You may not have heard of this line of equipment, but the XXIO 8 is part of the Dunlop Sports family and has been the number 1 brand of premium golf clubs in Japan. Although it’s not well known in North America, XXIO has had tremendous success in Japan and Korea. In the video above, Golfing World visits the launch of the new XXIO 8 in early October and explores the new line of equipment. Hopefully this XXIO 8 line will make it’s way to North America soon – the XXIO 7 is available through XXIO USA though!
The XXIO 8 line features drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons that focus on “speed upon weight.” The overall weight of the XXIO 8 driver is lighter than the the previous models, yet the head is actually 1 gram heavier. This gives the club a heavier swing weight and promotes a faster clubhead speed to increased distance. The development of the XXIO 8 has been aided by the brand ambassadors who gave the company their feedback. The driver will be offered from 8.5 – 12.5 degrees of loft. The shaft is 45.5 inches and the club weights a total of 272 grams. The manufacturer’s suggest retail price is 80,000 Yen (about $778!) plus tax – it’s not a secret that golf is a very expensive sport in Japan and Asia in general! You can find out more about the rest of the line up on the XXIO Japan website and more about the history of XXIO in the video below!
Source: Dunlop Sports, XXIO 8 Japan, XXIO USA
Living in Asia, specifically Hong Kong, we get to see and experience XXIO equipment in most golf shops. I’m glad you mentioned that the brand retails at a premium price point, because they absolutely do. It’s quite phenomenal how expensive golf is in Asia. Great post, guys!
Thanks for the feedback! We’ve had the opportunity to play golf over in Asia a couple of times and you’re right, it is extremely expensive! The culture is a lot different than what we were use to over in North America as well, but it was a great experience playing the game in such a different environment.