You haven’t made a list or checked it twice. You’re not alone. If you need help with last-minute gift ideas for a golfer or active-minded person, we’re here to help with items in various sizes and price ranges that will bring comfort or joy to the recipient.
BIG MAX GOLF
Walking a course is better exercise than riding, but carrying a bag isn’t easy for all players and layouts. The three-wheeled push cart from Big Max can help with that, as the swiveling front wheel allows the cart to rotate 360 degrees for ease of use on all terrain. For additional stability, the front wheel can be locked into place when descending steep slopes and the adjustable handle has a handbrake to slow the pace when necessary. The organizer panel also can store accessories, and a folding mechanism allows the cart to collapse into a compact size for quick storage. Visit bigmaxgolf.com
POWER HIP TRAINER
Clubhead speed equals more distance, and more distance leads to more fun … and bragging rights. Developers of the Power Hip Trainer at the Somax Performance Institute claim golfers can add up to 25 mph on their swing speed by using their product. The science behind the device (and there’s a lot) is that it makes more sense to increase the strength and speed of your hips than to increase the strength of your arms for more power off the tee and from the fairway. This is mainly done through a steel spring that provides resistance to rotation, which increases the strength of your hip muscles. Visit somaxsports.com
MOJI FOOT PRO
A day on the golf course is often tough on your feet, no matter if you walked or drove a cart. Moji has three types of foot massagers designed for ease of use and delivery of comfort. The stainless steel spheres in the Mini PRO, Curve PRO and Foot PRO dig deep into muscle and tissues to relieve pain and break up scar tissue. The Mini PRO also fits in your hand for personal massages for your neck and back, and Curve PRO is like a wand that can be used for hard-to-reach areas in addition to your thighs. All can also be stored in the freezer if you want to add a little chill to the rubdown experience. Visit gomoji.com
SKLZ GRIP TRAINER
The most basic fundamental in the golf swing – the grip – is often the easiest to get wrong. The Grip Trainer from SKLZ has a molded grip to ensure that your hands are always in the proper position, and changeable weights allow users to simulate swinging irons (heavy) or woods (light) while also developing your flexibility and golf-specific muscles. The trainer is also designed to help users develop a flatter swing plane, which helps to eliminate slices. Even if you don’t have time for the range, a few swings with the Grip Trainer should groove a good grip for your round. Visit sklz.com
DEAD ZERO PUTTING DISK
The best way to shave strokes from your score is to make more putts. The Dead Zero Putting Disk is designed to help golfers build confidence from 8 feet and in. The anodized aluminum device is an above ground putting target that can be used anywhere at any time. The diameter is based on research published by Dave Pelz that ensures that all putts that strike the disk, even at a glance, simulate a made putt. There are two models, Original and Pro, with the latter including a bubble level to help determine the slope of a green. Visit deadzeroputting.com
GAME GOLF LIVE
In the fast-changing world of mobile and tracking devices, it’s tough to stand out. But Game Golf is doing its best with the first wearable, real time and automatic shot tracker for iOS and Android smartphone platforms. The wearable GPS device communicates with sensor tags at the top of a club’s grip and an integrated software platform that tracks and captures performance data for instant display. Enhanced features include a Strokes Gained Analysis metric and a tips section that interprets the data and offers advice for improvement. The mapping system has been upgraded to include Google Maps, Apple Maps and Bing Maps and includes a course rangefinder. Visit gamegolf.com
GOLF BUDDY LR5S
Laser rangefinders are becoming more common by the round, with most having features to satisfy basic needs. The Golf Buddy LR5S, however, has two that more discerning golfers will appreciate. First is a slope-influenced distance calculation for shots that are uphill or downhill. The second is a feature that allows users to scan targets inside the scope to get a reading on what to shoot for and avoid around the hole. It’s pretty cool when you’re trying to figure out how much room you have between the pin and edges of a green or the distance to get over a bunker to land on a green. The LR5S adjusts between standard, scan and pin mode with the press of a button, so ease of use is also a plus. Visit golfbuddyglobal.com
POPTICALS
One of the cooler products at this year’s PGA Merchandise Show in Las Vegas was Popticals. Made in Italy, the fold-up sunglasses fit in a small case or the palm of your hand. Unfolded, Popticals are sporty sunglasses created with an active outdoor lifestyle in mind. Think portability and performance in what company officials say eventually will be six styles. The flagship model and original style is Popgun, a good blend of science and style. Visit popticals.com
SLIDEBELTS
No holes, no prongs. No fuss, no muss. SlideBelts are made with a ratchet that provides 30 fits in quarter-inch intervals. Simple to use, the SlideBelt buckle has a lever that you pull up to release the ratchet’s teeth, and the one-size belts can be trimmed to your ideal length. Options for men and women include Top Grain, Full Grain, Classic Leather and Canvas in an array of colors. There are also 20 interchangeable buckles; making SlideBelts a good fit your fashion sense as well. Visit slidebelts.com
EXOTICS EX9 DRIVER
If the golfer on your holiday list plays well and often, the TourEdge Exotics EX9 driver will make him or her very jolly. The EX9 has an interchangeable sole weight and adjustability options for lie, loft and lie angles. The TourEdge Exotics line is known for quality components, cutting edge technology and attention to detail. The latest driver offering upholds that tradition. Visit touredge.com
MOGO SEAT
The movement toward an upright office where some people stand at their work stations has made its way to those who love attending outdoor events. Focal is taking advantage of the trend with its portable Mogo Seat that puts users in a hybrid posture between sitting and standing. Whether it’s a youth soccer game or one of the upcoming PGA Tour events coming to the Southland, the lightweight Mogo seat is perfect for sitting, resting and moving to multiple spots. It also collapses to fit in a tote bag or for strapping to a backpack. Visit focalupright.com
GARIA GOLF CAR
You know those commercials each December (and November) that shows a happy husband or wife being surprised by a car in the driveway topped with a big bow? Substitute a Garia for the Lexus and watch the golfer on your Christmas list jump for joy as well. The Garia Golf Car has a spacious cabin and luxury options that include a built-in refrigerator, carbon fiber body and leather seats. The Golf Car also has a maximum speed of 15-19 mph and comes in two-seater, four-seater and Roadster models. Visit garia.com
TELIC FOOTWEAR
It was worse in the days of metal spikes, but a round of golf can be tough on your feet. So, when your round is over, slip into a pair of Telic flip flops or slide-in shoes and let the relief begin. Telic Footwear uses a material that is body-heat activated that gets softer as you wear them. They’re waterproof, light, support the arches and feature a deep heal cup that adds to the level of support. Say aahh. Visit telicfootwear.com
SWINGOIL
Years ago, “swing oil” referred to the beverages golfers drank during a round or at the 19th hole to forget the round. Today, swingOIL means a 3-ounce sport drink in a pouch formulated for golfers by golfers. The seven ingredients include Taurine to sustain muscle activity, Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joints and connective tissue and Ginseng to reduce the effects of stress. For now, the three flavors are orange, lemon lime and strawberry-banana. Visit swingoil.com
