Gear Smart https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart en Skratch Which clubs should you be playing? Why are wedge grinds important? What the hell is Smash Factor and why does it matter? There's a lot to unpack in each of these questions. And Ryan Barath, Skratch's resident Gear Czar, has the answer. Every other week, Barath will be answering a selection of the hundreds of real reader questions he gets each week on Instagram, talking to the leading innovators in the gear space, and delivering the need-to-know information that can turn any dedicated golf fan into a bona fide gear head. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/03e7065a-2bc3-11f1-a647-b71391e38177/image/71e8d8f8c8df7e3a177fc486240332d1.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress Gear Smart https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart no episodic Skratch Which clubs should you be playing? Why are wedge grinds important? What the hell is Smash Factor and why does it matter? There's a lot to unpack in each of these questions. And Ryan Barath, Skratch's resident Gear Czar, has the answer. Every other week, Barath will be answering a selection of the hundreds of real reader questions he gets each week on Instagram, talking to the leading innovators in the gear space, and delivering the need-to-know information that can turn any dedicated golf fan into a bona fide gear head. Skratch RBC Chat and asking the question- are there too many golf clubs? We're back after an exciting week at the Masters! Ryan dives into the club changes this week at RBC Heritage, new releases and debates the question– are there just too many golf clubs on the market? Thu, 16 Apr 2026 16:58:00 -0000 full 1 37 Skratch We're back after an exciting week at the Masters! Ryan dives into the club changes this week at RBC Heritage, new releases and debates the question– are there just too many golf clubs on the market? We're back after an exciting week at the Masters!


Ryan dives into the club changes this week at RBC Heritage, new releases and debates the question– are there just too many golf clubs on the market?

]]> 3465 Talking Masters with Club Junkie's Brian Knudson! It's MASTERS week and we're talking all things gear ahead of the action at Augusta National. Ryan is joined by Golf WRX's Club Junkie, Brian Knudson, to talk gear changes to watch for, dark horse picks and the one thing holding Bryson back. Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:51:00 -0000 full 1 36 Skratch It's MASTERS week and we're talking all things gear ahead of the action at Augusta National. Ryan is joined by Golf WRX's Club Junkie, Brian Knudson, to talk gear changes to watch for, dark horse picks and the one thing holding Bryson back. It's MASTERS week and we're talking all things gear ahead of the action at Augusta National. Ryan is joined by Golf WRX's Club Junkie, Brian Knudson, to talk gear changes to watch for, dark horse picks and the one thing holding Bryson back.

]]> 2881 A deep dive into the BEST golf bags Ryan kicks off this week's episode breaking down Gary Woodland's incredible win at the Texas Children's Houston Open and why his equipment fits his game so well. Then he takes a deep dive into the best golf bags on the market, and why a "perfect" golf bag doesn't exist. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:23:00 -0000 full 1 35 Skratch Ryan kicks off this week's episode breaking down Gary Woodland's incredible win at the Texas Children's Houston Open and why his equipment fits his game so well. Then he takes a deep dive into the best golf bags on the market, and why a "perfect" golf bag doesn't exist. Ryan kicks off this week's episode breaking down Gary Woodland's incredible win at the Texas Children's Houston Open and why his equipment fits his game so well.

Then he takes a deep dive into the best golf bags on the market, and why a "perfect" golf bag doesn't exist.



]]> 2593 Titleist's surprise GTS drop and talking TaylorMade Spider success with James Holley https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Titleists-surprise-GTS-drop-and-talking-TaylorMade-Spider-success-with-James-Holley-e3h0ihk Ryan dives into a surprise Titleist announcement this past Sunday and what we know so far about their new GTS line of drivers and fairway woods. He also touches on Bryson DeChambeau's win with Bettinardi wedges, Fujikura's new blue profile and a recent Barath's Bargain Bin find. Then he's joined by TaylorMade's James Holley to talk about the success of their Spider putter, working with players like Tommy Fleetwood and more. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:47:08 -0000 full 1 36 Skratch <p>Ryan dives into a surprise Titleist announcement this past Sunday and what we know so far about their new GTS line of drivers and fairway woods. He also touches on Bryson DeChambeau&#39;s win with Bettinardi wedges, Fujikura&#39;s new blue profile and a recent Barath&#39;s Bargain Bin find.</p><p><br></p><p>Then he&#39;s joined by TaylorMade&#39;s James Holley to talk about the success of their Spider putter, working with players like Tommy Fleetwood and more.</p> Ryan dives into a surprise Titleist announcement this past Sunday and what we know so far about their new GTS line of drivers and fairway woods. He also touches on Bryson DeChambeau's win with Bettinardi wedges, Fujikura's new blue profile and a recent Barath's Bargain Bin find. Then he's joined by TaylorMade's James Holley to talk about the success of their Spider putter, working with players like Tommy Fleetwood and more. Ryan dives into a surprise Titleist announcement this past Sunday and what we know so far about their new GTS line of drivers and fairway woods. He also touches on Bryson DeChambeau's win with Bettinardi wedges, Fujikura's new blue profile and a recent Barath's Bargain Bin find.


Then he's joined by TaylorMade's James Holley to talk about the success of their Spider putter, working with players like Tommy Fleetwood and more.

