Callaway

What it does: When you hear that the carbon composite used in the sole of these new fairway woods is 50 percent lighter than steel, you might think, Cool, but isn’t it better to keep heavy weight low in a fairway wood so that shots launch higher? It is, but you want to concentrate that weight where it will be most effective. In this case, a tungsten cartridge is placed in the front of the sole to position the centre of gravity in line with the centre of the face. These woods have adjustability across 14 models and three head shapes. If you can’t find the right fit, perhaps it’s time to look at the new bowling balls.

Why we like it: Whether it’s the shallow-faced, easy-launching Paradym, the oversize, draw-biased X or the low-spinning, compact ♦♦♦ for elite players, the story starts with the face technology. An internal structure around the perimeter concentrates more flexing in the hitting area. Artificial-intelligence computer modelling was used to weave complex thicknesses across the face to optimise performance for each of the three models and every individual loft. Callaway made it a priority this year to improve low-face impacts for improved consistency regardless of where you make contact.

Lofts 15, 16.5, 18, 21, 24, 27 (Paradym); 15, 16.5, 18, 21 (x); 13.5, 15, 18 (♦♦♦)