ORLANDO, Fla. – The 73rd PGA Show provided a powerful punch, with more than 34,000 industry professionals gathering in Orlando from 90 countries and all 50 U.S. states. This year’s event reached its largest size since 2009, marking continued momentum after the Covid-19 pandemic.
The growth is a worthy indicator of a healthy industry that continues to innovate and invest in its long-term success, it was great to see the buzz fully back at the show. Each year we seek out the obvious brands, as well as the obscure start-ups to see what’s new for your game. It should be no surprise that we went heavy on footwear in this treasure hunt of the Orange County Convention Center, and we must admit we weren’t disappointed. The shoe designers absolutely crushed it.
Let’s show you some of the new gear that caught our eye (we provided the item price where it was available).
Golf Balls
Titleist
Titleist ProV1x Left Dash, once a limited edition cult favorite, now part of the stable of the industry leading Pro V1 retail line. Left Dash has been considered a ball only for the fastest swingers, but recent tests have shown that it has an application also for those who prefer a firm feeling, and due to its unique dimple pattern, Pro V1x Left Dash has a higher flight than Pro V1. A smart-spin casing layer with added thickness produces lower long game spin than Pro V1. In other words, higher launch/lower spin off the driver, but still plenty of shot stopping spin with the scoring clubs.
MSRP $55 per dozen
Bridgestone
Bridgestone golf ball engineers focused on innovating more speed into their 2026 B models – RX, RXS, XS, and X ball. The mantle is where Bridgestone’s engineers focused on finding that additional speed. The key was finding a new additive, that they call “VeloSurge” to the mantle formulation that allows the cover and mantle to work together to produce more ball speed than past Bridgestone models. According to reports, Jason Day has picked up nearly 9 yards of carry distance with his new B – X model ball. Available 1/30 – $55 per dozen.
Zero Friction
Chicago’s Zero Friction, known for their performance tees and OSFA gloves, introduces their first urethane three-piece golf ball – a retail performance ball to rival the price point and performance of Cosco’s popular Kirkland Signature ball. Available this spring MSRP $34.95. Look for our test/review coming soon.
Footwear
Adidas
In 2026, Adidas is focusing on the mid-tier $100-$150 price point, reintroducing Adi-Power, a sporty model that was originally introduced in 2015. The new edition features what’s called Repetitor Foam in the midsole and an aggressive infinity traction outsole for fast swingers of the club. Spiked and spikeless models available. MSRP $130 (BOA version $150)
Adidas MC 70 is a blend of classic style and modern performance. Inspired by the brand’s 1970s designs, but with a present day edge. MC70 combine a leather and synthetic upper for durability and comfort. Available in both cleated and spikeless, the outsole provides exceptional traction. Integrated BOOST in the heel pad delivers responsive energy return for every step. Waterproof construction ensures dry, confident play in all conditions, while torsion support enhances midfoot stability. MSRP $150
Payntr
Payntr did not have a booth on the show floor, but they did have a launch event at TopGolf where we were introduced to the all-new Reserve Classic Tour, part of the Speed Reserve Series. The RCT is packed with everything you could want in a premium cleated tour offering.
