Top 5 Japanese Golf Brands
Though Japan may not be one of the first places that come to mind when you think of golf, Japanese golf clubs are considered to be some of the best in the world. Backed with a long forging tradition that was once used for samurai swords, they now found golf to be an ideal market to showcase the unparalleled quality, resistance, and precision of their craft. Japanese golf clubs are traditionally made and finished by hand. They are a popular choice among professional golf players around the world. On this list, we will cover some of the most famous Japanese golf brands, each with a distinct history and values that give them that authentic Japanese feel and quality we all know and love.
1. Miura
Miura Tournament blades by Camron Flanders is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Focusing on precise details and a handcrafting process, Miura is living up to the high standard expected from a Japanese brand. This locals’ favorite brand was founded by Katsuhiro Miura, who was first introduced to the forging craft when he was 16. Miura is now recognized not only in Japan but also among high profile players in Europe and North America, they still rely on their small forge and release limited batches. Each of their irons and putters is completed by hand, and though Miura was recently bought by an investor, they are still loyal to the traditional processes which made the company famous and acclaimed around the globe.
2. Mizuno
Wakasu Golf Links, Tokyo by Yuki Shimazu is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Often mentioned side by side with Miura as Japan’s best golf brand, Mizuno was founded in 1906 and dedicated to golf in 1933. They are known around the world for their gorgeous irons, which have been used by golf icons such as Tiger Woods. Besides being known for their irons, Mizuno makes putters, woods, balls, as well as also golf apparel and lifestyle items. They are now represented online and in shops throughout Europe and North America and cater to both professional and amateur players alike.
3. ONOFF
Photo by sydney Rae on Unsplash
Opened by famous fishing and sports company Globeride in 2000, ONOFF brand follows Mizuno and Miuro when it comes to focusing on the quality of craftsmanship and materials. Though they started much later than traditional brands, they soon built their identity as a high-end producer. What sets them apart from other manufacturers is a much broader range of products, which are divided in three lines: LADY, engineered for women with lighter overall weight and more flexible shafts; AKA, a cutting edge option equipped with the latest technology and made to increase performance; and KURO, focused on professionals and designed in partnership with brand ambassadors.
4. Epon
Ryo Ishikawa by jpellgen (@1179_jp) is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Established by the renowned parent company Endo, Epon is considered to be Miura’s top rival when it comes to professional golf gear. They have already created pieces for international companies such as Nike and are frequently used by world-renowned players. They own one of the largest forging factories in the world, and they are known to produce high quality, resistant, and beautifully finished work. Their range is equipped with the latest golfing technology and is designed to be forgiving on miss-hits, and includes blades, drivers and clubs.
5. Vega
Golf at Mt Fuji by Shibuya246 is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Though not as famous around the world as some other brands on this list, Vega is well respected among experts for their beautifully crafted gear. The company was founded by a former Samurai sword maker and bought by an investor in 2012, but still relies on word of mouth rather than spending tons on marketing campaigns. As such, they come at a lower price than more popular manufacturers, but still offer the same premium feel, precision, and meticulous attention to detail that can be found only in Japanese brands.
Sources: Exact Golf, Golf Magic, Golf Monthly, Haggin Oaks, My Golf Spy
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