strangers if they don't book a full 4 some. If it only took 2 people to book up an entire 4 person time slot, it would be extremely difficult to book a tee time even harder than it currently is for many

[@malgeo318]

that's true. but, i am a solo golfer where i am (none of my friends live close enough) so when i go out in the summer im almost always paired up with a random 2-3 people. I dont mind it (though i really hate sharing a cart, if im a solo i want my own cart) and the people are usually pleasant. But, the best day ever was when i booked my teetime solo and the starter let me go out solo, was my absolutely favorite round of golf of all time, the quiet tree rustling, not having to have idol chats between shots. finding my ball and hitting it without waiting, and taking my time on the greens. Im just saying there is a place for both experiences. sometimes i dont mind being paired but playing by yourself or just with your friend is also an amazing time.

[@benRivOz]

as a golfer who has gone back to playing only 2 years ago (at 54 age), its hard to try to fit in with young, senior people. I don't know the buzz words, nor the new things in golf. But i do want to play. How does one communicate and be honest that , with a handicap of 36, i'm re-learning how to get better. Yes, you all have a good golf routine, gear, latest balls, clubs, technique -- good on you. We are just trying. So if you think its not in your golf's best interest to have someone line me to be on the same flight, more than happy to wait for the next or the next to play myn best next golf i can.

[@fishnaldo]

I'm currently playing Cobra woods and hybrids, Wilson putter, Callaway wedges and Inesis (Decathlon) irons. I don't think the prices of some brands is justifiable. Maybe if I find a club that I feel can do a job for a number of years, then I'll splash out. At the moment I'm getting my handicap diwn with game improvement clubs so might be open to buying something for the long term in the next year or so. Casual easter egg chats and football need to stay in. It's a podcast so it's nice to hear about other parts of your lives.

[@dementedstreettriple9770]

Currently have a Wilson Deep Red 2 5w. Wilson D9 4i, Wilson V6 tour 5-pw oron and wilson staff forged wedges. Callaway driver, cobra 3w and a odyssey putter.

[@JT-xs4br]

The cb’s are great! I love mine! Surprisingly forgiving and great feel and distance for traditional lofts.

[@vgad1492]

Have Wilson Staff from 20+ years ago. LH demo set from a country club that were never used. Fantastic set of clubs!!

[@MrFredB]

Just bought a new set of Wilson Staff CB irons. I went into the shop with an open mind. The Wilson’s felt and looked the best. That’s the main reason I purchased them. Although, there is an appeal that they are “different”

[@mikebartholomew3883]

I play Wilson Irons for the Traditional look. Yes, the other manufacturers make a traditional looking iron, but the look of the Wilson just fit my eye. I have played Wilson most of my life.

[@andyprice3642]

Our club always need the money and it keeps my membership fees at a reasonable level so I’m happy for people to join our flight. I’m not expecting to make a lifelong friend every time it happens but it’s how I have met many great people

[@peterbate1842]

My club has this policy of adding players to bookings, it works really well, bookings can be made in the pro shop or online, if you add imaginary guests to block out spare places they are removed if no names are added. It works really well especially at busy times at the weekend, if all the tee times were filled with 2 balls on a Saturday morning half of us would not be able to play. If you are really picking and unsociable and only want to play with your mate then you should play at quieter times when there are plenty of spaces, if you need to play at peak times then you need to expect to play with other members. It also helps new members meet other people

[@tannerhudgens4282]

Absolutely love Wilson and their iron design. It’s possible that Wilson has this “old school” feel when you hear about them. Almost as if they are outdated. Or that they are just a “Walmart” brand. Will be curious to see their trajectory now with this new generation of clubs they are making.

[@kieranhight9453]

Have been a full bag Wilson player excluding Putter and Wedges my entire life. Looking forward to trying the new wedges about to drop, hoping for improvments in spin to go with the improved looks. Love Wilson, Love Padraig, lifetime fan

[@blakebarone1809]

I love Wilson product. But I’ve had the worst customer service interactions with them for both golf and tennis equipment. It’s mind boggling how disorganized that company is.

[@Averyravynwood]

My entire bag is Ping, including the bag. Most of the clubs I picked up on recommendation of Rick’s original channel, G400 irons, G410 driver/3w/3h, G425 4h, Glide 3 wedges, Kushin 4 putter, DLX bag.

[@THFRSTYFLS]

I believe Titleist had a huge sponsor in tv shows like Seinfeld, making them pretty much timeless. TV and Movies play huge roles in even knowing a brands name.

[@R0ckLee52]

I live in Canada here where Our golf club does the same thing. If me and my friend book a tee time together the course is allowed/other people are able to book on us. Honestly we find it alright. Were newer members to the course (this will now be our 2nd year) and we just think of it as we get to meet new people/other members. Most people that book with us are good people. We've had a few that are not fun to play with but the good outweigh the bad.

