Friday Faves: Beacon Hall and Coppinwood's practice areas, Clearball Putter, True Linkswear Shoes

A look at products and places that have caught my attention:

• Interestingly, I’ve walked every round I’ve played this year with the exception of two — one at Eagles Nest and one this past week at Coppinwood (where I was trying to fly around prior to their men’s night, and I’ve been splitting back and forth between my True Linkswear shoes — sort of like a natural running shoe, but done in black leather — and my tried and tested MyJoys. I never thought I’d be one of those snagged by the so-called “alternative” shoe craze. Heck, I’ve had a pair of Ecco Street Shoes I’ve never worn — they look cool, but I’ve always torn up the turf, so I figured I needed the extra grip. Turns out that isn’t necessarily the case. I met Rob Rigg, creator of True Linkswear (and a Canadian who lives in Arizona) at the PGA Show, and have become a fan of his unique product. I believe the ones I wear retail at about $199 (called the True Stealth)– and I’ve taken to wearing them on and off the course — they are that comfortable.
• What’s in a practice area? I’ll tell you I’m in love with those at Beacon Hall and Coppinwood. Last week I played Beacon (in terrific shape as always), and used their range for a while after my game. It is perhaps a little narrow at the back end, but I love all the bent grass and the terrific short game area (with plans to improve everything further). Coppinwood’s may be the best in Canada, with separate decks depending if you want to hit it long or at target greens. A wonderful space. I also used the club’s short game area for the first time. One comment there — why all the slope around the chipping greens? I guess it is interesting, but I suspect most want a flat area to hit from. Just like most putting greens should be relatively flat, I’d say the same with short game areas.
• The Clearball Putter was in my bag for much of the first part of the season (though it came out when I started experimenting with a belly putter). The point of the Clearball is to help with alignment and I’d say the clear area at the back of the putter, along with the weight (it is a relatively heavy putter) really did help my putting. Worth checking out — I think the company, which is Canadian, is on to something.