We Tried It: Lamkin UTX

There is a lot of cool gear in the golf equipment world that doesn’t always fit neatly into Most Wanted Tests or Buyer’s Guides. You still want to know how it performs. In our We Tried It series, we put gear to the test and let you know if it works as advertised.

WHAT WE TRIED

Lamkin UTx Golf Grip – A one of a kind, full-cord grip with a tacky feel.

YOUR LAMKIN UTX TESTER

Phillip Bishop. Most of the time, I have a grip on Most Wanted Testing. However, today, I have a dance with Lamkin’s Tri-Layer Technology.

LAMKIN PAST & PRESENT

Since 1925, Lamkin has been a leader in golf grip manufacturing. Elver Lamkin began the process in 1925 from his own garage. From there, Lamkin grew. Eventually, they touted a 60 year relationship with one of the greats, Arnold Palmer. 90 years have come and gone, and Lamkin has become “one of the most trusted brands in golf”.

Presently, Lamkin has a budding relationship with a current phenom, Tony Finau. With it, the opportunity to showcase one of its top selling grips – Lamkin UTx. Tony currently utilizes this grip, especially during his recent back-to-back victories. Now, what makes this grip different from every other grip?

LAMKIN UTX FEATURES

The Lamkin UTx features Lamkin’s Tri-Layer Technology.

The outer layer is firmer and is derived of ACE (a super tacky and vibration dampening material). Lamkin introduced ACE back in 2014, when the first generation of UTx came out. Over time, the ACE technology allows for additional torsion control with the current Lamkin UTx. The second layer is a full-cord fabric weave. This layer provides more grip traction and also assists with moisture wicking. Finally, the most inner layer contains softer ACE technology. Due to the cord nature of the grip, this layer’s goal is to enhance comfort and feel. One of the key outcomes of Tri-Layer Technology is that it helps Lamkin UTx to be an all weather grip.

STYLE OR LACK THEREOF

Back in 2014, I actually got exposed to Lamkin UTx, and immediately installed them on my clubs. For years, I played with traditional, old reliable Tour Velvets. However, one exposure to UTx changed my mind. I loved the the firmness of the cord weave, but it offered subtle tackiness, which is extremely appealing to me. So, I gamed them…in blue. And admit, I have played Lamkin grips since then.

Fast forward, it is 2022, and this current UTx model comes strictly in grey. Don’t let me fool you. I like the grey. But, I also wish there were more color options (black, blue, and red were options back in the day).

Has supply chain issues and lack of material caused this? I honestly don’t know, but I’d wager it has a role. Perhaps, internal surveys conclude grey is the desired color. Either way, additional color options would be stellar.

PERFORMANCE MATTERS

Since I have experience with Lamkin UTx, there was no hesitation to install them. The biggest question mark for me – will these compare to the previous UTx grips? After all, I’ll play in numerous weather conditions. Furthermore, I will play without a glove (yes, one of those guys) and yes, I took our data to heart.

Here in Virginia, our summertime weather is a brute. Hot, humid conditions along with occasional afternoon rain-showers. These provide excellent conditions to test out the “all weather” nature of the Lamkin UTx. I personally don’t sweat too much (unlike Harry), but, the summer warmth definitely adds moisture to the equation when I decide to play without a glove. So, I was excited to put the UTx to the test to see if performance lives up to the name.

FEEL

Lamkin UTx has cord weaved into the grip. Now, cord grips tend to have a firm, rough feel, which arguably turns people away. However, the Tri-Layer Technology provides a true, tacky feel. The cord weave combined with ACE technology enhances the overall feel. Soft to the touch, but firm enough to give feedback and gripping to the palms and fingers. For me, a tremendous hybrid of tack and cord.

VIBRATION DAMPENING

The first layer in the UTx is designed and implemented to dampen vibration. Now, without hitting thousands of shots, I believe there is noticeable vibration dampening with these grips. Do I have data to back that up? No. However, having hit enough shots with them, especially with my driver and three wedges, I can confidently say I didn’t notice much vibration.

WEATHER PLAYABILITY

Remember how I confessed not playing with a glove? Well, I put UTx to the test and opted to hit all my shots without a glove. For me, the texture of the grip is appealing. In warm, sweaty conditions, I felt in control of the grip with the cord weaving adding enough texture to feel secure.

LAMKIN UTX – TAKEAWAY

This grip isn’t for everyone. I’d argue golfers with arthritis or those that sweat profusely will not find this grip appealing or usable. Furthermore, due to the cord nature, it is highly possible the grip will lessen the durability of your golf glove.

However, in my book, Lamkin UTx is worth the try. The combination of cord and tackiness allows for it to be used without a glove. Since there are golfers who don’t use a glove, this is an added bonus. In damp conditions, it offers enough texture and grip to feel secure, with or without a glove.

If you haven’t held or experienced this grip before, check it out. It offers the chance to appeal to a multitude of golfers. Those that love cord grips. Those that love tack grips. Lamkin UTx is a hybrid that combines the best of both worlds.

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