Worldwide Golf Shops Insider Podcast

In this episode of the Worldwide Golf Insider Podcast, host Tom Brassell welcomed back a familiar voice in the industry—Bob Thurman, Global VP of R&D and General Manager of Golf at Wilson Sporting Goods. What followed was a compelling conversation that blended nostalgia, innovation, and a clear vision for the future of one of golf’s most storied brands.

A Legacy Brand with a Modern Vision

Wilson Golf is a name that resonates with generations of golfers. From classic Dynapower irons to the legendary Staff blades, the brand has long been associated with championship pedigree. In fact, Wilson still holds the distinction of having more major championship wins with its irons than any other manufacturer. But as Thurman candidly acknowledged, the company faced challenges in the past. Today, however, Wilson is in the midst of a powerful resurgence.

Over the last decade, Wilson Sporting Goods has undergone a significant transformation—expanding its footprint, strengthening its brand portfolio, and reinvesting heavily in innovation. Thurman himself has played a key role in that evolution, bringing an engineering mindset and performance-first philosophy to the golf division.

“We’re about making products that help players hit it farther, straighter, and ultimately make more birdies,” Thurman emphasized.

Rebuilding Through Innovation and Investment

Since stepping into leadership of Wilson Golf, Thurman has focused on two key areas:

Product Innovation: Expanding R&D capabilities and bringing in top-tier talent, particularly in metalwoods, wedges, and putters

Marketing Revamp: Reintroducing Wilson to a new generation of golfers while reconnecting with longtime loyalists

The strategy is working. With strong performance in recent business cycles and a renewed commitment from leadership, Wilson Golf is gaining traction in a competitive market.

Dynapower: Distance Meets Forgiveness

At the center of Wilson’s product lineup is the revitalized Dynapower franchise—built for one purpose: distance and forgiveness. The modern Dynapower family includes:

Dynapower Max: Maximum forgiveness and easy launch

Dynapower Irons: Ideal for mid-handicap players seeking distance and consistency

Dynapower Forged: A compact, players-distance iron with forged feel

On the woods side, Wilson has expanded to four driver models, including the Dynapower LS, Carbon, Max, and the new Max Plus (10K-style)—each tailored to different swing profiles and performance needs. The goal? Give golfers options that are not only powerful but precisely tuned to their game.

Staff Model: Precision for Better Players

While Dynapower focuses on distance, Wilson’s Staff Model line is built for precision and shot-making. From traditional blades to cavity backs and the newer XB (player performance iron), the Staff lineup blends classic shaping with modern forgiveness. These clubs continue to carry the legacy that helped define Wilson’s dominance in major championships.

Smarter Fitting with AI Technology

One of the most forward-thinking developments discussed was Wilson’s investment in fitting technology. The new Wilson Fit AI Optimizer integrates directly with launch monitors to analyze:

Launch windows

Descent angles

Spin rates

Ball flight consistency

This data-driven approach helps golfers get properly fit for clubs—something Thurman stressed is essential. “Golf is hard enough. If your equipment isn’t fit properly, you’re making it even harder,” he noted.

Affordable Innovation: Zero Torque Putters

Wilson is also making waves in the putter category with its new Infinite ZT (Zero Torque) models. Zero torque technology—popularized by premium brands—helps stabilize the putter face throughout the stroke. Wilson’s version brings this innovation to market at a remarkably accessible price point (around $199), making it one of the best value plays in the category.

The Underrated Golf Ball Lineup

Perhaps the most overlooked part of Wilson’s lineup? Its golf balls. Thurman highlighted three standouts:

Duo: A soft, low-spin distance ball known for exceptional feel

Triad: A three-piece urethane ball designed for control and balance

Staff Model / Model X: Tour-level performance for higher swing speeds

In blind testing, the Duo has even been compared favorably in feel to premium balls—often surprising golfers with its softness and performance.

Connecting with the Next Generation

A major theme throughout the conversation was Wilson’s focus on younger golfers.

The fastest-growing segment in golf today is the 18–34 age group, and Wilson is actively working to connect with these players through modern product design, fresh branding, and a “Play Original” mindset. At the same time, the company remains committed to its loyal base—those “Wilson lifers” who have trusted the brand for decades.

