Golfers Stick with Nike Clubs Despite Production Setback

News Summary

Despite Nike’s decision to cease production of golf clubs and balls in 2016, some professional golfers continue to use their Nike gear. Legends like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have had a lasting influence, as current players like Brooks Koepka and Tony Finau remain loyal to Nike clubs. Their dedication showcases the trust and connection athletes build with their equipment over time, proving that even older models can still be effective on the course.

Golfers Stick with Nike Clubs Despite Production Setback

It’s no secret that Nike made waves in the golf world when it decided to cease production of golf clubs and balls back in 2016. As sales in their golf department started to dwindle, the brand waved goodbye to a big chapter in its sporting story. But here’s the kicker: even years after that decision, some professional golfers haven’t let go of their beloved Nike gear! Who knew that a brand could still have such a strong grip on players despite the production halt?

Legends and Their Gear

Let’s take a trip down memory lane! Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, two of the biggest names in professional golf, were among Nike’s most prominent endorsers during the peak of its golf production. Their swanky gear sure drew eyes, and it seems their influence didn’t stop there. Today, several notable players continue to hit the greens swinging Nike clubs, keeping the spirit alive.

Current stars such as Scottie Scheffler and Tommy Fleetwood are examples of this trend. They don’t just admire Nike from afar; they’re using the gear to level up their game! It’s fascinating how even without the brand actively pumping out new equipment, old classics still find a home in the bags of these top-tier athletes.

Koepka’s Dedication to His 3-Iron

When it comes to loyal Nike users, Brooks Koepka stands out. He’s been wielding his Nike Vapor Pro 3-iron since 2016, the same year Nike decided to walk away from the manufacturing game. Remarkably, he’s only swapped out the head once since then! This trusty club has been a partner in crime for all five of Koepka’s Major victories—a true testament to its performance.

What’s even cooler is that Koepka doesn’t just rely on the original. He’s got back-up shafts and heads stashed away, ensuring he’s never left without his secret weapon when stepping onto the course. That kind of commitment is impressive!

Finau Follows Suit

And let’s not forget Tony Finau, who also carries a Nike Vapor Pro 3-iron in his bag. Those six PGA Tour victories? Yep, all accomplished with this remarkable piece of equipment. Interestingly, Finau has his own little twist on things; he’s added layers of lead tape for weighting. A personal touch like that can really make a difference!

Newer Players, Old School Tools

Moving onto the next generation, Justin Suh proves that loyalty to gear can start young. He’s been putting with his Nike Method Core putter since eighth grade, a steal at just $50. Over the years, he’s collected multiple versions of this putter—like one snagged from eBay and another specially modified from Nike.

Then there’s Paul Peterson, who has stuck with Nike Vapor Pro irons, from his 3-iron to 9-iron. He claims these clubs have improved his consistency on the course, which is no small feat in the competitive world of golf. Meanwhile, Richard Green, a player on the PGA Tour Champions, first unwrapped his Nike VR Pro blades in 2004 but only put them into play in 2019. Better late than never!

New Partnerships and Old Favorites

In a twist, even after signing with Srixon and Cleveland in 2021, Koepka still finds room in his bag for some classic Nike equipment. Same goes for Patrick Reed, who signed a deal with Nike in 2023 and returned to using Nike VR Pro clubs alongside gear from other brands. It’s a mash-up of modern sponsorship and nostalgic favorites!

Conclusion

It’s clear that while Nike may have stepped back from the manufacturing side of golf clubs and balls, its legacy lives on. The affection players have for their old Nike gear is a wonderful testament to how sometimes, newer isn’t always better. In a world where companies frequently launch cutting-edge products, this loyalty shows that it’s not just about the brand; it’s about the trust and connection players build over time with their tools on the course. Who knows? The Nike club might just be the lucky charm that takes these players to victory once again!

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Additional Resources

• Golf Monthly: Nike Golf Clubs Still Being Used on Tour
• GolfWRX: Patrick Reed Spotted with Artisan Wedges & Nike Irons
• Today’s Golfer: What’s in the Bag – Brooks Koepka
• Golf.com: Patrick Reed & Mike Taylor: Clubmaking Legends
• USA Today: 10 Golf Deals and Sales in May
• Wikipedia: Golf
• Google Search: Nike Golf Clubs
• Google Scholar: Nike Golf Clubs
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
• Google News: Nike Golf Clubs