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The Mustard Golf app analyzes your swing and creates personalized lesson plans from a library of drills and videos.  A solid way for golfers to focus their practice.  Not a perfect substitute for a real coach.

Introduction

AI is everywhere, from smarter search engines to ChatGPT.  We’ve already seen AI in golf club design, and Mustard Golf is bringing it to golf instruction.  This app has “trained using tens of thousands of 3D motion analyses” so it can watch a video of your swing and deliver a customized lesson plan.  I tested it to see if it can compete with an in-person lesson.

Set Up & Ease of Use

Using the Mustard Golf app is as easy as filming your swing.  You can record your swing directly in the app, or you can film your swing with your phone’s camera and import it.

Once your swing video is in the app, the AI spends a few minutes analyzing it.  As you can see above, the app puts virtual markers on your body to get a clearer idea of how you’re moving.

After the AI has done its magic, you get a report with several scores.  The app gives you an Overall Score, a Swing Path Score, and rates your body and hands in the backswing and downswing.  It also lays our priorities for improvement, tells you what you do well, and then recommends an improvement plan.

Effectiveness

In the Mustard Golf app, your improvement plan starts with a video defining the issue.  This is a really good first step because it eliminates a lot of the jargon and misconceptions.  The instruction comes from Mark Blackburn, a top-rated instructor who is pretty good on camera.

The next step is identifying potential causes of your issue.  This is a nice piece for those that want to understand the swing better.  Also, all the videos are short and to the point – 90 seconds or less.

Finally, you get to the meat of the plan: the drills.  These drills are explained in short videos and written descriptions.  I found the drills to be solid and well-aligned with the problems.  After spending some time with the drills – days or weeks – you upload a new swing to check your progress.

In my testing, Mustard Golf helped to uncover an issue in my swing that I had not been thinking about.  Working on the drills helped me to address it, and I saw really nice results in a short time.  To be fair, the issue and fix are things I’ve worked on in the past, so my results came more quickly than average.

While I think that the Mustard Golf app is a good way to focus your practice and build a swing that is closer toward the neutral, Platonic ideal, it is not a complete substitute for in person instruction.  Nowhere in the app are you able to input your major issue – hitting it fat, slicing, etc.  If you have one troublesome club, there’s not an obvious way to address it.  There’s nothing here for the short game.  The Mustard Golf app is good at what it does, but it has its limitations.

Need help finding a real coach?  Read THIS

Value

The Mustard Golf app is a subscription service that costs $25 per month or $150 per year (50% off).  In person lessons vary wildly in cost, but you’re likely to spend at least $100/hour in my area.  While Mustard is not going to give you the personal interaction and “customization” of face-to-face instruction, it is much more affordable and accessible to every golfer with a smart phone.

Longevity

As I often say about training aids, the longevity of this app is going to depend on the type of golfer you are.  Theoretically, Mustard has an unlimited shelf life (pun intended).  You can upload a new swing every day or every week and keep refining your mechanics.  If you are on a lifelong quest for the perfect swing, sign up for the full year and get to work.  For most golfers, I’d take it month by month, at least to start, to see how you feel about your progress.

Conclusion

It’s unlikely that there will ever be a perfect substitute for a qualified human coach helping you with your golf game, but the Mustard Golf app is an impressive first step in that direction.  If you’re looking to improve your swing and focus your practice rather than bouncing between random golf tips, this app is worth trying.

Visit Mustard Golf HERE

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The PXG Xtreme Tour golf ball is a softer ball that provides maximum distance for players under 95 MPH swing speed.  The PXG Xtreme Tour X has a firmer feel, more short game spin, and more speed for faster swinging players.

Introduction

Early last year, PXG showed that they’re as bold as ever, entering the competitive world of golf balls.  The PXG Xtreme golf ball [review HERE] proved to be a strong performer, and was consistently in my bag the last two seasons.  As we reach the end of 2024, PXG is doubling down on their commitment to golf balls with two new models: PXG Xtreme Tour and PXG Xtreme Tour X.  I tested both to see how the company has improved on the original.

Feel

For feel off the putter, the new PXG Xtreme Tour and PXG Xtreme Tour X golf balls bracket the original Xtreme.  The Tour X is firmer, and the Tour is softer.  Using a milled, stainless steel putter, the Xtreme Tour is quiet, low-pitched, and soft, even on longer putts.  In contrast, the Xtreme Tour X is firmer with a louder, crisper impact sound.  The gap between the two new offerings is a little above average for the difference in feel between a given OEM’s Tour balls.

Off a wedge or iron, both balls are more crisp and responsive than soft.  There’s a clear difference between the Tour X and the Tour – the Tour X is louder and firmer – but both produce a robust “click” when struck with speed.

If you like compression numbers, PXG reports that the new balls are both softer than the original.  The Xtreme had a compression rating of 110 with the new Tour X at 108 and the Tour at 97.8.

Short Game

In my wedge testing, I found that the PXG Xtreme Tour X spun measurably more than the PXG Xtreme Tour golf ball.  Both provide excellent short game spin and are in the same class with the highest spinning Tour balls.  The gap between the two was not huge, but it was consistent across pure strikes and mishits.  As I often say, I don’t think that the difference would be obvious on the course, but players looking for every least revolution should opt for the Tour X.

PXG continues to be an industry leader in sharing data, loading their website with numbers from their golf ball testing.  Their data – based on a 60 yards pitch with a 56 degree wedge – shows that the Xtreme Tour X is the highest spinning in their line up, outpacing the Xtreme Tour by about 200 RPM.  They also provide a comparison to several Pro V1 models, showing that PXG balls produce a little more ball speed, higher apex, and very similar spin (7 RPM difference with the Tour X vs. Pro V1x).

