Is it really a coincidence that the two most improved players on the US tour last year, John Huston and Glen Day, just happened to be converts to Wilson Fat Shaft technology? While rivals Taylor Made and Lynx were busy making 'Bubbles' and 'Balloons' at opposite ends of the shaft, the Wilson scientists opted for a thicker section along the entire length.

By boosting the diameter to 0.45 inches (almost 25% wider than a standard shaft), Wilson claims a shaft with less of the potentially damaging torque that can jeopardise a square clubface at impact.

A steel version of the orginal graphite design is now offered in Wilson's sleek, forged RM irons, named after ace designer Robert Mandrella and a version of the head played by Vijay Singh to victory at last August's USPGA championship.

Also in the series are three wedges: 52-degree Gap, 56-degree Sand and 60-degree Lobber. Price: £549 (nine irons) Contact: 01294 316200

Back to Part Two of Great Gear for the New Season