]]> 3473 no Cam Young's Secret Hybrid & talking with Cleveland Tour Engineering Manager Patrick Ripp https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Cam-Youngs-Secret-Hybrid--talking-with-Cleveland-Tour-Engineering-Manager-Patrick-Ripp-e3gljfk Ryan dives into The PLAYERS Championship and the "off-menu" hybrid in Cam Young's bag that helped him win, and how it can help you too. Then he chats with Cleveland's Tour Engineering Manager Patrick Ripp about wedge design, working with players and the process of bringing products from concept to testing and retail. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:21:31 -0000 full 1 33 Skratch <p>Ryan dives into The PLAYERS Championship and the &quot;off-menu&quot; hybrid in Cam Young&#39;s bag that helped him win, and how it can help you too.</p><p><br></p><p>Then he chats with Cleveland&#39;s Tour Engineering Manager Patrick Ripp about wedge design, working with players and the process of bringing products from concept to testing and retail. </p> Ryan dives into The PLAYERS Championship and the "off-menu" hybrid in Cam Young's bag that helped him win, and how it can help you too. Then he chats with Cleveland's Tour Engineering Manager Patrick Ripp about wedge design, working with players and the process of bringing products from concept to testing and retail. Ryan dives into The PLAYERS Championship and the "off-menu" hybrid in Cam Young's bag that helped him win, and how it can help you too.


Then he chats with Cleveland's Tour Engineering Manager Patrick Ripp about wedge design, working with players and the process of bringing products from concept to testing and retail.

]]> 3926 no Gear changes from big names at THE PLAYERS https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Gear-changes-from-big-names-at-THE-PLAYERS-e3gd512 Ryan is fresh from a few days at TPC Sawgrass ahead of THE PLAYERS Championship talking about the gear changes tour pros made ahead of the tournament, visiting all the tour trucks, the surprising reason Justin Thomas put some old clubs in the bag and more. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:03:16 -0000 full 1 32 Skratch <p>Ryan is fresh from a few days at TPC Sawgrass ahead of THE PLAYERS Championship talking about the gear changes tour pros made ahead of the tournament, visiting all the tour trucks, the surprising reason Justin Thomas put some old clubs in the bag and more.</p> Ryan is fresh from a few days at TPC Sawgrass ahead of THE PLAYERS Championship talking about the gear changes tour pros made ahead of the tournament, visiting all the tour trucks, the surprising reason Justin Thomas put some old clubs in the bag and more. Ryan is fresh from a few days at TPC Sawgrass ahead of THE PLAYERS Championship talking about the gear changes tour pros made ahead of the tournament, visiting all the tour trucks, the surprising reason Justin Thomas put some old clubs in the bag and more.

]]> 2211 no Diving into Callaway Golf's latest driver face tech, Chrome Tour balls, and more with Jacob Davidson and Brian Williams https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Diving-into-Callaway-Golfs-latest-driver-face-tech--Chrome-Tour-balls--and-more-with-Jacob-Davidson-and-Brian-Williams-e3g09uf On this week's episode, Ryan sits down with Callaway Golf's Jacob Davidson, VP of Global Tours, and Brian Williams, VP of R&D to chat about driver face technology, Chrome Tour golf balls, developing protypes, and how they're leaning into equipment that can help golfers blend their bags. Ryan also dives into the announcement of McLaren Golf, including the big names from the industry that are involved. Presented by Callaway Golf. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:02:21 -0000 full 1 31 Skratch <p>On this week&#39;s episode, Ryan sits down with Callaway Golf&#39;s Jacob Davidson, VP of Global Tours, and Brian Williams, VP of R&amp;D to chat about driver face technology, Chrome Tour golf balls, developing protypes, and how they&#39;re leaning into equipment that can help golfers blend their bags.</p><p><br></p><p>Ryan also dives into the announcement of McLaren Golf, including the big names from the industry that are involved.</p><p><br></p><p>Presented by Callaway Golf.</p> On this week's episode, Ryan sits down with Callaway Golf's Jacob Davidson, VP of Global Tours, and Brian Williams, VP of R&D to chat about driver face technology, Chrome Tour golf balls, developing protypes, and how they're leaning into equipment that can help golfers blend their bags. Ryan also dives into the announcement of McLaren Golf, including the big names from the industry that are involved. Presented by Callaway Golf. On this week's episode, Ryan sits down with Callaway Golf's Jacob Davidson, VP of Global Tours, and Brian Williams, VP of R&D to chat about driver face technology, Chrome Tour golf balls, developing protypes, and how they're leaning into equipment that can help golfers blend their bags.


Ryan also dives into the announcement of McLaren Golf, including the big names from the industry that are involved.


Presented by Callaway Golf.

]]> 3204 no Talking Vokey Wedges and Design with Titleist's Kevin Tassistro https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Talking-Vokey-Wedges-and-Design-with-Titleists-Kevin-Tassistro-e3flcrp Vokey Director of Wedge Development Kevin Tassistro joins this week's episode of Gear Smart to chat about their new SM11s, the process of designing wedges, how they're constantly improving their technology and more. Ryan also talks about Jacob Bridgeman's win at the Genesis Invitational, the unique gear set up he has in his bag, and the Spider putter's hot streak on TOUR. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:59:01 -0000 full Skratch <p>Vokey Director of Wedge Development Kevin Tassistro joins this week&#39;s episode of Gear Smart to chat about their new SM11s, the process of designing wedges, how they&#39;re constantly improving their technology and more.</p><p><br></p><p>Ryan also talks about Jacob Bridgeman&#39;s win at the Genesis Invitational, the unique gear set up he has in his bag, and the Spider putter&#39;s hot streak on TOUR.</p> Vokey Director of Wedge Development Kevin Tassistro joins this week's episode of Gear Smart to chat about their new SM11s, the process of designing wedges, how they're constantly improving their technology and more. Ryan also talks about Jacob Bridgeman's win at the Genesis Invitational, the unique gear set up he has in his bag, and the Spider putter's hot streak on TOUR. Vokey Director of Wedge Development Kevin Tassistro joins this week's episode of Gear Smart to chat about their new SM11s, the process of designing wedges, how they're constantly improving their technology and more.


