Nike expands its driver line with additional SasQuatch sightings

Nike Golf, which first launched its distinctive Sumo drivers early last year, has now given birth to a second generation of the high-tech clubs.

The original SQ Sumo and SQ Sumo2 (as in squared) were among the first to take dramatic advantage of advances in geometric design and equipment rules allowances. The latest models, called SQ Sumo 5000 and SQ Sumo2 5900, are geared to push the scientific envelope even further -- but within USGA limits.

SQ Sumo2 5900 driver

"Last year, in a sense, was just part of the process of investigating the (geometric) limits of what could be done with a driver," said Tom Stites, Nike Golf's director of club creation. "Backed by years of research and trial and development, this is a continuing, evolutionary process. All along, the goal is the same: to help golfers hit the ball straighter and farther ... and to make clubs that are more forgiving, especially on off-center hits."

First, some definitions: In Nike parlance, Sumo stands for SU and MO, as in SUper MOment of Intertia. The MOI of a club is a number derived by a mathematical formula designed to measure stability. For golfers, stability relates primarily to forgiveness on off-center hits, but the MOI of a club also plays into characteristics such as trajectory and distance.

Additionally, for Nike, SQ represents SasQuatch, the mythical Bigfoot creature (spelled Sasquatch). Both new drivers, the 5000 and 5900, have large footprints. They are 460cc by volume, which is the USGA limit for clubs.

The two new drivers, along with reengineered Nike One Platinum and One Black multilayer balls, began shipping to pro shops and golf stores just last month. Also new for this season is Nike's Karma ball, a two-piece product designed for golfers with slower swing speeds.

The drivers and the Nike One balls are already enjoying success among the company's tour pros. Stephen Ames won late last season with the new SQ Sumo2 5900 driver and K.J. Choi won at the beginning of this season using the SQ Sumo 5000. Tiger Woods, incidentally, plays with Nike's original SQ Tour driver. The growing Nike tour roster also includes Paul Azinger, Chad Campbell, Stewart Cink, Paul Casey, Trevor Immelman, Justin Leonard, Grace Park, Suzann Pettersen and others.

Poll Do you think the USGA limit of 14 clubs should be increased?   72%  No     28%  Yes     Total Votes: 1609

Range and course testing of both drivers and the One balls among a variety of players assembled by CBSSports.com has been highly positive.

Here's a look at the latest from Nike Golf.

Drivers

The new 5000 and 5900 drivers join Nike's family of Sumo clubs, which also includes irons and hybrids that were introduced last year.

Both drivers feature Nike's PowerBow technology, which strategically repositions weight to help enhance stability. Both drivers also have a noticeable curved, yellow strip across the soleplate.

The SQ Sumo 5000 driver is the more traditional looking of the new clubs. It has a deep-faced profile and rounded head, and lends itself to greater workability by more advanced players.