It’s always worth remembering that robot testing is, like anything else outside of your personal fitting and testing, just one consideration.  It is not the alpha and omega.

Finally, it’s very interesting to note that PXG shows a difference between the performance of the PXG Xtreme Tour and the PXG Xtreme Tour Yellow.  The yellow version is the lowest spinning – about 70 RPM less than the white Xtreme Tour in the wedge testing.

Long Game

In my iron testing, both PXG Xtreme Tour balls provided the kind of performance that I expect from a golf ball in this category.  They had strong, consistent ball speed and ample spin.  The gap between the two was small with the irons, but there was a bit more spin with the Tour X.  Moving to the driver, I found a little more distance with the Tour X.  The ball speed was, on average, a touch higher, and the small amount of extra spin didn’t hurt me because I’m naturally low spin.  For the small boost in yardage, I’ll game the Tour X over the Tour, but I wouldn’t consider the Tour short or unplayable.

Turning to PXG’s numbers, they show the Xtreme Tour X with small ball speed edges over the Xtreme Tour (0.2 MPH with 7I, 0.5 MPH with driver), and both being faster than either Pro V1 (the largest gap is 1.3 MPH).  Spin rates are very close – the Tour X spins about 250 RPM more than Tour with a 7I, 70 RPM more with driver.

At 100 MPH, these differences translate to a 2.5 yard advantage for the Tour X which is also 5 yards longer than the original PXG Xtreme.  With an 85 MPH driver swing, the Tour is reported to be 1 yard longer than the Tour X.

Also, PXG reports a difference between the white and yellow versions of the Xtreme Tour.  The yellow version spins a little more with the 7I – 60 RPM – and a bit less with the driver – 64 RPM.

Conclusion

The original PXG Xtreme golf ball wasn’t an experiment, it was a warning shot to the rest of the golf ball market.  With the Xtreme Tour and Xtreme Tour X, PXG shows that they’re committed to making an impact in this competitive sector with two premium offerings geared toward different feel preferences and players with varying swing speeds.

Buy PXG Xtreme Tour Golf Balls HERE

The post PXG Xtreme Tour & Xtreme Tour X Golf Ball Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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The Square Golf launch monitor is fun, easy to use, and has strong accuracy.  Swing Stick adds the ability to use this anywhere.  Fun simulation.  Good value.

Save 10% with code PLUGGEDINGOLF.  Shop HERE

Introduction

After an explosive 2023, the personal launch monitor category has taken a breath in 2024.  But as we start to look to 2025, we have received one exciting new entry: the Square Golf launch monitor.  Thanks to the innovative Swing Stick, this is a launch monitor that you can use anywhere and anytime.  In this review, I’ll explain whether or not that’s enough to vault Square Golf to the top of the list of personal launch monitors.

Set Up & Ease of Use

The Square Golf launch monitor is a fairly small device with minimal buttons and no screen.  After charging the launch monitor and downloading the app, getting it up and running is very simple.  The connection from device to app is strong and is established quickly.  Additionally, the app – which I will discuss more shortly – is responsive and intuitive.  One thing I particularly like is that you can use your Square Golf LM without creating an account or logging in.

The one complaint I have about this device is that it can be difficult to get your ball into the hitting area.  The hitting area is fairly small – not quite 6″ X 6″ – and there’s no indication on the device as to whether you’re too close, too far, etc.  There is a small indicator on the bottom of the app, but this isn’t explained in the manual – I found it on my own.  On the positive, there is a light and an auditory cue that let you know when you’ve positioned the ball correctly.  Once you’ve found the right spot, it’s easy enough to find it again.

The Square Golf App

The Square Golf app is wonderfully inclusive, working on PC, tablets, and smart phones and with Apple’s App Store, Google Play, and Windows.  My testing was done on an iPhone, and I found the app to be excellent.  The menus are clear and easy to understand.  There are a nice array of customizations and settings, but it’s not overwhelming.  You can get up and running in just a couple taps.

The Square Golf launch monitor app offers several modes of play.  In Graphic Mode, you’re on a seaside driving range, watching your shots fly through the air with a shot tracer.  Ball data is displayed along the bottom: ball speed, direction, spins, and distances.  You can customize this mode with multiple camera angles.

Data Mode is similar, but it trades the shot tracer graphics for an image of impact and club metrics.  You get the same ball data, but this mode adds club data: swing path, face angle, dynamic loft, and angle of attack.

Closest to the Pin Mode gamifies your practice with a challenge.  You can set the distance from 30 to 150 yards, and you can select the green speed.  To make your practice more realistic, you can have the app randomize the distance after each shot.  Dynamic camera angles makes this feel like a video game, in a good way.

Finally, there’s a Putting Mode, which is somewhat unusual in launch monitors at this price.  As with Closest to the Pin, you can choose the distance (5 to 50 feet) and the green speed (8 to 13).  You can also opt for fixed, increasing, or random distances.

Square Golf Simulation

At the time of this writing, the Square Golf launch monitor offers ten simulated golf courses with ten more on the way.  In the app, you can choose your green speed and play with up to four players.  The graphics are good, and there’s nice variety among the ten courses.  More importantly, play moves along quickly thanks to the simple controls – you select your club, tap the screen left or right to adjust your aim, and swing.