Ryan also talks about Jacob Bridgeman's win at the Genesis Invitational, the unique gear set up he has in his bag, and the Spider putter's hot streak on TOUR.

]]> 2961 no Collin Morikawa's winning new putter, Srixon's Blackout line and more gear changes of the week https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Collin-Morikawas-winning-new-putter--Srixons-Blackout-line-and-more-gear-changes-of-the-week-e3fann2 There were some big gear changes at Pebble Beach last week that proved successful. Ryan breaks down Collin Morikawa's winning new putter, Min Woo Lee's swap to a TRTL and more. Then he dives into the new Blackout collection from Srixon, LA Golf's direct-to-consumer rumors, and other gear news of the week. Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:07:33 -0000 full 1 29 Skratch <p>There were some big gear changes at Pebble Beach last week that proved successful. Ryan breaks down Collin Morikawa&#39;s winning new putter, Min Woo Lee&#39;s swap to a TRTL and more.</p><p>Then he dives into the new Blackout collection from Srixon, LA Golf&#39;s direct-to-consumer rumors, and other gear news of the week.</p> There were some big gear changes at Pebble Beach last week that proved successful. Ryan breaks down Collin Morikawa's winning new putter, Min Woo Lee's swap to a TRTL and more. Then he dives into the new Blackout collection from Srixon, LA Golf's direct-to-consumer rumors, and other gear news of the week. There were some big gear changes at Pebble Beach last week that proved successful. Ryan breaks down Collin Morikawa's winning new putter, Min Woo Lee's swap to a TRTL and more.

Then he dives into the new Blackout collection from Srixon, LA Golf's direct-to-consumer rumors, and other gear news of the week.

]]> 2937 no Back to blades for Rory at Pebble + More Mini drivers, and a controversial Q&A https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Back-to-blades-for-Rory-at-Pebble--More-Mini-drivers--and-a-controversial-QA-e3evgia Coming off his switch to cavity back irons, Rory McIlroy is back in blades at Pebble Beach. Ryan breaks down what it means and what the biggest differences are for Rory. Then he chats about more new mini drivers and answers a controversial Q&A from the gear Hotline. Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:41:38 -0000 full 1 28 Skratch <p>Coming off his switch to cavity back irons, Rory McIlroy is back in blades at Pebble Beach. Ryan breaks down what it means and what the biggest differences are for Rory.</p><p><br></p><p>Then he chats about more new mini drivers and answers a controversial Q&amp;A from the gear Hotline.</p> Coming off his switch to cavity back irons, Rory McIlroy is back in blades at Pebble Beach. Ryan breaks down what it means and what the biggest differences are for Rory. Then he chats about more new mini drivers and answers a controversial Q&A from the gear Hotline. Coming off his switch to cavity back irons, Rory McIlroy is back in blades at Pebble Beach. Ryan breaks down what it means and what the biggest differences are for Rory.


Then he chats about more new mini drivers and answers a controversial Q&A from the gear Hotline.

]]> 2979 no Talking club design with New Level Golf's Andy Hennis https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Talking-club-design-with-New-Level-Golfs-Andy-Hennis-e3emqgr Ryan breaks down Justin Rose's equipment free-agent win at Torrey Pines, previews gear changes ahead of WM Phoenix Open and shares more about week testing new clubs of 2026. Then he's joined by Andy Hennis of New Level Golf, to talk about club design, their player-driven design philosophy, forged wedges and more. Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:01:29 -0000 full 1 27 Skratch <p>Ryan breaks down Justin Rose&#39;s equipment free-agent win at Torrey Pines, previews gear changes ahead of WM Phoenix Open and shares more about week testing new clubs of 2026.</p><p><br></p><p>Then he&#39;s joined by Andy Hennis of New Level Golf, to talk about club design, their player-driven design philosophy, forged wedges and more.</p> Ryan breaks down Justin Rose's equipment free-agent win at Torrey Pines, previews gear changes ahead of WM Phoenix Open and shares more about week testing new clubs of 2026. Then he's joined by Andy Hennis of New Level Golf, to talk about club design, their player-driven design philosophy, forged wedges and more. Ryan breaks down Justin Rose's equipment free-agent win at Torrey Pines, previews gear changes ahead of WM Phoenix Open and shares more about week testing new clubs of 2026.


Then he's joined by Andy Hennis of New Level Golf, to talk about club design, their player-driven design philosophy, forged wedges and more.

]]> 3169 no Brooks is back, Scottie Wins again, and answering your questions on gear https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Brooks-is-back--Scottie-Wins-again--and-answering-your-questions-on-gear-e3ebu0e Ahead of Brooks Koepka =PGA TOUR return this week, Ryan breaks down what he's got in his bag–including a very old Nike club. Then Ryan chats about Scottie Scheffler's 20th PGA TOUR win, including why he keeps going back to an old reliable driver. And big news this week–TaylorMade has sued Callaway about a video using UV light to show disparities between golf balls. Ryan shares what you need to know. Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:53:04 -0000 full 1 26 Skratch <p>Ahead of Brooks Koepka =PGA TOUR return this week, Ryan breaks down what he&#39;s got in his bag–including a very old Nike club. Then Ryan chats about Scottie Scheffler&#39;s 20th PGA TOUR win, including why he keeps going back to an old reliable driver.</p><p><br></p><p>And big news this week–TaylorMade has sued Callaway about a video using UV light to show disparities between golf balls. Ryan shares what you need to know. </p> Ahead of Brooks Koepka =PGA TOUR return this week, Ryan breaks down what he's got in his bag–including a very old Nike club. Then Ryan chats about Scottie Scheffler's 20th PGA TOUR win, including why he keeps going back to an old reliable driver. And big news this week–TaylorMade has sued Callaway about a video using UV light to show disparities between golf balls. Ryan shares what you need to know. Ahead of Brooks Koepka =PGA TOUR return this week, Ryan breaks down what he's got in his bag–including a very old Nike club. Then Ryan chats about Scottie Scheffler's 20th PGA TOUR win, including why he keeps going back to an old reliable driver.


