Jun 30, 2010

PEI Golf - The "Complete" Golf Destination

Today was a crazy day preparing for our family’s 14+ day Summer Adventure to beautiful Prince Edward Island. It’s been many years since I’ve visited the shores of PEI but I have fond memories of my last visit some 30+ years ago. Digging for clams was the way my uncle keep my cousin and I busy but we were 12 and usually looking for trouble. I also remember eating well and seeing a lot of amazing things.

Who knows what this family adventure will bring (I’m sure some clam digging for my 3 kids) but I know my golf clubs are packed and I’m looking forward to some PEI golf. I was lucky enough to ask Barry McLeod the COO of PEI Golf some questions before my trip about golfing in PEI.

1)For a person who has never golfed in PEI before what are the three most important things to expect from golfing in PEI?
1. The uniqueness of the courses even though they are so close to each other
2. The value compared against the quality and service level of all the courses in PEI versus other locations
3. The quality and array of culinary offerings at exceptionally reasonable prices for post-golf

2)What would be one PEI golf course you would consider a hidden gem and why?
Avondale – it is less know for sure, it is a course that is located between two of the more densely populated golf course regions on the Island, but in incredible shape, with some great holes and it is a very “woodland” style course that is quite different from other PEI courses

3)What’s your favorite course and why?
Brudenell – because it is the course that I played growing up as a kid, it has 6 par 3’s, six par 4’s and six par 5’s which you don’t see that often, and it is located right on the Brudenell River, with the river itself coming into play quite often

4)What’s the best after round beverage after a day of golf in PEI?
Gahan Micro brewed beer (right here on PEI) – the “Iron horse Brown”

5)What’s the best after round local snack after a day of golf in PEI?
Lobster wrap with Seafood chowder

6)If you were to describe PEI Golf in one word what would that word be?
The “complete” golf destination


About Golf PEI
Golf PEI is an industry association devoted to the promotion and development of golf on PEI. Golf PEI is represented by golf courses across the province. Working toward a common vision with commitment, these operators have established PEI as a golf Mecca for visitors across the country and around the world. In 2009, Prince Edward Island will make golf history as the first Canadian destination to host GOLF CHANNEL’S reality show Big Break. The first airing of Big Break Prince Edward Island is April 20 at 9pm EST on the GOLF CHANNEL Network.

The Quest For The Perfect Cap - Puma Golf Cap Review

I used to have a great hat a few years back and have been on the hunt for a replacement for what seems like forever. Don’t get me wrong I have tons of golf hats I just don’t have the one hat you pick up when your flying out the door for an early morning tee time. You know what I’m talking about, your “Go to hat”!

















I’ve been testing out some Puma caps for the last while and they just don't seem to work for me. The Military Style of the Special Edition Cap I really wanted it to work because it went great with the SE Polo and Crystal Blue Puma Pants I reviewed. It just didn't suit me. I don’t no whether it because I’m completely bald or the size of my head or what, it just didn't work.














Of course when I was done testing out the Puma SE Military Cap my wife said oh! those are really nice and of course they look great on her. She has hair all be it short and she rocks it big time. The things she likes about the SE Military Caps are the colors, the adjust-ability and the comfort. Oh ya and they look Puma cool!

So my search continues for the "Got To Hat".Even my little guy who's 2 and a half can rock a Puma visor I'll post a pic on Twitter to show you.

I wonder could I pull off what Rickie Fowler wears. Trendy Golf USA had some Rickie Fowler caps not to long ago but they all sold out real quick. So it looks like I'll have to wait, according to a recent tweet @PUMAGolf

@RickieFowlerPGA's monoline flatbrim hats are part of our headwear for Spring/Summer '11 & should be available in Nov






















Jun 28, 2010

Bubba Watson Is More Than A Big Swinger

Great to see Bubba Watson win his first PGA Tour event @TravelersChamp. I always love watching Bubba shape the ball around the golf course. It never seems like he hits a straight ball, he's always cutting it, drawing it, hooking it. Love to watch him swing. If you don't know a lot about Bubba Watson follow him on Twitter @bubbawatson he's great at responding to your tweets and check out this video from Golf Town a great video you won't be disappointed.




WITB Bubba Watson's Win At The Travelers Championship

DRIVER: Ping G15 (7.5°) with a Grafalloy prototype shaft
FAIRWAY WOOD: Ping G15 (17°) with a Project X 8A1 shaft
IRONS: Ping S59 (3-PW) with True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts
WEDGES: Ping Tour-W (52°, 56°, 63°) with True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts
PUTTER: Ping Redwood Anser
BALL: Titleist Pro V1x


Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/equipment/2010/06/winners-bag-bubba-watson-at-the-travelers-championship.html#ixzz0sCRsGhdW

Jun 23, 2010

59 Belts Offers Options Under $100 For a Custom Belt

59 Belts continues to impress me with their unique custom belts. More and more pros are sporting them lately including last weeks U.S. Open where Jason Gore was wearing a U.S. Patriot buckle and Angel Cabrera a Custom Personal Initials buckle. Of course not to be outdone Canada’s own Mike Weir was wearing a very cool 59 Belt with his initials. Well now you can get your own, custom made buckle with a lower price tag which is great for a custom belt.













































Initially when I first heard about these belts I thought, way to expensive no wonder I only see pros wearing them but by reducing the price to a more reasonable amount you may see these more at your local course. Most golf belts I own retail for under $75 CDN. For a custom one I might shell out a little more. Nice going 59 Belts!

