Golf Archives

Five Amazing Golf Venues the VPAR Events have Visited this Year

Posted on June 19, 2025June 19, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

PGA Frisco – Texas, USA

PGA Frisco is a bold new chapter in American golf. A destination with unlimited fun on and off the course. This expansive and state of the art golf venue is home to two championship courses. The Fields Ranch East is a strategic masterpiece by Gil Hanse. And Fields Ranch West is a more accessible yet equally engaging design by Beau Welling. Later this year it will host the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. And is already set to host the 2027 PGA Championship. With world class golf, modern amenities, and an electric atmosphere, PGA Frisco delivers an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike.

Killeen Castle – Dublin, Ireland

Just 30 minutes from Dublin, Killeen Castle Golf Club combines world-class golf with genuine Irish hospitality. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course offers a rewarding challenge for players of all abilities. It’s set in the stunning grounds of a 12th-century castle. What truly sets Killeen Castle apart is its friendly, welcoming vibe and the outstanding service from its staff. The club made history in 2011 as the proud host of the Solheim Cup, confirming its place among Europe’s top golf venues.

St Georges Hill Golf Club – Surrey, England

Built for luxury in the 1920s, St George’s Hill Golf Club is a masterpiece of classic design set in the heart of Surrey. The Harry Colt course flows effortlessly through the beautiful Surrey heathland. The clubhouse is widely regarded as one of the most stunning in the world. A combination of character and history. With a superb carvery lunch and a team known for their exceptional service, St George’s Hill is a golf venue where tradition and quality come together in every detail.

Valle Del Este – Costa Almería, Spain

Located just 40 minutes from Almería Airport, Valle del Este Golf Resort is the perfect all-in-one destination for a golf getaway. With the hotel, golf course, driving range, and pool all on-site, everything you need is just a short walk away. It’s incredibly convenient for both individuals and groups. The course itself features some truly memorable holes. Quirky, fun layout and dramatic elevation changes that keep things exciting from start to finish. Add in the super friendly and helpful staff, and you’ve got a relaxed, welcoming environment that makes you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

El Camaleón Golf Club – Riviera Maya, Mexico

El Camaleón Golf Club, part of the Mayakoba Resort in the Riviera Maya, is a Greg Norman designed gem. The course mixes seaside views with jungle vibes for a fun and challenging round. One of the standout spots is Hole 7. It features a fairway cave called ‘the Devil’s Mouth,’ a natural cenote that really shows off the course’s stunning natural beauty. El Camaleón has hosted professional events from the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, and LIV Golf. Hence, it has a reputation as a top golf destination. All in all, with super friendly staff and a laid back vibe, it is a golf experience you will not forget.

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes.
Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland.
Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.

VPAR’s Featured Holes at Oakmont Country Club

Posted on June 13, 2025 by Stephen

Hole 3

Accuracy off the tee is critical, with the famous Church Pew bunkers guarding the left and deep fairway traps on the right.

Finding the fairway is key to maximizing your chances of controlling the ball on the approach to an elevated green.

The green is relatively flat by Oakmont standards, but still demands precise distance and spin control.

Notoriously one of the most difficult par 4s in the country.

Hole 8

One of the longest par 3s in the world, par is an excellent score here.

Anything slightly left is likely to find the ‘Sahara bunker’, a sprawling 100 yard long hazard that punishes even the slightest miss.

The putting surface is not as heavily contoured as others at Oakmont, but birdie chances are rare given the hole’s length.

Famously, it was the only blemish on Johnny Miller’s card, making a bogey during his historic final-round 63 to win the 1973 U.S. Open.

Hole 17

The penultimate hole presents a crucial risk-reward challenge that could decide the championship on Sunday afternoon.

Most players will take driver off the tee, with multiple strategies to attack this birdie opportunity.

The most troublesome bunker is short, right of the green, named ‘Big Mouth’ for its ability to swallow approaches.

During the 2016 U.S. Open, the hole produced 129 birdies, though champion Dustin Johnson played it smart, making four pars on his way to victory

Hole 18

One of the toughest closing holes in golf.

A long, straight tee shot is a must, with trouble waiting on both sides of the fairway.

The uphill approach plays to a large, undulating green where even a safe shot can leave a difficult two-putt.

