Category: Golf Carts

  • Lowes Golf Cart Reviews

    Lowes Golf Cart Reviews

    Lowes is a popular home improvement store with a golf cart section. The top options are the Massimo Electric GMF2X, Kandi 2-seat, Axis NV ACE, and the Coleman Black Electric Golf Cart, a famous offer. 

    Five months ago, I got the Coleman Black Electric Golf Cart, and then two weeks later, my father-in-law gifted me the Yamaha Drive-2 EFI QuieTech. I’ve always been a fan of Yamaha, but Coleman from Lowe’s seems affordable for many. 

    I have written this article to review the Lowe’s golf carts, but I will pay more attention to my experience with the Coleman while comparing it with other Lowe’s golf cart offers. 

    4 Top Lowes Golf Cart Offers

    ImageProductDetailPrice
    <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/Massimo/5013582179">Massimo Electric Golf Cart GMF2X</a>

    Massimo Electric Golf Cart GMF2X

    • Stylish.
    • Digital instrument panel
    • Built-in Bluetooth sound system.
    $9,879
    <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/Coleman-Powersports-Coleman-DR48V-B-L-Electric-Golf-Cart/5013732301">Coleman Black Electric Golf Cart</a>

    Coleman Black Electric Golf Cart

    • Affordable for its value 
    • Spacious
    $9,499
    Kandi 2-seat Electric Golf Cart

    Kandi 2-seat Electric Golf Cart

    • Compact, maneuverable electric golf cart for two passengers only
    $8,549
    <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/Axis/5013317025">Axis Golf Cart</a>

    Axis Golf Cart

    • Sturdy construction for rough terrain and fairways
    $8,549

    * Prices noted on the chart above are based on the official Lowe’s website listings.

    My Lowe’s Coleman Kandi Cart Golf Cart Review 

    Coleman is under the Craftsman label, but Kandi is the company that makes it. After driving this cart for a few months, I’ve identified some areas I genuinely love about the coach and some areas that could have been changed or improved. 

    If you’re also considering a golf cart from Lowes, the Coleman may pique your interest, and I will show you the areas to consider before throwing your money into this unit. 

    The key features

    1. Turn signals are installed close to the steering wheel and horn.

    2. Front and rear seatbelts. Also, grab handles for the rear passengers 

    3. It has an extra two at the rear that doubles as a rear bed to give it a pickup-like appearance for added storage if you don’t have four passengers. 

    4. Extended top roof, which is unique because many golf carts have a top that covers only up to half the length of the Coleman EV cart roof. So, the extension shades the extra two passengers at the back.

    5. Armrest for rear passengers with integrated cupholders and slots for cellphones or other valuables

    6. Fold down the windscreen

    7. There’s a storage underneath the rear seat.

    The Appearance

    The Lowe’s Coleman golf cart is elegant and stylish. I particularly love the diamond-style stitching of the seats. It has excellent craftsmanship. However, the quality of the frame can be better, especially when I compare it with my new Yamaha Drive-2 EFI QuieTech. Some of the components of this golf cart look cheap, but it does the job pretty decently. 

    The front seat has a full LED display, storage on either side, cup holders, and a fold-down windscreen. The cart is available in a matte black finish or silver, the only two color options from Lowe’s. 

    The Performance

    Equipped with a 48-volt AC motor, this model provides smooth acceleration and can reach a top speed of 25 mph. It has a full suspension, front disc brakes, rear drums, and great coil-over shocks, and the cart comes already lifted from the factory. The cart also has sealed batteries and onboard chargers; you only need a cord. 

    However, one thing I don’t like about this Lowe’s cart is that it has no regenerative breaking, making it unfriendly. It has a quarter inch on the brake pads, and if you’re pounding on the brakes going down a grade, they will wear out extremely quickly. 

    Speed

    The Coleman golf cart has a top speed of 20 mph, but it has a 5,000-watt motor, the same size as other Lowe’s carts that are 25+ mph. Coleman Powersports states this model is 20 mph and 40 miles on full charge.

    Customer Support and Warranty 

    The Coleman golf cart from Lowe’s comes with Coleman’s back warranty for two years. They’ve also got over 800 nationwide stores, and people talk about their excellent customer support. 

    However, the challenge with these Chinese products is that finding replacement parts may take time and effort. 