Here's the scoop on the 5 options you have with the 59 Player Series of belts. Starting at a lower price of
$99.59/package (includes buckle and belt).

Option 1 U.S. Patriot / Limited edition of 99 with U.S. Open engraving

Option 2 Phenom Player

Option 3 Custom Player / Currently only available to customers who already own one of our custom stainless buckles. Custom Player designs also available when ordered in quantities of 8 or more. Email: Customlogo@59belts.com for a price quote in our new 59 Player style

Option 4 Custom Personal Initials / Classic mill (available only in our 59 Player font)

Option 5 Custom Personal Initials / Reverse mill (available only in our 59 Player font)

So they've done a custom buckle for Mike Weir. I wonder if they'd consider doing a buckle with some Canadian attitude. I know a few styles off hand that would look great and would definitely appeal to Canadians.
Firing off a email to 59 Belts now!

Mike Weir's  Custom Made 59 Belt

Jun 21, 2010

Introducing Cobra-Puma Golf Canada

PUMA Canada has acquired Cobra Golf in Canada as well.
Not to long ago Puma acquired Golf Equipment Manufacturer Cobra Golf. A huge move for Puma Golf putting them in a position to make a splash in the golf equipment world. Today it was announced that as part of this acquisition effective July 1st 2010, PUMA Canada will be the exclusive managing entity of a newly formed division called COBRA-PUMA GOLF Canada. Can't wait to see what the future holds for this innovative company in both apparel and now golf equipment.

Alexis Thompson



























From the Press Release:

This new division will be the selling, marketing and operational arm for both PUMA Golf's inventive footwear, apparel and accessories designs and Cobra Golf's advanced equipment, with superior performance. COBRA-PUMA GOLF Canada will help bring the game to golfers of all abilities, attitudes and styles across the country.

"We are extremely excited about the unification of the COBRA and PUMA GOLF brands under one roof. With Canada being one of the strongest golf markets in the world, it was crucial we had the right team in place to execute our mission to be the most desirable sportlifestyle golf company in the industry. With such a skilled and experienced team in Canada, it was a natural fit to have both brands represented in this new division of PUMA Canada, under Ted Fletcher's strategic leadership, " said Bob Philion, President of COBRA-PUMA GOLF.

Together, COBRA-PUMA GOLF has a strong and globally diverse on-course portfolio of products and athletes. Both Cobra and PUMA Golf are represented by the recently signed Alexis Thompson, who made history on June 16th 2010 as the youngest female golfer to turn professional. Cobra Golf is represented by 2010 Honda Classic winner Camilo Villegas, 2010 World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Champion Ian Poulter, and long-hitter J.B. Holmes. In addition, Cobra Golf offers a strong line-up of high-performance clubs, including the S2 family of drivers, fairways and irons, along with the recently introduced Baffler Rail Hybrid. PUMA Golf is represented by hot PGA Tour rookie Rickie Fowler; Swedish sensation and two-time LPGA winner - including the 2009 LPGA Championship winner, Anna Nordqvist; the always fashionable Swedish golfer and three-time European tour winner, Johan Edfors; and in Asia, PUMA Golf is represented by Hideto Tanihara, Japanese Golf Tour superstar and winner of eight professional tournaments as well as young Japanese Ladies Professional Golf Association (JLPGA) ingénue, winner of the 2008 money list for the JLPGA and 11-time JLPGA tournament winner, Miho Koga.

Full press release here.
For more information about COBRA-PUMA GOLF products and collections, visit golf.puma.com and cobragolf.com.

McDowell Survives Tricky Pebble Beach

What a great weekend I was actually off and it was Father’s Day so I got to spend time with my family and the stuff my 3 kids made for me was awesome. I didn’t play any golf but I did watch some late evening golf like most here on the East Coast.  



Here’s some observations on Graeme McDowell winning the U.S. Open and being the first European to win a U.S. Open in four decades. He deserved it straight up he hit the shots to win and made the least amount of mistakes. Where others faltered (especially Dustin Johnson) McDowell remained poised and consistent over 4 gruelling rounds of golf on a course that got harder and harder everyday. Some may say it was too difficult others like Ryan Moore felt the USGA made it too tricky. And I have to agree with a lot of what Ryan said after posting a +12 over the four days at Pebble Beach. This seems to be what the USGA wants it may just not be to every ones liking.