And big news this week–TaylorMade has sued Callaway about a video using UV light to show disparities between golf balls. Ryan shares what you need to know.

]]> 3169 no Speed Golf Rob on his adventure into speed golf and how it changed his game https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Speed-Golf-Rob-on-his-adventure-into-speed-golf-and-how-it-changed-his-game-e3e0k3l It's PGA Show week, so Ryan breaks down all the new gear that's dropping, including the Titleist SM11s, and chats about Chris Gotterup's win in Hawaii using the new Bridgestone ball. Then Rob Hogan aka Speed Golf Rob joins Ryan to talk about his journey into the game, trying to play professionally, the differences in walking golf and speed golf, putting together a speed golf bag, and how it changed his game forever. Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:58:22 -0000 full 1 25 Skratch <p>It&#39;s PGA Show week, so Ryan breaks down all the new gear that&#39;s dropping, including the Titleist SM11s, and chats about Chris Gotterup&#39;s win in Hawaii using the new Bridgestone ball.</p><p><br></p><p>Then Rob Hogan aka Speed Golf Rob joins Ryan to talk about his journey into the game, trying to play professionally, the differences in walking golf and speed golf, putting together a speed golf bag, and how it changed his game forever.</p><p><br></p> It's PGA Show week, so Ryan breaks down all the new gear that's dropping, including the Titleist SM11s, and chats about Chris Gotterup's win in Hawaii using the new Bridgestone ball. Then Rob Hogan aka Speed Golf Rob joins Ryan to talk about his journey into the game, trying to play professionally, the differences in walking golf and speed golf, putting together a speed golf bag, and how it changed his game forever. It's PGA Show week, so Ryan breaks down all the new gear that's dropping, including the Titleist SM11s, and chats about Chris Gotterup's win in Hawaii using the new Bridgestone ball.


Then Rob Hogan aka Speed Golf Rob joins Ryan to talk about his journey into the game, trying to play professionally, the differences in walking golf and speed golf, putting together a speed golf bag, and how it changed his game forever.


]]> 4241 no Talking Cobra OPTM, PXG Irons, Equipment Contracts, plus another mailbag question https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Talking-Cobra-OPTM--PXG-Irons--Equipment-Contracts--plus-another-mailbag-question-e3dmr33 Ryan is diving into more equipment hitting the USGA conforming list, including a new PING mini driver. Then he breaks down Cobra's new OPTM line, the PXG Gen 8 irons, and fresh equipment contracts in play at the Sony Open before answering a question from the Gear Smart Hotline. Have a question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868. Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:30:40 -0000 full 1 24 Skratch <p>Ryan is diving into more equipment hitting the USGA conforming list, including a new PING mini driver. Then he breaks down Cobra&#39;s new OPTM line, the PXG Gen 8 irons, and fresh equipment contracts in play at the Sony Open before answering a question from the Gear Smart Hotline.</p><p><br></p><p>Have a question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868.</p> Ryan is diving into more equipment hitting the USGA conforming list, including a new PING mini driver. Then he breaks down Cobra's new OPTM line, the PXG Gen 8 irons, and fresh equipment contracts in play at the Sony Open before answering a question from the Gear Smart Hotline. Have a question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868. Ryan is diving into more equipment hitting the USGA conforming list, including a new PING mini driver. Then he breaks down Cobra's new OPTM line, the PXG Gen 8 irons, and fresh equipment contracts in play at the Sony Open before answering a question from the Gear Smart Hotline.


Have a question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868.

]]> 3259 no Mizuno, TaylorMade and more new releases of 2026 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Mizuno--TaylorMade-and-more-new-releases-of-2026-e3db3rq Ryan breaks down the fresh 2026 launches of the week, including Mizuno irons, drivers, and putters, TaylorMade's Qi4D driver, and the Titleist ProV1x Left Dash. Then he brings back Ryan's bargain bin, and answers questions from the listener hot line. If you have a gear question for Ryan, leave him a message at 747-224-1868 ☎️ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:00:00 -0000 full 23 Skratch <p>Ryan breaks down the fresh 2026 launches of the week, including Mizuno irons, drivers, and putters, TaylorMade&#39;s Qi4D driver, and the Titleist ProV1x Left Dash.</p><p><br></p><p>Then he brings back Ryan&#39;s bargain bin, and answers questions from the listener hot line.</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a gear question for Ryan, leave him a message at 747-224-1868 ☎️</p><p><br></p> Ryan breaks down the fresh 2026 launches of the week, including Mizuno irons, drivers, and putters, TaylorMade's Qi4D driver, and the Titleist ProV1x Left Dash. Then he brings back Ryan's bargain bin, and answers questions from the listener hot line. If you have a gear question for Ryan, leave him a message at 747-224-1868 ☎️ Ryan breaks down the fresh 2026 launches of the week, including Mizuno irons, drivers, and putters, TaylorMade's Qi4D driver, and the Titleist ProV1x Left Dash.


Then he brings back Ryan's bargain bin, and answers questions from the listener hot line.


If you have a gear question for Ryan, leave him a message at 747-224-1868 ☎️


]]> 3348 no Q&A from the all new listener line and more to end 2025 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/QA-from-the-all-new-listener-line-and-more-to-end-2025-e3d2b2e Ryan wraps up gear news in 2025 and answers YOUR questions from our new listener hot line! Do you have a gear question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868 ☎️ Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:52:07 -0000 full 1 22 Skratch <p>Ryan wraps up gear news in 2025 and answers YOUR questions from our new listener hot line! </p><p><br></p><p>Do you have a gear question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868 ☎️</p> Ryan wraps up gear news in 2025 and answers YOUR questions from our new listener hot line! Do you have a gear question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868 ☎️ Ryan wraps up gear news in 2025 and answers YOUR questions from our new listener hot line!