[@coobay4786]

I've been playing for 40 years and have played about everything. Back in 2016 I bought a set of Ping G Max irons and without a doubt they are the best irons I've ever played. It doesn't matter where you hit them on face it feels like you hit the sweet spot. And whether you hit the sweet spot or the toe or the heal there isn't 2 yards difference. I can say I will never change irons again. My 2 cents.

[@goodsoup6085]

I not arsed about brand, I got the last set of Wilson cbs and they are class.... got taylormade woods driver but I also bought a wilson putter second hand for £50, it never going to be the best putter but for 50 its got a milled faces and feels great especially for the price XD

[@stuartbarker5125]

When I started playing my second set of irons were Wilson and I have not changed brands since I have even started to collect Wilson clubs

[@waynejones3844]

Cobra driver, Callaway hybrid , TaylorMade 3W,Srixon Irons, ping putter, Cleveland 49 degree, Callaway 52, ping 56, Callaway 60. I don't pick a brand. I test clubs and base on what's most affordable and what I hit best!

[@matthewrecenello1676]

I really enjoyed the brand discussion that you had. As Rick mentioned I do believe there is a flow that happens with brands and what people are pulled towards. I am happy to say that my bag is a mix of clubs. My putter and irons are Callaway, Driver is a Ping and 3 Wood is a Wilson. Each on of these before buying I was able to test and get a feel for each of them if I liked how they feel. I went with Ping on the driver for the forgiveness and the fact that I am not a player that is going to smash a pall crazy distance. Same with the 3 wood it felt great and I can hit it well. That right there is the big thing the consistency of hitting the ball well should be the biggest disciding factor for anyone purchasing a club not the flashy new brand.

[@johniacono3317]

In 2017 on a family vacation to ireland played old head with my son and father. The course was incredible the view were breath taking. I would pick old head everytime. Augusta would be fun, but im not interested in courses that wont let me play

[@brb5506]

I have no mates to play with, so I play alone or with strangers. I'm usually a better golfer than those I play with, but I play from whatever tees they are comfortable playing from. I enjoy getting to know everyone I play with.

[@fredlarke3806]

I play as a single a lot, and rather enjoy being placed with other people; new people to meet. However, as a senior who likes to walk and hit from the white tees, it can be difficult if paired with two young guys in a cart hitting from the tips!

[@TheOakleyGuy15]

I was in the market for a new set of irons. Picked up the Wilson D9 forged 5-GW for $550 brand new. Playing the best golf of my career and couldn’t be happier with the product. Deal is still out there on Amazon, and truly cannot be beat. Seems that Wilson has decided to stop making $200 starter sets and come back to serious golf. I think it’ll have a huge impact on them going forward.

[@KazingaD]

i play with random ppl somewhat regularly. i've met some people that i've gone on to play more golf with, and also made some connections for simple things like a good electrician or a guy who does roof repair

[@johntumino6603]

Wilson Staff are the most underrated irons in golf. There staff model putters are top notch too.

[@michaelpoenar]

There is one big reason people dont go after brands like Wilson, Cleveland, Tour Edge, etc. It's marketing spend... it's all awareness and what you find in stores at the upfront or highly available and in your face. It's not just about what pros or influencers use, but it's often you see it and pick it up and feel it and actually use it.The social media ads you get, emails received, and the like. Put Wilson next to the other names at your local store next to the range and place more ads, see how much more often those clubs may be purchased

[@GeneralDisgust]

I play Wilson irons. I’m a working man and they are affordable and feel phenomenal. Tried their drivers and wasn’t in love. Put a sim 2 max in and immediately fell in love. Wedges are another area where I tried Wilson’s wedges and they just didn’t feel or perform like my Cleveland’s. Love my Wilson staff putter though.

[@3nCounting]

I work at a proshop at a golf course (in the US) and last season, we had one request for Bridgestone Tour BX series golf balls and 3 requests for the Srixon Z-Star XV's (even though we had the previous season's Z-Star X's leftover)... the rest of the requests were for Titleist ProV1's (when we sold out) and we STILL couldn't sell the Srixon's at half-price!! People bought the TaylorMade TP5's (and TP5X's) or Callaway Chrome Soft's if they couldn't buy a box of ProV1's... crazy. Titleist lost Nelly Korda to TaylorMade last year and Gary Woodland left Wilson for Cobra... to add to my long comment, I always wanted to play Wilson irons and Titlest woods but couldn't afford them... I now am curious about Takomo irons but since our proshop is sponsored by Callaway... I play Callaway clubs since I get them "disounted" (free). I would never use or play PXG willingly. I just don't like Bob Parson's (the owner) like I don't like Donald Trump...

