Golf Industry News - conformance test

The R&A’s ruling against any conformance test for spring-like effect in golf clubs has prompted a claim by Taylor Made that its new metal woods have gone head-to-head with the non-conforming clubs and have consistently proven to be longer and more accurate both in tests and when put in play by the world’s best players

‘The opportunity for golfers to achieve extra distance off the tee through the use of modern driver technology is not detrimental to the game,’ said Ely Callaway. ‘The opportunity for golfers to achieve extra distance off the tee through the use of modern driver technology is not detrimental to the game’

The R&A has decided that a conformance test for ‘spring-like‘ effect in golf clubs is not necessary at present. The completion of a two year independent programme has led to this decision by the R&A’s Implements and Ball Committee. This decision differs from that taken by the United States Golf Association ("USGA") in November 1998 and the R&A acknowledges that the resultant lack of uniformity in this particular aspect of equipment regulation is undesirable. Consistent with its commitment to reach independent conclusions with respect to equipment issues, the R&A will continue to consult with the USGA as appropriate