While the majority of package sets are aimed at beginner golfers, I immediately got the sense that the Stix Jack Nicklaus essentials set was a little different. While it would do a very good job in the hands of a newcomer to the game, the experience I had when testing it suggested that improving golfers could also reap the benefits.
The fresh, simplistic branding of both Stix and the famous Golden Bear logo on the clubs and on the side of the lightweight stand bag really enhanced the initial appeal. The bag that is included with the best package sets is often under appreciated, but the color scheme and overall design hit all the right notes for me.
Jack Nicklaus is one of, if not, the greatest golfer to have ever played the game, so it makes complete sense that the Stix x Jack Nicklaus collab is one of quality. While some may way want the loud, eccentric design that can be found on most package sets, this marriage will please the eye of those wanting the ease of purchasing a full set of clubs and bag together, without it necessarily standing out as a set aimed at beginners.
The sock-style headcovers look great and the combination of the matte and gloss finish on the driver head looks very cool. I haven’t seen many drivers with a singular dot alignment aid on the crown, but the bright yellow one on this head stands out well and helped me center the ball at address. I saw a generous launch from the 10.5°, 460cc driver head, and without over-spinning the golf ball, it produced a solid distance when struck properly from the tee. The mishits were punished at little more than on the most forgiving drivers, but I thought the overall performance was outstanding for a package set driver.
The irons were where I thought this set excelled and separated itself from other package sets on the market. The thinner top line will appeal more towards an intermediate golfer rather than someone needing the extra forgiveness and confidence-inspiring look a thicker, larger head would offer. While they have a cavity back design, these irons launched a little lower than some of the most forgiving irons on the market. But they felt surprisingly soft from the face, offering good control and a repeatable flight. The simple Jack Nicklaus signature on the rear of the clubs is a nice nod to the 18-time major champion while maintaining a premium look.
The 54° wedge also comes in a more blade-style design, similar to that of some of the best wedges on the market and like the irons, the bottom groove is filled with a yellow paint, which I thought helped square the face up to my target at address more easily. The spin and control on offer was generous and the feel and feedback impressive, but as is the case with the irons, this wedge won’t offer the assistance that some of the most forgiving wedges will, or wedges that come in other package sets.
As much as I loved the majority of this package set, the putter was a little disappointing. The small mid-mallet is an unusual shape and didn’t suit my eye when down behind the ball. The firm feel will marry well with a soft ball and there's a good amount of aim assistance on offer. There was also room for improvement on the very basic putter headcover, although some package sets don't even include a putter headcover, so at least there is something to stop scuffs and scratches appearing.
If you’re a beginner golfer wanting a set that will see you through a good portion of your golfing development or a mid-handicapper simply looking for an easy way to upgrade your full bag, the Stix Jack Nicklaus package set is one to consider. Given the added longevity it provides, the value for money has been significantly enhanced. At $699/£610 I feel this package set offers superb value for money, offering a premium look and ample performance for a price much lower than many of its golf club set competitors.
