The new models – GAPR LO, MID and HI – all incorporate the company’s ‘SpeedFoam’ and have already made their way into the bags of some of the world’s best players, with Tiger Woods among the players testing the new models during practice rounds at Carnoustie this week.

“More Tour players are adopting utility clubs to bridge the gap between their longest iron and shortest fairway wood. GAPR provides innovative options for players to confidently hit a specific yardage with a specific trajectory. With SpeedFoam, ‘Loft Sleeve’ and ‘Speed Pocket’ technologies, golfers have the performance and adjustability to fine-tune their long game for the right combination of distance, versatility and precision,” TaylorMade’s Senior Director Product Creation, Metalwoods Tomo Bystedt said.

As one of the early developers of hybrid clubs with its ‘Rescue’ range, TaylorMade noticed that more recent models in this category had tended towards either being designed to match an iron set, or perform as a smaller fairway wood. The combination of these design trends, and the resurgence in popularity of iron-styled utility clubs on Tour, became the inspiration for the unique GAPR range, which aims to offer players a choice of shape and performance characteristics.

In addition to TaylorMade’s adjustable loft sleeve to dial in ball flight, all three models feature an ultra-low centre of gravity (CG) for higher launch, as well as improved playability and distance. SpeedFoam, which is injected in liquid form in each head before expanding, offers more face support for increased ball speeds across a larger area, while also dampening vibrations to deliver improved sound and feel.

The GAPR LO is the smallest of the three models and is designed for stronger players. The model of choice for Woods, the LO’s CG is, as the name suggests, pushed low and forward to deliver a lower trajectory, while the mid-thin sole and driving iron shape produce increased workability and an appearance that will appeal to better players.

With a similar CG position to the LO, but slightly larger head size and higher flight, the GAPR MID will suit a more diverse range of players, while maintaining an iron-like look. The medium-wide sole width offers increased playability and forgiveness for golfers who prefer irons to hybrids.

The GAPR HI rounds out the range and according to TaylorMade will suit “the widest range of players” of the three models. The peanut-shaped rescue delivers the range’s highest ball flight through a low and back CG that also increases distance.

All GAPR models will come standard with KBS Hybrid shafts and will be available beginning August 31.

RRP: $369.

For more information, including the full range of lofts available, visit www.taylormadegolf.com.au