Do you have a gear question for Ryan? Give him a call at 747-224-1868 ☎️

]]> 3657 no Chatting 2025 gear trends with GolfWRX Club Junkie Brian Knudson https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Chatting-2025-gear-trends-with-GolfWRX-Club-Junkie-Brian-Knudson-e3cj6pi Gear heads, rejoice! Ryan is joined this week by the Club Junkie himself, Brian Knudson of GolfWRX to chat about the year's new clubs, trends on TOUR, and more. Have a gear question for Ryan? Our Gear Smart hotline is now open! Give him a call at 747-224-1868 and he might answer your question on the next episode! Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:28:28 -0000 full 1 20 Skratch <p>Gear heads, rejoice! Ryan is joined this week by the Club Junkie himself, Brian Knudson of GolfWRX to chat about the year's new clubs, trends on TOUR, and more.</p><p><br /></p><p>Have a gear question for Ryan? Our Gear Smart hotline is now open! Give him a call at 747-224-1868 and he might answer your question on the next episode!</p> Gear heads, rejoice! Ryan is joined this week by the Club Junkie himself, Brian Knudson of GolfWRX to chat about the year's new clubs, trends on TOUR, and more. Have a gear question for Ryan? Our Gear Smart hotline is now open! Give him a call at 747-224-1868 and he might answer your question on the next episode! Gear heads, rejoice! Ryan is joined this week by the Club Junkie himself, Brian Knudson of GolfWRX to chat about the year's new clubs, trends on TOUR, and more.


Have a gear question for Ryan? Our Gear Smart hotline is now open! Give him a call at 747-224-1868 and he might answer your question on the next episode!

]]> 5265 no New drivers hit the conforming list and why club technology matters https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/New-drivers-hit-the-conforming-list-and-why-club-technology-matters-e3brbga Ryan breaks down new equipment at the Australian Open and Hero World Challenge then dives into new drivers that hit the conforming list, PXG's Lightning Series launch and explains why club technology is so important. Fri, 05 Dec 2025 17:18:30 -0000 full 1 19 Skratch <p>Ryan breaks down new equipment at the Australian Open and Hero World Challenge then dives into new drivers that hit the conforming list, PXG's Lightning Series launch and explains why club technology is so important. </p> Ryan breaks down new equipment at the Australian Open and Hero World Challenge then dives into new drivers that hit the conforming list, PXG's Lightning Series launch and explains why club technology is so important. Ryan breaks down new equipment at the Australian Open and Hero World Challenge then dives into new drivers that hit the conforming list, PXG's Lightning Series launch and explains why club technology is so important.

]]> 2926 no Discussing Gear of the Year and this week's newest releases https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Discussing-Gear-of-the-Year-and-this-weeks-newest-releases-e3b84ia We're going back-to-back weeks to talk about all the latest in golf equipment as brands are dropping gift-friendly items. Then Ryan breaks down the gear of the year and shares a fun new toy he's got in the workshop. Thu, 20 Nov 2025 17:18:58 -0000 full 1 18 Skratch <p>We're going back-to-back weeks to talk about all the latest in golf equipment as brands are dropping gift-friendly items. Then Ryan breaks down the gear of the year and shares a fun new toy he's got in the workshop.</p> We're going back-to-back weeks to talk about all the latest in golf equipment as brands are dropping gift-friendly items. Then Ryan breaks down the gear of the year and shares a fun new toy he's got in the workshop. We're going back-to-back weeks to talk about all the latest in golf equipment as brands are dropping gift-friendly items. Then Ryan breaks down the gear of the year and shares a fun new toy he's got in the workshop.

]]> 3518 no New Drivers Galore! TaylorMade and Ping debut news clubs in Abu Dhabi https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/New-Drivers-Galore--TaylorMade-and-Ping-debut-news-clubs-in-Abu-Dhabi-e3aubm3 The new 2026 releases are slowing starting to appear in the bags of players. Ryan breaks down new TaylorMade and Ping drivers spotted in Abu Dhabi and the latest in equipment drops. Thu, 13 Nov 2025 20:56:24 -0000 full 1 17 Skratch <p>The new 2026 releases are slowing starting to appear in the bags of players. Ryan breaks down new TaylorMade and Ping drivers spotted in Abu Dhabi and the latest in equipment drops.</p> The new 2026 releases are slowing starting to appear in the bags of players. Ryan breaks down new TaylorMade and Ping drivers spotted in Abu Dhabi and the latest in equipment drops. The new 2026 releases are slowing starting to appear in the bags of players. Ryan breaks down new TaylorMade and Ping drivers spotted in Abu Dhabi and the latest in equipment drops.

]]> 2505 no From new to old: this week's gear releases and breaking down a used club haul https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/From-new-to-old-this-weeks-gear-releases-and-breaking-down-a-used-club-haul-e39vag3 Ryan dives into the equipment implications of The Sentry's cancellation, the latest gear releases from this past week, and an epic haul of used clubs from his trip to the desert. Thu, 23 Oct 2025 22:04:06 -0000 full 1 16 Skratch <p>Ryan dives into the equipment implications of The Sentry's cancellation, the latest gear releases from this past week, and an epic haul of used clubs from his trip to the desert.</p> Ryan dives into the equipment implications of The Sentry's cancellation, the latest gear releases from this past week, and an epic haul of used clubs from his trip to the desert. Ryan dives into the equipment implications of The Sentry's cancellation, the latest gear releases from this past week, and an epic haul of used clubs from his trip to the desert.

