"Testers were particularly attracted to the middle-positioned sweet spot"
RRP: £250, Edges: 35mm, Weight: 2lb 1oz
From first look to winning stroke, the TC500 Max delivers in every aspect. Aesthetically pleasing thanks to its baby blue grip, it caught the attention before a single blow had been landed in anger.
Testers were particularly attracted to the middle-positioned sweet spot which ensured it provided great power and control.
Some had reservations about the size of the sweet spot, but for those accurate strikers, it does a fine job.
There was also admiration for the even pickup and weight which allows for back-foot strokes and attacking the ball on the rise.
And if you need any more convincing, England Men's all-time leading run-scorer Joe Root is rarely seen without a New Balance blade.
Initial impression: 7.8
Build quality: 7.8
Pick-up/feel: 7.1
Performance: 7.9
OVERALL SCORE: 7.6
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