[@AllMyHobbies]

I’m shocked in Canada I often get paired with strangers it’s common practice. and 90% of the time I really enjoy it but i don’t find it stress full to talk to strangers.

[@alexanderdouchet1240]

Same here in Germany - quite common

[@BC-qb1om]

I’ve had my Wilson set from 2008ish my whole life. It was a full set, a budget set sold at Sports Authority lol. They’re great, I used to hate them but honestly they’ve held up perfect, and once I’ve learned to kinda properly hit, they feel wonderful, although I literally have never tried another club due to being a lefty. I only play the irons now but every time I think about replacing them I get a little sad. I’m also in Chicagoland so Wilson is local, gotta support them.

[@QuintupleA]

As someone from Sweden, I didn't realise this is how booking worked in other countries. Here you can never book a time by yourself/with friends, you only book spots at that time. If I play with just one other friend, we almost always get joined by a random person. If we play as 3 it happens less, but still occurs.

[@MiTrenZ]

Same here in The Netherlands, never knew it wasn’t common practice.

[@imapotato572]

Same here in the U.S.A. golf courses are usually too busy to just let a single or double go out alone, it's almost always a three or foursome

[@martinstrand4554]

Exactly. Very surprised to hear how things seem to work in the UK. Also from Sweden.

[@majen66]

Srixon is sponsoring my local course and the next one over in the closest town. I think they are starting at a grass roots level and working up from there. I grew up in the 80's and Ping was a luxury brand to own. My grandpa had a set of Ping Eye 2's and i was captivated. I had PowerBuilt Citations and loved them.. but when i finally could afford it i went with Ping. Taylormade and Tieltlist really don't have that appeal to me so I'd say my upbringing was a big factor.

[@aidangriffiths5075]

The new wilson blades and CB irons are absolutely fantastic and gorgeous...... but Ping brought out the blueprint t blades, titleist have the t100 dominating, srixon have the ZX7 irons and callaway brought out the amazing apex cb irons. I think the problem for lesser brands trying to improve in the market now is that the larger companies bring out exceptional products and that's just difficult to compete with unless you undercut them

[@soxnpats4lyfe]

I have just ended up loving Callaway stuff. Easiest to find a XXL glove, I love the supersoft balls, I bought a used Hawx driver to try a 9.5 stiff flex and love that driver now. Callaway sold me with out attempting to sell me.

[@charlieg9559]

Not a golf story, but my dad drove a taxi for many years when I was young, and a friend of his had a fare ask him for a place to stay, who wound up being an old rich guy who left everything he had to this cabbie that took him in. This truly did happen. I remember having lunch with him and my dad as a kid and just being blown away.

[@Itsmax717]

For me when I think of Wilson, I think of a tennis brand. Grew up playing tennis competitively and that’s all I remember about the brand. They have stayed strong in the golf sport though.

[@dargbarnett]

I can relate to the equipment debate. I was fitted last year and said to the fitter I didn't want to know the brand and go with club that was best for me/felt best. That turned out to be Cobra, which I was surprised about but they are excellent.

[@shannonparkertube]

Kevin Streelman, Kevin Kisner, and Brendan Steele use (or did use) Wilson irons

[@NewYearNewStart2012]

As a junior I played at a club where you'd get paired up to make a fourball and I used to hate it as I'd always receive "unwanted" advice... I call it unwanted as I could score a birdie or chip in from 150+ yards and would still be told how I needed to change my swing

[@marcthomas2333]

My clubs are from Wishon Golf (forged for the irons), a brand that not many people have ever heard of. Although the man behind the brand, Tom Wishon, is the person with the most patents and innovations in the entire golf industry and has worked for a lot of „big“ brands as well as top tour players. And I only have them for one reason: they are just super good. Their combination of feel, length, forgiveness and workability is second to none. There are no photos on a scorecard, as they say. And there are no brands on it either. So the only thing that really counts (or should count) is how well you can play with your clubs. Oh yes, I also have a set of Honma clubs (blades) that I haven't played for years because they can't keep up with the Wishons. If you need a brand (for Golf in particular and life in general), ask yourself why you need it: because the clubs are excellent for you or because they help polish up your little personality and low self-esteem.

[@johnbroome323]

I've been lucky enough to play Cypress Point and Pine Valley (used to caddie there). Ranking Cypress Point over Pine Valley is asinine.

[@morkusmorkus6040]

Currently rolling a Wilson M3 putter. Its decent.

[@InterstellarMedium]

Great discussion about the golf equipment brands. It would be interesting to see what equipment independent/non-sponsored tour players and pros use (or used before signing up to a marketing sponsorship). I believe some brands stand out with independents, like Mizuno and Srixon. With regards to Wilson, I definitely believe that the senior management trashed their legendary golf brand when they decided to go for low cost, high volume golf sets through general retailers like Walmart.