Dustin Johnson made birdie here in the final round of the 2016 U.S. Open to secure his first major victory.

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

Can Scottie Scheffler catch Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus?

Posted on May 23, 2025June 13, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Mindset

Scottie Scheffler doesn’t carry the same intensity as Tiger Woods or the aura of Jack Nicklaus. But beneath his calm demeanor is a killer instinct that mirrors theirs. He remains grounded and focused on the process, often deflecting praise in interviews and pointing instead to faith, family, and the basics. While Tiger thrived on intimidation and Jack thrived on control, Scottie thrived on consistency. And doing the basics right week in week out, grinding his opponents into the ground.

Consistency

Scheffler’s statistical dominance is no fluke. He’s posted record-breaking strokes-gained numbers and leads fields week after week, especially with his iron play. He’s also become remarkably consistent despite struggles on the greens. That makes his success even more impressive. If he can maintain around this level for over a decade, the comparison to Tiger and Jack becomes less speculative and more data-driven. While Tiger had dominant peaks and Jack had consistent major performances, Scheffler may be a hybrid model of both.

Injury Risk

One major issue in Scottie catching Woods and Jack is injury risk. Tiger Woods’ career was repeatedly set back by injuries which came from his explosive power and the toll of playing under intense physical and mental strain. Scheffler’s swing is controlled and efficient, and his swing doesn’t look like it will grind down his body the way Tiger’s did. But professional golf is a marathon and you never know how a player’s body will handle the grind. Avoiding serious injury will be a non-negotiable if Scheffler wants to chase 15 or 18 majors.

Time Frame

Scheffler turned pro in 2018 and, as of now, is still just 28 years old. At the 2025 PGA Championship, Scheffler joined Woods and Nicklaus in winning three or more majors and 15 or more PGA Tour events before the age of 29. Nicklaus won his 18th major at age 46, and Tiger won his 15th at 43. That gives Scottie nearly two decades to build his resume. If he stays healthy and keeps winning the way he is, he’s suddenly in the GOAT conversation. But golf history is full of players who shined brightly for a few seasons, only to fall off. However, something feels different with Scottie Scheffler so we’ll have to sit back, and watch it unfold.

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

VPAR Feature Blog: Handicap Analysis

Posted on May 19, 2025May 19, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Every golfer knows that a handicap is more than just a number. It’s a reflection of skill, consistency, and improvement over time. With the VPAR Handicap system, players get a dynamic and accurate measure of their ability, along with in-depth analysis to track progress and refine their game.

How the VPAR Handicap Works

VPAR’s Handicap analysis is designed to provide a real-time, responsive measure of your golfing ability. Unlike traditional handicaps that may take time to adjust, the VPAR app system updates dynamically based on your recent rounds. This ensures an up-to-date reflection of your performance. By factoring in course difficulty and recent scores, the VPAR Handicap ensures a fair and balanced representation of your skill level.

In-Depth Handicap Analysis

VPAR goes beyond just providing a number—it offers comprehensive insights into your performance through detailed analytics. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Performance Trends

See how your handicap evolves over time with trend graphs that illustrate improvements or areas that may need extra attention. Whether you’re on an upward trajectory or facing a slump, VPAR helps you stay informed.

2. Strengths & Weaknesses Breakdown

By analyzing your past rounds, VPAR highlights which aspects of your game are performing well and which areas need improvement. Struggling with your short game? Excelling in driving accuracy? The breakdown ensures you focus on the right aspects to lower your scores.

3. Course-Specific Performance

Discover how you fare on different courses with detailed statistics tailored to each venue you’ve played. Identify which courses suit your game and which present challenges, allowing you to strategise accordingly.

4. Round Comparisons

Compare your latest round with past performances to identify patterns. Whether you’re consistently shaving strokes off your score or encountering similar challenges round after round, VPAR gives you the insights to adapt and improve.

5. Peer Benchmarking

Curious about how your game stacks up against others? VPAR lets you compare your handicap with friends and fellow competitors, giving you extra motivation to keep improving.

Take Control of Your Game

The VPAR Handicap isn’t just about numbers—it’s about empowering you with data to play smarter, train better, and enjoy the game more. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a serious competitor, VPAR’s in-depth analysis ensures you have everything you need to elevate your game.