That brisk pace of play makes this some of the most fun simulated golf I’ve played.  One piece of advice: I would strongly recommend getting a stand for your phone or tablet if you’re going to play a lot.  Bending over before every shot to change clubs, adjust your aim, or take a closer look at your numbers isn’t much fun.

When it comes to cost, the Square Golf launch monitor takes a unique approach, charging by the hole.  Each hole costs 1 credit, and you get 1,000 credits with your purchase.  Credits cost between 4 cents and 2.6 cents, depending on the amount you buy.  While I’d prefer an upfront cost or that simulation simply be included, the cost of less than $1 per round seems negligible.

Square Golf Swing Stick

Perhaps the most unusual thing about the Square Golf launch monitor is the inclusion of the Swing Stick.  The Swing Stick is roughly 27 inches long with a proper golf grip and a rectangular, mirrored device on the other end.  The purpose of the Swing Stick is to allow you to use this launch monitor in conventional indoor settings – those without nets or the ceiling height to swing a full club.

You can use the Swing Stick in any mode – driving range, putting, or simulated golf.  Swinging it is a little jarring at first due to the unusual length, weighting, and the “click” of impact, but I got used to it fairly quickly.

In putting mode, I found the Swing Stick very accurate.  For full swings, I think the Swing Stick is accurate with regard to dispersion, but the distances simply are what they are.  It does seem to accurately measure your swing speed, but most of the distance equation is what club you select.  I would advise you spend some time on the range with the Swing Stick before you take it into golf simulation.

Overall, I think the Swing Stick is a fantastic addition to the Square Golf launch monitor.  There are loads of people who would love to play simulator golf but don’t have the space.  This is a solution to that problem.  For those who really want to get serious, I could even see having two Swing Sticks – one with a putter grip, one with a swing grip.

Value

The Square Golf launch monitor retails for $700.  You can save 10% with code PLUGGEDINGOLF.  Shop HERE

This is a good price.  It’s well above the value king, the SwingCaddie SC4, at $390 [review HERE], but it’s on par with favorites like the Garmin R10 [review HERE] at $600 and the MLM2PRO [review HERE] at $700.  On the other hand, it’s a fraction of the cost of the SkyTrak+ [review HERE] at $2,700 and the Full Swing KIT [review HERE] at $5000.

If you have a great indoor practice set up where you can hit balls, the Square Golf deserves to be considered among the others mentioned above.  If you don’t, the Square Golf stands alone for its ability to unlock indoor golf.

Conclusion

It would have been easy for Square Golf to design a strong app and roll out another basic launch monitor.  Instead, they’re offering something genuinely novel with the inclusion of the Swing Stick.  If you want to unlock the ability to play simulated golf anywhere and upgrade your practice with strong performance data, check out the Square Golf launch monitor.

Save 10% with code PLUGGEDINGOLF

Buy the Square Golf Launch Monitor HERE

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The Canon PowerShot GOLF Digital Laser Rangefinder includes a unique feature – a built-in camera.  In addition to slope adjusted distances and stabilization, the unit can also capture photos and videos.  Compact and quality built.

Introduction

With all the rangefinders currently available in the golf market, from startup brands to well established leaders in the field, I was a bit surprised to learn that Canon was entering the fray.  Sure, Canon is a brand with big time name recognition.  But golf?  Then I noted that the Canon PowerShot GOLF has a built-in camera and the picture became much clearer.  Is the PowerShot GOLF going to revolutionize the laser rangefinder category?  Only one way to find out – a thorough Plugged In Golf review.

Setup & Ease of Use

This section was a mixed bag for me.  I was instantly able to use the Canon PowerShot GOLF as a laser rangefinder.  The basic operation was much like most rangefinders – press the front top button to turn the unit on and press it again to check distance.  Locking into the pin was quick and there was a positive vibration confirmation.  So far so good.

Under the adjustable eyepiece I found the “ZOOM” button which did just that, taking the 6x magnification to 12x.  Holding the Canon PowerShot GOLF in my right hand as I normally do, I learned to use my left thumb to press the ZOOM button.  Doable, but a bit awkward.

That was as far as I got straight out of the box.  The paper instructions included a parts identification list, quick start guide, and a link to the Advanced Users Guide.  What wasn’t in the box was a power cable or a microSD card.  I’m fine with a USB-C charging cable not being including (more on that in a moment), but a microSD is required to utilize the camera feature.

After purchasing a microSD card, I was off and running capturing photos and videos.  After a quick read of the Advanced Users Guide I learned that the main top button has two depression levels.  Pressing half way down engages the distance measurement, while full engagement captures a screenshot.  To take a video, you press the red button under the eyepiece, and press it again to stop the recording.  You can scroll through the photos and videos via the MENU button and following the somewhat confusing prompts that involve the on/off, zoom, and red buttons.

I’d love to show you the actual photos I captured, but I was unable to download them.  Turns out you need a USB-C cable capable of data transfer or an SD port on your laptop to download the files – neither of which I have.

There are two more features to highlight before moving on to the next section.  First, slope adjustment can be turned on or off via the menu.  In the off setting, a blue indicator light flashes, as shown above.  The LASER toggle on the side of the Canon PowerShot GOLF turns the ranging laser on or off – an important safety feature when pointing the unit at people.

Accuracy & Performance

As a laser rangefinder, the Canon PowerShot GOLF has several great features and most importantly is super accurate.  Canon states the rangefinder is accurate to +/- 2 yards at up to 800 yards.  I never found it outside 1 yard difference when compared to my Nikon laser or Bushnell GPS [Phantom 3 review HERE].  I’m a big fan of image stabilization – especially when the unit is small and lightweight like the PowerShot GOLF.  When locked onto a flag, a pin graphic appears for visual confirmation and the unit gives a quick vibration.

