It is officially Hot Launch time. Tour Edge has done a tremendous job in finding a pattern to their releases that not only keeps them in discussion, but allows both the Hot Launch and Exotics lines to work together in ensuring there is something for everyone. With the 725 Exotics release coming in this past fall, the time for 525 in Hot Launch is now upon us.
The Hot Launch Progression
For Tour Edge, this line has always intended to be the game-improvement based release that is focused on distance and forgiveness above all else. In recent years, it has always featured E (Extreme) and C (Competition) options, but this year that is going to change. You see, the fact that “C” existed in both Hot Launch and Exotics, created some unnecessary blurring. The C clubs here encroached on what the Exotics E’s were trying to do, so it needed to be simplified.
Moving forward, Hot Launch will still consist of E designs, but it will now be joined by what Tour Edge calls the “X-range”. To make it more simple, E is now the game improvement option which is based upon trickle down Exotics technologies while X is super game-improvement whose primary goal is anti-slice offset with super low CG’s for maximum playability.
“This marks a new era for Hot Launch, with our best-feeling and best-looking performance-enhancement clubs we’ve ever produced,” said David Glod, Founder and CEO of Tour Edge. “The X-range offers golfers a new ‘X-factor’ to boost their game with cutting-edge SGI innovations, while the E-range is the highest-level of GI with a perfect balance of distance and forgiveness in more traditional shapes.
As important as the tech is, there is also another emphasis for Tour Edge with this new generation of Hot Launch. The brand is continuing its belief that custom fitting matters, especially in the more game-improvement segment of golf clubs. So, the 525 Series will be available for custom fitting at over 1,500 locations. As if that weren’t enough though, they are also continuing their 48-hour expedited shipping program for custom orders within the Continental United States.
While the Hot Launch 525 Series will consist of an entire lineup which THP will be bringing you all of the information on, this specific release article focuses on the drivers.
Hot Launch 525 Series Drivers
It only makes sense to talk about the new kid on the block first. Yes, Tour Edge and their Hot Launch lineup has gone “X”. The X525 driver is a 460cc design which is all about maximizing forgiveness while adding playability in terms of launch and direction. This is a Titanium driver head which not only uses back-heel placed 10g weight but also has an offset hosel to maximize the anti-slice intent and simultaneously increase launch. Not to mention, Tour Edge is touting some serious lateral MOI in the X525 driver.
On the other side is the E525 driver. Here, the singular rear weight has been placed dead center and there is no offset to the bonded hosel. The clubhead uses a 360-degree Cup Face which is implemented into the 6-4 Titanium 460cc head to allow for more flex on all strikes to increase speed. Additionally, it also has a “Center Sole Rail Design” which extends from leading to trail edge in the dead center of the sole to push the CG as low as possible. Both of these design traits are unique to the E525 and look to optimize speed, spin, and power.
The two drivers do also share some tech though. Both clubheads are implementing a version of the original Ridgeback Technology which Exotics used for many cycles as well as unique variations of Diamond Face VFT. Likewise, they also feature the UST Mamiya Helium Nanocore (L, A, R, S) shaft to tie things together, after all, the target audience for Hot Launch is all about maximizing speed and playability.
Due to the bonded hosels, there will be three lofts available for each driver. The E525 can be ordered in 9.0, 10.5, and 12.0 while the X525 driver is offered in 10.5, 12.0, as well as a very cool HL option that is 15.0 degrees.
The Details
Tour Edge’s newest Hot Launch lineup will be coming to retail on 3/1/25. Both driver models will be priced at an incredibly enticing $249.99.
What do you think about this next evolution of Hot Launch? Is it a logical move that cleans things up a bit? Jump into the conversation and let us know!
For more information on any of the items here, check out their website at www.touredge.com.