“U.S. Opens are U.S. Opens,” he said. “I feel like (the USGA) is … going for trickiness, to be honest. I’ve played in five now. Three out of five were just extremely tricky and they had nothing to do with being difficult.”


“They know they can do something about hole (No. 14). It would take not much to make that green halfway reasonable,” Moore said. “They refuse to do it. Beyond that, they make it more severe and tricky on top of it. I think they go for a spectacle or something. They want something to draw attention … or make everybody look stupid, I guess.

“It doesn’t reward good golf shots. That is why I don’t understand why you have a tournament that doesn’t reward good golf shots.” Read more here.


“It’s just a horrible golf hole the way (the USGA) set it up,” Moore said. “I don’t know what they’re trying to demand. Where is the skill? I don’t know. If you can’t even hit a shot to stay on the green, where is the skill involved?”
More on Moore here.


It was great to see McDowell embrace his father after winning the U.S. Open on a day where we celebrate our Fathers and what they mean to us. Something I’m sure the two will never forget. 




























My favorite on site Blogger following the U.S. Open had to be Stephanie Wei at Wei Under Par always insightful, funny and with her own distinct take on all things going on at the U.S. Open. Good job.

If you want to know what Graeme McDowell (Louis Copeland & Sons)  and others were wearing at the U.S. Open Mike over at Chapeau Noir Golf always has a good take on things even though he wasn’t actually there he always has something witty to say about golf fashion especially at the Majors.

So all in all not surprising that Graeme McDowell a Irishman from Portrush, Northern Ireland who just won a few weeks ago on the European Tour would win on a tough course on the West Coast of California for the U.S. Open. If you’ve ever been to Northern Ireland (which I have) and the area where Graeme grew up and played golf it’s easy to see why he’s the 2010 U.S. Open Champion today. Congrats!


  

























Graeme McDowell’s WITB 2010 U.S. Open

DRIVER: Callaway Big Bertha Fusion FT-3 (9.5°) with an Aldila Voodoo SVS 6 shaft
FAIRWAY WOOD: Callaway Diablo Edge Tour (15°) with an Aldila RIP Beta 60 shaft
HYBRIDS: Adams Idea Pro (18°) with an Aldila NVS 85 shaft, (21°) with an Aldila VooDoo XVS8 shaft
IRONS: Callaway X Forged (4-9) with Project X 6.5 Flighted shafts
WEDGES: Callaway X Forged Vintage (48°, 52°, 58°) with Project X 6.5 Flighted shafts
PUTTER: Odyssey White Hot #7
BALL: Callaway Tour ix




Jun 18, 2010

NationView Golf Course Impresses - Can't Wait To Play 18

I had the pleasure finally this week to play the NationView Golf Course in South Mountain, Ontario although I only got to play 9 holes I came away impressed with the layout and especially the greens. NationView is run by the Durant Family and I had the pleasure to talk to Sheila in the Pro Shop who was great for giving me direction on a few holes (which really helps when you've never played a course before). I'm not going to do a full review until I play the whole 18 but I will tell you if you play there the greens are in great condition and they definitely have nice ridges that are sometimes hard to read. Also playing #18 a long par 3 from the whites (206 yds.) I did something I've never done before, I played a driver on a par 3. Although I did choke down on it and give it a half swing was real fun to play. Only managed a bogey as I was pin high maybe a foot off the green but couldn't get up and down. I am only a hacker oh! well.


Fun #18 A long par 3

Tricking Green on #16


























Sheila wanted me to pass along an upcoming tournament NationView is running here's the scoop:

9th Annual Golf For A Cure
Saturday July 17, 2010
18 Hole Golf & Dinner Fundraiser in Memory of Tom Nagy
Golf & Roast Beef Dinner - $65 per person
Roast Beef Dinner only- $25 per person
For more info or to register by phone call (613)989-5633
Registration Deadline is July 7th, 2010 (Open to the first 144 registered golfers)
Shot Gun Start at Noon
4 Person Scramble
All proceeds to benefit the Canadian Cancer Society in memory of Tom Nagy.

Jun 16, 2010

"It's a fashion show out there!" - Nike US Open Scripting Video

Apparently according to the always candid Stephen Ames, "It's a fashion show out there!". Who knew golfers were so vain? Do they really care what they wear. Check out this video and you'll see the answers.

Are Tiger Woods, David Duval, Paul Casey, Trevor Immelman, Stewart Cink, Lucas Glover, Stephen Ames, Carl Pettersson, and Justin Leonard all fashionistas!


Jun 15, 2010

US Open Golf Pools - BirthGolfDeath, Kevin Haime, Team 1200, Real GolfWEST

Who doesn't like a good U.S. Open Golf Pool. Make your picks and see how you stack up against all the other golf crazed poolies. Scanning Twitter hears some you might want to check out.  Click on the image to get more info and to enter. Good Luck!  







