Grips Buyer's Guide 2006If you quickly—and relatively inexpensively—want to improve the way your clubs look, feel and perform, try a new grip
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By Staff
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Avon Pro D2x
www.avongrips.com
 Most golf instructors believe the upper hand should dominate the golf swing, and the lower hand is essentially just hanging on for the ride. So does Avon, which designed its new Pro D2x to lend firm support on the top region of the grip, while lending a soft grip for the lower hand to prevent it from interfering too much with the swing. Ridges and channels make the Pro D2x a solid all-weather option, and the oversize model is great for those who require a more secure grip.
What We Like: The upper region is available with or without cords to accommodate just about everyone.
Material: Dual-mold compound
Design: Ribbed velvet
Size: Standard, Jumbo
Weight: 51g, 60g (Jumbo)
| Golf Pride Dual Durometer
www.golfpride.com
 Golf Pride’s Dual Durometer has been one of the most popular over the
last two seasons, thanks to its ingenious designs and cord and non-cord
models with the velvety feel. But golfers aren’t the only ones taking
notice. The Arthritis Foundation has bestowed upon the Dual Durometer
grips (along with Golf Pride’s Whisper models) their Ease of Use
commendation for their ability to minimize the painful effects on
joints while swinging a golf club. The secret lies in the design, where
two layers of synthetic rubber combine for gripping traction and
comfort. The inner layer stabilizes the hands, while the outer layer
provides excellent traction and a soft feel. The corded version is an
excellent choice for golfers who play in wet conditions and prefer a
slightly firmer feel with or without a glove. Dual Durometer Lite and
Dual Durometer Putter models are also available.
What We Like: The feel of the corded grip is unlike any corded grip
Golf Pride has made—we mean that in a very good way. Any golfer who
likes the extra grip of cord will find the Dual Durometer a good
option.
Material: Thermoset rubber
Design: Corded velvet, Velvet
Size: Standard, Midsize, Undersize, Putter
Weight: 49g | Golf Pride New Decade MultiCompound
www.golfpride.com
 Every
golfer is familiar with Golf Pride grips, as they’ve been around
seemingly since the beginning of time. The common belief that Golf
Pride offers only traditional grip styles will soon be put to rest by
the New Decade MultiCompound model. This innovative grip features a
combination design with a velvet-cord section in the upper portion of
the grip for firm, all-weather control. The lower portion is made of
soft rubber to provide optimal comfort and feel. It’s a superb model
for golfers who want the best of both worlds.
What We Like: The combination makes the NDMC as modern as a grip can get.
Material: Multi-compound
Design: Velvet (upper cord)
Size: Standard
Weight: 47g | Iomic X-Grip
www.iomicusa.com
 Innovative colors aside, these grips are actually infused with negative
ions to help golfers not only better grip the club, but also relax and
concentrate. The unique proprietary material is designed for supreme
durability and crack resistance, especially when playing in mixed
weather (wet/dry) conditions. These grips are already a sensation in
Japan, so it’s just a matter of time until the U.S. market heeds
notice. Sure, they’re a far cry from all-leather, wrap-style grips, but
they’re right in step with golf’s modern focus.
What We Like: With or without a negative charge, the brilliant styles
and great feel of the Iomic grips are unlike any other model we’ve
tested.
Material: Proprietary synthetic
Design: Velvet
Size: Standard, Putter
Weight: N/A | Karakal X-tack II
karakalgolfgrips.com
 The X-tack line from Karakal is designed for all-weather comfort and
support by using Karakal’s proprietary X Factor process, which is made
to preserve the grips’ tackiness and comfort in all weather conditions.
The X-tack II features a perforated top section (for a firmer top-hand
grip) and a smooth velvet pattern bottom section for increased feel and
feedback on short-range shots. With each Karakal grip, it’s safe to say
vibration is a thing of the past, as each grip absorbs unwanted
vibration with ease. For players who struggle with any type of
arthritic condition or joint pain, a grip with this type of performance
benefit is highly recommended, particularly if you tend you play in
hot, humid or otherwise wet conditions.
What We Like: Drawing inspiration from tennis rackets, these grips are
a fun alternative to cushioned wrap grips. Also, it’s nice to have a
solid alternative to other, more well-known brands. This design is
pretty unique and has an eye-catching look that’s sure to get the
attention of your playing partners.
Material: Synthetic
Design: Perforated/Velvet
Size: Small, Standard, Oversize, Jumbo, Putter
Weight: N/A | Lamkin Dual Density Crossline
www.lamkingrips.com
 The Crossline name has become synonymous with Tour-like performance.
The Dual Density Crossline is no exception, featuring a firm,
torque-resistant underlisting and a soft outer layer produced from a
blended multi-material compound that makes for a unique product. This
combination is aimed at providing both enhanced tack and feel with the
added benefit of shock absorption.
What We Like: A grip for players who like a soft grip but also want the
control of a traditional design. Plus, the Crossline pattern never goes
out of style, and provides plenty of feel and durability.
Material: Multi-blend
Design: Velvet
Size: Standard, Oversize
Weight: 48g, 61g (Oversize) |
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