A stunning classic style silhouette launched in coordination with the signing of the fast swinging Aussie – Min Woo Lee and U.S. Ryder Cupper Sam Burns. The Classic is already in house ready to be field tested for our annual Best Links Footwear review. $180
I had to share these new “RAINSHEDDER” all-weather kicks that sold out immediately after being offered. These are a collaboration with Forresters. Featuring Clarino® premium microfiber upper, delivering 20% less weight than traditional materials while providing exceptional waterproofing, superior durability, and effortless maintenance. Check out the fully integrated knit bootie with a zippered shroud ensures a secure, adaptive fit and offers unrivaled waterproof defense in all playing conditions. $220
Footjoy
The 10 year anniversary of PRO SL brings with it an entirely new form. The ’26 edition features a Z-Tech synthetic upper (that’s 29% lighter than the previous leather upper) for better structure and support, and also more durable. The all-new ARCTrax Outsole Technology Provides Tour-Rated Traction – the outer tread is a firmer TPU, for stability during the swing, and the inner tread is a more forgiving for walking comfort. Validation coming from from Sahith Theegala, who is presently wearing PRO SL on tour and at TGL. $185
PREMIERE SERIES
Over 40% of the PGA Tour wears Premiere Series, and in 2026 the model continues to evolve with small refinements. FJ updated a couple of performance based items – weight and traction. The midsole is 10% lighter, and the outsole provides up to a 30% boost in traction with the new ARCTrax technology. One small additional item that may go a long way to making your walk a bit more enjoyable, they enhanced top-of-foot comfort by providing padding on the bottom side of the tongue flap – genius. $225
Duca Del Cosma
If there’s an award for a footwear OEM that has improved its performance features the most over the past five years, that award easily goes to Duca Del Cosma. Known for their progressive Italian styles and high quality craftsmanship (the new upper designs of Davinci and Davanti are superb), the company has become a leader in the spikeless category by upping their midsole/outsole game, providing worthy energy return and comfort. Three different types of traction nubs provide fantastic turf gripping traction. $249
Alma Mater
Alma mater in Latin means nurturing mother. In golf it means – new golf footwear company. The genesis of said company, is a union of friends who are lifelong pros of the athletic shoe industry. From a boutique shop in Malibu, to the show floor in Orlando…. we’ll delve in more detail about their story when we include their new Beta Collection in this year’s Best Links Footwear feature. There’s some pretty cool innovation in the design and construction of their Nitrogen-Infused Supercritical Foam midsole, part of their 3Pe system. A proprietary foam offers topshelf comfort while delivering high energy return. Full-grain leather upper lined with calf-skin, and the knit upper Beta Lite (pictured above). MSRP $288
Puma
Puma was one of the brands that impressed us the most, and it’s been a minute since they have put out something that made us really take notice. The flagship of the line – Avant Tour was super impressive with premium full-grain Atlantis leather, brogue detailing and metallic cat badge for a sophisticated aesthetic. The micro detailing craftsmanship and innovation are all top shelf here. Solid value for a premium tour spiked shoe at $170, spikeless $150.
ECCO
ECCO and their new BIOM C5 Series look crazy comfortable and super edgy. All that you’d expect from the brand, top-tier leathers, quality craftsmanship, and comfort that inspires you to walk the course. Featuring Gore-Tex Surround Waterproofing for the toughest weather conditions.
Look for more on the C5 when our Best Links Footwear review is published this spring. $249
Skechers
Our visit to the Skechers this year was a brief but productive one, LPGA star Brooke Henderson was filming at the booth when we arrived, but we did manage to scout the new offerings. Everything we saw on display had all of the comfort and performance features you’ve come to expect from Skechers – Heel Pillow®, Slip-on, Arch Fit® insole, lightweight ECO FLIGHT™ cushioning, and responsive outsoles. Flow SI ($115) and Flow SI Twist Fit ($130), and PURE SI ($130)
The fully cleated BLADE Tour worn by Matthew Fitzpatrick ($165) features a waterproof design and Clarino™ upper. ($165)
Goatlane
Goatlane, crafted from premium materials, offering comfort, traction, and versatility – on and off the course. From leather classics to breathable mesh, each pair is built for effortless play and everyday wear,.created by founder Gustov Shauman. Goatlane’s style is inspired by Scandinavian design principles, according to the company – they strip away the unnecessary and focus on what truly matters: comfort, precision, and clean aesthetics. crafted from premium materials, offering comfort, traction, and versatility – on and off the course.
They offer some superb styling details, including these custom Miami Dolphins kicks made specially for team owner Stephen Ross. In the likeness of a classic tennis shoe, Goatlane’s niche is in the craftsmanship and detail. $245
Sun Day Red
The Osprey was designed for versatility, from the office to the course, and a casual dinner afterwards. Crafted with premium materials and subtle sophistication, the Osprey provides all-day comfort and the ability to perform whenever needed. Drop-in EVA midsole system providing excellent all-day comfort and responsive performance for any activity. A variable omni-directional pattern provides grip to any surface. This is Tiger’s go-to shoe for life’s off-course life moments. $160
Pioneer Willow
In the original two designs, Tiger wanted a shoe that features a sleek 6mm heel to toe drop, allowing the golfer to leverage the power of ground force, while not sacrificing support. The new Willow carries the same construction but with a more minimalist classic aesthetic. Premium full grain waterproof leather upper provides unmatched style and class. The power plant is constructed with a high-density TPU full ground contact plate equipped with a 9-cleat outsole configuration to deliver superb traction. Gotta admit the navy colorway had me at hello. Tiger’s tour shoe – $250
The Presidio is the brand’s first venture into the sport contemporary category, Torsional traction plates made of a firm durometer TPU provide the stability under the hood, while the rubber outsole provides the grip to the turf. A high-performance EVA midsole provides energy return, while creating a light overall weight. Coated TPU mesh upper provides a one-year waterproof warranty. Tiger wears these at TGL – available 2/17.