Download the app, track your rounds, and watch your handicap evolve as you take your golf game to the next level!

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.

He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)

If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!

The VPAR Team’s 2025 PGA Championship Picks

Posted on May 13, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Niall’s Pick

Viktor Hovland has all the tools to win the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow. Known for his elite ball-striking and remaining calm under pressure, Hovland thrives on demanding courses that reward precision, exactly what Quail Hollow requires. His steady improvement around the greens, combined with major championship experience and a FedEx Cup title under his belt, makes him a serious threat. If he brings his A-game, especially with the putter, there’s every reason to believe he can capture his first major title in Charlotte.

Will B’s Pick

At odds of 200-1, Ryan Fox presents an intriguing opportunity for this week’s PGA Championship. Fresh off his maiden PGA Tour victory at the Myrtle Beach Classic, Fox comes into the tournament with confidence and form. The New Zealander is no stranger to high-pressure situations, having secured significant wins around the world including the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. His proven ability to compete on big stages, combined with a game well-suited to Quail Hollow, makes him a great each-way choice. Fox’s length off the tee will be a valuable asset on this demanding layout, and if he can maintain his recent momentum, he has the potential to contend well into the weekend.

Andy’s Pick

Off the back of my successful Masters pick, and all of the stick that was thrown in my direction, there’s only one man I’m backing for the 2025 US PGA Championship and that’s Rory McIlroy. The shackles are off and I’m ready for the Major floodgates to open!

Joakim’s Pick

Justin Thomas, a two-time PGA Championship winner, including a memorable victory at Quail Hollow, remains a formidable presence in any major field. If he can maintain his recent form, Thomas is well-positioned for another strong showing. As we’ve seen with his performances at the RBC Heritage and last week at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, when he’s on his game, he’s a constant threat to climb the leaderboard.

Jack’s Pick

At Quail Hollow, Rory McIlroy has been nothing short of dominant, being a remarkable 109-under par over the past decade, compared to the next closest competitor at around 50-under par. His elite distance off the tee allows him to fly many of the course’s natural bottlenecks that force others to lay back, giving him a clear strategic edge. Combine that with his deep familiarity with a course he knows like the back of his hand, and McIlroy enters the PGA Championship with a significant advantage over the field.

Will G’s Pick

Despite a disappointing start to the year due to injury, I believe Xander Schauffele will defend his title at the PGA Championship. He has an impressive track record at Quail Hollow, having finished runner-up at the Wells Fargo Championship in both 2023 and 2024. Class is permanent!

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

VPAR Feature Blog: Advert Free

Posted on May 12, 2025May 12, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

At VPAR, we’re all about delivering the best experience for golfers who live and breathe the game. That’s why we’re excited to introduce VPAR Premium – the ultimate way to enjoy the app, now completely ad-free.

A Cleaner, More Tailored Feed

With VPAR Premium, you can say goodbye to distractions and hello to a more personalized experience. No more interruptions—just the content that matters most to you. Whether you’re tracking your stats, keeping up with friends, or planning your next round, your feed is now fully tailored to your game.

A More Convenient Way to Play

We know that time on the course is precious, and we want to make sure your digital experience complements that. Removing ads means a smoother, faster journey through the app, letting you focus on what’s important—your game.

Elevate Your Golfing Experience

VPAR Premium isn’t just about an ad-free experience; it’s about creating a seamless and more immersive way to interact with your golfing world. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a dedicated competitor, upgrading to Premium ensures you get the most out of every moment.

Upgrade today and take your VPAR experience to the next level!

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

VPAR Feature Blog: Club Recommendation

Posted on May 5, 2025April 29, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Golf is a game of precision, strategy, and continuous improvement. Having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. Regardless if you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend enthusiast. VPAR, the leading app for real-time golf scoring and GPS, offers a feature that is quickly becoming indispensable for golfers. The Golf Bag & Club recommendation feature. After all, this tool does more than track your performance—it actively helps you make smarter decisions on the course. Let’s dive into how the VPAR Golf Bag feature enhances customization and provides valuable course assistance.

