Anthony Kim, who returned to professional golf after a 12-year hiatus, approaches equipment testing in an old-school manner focused on feel rather than modern data. On GOLF's Fully Equipped podcast, Johnny Wunder describes how Kim evaluates gear without relying on launch monitors or numbers. This method has contributed to Kim's recent success on LIV Golf.
Anthony Kim's career in professional golf has been marked by early success, a long absence, and a recent resurgence. He won his first two PGA Tour titles in 2008, but then disappeared from the sport for 12 years before returning to compete on LIV Golf. Now 40, Kim secured his first worldwide victory since 2010 and earned back his spot on the tour over the past month-plus.
In a recent episode of GOLF's Fully Equipped podcast, co-host Johnny Wunder, who befriended Kim last year after walking a practice round with him at LIV Golf Virginia, explains Kim's unique process for testing new equipment. When Kim returned, the golf world had evolved significantly since 2008. Adjustable loft drivers were not yet available, launch monitors like Trackman and Foresight were not ubiquitous on the PGA Tour, and custom club fitting was only beginning to explore advanced optimization.
Kim remains rooted in traditional methods. 'You’re talking to a person, trying to help them and answer questions for them and they don’t know Trackman, they don’t know Foresight. They don’t even speak modern golf ball,' Wunder said. Using his industry connections, Wunder obtains items like wedges or drivers for Kim to try. Kim provides feedback centered on sensation and results. 'He would get stuff and he would test it and he would say I like it because it does this. It was all very ball-related,' Wunder explained. 'It was, ‘I swing this way and the ball goes that way.’ There’s no numbers.'
Kim has built his bag around feel, which he considers non-negotiable. This approach aligns with his progress in recent competitions. For more details, the full episode features Wunder and co-host Jake Morrow.