TRUE Linkswear
TRUE Linkswear introduced their new A N T I G R A V I T Y, a new performance platform focused on lighter feel, natural movement, and comfort that holds up through long days on your feet.
The outsole is a versatile tread pattern is engineered to provide dependable traction across fairways, gravel paths, asphalt, as well as indoor flooring. An authentic crossover performance shoe. An antimicrobial insert keeps things a bit more fresh on those 36 hole days.
Available Spring – $199
Technology
Blue Tees
There are 3 different demographics of golf consumer when it comes to launch monitors, base/economy tier – under $500. Mid-tier from $500 – $3000… and the elite tier which consists of anything over 3K (Foresight GC Quad & Trackman are in the five-figure range). At $599, Blue Tees launches the RAINMAKER (awesome name), a device that offers enough metrics to be considered Elite, with 12 separate data points from swing speed/ball speed, spin rate, attack angle, swing path, flight apex, and more. It’s pricepoint puts it in the most affordable end of the mid-tier space, going head-to-head with Garmin and Rapsodo.
Two things separate the Blue Tees device, it integrates seamlessly within their database system through their app, and perhaps most importantly for interested consumers of the RAINMAKER – No subscription. Take the device anywhere and get your #’s whether it’s testing clubs, grooving a new swing, or playing long drive on the range vs your buddies. AND… No added monthly cost! Available around around Father’s Day.
Next generation Laser Rangefinders do so much more than just provide distance measurements, so for the consumer who wants to know everything, Blue Tees created The Captain. The display and optics are next-level high-def crisp. The Captain provides data and assists in making proper club decisions. Look for more this spring when we give the Captain a proper on-course review. Available in March.
Shotscope
Shot Scope may have an instant hit with their first foray into the launch monitor market… and get this it’s only $200.
A big part of the buzz around the show was centered around this device, 1st round value leader in the clubhouse. The LM1is a fairly simple launch monitor giving you the essentials: clubhead speed, ball speed, smash factor, carry distance and total distance. Your typical recreational golfer doesn’t want or need to know any more than that.
It works indoors or outdoors. If the data proves to be accurate, this thing is going to fly off the shelves. And just like the Blue Tees device that we mentioned for mid-tier consumers, the base consumer won’t have to pay a subscription to use their LM1.
Can’t wait to put this bad boy to the test. Available in March.
Bushnell
Bushnell’s new TOUR V7 Shift is a laser that packs an informative punch – it has Bushnell’s Link technology built in, meaning it can pull your distances for every club in your bag and give you recommendations based on what you’ve told it (or on the info it has stored from being by your side). It also features a dual-color OLED display, and the optics are phenomenal. Other upgrades include a better Slope-adjusted display, Range Recall and LINK-Enabled features. Bushnell’s most popular laser rangefinder line took another step forward – $399
GENIUS Ball
GENIUS is the first of its kind, a regulation-size, regulation-weight smart golf ball that looks, feels and rolls like a premium, tour-quality golf ball. Its core contains a sophisticated sensor array that identifies the moment of impact, plus skid and roll of the ball, resulting in precise data that external devices cannot reliably detect.
Metrics like velocity, launch angle, side spin, skid distance, roll characteristics, deceleration pattern, consistency across strokes and green speed are captured and, using proprietary algorithms, processed and delivered via Bluetooth to the GENIUS app on the golfer’s smartphone.