Customization for Every Golfer

No two golfers are the same, and VPAR recognizes this. The Golf Bag feature is designed to be fully customizable. Above all, it ensures that your virtual golf bag reflects your real-life preferences and setup. From drivers to putters, you can easily log the clubs you use, providing a digital version of your golf equipment at your fingertips. Here’s how this helps:

Easy Club Tracking: Inputting your specific clubs into the VPAR app lets you track how well each club is performing over time. By seeing your stats, you can easily identify patterns—whether your 9-iron is your go-to, or your wedge game needs improvement. It’s like having your caddy provide regular performance reviews.

Personalized Club Suggestions: Based on your previous performance, you are able to manually update how far you hit each club. Then VPAR will recommend which club to use. This level of personalization ensures that you’re always playing with the right club for the situation. And it helps you make informed decisions especially when you’re under pressure.

Optimized for Your Game: The app allows you to adjust and fine-tune your bag setup at any time. Whether you want to try a new driver or remove a club that’s been underperforming, you can make those adjustments easily within the app. The flexibility means you’re not just stuck with one static setup—you can evolve your golf bag as your game evolves.

On-Course Assistance: Smarter Play with Data

While customization is key, VPAR takes it a step further with its course assistance features. The app integrates club recommendations into real-time course play, leveraging GPS technology, historical data, and the current course environment.

Club Suggestions in Real-Time: Imagine being on a tricky par-4 hole with water hazards and unpredictable wind conditions. Instead of second-guessing yourself, the VPAR app gives you data-driven recommendations on the best club to use, considering your past performance and the conditions around you. It’s like having an AI-powered caddy by your side, helping you navigate each challenge.

Yardage Accuracy: VPAR uses highly accurate GPS to provide exact distances to the green, hazards, and other landmarks. By pairing this data with the clubs in your virtual golf bag, it offers club recommendations based on the distances you’re comfortable with. This feature can help you make more confident swings, knowing you’ve got the right tool for the shot.

Post-Round Analysis: After your round, the app provides detailed insights into how your clubs performed. How many Fairways did you miss? And how many Greens did you hit in regulation? Did your short game let you down? This data is invaluable for improving your game. You can adjust your strategy and equipment for future rounds, ensuring you’re always playing at your best.

Elevating Your Game with VPAR

The VPAR Golf Bag feature isn’t just about customization. It’s about leveraging modern technology to make smarter, more informed decisions on the golf course. Whether you’re an amateur golfer looking to improve or a seasoned player aiming for consistency, the app’s club recommendation and tracking system can provide the edge you need.

Summary of Key Benefits:

Complete customization of your golf bag to match your actual setup.

Real-time club recommendations based on course conditions and your past performance.

GPS-integrated yardage data for accurate club selection.

Post-round analysis to help you fine-tune your game.

Golf has always been about making the right choices on the course. And with the VPAR Golf Bag feature, those choices become a lot easier. Also, by combining customization and advanced course assistance, the VPAR app empowers you to play smarter, improve faster, and enjoy the game even more.

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

Favourite Golf Courses I’ve Played – Damian’s Top 5

Posted on April 30, 2025April 29, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

From the moment I was born, golf has been woven into the Harris tweed of my family life. This connection stems from my Dad’s career as a professional golf photographer, capturing the magic of major tournaments and iconic famous golf courses across every continent since the late 70’s. Growing up, and well into adulthood, I’ve been incredibly lucky to play some of the most stunning golf courses, both in my home country of the UK and throughout Europe.

However, my top five golf courses aren’t just based on prestige or how challenging they are. They represent unforgettable experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and the sheer happiness the game has given me…It just shows how much I love pure Links golf!

Follow Damian’s golfing journey and catch all the latest action on Instagram: @damianharris.golf

5. Brora Golf Club

Location: Brora, Scotland

There’s nothing modern or gimmicky about Brora. It offers a wonderfully traditional “outbound and return” golf links experience and what a cracking course it is. From the moment you’re greeted by the sight of Highland cows and grazing sheep, you know you’re in for something raw and special. The front nine hugs the North Sea coastline, providing some of the closest seaside holes you’ll find anywhere in Scotland.