Jun 14, 2010

US Open Contests - Kikkor, THP, LeaderBoard Golf

Scanning the pages of Twitter, here's the latest US Open Contest going on for this weeks second Major because who doesn't like to win new golf gear. Click on image for info and to enter.


@Kikkorgolf
These guys make great shoes remember my Kikkor shoe review.


 


@hackersparadise
These guys always great for contests have two going on for U.S. Open week be sure to enter 







@USTMamiya
Check out the shafts/clubs you can win 






@GorillaGolfBlog


Ryan Moore My U.S. Open Dark Horse Pick

I like Ryan Moore's chances this week at the U.S. Open. He's a West Coast lad and should be rested as he hasn't played since the Memorial where he had a T5. I like a guy that takes the week off before a Major(Although he has been busy keep reading). He's also had a very consistent season with 10 of 13 cuts made with 3 of those top 10s. I also like the fact he had a good Masters (T14) as well.

You also can't knock a record setting 61 on the weekend at Tacoma CC where Moore a native of Puyallup Washington has been playing some golf on the Wet Coast. Earlier in the week he was doing some publicity for the upcoming U.S. Amateur being held at the Chambers Bay Golf Course. Chambers Bay will also be the site of the 2015 U.S. Open. Wouldn't he love to win on the West Coast especially in Washington.

Be sure to check out Todd Milles blog the Green Scene. If your a fan of Ryan he's always got the latest including the details of Ryan's Chambers Bay visit.


Love the picture Todd Milles took of Ryan at Chambers Bay. Note the Scratch Golf hat.



Check out Ryan's scorecard and a couple of photos from Ryan Moore's 61 at Tacoma CC at True Linkswear Facebook page.



Note the True Linkswear logo on Ryan's shirt.


























If you want more about Ryan Moore head on over to Chapeau Noir Golf where Mike once again has a great article up showcasing Ryan and his new sponsor True Linkswear. Can't wait for the release of their new ‘soft-spike hybrid’ shoes later this year.  True shoes will be lighter than normal golf shoes and also make an individual feel closer to ground. Innovative and different just like Ryan Moore.

Jun 9, 2010

Sligo Wear Exudes Cool - Sligo Apparel Reviews

If you happen to be watching this weeks coverage of the St. Jude Classic down in Memphis, Tennessee you'll notice the defending Champion Brian Gay quite easily he's the guy who drives the ball straight, hits lots of greens and putts like a bandit. Gay currently ranks first in driving accuracy on Tour (73.56 percent) and is fifth in putting (1.722 putts per hole). You'll also notice him because he exudes cool wearing his Sligo Wear apparel and his trademark black shades.















I love the fact a guy from Fort Worth, Texas who went to school at University of Florida (Two-time All-American) is sponsored by a good ole Canadian Apparel Company. I've never owned any Sligo Wear and have just followed their innovative styles and aggressive colors from afar. No longer, I was given the opportunity to try out and review some of their apparel. So could clothes that a 3 time PGA Tour Winner wear help improve a hackers game, I can only hope some of Brian Gay's magic will rub off on me. So here's my take.

O'Brien, Scriver and Gator Golf Shirts







Sligo Golf Shirt Scriver McKenna Review - Spring 2010

An incredibly soft golf shirt it's 100% polyester but feels almost like a silk blend shirt. Extremely lightweight and was great for keeping me dry even during the hottest days. Really like the graphic that goes across the chest. Really contrasted well with the color of the shirt. Sligo logo a nice subtle touch on the left side of the shirt.

The Scriver shirt I got to review was the McKenna color but they also come in Ice, Crimson, White and Slate in sizes small to XXL.

Scriver In Action





























Details
100% Technical Polyester Jersey, Wicking, UV Protectant, Anti-Microbial, 4 way Mechanical stretch.

Sligo Golf Shirt O'Brien White Review - Spring 2010  
The O'Brien shirt is a very soft polyester golf shirt similar to the Scriver. The fabric is very lightweight and when your wearing the golf shirt it never sticks to you or impedes your swing .

The diamond graphics on the front carry over to the back left shoulder of the shirt. The color of the diamonds go great with the main color of white for this shirt. A very conservative looking shirt that goes with a variety of colors. Really like the Sligo logo on the back neck a nice accent.

The O'Brien shirt I got to review color was White but they also come in Ice, McKenna, Black  and Platinum in sizes small to XXL. Priced at $72 CDN.

O'Brien In Action
























Details
100% Technical Polyester Jersey, Wicking, UV Protectant, Anti-Microbial, 4 way Mechanical stretch.


