2015 Buyer’s Guide: Hybrids & Fairway Metals

Tour Edge Exotics | E8 fairway

[+] Tour-level performance
[+] Adjustable from 12 to 15 degrees, traditional look, hot face
[–] Some disagree on its value
Price: $350


Nike | Vapor Speed hybrid

[+] Channel slot and sole cavity duo
[+] Slot makes face bend for distance; cavity-back weighting for stability
[–] Clubhead branding gets a little strong
Price: $230


Adams | Red hybrid

[+] 25-gram weight for fitting
[+] Company that started it all lets mid-handicappers  custom fit = trust
[–] Some may want higher performance
Price: $230


Callaway | 815 fairway

[+] Highly adjustable=efficiency
[+] 2 weights=better launch angles; welded steel face=more flex
[–] Best for shot-shapers
Price: $300


TaylorMade | R15 TP fairway

[+] Sliding weights, sole channel
[+] Almost mandatory for better players; long, high flight
[–] Adjustability is the key
Price: $280


TaylorMade | R15 hybrid

[+] Sole slot gives more distance
[+] This is a club for the confident golfer; small head, playability
[–] Can intimidate high-handicappers
Price: $220

RELATED LINKS

2015 Buyer’s Guide: Drivers

2015 Buyer’s Guide: Irons

2015 Buyer’s Guide: Wedges

2015 Buyer’s Guide: Putters

2015 Buyer’s Guide: Balls and Shoes

2015 Buyer’s Guide: Golf Accessories

California-based CAG Contributor Ted Johnson writes our annual Buyer’s Guide. For the latest on golf equipment, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter at www.coloradoavidgolfer.com.

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