When it comes to finding the perfect Father’s Day gift for the golfer who “already has everything,” the answer might be simpler than you think—upgrade what’s already in the bag. On a recent episode of the Worldwide Golf Insider Podcast, host Tom Brassell sat down with John Novosel of Bushnell Golf to break down the latest innovations in distance-measuring technology and why they make ideal gifts this season. From cutting-edge laser rangefinders to GPS speakers and launch monitors, here’s a closer look at what’s new and noteworthy.

Laser Rangefinders: A Massive Leap Forward

Golfers who remember the early days of rangefinders—bulky devices with questionable accuracy—will be amazed at how far the technology has come. The standout product this year is the Tour V7 Shift, which Novosel describes as a “home run” thanks to its combination of performance, simplicity, and price point.

Key Features:

Slope Technology with Visual Clarity - Bushnell’s patented slope feature now includes a green-highlighted slope number inside a vivid red display, making it easier than ever to interpret distances.

JOLT + Visual JOLT - When you lock onto the flag, the device vibrates and displays visual confirmation with bright rings—eliminating any doubt about your target.

BITE Magnetic Mount - No more fumbling in cup holders or pockets—the rangefinder securely attaches to the cart bar.

Improved Weather Resistance (IPX6) - Built to handle the elements better than ever.

Perhaps most appealing: premium display technology that once cost $500+ is now available in the $300 range, making it a compelling upgrade for golfers using older devices.

GPS Evolution: The Wingman HP

Bushnell continues to redefine the GPS category with the Wingman HP, a product that blends entertainment with performance. Originally known for inventing the “GPS speaker” category, Bushnell has taken things to the next level.

What’s New:

Color Touchscreen Display for easy yardage viewing

Enhanced Audio with upgraded speakers and bass

Magnetic Cart Mount (BITE Technology)

Seamless App Integration with automatic course loading

At around $229, it’s not just a golf tool—it doubles as a high-quality Bluetooth speaker for everyday use. Novosel noted that many golfers are upgrading from earlier Wingman models, thanks to the improved sound and added functionality.

Launch Monitors: Tour-Level Data at Home

Perhaps the most exciting category discussed was launch monitors—technology that was once reserved for tour pros and elite club fitters. Today, Bushnell offers accessible, high-performance options like the Launch Pro and LPi, both powered by Foresight Sports technology.

Why It Stands Out:

Tour-Level Accuracy & Consistency - Unlike some competitors, Bushnell emphasizes not just accuracy—but repeatable accuracy on every shot.

Indoor + Outdoor Versatility (Launch Pro) - Set it up in your home simulator, then take it to the range with ease.

Essential Data Only - Focus on what matters most: carry distance, spin rates, and ball data—without overwhelming users.

Flexible Price Points - Options starting around $1,500 make this category more accessible than ever.

As Brassell pointed out, just a decade ago, this level of technology would have cost tens of thousands of dollars.

The Perfect Gift (Even for Yourself)

One theme echoed throughout the conversation: these products aren’t just great gifts—they’re smart upgrades.

Novosel summed it up best:

Upgrade your current device

Pass the old one down to a family member

Everyone wins

Whether it’s the precision of a laser rangefinder, the convenience of a GPS speaker, or the game-changing insights from a launch monitor, Bushnell’s lineup offers something for every golfer—and every budget.

Final Thoughts

Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to invest in better golf—and better tech. As this conversation highlighted, modern equipment isn’t just more advanced—it’s more user-friendly and more affordable than ever. So if you’re shopping for a golfer this year (or dropping hints yourself), Bushnell’s latest innovations might just be the easiest win on your list.

When we sit down with Travis Milleman, you know you’re getting more than just product talk—you’re getting a behind-the-scenes look at how modern golf equipment is engineered, tested, and fit for real players. In this episode of the Worldwide Golf Insider Podcast, Milleman, Senior Design Engineering Manager at PING Golf, breaks down the brand’s newest irons, wedges, and putter innovations—and one theme comes through loud and clear: performance first, but always fit to the player.

The Rise of the “Player’s Distance” Iron: Meet the i540

One of the biggest focal points of the conversation is PING’s new i540 iron, a standout in the fast-growing “player’s distance” category. This segment of irons has surged in popularity over the last decade, catering to golfers who want:

The clean, compact look of a player’s iron

The added speed and distance of modern technology

According to Milleman, the i540 represents one of the most complex iron designs PING has ever produced. Built with a metalwood-style construction, it combines a thin, high-strength face with internal tungsten weighting—delivering explosive ball speed without sacrificing control. But what really separates it? A technology called "inR-Air" (internal noise reduction air).

