Why blame your swing when you can blame your equipment? 

The best thing about golf is that no matter how bad you play, there's always the promise that next time will be better. Especially if you can tell yourself that it's your substandard kit that's letting you down.

Here's some golf gadgets that promise to deliver:

The Problem: You're always off-target.

The Solution: Bushnell Pro 1M Rangefinder

The “1M” denotes this golf gadget’s impressive ability to offer ranging info for up to one mile away — but it’s the “PinSeeker” technology that sets this apart from the competition.

This feature, which works up to 550 yards, helps zero in on one point by shutting out background objects, making it child’s play to fix on the flag, a lip of a bunker, etc.

It also boasts wizardry to keep things working in low light, “Slope Technology” that modifies distances to allow for changes in elevation and a rainproof lens coating. After all that, you’re on your own. If your score doesn’t improve, you have no one to blame but yourself. £500 bushnellgolf.com

The Problem: You're Wild Off the Tee

The Solution: Razr X Black driver

Looking for a “daddy” club? Callaway’s Razr X Black driver ticks every box. It’s big. It’s got tech behind it, in this case “trajectory weighting” to boost distance with high launch and low spin. And the all black design looks the business on the first tee before you duck-hook it into the trees. (£230, Callaway Golf)

The Problem: You keep three-putting.

The Solution: Got The Vibe by Dave Hicks Putting

Dave Hicks Putting has developed something revolutionary: a device that goes in your putter’s shaft to reduce vibration and enlarge the club’s sweet spot — and should knock five putts off your average round. It works and — even better — complies with the rules of the game. (£55, Dave Hicks Putting)

The Problem: You've got too many problems.

The Solution: Warbird Plus golf balls

Better balls could make the difference. Surely. Ditching traditional dimples for Callaway’s patented Hex aerodynamics with reduced drag and greater control, while adding a “high-powered” rubber core, means these super-durable golf balls deliver deep distance.
(£15 for 12,  Callaway Golf)

Photographs by Studio 33