]]> 3227 no Catching up on the latest gear drops and answering YOUR questions https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Catching-up-on-the-latest-gear-drops-and-answering-YOUR-questions-e39aegg Ryan dives into the details of the latest drops in golf gear and answers your questions. Fri, 10 Oct 2025 17:17:02 -0000 full 1 15 Skratch <p>Ryan dives into the details of the latest drops in golf gear and answers your questions.</p> Ryan dives into the details of the latest drops in golf gear and answers your questions. Ryan dives into the details of the latest drops in golf gear and answers your questions.

]]> 3137 no Talking Ventus, and tour product development with Fujikura's Marshall Thompson https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Talking-Ventus--and-tour-product-development-with-Fujikuras-Marshall-Thompson-e38o8qv Ryan is joined by Fujikura tour rep Marshall Thompson to chat about the Ventus line, product development, their major success this year and more. Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:56:01 -0000 full 1 14 Skratch <p>Ryan is joined by Fujikura tour rep Marshall Thompson to chat about the Ventus line, product development, their major success this year and more.</p> Ryan is joined by Fujikura tour rep Marshall Thompson to chat about the Ventus line, product development, their major success this year and more. Ryan is joined by Fujikura tour rep Marshall Thompson to chat about the Ventus line, product development, their major success this year and more.

]]> 2925 no All things gear with St Andrews' only agnostic club fitter Adam Legg https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/All-things-gear-with-St-Andrews-only-agnostic-club-fitter-Adam-Legg-e383s1e Ryan Barath is joined by St Andrew's only independent club fitter Adam Legg to talk about how he got into the industry, the expectations people should have for putter fittings, why he went from club building to fittings, and the time he almost burned down the St Andrews workshop. Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:47:06 -0000 full 1 13 Skratch <p>Ryan Barath is joined by St Andrew's only independent club fitter Adam Legg to talk about how he got into the industry, the expectations people should have for putter fittings, why he went from club building to fittings, and the time he almost burned down the St Andrews workshop.</p> Ryan Barath is joined by St Andrew's only independent club fitter Adam Legg to talk about how he got into the industry, the expectations people should have for putter fittings, why he went from club building to fittings, and the time he almost burned down the St Andrews workshop. Ryan Barath is joined by St Andrew's only independent club fitter Adam Legg to talk about how he got into the industry, the expectations people should have for putter fittings, why he went from club building to fittings, and the time he almost burned down the St Andrews workshop.

]]> 3837 no Talking Callaway Iron and Wedge development with Zack Oakley https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Talking-Callaway-Iron-and-Wedge-development-with-Zack-Oakley-e37en0n Ryan dives into Tommy Fleetwood's breakthrough PGA TOUR win at the TOUR Championship before being joined by Callaway's Zack Oakley to discuss iron and wedge development, the trend of high-lofted fairway woods and more. Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:19:13 -0000 full 1 12 Skratch <p>Ryan dives into Tommy Fleetwood&#39;s breakthrough PGA TOUR win at the TOUR Championship before being joined by Callaway&#39;s Zack Oakley to discuss iron and wedge development, the trend of high-lofted fairway woods and more. </p> Ryan dives into Tommy Fleetwood's breakthrough PGA TOUR win at the TOUR Championship before being joined by Callaway's Zack Oakley to discuss iron and wedge development, the trend of high-lofted fairway woods and more. Ryan dives into Tommy Fleetwood's breakthrough PGA TOUR win at the TOUR Championship before being joined by Callaway's Zack Oakley to discuss iron and wedge development, the trend of high-lofted fairway woods and more.

]]> 3810 no Cameron Young wins with proto ball and talking MG5 with TaylorMade’s Matt Bovee https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Cameron-Young-wins-with-proto-ball-and-talking-MG5-with-TaylorMades-Matt-Bovee-e36s7s3 Ryan Barath dives into Cameron Young's Wyndham Championship victory using a prototype Titleist ball before chatting with Matt Bovee, TaylorMade's Global Category Director of Irons, to discuss his role, the new MG5 wedges, forged vs. cast, groove design, testing with players and more. Thu, 14 Aug 2025 21:21:52 -0000 full 1 11 Skratch <p>Ryan Barath dives into Cameron Young's Wyndham Championship victory using a prototype Titleist ball before chatting with Matt Bovee, TaylorMade's Global Category Director of Irons, to discuss his role, the new MG5 wedges, forged vs. cast, groove design, testing with players and more.</p> Ryan Barath dives into Cameron Young's Wyndham Championship victory using a prototype Titleist ball before chatting with Matt Bovee, TaylorMade's Global Category Director of Irons, to discuss his role, the new MG5 wedges, forged vs. cast, groove design, testing with players and more. Ryan Barath dives into Cameron Young's Wyndham Championship victory using a prototype Titleist ball before chatting with Matt Bovee, TaylorMade's Global Category Director of Irons, to discuss his role, the new MG5 wedges, forged vs. cast, groove design, testing with players and more.

]]> 3523 no Going Deep with Titleist’s Own “Iron Man” Marni Ines https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Going-Deep-with-Titleists-Own-Iron-Man-Marni-Ines-e368li1 Ryan sits down with Titleist Director of Iron Development Marni Ines to talk about the new T-Series line, creating irons that merge technology and aesthetics, the challenges of making great clubs better, how he got into the golf industry after an engineering career, and watching Cam Davis hit a 3-iron 172 feet high in the air. Thu, 31 Jul 2025 17:16:59 -0000 full 1 10 Skratch <p>Ryan sits down with Titleist Director of Iron Development Marni Ines to talk about the new T-Series line, creating irons that merge technology and aesthetics, the challenges of making great clubs better, how he got into the golf industry after an engineering career, and watching Cam Davis hit a 3-iron 172 feet high in the air.</p> Ryan sits down with Titleist Director of Iron Development Marni Ines to talk about the new T-Series line, creating irons that merge technology and aesthetics, the challenges of making great clubs better, how he got into the golf industry after an engineering career, and watching Cam Davis hit a 3-iron 172 feet high in the air. Ryan sits down with Titleist Director of Iron Development Marni Ines to talk about the new T-Series line, creating irons that merge technology and aesthetics, the challenges of making great clubs better, how he got into the golf industry after an engineering career, and watching Cam Davis hit a 3-iron 172 feet high in the air.

