Great gifts for golfers

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An uncomfortable pair of shoes can turn a bad round into complete and total hell, but a comfortable shoe can make even a tough round pleasant.

Over the past few years, two shoe companies have separated themselves from the competition in terms of styling and comfort: Etonic and Ecco.

Etonic’s new ST-GT (MSRP $139) features the Ergo-Fit system, which forms itself to the shape of your foot (etonic.com). Ecco’s 2006 offerings range from the Aaron-Baddeley-hip New Casual collection (including the Casual Cool Hydromax, MSRP $150) to the Monty-esque World Class collection. For those of us somewhere in between, the New Classic Crossfire (MSRP $140) combines traditional overall styling and colors with some eye-catching leather work (eccousa.com).

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STOCKING STUFFERS AND A BUDGET BUSTER
I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again: maybe the best buy for the money in golf is the Zero Friction Golf Tee (MSRP $10 for 50). The tee features three prongs upon which the ball sits, and a biodegradable material that is (supposedly) eco-friendly. These things last /forever/, although they are a challenge to stick into hard, dry ground (zerofrictiontees.com).

As of 2004, USGA Rule Change #16-1a(i) allows golfers to remove loose impediments from greens by ANY MEANS, as long as the green is not damaged or pressed down. The Putt Pal line of retractable brushes (MSRP $13, puttpalusa.com) helps clear the path for those big putts. The Putt Pal clips onto your bag, the Pocket Pal fits in your pocket, and the new Putt Pal shaft model with retractable shaft helps you avoid bending over. I’ve used these on recently top-dressed greens, and they made a huge difference.

Last but certainly not least expensive, is The St. Andrews Grand, an enclave of 23 luxurious residences overlooking the first tee and the 18th green of the Old Course at St. Andrews. Members of the St. Andrews Grand will have virtually unlimited residence access and all the real benefits of ownership. The most exclusive residence offering-through-membership in the UK can be obtained through invitation-only to 115 families and individuals worldwide. Once renovations are complete, the St. Andrews Grand will offer amazing, untouched views of The Old Course and the sea.

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