TaylorMade-adidas Golf's four new Rossa CGB putter models each feature what the company calls its new Anti-skid Groove System Insert (AGSI) and Center-of-Gravity-Back (CGB) technology.
The new CGB models include the Daytona 1, an L-neck blade; the Lambeau 7, a center-shafted blade; the Sebring 3, a short, slant-neck blade; and the Suzuka, a half-mallet with a double-bend shaft.
The Anti-skid Groove System Insert, according to TMaG, is characterized by a large putter face insert made of Titallium, an extremely durable seven-metal alloy that is 65 percent less dense than steel. The face of the insert is scored with 12 CNC-milled grooves.
Compared to standard iron or wedge grooves, TMaG said, AGSI grooves are 66 percent narrower and 50 percent closer together. Unlike iron grooves, which are typically empty, the company said each AGSI groove channel is filled with a soft polymer to dampen unwanted vibration at impact, contributing to better feel.
The composition and structure of the AGSI insert is specifically engineered to bring the grooves into direct and active contact with the ball during impact, even on short putts. Titallium, according to TMaG, has a lower modulus than steel, making the AGSI insert more flexible than a typical steel putter face.
Additionally, the grooves in the face serve in part to strategically soften the insert's structure. Together, TMaG said these factors make the insert deform at impact, putting the AGSI grooves into direct contact with the cover of the ball.
TMaG said the unique shape of the grooves holds the ball through impact, reducing backspin and promoting forward spin. Because the ball hits the ground with forward spin, TMaG said the degree of bounce and skid is dramatically reduced, as is the potential for the ball to rock off-line to the left or right. The result, according to TMaG, is better distance accuracy and better directional accuracy, resulting in better putting results.
Rossa's CGB technology, introduced last year, employs tungsten CG rods inserted into the rear or tungsten CG plugs inserted into the sole of the putter head, depending on the model. These rods and plugs, TMaG said, concentrate weight in the heel and toe and help to shift the putter head's CG downward and deep into the back, along with increasing moment of inertia.
This low, deep-back position, according to TMaG, works in conjunction with the AGSI to deliver the type of optimum, medium-height trajectory that works with the forward spin promoted by the face insert to reduce bounce and skid.
The new line of Rossa CGB putters will be available at retail starting on June 15 and will carry a suggested retail price of $158 each.
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