Titleist reveal 818 hybrids
Two new hybrids share technology with driver for extra distance and accuracy
Titleist have revealed two new 818 hybrids which incorporate “driver technology” for more distance and accuracy.
The 818H1 and 818H2 have numerous crossover technologies seen in Titleist’s 917 driver; Active Recoil Channel 2.0, SureFit CG Weighs and Surefit Hosel.
“We define hybrids as scoring clubs, not rescue clubs. That’s how our R&D group has been designing these clubs for years, and it’s the reason Titleist has become the clear #1 hybrid on the PGA Tour,” said Josh Talge, VP of marketing, Titleist Golf Clubs.
“The amount of technology we’ve engineered into 818 is unprecedented for the hybrid category, and will give golfers at every level the confidence to take dead aim from distances they never have before.”
Price: £225
Availablility: 28 September
Active Recoil Channel
- Generates faster ball speeds across the face through its improved channel design and flexing polymer insert.
SureFit CG technology
-In combination with Titleist’s SureFit Hosel, provides precision fitting and maximum shot-shaping. The proprietary 16-setting SureFit Hosel allows golfers to set loft and lie independently to optimise ball flight and turf interaction for consistent centre-face contact, maximum distance, and improved shot control. SureFit CG provides precise customisation through a highly efficient interchangeable weight system, optimising spin for a more consistent trajectory and tighter shot dispersion.
High MOI
- With a 10 percent higher MOI than the prior generation – increases speed across the face for more forgiveness on off-centre hits, while the optimally positioned, deep centre of gravity increases launch and trajectory for more shot-stopping control.
Choices for greater fitting flexibility and precise flight and shot shape optimisation. 818H1 has a confidence-inspiring pear profile (larger than 818H2, but sleeker than 816H1) with a slight face progression for golfers that need enhanced launch and prefer a fairway metal look. 818H2 has a smaller profile, redesigned with a squarer toe, delivering launch and trajectory control with a slight offset for more aggressive players that engage the turf.
818 H1 - Is designed for golfers who have a sweeping delivery to the ball and prefer the look of a fairway wood. The larger profile provides high launch, effortless distance and tremendous forgiveness. Available in 19o, 21o, 23o, 25o and 27o lofts.
818 H2- Is designed for golfers who have a steeper delivery to the ball and prefer the look of an iron. The compact, square-toed profile delivers penetrating launch with precise distance and iron-like control. Available in 17o, 19o, 21o and 23 lofts.
Stephanie Luttrell, director of Titleist R&D metalwoods, said: “When building scoring clubs like 818H1 and 818H2, you have to think about distance in terms of playable distance. Playable distance is easy distance that launches high and lands soft. Improving that performance requires faster ball speeds, higher launch and a higher peak height of shot, which we achieved through our redesigned Active Recoil Channel 2.0 and improved MOI properties.
"Playable distance is also consistent distance that you can control. Having seen just how powerful the combination of SureFit CG Weights and SureFit Hosel was for players being fit into our 917 drivers and fairways, we knew that technology would be especially meaningful in shot making clubs like 818 hybrids, allowing players to optimise their ball flight and produce more consistent shot patterns. We’ve also made 818 hybrids even more forgiving, which is crucial to maintaining that playability on off-centre shots.”
The 818’s stock shaft matrix allows for premium aftermarket options from Mitsubishi, Aldila and Project X. Titleist are the first brand offer each of these shafts: Mitsubishi Tensei Pro Red 50hh HY (high launch; L flex)
• Mitsubishi Tensei Pro Red 60HY (high launch; A, R, S)
• Mitsubishi Tensei Pro Blue 70HY (mid launch; R, S)
• Mitsubishi Tensei Pro White 90HY (low/mid launch; S, X)
• Aldila Rogue M*AX 85H (low/mid launch; R, S)
• Project X Even Flow Blue 85HYB (mid/high launch; S)
Custom shafts available at no upcharge.
Jordan Spieth used the 818H2 at the US PGA Championship, as he was looking for a club that would launch higher and stop on the greens, and perform out of the rough. Russell Henley, Bernd Wiesberger and Andrew Johnston all put the clubs into the bag immediately.
Free Fitting: From the middle of September golfers can experience the performance of Titleist 818 hybrids by attending a Titleist Fitting Event (including Titleist Thursdays), being held at hundreds of locations across the UK & Ireland. To find an event, golfers can visit: www.Titleist.co.uk/818