Beyond the cool factor, the digital zoom has practical applications like seeing if your ball is actually on the green.  It’s also nice to zoom in on a bird while waiting patiently for your playing partner to go through the seemingly endless checklist in their mind before swinging.

I wear a medium glove, and you can see the Canon PowerShot GOLF is relatively small in my hand.  The size was great for slipping into my back pocket and even leaving it there while hitting.  Plus at 0.33 lbs. the unit is ideal for golfers who enjoy carrying their bag.  Rated IPX4, a little rain should not an issue.

Value

The Canon PowerShot GOLF has a list price of $350.  As a laser rangefinder, that’s a fair price for a unit with slope, color display, and an extra feature like its image stabilization or zoom.  The photo and video capabilities make the unit a considerable value, but may require additional expenditures for file storage and retrieval.

Conclusion

In the crowded laser rangefinder space, the Canon PowerShot GOLF certainly stands out for its camera feature.  The question I kept trying to answer during testing was, “Who does it serve?”  Does having a photo with distance data superimposed on the hole offer a golfer anything?  I guess if you are a shot tracking maniac, the extra data could be of value post round.  As for the video, it seems we all have a smart phone at the ready, more than capable of capturing swings, celebrations, and the likes.  Bottom line is I’m just not sold on the camera.  I truly like the size, optical quality, and solid feel of the PowerShot GOLF – and the Canon name certainly adds legitimacy.  But I believe that, just like its devoid-of-marketing box, the PowerShot Golf isn’t going to garner many looks.

Visit Canon HERE

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The Axglo e5 electric push cart offers premium features at a more affordable price.  Follow mode is great fun and allows you to preserve your energy for the game.  There are some small issues, but the overall user experience is good.

Introduction

Electric push carts, though still far from the norm, are becoming more common sights on golf courses around the US.  From high end models like the Motocaddy M7 [review HERE] to the budget friendly Kam Kaddy [review HERE], this new category is giving companies a chance to test all types of different features and price levels.

Canadian manufacturer Axglo is trying their hand at the electric push cart with their new e5.  After their V3 [review HERE] and Flip N Go [review HERE] push carts received positive reviews from Zack and Drew last year, I decided to test the e5 to see how it stacks up in this competitive arena.

Set Up & Ease of Use

After unboxing the Axglo e5 electric push cart, I was pleased to find that there was no assembly required.  Folding and unfolding the cart is a simple three step process – there are latches for the handle and rear wheels, and the front wheels fold and unfold with buttons that are labeled, appropriately, “Fold” and “Unfold”.

The battery can be charged separately or while installed on the cart.  Removing the battery is done with the push of a button, and it slides back in just as easily.  Per Axglo, the battery takes six hours to charge fully and should last for 36 holes.

Included in the box is a thorough instruction manual.  I would strongly recommend giving it a quick once over to avoid frustration.  The operations of the Axglo e5 electric push cart aren’t complicated, but they aren’t necessarily intuitive.

The remote control did not require pairing with the cart.  It had a strong, stable connection with the Axglo e5 over any reasonable distance.  There is also an Axglo app that will allow you to customize your experience, but it’s not required.

Before moving on, I’ll note the dimensions of the Axglo e5 electric push cart.  Folded, it’s 25″ X 16.5″ X 15″.  This is one of the more compact electric push carts I’ve tested.  With the battery, it weighs about 35 pounds.

Storage & Features

The Axglo e5 electric push cart’s console is a bit smaller than most push carts.  The top has a pencil holder and space to stash a scorecard.  On the underside of the handle, there’s a USB port where you can charge the remote control or any other USB device.

Inside the console is a single compartment.  This is big enough for a dozen balls, a rangefinder, or your wallet, keys, and phone.  It isn’t big enough for a large water bottle, but Axglo does include a beverage holder.  The compartment lid is held shut with magnets, which is a really nice touch.

The Axlgo e5 electric push cart also has a dedicated spot for the umbrella holder.  This is one of the sturdiest umbrella holders I’ve seen on a push cart – you won’t have to worry about the wind.  Axglo also includes a phone holder.

Axglo also has a range of other accessories you can add to your cart.  Above, you can see their cooler bag.  This is the biggest storage accessory I’ve ever seen on a push cart, allowing you to bring a load of drinks, snacks, or anything else you might want on the course.  There’s also a seat and a storage bag for keeping your trunk free of grass and mud.

On-Course Performance

The Axglo e5 electric push cart has three modes of operation: Follow, Assisted Driving, and Remote Control.  I’ll discuss each one in detail.

Assisted Driving is the most basic level of what an electric push cart can be.  You select a speed and the cart propels itself at that pace.  Your effort is required to steer.  To use this mode on the Axglo e5, push the central button twice, then spin the button to select the speed.  This works well, but it’s not perfect.  First, having to dial up your speed from zero every time is a bit annoying.  Additionally, there were times when I was trying to spin the button and accidentally pushed it, shutting it off.  On the plus side, the range of speeds is excellent: 0-9 km/h covers everything from a crawl to a light jog

The Remote Control mode allows you to use the remote to steer the Axglo e5.  There are numerous times in a round when this mode is best, particularly around the green.  I found that the connection from the cart to the remote was strong, but the steering was not terribly precise.  It’s great for moving around the fairway, but I would not trust it to navigate tight spaces around hazards or water.  You can control the speed from the remote control, which is a strong feature.