Why “inR-Air” Matters

This pressurized air insert inside the clubhead:

Dampens unwanted vibrations

Improves sound and feel

Maintains face flexibility for speed

The result? A club that feels soft and controlled—yet still delivers the “hot” distance players crave. And as Milleman emphasizes, distance alone isn’t enough.

“If it goes farther but doesn’t stop on the green, we’re doing the player a disservice.”

That’s why PING engineers focus heavily on launch angle and descent angle, ensuring shots come in high enough to hold greens—even with stronger lofts.

Who Should Play the i540?

The i540 is built for a wide range of golfers, particularly:

Low handicaps seeking extra distance

Mid-handicaps wanting speed without losing looks

Players who value confidence at address

It’s a “bridge” iron—blending performance and playability for golfers who still want a refined appearance in their bag.

Maximum Forgiveness: The G740 Iron

On the opposite end of the spectrum sits the G740, a super game-improvement iron designed to make golf easier—plain and simple. Compared to other models, the G740 features:

A larger clubhead (heel-to-toe and front-to-back)

A wider sole for lower center of gravity

More offset to help square the face

Everything about it is engineered to: Launch the ball higher, improve consistency, protect off-center hits. Milleman puts it bluntly: if you’re new to the game or struggle with consistency, this is the kind of club that can dramatically improve your experience.

The Real Key: Custom Fitting

Throughout the conversation, both Brassell and Milleman keep returning to one critical point:

You can’t unlock performance without proper fitting. PING’s philosophy is built on three-dimensional fitting, dialing in:

Lie angle

Loft

Shaft weight and profile

Even something as simple as choosing the wrong shaft can cost players:

Peak height

Spin rate

Stopping power

PING’s newer tools—like their Copilot fitting system—take it even further, helping golfers build an entire set based on just a few swing inputs.

Short Game Matters: S259 Wedges

While distance gets plenty of attention, Milleman highlights an area where golfers can truly lower scores: inside 100 yards. Enter the S259 wedges, designed with:

Six grind options for different swing types and conditions

Enhanced face friction for consistent spin (especially in wet conditions)

A new “WebFit Wedge” system to simplify fitting

One standout innovation is the Dial-A-Wedge grip, which gives visual cues for face position—helping players consistently set up for bunker shots, chips, and specialty shots. It’s a practical solution to a common problem: most golfers don’t actually know how open or closed their wedge face is.

A Smarter Putter: Scottsdale Tech

PING’s upcoming Scottsdale Tech putters push innovation into the mental side of the game.

Two key concepts stand out:

1. “Quiet Eye” Alignment (IQ Technology)

A simple dot on the topline helps:

Focus attention

Reduce distractions

Improve putting consistency

Backed by cognitive science, this feature has shown measurable improvements in putting performance during testing.

2. Onset Design & CG Control

PING continues to emphasize a fundamental principle:

The center of gravity should always be pulled—not pushed.

By positioning the shaft in front of the CG, the putter becomes more stable through impact—similar to pulling a trailer behind a truck rather than pushing it.

The Bottom Line

This conversation reinforces what has defined PING Golf for decades:

Engineering with purpose

Performance backed by data

Fitting as the foundation of success

Whether it’s the explosive i540, the ultra-forgiving G740, or the precision-focused S259 wedges, every product is designed with a specific golfer in mind. And as both Brassell and Milleman stress, the takeaway is simple: Don’t just buy clubs—get fit for them. Because in today’s game, the right equipment isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

It’s not often you get to trace a conversation back more than a decade, but that’s exactly what made this latest Worldwide Golf Insider Podcast episode so special. Host Tom Brassell welcomed back Mizuno Golf’s Chris Voshall—now Director of Golf for Mizuno USA—for a wide-ranging discussion that highlighted just how far the brand has come.

From forged blades to cutting-edge, tech-infused equipment across the entire bag, Mizuno is no longer just “that iron company.” It’s a full-fledged performance brand—and Voshall made that clear.

