Review: Nike VR_S Covert Fairway Wood

The Nike VR_S Covert fairway wood, as found in the bags of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy this season - albeit in the Tour version, features a variable-thickness face for a higher spring-like effect.

The sole cavity saves weight to improve stability and keep the same compact appearance at address. And like the driver, it benefits from a stunning red crown that hides the innovation below, hence the name Covert.

Some may hate the colour choice but I'm a big fan of the red clubheadand Nike swoosh emblazoned on the bottom corner, which is by no means as off-putting as some people have mentioned to me before.

There's a relatively small head on offer that might not be right for the game improver, but it does look the part and instils plenty of 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.

In terms of feel, there's a lovely weighted MRC Kuro K 60 that mixes well with the heavy head. Most of the weight sits in the middle of the club, too. At impact, I enjoyed a solid, crushing thud when hitting one out the centre.

Performance-wise, this fairway wood ranks about average in the distance stakes, but ball striking felt particularly crisp and balls were flying high off the face - perfect for my usual low ball flight.

Dispersion was a little off the charts, however. The smaller than normal clubhead possibly had something to do with this and hence control wasn't as easy as I would have liked.

Verdict

Solid choice for the slightly better golfer craving fresh looks, high launch and added distance. You will, however, need plenty of practice to find the straight and narrow with it. At around a best price of £150, I have my doubts as to whether it's really worth the money. 

Pro Verdict (Tom Hayward - Jamega Tour)

It felt quite dead off the face at times. This club launched on a nice mid-to-high trajectory and will no doubt get you out there, but it’s less workable than others. I’m not much of a fan of the cavity look to be honest. 

You want more?

Click here for Nike VR_S Covert fairway wood owner reviews. Click this link to see how the VR_S Covert performed in our 2013 Ten of the Best fairway woods test. Got a question about the VR_S Covert? Let us know in the forum below.