By Betty Spak
BDA National Account Manager

BDA researched the latest product trends in golf manufacturing at the 58th PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 27-29 in Orlando, Fla.

Nearly 1,000 golf companies and brands were represented at the Orange County Convention Center, offering a preview of what’s new in golf equipment, apparel and accessories.

The show floor featured exhibits, hundreds of vendor show specials and promotions and equipment testing bays. A new Inventor’s Spotlight Pavilion showcased patented products not yet available at retail.

As the world’s largest professional golf-testing event, more than 90 companies used the event to unveil a variety of new drivers, irons, putters, fairway woods, hybrids and wedges across the 200 hitting bays, five practice greens, New Product Preview area and the vendor village.

Brands geared toward the Gen Y golfer drew big crowds, particularly Puma. Colors are brighter and belt buckles are bigger.

Headwear remains one of the most popular golf shop categories. Trends to watch include:
•    Fitted caps are the hottest item, spurred by PGA Tour players
•    Branded hats from Titleist and Nike sell well in many shops, but headwear with club logos are always popular
•    In general, female customers prefer a fashion look and caps without logos

For a golf writer’s take on the show, read Golf Digest senior travel editor Matt Ginella’s roundup here.

Check out St. Petersberg Times writer Rodney Page’s top five gadgets from the show here.