Equipment innovation thrives among independent makers

Our goal is to make high-performance and optically enhanced putters, while keeping traditional standards in both looks and feel, said Durnin, who is based in San Mateo, Calif.

Suggested retail price is $169 per putter.

AIRSLOT

Made by a Clearwater, Fla.-based company called LinksWalker, several GolfWeb testers had positive comments after testing the companys AirSlot driver.

Available in various lofts with a 360cc forged titanium head, the company asserts that the drivers unique air slot produces less backspin than traditional clubs, thus translating to a lower trajectory and longer roll.

GolfWeb testers praised the clubs solid feel at impact and workability.

Suggested retail price is $299 per driver.

DIVNICKGOLF

As their names imply, DivnickGolfs Big Dick and Big Jane drivers are suited to play by men and women, respectively.

Made with 400cc forged titanium heads in various lofts, the drivers are geared to provide a high launch/low spin shot. Testers praised the drivers for their tight shot patterns.

Also available are matching 17- and 20-degree Little Dick and Little Jane fairway woods.

Based in Dayton, Ohio, DivnickGolfs suggested retail prices are $349 per driver and $299 per fairway wood.

LADY GOLF

A high-end golf retailer and supplier based in Rancho Mirage, Calif., Lady Golf has launched its first shoe designs: the Malibu Sling and the Quattro Sandal.

Made of soft pigskin uppers and a brushed underlining, these golf sandals are tailored specifically for women. Each pair includes four colorful and interchangeable kilties.

Suggested retail prices are $89.95 per pair.

3M

Here is a major brand name, having taken part in more than 50,000 products worldwide, now entering the golf arena with its own calling card: the 3M Golf Glove.

Made primarily of Cabretta leather, 3Ms Golf Glove adds a proprietary gripping material, called Greptile Grip, to the palm. The material is composed of thousands of tiny particles to help create a sturdier grip than standard leather gloves. According to the company, this translates to increased clubhead speed.

GolfWeb testers deemed the 3M Golf Glove satisfactory for gripping stability and durability.

Suggested retail price is $15.95 per glove.

Editor's note: Chuck Stogel writes about golf equipment. Look for his columns each week on GolfWeb and PGATOUR.COM.