A Career Built Alongside Mizuno’s Evolution

Voshall’s journey mirrors Mizuno’s transformation. Starting more than 20 years ago as a test engineer fresh out of college, he’s had his hands on nearly every aspect of product development—from cutting apart competitor clubs for analysis to designing irons, wedges, and woods.

Now leading product direction across major global markets, Voshall sees Mizuno’s current era as just the beginning.

“It feels like the beginning is just happening, even though I’m 22 years in.”

That perspective helps explain the brand’s current momentum—rooted in tradition, but driven by innovation.

Mizuno Pro M-Series: Classic Looks, Modern Firepower

At the heart of Mizuno’s latest release is the new Mizuno Pro M-Series irons—the M13 and M15. While they maintain the sleek, compact look Mizuno is known for, the technology inside tells a very different story.

The M13 is a multi-construction masterpiece:

Long irons feature a forged face with high ball speed technology

Mid irons incorporate a milled slot for added flexibility

Short irons return to a one-piece forging for precision and control

The M15, on the other hand, leans into a hollow-body design with tungsten weighting for higher launch and increased forgiveness—all while maintaining a blade-like profile.

The real story? These sets are built for customization.

“Between the two families, you’ve got five different constructions you can mix and match.”

That flexibility reflects a broader trend in golf—combo sets tailored to individual performance needs.

Why Fitting Matters More Than Ever

One of the strongest themes throughout the conversation was the importance of club fitting.

Golfers used to focus primarily on distance and spin. Today, it’s about:

Launch windows

Peak height

Descent angle

Stopping power

Without proper fitting, those variables can work against you.

“If you’ve got a club that goes far but gets there through roll, you’ve got no chance at a front pin.”

Modern equipment is more powerful than ever—but unlocking that performance requires dialing in the right combination of head, shaft, and even golf ball.

JPX 1 Driver: Rethinking Face Technology

Mizuno’s innovation doesn’t stop with irons. The new JPX 1 driver introduces a groundbreaking nano-alloy face technology that changes how the ball interacts with the clubface.

The concept is simple but powerful:

The material stiffens at rest

Becomes more flexible at impact

Enhances energy transfer and ball speed

The result? Faster ball speeds and improved performance across a larger portion of the face—especially on off-center hits.

Combined with two distinct models (standard and Select), the JPX 1 line offers options for a wide range of players.

Putters and Golf Balls: The Complete Bag

Mizuno has quietly built out a full equipment ecosystem.

M-Craft Putters

The new M-Craft City Series blends craftsmanship with versatility:

Forged in Japan for soft, consistent feel

Classic designs across blade and mallet options

Premium materials like copper underlay for enhanced feedback

For golfers seeking adjustability, the M-Craft X line allows interchangeable components to fine-tune performance.

Mizuno Pro Golf Balls

Since entering the golf ball market in 2020, Mizuno has made rapid improvements. The latest Pro S and Pro X models deliver:

Soft feel across both options

Strong performance with urethane covers

A compelling value proposition with multi-dozen pricing

Even more impressive, Mizuno’s fitting system can recommend the ideal ball based on your swing data—bringing a new level of personalization to an often-overlooked part of the game.

A New Identity for Mizuno

For years, Mizuno was synonymous with elite forged irons. While that heritage remains, it no longer defines the brand entirely.

Today’s Mizuno lineup spans:

Players irons and game-improvement models

Drivers, fairway woods, and hybrids

Wedges, putters, and golf balls

All infused with modern technology and built for performance.

“Take a look at us again. We’ve got a lot more going on than just that.”

Final Thoughts

If there’s one takeaway from this conversation, it’s this: golf equipment has evolved—and Mizuno is right at the forefront of that evolution.

But technology alone isn’t enough.

To truly benefit, golfers need to experience it firsthand:

Get properly fit

Test different combinations

Explore options across the bag

Because in today’s game, the right setup doesn’t just improve performance—it transforms it.

And as Brassell put it, you might just be surprised by what you find when you give it a swing.

Titleist Vokey SM11 Wedges Review: Tour-Inspired Technology for Ultimate Spin, Flight, and Control

The all-new Titleist Vokey Design SM11 wedges represent the latest evolution in short game performance from Titleist—the most trusted wedge brand on the PGA Tour. In this episode of the Worldwide Golf Insider Podcast, Worldwide Golf’s Tom Brassell sits down with Corey Gerrard from the Vokey Wedge division to break down the technology, tour feedback, and fitting insights behind the SM11 lineup.