Finally, there is Follow mode, which is the real selling point.  In this mode, the Axglo e5 electric push cart simply follows the remote control without any input from the golfer.  This is far and away the most enjoyable mode of use, but it’s not perfect.  The e5 can get a little squirrelly with the routes it takes, and it’s capable of running things over if they get between you and the cart.  You still need to have some awareness of the e5, even in Follow mode.  All that said, to my knowledge the Axglo e5 is far and away the most affordable electric caddy with a Follow mode.

Across all modes, the Axglo e5 cart is very stable.  Axglo’s “Anti-Tipping Technology” showed its mettle on the course, refusing to tip even when I walked it across steep sidehills.  Per Axglo, the e5 is capable of climbing up to a 40-degree slope.  Additionally, there’s a battery life indicator on the LED display, and my testing supported Axglo’s claim of a 36-hole battery life.  One thing that helps preserve the battery is a fairly quick auto-shutoff, which can be annoying if you’re playing with a slow group.  Many times, I had to turn the e5 back on after my group’s tee shots.

While the Axglo e5 is not perfect, it still delivers all the benefits I’ve experienced from other electric push carts.  My energy throughout the round was much higher than when I carry my bag.  For players that love to walk but don’t have the strength or simply want to preserve their energy, an electric push cart is a great option.

Conclusion

At roughly $1,800, the Axglo e5 electric push cart is far from cheap, but it’s a tremendous value compared to it’s follow-enabled peers like the Stewart Q Follow [review HERE] at nearly $3,000.  If you’re looking for a push (pun intended) to get you walking the course again, this is definitely worth exploring.

Buy the Axglo e5 HERE

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50 Words or Less

The Tour Aim+ adds significant value to the Tour Aim but can also stand on its own.  A major upgrade to the Tour Aim’s putting feature.  Adds ball position and club face awareness to any alignment stick.

Save 15% with the code PLUGGEDIN15 HERE

Introduction

The Tour Aim was one of the best things I saw at the 2024 PGA Show, and it did not disappoint when I got it in for review [read the review HERE].  It’s become a practice necessity for me due to its ease of use and versatility.  Tour Aim has recently added a new trainer to their line up, the aptly named Tour Aim+.  This add-on to the Tour Aim seeks to enhance an already great training aid, and I tested it to find out if it’s another must-have.

Set Up & Ease of Use

Like most training aids, the Tour Aim+ comes with a QR code instead of a printed instructional book.  The instructions aren’t really necessary as the three uses of the Tour Aim+ are easily discerned from the photos on the website and the descriptions on the box.

Adding the Tour Aim+ to your Tour Aim set up takes a couple seconds.  It consists of little more than snapping one of your alignment sticks into the clips on the Tour Aim+ and moving it into your preferred position.  If you’re using the Tour Aim+ for putting, it actually speeds the set-up by holding the two sticks in perfect parallel.

Effectiveness

The Tour Aim+ adds three functions to the Tour Aim.  First, it promotes consistent ball position and a square club face.

Second, the Tour Aim+ allows you to use a tee on any surface.  For players who practice on mats, this is a major upgrade.

The third function relates to the Tour Aim’s putting drill.  The Tour Aim+ holds the alignment sticks in perfect parallel while giving you a place to start your ball.  It also gives you a reference for squaring the putter face.

All three of these functions work as advertised and add significant value to an already great training aid.  For me, the putting feature is the best.  I get pretty OCD about my putting practice, so having the ball perfectly centered and my putter face square is a huge plus.

While I think the Tour Aim+ is great, I will throw in a couple small caveats.  First, the ball position feature works best on a mat.  If you’re hitting irons or wedges, you’re likely taking a divot.  This means you’ll want a fresh piece of grass for each shot, which would mean moving your entire Tour Aim set up.  If you’re more concerned with ball position that the full alignment package, you can solve this issue by using the Tour Aim+ with just one alignment stick (below).

The other thing to be aware of is that you’ll need shorter tees to use the Tour Aim+.  The tee holder works very well, but, of course, you can’t push your tee through the mat.  Figure out how high above the ground you like to tee the ball and buy tees that height, or break some wooden tees to length.

Longevity

Everything that gives the Tour Aim great longevity is true for the Tour Aim+ as well.  It’s small and light, it’s versatile, it sets up quickly, and you can use it anywhere.  This is a training aid that can and should live in your bag so that you use it every time you practice.  Even if you’re just using a single alignment stick, the Tour Aim+ can add a couple more layers of precision to your practice.

Value

The Tour Aim+ costs $60.

You can save 15% by using the code PLUGGEDIN15 HERE

Like the Tour Aim, this training aid is a must-buy in my book.  With the 15% off code, you can get the Tour Aim and Tour Aim+ for a total of $115, which is below average for one training aid.  These are both multi-function tools that are as valuable to a Tour player as they are for a novice.

Conclusion

It’s not often that I give any product, let alone a training aid, an unconditional endorsement, but I think the Tour Aim and Tour Aim+ are trainers that every serious golfer should own.  Together, they will help you dial in every element of your game and make your practice more precise and productive.

Buy Tour Aim+ HERE

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50 Words or Less

The Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS is accurate and easy to use.  Touchscreen and slope compensation offer a big upgrade from the previous model.  Stat tracking and strong magnet add to the value and desirability.

Introduction

When you think of distance measurement devices in golf, Bushnell is certainly a household name.  And while laser rangefinders like the Pro X3+ [full review HERE] may be top of mind, Bushnell’s GPS units are popular alternatives.  My personal favorite has been the Phantom 2, which I use nearly every time I play.  Learning Bushnell added slope and a touchscreen display to the new Phantom 3, I couldn’t wait to give it a try.