    The Downsides of This Cart

    There’s no perfect cart out there, but the Coleman Cart showed me a lot of red flags. If you’re planning to cop this Lowe’s golf cart, keep the following downsides in mind: 

    • The cup holders are small. There are only three small ones across the front and one that would fit a smaller koozie, but that’s all about it. Nowadays, people have larger containers and Yeti’s that may need to fit into the size of the cupholders.
    • Also, the storage compartment below this Coleman cart’s steering wheel needs to be bigger. I could barely fit a baseball cap into the space, which makes it less utilizable. 
    • When you fold down the rear seat, you are supposed to find a cooler in the compartment underneath the bed. However, the Coleman doesn’t come with a more astonishing insert, and you’ll have to purchase it separately for about $100, which is silly. 
    • This is nitpicking, but not everyone likes the ridiculously loud backup speaker. You can enter through the driver’s front wheel, where you find two smaller round speakers for parking breaks and backup sound. So, you disconnect it to discontinue the sound. 

    Final verdict: Should You Buy A Lowe’s Golf Cart?

    After testing the Coleman from Lowe’s, I’m sad to conclude that despite being a good-looking unit, I won’t hastily recommend it to any interested person, even though they are on a budget. The features are decent, and the cart moves you from point A to B around the golf course with no issues, but I’ll pass on the Coleman and keep my Yamaha or even go with another Lowe’s golf cart like the Axis NV ACE. 

    I’ve been testing golf carts for a while now, and It’s fair to conclude that on the top of the scale, especially in terms of proven name and solid products, Club Car takes the number one position ahead of EZgo and Yamaha. 

    If you must step down from this trifecta, consider newer manufacturers like Icon, Advanced EV, and Evolution, who are already doing a great job competing with the Big 3 (Club Car, Yamaha, and Ezgo). Still, they may be here ten years from now. This is a significant concern when you are considering other component replacements. But their affordability makes them worth considering.

    Based on my conversations with people and comments on Facebook groups, the bottom of the scale has to be buying a golf cart from a big box store. I have no hard feelings about Lowe’s golf carts, but I’ve read about people being completely helpless when they had an issue with their cart because the store wouldn’t fix the problem and the local dealers couldn’t get parts, or they didn’t want to touch a coach from a big box store.

    So Lowe’s may exclusively have some golf carts, but there are more downsides to consider than the good sides. 

    I hope you found this article helpful. 

  • Hisun Pulse Golf Cart Review

    Hisun Pulse Golf Cart Review

    The HIsun Plus golf cart is a good-looking vehicle that also comes at a pretty affordable price compared to many alternatives in the market currently. It doesn’t have the best speed capacity and is not ideal for rugged terrain, but it does a decent job of moving around the fairways and taking on four passengers. 

    Hisun has been in the cart manufacturing industry for years, and they have a series of electric golf carts that have won the hearts of many. If you’re interested in the Hisun Pulse model, there are some things you need to know before going ahead with the purchase. 

    The current talk of the town, as far as golf carts from Hisun go, is the ACE NV unit, but some people still have interest in the Pulse unit. In the rest of this article, you will learn the specifications, key features, pros, and cons of the Hisun Puls Golf cart. This should help you decide if it’s worth your investment or not.

    Hisun Pulse Golf Cart Review

    Hisun Pulse Golf Cart Review

    $7,999

    • Battery Life: 4 x 48V/120Z batteries with a VRLA Charger (intelligent DC 48V/25A).
    • Charging Time: 10 hours
    • Seating Capacity: Four passengers

    The Appearance

    The model has a hard top and a two-piece windshield, but it doesn’t fold down into slots with rubber clamps, as seen in the ACE NV. It has Mirrors on each side for rear visibility.

    There are turning signals installed into the bumper. The model also has a front headlight. What’s nice about the headlight is that it’s low and doesn’t light up the neighbor’s houses but still gives you a grand vision of where you’re driving. 

    The cart has 18 x 8.50-8 turf tires designed for roads and grass, but it won’t tear up your lawn like an actual UTV would. The Hisun Pulse comes in red and has a 4-inch ground clearance. 

    The Dashboard

    There’s a lot of storage on the dashboard, including two cup holders for both sides and two tabs with dual USB slots where you can charge phones and other accessories. It has a crucial place and digital screen behind it where you can see your speed and miles range. Above the dashboard, there’s a lovely extensive mirror with multiple layers, which is also adjustable. 