Built from years of research and validated by the best players in the world, the SM11 wedges are engineered around three key performance pillars: contact, flight, and spin control—the essential ingredients for scoring success.

The Evolution of Titleist Vokey SM11 Wedges

Developing a premium wedge like the SM11 doesn’t happen overnight. According to Gerrard, the process typically takes 2 to 4 years, combining tour player feedback with advanced R&D.

The SM11 builds on the success of the SM10, with insights from Vokey Tour Rep Aaron Dill and Master Craftsman Bob Vokey leading the way. Early testing revealed something unique in the low-bounce T Grind—its center of gravity (CG) aligned perfectly with the ideal strike location (between grooves 2 and 5).

The result?

Lower, more controlled launch

Increased spin consistency

Improved carry distance

Exceptionally soft feel at impact

The key breakthrough in the SM11 was extending this optimized CG placement across all grinds and lofts, ensuring consistent flight and performance regardless of wedge setup.

Tour Feedback: What PGA Tour Players Are Saying

When the SM11 wedges arrived on tour, the reaction from players was immediate—and telling.

Many pros initially asked, “Nothing changed, right?”—a testament to how much they already trusted the look, feel, and performance of previous Vokey wedges.

But the improvements quickly stood out:

Softer, more solid feel

Improved turf interaction

Enhanced spin control across different shot types

Importantly, tour players aren’t chasing maximum spin—they’re chasing predictable spin. With the SM11 wedges, players can generate high spin around the greens while maintaining control on full shots to avoid excessive rollback.

This same principle applies to amateur golfers: consistent spin equals better distance control and lower scores.

Why Contact Is King in Wedge Play

One of the biggest takeaways from Gerrard: strike location matters more than anything else.

The ideal contact point—between grooves 2 and 5—activates the wedge’s center of gravity and groove design. Striking too high on the face leads to:

Ballooning shots

Reduced spin

Loss of distance and control

For better short game results, players should focus on:

Lower, controlled trajectories

Clean, centered contact

Spin that checks instead of overreacts

As Gerrard explains, even bunker shots don’t require excessive height—controlled, lower flight with spin leads to closer proximity and more up-and-downs.

SM11 Wedge Grinds Explained: Finding the Right Setup

The Titleist Vokey SM11 wedges feature six tour-proven grinds:

F Grind

S Grind

M Grind

D Grind

K Grind

T Grind

With 27 loft, bounce, and grind combinations, the SM11 lineup provides unmatched versatility from pitching wedge through lob wedge.

Instead of using the same grind throughout your set, Gerrard recommends building a wedge “toolbox”:

Higher bounce for soft conditions and sand shots

Lower bounce for firm turf and versatility around the greens

This approach allows golfers to adapt to different lies, turf conditions, and shot requirements.

The Importance of Wedge Fitting for Better Short Game Performance

A proper wedge fitting is essential to unlocking the full potential of the SM11 wedges.

The process typically includes:

Gapping analysis (maintaining ~15-yard distance gaps)

Grind testing, including "blind tests" to identify best performance

Evaluation of turf interaction and strike consistency

Custom shaft and grip selection for optimal feel and control

Whether indoors or outdoors, wedge fitting often reveals performance gains golfers didn’t expect—especially around the greens.

Premium Finishes and Custom Options

The SM11 wedges are available in multiple premium finishes, including:

Tour Chrome

Nickel

Jet Black (with fingerprint-resistant coating)

Custom options, including raw finishes, allow golfers to further personalize their wedges for performance and aesthetics.

Final Thoughts: Improve Your Short Game with Titleist Vokey SM11

The Titleist Vokey SM11 wedges deliver tour-level performance through advanced CG placement, refined grinds, and exceptional spin control.

As Corey Gerrard emphasizes, better scoring starts inside 100 yards. Spend more time practicing your short game, focus on clean contact, and dial in your trajectory and spin.

Lastly, touch on the importance of getting custom fit for your Titleist Vokey SM11 wedges. Get custom fit at a Worldwide Golf Retail Location near you or check us out online at www.worldwidegolf.com for all of your golf equipment needs.