Setup & Ease of Use

In the box I found the Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS, long USB-C cable, belt clip, carabiner, and Quick Start Guide.  The Phantom 3 came partially charged, and I was able to turn it on via the single side button and jump right into discovering all the features.  One huge difference from the previous model is the touchscreen, which makes navigation much simpler.  Other than responding to screen prompts, the only function I had to remember was to use the side button to go ‘back.’

At the course, hitting the main Play Golf icon engaged the GPS satellite search which took a minute or two to find the nearest course.  After selecting the course, the Bushnell Phantom 3 displayed the distance to the middle of the first green, along with front and back distances underneath.  Those distances are slope adjusted unless you turn that feature off.  If all you are interested in are distances, there’s no need to touch the unit again – it will automatically advance holes.  But the Phantom 3 has a ton of additional features worth exploring.

To start with, you can adjust the pin position, view distances to hazards, and set the home screen button function (including shot distance calculator).  And as you play, you can keep score, track putts, note hit fairway or miss direction, and note green hit or miss location.  Plus in the background the Bushnell Phantom 3 has a running round timer and odometer. 

Accuracy & Performance

The main thing most of us want in a GPS device is accurate distances, and the Bushnell Phantom 3 performed very well.  Checking yardages against my Garmin S70 Smartwatch [full review HERE] I occasionally found a yard or two difference, but the majority of the time they were in agreement.  Same went for sprinkler head comparisons as captured above.  I had the similar results checking yardages with my laser rangefinder in conjunction with the pin sheet.  Front or back were off a yard on a couple holes – but that could also have been reflective of the pin sheet accuracy.

There are three main reasons I use and like the Phantom device.  First, it’s great for arriving at the ball – mine or my playing partner’s – and knowing the middle distance.  It just keeps the process flowing.  That’s not to say I don’t often pull out my laser rangefinder to obtain some additional yardages, but I already have a good idea of what club to pull.  Second, and this is a biggie on one course I frequent, two holes have mounds that block line of sight.  I may still scramble to determine my target line, but with the Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS I have the yardages that would be cumbersome to derive with a laser rangefinder.  And finally, I love the strong BITE magnet for mounting on the cart frame.  I find my cart mates often looking at my Phantom or asking about distances – again, keeping the playing process flowing.

The belt clip functioned great, it’s just not something I’d use.  If I’m carrying, I don’t want something on my waist – and that’s where the carabiner is a perfect option.  For me the Phantom 3 is ideal for cart use.  Plus the compact size is excellent for grabbing off the cart and sliding into my pocket when it’s cart path only.

Value

The Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS retails for $150 – a $20 bump from the Phantom 2.  With the added touchscreen, slope, and stat tracking features, that’s a reasonable increase and still makes the Phantom 3 a good value.

You can get the same features in the base Bushnell ION watch, if you’re ok with sacrificing screen size for wearability.  And if a watch is a consideration, the Bushnell ION Elite [full review HERE] for $50 more is going to be enticing.  For a comparably priced GPS device the Shot Scope H4 [full review HERE] adds true shot tracking.

Conclusion

The Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS is a brilliant alternative to a GPS golf watch or laser rangefinder for its size, design, and price point.  The accuracy and ease of use make it a great device for golfers looking to make smart decisions on the course.  The additional stat tracking features are a nice addition – especially when synced with the Bushnell Golf app.

Buy the Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS HERE

The post Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope GPS Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

Costa sunglasses are high quality shades that come in a wide range of styles.  Several different lenses in both glass and polycarbonate allow you to get what you need for your environment.

Introduction

A trip to the Costa sunglasses website reveals that this company has spent the last forty years making sunglasses for those that spend their time on the water.  They’ve made their way into the golf space thanks to the support of golf’s #1 needle mover, Tiger Woods.  After our resident sunglass expert Matt Meeker gave them a thumbs up in his review [find it HERE], I wanted to test them for myself.

Style & Fit

For this review, I tested three pairs of Costa sunglasses: Spearo, Pescador, and Taxman (the frame Tiger Woods has been wearing lately).

The Spearo that I’m wearing in the photo above has the Blackout frames and Blue Mirror Polarized Polycarbonate lens.  It’s also available in a Tortoiseshell frame and there are three other lens options.  The Spearo XL has five frame colors and as many as six lens choices.

Per Costa’s sizing, the standard Spearo is in the XXL category and Regular Fitting.  Costa is at the leading edge for offering loads of sizing data for each model as well as an online tool that lets you try them on virtually.

The Pescador shown above is Net Grey with Blue Rubber and has Blue Mirror Polarized Glass lenses.  The name “Net Grey” refers to the fact that these frames are made from recycled fishing nets.  The blue rubber around the nose and ears is a cool detail, but it’s barely visible when they’re on your face.  Still, Costa offers these with Grey Rubber as well as as Grey and Light Grey frames.  There are a total of three different lens options.

Costa calls the Pescador a size Large and Wide Fitting.  I will admit to not fully understanding the sizing system, as they feel very similar to the Spearo, and Costa’s measurements show that the Spearo is actually 6mm wider than the Pescador.  Thankfully, in addition to their Frame Advisor [check it out HERE], Costa sunglasses offers a 30-day return window if your shades don’t fit.

Finally, the Taxman sunglasses are shown above in the Matte Black frame with the Green Mirror Polarized Glass lenses.  The frames are available in Matte Grey and Matte Olive, and there are six lens options with the Matte Black frame.