[@zimbobway3137]

Learning that being paired with a random is not really a thing outside of the US is blowing my mind. I live in Northern VA and if you play a round anytime between spring and fall you will absolutely be paired with randoms every single time unless you've got a full group...

[@matthewpiekny2742]

In regards to the big 3, it comes down to size of brand and consistency over the past 10 or so years making very good products where as a cobra may only have 50% of their products be at the top end so even the good ones people would be weary to try

[@12mmratchet84]

i think the problem with brands like Wilson is, it isnt a golf brand. they make a general variety of sports equipment so i think it gives a brand recognition of generality. it doesnt pop in your head as "high end" like i picked up an old 90s Spalding driver from a yard sale for 3 bucks. i know Spalding from making basket balls and didnt know how it would do. i hit it farther and straighter than my Callaway strata driver and have kept it in the bag since. upgrading all my clubs now lol

[@airborne897]

I use Taylormade Sim 2 Max driver,M6 woods and hybrid,M6 irons, wedges and Odyssey putter. Fairly Low cost and pretty forgiving without breaking the bank to enjoy my golf.

[@GaryMelanson-z2p]

I've played golf for 57 years and played a broad range of brand golf clubs, built and repaired clubs and informally studied club design. I have played under a 5 handicap for the past 50 years so I know what feels right and perform and I've witnessed a lot of changes in the industry and played with ever ability of golfers. My opinion is that the vast majority of golfers are not educated in what they should look for in equipment for their games, but are greatly influenced by advertising, pros endorsements and low handicap friends. There seems to be a level of expectation that they play the current top brands in order to be "respected". There is a lot of great performing equipment available today from a range of suppliers, from Brand Names to Direct to Consumer companies. But you need to get the right equipment for your game and then prove it with your play. I also feel that us Senior golfers are less influenced by the hype and probably more budget conscious so we buy and play equipment that we can afford and that lasts longer. Sorry for the long message. Cheers from Canada

[@GrantMckenna-q9u]

Taylormade driver, Callaway 5 wood, Ping irons, Cleveland wedges, Odyssey two ball putter. A bit of a mix but probably because I have never been fitted; going to change that soon. Whenever I hire clubs on holiday they always seem to be Wilson clubs

[@hyasmo9228]

I love my cobra woods hybirds and putter. My ping irons are top notch. Rtx wedges are awesome. Vokey is only thing left since my high school days

[@kevinodonnell6172]

The Dear Rick topic about filling up the four ball is something my regular playing group discuss. At our club, your time is your time, 1,2,3 or 4 ball. With limited space, new members looking to integrate and golf club being traditionally “clicky” we’ve though it would be good to have option to open the spots up to “randoms” if you want, rather than it being “forced”.

[@filfalcongolf]

Most advancements are from golf ball technology last few decades.... This explains why Jaeger recently won with 11 year old irons.... Finding the correct swing and shaft weight for your personal swing makes the biggest difference in my opinion. If you can't afford to splurge on name brand you can always by older used models and tinker with the weights yourself until you find your sweet spot.

[@Swattintanks]

Wilson also rarely does a fitting and testing day with the public. I can’t remember the last time going to a store or event where they are actively out testing and showing new technology or clubs. While I can’t argue I enjoyed testing them out but that was a general fitting where I chose the club to test, so I think if they actively pursued and solicited they’d be more of a name out there in golf

[@sevesellors2831]

Prices are getting crazy but the big four Taylormade, Titleist, Callaway, Ping , are very accessible for fitting and choice of shafts. Other brands have limited shafts and some brands are difficult to find, get a fitting like Wilson, Cobra, Srixon, Cleveland, they need to get a higher profile because their products are very good. Mizuno make great clubs and offer a great fitting and a big choice of shafts. They also have no upcharge for graphite shafts and offer top quality for reasonable prices. I heard that if the pros were free agents then they would play Mizuno. Wilson need to improve their website get more stockists and demo days then sales would improve.

[@dillonrostorfer202]

Bridgestone is popular in the States I use the RXS myself best ball for my game more spin easier to compress and the reactiv urethane is the best cover material out there IMO

[@irhamnurprasetyowibowo9809]

I use a full set of Srixon/Cleveland, feels like they have the best price to performance as a set to begin my golf journey with

[@robmurray6676]

With regards to playing with ‘strangers’, I am a club member and cannot play midweek due to work, so weekend golf is when I play and plenty of other members are the same. It is therefore accepted that if we book a casual round tee time for a 2 ball we may be joined by other members. I would however not be happy if I was joined by a non member!