RocketBallz Stage 2

A lower, more forward CG than previous hybrids means higher launch with less spin. Highly popular Speed Pocket and thinner, faster-flexing steel face contribute to greater ball speeds.

The aggressive crown design and alignment aid is a dramatic improvement on the original RBZ as it allows you to focus in on the target line. My eyes were fixated on the left-hand side of the head at address and that meant I could align with confidence.

And just as the case with the R1, the eye-catching racing lines at the top and bottom provide the essence of power and speed, which is exactly what this club delivers.

The trailing edge sits low and close to the turf, making this hybrid exceptionally easy to launch. The bright yellow and black headcover will also look great in the bag.

True to its name, balls were rocketing off the face on centre hits. The high-strength TaylorMade RocketFuel shaft created a very thin and fast-flexing face. A slight negative for me, however, is sound at impact 

Peformance-wise, the RBZ Stage 2 hybrid delivers an effective combination of carry and distance around the 215-yard mark, but there’s also a terrific amount of forgiveness on offer as the large, deep face maintains distance on off-centre blows.

There is a definitive draw bias with this hybrid, though.

Verdict

Hype meet distance. Ball meet green. A very hot hybrid that rivals the 3-wood we struck in the last club test for distance.

Pro Verdict - PGA pro Grant Guerin

Longest in the test. I’m a big fan of the RocketBallz Stage 2 range. The high-speed face is a big plus for players with slower swing speeds. This really does live up to the extra-distance hype.

Click here to see how the RBZ Stage 2 performed in our Ten of the Best hybrid test.