Sligo Golf Shirt Gator White Review - Spring 
My favorite of the three golf shirts. When I first wore it, it reminded me of my old faithful basketball jersey but this golf shirt is way different. It is extremely lightweight the fabric is almost see thru but still feels very strong. I always worry about white golf shirts and keeping them clean but this shirt washed great. I just sprayed it with some stain remover and it washed out nicely. I also worried about the heat transfer print and how that would wash but had no problems there as well. Really like the graphic on this polo, it runs from front to back. Colors were great as well and it was easy to match up with some of my other golf attire.

The Gator shirt I got to review was white but they also come in Platinum, McKenna and Black in sizes small to XXL. Priced at $78 CDN a real steal for the quality of shirt.

Gator Has Some Bite

























Details
100% Technical Polyester Pique.
Enhanced wicking, UV protection, Anti-Microbial, 4 way mechanical stretch.




Sligo Vibe Belts-White w/ Matte Nickel Buckle Review
Oh! I do like white belts. I never had one up until a few years ago but now my wife thinks I'm the second coming of Herb Tarlek with the collection I have accumulated. So here's my take on the the Sligo Vibe Belt. Very nice soft leather just make sure you get the right size for your waist (Order 1 size larger than pants/shorts) because the leather is soft and it might crease. The buckle is matte nickel and isn't to heavy so it won't weight down your pants/shorts. Not to much bling just enough from Sligo which is all you need when it comes to a white belt. Very reasonably priced at $75 CDN.










Sligo Track Jacket White Review - Spring 2010
Golf Track jackets seem to be the new thing for Apparel companies to release and from the ones I've tried Sligo's offering definitely stands up to test. I used it extensively on the range and it kept me nice and warm. Fit me great considering I'm taller and have longer arms had ample room to swing the club. Again being a white track jacket I was worried about stains but the Poly/Cotton kit fabric was easy to clean a little stain remover and a wash and it was white again. The stripe graphic is a nice touch across the chest, chrome velvet no less.  I not only wore this on the golf course but for everyday life, so I also like it's versatility
































The Sligo Golf Track Jacket I got to review was white but it also comes in black in sizes small to XXL. Priced at $95 CDN which is the going rate for golf track jackets these days so very reasonable.

BTW - The Sligo Wear hasn't made me a better golfer I just look better now!


Be sure to to check out Sligo Wear's website it has recently been redone. All the latest Catalogs as well as an online store to purchase your Sligo Wear.

Follow Sligo on Twitter @sligowear and on Facebook  and MySpace.

Quagmire Golf's Apparel Appears In Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11

Ok so how many of you rushed out to get Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 yesterday. I haven't as of yet but I know it's inevitable having just got a Nintendo Wii. Hopefully I can pry the controller away from my kids for a few moments. If you've played it yet you'll notice a little Canadian content in the form of Canadian Apparel Company Quagmire Golf. Check out the pictures below for a taste at what you can create for your golfer. Now another reason to get the game, I can't wait to outfit my golfer in the latest Quagmire gear. Nice score for Geoff and Bobby from Quagmire. Congrats.



Also check out this funny Hockey Meets Golf Video featuring Ian Poulter. I wonder if  Ian has ever played hockey before.



More information about the video: “Hockey Meets Golf with Ian Poulter” is part of the online video series “Team Sports Meets Golf,” which showcases Tiger Woods and other pro golfers from the US and Europe attempting shots in a variety of unexpected team sports environments like soccer, basketball, and hockey. The online video series highlight two key enhancements to this year’s Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 – the Ryder Cup and team golf. 

Jun 8, 2010

Spring Puma Apparel Review 2010

2010 Spring Puma Apparel Review

I've been lucky over the past few weeks at testing out the 2010 Puma Golf Spring apparel line including some Special Edition items. These are the actually styles that Puma Ambassador Rickie Fowler wears on the course. Puma's golf apparel has been marketed to be eye catching and stylish and Rickie Fowler is the man to introduce us to Puma's style. If you were watching the Memorial this past weekend or any of the tournaments he's been playing lately you would of seen Rickie wearing some of these exact items I'm reviewing. Here's my take, enjoy!




























Puma Golf Pants Crystal Blue - Spring 2010
For most rounds here in the Ottawa area I'm pretty much a short guy. It's very rare that I suit up in pants for a game of golf. So when I got the chance to test out some Puma Golf Pants I was intrigued as to how they would perform.


They are made with 98% Cotton, 2% Elastane (fancy name for stretchy elastic stuff) and although they are a more fitted golf pant they performed great from swinging the driver, to iron play and to chipping and putting.   The 34/34 fit perfect being a tall guy (6'5") I usually always worry about length.

There are 2 front pockets with an added zippered pocket on the right side. All pockets are pretty shallow which took at bit of getting use to. Having a 3-Tee side pocket made up for the shallow pockets as this a great feature I really liked. No more fishing around your pockets for a tee, they're right there on your right side. The Puma 18 hole graphic print is on the back of the pants and also on the inside waist band and pockets all nice accents to the pants.

