While Tim and Jennifer argue about whether new equipment improves one’s ball-striking efficiency or one’s handicap (Note: These are two different things), as an admitted golf Luddite, I feel I must get the word out to folks about a very under-rated golf experience: The Demo Day.

I recently drove up to Bolingbrook Golf Club outside Chicago for a 10-vendor Demo Day on Bolingbrook’s vast practice facility. Reps from Tommy Armour, Callaway, Wilson, Mizuno, Vulcan, Tour Edge, and several more were not only willing to show off their new gear, but also to do informal fitting sessions and even the odd mini-lesson here and there. (Note 2: Thanks to the Mizuno rep for moving me away from the ball!)

Some highlights:

Tour Edge’s new 460cc Carbon driver is a very strong, reasonably priced entry into the increasingly crowded composite-head driver market.

Tommy Armour is making a push to get it’s name back in the consumer’s vision. One of the oldest names in the game, the company is focusing on promoting itself as an established name brand with moderately-priced equipment that incorporates contemporary, if not cutting-edge, technology.

Ben Hogan, another august name in equipment, is also ramping up to keep up with technology. The new C-S3 driver with adjustable weights (Note 3: EVERYONE has adjustable weights in their drivers now.) is a very solid big stick. Loud, but solid.

Mizuno, long considered by many to be only a player’s club, actually offers something for every skill level. The company sets records weekly for the most custom-fitted sets sold in America. If you really want to make an investment in your game, you’ll get fitted from driver to putter by an experienced club-fitter. At least then you won’t be doubting your equipment AND your swing next time your game goes south.

Vulcan Golf, like Tour Edge an Illinois company, is one of those below-the-radar companies that has made a name for itself on the Long-Drive Tour. Vulcan’s Caldera Z 440 was, along with the Ben Hogan and the Tour Edge, one of the three most impressive drivers at the Demo Day. Keep an eye out for a full review of this impressive club here at TravelGolf.com.

So, does equipment help one’s game? Depends on how you define “help.” One thing is certain, though: It won’t hurt your game any to find equipment that is the right fit to your eye and swing. And one of the best places to do that is at the smorgosbord of golf: The Demo Day.