Given the current situation of isolation and quarantine as people around the world isolate in an effort to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are looking for ways to entertain ourselves and pass the time. For the avid golfer, golf simulators have revolutionized how golfers experience the game. Playing and practicing indoors is now more realistic than ever. Simulators allow for a good game of golf regardless of the weather, or even during a shelter in place. There are many options to suit all purposes and budgets.
OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator for Home with Net and Mat | Golf in A Box
The Optishot 2 is an excellent bargain for golfers. There is access to a fully simulated practice range, as well as 15 courses you can play. With a compatible Mac or Windows computer, you can easily get set up, and if you want to build a much more expensive setup including a projector, impact screen, and high-end mat.
Another great feature of the Optishot is that you can use plastic golf balls or real ones (to get that realistic “ping” from that driver), or even nothing at all. This gives golfers a lot more flexibility for different applications.
Phigolf Mobile and Home Smart Golf Game Simulator with Swing Stick – WGT Edition 2019
The PhiGolf system features a small 9-axis motion-sensing gadget that fits into the top of a swing stick, that is included in the package. The sensor can be transferred to other clubs by inserting the spike into the top of the club. The sensor itself weighs about a third of an ounce and is small enough that it is not noticeable while swinging. It transmits your swing data over to a compatible app on a smartphone via Bluetooth.
They have also now teamed up with WGT Golf (World Golf Tour) so that works with their app. WGT is the top free golf game on both iOS and Android platforms, and you can experience more than 15 championship golf courses, including St. Andrews and Pebble Beach.
Rapsodo R-Motion and The Golf Club Simulator and Swing Analyzer
The Rapsodo R-Motion is a great deal considering the swing analyze functionality that comes along with the clips included in the simulator. The clips attach to the club shafts and help the simulator track which golf club is used along with key swing data. The transmitter hooks into the clip and must be moved from club to club to calculate data and transmit it to a PC or smartphone. Four clips come with the standard package, and additional clips are available for purchase separately.
The simulator analyzes the swing path for training purposes, or the setup can allow for playing on 15 different courses or a driving range.
Zepp Golf 2 3D Swing Analyzer
Unlike the other simulators, the Zepp Golf 2 3D Swing Analyzer utilizes a glove-attached sensor that is very convenient as there is no need to remove it when changing clubs. This Zepp Golf is more durable than other simulators as the sensor stays in place most of the time. The sensor is very small and is nearly weightless, so it has no impact on the swing.
The function of the analyzer is done via the sensor collecting swing data and sending it to the mobile app, showing and translating the captured information. After downloading the app, the sensor is paired via Bluetooth and the software is compatible with both iOS and Android systems.
Blast Golf Swing Trainer
The Blast Motion sensor attaches to the club and then pairs with an app to give instant feedback about swing specifics, allowing for more effective practice. The sensor inserts into the top of the club with a special holder.
There are two grip attachments, one for regular grips and one for putter grips. A wireless charger is used to charge the sensors, with an LED light to indicate the device is charging or fully charged.
The app itself is fairly straightforward and you can customize how the metrics are presented, allowing you to see exact results while practicing. This is a great option if focusing only on one key aspect during a session is the plan. There is a function that allows recording of video with a device and it creates a slow-motion video that can be played back.
We won’t be on Coronavirus lockdown forever, but as long as you’re stuck at home you should check out one of these options to continue honing your golf game and break up some of the quarantine monotony.