Unlike many links courses, there are no towering dunes to block the breathtaking seascapes but that also means when the wind blows, you’ll need to hold onto your cap…or even a tight grip of your golf bag! The ground undulates gently, giving the course a natural rhythm. Along the way, you’ll encounter just a few electric fences, quietly protecting the fast, true greens from the local grazers. Brora is a beautiful balance of challenge, fun, raw, and undeniable authenticity.

4. The Island Golf Club

Location: Corballis, Ireland

Established in 1890, The Island Golf Club offers breathtaking, raw, and rustic views over the Malahide Estuary. The course is a thrilling test of golf, with narrow fairways, towering dune formations, and exciting risk-reward holes scattered throughout. Beyond the incredible golfing experience, what truly elevated my time at The Island was the community spirit. The warm, welcoming hospitality at both the Clubhouse and the Pro Shop made me feel like a local member from the moment I arrived. The perfect atmosphere to relax before and after a memorable round. And don’t miss out on the sticky toffee pudding. It’s an absolute must when you visit!

kennemer golf and country club — Source: 1Golf – Kennemer Golf & Country Club

3. Kennemer Golf & Country Club

Location: Zandvoort, the Netherlands

Since relocating to the Netherlands nine years ago, I’ve been lucky to live just 30 minutes from one of the country’s most historic golfing gems. Kennemer Golf & Country Club. Tucked just inland from the beaches of Zandvoort and only a quick lap and spin from the Formula One Grand Prix circuit. Kennemer is steeped in tradition and prestige. The club boasts 27 beautifully crafted holes, each named after influential figures in its rich history – Van Hengel, Pennink and Colt. As soon as you arrive, the sight of the rolling links land and the stately, thatched-roof clubhouse immediately tells you this is somewhere special.

Personally, I couldn’t wait to experience Kennemer for myself. Knowing that the great “Seve” captured his first professional victory here at the 1976 Dutch Open gave me genuine goosebumps! If you’re a links lover, this traditional historic British-like club Kennemer should not be missed and should be added to your European must-play list immediately.

2. The European Club

Location: Ardanairy, Brittas Bay, Ireland

The European Club is the personal masterpiece of legendary golf course designer Pat Ruddy. In my experience, it is one of the most beautiful links courses I have ever had the privilege to play. The memory of that day will stay with me forever. Upon arriving at the clubhouse, we were warmly welcomed by none other than Pat Ruddy himself. His sharp wit, intelligence, and sense of humor set the tone for the unforgettable day ahead. Looking back, it’s clear that the course is a true reflection of Ruddy’s character – bold, challenging, full of depth, and entirely unique.

Set amidst unspoiled dunes, The European Club features exceptionally long holes, enormous bunkers, and deep, punishing rough. It demands respect but rewards those who connect with its spirit. The views from start to finish were simply breathtaking. Not going to lie… I had a slight tear! By the end of the round, the soul of the course and the warmth of the Ruddy family had truly captured my heart. I hope one day I can return to this epic golf course in the stunning country of Ireland.

1. Royal Dornoch

Location: Dornoch, Scotland

This historic club needs no introduction. As the home of Donald Ross and footprints of Old Tom Morris at Royal Dornoch. This is a pilgrimage site for lovers of true links golf. From the moment you arrive at the clubhouse, you’re greeted by the sight of the 1st tee and the 18th green. A breathtaking first impression of this masterpiece of golf course design. Royal Dornoch’s undulating fairways offer a unique challenge. The course runs fast, thanks to its perfect links soil, and every time I’ve played there, the greens have been nothing short of superb.

In fact, the greens are what truly set Royal Dornoch apart from many other well-known links courses. Many are perched on elevated plateaus, ruthlessly punishing any errant approach. Running the ball up onto the greens is rarely an option, demanding precision and nerve on every shot. The ever-unpredictable Highland weather only adds to the test. A round here requires a steady hand, major focus and at times, nerves of steel. If you haven’t yet played the Championship Course at Royal Dornoch, make no mistake: it belongs at the very top of your golfing bucket list. For me, it truly is golf heaven on Earth.

VPAR Feature Blog: Guest Profiles

Posted on April 28, 2025April 28, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Save Time on the 1st Tee with VPAR Premium Guest Profiles

At VPAR, we’re always looking for ways to make your golf experience smoother and more enjoyable. That’s why we’ve introduced an exclusive VPAR Premium feature: Guest Profiles – a game-changing addition that saves you time and adds unmatched convenience.

