The Eyes Have It
Sunglasses can be problematic on the golf course, but Fairway Transitions SOLFX lenses change all that in the blink of an eye. “They actually improve depth perception,” says Raymond Optician’s Ray Kolkmann. “The exclusive amber tint enhances colors and contrasts.” What’s more, the lenses automatically adjust to all outdoor sun conditions, and block 100 percent of those nasty UV rays. Available in prescription and nonprescription glasses.
Stay Dry and Let It Fly
Every indomitable golfer needs a rain suit. And not some leaky, lunky, binding, plastic hoodie, either. The real deal is the ClimaProof Storm Ultimate Jacket and Pants by Adidas. Modeled after the rain suit worn by the caddies at Bandon Dunes (where rain is as common as bogeys), this suit incorporates lightweight, reinforced double-layer shoulder inserts, four-way mechanical stretch for easy movement and comfort, fully seam-sealed waterproof zippers, waterproof protection to 20,000 mm, and tremendous breathability. It comes in one color — black — and carries a three-year waterproof warranty. Suggested retail prices: jacket $275, pants $225.
Foolproof Putting
Missed any putts lately? If so, it’s highly likely you’ve got an alignment problem. You think you’re aimed at the hole, but you’re off by just enough to send the ball sliding past. The solution? A SeeMore putter like the one used by 2007 Masters champion Zach Johnson. SeeMore putters feature a patented alignment system that helps you set up your putter perfectly each and every time by lining up the bottom portion of the shaft between two white lines and covering a signature red dot on the heel of the top line. If you can’t see the red dot, you’re good to go! It’s foolproof and available in a wide range of styles and sizes to fit every golfer. Prices start at $180.
The Essential Golf Bag
Your caddy — or your own lower back — will thank you for trading in that massive monster and stepping up to the Nike Collegiate Carry Bag. Inspired and tested by top-ranked college players who tote their own, the bag has a nine-inch oval top; a five-way, two full-length divider system; a lightweight fiberglass stand; and six functional pockets including a waterproof fleece-lined valuables pocket, roomy apparel pocket, and dual mesh water-bottle sleeves. It also uses the Nike Woven Double-Single Quick Click strap system that allows fast conversion for one- or two-shoulder carries. Available in silver/black, black/anthracite, or navy/anthracite. Suggested retail price: $150.
Required Golf Reading
Slice Free Golf by Brian Crowell
The head pro at Bedford Hills’s GlenArbor Golf Club (and NBC golf commentator) wants to banish your banana ball. This easy-to-follow guide to the no-slice golf swing takes the mystery out of hitting ’em straight — and the misery out of your scores.
The Golf Links of Scotland by George Peper and Iain Lowe
You won’t find this one on the remainder table at your neighborhood bookstore. This ultimate hole-by-hole tour of the Old Course at St. Andrews is an ultra-deluxe, hand-tooled leather-bound tome by long-time Sleepy Hollow Country Club member George Peper. It’s a very limited edition that sells for a mere $5,000.
Golf’s Dream 18s by David Barrett
White Plains golf writer David Barrett has imagined some of the most fabulous courses made up of the greatest holes — not just from Westchester, but from all over the world (although you’ll recognize several of the holes from local courses). Appropriately enough, there are 18 to fantasize about.