The color of pants I got to review came in crystal blue which took a bit of getting use to as well. The color definitely went with the shirts I got to review I just don't think it would be my number one choice of color for golf pants (Now shorts this color, definitively). They also come in black, white and dark gray.























Conclusion
As far as golf pants goes these really fit great and performed quite well out on the course. I really liked the 3-Tee side pocket and the styling of the pants. I just can't see me wearing them that often being a short guy. They go great with many of the golf polos has out in their 2010 Spring Line so read on down for further reviews. They retail at $80 USD and is very reasonable for golf pants of similar quality.

Puma Special Edition Polo White Review

Highlights
You'll immediately recognize this Special Edition polos from the contrasting colors on the arm sleeves, hem, logo and collar. Something that Puma does regularly and pulls it off nicely on this polo.   Puma 18 hole logo is always standard on it's apparel an sets up nicely on this shirt on the back shoulder and the underside of the collar.


























This Special Edition Polo is definitely different when it come to feel. Even though it's 100% Polyester fabric it has a much softer feel than any polyester golf shirt I've ever worn. It feels like it's already been broken in (washed a few times) and it still retains it's wicking capabilities. Why you ask is this important well when you get those hot and humid temperatures you want your golf shirt to wick away the sweat from your body and then dry to keep you comfortable. No one wants to golf in a wet shirt. This SE Golf Polo shirt performed beautifully during our recent hot stretch here in Ottawa. Kept me real cool even after 18 holes.

Retails for about $80 USD.

Invisibonding Graphic Golf Polo Shirt Review

Last year I got to do a review of Puma's Invisibonding Golf Polo shirt and it became one of my favorites. So what about this years version?

Features
  • Jersey material with a wicking finish to keep you cool and dry
  • Elastane stretch for a comfortable fit
  • 18-hole graphic pigment print for PUMA style





















    Highlights
    A great wicking finish this shirt will never stick to you even in the heat of a summer round. InvisiBonding means no stitches anywhere, fabric is fused together giving you added comfort during your golf game. 

    Nice accents again this year with the Puma logo on front left chest, a larger 18 hole logo on the front of the polo as well as one on the back of the polo.

    Once again one of the most lightweight, comfortable and extremely durable golf polos I've ever worn.

    Retail for about $70 USD and come in two colors White/Multi and White/Poinsettia. Who would of though I'd like a polo that's color is Poinsettia.

    Jun 7, 2010

    Rose Wins Memorial With Scary Good Ghost Putter

    Ok I'll be the first to admit I was cheering for Rickie Fowler to win his first PGA Tour Event at the Memorial on Sunday. That Justin Rose won with a lovely 66 final round and his first PGA Tour victory I give him full credit. He was steady all day especially with his putter. I tip my hat to Rose a win along time coming. Here's some highlights from his round including a few sweet putts with his new Taylormade Corza Ghost putter and a handshake from Jack.



    Press Release

    Wins Memorial Tournament Playing Burner SuperFast driver, R9 fairways, R9 irons, TP xFT wedge, Corza Ghost putter, Penta TP ball


    TaylorMade-adidas Golf Tour Staff professional Justin Rose, a multiple winner on the European Tour, earned his breakthrough victory on the PGA Tour yesterday by capturing one of the most prestigious events on the schedule, The Memorial Tournament.


    The victory was the first for TaylorMade's new Corza Ghost putter. Rose used it to rank No. 1 in putts per green-in-regulation (1.585) and No. 2 in putts per round (27).


    Rose's win marked the second time in three weeks the Burner SuperFast driver was used to win a PGA Tour event; the other victory was Jason Day two weeks ago at the HP Byron Nelson Classic. Rose was an early convert to the Burner SuperFast, switching to it because it delivered a significant boost in ball speed and distance.


    Rose also played a TP wedge with xFT (54°) and Penta TP, the first and only five-layer tour ball.


    Quotes:
    "It's a bit of a pun, but I putted scary good with my new Ghost putter. I couldn't resist that one."




    "I've got to be honest, putting is one part of my game where, you know, I've had some slight doubts. Today [Sunday] was fantastic because I felt like I putted my best under pressure. You know, once again, that's something that I can really take or now dispatch out of my mind and really take positives going forward."


    "I was really trying to play one shot at a time, stay focused, not get ahead of myself…I knew that I was in the hunt all week, but I wasn't playing golf like I was in the hunt all week. I was just in the moment."




    "The last tournament I won was the 2007 Volvo Masters, and I didn't win it in a fashion that I was actually terribly proud of. I was four or five ahead at one point and ended up winning in a playoff. You know, I won. It was great. But today gives me a lot more satisfaction to sort of win the way I did. I feel like I can take a lot more from this win going forward than my last one."


