What a trip we’ve had this week. Vilamoura, Portugal yet again. It feels like I’ve been out here a few times this year, and honestly, I’m not complaining. This time around, we’ve been filming a comprehensive set of videos for Foremost Golf, with the ambitious target of capturing 25-30 videos showcasing all the new products launching in 2026.
These products range from fresh to market innovations to updates on existing lines that are already performing well. Over the course of the week, we’ve covered drivers, irons, wedges, golf balls, golf bags, shoes, and distance measuring devices. It’s been an intense schedule, but the variety has kept things exciting.
The Standout: Mizuno’s New Driver
If I had to pick one product that really caught my attention this week, it’s got to be the Mizuno driver. Visually, it’s absolutely fantastic, they’ve clearly put serious thought into the aesthetics. But it’s not just about looks. The new technology they’ve incorporated into this driver has been genuinely exciting to test and showcase on video. I can’t reveal specific details yet as everything is under embargo, but trust me when I say this is one to watch when it launches.
Driver Technology: Evolution Across the Board
We’ve created driver content for all the major players; Callaway, TaylorMade, Cobra, Mizuno, and Ping. Each brand is taking a slightly different approach to driver technology in 2026: Ping has introduced a new model that lines up with their G440 range, which should excite fans of that particular lineup.
Callaway seems to be telling a new story around speed, specifically how to generate more of it while maintaining control. It’s an interesting narrative that addresses what a lot of golfers are chasing. TaylorMade has taken a different route, focusing not necessarily on the head itself, but on other components within the club. It’s a clever approach that might surprise some people who always expect the headline changes to be in the club head.
Irons: Cobra Delivers on Feel
From an irons perspective, the standout for me has been Cobra. The feel is phenomenal and I say that knowing it’s positioned as a game improvement iron. Cobra has never been afraid to explore different technologies and push boundaries, but I feel like this new range really hits the sweet spot. It feels like a player’s iron but performs like a game improvement iron. That’s a difficult balance to strike, and if they’ve nailed it, this could really resonate with a huge portion of the golfing market.
The Zero Torque Putter Conversation
Zero torque has been a major talking point in putting over the last few years, and it’s remained a focal point for 2026 as well. We’ve tested new models from TaylorMade and Odyssey, among others. Do I think zero torque is the answer to everyone’s putting woes? Absolutely not. But here’s what I do appreciate about it, it’s created some fantastic stories around putters and got golfers thinking more carefully about their putting setup. It’s encouraged people to question what they’re currently using, to get out and test different options, and to be more thoughtful about this crucial part of the game.
That’s never a bad thing. The industry has certainly seen the benefit, with putter sales showing strong growth this year. For me personally, I’ve never been a fan of centre shafted putters, so zero torque probably won’t find its way into my bag. But it’s been interesting to test and understand what’s resonating with so many golfers.
Wedges: Vokey Stays the Course
Titleist Vokey has released another solid wedge offering, and I’m excited to bring that content to you. There’s are a couple of different options when it comes to lofts and grinds, nothing revolutionary, just smart refinements like adjusting centre of gravity placement. Sometimes that’s exactly what’s needed.
Footwear and Tech: The Supporting Cast
On the footwear side, we’ve covered some Under Armour and FootJoy shoes. These are primarily core line products that Foremost pros stock, offering great price points without necessarily pushing major technical innovations. Still, solid options that deserve attention. For distance measuring devices, we’ve worked with Shot Scope and Foremost. It’s been good to see updates to some products I’ve already worked with for Shot Scope, the evolution of existing technology rather than completely new launches, but still valuable for golfers looking at these devices.
The Vilamoura Experience
I have to give a shout out to Vila Sol, where we filmed the majority of this content. It’s a delightful 27 hole complex with excellent practice facilities, and it’s just a stone’s throw from the Vilamoura marina and harbour strip. The location is superb, and it’s certainly somewhere I’d recommend adding to your list if you’re planning a trip to the Algarve.
Of course, filming isn’t without its challenges. We’ve been dodging weather, working around other golfers on the course, and maintaining the energy needed to produce 26 quality videos. But we’ve worked extremely hard to get everything captured, and I’m really pleased with what we’ve achieved.
What’s Next?
All of these videos will be released throughout 2026 as the embargo dates lift and products officially launch. I’m genuinely excited to share them with you and to hear what you think about these new offerings.
If there’s one takeaway from this trip, it’s that 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for golf equipment. The technology continues to evolve, companies are telling compelling stories about their products, and there’s genuine innovation happening across categories not just incremental updates.
Stay tuned to Locker Room Golf for all the coverage as these products launch. And if you’re considering a golf trip to Portugal, seriously consider Vilamoura and Vila Sol – you won’t be disappointed.
Until next time, keep it on the short grass!
Dan Hendriksen, PGA Professional