]]> 2767 no Scotland Golf Trip Download and Talking TaylorMade's Grand Slam Winning Fairway Woods https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Scotland-Golf-Trip-Download-and-Talking-TaylorMades-Grand-Slam-Winning-Fairway-Woods-e35vjvr Ryan breaks down his two weeks across the pond, including his golf trip in Scotland and the Open Championship before chatting with TaylorMade Director of Product Creation, Andrew Oldknow, about the company's innovation, the Spider putter, their Grand Slam winning fairway wood and more. Thu, 24 Jul 2025 17:16:50 -0000 full 1 9 Skratch <p>Ryan breaks down his two weeks across the pond, including his golf trip in Scotland and the Open Championship before chatting with TaylorMade Director of Product Creation, Andrew Oldknow, about the company's innovation, the Spider putter, their Grand Slam winning fairway wood and more.</p> Ryan breaks down his two weeks across the pond, including his golf trip in Scotland and the Open Championship before chatting with TaylorMade Director of Product Creation, Andrew Oldknow, about the company's innovation, the Spider putter, their Grand Slam winning fairway wood and more. Ryan breaks down his two weeks across the pond, including his golf trip in Scotland and the Open Championship before chatting with TaylorMade Director of Product Creation, Andrew Oldknow, about the company's innovation, the Spider putter, their Grand Slam winning fairway wood and more.

]]> 4163 no Talking Golf Balls and the Rise of Visual technology With Callaway's Jason Finley https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Talking-Golf-Balls-and-the-Rise-of-Visual-technology-With-Callaways-Jason-Finley-e352h4q Callaway Golf Global Director Brand and Product Management of Golf Balls and Packaged Sets Jason Finley joins this week's episode to chat with Ryan about golf ball development over the years, increases in visual technology in balls and more. Thu, 03 Jul 2025 15:04:50 -0000 full 1 8 Skratch <p>Callaway Golf Global Director Brand and Product Management of Golf Balls and Packaged Sets Jason Finley joins this week's episode to chat with Ryan about golf ball development over the years, increases in visual technology in balls and more.</p> Callaway Golf Global Director Brand and Product Management of Golf Balls and Packaged Sets Jason Finley joins this week's episode to chat with Ryan about golf ball development over the years, increases in visual technology in balls and more. Callaway Golf Global Director Brand and Product Management of Golf Balls and Packaged Sets Jason Finley joins this week's episode to chat with Ryan about golf ball development over the years, increases in visual technology in balls and more.

]]> 4230 no Justice for lefty golfers, caddying at the Old Course and club building with Shane Bacon https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Justice-for-lefty-golfers--caddying-at-the-Old-Course-and-club-building-with-Shane-Bacon-e34fi9c Golf broadcaster, podcaster, and author Shane Bacon joins this week's episode of Gear Smart to chat about being a lefty, playing baseball as a righty, caddying at the Old Course for a summer after college, tinkering with clubs, old school drivers, the first big club purchase he made and more. Thu, 19 Jun 2025 15:42:22 -0000 full 1 7 Skratch <p>Golf broadcaster, podcaster, and author Shane Bacon joins this week&#39;s episode of Gear Smart to chat about being a lefty, playing baseball as a righty, caddying at the Old Course for a summer after college, tinkering with clubs, old school drivers, the first big club purchase he made and more.</p> Golf broadcaster, podcaster, and author Shane Bacon joins this week's episode of Gear Smart to chat about being a lefty, playing baseball as a righty, caddying at the Old Course for a summer after college, tinkering with clubs, old school drivers, the first big club purchase he made and more. Golf broadcaster, podcaster, and author Shane Bacon joins this week's episode of Gear Smart to chat about being a lefty, playing baseball as a righty, caddying at the Old Course for a summer after college, tinkering with clubs, old school drivers, the first big club purchase he made and more.

]]> 3704 no Listener Q&A Deep Dive and New Product Wrap Up https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Listener-QA-Deep-Dive-and-New-Product-Wrap-Up-e33re1m This week Ryan opens the show discussing the many new releases from this week in gear, including Cobra's Chipotle Collab, new Wilson Wedges, and more. Then its a deep dive on questions sent in from listeners. Thu, 05 Jun 2025 14:10:11 -0000 full 1 6 Skratch <p>This week Ryan opens the show discussing the many new releases from this week in gear, including Cobra&#39;s Chipotle Collab, new Wilson Wedges, and more. Then its a deep dive on questions sent in from listeners.</p> This week Ryan opens the show discussing the many new releases from this week in gear, including Cobra's Chipotle Collab, new Wilson Wedges, and more. Then its a deep dive on questions sent in from listeners. This week Ryan opens the show discussing the many new releases from this week in gear, including Cobra's Chipotle Collab, new Wilson Wedges, and more. Then its a deep dive on questions sent in from listeners.

