New Year, New Gear

Callaway Big Bertha

When it first debuted in 1991, Callaway’s oversized titanium Big Bertha driver revolutionized golf. Since then metalwoods have gotten larger and lighter. Although the company hasn’t released a Big Bertha since 2007, the mother of all metalwoods has emerged from hibernation for 2014 with a model that reflects the game’s latest trend, adjustability. Much like Mizuno’s MP-630 and TaylorMade’s SLDR drivers, the new Big Bertha boasts adjustable weighting via a sliding sole weight. Unlike those two offerings which were placed more in the centre of the sole, the (eight gram) Big Bertha weight slides in an arc along the club’s heel. This moves the centre of gravity farther back which makes it easier to launch your drives. Also available is the Big Bertha Alpha, which allows users the ability to change the CG vertically as well as horizontally. From HK$3,100 www.callawaygolf.com

Cleveland Smart Sole

Greenside shots can be some of the trickiest in the game. What often looks like a simple, short approach shot is made more complicated by a golfer’s inability to make solid contact. Cleveland Golf has addressed this issue with their latest offering, the Smart Sole. Available in two models (S and C), the Smart Sole wedge was constructed to eliminate excess digging in turf and sand for more solid contact. The more traditional looking (though still wide-soled) S version (pictured) promotes better launch from bunkers, while the C model, an old school-looking chipping wedge, was built for crisper greenside chips. Available in steel and graphite shafts. HKD$775-$925. www.clevelandgolf.com