Courses of the World: In 1769, while England’s Captain James Cook was exploring the eastern coast of the North Island of New Zealand, Maori Indians attempted to kidnap his Tahitian translator. Cook promptly named the place “Cape Kidnappers”. In 2004, the Tom Doak-designed Cape Kidnappers Golf Course opened to world-wide acclaim. Located on a promontory above towering cliffs, this remote but remarkable layout features spectacular views of the Pacific. The course measures 7,130 yards from the back tees, and many of the holes are bordered by steep falloffs. For more information, please visit www.capekidnappers.com.

Dunning Golf Outerwear
Weathering the weather in complete comfort

Founded in 2001, Dunning has quickly become a world leader in golf performance outerwear. Its Thermal WindPro Rainsheld Vest ($200) and Pullover (shown, $250) combine the best characteristics of raingear with the comfort of a fleece pullover and provide complete weather protection without intensive layering. They’re stretchable, extremely breathable, and the fully-waterproof membrane will not wear- or wash-out over time. Both vest and pullover available in sizes S-3XL and in two colors. Dunning’s Pro Stretch Pant ($149) features an innovative waterproof/windproof fabric that moves with your swing. It’s quiet, durable and breathable, and it’s equipped with an elasticized waist band for a custom fit. Available in black, and in sizes S-2XL. Dunning’s Tour Beanie (shown, $29) will keep your head warm and in the game.

It’s insulated with a two-ply fabric, it’s stretchable, reversible and washable. One size fits all, and available in black or white. For more information, please call 800.955.6528 or visit www.dunninggolf.com.

Ready ... Aim ... Fire
Maxfli’s new golf ball is hot stuff

There’s a new logo on John Daly’s shirt and a new ball in his bag. The new Fire from Maxfli – launched by Big John at last year’s “Skins Game” – is designed to burn up fairways yet offer excellent feel around the greens. The key to Fire’s potential power is its HPF 1000 SpeedMantle®. SpeedMantle works with the ball’s high-energy core to elevate its Coefficient of Restitution (COR) to .815. High COR (rebound) equals blazing ball speed off flatter-faced clubs and that creates distance. But the thin-yet-durable Surlyn® cover of this three-piece ball also promotes superior feel with the midand short-irons and dime-stopping spin on the greens. Even more appealing is the fact that Fire is so affordable – an MSRP of only $20 per dozen. Increased distance, soft feel and a great price. The new Fire golf ball from Maxfli. For more information, or to find a retailer that’s “firedup”, please visit www.maxfli.com.

Best Vest
A highlight from Nike’s new line of women’s golf goods

Nike’s fall golf collection for women is comprehensive enough to warrant its own fashion show (trading runways for fairways, of course). There are pique polos, cardigans, sweaters, even a sleeveless embroidered dress made from jersey and spandex. If you’re looking for a gift for Mom, maybe something to offset those bitter morning tee times, check out the Nike Sphere thermal vest. The lightweight, full-zip vest is durable and weatherproof (a polyurethane/spandex mix), with enough of a modern silhouette to keep it ladylike. For more information or to find a Nike store near you, visit www.nikegolf.com

From Breakers To Bunkers
Oakley’s golf collection takes it fan base from the beach to the tee box

For most Oakley fans, water has nothing to do with a one-stroke penalty and sand has no relation to a wedge. The active and extreme sports brand best known to the boarding crowd — surf, snow, and skate — is now moving into the clubhouse with its new collection of golf gear. Luckily, Oakley hasn’t gone all buttoned-up on us. The fashion, including short sleeve polos, long sleeve mock turtlenecks and pants, creatively reworks golf ’s traditional patterns and colors (diamond patterns become choppy, graffiti-like patchwork; shirts hide color under the sleeves, on the collar and in the buttons). The equipment and accessories follow suit. The golf gloves have a slick Mad Max element to them, and the shoes are contemporary enough to show up in Kenneth Cole. For more information, visit www.oakley.com.