]]> 3567 no Brysons Irons, New Titleist’s Debut and talking shop with Callaway's Johnny Thompson https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Brysons-Irons--New-Titleists-Debut-and-talking-shop-with-Callaways-Johnny-Thompson-e335od3 Ryan breaks down Bryson's unique irons used during the PGA Championship, dives into Titleist's sneak peek of their latest T-series irons debuting on tour this week, and chats with Callaway Tour Content Manager Johnny Thompson on all things gear. Wed, 21 May 2025 21:06:20 -0000 full 1 5 Skratch <p>Ryan breaks down Bryson's unique irons used during the PGA Championship, dives into Titleist's sneak peek of their latest T-series irons debuting on tour this week, and chats with Callaway Tour Content Manager Johnny Thompson on all things gear.</p> Ryan breaks down Bryson's unique irons used during the PGA Championship, dives into Titleist's sneak peek of their latest T-series irons debuting on tour this week, and chats with Callaway Tour Content Manager Johnny Thompson on all things gear. Ryan breaks down Bryson's unique irons used during the PGA Championship, dives into Titleist's sneak peek of their latest T-series irons debuting on tour this week, and chats with Callaway Tour Content Manager Johnny Thompson on all things gear.

]]> 5152 no Gear Smart Episode 4: Talking gear with club designer Jeff Sheets https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Gear-Smart-Episode-4-Talking-gear-with-club-designer-Jeff-Sheets-e32h5j1 R&D veteran Jeff Sheets joins Ryan Barath on this week's episode to discuss building clubs, driver designs, playing with blades and more. Thu, 08 May 2025 13:31:54 -0000 full 1 4 Skratch <p>R&amp;D veteran Jeff Sheets joins Ryan Barath on this week's episode to discuss building clubs, driver designs, playing with blades and more.</p> R&D veteran Jeff Sheets joins Ryan Barath on this week's episode to discuss building clubs, driver designs, playing with blades and more. R&D veteran Jeff Sheets joins Ryan Barath on this week's episode to discuss building clubs, driver designs, playing with blades and more.

]]> 5309 no Gear Smart Episode 3: Nico Darras of Golf Blueprint https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Gear-Smart-Episode-3-Nico-Darras-of-Golf-Blueprint-e31tps7 Nico Darras of Golf Blueprint joins Ryan on this week's episode to talk about their shared loved for gear, how he got into the game, the proper way to get fit for clubs, and how a study on golfers' central nervous systems helped him improve his players' practice and performance. Wed, 23 Apr 2025 23:07:19 -0000 full 1 3 Skratch <p>Nico Darras of Golf Blueprint joins Ryan on this week&#39;s episode to talk about their shared loved for gear, how he got into the game, the proper way to get fit for clubs, and how a study on golfers&#39; central nervous systems helped him improve his players&#39; practice and performance.</p> Nico Darras of Golf Blueprint joins Ryan on this week's episode to talk about their shared loved for gear, how he got into the game, the proper way to get fit for clubs, and how a study on golfers' central nervous systems helped him improve his players' practice and performance. Nico Darras of Golf Blueprint joins Ryan on this week's episode to talk about their shared loved for gear, how he got into the game, the proper way to get fit for clubs, and how a study on golfers' central nervous systems helped him improve his players' practice and performance.

]]> 4507 no Gear Smart Ep 2: Talking Golf Balls with Titleist R&D https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Gear-Smart-Ep-2-Talking-Golf-Balls-with-Titleist-RD-e31c4bd Ryan chats with Titleist golf ball R&D expert Courtney Engle and Golf Ball R&D Project Manager Doug Jones about ball flight, testing, spin axis, materials and more. Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:01:41 -0000 full 1 2 Skratch <p>Ryan chats with Titleist golf ball R&amp;D expert Courtney Engle and Golf Ball R&amp;D Project Manager Doug Jones about ball flight, testing, spin axis, materials and more.</p> Ryan chats with Titleist golf ball R&D expert Courtney Engle and Golf Ball R&D Project Manager Doug Jones about ball flight, testing, spin axis, materials and more. Ryan chats with Titleist golf ball R&D expert Courtney Engle and Golf Ball R&D Project Manager Doug Jones about ball flight, testing, spin axis, materials and more.

]]> 3698 no Welcome to Gear Smart https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gearsmart/episodes/Welcome-to-Gear-Smart-e30ml34 Welcome to the inaugural episode of Skratch's Gear Smart, a golf gear and equipment-focused podcast intended to help make you smarter about your equipment to help you make informed decisions on the golf course, in your next fitting, or when you're looking to fill that next spot in your bag.To kick off this new series, host Ryan Barath - Skratch's Gear Editor offers up some background on himself and what the show is all about and answers a couple of listener-submitted questions. Wed, 26 Mar 2025 14:02:47 -0000 full 1 1 Skratch <p>Welcome to the inaugural episode of Skratch's Gear Smart, a golf gear and equipment-focused podcast intended to help make you smarter about your equipment to help you make informed decisions on the golf course, in your next fitting, or when you're looking to fill that next spot in your bag.<br />To kick off this new series, host Ryan Barath - Skratch's Gear Editor offers up some background on himself and what the show is all about and answers a couple of listener-submitted questions.</p> Welcome to the inaugural episode of Skratch's Gear Smart, a golf gear and equipment-focused podcast intended to help make you smarter about your equipment to help you make informed decisions on the golf course, in your next fitting, or when you're looking to fill that next spot in your bag.To kick off this new series, host Ryan Barath - Skratch's Gear Editor offers up some background on himself and what the show is all about and answers a couple of listener-submitted questions. Welcome to the inaugural episode of Skratch's Gear Smart, a golf gear and equipment-focused podcast intended to help make you smarter about your equipment to help you make informed decisions on the golf course, in your next fitting, or when you're looking to fill that next spot in your bag.
To kick off this new series, host Ryan Barath - Skratch's Gear Editor offers up some background on himself and what the show is all about and answers a couple of listener-submitted questions.

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