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For the most part, when manufacturers have applied moveable weight technology to golf clubs, it has meant removable weight technology. Until now.
As part of its package of new products for 2008, Mizuno has introduced an MP-600 driver with Fast Track technology that incorporates two adjustable -- but not removable -- weight plugs in the rear of the sole. By adjusting the weights on an easy-to-use track system, golfers can choose from 15 different ball flight settings to fine-tune their tee shots.
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| Mizuno MP-600 driver |
Overall, the lineup of new products introduced for this season includes MP-57 and MX-950 iron sets, an MP-T series of wedges, F-60 fairway woods and three models of premium-priced Black Carbon putters designed by Bob Bettinardi. On the women's side, there's a SORA collection that represents a full set of clubs with cart bag.
In Mizuno parlance, MP generally means game enhancement and MX stands for game improvement. The MP series of woods and irons would best be suited to more skilled players while the MX clubs target mid to higher handicap golfers.
"When you include our other iron sets, Mizuno really is looking to provide clubs for the widest range of golfers," said Iver Maple, communications manager at Mizuno USA. "From the best players in the world to the average but avid golfer."
For the better player, Mizuno continues to offer its forged MP-32, MP-60 and MP-67 irons. For game enhancement, the company also offers MX-19 and MX-25 irons. And there's a selection of well-regarded hybrids. Additionally, Mizuno has a wide selection of bags, gloves and golf apparel.
The Mizuno staff players on tour include Luke Donald, Billy Andrade, Lee Janzen, Brian Gay, Jeff Sluman and Tom Purtzer.
Here's a selected look at the latest from Mizuno.
Drivers
Both new drivers have 460cc titanium heads, and both are engineered with deep, low centers of gravity to provide high launch with low spin. They also incorporate Mizuno's CorTech face technology, which provides multiple thicknesses to optimize ball speed at impact across the face of the club.
The MP-600's Fast Track system includes two 8-gram weights that can be placed in six distinct locations along the perimeter of the sole. There's an adjustment tool and guide to help players move and lock the weights, and determine which trajectory they'd like to put in place. The 15 trajectories range from maximum draw to neutral to maximum fade.
"One of the great things about the MP-600 is its ease of use," said Dick Lyons, vice president/general manager of Mizuno's golf division. "Players will be able to take the MP-600 to the driving range and, with the use of the Fast Track tool, easily change their weight and ball flight settings."