The Taxman is size Large and Wide Fitting.  It has the largest lenses of the three models that I tested and the sportiest look.  While they’re not as go-anywhere as the Spearo, the Taxman is still fairly traditional looking.  Unlike some of the trendiest shades out there, you’ll be able to wear these for years without looking so 2024.

Performance

In addition to testing three different frames, I tested three different Costa sunglasses lenses: Green Mirror Glass, Blue Mirror Glass, and Blue Mirror Polycarbonate.  All of Costa’s lenses are polarized, which is key for reducing glare.

Both the Blue and Green Mirror lenses are billed by Costa as being for full sun with a “cool neutral viewing experience, with natural color enhancing and glare reduction.”  I found the Blue Mirror to be a bit more versatile than the Green Mirror.  Both were excellent in full sun, but the Blue Mirror was also wearable in overcast conditions.  The Green Mirror was a bit too dark when it was cloudy.  Both lenses improved the contrast in blues and greens and did a great job allowing my eyes to relax.

I was also very interested to see if I could find a difference between the Blue Mirror lenses in glass versus polycarbonate.  Per Costa, glass offers superior optical quality, but polycarbonate is lighter and possibly more durable.  While none of the sunglasses I tested were notably heavy, the Spearo with polycarbonate lenses was over 1/3 lighter than the Pescador with glass – 28 grams versus 48 grams.  I did not notice a difference in the quality of the two lenses, but the polycarbonate was a bit brighter than the glass.

Value

Costa sunglasses range in price from $166 to $400 with most around $200 to $250.  The Pescador costs $214, and the Taxman and Spearo are $292.

Both the Costa Spearo and Costa Taxman came with the zippered hard case, shown above.  The Pescador comes with an “Untangle Our Oceans” drawstring bag.  Given that all three models are north of $200, I’d like to see the hard case as a standard inclusion.

Conclusion

While wearing the same Costa sunglasses as Tiger Woods certainly didn’t help me to play like him, I will tip my hat his way for turning the golf world on to some great shades.  Costa offers a huge array of style choices from classic to sporty.  Just as important, they have a great selection of lenses so you can pick the best option for the conditions you find yourself in most.

Visit Costa Sunglasses HERE

The post Costa Sunglasses Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart performs beautifully on the course.  Easy to fold and unfold.  Loads of storage and accessories.  Adjusts to fit any bag from child-size to staff bag.

Introduction

There is tremendous diversity in golf bags.  From kids bags to Sunday bags to monsterous cart bags, they come in all shapes and sizes.  Unfortunately, most push carts are one-size-fits-all.

The new Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart is different, offering a new feature that allows you to tailor the cart to fit your bag’s height.  I tested one to see if this feature is a genuine improvement or a solution in search of a problem.

Size & Set Up

Folded for storage or transports, the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart measures 26″ x 15″ x 16.5″.  That expands to 40″ long, 28.5″ wide, and 52″ tall.  It weighs a sturdy 18 pounds.  Folded up, it’s an easy carry by the large handle.  The one thing to be mindful of is that the wheels do not pop off easily for transport, so it will either fit in your trunk or it won’t.

When I unboxed the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart, I was pleased to find that it required zero assembly.  After cutting off the tag, it was ready to roll.

Folding and unfolding the Ridgeline 3 is a simple two step process.  There is a large grey latch at the base of the handle, like most push carts.  The other piece is unique, but easily understood.  The silver latch near the base (see above) gets pressed “open” to fold the cart.  When unfolding, it snaps into place automatically.

Storage & Accessories

The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 has a large console where you can store anything you need to keep handy.  On top of the storage compartment, there are elastic bands to hold a scorecard and a pencil.  Below that, a net gives you the ability to stash a big water bottle or a rangefinder.

Inside the console, there are two golf ball storage spots.  I like these dedicated spots for golf balls – having them roll around is noisy and disorganized.  The main compartment is large enough to empty your pockets into – watch, wallet, keys, etc.  Alternately, you can fit another dozen golf balls in there.

Behind the console, there’s an elastic band meant to hold a phone or GPS unit.  This is a common push cart feature, but I’ve never found it very useful.  Perhaps I’m too anxious, perhaps I push my carts too aggressively, but I never feel like the band offers enough security for me to not worry about my device.  Your mileage may vary.

The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart comes with an umbrella holder that screws into the center of the handle.  You can set the angle to match your handle height, which is a nice feature.  Sun Mountain also includes a cup holder which sits on one of the two accessory pegs.  There is a wide variety of additional accessories from Sun Mountain that includes a cooler, rangefinder pouch, speaker, and several storage packs.

On-Course Performance

I thought I would start this section talking about the Vertical Fit Technology, but when I got it on the course, I knew I had to begin with the quality of the roll.  The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart features large “high impact wheels” and stainless steel bearings that roll smoother than any push cart I’ve used.  The cart moves easily through rough, divots, and over elevation changes.  It also has a very wide, stable stance, so I never had to worry about it toppling over.

Moving to the Vertical Fit Technology, it works just as promised.  For my Vessel Sunday III stand bag [review HERE], I had the height setting near the top to align the strap with the handle of the bag.  The straps and brackets adjust easily to accommodate thick cart bags or skinny walking bags.

To test the other end of the spectrum, I slid my daughter’s PING Prodi G set [review HERE] onto the Ridgeline 3.  After the complimentary adjustment, her clubs are a bit too long for the bag, but this set still gave the Ridgeline 3 a chance to show its versatility.  By sliding the upper bracket down, the bag was securely held in place.