What’s New?

With this feature, you no longer need to enter a valid email address when adding a player. Simply create a profile, input their name, and get straight into the game. No delays, no hassle—just seamless setup so you can focus on what really matters: your round.

Why It’s a Game-Changer

Faster Setup: Say goodbye to time-consuming email verification. Adding players is now quicker than ever.
More Convenience: Ideal for casual rounds, corporate days, or when playing with guests who don’t have the app.
Enhanced Experience: Get your group ready to tee off without the distractions of admin work.

How to Use Guest Profiles

Open the VPAR app and start a new game.

When adding players, select Guest Profile instead of requiring an email.

Input their name, and you’re good to go!

Effortless, quick, and built for golfers who value their time—Guest Profiles feature ensure you spend less time setting up and more time enjoying the game. Upgrade to VPAR Premium and experience it for yourself today!

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

Golf Equipment: Mini Golf Drivers and High-Lofted Fairway Woods

Posted on April 23, 2025June 13, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

As golf technology evolves, the variety of golf clubs in golfers’ bags has never been greater. With more club options available and the rise of specialized fittings, players are fine-tuning their setups to match their personal swing characteristics. In 2025, one of the biggest trends in golf equipment is the growing use of mini golf drivers and high-lofted fairway woods. Both at professional and amateur levels.

Mini Drivers: Accuracy Meets Power

Mini golf drivers are becoming an increasingly popular choice for players looking for a reliable alternative off the tee. With a smaller clubhead than a traditional driver, mini golf drivers offer increased accuracy. At the same time they maintain the power and distance expected from a driver. Many golfers struggle with the inconsistency of a full-sized driver, and a 3-wood often sacrifices too much distance. Mini drivers provide the perfect middle ground. These golf clubs are particularly useful on tighter fairways, where keeping the ball in play is crucial. Pros and amateurs alike are realizing the benefits of mini drivers as a go-to fairway finder without giving up too much yardage.

The Rise of High-Lofted Fairway Woods

As mini golf drivers gain popularity, the traditional 3-wood is becoming less of a necessity. Therefore many golfers explore the benefits of higher-lofted fairway woods (like 5-woods, 7-woods, and even 9-woods).

Why Use High-Lofted Fairway Woods?

Easier to launch – The extra loft helps get the ball in the air more easily. Ideal for players with slower swing speeds or those who struggle with long irons.

More control and accuracy – Higher-lofted woods provide more backspin, helping to keep shots straighter and more predictable.

Soft landings – These golf clubs generate extra height and spin, allowing shots to land softly on greens. Perfect for long approaches.

Versatility – High-lofted fairway woods can be used from the tee, fairway, or rough, making them a great all-around club.

Who’s Using Them?

If you’re an amateur golfer wondering whether it’s worth carrying multiple fairway woods, just look at the pros. Many of the world’s best players routinely carry 7-woods and 9-woods for specific shot selections and conditions on the golf courses.

Some notable names using high-lofted woods include:

Scottie Scheffler & Xander Schauffele – Both have been seen gaming 7-woods.

Tommy Fleetwood & Dustin Johnson – Yes, even these elite ball strikers use 9-woods.

Adam Scott, Joaquin Niemann, Ludvig Åberg, & Sahith Theegala – More pros than ever are trusting 7-woods for their height and stopping power.

Final Thoughts

Trends in golf equipment are constantly evolving. And 2025 has proven to be the year where customization is king. With mini drivers offering a new level of control off the tee and high-lofted fairway woods providing versatility and forgiveness, there’s no shame in adjusting your bag setup to suit your game.

Joakim is VPAR’s Events Manager.

With golf and hospitality in his blood, growing up in the industry was inevitable. His first taste of the professional golf world came through an internship at London Golf Club, an experience that led to a six-year career at the prestigious venue.

On the course, he enjoys a steady 14.1 handicap, embracing the art of bogey golf while still chasing the dream of single figures.

After an amazing time in club operations, he made the leap into the events and tournament world with VPAR, where he has spent the past two years helping deliver over 400 golf events across the UK and Europe. With each event bringing new experiences and incredible people, the journey is just getting started—let’s see what year three has in store!