    *** All quotes from ASAP sports’ transcripts of Roses’ post-round press conferences at The Memorial Tournament.


    In the bag:


    Burner SuperFast 9.5° driver


    R9 3-wood 13°


    R9 4-wood 17°


    R9 irons 3 - 9


    TP wedge with xFT 54°


    Rossa Corza Ghost putter


    Penta TP ball, #99


    TaylorMade TP glove


    adidas Golf adiPURE™ footwear


    adidas Golf ClimaCool 3-Stripes polo in Black/White


    adidas Golf Formotion pants


    adidas Golf eyewear


    Notable:


    -Rose hit lots of fairways and greens, ranking T10 in driving accuracy and T13 in greens-in-regulation. Combine that with his 1 in putts per GIR and 2 in putts per round and you've got a winner.


    -Rose's Penta TP balls are each numbered 99 because 9 is his wife's favorite number, and his reasoning is that two 9s will bring him "double the luck."

    Jun 2, 2010

    80's Flashback - Cell Fusion Special Edition Golf Shoe Review

    When I first unboxed my Cell Fusion Special Edition Golf Shoes my mind raced back to the 80's a time when I actually had hair (a mullet no less) and when Miami Vice and the pastel craze were king. Puma's Special Edition Cell Fusion golf shoes would fit in nicely back then. I definitely could see Sonny Crockett wearing a pair of these with his trademark white linen pants.


    These golf shoes are clearly geared towards the younger crowd and why not with a young upstart golfer in Rickie Fowler as their spokesman, Puma clearly knows the direction they're going in. So would I, a 42 year old hacker, father of 3 be able to rock these pastel head turners. Read on!

    Features
    Last year I had the opportunity to review some Puma Tipper Golf Shoes and was thoroughly impressed with the technology used in the shoes to make them so lightweight yet so sturdy for all kinds of golfing conditions. This Special Edition Cell Fusion model doesn't disappoint. You notice right away from holding the SE model the Smart Quill technology. This year Puma takes it to another level with replaceable SmartQuill spikes with Fast Twist 2 directional locking technology for more grip. The Smart Quills combined with the iCell technology in the forefoot and heel of the shoe makes this not only more comfortable than the Tippers I reviewed but also give you better traction to the ground during your swing.

    Looks
    Puma doesn't pull any punches with its SE Cell Fusion model. The retro two-tone Puma stripe in yellow and green is eye catching to say the least. When I first wore them you should of heard the comments from my fashion conscience daughters as well from some of my playing partners. With the crystal blue base these are the slickest golf shoes Puma has released. It took some getting use to, the color combination but after awhile wearing with them with a Puma shirt and pants with similar color palettes I quickly got over it. From the pictures you'll also note the contrasting piping shoelaces. Puma gives you three extra sets of shoe laces to change it up whenever you like, a nice touch.

    Feel and Comfort
    After a few rounds, the SE Puma Cell Fusions proved to be a great lightweight, sturdy and comfortable golf shoe. I wore them straight out of the box no break in period here. My feet never seem to get tired or fatigued even in the heat we've been getting recently in the Ottawa area. The Smart Quill spikes provided great traction for all types of golf shots whether it was on the fairway, the bunker or the rough. The Cell Fusion's waterproof full-grain leather upper managed to keep me dry in some torrential rains recently and that can't be said for all golf shoes.

    Conclusion
    If you want a retro stylish looking golf shoe that Rickie Fowler wears, the SE Cell Fusion fits the bill. If you're a little more conservation the Cell Fusion's also comes in Black/White/Red and White/Snorkel Blue. Don't worry if you have a hard time matching them with rest of your golf wardrobe because Puma has some great SE apparel to go along with these shoes. Stay tuned for more reviews!

    After a bit of getting use to I even managed to pull off wearing these golf shoes. How can you not like golf shoes that are so lightweight and comfortable and actually help your golf game. Better traction and stability awaits you with the Cell Fusion Special Edition Golf Shoes . SE Cell Fusion shoes can be bought online at the Puma Store. Retail value $180.00 USD. Trendy Golf also sells them as well as Fairway Styles.

    Be sure to follow Puma Golf on Twitter @PUMAGolf and Facebook at Puma Golf.

    2010 Canadian Open Field Coming Together

    Once again this year I'll be heading down to the Toronto area for the Canadian Open. This year it is being played at St. George's Golf & Country Club in Etobicoke which I'm very excited about plus the field is starting to take shape with some early committals by some top players. Here's a few excerpts from Golf Canada regarding the field:

    Among the rising stars set to challenge for Canada’s national Open championship include three-time PGA TOUR winners Sean O’Hair, Anthony Kim and Camilo Villegas; two-time PGA TOUR winners Hunter Mahan, Luke Donald, Y.E. Yang and Matt Kuchar; world no. 8 ranked Paul Casey; and rookie sensation Ricky Fowler, as well as defending RBC Canadian Open champion Nathan Green.  