The GENIUS ball battery life is in the neighborhood of 10,000 putts. When the ball nears its end-of-life cycle, the GENIUS system will automatically detect it as long as a user’s subscription is active and ship a free replacement. 3 GENIUS balls, a carrying case and annual app subscription is $240.
VBX Wellness
Each year at the PGA Show, there’s usually one device that we see that is related to health and recovery. This year we encountered the VBX booth and the Whole Body Vibration (WBV) platform, that offers a myriad of proven benefits. According to the company, WBV boosts energy, mood, sleep, and libido, all while increasing muscle strength, bone density, balance, and flexibility. It helps you lose weight and aids in the process of maintaining results. WBV offers dramatic physical therapy for many joint and mobility issues.
A well-documented therapy WBV was developed by Swedish inventor Gustav Zander in the late 1800s, with the aim of improving health and well-being. Hundreds of studies from the medical profession to Nasa have proven the value of doing WBV on a regular basis. Today, vibration plates are used by NASA astronauts and most professional sports teams. Many athletes, celebrities, and health & wellness advocates have them in their homes to get (and stay) trim and feel great.
A recent systematic review of eighteen research articles about using WBV with obese patients has shown increased metabolism, weight and fat loss, along with other improvements in other health issues known to be related to obesity – such as heart health, peripheral and central circulation, glucose regulation, and inflammation levels. WBV is a huge plus in any weight-loss program. We stood on the Vibration Plate for 8 minutes, and can vouch for the joint and back relief it gave me.
If you have chronic aches and pains (like I do), it’s worth checking out…
Clubs/Equipment
PING
PING’s new G440 K Driver is the next evolution of last year’s G440 line, created to be their straightest and most forgiving model while delivering faster ball speeds and CG-shifting adjustability for more distance. A lower and deeper CG position is achieved through weight savings from its carbon crown and sole, delivering ball-speed gains and the record-setting MOI that leads to longer and straighter results. PING Club Engineer Travis Milleman said, “the “K” offers even more forgiveness while adding a few mph of ball speed, and the same muted thwack that made last year’s G440 so popular.” I’m still gaming the G440 Max, look forward to seeing if we can squeeze a few more yards, and fairways out of the “K”. Stay tuned. $649
The new i540 irons feature an “air bag” inside the clubhead directly behind the center of the face that enhances sound and feel without restricting face bend. An average of 24 grams of tungsten weighting is used in the 4- through 7-irons along the sole to lower the center of gravity for a higher launch angle.
The maraging-steel face is 9 percent thinner than the i530. This creates metal-wood-like flex for ball-speed gains and more height. A beam inside the clubhead adds structural support and assists sound and feel. Super strong lofts, 7-iron: 29 degrees; PW: 42 degrees. Available March 2026.
Cameron Putters
According to Scotty Cameron’s Senior Director of Putter R&D – Austie Rollinson, the new Phantom Series features a Nnw Full-Face Carbon Steel Insert. Re-engineered specifically for Phantom, a new full-face Studio Carbon Steel (SCS) insert with a distinctive chain-link milling pattern provides softer sound and feel with sharper distance control.
The new line features more head & neck configurations, providing more fitting options across different stroke types, including low-torque setups designed to promote more stable face control.
The 2026 Phantom introduces new and refined head shapes, featuring deeper faces with a rounded topline for a softer look and improved ball positioning. Complete with redesigned sole plates that allow soles to sit more flush to the ground. MSRP – starting at $499
PXG
PXG made its debut at the PGA Show with a strong presentation that included hitting bays, and detailed displays of their club line’s construction. The new 2026 PXG wedge lineup – Sugar Daddy III featuring 3X forged 8620 soft carbon steel and 100% CNC milling for enhanced feel and tighter grain structure. These wedges are designed for elite spin, featuring deeper, wider grooves and specialized sole options (BP, S, and C-Grinds) to optimize turf interaction and versatility.