Finally, the Ridgeline 3 features a sturdy hand brake.  I strongly prefer this option to a foot brake – it’s easier to activate, and there’s no question whether or not it’s engaged.  The brake was very effective at keeping the cart from rolling away, even on steep hills.

The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart is available in six colors – black, white, silver, blue, sand, and pink.

Conclusion

The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 push cart is one of the rare golf products that you can buy for a youth golfer to use for their entire life.  Or it could be shared among a family of golfers.  Even if you never use the Vertical Fit Technology, the solid construction and smooth roll make this a push cart every walker should take a look at.

Buy the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 Push Cart HERE

The post Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 Push Cart Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

The Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag is a great option for players who want an upscale golf bag but don’t want to pay the big price.  Premium materials, thoughtful features, and still light enough to carry regularly.

Save 10% with code PLUGGEDIN when you shop HERE

Introduction

Sunday Golf started with the Loma, a modern take on their namesake Sunday bag [review HERE].  Since then, they’ve expanded their line, now running the gamut from minimalism to the appropriately named Big Rig cart bag [review HERE].  Sitting in the middle is the Ryder, a classic stand bag that’s capable of being everything to everyone.  The Ryder recently got an upgraded S-Class version, and I tested one to see how it compares to other premium golf bags.

Looks

The look of stand bags is changing rapidly.  Thin nylon and huge logos are out; premium materials and timeless designs are in.  The Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag hops on board with a vegan leather exterior.  You can get the S-Class in all black or black with white trim (seen here).  For me, this panda colorway is far and away the best looking Ryder bag.  The white is bright, providing great contrast against the black elements.

Additionally, the Ryder S-Class is almost completely logo-free.  The standard Ryder has very small, tasteful logos, but the S-Class makes many of them white-on-white for a stealth look.  If you know, you know.

If you want to add your own flair to the Ryder S-Class, Sunday Golf will embroider two lines of text – eight characters each – for just $24.  This may be the most affordable way to get your name on your bag.

Features

While Sunday Golf wanted to give players the on-trend, elevated look, they knew they already had a winning design with the Ryder.  As such, they did not mess with the features of the original [OG Ryder review HERE].

Sunday Golf is all about the fun and the good vibes, so let’s start with the Frosty Pocket, a cooler pocket big enough to hold four cans.  It’s positioned on the back of the bag for easier access when you’re riding or pushing.

Including the Frosty Pocket, there are six zippered pockets on the Ryder S-Class golf bag as well as two non-zippered pockets.  There is a velour-lined valuables pocket above the full-length apparel pocket.  A large ball pocket sits below the Frosty Pocket, flanked by a small zippered pocket that seems designed for ball markers and tees.  I found the non-zippered pockets (above) most interesting as they’re an uncommon feature.  While some players may want more security, I think either of these spots could be great for quickly accessing a rangefinder.

Beyond the storage, the Ryder S-Class has holders for all the key essentials.  There’s an umbrella loop that’s out of the way, near the legs.  Additionally, there’s a Velcro glove holder and a towel loop.  Sunday Golf also includes a matching rain hood.

Finally, a thumbs up to Sunday Golf for keeping it fun with a nice array of extras.  The Ryder S-Class ships with a Sunday Golf car freshener, stickers, and a branded mini marker.  These are the nice little extras that tell me that a brand gets it.

Performance

The Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag is full-sized and full-featured but still manages to be light weight.  At just under five pounds, it’s easy to carry, but it has enough storage for the golfer who rides or pushes.

Ryder’s 7.5″ 5-way top has full-length dividers for each compartment.  I loaded in fourteen clubs, all with midsized grips, and had no significant issues.  My preference would be for the top section to be larger, but that’s just because I like all my headcovers to be in that area.

Even with a full load of clubs, the Ryder S-Class golf bag is a very pleasant carry.  The backpack straps are “self-adjusting” and keep the bag balanced.  When you have the bag over both shoulders, the padding on the side of the bag (below) provides a nice cushion.

In addition to the backpack straps, there are three handles on the Ryder S-Class – on the top, on the spine, and below the ball pocket.  The one at the bottom is barely noticeable, but it’s a big help for getting the bag in or out of your car.

For those that ride or push, the Ryder S-Class golf bag has a cart strap pass-through that keeps the strap from blocking access to your valuables pocket.  This only appears on the right side of the bag, because there are no pockets on the upper left.

Also for the rider or pusher, the backpack straps detach from the bag in a few seconds.  This is an underrated feature that I wish more bags had.  For golfers who don’t carry, backpack straps are a nuisance, blocking access to at least half the pockets.  Making it easy to take them off makes the Ryder S-Class a true do-everything golf bag.

The Sunday Ryder S-Class golf bag has a sturdy stand mechanism that operates by tilting 2/3 of the base.  I strongly prefer this style of stand versus the “foot switch” for durability purposes.  Additionally, it gives the bag more stability when it’s tilted over.

Finally, I want to note something unusual about the Sunday Ryder S-Class golf bag: the lifetime warranty.  Sunday Golf offers every buyer a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own the bag.  While that doesn’t cover everything – breaking the legs in a fit of rage is on you – it does give you some assurance that the bag will last.  They also give you 30 days to try the bag and swap it for another if you’re not happy.  That’s a lot more customer service than you get from most brands.

Conclusion

At the time of this writing, the Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag sells for $270 ($243 with the 10% off code below), a $30 premium over the standard Ryder.  For the player who wants a modern, elevated stand bag, the Ryder S-Class, at over $100 below its competitors, is a smart, easy choice.

Visit Sunday Golf HERE

Save 10% with code PLUGGEDIN

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