The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals.
In every golfer’s mind, the only thing standing between them and going pro is a new driver. Or maybe it’s a more comfortable shirt. Actually, now that you mention it, it could be their workout routine….
Whatever is preventing the golfer in your life from attaining their PGA dreams, Colorado makers, teachers, and courses can help you give the gift of a sweeter swing this season. Here’s what we’re leaving under the tree for our Rory McIlroy wannabes.
Pins and Aces Swing Shift Boxer Briefs
Arvada-based Pins and Aces recently collaborated with the undercarriage experts at 2UNDR on a line of performance knickers. These skivvies ($35 or $90 for a three pack) boast all the accoutrements 2UNDR is known for (including the disturbing-to-think-about-but-nonetheless-nice-to-have No-Drip-Tip) while also showing off three of Pins & Aces’ trademark brassy prints (Graffiti Splatter, Tiger Shatter, and Palm Drip). Available online
Golfkicks Traction Kit
Long, long ago, the prevailing dress code for the course mandated a tie and jacket. Golfers eventually shed those layers of aristocratic pretension, but for some reason held onto the idea that it would be a good idea to walk 18 holes in footwear better suited to Sunday school. Denver-based Golfkicks rebels against that notion. Its Traction Kit ($37) turns any set of arch-soothing sneakers into stable golf shoes by allowing the owner to simply screw the cleats into the rubber sole. Sadly, they don’t work on stockings—though they’re a great idea for stuffing them. Available online
Rossi Golf Colorado T-Shirt
Tired of your golf-obsessed friend/partner/coworker showing up to every occasion dressed like they’re about to tee off with Tiger? This streetwear-inspired Golf Colorado T-shirt ($38) from Rossi Golf Co. allows them to proclaim their love of the game without looking like a stunt double for the ManningCast. Available online
Legacy Goods Custom Putters
This Highlands Ranch machinist switched from furniture to golf clubs and accessories because he loves the game. We’re glad he did. Legacy Goods’ custom putters (prices start at $600, though the brand offers stock options at a substantially lower price) are individual masterpieces, some featuring vibrant hues, others intricate etching, all of them reflecting the characters of their owners. (Check out Legacy’s Instagram page to get an idea of the possibilities.) The milling process for custom putters can take a few months, so plan for the holidays accordingly. Available online
Sassy Caddy Trucker Hat
A former teaching professional, Emily Haythorn found that her students were often disappointed by the boring designs on most cart bags. So, she launched Denver-based Sassy Caddy a decade ago to inject more vibrancy into the game. What started with bags has recently expanded to headgear with a series of bright Trucker hats ($28) that make it very clear what their owners are here for: “Birdies, Bogies, Brunch.” Available online
Edel Golf SMS Irons
Although it’s not one of golf’s most recognizable clubmakers, Denver-based Edel is at the forefront of one of the game’s most promising technologies. The SMS irons (starting at $1,162 for five clubs, 6-iron through pitching wedge) allow players to move built-in weights around on the head of the club, optimizing a golfer’s swing path, resulting in straighter, longer, and more consistent contact, according to the company. Available online and in various retailers
Ladies Only Golf YOLO Cashmere Hoodie
Golf fashion doesn’t always translate to the real world, where wearing visors, white belts, and plaid shorts is liable to attract mockery—and maybe even a wedgie. But the threads from this luxe Telluride brand transition seamlessly from the course to everyday life. The YOLO hoodie ($275), for example, is designed in Colorado, but woven in Los Angeles from wool sourced in Scotland (the birthplace of golf, by the way), creating a breathable, comfortable, and chic piece that’s perfect for chilly rounds in the mountains and cozy nighttime get-togethers around the fire pit. Available online
Trent Wearner Golf Lessons
New clubs and clothes are nice, but the only surefire way to improve your game is through lessons. Fortunately, Colorado is home to an impressive roster of talented coaches, including Trent Wearner, named one of Golf magazine’s top 100 teachers in America. Wearner’s academy has six locations in the metro region, offering a range of packages and prices, depending on which instructor you pick. Book online
GolfForever Swing Trainer
Chances are you’ll never hit the ball like Scottie Scheffler, who won six PGA Tour events this year and a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics. But you can train like him. Snowmass-based GolfForever has created specific workout equipment ($200) that, when paired with its fitness training app, targets the muscles you need to improve flexibility and performance. Available online
ParHopper The Game Cream Polo
Sure, Denver-based ParHopper’s polos are stretchy, moisture-wicking, and sun-protecting, but that’s not why you’re here. You’re here for the brand’s bucking of golf decorum. ParHopper’s bestseller, the Game Polo ($52), recently got a cleaner look. But don’t worry. Lined from collar to cuff in golf lingo, including the most popular four-letter word in the sport, it’s still as foul-mouthed as ever. Available online
