How MyGolfSpy Tests Hybrid Performance
Our tests are designed to replicate how golfers actually use their hybrid clubs on the golf course. To that end we test #3 hybrids off the tee (as an alternative to drivers and fairway woods), and #4 hybrids to a target set to an appropriate distance (long-iron replacement). While it by no means covers every situation, we believe our hybrid testing procedures provide us with a robust picture of overall hybrid club performance.
Testing Process
Hybrid testing is a two phase process. First, MyGolfSpy testers are asked to hit a series of at least 12 shots with the #3 hybrids (19°-22°). The goal is simply to hit the ball as long and straight as they possibly can.
After hitting #3 hybrids for distance, our testers are asked to hit a handful of pre-test shots with the #4 hybrids (23°-26°). These initial shots allow our testers to become more familiar with the club, and allow us to determine the appropriate distance for the target.
During the actual test, once again, testers are asked to hit a minimum of 12 shots.
For both tests, any launch monitor misreads and gross mishits (topped balls, balls hit excessively fat, and shanks) are discarded. The remaining 10 best shots are used to determine each individual tester's score for a given club.
For #3 hybrids "Best" is determined by subtracting accuracy (yards offline) from the total distance. For #4 hybrids "Best" is based on proximity to the target. Closer is better.
Tee-based (Grip and Rip) Scoring
For each tester in our test pool MyGolfSpy has determined a maximum point value. The maximum point value (MPV) is calculated based on each tester's performance with previously reviewed hybrids. To determine MPV we went back and looked at every shot each of our testers hit since we started collecting data.
For each and every #3 hybrid our testers have hit over the better part of the last 3 years we subtracted accuracy from distance. We then added up the total points for the best 10 shots (regardless of which club they hit them with).
This new number is the MPV.
Because every tester is unique, the MPV is different for all 6 of our testers. MPV values range from just over 1700 for our senior tester to just over 2500 for our biggest hitter.
While not precise, MPV represents the theoretical best score (100%) each individual tester could achieve during testing. The sum total of points for each tester is compared to their MPV value with the individual score being derived from the percentage of the MPV those points represent.
While it sounds complicated, it's actually quite simple.
Suppose a tester had an MPV of 2000. If the sum total of points for a given test (based on distance minus accuracy) equals 1800, his score for the club would be 90 since 1800 is 90% of 1000.
The average "out of 100" score for the top 5 of 6 testers will be used to determine the total #3 Hybrid Performance Score. In cases where 6 testers are not used, the lowest score is always dropped.
#3 hybrid testing from a tee accounts for 40% of the overall hybrid performance score.
Radius-Based Testing
For #4 hybrids we use a radius-based scoring system. Simply put, the closer to the target the ball finishes, the higher the point total per shot.
To provide better comparative numbers, low handicap golfers are expected to be closer to the pin than high or middle handicap golfers. The number of points we subtract (from 100) per foot from the hole is based on those expectations:
- High Handicap Golfer (16+): .238 points per foot
- Middle Handicap Golfer (8-15.9): .260 points per foot
- Low Handicap Golfer (0-7.9): .286 points per foot
The average "out of 100" score for the top 5 of 6 testers for both tee and radius-based testing will be used to determine the actual #4 hybrid performance score. When 6 testers are not used, the lowest score is always dropped.
Radius-based testing accounts for 60% of Hybrid Performance Scoring.
Performance Scoring accounts for 90% of the total hybrid score.
Subjective Scoring
The remaining 10% of the total hybrid score is based on results of our subjective surveys. Our testers are asked to rate each club in the following categories:
- Looks: 30%
- Sound and Feel: 30%
- Forgiveness: 15%
- Likelihood of Purchase: 25%
The adjusted subjective score is added to the adjusted performance score to determine the overall score for each hybrid we test.