What’s in the Bag of a Golf Monthly Equipment Tester

As a gear tester for Golf Monthly, I’ve gone through my entire bag to let you grasp all the equipment I actually use. This isn’t just a list of clubs – it’s a carefully curated setup based on years of testing, fitting, and on-course experience. My role gives me unique access to the latest equipment, but my bag reflects what genuinely works for my game, not just what’s modern.

Being a PGA Professional and former head pro at Celtic Manor (host of the 2010 Ryder Cup) has shaped my approach to equipment selection. I spent years heading up National Fitting Centers for both Titleist and Taylormade, which means I understand how clubs should perform – and more importantly, how they should sense in your hands.

My Current Golf Bag Setup

Here’s every piece of equipment in my setup, along with where you can find them:

• Driver: [Current model being tested] – Custom fitted to my specifications
• Fairway Woods: [Specific models from recent testing] – Chosen for versatility off the tee and from the fairway
• Hybrids: [Models tested for this season] – Replacing long irons for better consistency
• Irons: [Current test set] – Selected for the right balance of forgiveness and workability
• Wedges: [Specific lofts and grinds] – Critical for scoring around the greens
• Putter: [Current preferred model] – The one that gives me confidence on the greens
• Golf Ball: [Ball currently in testing] – Chosen for feel and performance characteristics

Each item in my bag has earned its place through rigorous testing. As someone who focuses primarily on fairway woods, hybrids, wedges, and putters in my testing role, I pay special attention to these categories – but I evaluate everything that goes in the bag.

Why This Setup Works for Me

My +4 handicap means my equipment needs differ from the average golfer’s, but the principles remain the same: consistency, confidence, and suitability to your swing. Custom fitting isn’t just for tour players – it’s how you get the most out of your equipment.

I regularly update my setup based on what I’m testing, but changes are thoughtful, not impulsive. New equipment only earns a spot if it demonstrably improves performance or solves a specific problem in my game.

The Value of Being an Equipment Tester

Getting to test the latest golf clubs isn’t just about having new gear – it’s about understanding trends, technologies, and what actually makes a difference on the course. This insight helps me provide genuine advice to golfers looking to improve their equipment.

Whether you’re considering a new driver, wondering if hybrids could aid your long game, or looking for the right wedge setup, the testing process reveals what marketing materials often don’t: how clubs perform in real-world conditions over multiple rounds.

My bag isn’t static – it evolves as I test new equipment and as my game changes. But every change is based on data, feel, and performance, not just what’s newest on the shelf.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do you change your golf bag setup?

I evaluate my setup continuously through testing, but I only make changes when new equipment proves to be genuinely better for my specific game – not just because it’s new.

What’s the most important club in your bag?

While all clubs matter, I put particular emphasis on wedges and putter since scoring opportunities happen most frequently around and on the greens.

Do you use the same settings as tour professionals?

No. My custom fitting specs are tailored to my +4 handicap and swing characteristics. What works for tour players may not suit amateur golfers, which is why personal fitting is so important.

How do you decide what stays in your bag?

Equipment stays in my bag based on on-course performance over multiple rounds, consistency, feel, and how well it addresses specific needs in my game.

Your golf bag should reflect your game, not someone else’s. While seeing what professionals and experts use can be informative, the best setup for you comes from understanding your own swing, tendencies, and goals – ideally through a professional fitting session.