While I was wandering through the PGA Show in 2025, my tech-loving heart couldn’t resist exploring the latest innovations the golfing world had to offer. Hailing back to my early tech days with a Zenith/Heathkit computer in the mid-1980s, these cutting-edge gadgets had me truly captivated. Here are a few that really stood out.
Rapsodo MLM Launch Monitor
Imagine a mobile launch monitor so compact, it barely needs more than a couple of yards to function effectively. That’s the MLM2Pro+ from Rapsodo. During the demo day, this sleek device was doing a great job tracking all kinds of stats, like ball speed, swing accuracy, and spin rate. It even records slow-motion visuals to dissect your swing in detail. Plus, with a premium membership, you can play on over 30,000 courses from the comfort of home, making it a great contender for an indoor simulator setup.
Ororo Heated Golf Gear
At this year’s show, Ororo came across more like a tech company than a clothing brand due to their innovative heated apparel. Designed by folks familiar with the chilly Midwestern weather, these jackets, vests, and sweatshirts are fitted with rechargeable heating elements. The smartly placed panels – in places like the front pockets and back – ensure you stay warm where it counts on those brisk golfing days.
On Pin Analytics
I stumbled upon On Pin, thanks to a meeting with an engaging Aussie who first got me to try out some unexpected cologne. On Pin uses RFID technology to keep track of players’ movements across the course, ensuring pace and gameplay flow smoothly. This smart tracking could potentially help clubs improve playing experiences, by telling who’s a slow player, where bottlenecks usually happen, and more. It’s a fascinating approach to keeping games moving efficiently.
XViC Golf Grip Tags
The XViC Aiming View is another cool bit of tech that helps golfers align their clubface more accurately. It uses grip tags as a training aid to ensure your setup and swing are aligned with the target. Giving it a try, I realized how easy it is to overestimate one’s alignment during setup.
Wayrobo
Then there’s Wayrobo, an intriguing robot that could handle the monotonous task of gathering range balls. In bigger ranges, this could be cost-effective compared to traditional methods. However, as with other automation trends, it raises the age-old question of machines replacing human jobs. Yet, the potential savings for cash-strapped ranges could be game-changing.
Other Interesting Finds
Automation seemed to be a theme, with numerous companies showcasing all-in-one golf management systems. While these operate out of sight, the potential for an improved golfing experience is huge if implemented well. I also encountered recovery aids like hyperbaric chambers and massage chairs that seem straight out of a sci-fi flick; they’d be perfect post-round to revive tired muscles.
Color Park Golf Ball Printer
Finally, I got to see a nifty little gadget from Color Park: a tabletop printer that emblazons logos onto golf balls. It’s impressively fast, taking only a few minutes to churn out a dozen personalized balls. Though I haven’t tested the durability of the prints just yet, it looks promising.
That’s a wrap on some of the standout tech I discovered at the PGA Show this year. It’s always exciting to see how innovation keeps pushing the boundaries of the sporting world, seamlessly blending tradition with technology.
