Will bifurcation benefit golf? Fully Equipped sounds off

What happens when you put three gearheads in the same room and ask them to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of golf-ball bifurcation? Things get heated.

During the latest episode of GOLF’s Fully Equipped podcast, the co-hosts sounded off on where the game could be headed after the USGA and R&A announced a proposal to introduce a Model Local Rule golf ball for “elite competitions.”

The ball would essentially reduce distance by 15-20 yards (5 percent) for tournaments — and potentially tours — who choose to adopt the ball.

That’s assuming the ball receives support from equipment manufacturers (good luck) and Tour players (also not looking good) in the next two-plus years before the rule goes into effect on January 1, 2026.

As you’d expect, there’s a lot to unpack in the USGA and R&A proposal. The Fully Equipped crew attempts to make sense of it all in a free-flowing conversation that’s informative and highly entertaining. Check out the full episode below.

Want to overhaul your bag for 2023? Find a fitting location near you at GOLF’s affiliate company True Spec Golf. For more on the latest gear news and information, check out our latest Fully Equipped podcast below.