Whether it’s golf equipment, bags, apparel or what goes underneath, I have GO-TO items for each. And when they go on sale, I most always make a purchase because I know I will need them eventually (it’s never a bad idea to have an extra in stock of certain items). Below are my new favorite purchases that I can’t live without…
Racerback Bra
I don’t usually wear a sports bra when playing because I think they can be a little warm, and sometimes a little confining. That’s particularly true where I live (Las Vegas). I’ve found that wearing a racerback bra gives me comfort and support, but best of all, I’m not messing with my straps during the round. The best one I’ve found is the Maidenform Racerback with smoothing back and sides, and “smart zone cups” for shape and support. These are frequently on sale at Macy’s (on sale as I type this for $19.99!) and many times you can use coupons they send you. I had a little trouble at first figuring out my size, but I’ve come to the conclusion that I need to go up a size in the rib cage and down a size in cup to make it fit properly (so it’s not squeezing my back fat!).
Best features: Comes in three colors and is reasonably priced.
Socks
My friend Karen wanted me to write a entire blog on socks — instead I’m going to summarize some key points for you. Yes, they can be a pain in the ass when they fall down in your shoe causing blisters if you aren’t careful. I’ve purchased a bunch over the last year or so to test out from UnderArmour, Bombas, the brands on Amazon, plus Puma which Costco sells.
My picks: First, Bombas. These are a bit pricey but they do last for a really, really long time, come in lots of colors and keep their shape. First time customers receive 20% off. Better yet, the company donates socks to those in need for each pair purchased. Good good.
Second, Saucony Women’s Selective Cushion Performance No Show Athletic Sport Socks (6 & 12 Pairs) which you can buy on Amazon. They are reasonably priced and are durable.
Golf Shoes
I’m addicted right now to my Adidas Women’s Zg21 Recycled Polyester Boa Golf Shoes. These came out last year and you can find them in three colors. Adidas has continued producing these for this year with slightly different styling. They are a great shoe, very sturdy and comfy. I went 1/2 size smaller than normal as I think they run a little big. You can also check with the PGA Superstore for more sizes and availability. I got my friend My hooked on them and she won’t buy anything else. One bonus item, they got really dirty from playing in the Desert Classic in Phoenix so I put in my washer with some old towels and did a quick easy wash on cold — they came out perfect!!
Best features: They are sturdy, comfortable and flattering on your feet.
Golf Bag
I was desperate for a new bag back in December. When I called my friend at Sun Mountain, they said they’d have no inventory until April because of supply chain issues. I then asked my club what they had in stock and wound up with a Vessel bag. I am sooo happy I bought it. I’ve seen a few of these around but never really knew what they were all about until I started researching. The material used in their bags is mainly microfiber and premium vegan leather which has several advantages over common leather bags due to its lightweight, easy to clean, water-resistant, and abrasion resistance features. I am now hooked on everything Vessel, including their backpacks, travel bags and head covers.
Best features: Vessel bags are incredibly durable and great looking. They have many large pockets which can hold a ton of stuff. They have a large selection of bags which are all customizable and they even make a small Sunday bag/travel version which my friend Lyndi has and loves.
Tote Bag
This neoprene tote bag by Parker & Hyde is my new favorite golf hold-all tote bag. One day I saw my friend Kathy using this bag and I knew I had to have one. I am constantly getting compliments on it and someone recently told me they saw it in Caesar’s in a retail shop. No reason to come all the way here to purchase — Dillard’s carries them and/or you can buy online through Parker & Hyde‘s own website. They’re reasonably priced and if you’re lucky, you may be able to find them on sale.
Best features: They are light, soft, washable and come in numerous colors. P.S. These would make awesome tee gifts for your next member-guest event.
Sunglasses
I have been wearing Oakley’s since I don’t know when. I must have over a dozen different pairs because I have trouble parting with them. But I love my latest purchase from Oakley.
These are the EVZero™ Path® (Low Bridge Fit) (for smaller faces but they have a regular fit also). My particular pair are the photochromic lenses which means that the lenses change according to the amount of sunlight. I absolutely love these and won’t wear anything else for golf.
Best features:. They are light, durable and have a great sense for golf. Join their MVP program and receive all kinds of benefits, including help with repairs and discounts on future purchases. P.S. Oakley sunglasses also make a great tournament gift.
These are the best suggestions for gear I currently have — I hope these are helpful!
Thanks for tuning in. If you find yourself digging my blog, please feel free to forward it to a friend who might also enjoy it. As always, I would love to hear from you — feel free to shoot me an email to blake@thewomangolfer.com with any questions, comments or suggestions for future posts.