Technology is ubiquitous, and nowhere was that more evident than the 2018 PGA Merchandise Show. Golf gloves that give feedback to improve lag? Check. Putters with sensors? Got those too. Laser range finders that incorporate GPS? No problem. Big bold simulators that allow you to play courses from all over the world? Those are everywhere.
From helping you find your way around the course to assisting in improving your swing, golf tech was everywhere at the PGA Show in Orlando. We caught up with the Shark himself, Greg Norman, to talk about the evolution of technology in the game.
We took to the floor of the sprawling show to check out some of the coolest tech on display.
Bushnell Hybrid
Introducing #bushnellhybrid Worlds first integrated laser/gps combo. #pgashow2018 #demoday pic.twitter.com/LJzoJ3yeU6
— Paul McLean (@pmacccc) January 23, 2018
Can’t determine if you’re a laser or GPS fan when it comes to finding the right yardage? Bushnell’s combo unit that incorporates both elements into one hand-held unit, it includes a screen that provides GPS yardage, but still allows you to shoot hazards and other key areas of the course.
OnCore’s Genius Ball
A product that has a buzz around the show, OnCore’s Genius Ball will include GPS technology in the ball, allowing users to track spin, speed off the tees, distance and other factors. This tour-level ball with a urethane cover doesn’t have pricing yet, but could be a breakthrough when it comes to market.
TaylorMade Spider Interactive, with Blast Motion
Big data has come to golf in a significant way. A couple of years ago TaylorMade connected with Microsoft to create MyRoundPro, and now the company is bringing tech to its Spider putters. Bill Price, TaylorMade’s vice-president for putters and wedges, told Golf Town that putting tech into a putter gives golfers the insights they need to improve their stroke on the greens.
Flightscope Mevo
Start the season with a bit of practice with the new tools…👌🏻 @FlightScopeMevo @VisioPutting @TitleistEurope Looking forward to the Season… pic.twitter.com/HkgVb5hu3q
— Darren Crabb (@Dasnav) January 26, 2018
Flightscope is known for its product used by touring pros and golf coaches, and the company has extended that reach to include a personal launch monitor that can be used not only in golf, but in baseball and soccer as well. So it works perfectly well whether you’re tracking a drive, or a fastball.
Load and Lag Golf Glove
Next up on Shop Clock: Load and Lag Golf Glove. Is this something you would use? #PGAShow pic.twitter.com/7cDQ0mDlWp
— GOLF.com (@GOLF_com) January 24, 2018
Designer Jack Perkins created this golf glove, which helps players increase club speed and improve sequencing through a patented magnetometer technology. The glove gives audio feedback, allowing players to use it while practicing or hitting shots. Simple and smart.