Neil Tappin
In his current role, Neil is responsible for testing drivers and golf balls. Having been a part of the Golf Monthly team for over 15 years and playing off a handicap of 3, he has the experience to compare performance between models, brands and generations. For 2022 he thinks the main trend in drivers is: "In a word, consistency. Whilst all the brands are talking about ball speed (and the new drivers are certainly long), my biggest finding has been how much more consistent the ball flights are. Mishits don't seem to be causing the same level of drop-off or increase in the spin numbers. This means that more shots seem to be flying the way you want them to!" As far as golf balls are concerned the biggest development is in the, "three piece, non-Tour, urethane-covered section. For regular golfers, these models offer superb performance at both ends of the bag without denting your wallet quite as much as the premium Tour-played options."
Originally working with the best coaches in the UK to produce instruction content, he is now the brand's Digital Editor and covers everything from Tour player interviews to gear reviews. In his time at Golf Monthly, he has covered equipment launches that date back well over a decade. He clearly remembers the launch of the Callaway and Nike square drivers as well as the white TaylorMade driver families, such as the RocketBallz! If you take a look at the Golf Monthly YouTube channel, you'll see his equipment videos dating back over a decade! He has also conducted 'What's In The Bag' interviews with many of the game's best players like Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson and Jon Rahm. Over the years, Neil has tested a vast array of products in each category and at drastically different price-points.
Neil is currently playing: Driver: TaylorMade Stealth Plus Fairway Wood: Titleist TSi2 Hybrid: Titleist TS3 Irons (4-9): Mizuno JPX 919 Forged Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM7 46˚, 50˚, 54˚, 60˚ Putter: Odyssey Triple Track Ten Ball: Titleist Pro V1X
Latest articles by Neil Tappin
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How Often Should You Upgrade Your Driver?
In this video, Neil Tappin and Joel Tadman ask how often should you upgrade your driver?
By Neil Tappin • Published
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When To Upgrade Your Irons
There's more to consider than just price when pondering when to upgrade your irons. Neil Tappin and Joel Tadman explain more in this video and piece...
By Neil Tappin • Published
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9 Expensive Mistakes Every Golfer Needs To Avoid!
When it comes to golf, there's plenty to spend your money on. Avoid these nine common mistakes to make yours go further
By Neil Tappin • Published
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TaylorMade Stealth vs Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver: Read Our Head-To-Head Verdict
Which of these superb performing drivers is better for your game? We take a look below
By Neil Tappin • Published
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TaylorMade RBZ SpeedLite vs Strata Men's Golf Package Set
A package set is a great way to start the game of golf. Here, we take a look at two of the best on the market
By Neil Tappin • Published
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Ping G425 Max vs TaylorMade Stealth Driver: Read Our Head-To-Head Verdict
In the market for a new driver? Here, we take a look at two of the best that are available right now
By Neil Tappin • Published
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Sounder Golf Ball Review: This Affordable, Premium Ball Was Like Nothing Else I've Tested This Year
The Sounder Golf Ball brings a different style to the mid-priced, urethane-covered sector of the market
By Neil Tappin • Published
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Inesis Golf 900 Rangefinder Review
In this Inesis Golf 900 Rangefinder review, Neil Tappin compares it to one of the leading brands on the course
By Neil Tappin • Published
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Second Hand Golf Club Challenge: 3 Sets, 3 Different Price Points!
In this second hand golf club challenge, Neil Tappin tests full sets at three very different price-points
By Neil Tappin • Published