Hot List 2009, Golf equipment ratings, drivers, irons, drivers, golf balls, hybrids, putters, faiway woods, The Awards, The Terms, Golf Balls, Hot List 2009 rankings, performance, innovation, feel, demand: Golf Digest Magazine

Maybe you want well-designed straps that hug your shoulders, or a top that prevents clubs from clanging as you walk down the fairway. Our Hot List judges have narrowed the search and selected 21 of the best lightweight carry bags and "do-it-all" cart bags.

THE PROCESS

See how we selected the most significant clubs in the game right now.
• Rating System

THE TECHNOLOGY

Look back at the decade of innovation that has brought us drivers in every shape and size.

GOLF BALLS

Choosing the right ball is just as important as buying the right clubs.
<$22 | $22-35 | $40+

DRIVERS

View our selection of gold and silver medalists:
• Drivers over $350
• Drivers under $350

FAIRWAY WOODS

No club is more prone to changes in shape and size. Here are our selection of gold and silver medalists.

HYBRIDS

This is the most versatile club in your bag. View our selection of gold and silver medalists.

IRONS

We've broken irons into three categories geared to your game: Game Improvement | Super Game Improvement | Players Irons

WEDGES

There isn't a club causing more consternation than the sharp-grooved wedge. The latest models of wedges offer something for everyone.

PUTTERS

View our selection of gold and silver medalists:
• Blade Putters $200+
• Blade Putters <$200
• Mallet Putters
• Mid-Mallet Putters

Virtual Guide

Hot List Helper

Are you looking for a traditional or geometric club head shape? Need a club with an anti-slice option? Or an adjustable fitting system? Our exclusive virtual guide with personalized advice from our Equipment Editors Mike Stachura and Stina Sternberg will help you find the perfect driver for your game.

BUILD YOUR OWN DREAM BAG USING OUR INTERACTIVE "DRAG AND DROP" TOOL.

Build Your Own Dream Bag

What better place to start the New Year than the 2009 Hot List. Golf Digest's annual equipment review and analysis has yielded 116 exceptional products in 12 categories — the most exhaustive review ever of the game's top clubs. Take a look at the categories below to see the judges' choices.
• INTERACTIVE HOT LIST: Build your own bag using our "Drag And Drop" Tool
• PHOTOS (CATEGORY LEADERS):Performance | Innovation | Look/Sound/Feel | Demand
• BEST VALUES: How about a full set for less than $1,000? | Women's Clubs
• VIDEOS: Intro to the Hot List | The Process | The Categories | The Coolest Job
• HOT LIST LESSON PLAN: Improve your game | FEEDBACK: E-mail the Judges
• SWEEPSTAKES: Enter for a chance to win your dream golf bag!