Nike VR_S Covert

Brand: Nike
Hybrid: VR_S Covert
Category: Game improvement
RRP: £119
Best price: £109
Loft: 20-degree
Lie: 59-degree
Length: 40.5"
Shaft: Mitsubishi Kuro Kage

Summary: Cavity-back design distributes more weight to the perimeter of the club for added forgiveness and distance on off-centre contact. NexCOR technology extends the sweetspot to the bottom half of the face.

Appearance: We’re big fans of the red clubhead and Nike swoosh emblazoned on the bottom corner, which is by no means as off-putting as some people have mentioned before. Relatively small head might not be right for the game improver but it looks the part and instils confidence over the ball – especially knowing you’ve got the cavity back in the sole to help you get the ball in the air. The face with the NexCor design is clearly visible at address and looks like it sits in front of the hosel to fuel even more confidence. 4.5

Feel: Not the greatest sounding hybrid we’ve ever tested but we did at least receive a powerful, compressed sensation at impact. Although a relatively muted sound, there is just enough to obtain adequate feedback. 8

Performance: Obviously a much higher ball flight given we were using a 20-degree version but there was plenty of forgiveness on offer with the significant perimeter weighting. This club provided us with more directional help than added distance - a big plus on the fairway wood we tested - and a repeatable mid-high trajectory on solid shots. Workability was pretty tricky. 7.5

Verdict: Although aimed at the game improver, this is a solid hybrid for golfers of all abilities craving fresh looks, improved accuracy and high launch. Could have done with a bit more distance and the ability to shape shots. 20

Pro Verdict: Quite like this. Still not sure about the design of this club but definitely an upgrade on previous Nike hybrids in terms of overall performance and feel.

Click here to continue reading...