VR_S Covert fairway wood

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Golf Monthly Senior Staff Writer Paul O'Hagan tests the new Nike VR_S Covert fairway wood

Nike VR_S Covert fairway wood
Golf Monthly Verdict

GM verdict: The Covert wood range caught our attention even before we’d tried it, thanks to a new cavity design unlike anything else on the market. As weight has been moved forward, there was a concern that the design would be difficult to launch, but this wasn’t the case. Not only did the head produce a high flight, it was also extremely forgiving, despite its traditional shape and compact appearance at address. The red crown and Nike Swoosh detailing might seem extreme at first, but it isn’t something that distracts at address. All the attributes to be a standout performer in 2013. But... it’s a shame that the standard model doesn’t incorporate the excellent adjustability from the more expensive Tour version. PGA pro verdict: Striking design and looks give this product the wow factor. At address, the crown looked appealing and traditional. The performance was great, with a fast, high launch, yet a penetrating flight. Off-centre strikes still performed well, and I particularly liked the ability to shape the ball. Fairway woods have been playing catch up with modern drivers in terms of performance in recent years, but the VR_S Covert has certainly bridged the gap. Test Team Rating: Performance: 4.5/5 Visual appeal: 4/5 Innovation: 5/5 Value: 4.5/5 Overall: 4.5/5

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Key technology:

A cavity back in the head is based on technology usually found in irons. An area is removed from the back of the head, which allows weight to be redistributed to other areas to improve forgiveness. This is achieved while maintaining a classic-shaped head at address. NexCOR face technology remains, creating more speed at impact across a wide area of the face.

Will suit: those seeking a traditional but forgiving head.

Paul joined Golf Monthly in 2006 in a junior role and has since worked as senior staff writer and now as technical editor. He writes equipment and instruction content and tests the vast majority of golf clubs that are introduced every year.