- 1 1. PRGR LS Fairway Wood
- 2 2. Detailed Specifications
- 3 3. Key Technologies
- 4 4. Actual Reviews & Feedback
- 5 5. Pros and Cons Analysis
- 6 6. Suitable and Unsuitable Golfers
- 7 7. Performance Based on Head Speed
- 8 8. Comparison with Competitors
- 9 9. Purchasing Considerations
- 10 10. Maintenance and Storage
- 11 11. After-Sales Support
- 12 12. Conclusion
Test drive the Japanese golf club PRGR LS fairway wood
Today, I tested this golf club.
The club I tested is the PRGR LS Fairway Wood, 3-wood version.
The shaft is **SPEEDER NX FOR PRGR**.
The loft is 16.5 degrees, the club length is 42.5 inches, the shaft flex is SR, shaft weight is 45g, torque is 5.9, balance is D0, and the total club weight is 305g.
This is a new model of PRGR’s fairway wood.
Although it’s new, it closely resembles previous models, so I almost didn’t notice it was a new release.
Many manufacturers change designs significantly to make new models stand out, but PRGR’s decision to keep the design almost identical likely indicates that the shape and design are so well-executed that there’s no need for drastic changes.
PRGR clubs, from drivers to putters, are known for their high quality. They have a strong reputation for producing excellent wood clubs such as drivers and utilities.
This fairway wood stands out with its **thinness**.
Though there are various innovative aspects, the design remains relatively simple, which I appreciate.
The sole shape is particularly important for fairway woods, which are often struck directly. It’s easy to see that this model shares similarities with the RS Fairway Wood and LS Fairway Wood, which I have tested before. It could be seen as a minor upgrade, but it seems to be a highly refined one.
The sole caught my attention here.
I wonder if something is embedded inside?
The large grooves in the sole have now become a signature feature.
Although large grooves like this are rare, PRGR’s choice to maintain them shows that they have a compelling reason to do so.
It’s clear that PRGR excels at making fairway woods, and their designs are thoughtful and impactful, maintaining their high standards.
The grooves are both wide and deep.
While I initially wondered about the structural integrity of such deep grooves, previous models have not encountered any issues, so I assume this design is safe.
The neck is standard and very simple.
There is no adjustment system installed.
It seems that the focus was more on the club (head) balance rather than including an adjustment system.
The face design is very clean and conveys a sense of good rebound.
There’s an engraving of “CNC MILLED” on the toe side.
The shallow shape is familiar and appears unchanged from past models.
I prefer heads with more thickness for a sense of security, but most manufacturers today use shallow heads.
The face also looks great.
There are no noticeable quirks, and I have no particular complaints.
The grip feels great.
There isn’t anything particularly innovative about it, but it’s a solid, dependable grip.
When I took a few practice swings, the feel was light, and with the SR flex, the shaft flexed a lot.
It felt quite responsive, so I focused on timing and tried to keep my swings a bit more compact.
Setting up with the ball felt quite natural.
It wasn’t breathtaking, but I could align easily, and it gave an impression of a club that would help the ball launch easily with a friendly, rounded face.
Test Swing Results:
The **feel** at impact was soft, which I liked.
It was similar to past models.
The **sound** was a slightly high-pitched metallic sound.
I’ve heard this sound many times before, and it felt solid at impact without any wobble.
The ball easily got airborne.
Despite testing the 3-wood, I was able to launch the ball even with direct strikes.
It felt better to swing with a bit less speed, as going too fast seemed to cause some inconsistency. I focused on maintaining accuracy with a moderate swing, which felt just right.
The head, apart from the shaft, is quite forgiving and does not feel harsh.
This easy-going feel is something I’ve experienced in previous models as well.
The **distance performance** is high, but it’s more of a smooth, steady flight than a sharply aggressive one.
I didn’t feel a significant improvement over previous models after hitting several balls.
As for **control**, it’s not as high, and the ball has more of a **straight trajectory**.
Although it doesn’t curve drastically, I found it easy to produce a hook if I wasn’t careful.
It seems to suit players who prefer a fade due to its excellent forgiveness.
Post-Test Thoughts:
I didn’t get the chance for a full swing, but I would have liked to try it.
I focused on accuracy during my test swings and didn’t feel as satisfied with the results.
I’m curious to try it with a different shaft, something with a bit more of a robust feel.
The club has a very friendly personality, which makes it easy to recommend not only to male golfers but also to female golfers who might find the current specs very suitable.
It’s an easy-to-launch fairway wood with great feel and sound.
There’s no harshness that you’d typically find in a 3-wood.
Although I was trying to identify where it had improved, I couldn’t pinpoint any changes by the end of the test.
If I get a chance, I’d like to do a comparison test to better understand any subtle differences.
I’ll continue to keep an eye on PRGR’s developments.
Ratings:
Ease of Setup: ☆☆☆☆
Feel: ☆☆☆☆
Sound: ☆☆☆☆
Launchability: ☆☆☆☆☆
Stability: ☆☆☆☆
Distance: ☆☆☆☆
Control: ☆☆☆
Based on a 100-point scale:
☆1 = 0–20 points
☆2 = 21–40 points
☆3 = 41–60 points
☆4 = 61–90 points
☆5 = 91–100 points
*Addition: Introduction to this club (I researched this club after writing this article)
PRGR LS Fairway Woods: A complete guide to performance, reviews, and suitable golfers
From the manufacturer’s official page
1. PRGR LS Fairway Wood
The PRGR LS Fairway Wood is a game-focused club released by PRGR in 2023. It is specifically designed for golfers with a head speed around 40 m/s, offering a combination of ease of use and emphasis on carry. Building on the “RS” series’ philosophy, the LS fairway wood is engineered to provide more control and easier playability. It is ideal for golfers who value stable flight and consistent distance, particularly those looking for a club to help make strategic second shots with reliable accuracy.