    The field for the 101st playing of Canada’s National Open Championship will also welcome several proven PGA TOUR veterans including seven-time PGA TOUR winner Retief Goosen; 2010 THE PLAYERS Championship winner Tim Clark and Fred Couples, a 15-time PGA TOUR winner with three 2010 victories on the Champions Tour.
    Hopefully Couples back holds up for this years tournament. Looking forward to seeing Rickie Fowler up close as well as Casey and Clark. Should be a great tournament.

    Jun 1, 2010

    Zach Johnson Loves His SeeMore Putter & So Does Ottawa Golf - Si1 Putter Review

    SeeMore Si1 Putter Review

    Interesting how my SeeMore Si1 putter review is coinciding with Zach Johnson's awesome putting display on Sunday and win at the 2010 Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial. I've used SeeMore's new Si1 putter since the beginning of the season here in the Ottawa area and by far it's been the most consistent club in my bag. Very much like Zach Johnson's putting over the weekend I've made a lot of putts with this putter and it has instilled at least a lot of confidence in my putting game. I'm not saying I'm the second coming of Zach Johnson but for a 24 handicap golfer when I line up a putt I feel I'm going to make it or at least get it close for a tap in. I like this feeling, hey driver are you listening?

    Zach Johnson Making Some Putts Final Round 2010 Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial


     SeeMore Si1 Putter Review

    I had the pleasure last year to review one of SeeMore's putters, the FGP stainless steel blade putter and found it great for short putts but I really had a hard time judging speed/distance with longer putts. This year the Si1 has been a pleasant surprise so here's more on my review on this new putter offered by SeeMore Putters.





    The chosen one
    Ted Gallina at SeeMore was great as far as ordering to what specs I wanted and any questions I had. Here's the specs on the Si1 putter I've been reviewing since the start of the season:

    Si1 Putter Specs
    Loft- 3.5 degrees
    Lie angle- 72 degrees(upright)
    Length- 35"

    Material: 303 Stainless
    Construction: Cast/Remilled
    Finish: Nickel Plated
    Shaft Location: Center
    Head weight: 330g


    The Scoop from SeeMore's website about the Si1:
    The new SiSeries combines the proprietary and proven alignment benefits of SeeMore RifleScope Technology (RST) in a new line of putters featuring thermoplastic face inserts for a softer feel and a slightly lower rebound characteristic preferred by some players. Si1 is a modern deep flange blade design with center shaft, near face balanced, and is only available at this time with straight shaft. The Si1 features 5% toe hang, near face balanced.
    SeeMore RifleScope Technology (RST)
    If you've never used a SeeMore putter they all have what's called SeeMore RifleScope Technology (RST). Line up your putter making sure you can't see the red dot and stroke the ball. It's pretty easy to tell if you are aligned properly or not. I love it, I pick my line make sure the red dot is hidden and stroke the ball. Being a high handicap golfer I love being able to know I'm at least lined up square to my target.



    The finish
    I've always been more prone to play putters with dark finishes and again SeeMore's nickel plated Si1 is a winner in my eyes. It frames the ball nice has very little glare and I've had no problems with the integrity of the finish. Nice and durable.

    The insert
    I've never used a putter with a insert so I was really interested in trying a putter with one. I've heard many people sing the praises of the inserts in their putters. Especially when it comes to softness and feel. The Si1 did not disappoint. I definitely felt the thermoplastic face insert that SeeMore has in the Si1 made the contact with the ball very smooth regardless of the type of ball (distance ball, low compression etc). A nice cushioning feel. Is it the main selling point of this putter. No for sure it's the whole package.

    The head cover
    The head cover with the Si1 is a nice black leather head cover with a Velcro closure and SeeMore stitched on the top. Pretty standard head cover, I definitely like it better than the sock head cover from last years FGP models. Has held up great over the beginning of the season.

    The grip
    The standard grip for the Si1 is the Winn AVS Red & Black Grip. A great all around grip that in both wet and dry conditions I've had no problems with. No wear issues either. No reason to change it here.

    Conclusion
    For me the two things that stand out for SeeMore putters is the fact they are great with customizing their putters. For anyone who hasn't ordered from Seemore, Ted is great to deal with, their customer service is second to none. Everything is fully customizable when it comes to their putters. Head weight, lie, length, and even custom engraving can be done to your liking.

    Having my Si1 customized for my stroke was great the big one customization feature I think helped me the most was having the lie angle adjusted to being more upright (72 degrees) which seemed to help with my stroke and instill confidence in any length of putt.

    Secondly the RST technology helps a high handicap golfer like myself insure I'm square to my target which is such a big part in making more putts.

    The Si1 can be bought through SeeMore's online store at a suggested retail price of $165 USD. I suggest contacting someone at SeeMore if you have any questions regarding a putter that would fit your stroke. Here in Canada they also be purchased at your local Golf Town.

    You can follow all things SeeMore on Twitter @SeeMorePutters
    and on Facebook at the SeeMore Players Club