PXG’s Lightning Drivers – Four distinct head designs to ensure every golfer experiences optimized launch, feel, and forgiveness tailored to their game. Engineered to be custom fit, every detail of the PXG Lightning Driver family was designed for measurable speed gains, maximum forgiveness and incredible sound and feel. Fine-Tune Your Trajectory: PXG Lightning Drivers feature a refined multi-port weight system for precise CG manipulation and shot bias tuning. By redistributing up to 20 grams of mass across heel, toe, and rear positions, fitters can optimize launch, spin, and direction – no tradeoffs. $649
COBRA
Cobra’s new OPTM drivers utilize strategic shaping and weight placement to reduce Products of Inertia (POI), the measure of a club’s resistance to twisting across three axes. Resulting in significantly reduced side spin, tighter dispersion, increased accuracy, and more fairways hit. The X is the core model that will fit the largest demographic of players. LS, Max K, Max D round out the line. $599
Cobra’s new 3DP irons are an innovation marvel. The line includes 3 models, MB, X and Tour. Each clubhead is 3D printed using 2600 layers of 316 stainless steel powder that are fused together using powerful lasers. Leveraging advanced club design software adapted for 3D printing, this groundbreaking process allowed the engineers complete design freedom to create the best combination of shaping, feel, and forgiveness that can’t be achieved in cast or forged irons. 4-PW or 5-GW $1979
Outerwear/Accessories
Footjoy
There are dozens of brands on the show floor showing off their outerwear, but FootJoy’s 2026 line impressed in a big way. In fact, we’ll take one of everything in their new ThermoSeries line, which includes a plethora of layering pieces created to work in harmony with each other – from the various layering garments that include the Hydro & Hybrid Mid-Layers, and the new Crossover and Hybrid hoodies (absolute must-haves).
The flagship in rain wear remains DryJoys Select LX , featuring 3 layer waterproof fabric. Imagine your next journey to Bandon, Ireland or Scotland in gear that won’t compromise the experience. The Select LX jacket combines advanced waterproof technology with exceptional breathability, keeping you dry and comfortable in any conditions. Designed specifically for on course performance, the design and construction allows for a full range of motion, providing stretch where you need it. $650
Sunice
The other outer wear brand that had our attention was Sunice.
Allendale 2.0 Element Shield Water-Repellent Quarter-Zip Pullover features SuperliteFX technology that offers lightweight stretch comfort while keeping your body at the ideal temperature. With a RepelTX™ coating for water-repellency and wind protection, and ProTX2™ that provides anti-microbial and anti-odor properties, you’ll feel your best in all conditions. UV 50+ protection. Laser-cut welding at chest pocket. Contrast stitching gives a modern flair. $150
The 2026 PGA Championship Collection is the Element Shield Thermal Hybrid Jacket (navy). It’s a sharp piece that performs like a thermal jacket, but allows you to move as if you were wearing a light base layer. Climaloft quilted insulation at front and back is incredibly light and thin yet surprisingly warm, even in wet conditions. The stretch side panels allow for full freedom of movement. Full-zip front with chin guard. Zippered pockets. $190
Eros Zephal Max rain jacket. Innovative fabric combines with performance features to guarantee you’ll keep moving despite the rain. The two-layer construction is designed with waterproofing to keep you dry for up to 6 hours of moderate to steady rain, with built-in four-way stretch that moves with you in any weather. A bottom hem and Pro Trim Waist cinching system helps keep warmth in and moisture out. Full zip-front design has waterproof zippers, a welded chin guard, an inside wind flap and an in-pocket ball cleaner. Lycra cuffs stay secure during activity. 3-year waterproof guarantee. $350
Red Rooster
Kerry Mohler and Brad Fritsch own and operate the Red Rooster Golf Company, along with their fantastic cabretta leather gloves(custom branding for your company is now available). The brand recently unveiled the Simster – they beta tested 7 different microfiber blends before settling on the perfect mix of feel and durability in creating the Simster … created it for 1-2 hour indoor golf simulator sessions… but I have found it to be the ideal glove for humid weather conditions on the golf course. The Simster is mega durable, having now lasted through hundreds of practice sessions – both on natural grass ranges and off of various synthetic turf practice areas. Now I save those premium leather gloves for days when the temps are moderate, and the humidity is low. $27
Zero Friction
Zero Friction has challenged the status quo in the golf glove market by creating a quality compression-fit – product. The New Men’s Victory Tour Gloves are made with proprietary lambskin and a sleek design providing a comfortable, durable glove available in Universal Fit (small – XL) and 9 fresh color combinations. $19.99