Development Concept
The design focuses on tailoring optimal launch conditions to different head speeds. The club is built for high launch angles and appropriate spin to maximize carry distance, making it easier to target greens. The “Simple and Easy Golf” concept ensures the LS Driver’s performance seamlessly extends into the fairway wood.
2. Detailed Specifications
Basic Specifications:
Models: 3W & 5W
Loft Angles: 3W (16.5°), 5W (20°)
Lie Angle: 59°
Head Volume: 3W (189cm³), 5W (183cm³)
Club Length: 42.5 inches (Men’s, R2 model is 42 inches)
Price: ¥58,300 (including tax), ¥53,000 (excluding tax)
Shaft Options & Detailed Specs:
S (M-43): Total Weight: 311g, Balance: D-1, Shaft Weight: 45g, Torque: 5.7
SR (M-40): Total Weight: 305g, Balance: D-0, Shaft Weight: 45g, Torque: 5.9
R (M-37): Total Weight: 304g, Balance: D-0, Shaft Weight: 44g, Torque: 6.2
R2 (M-35): Total Weight: 303g, Balance: C-7.5, Shaft Weight: 42g, Torque: 6.8
Materials:
Face: Maraging Steel (CUSTOM455) CNC Processed
Body: Maraging Steel (AM355P) Precision Cast
Crown: Carbon (CFRP) Press-Formed
Grip: Weight 43g, M60 Diameter, Backline Included
3. Key Technologies
Slash Groove:
The precision-cut grooves on the face ensure a high initial velocity that is close to the limits set by golf rules.
CNC Milled Face:
The CNC process improves the precision of the face, resulting in stable high ball speeds.
High-Low Launch Design:
A low center of gravity and high loft angle allow for high launches, making the club easier to target with higher trajectories.
V-Shaped Sole Design:
The sole design ensures that the club is easy to hit from various lies, improving turf interaction and ease of use.
4. Actual Reviews & Feedback
Customer Reviews:
(3W, SR) “For golfers looking to use a fairway wood without stress, this club is a must-try. While it doesn’t have the longest carry compared to other brands, it offers excellent average distance and direction when swung lightly. The 16.5-degree loft makes it easy to get the ball in the air without trying too hard. The shorter length also makes it more forgiving.”
(3W, S) “I tested this club, and the face appeared slightly closed, giving the impression it would go right, but it actually tends to draw left. The shorter length and loft make it easy to hit. The feel is firm and springy. This club is for players who don’t need to hit the longest drives but want reliable results.”
5. Pros and Cons Analysis
Pros:
Excellent direction control: Great flight consistency even with lighter swings.
Easy to launch: The 16.5-degree loft makes it easier to get the ball in the air.
Easy-to-handle length: The 42.5-inch length makes the club forgiving and easier to strike.
Stable distance: Prioritizes consistent distance over maximum carry.
Versatility from various lies: The V-shaped sole ensures easy play from different lies.
Cons:
Maximum distance: May not deliver the same long-distance hits as other brands.
Face angle: Some units may have a tendency to draw left due to slight individual differences.
Feel: The firmer, springy feel may not suit every golfer.
Price: At ¥58,300, it’s on the higher end for fairway woods.
6. Suitable and Unsuitable Golfers
Ideal for:
Golfers with a head speed around 40 m/s
Golfers who prioritize stability and directional control over max distance
Mid-level golfers or those looking for consistent results on second shots
Golfers who need a forgiving club for easy fairway wood play
Not Ideal for:
Golfers prioritizing maximum distance
Those looking for extremely specific ball flights (like low trajectory)
Beginners or golfers with inconsistent head speeds
7. Performance Based on Head Speed
For golfers with a head speed of around 40 m/s: The club is optimized for a high launch angle, appropriate spin, and carry distance.
For golfers with a head speed below 35 m/s: The lighter R2 model with higher torque will better suit these players.
For golfers with a head speed above 45 m/s: The heavier S shaft model will be more appropriate.
8. Comparison with Competitors
PRGR LS Fairway Wood is designed with similar principles to the RS series but is more user-friendly, emphasizing ease of play and consistency. Its design targets a specific head speed range, making it a unique offering in its class.
9. Purchasing Considerations
Before purchasing, it’s crucial to understand your head speed and choose the appropriate shaft for your swing speed. The club is priced at ¥58,300, so budget considerations are important.
10. Maintenance and Storage
Routine cleaning is essential for maintaining the face and grooves. Store the club in a place with stable temperature and away from direct sunlight to preserve the carbon crown.
11. After-Sales Support
The LS Fairway Wood is SLE-compliant and officially certified, with after-sales support available through PRGR’s official site and nationwide dealers.
12. Conclusion
The PRGR LS Fairway Wood is perfect for golfers looking for consistent performance, especially those with a head speed around 40 m/s. With a focus on stable distance and directional control, it’s an excellent choice for second shots and fairway wood stability. However, it may not satisfy those looking for the longest possible distance.