    Meanwhile, the Hisun Pulse will run approximately 42 miles on flat ground, which most golf carts don’t do with a 48-volt system. 

    Comfortability

    Regarding comfortability for any golf cart, the seating is the first place to look at. The cushion of the Hisun Plus Golf cart has high-quality multiple-layered foam and additional stitching details to give you that comfort that you need on your back and bottom. 

    The legroom space for the front passengers is also ample. However, more could be done for the rear passenger seat. 

     Operation 

    The brake features a system self-adjusting mechanical rear drum and electric suspension. For the steering, it has a two-way pinion and rack system with an automatic clearance compensation function. 

    You can find the control direction at the bottom of the seat. Once you turn the key on, you can pick between forward or reverse. The HIsun Pulse is an elementary and easy-to-use unit. 

    What To Consider Before Picking An Electric Golf Cart

    When buying an electric golf cart, several key features must be considered to ensure you make the right choice for your needs. While you have a model from Hisun in mind, you can compare its value alongside other alternatives with these factors in mind:

    1. Battery life and range: 

    The battery is a crucial component of an electric golf cart. Look for carts with good battery life and a sufficient range to cover your intended usage without frequent recharging. The Hisun Pulse golf cart is 4 x 48V/120Z and uses a VRLA Charger – Intelligent DC 48V/25A. You can consider other powerful alternatives if this doesn’t suit your intense daily usage. 

    2. Charging time:

    Most Hisun golf cart models take 10 hours to charge, which applies to their famous ACE NV neighborhood cart. Consider how long it takes to charge the cart’s battery fully. Faster charging can be convenient, mainly if you have limited downtime between rounds.

    3. Seating capacity: 

    Golf carts have various seating capacities, typically ranging from 2 to 6 seats. The Hisun Pulse only accommodates four passengers. Does this suit the number of passengers you’ll be carrying regularly? If there are more, then alternative models like the Axis. Also, check for features that enhance passenger comfort, such as comfortable seats, ample legroom, and convenient storage options.

    4. Terrain and performance: 

    Consider the terrain you’ll use the golf cart on. Some coaches, like the Hisun Pulse, are designed for smooth fairways, while others have better off-road capabilities. 

    5. Warranty and Support: 

    Research the manufacturer’s warranty and after-sales support. A good warranty can provide peace of mind in case of any issues.

    6. Budget: 

    You want to set a budget and look for options within your financial range. Remember that more features and higher quality may come with a higher price tag. But you can always find a decent brand-new golf cart for around $10,000 to $20,000.

    Finally… 

    Overall, the Hisun Pulse is a decent electric golf cart. I like the appearance and the reasonable performance. 

    However, this cart is only for some. It may work well for moving around your property, but there are better options if you want a heavy-duty, value-packed vehicle. 

    Before making a final decision, I’ll advise you to visit local dealerships, test-drive the models you’re interested in, and gather as much information as possible about the features, warranties, and pricing.

    Feel free to seek ideas from friends or fellow golfers to gain valuable insights into your preferred unit’s performance and satisfaction.

  • Axis Golf Cart Reviews

    Axis Golf Cart Reviews

    The Axis EV golf cart (Ace NV) will accommodate four passengers. It runs on a 48-volt electric motor with a charger included and gets a full charge in 10 hours with a 43-mile range. It features four built-in USB ports, a rear flip cargo seat, and a 2-year warranty. It’s an affordable cart for neighborhood and golf course driving, selling for $8,999 on the Hisun website but exclusively available at Lowe’s.

    Golf carts keep improving each year as the electric vehicle revolution sets in. Consequentially, manufacturers are pushing industrial design, and Axis is one of these guys.

    If you are just beginning your search for new (or used) golf carts for sale, you might have come across the Axis Ace NV, among other popular options like Club Car and EzGo. In this review, I’ll take you through a thorough review of the Axis EV golf cart and what you should expect when you purchase this cart.

    Axis Golf Cart

    Axis Golf Cart

    $8,499

    • Battery Capacity 48V 150AH
    • Max Power 13.4 HP/RPM
    • L x W x H: 107″ x 48″ x 79.5″
    • Vehicle Weight: 1221.36 LBS

    Axis Golf Cart Specifications

    The distinctive details about this cart are the 43-mile driving range, 10-hour charge time, automatic CVR clutch, and foldable rear cargo bed.

    But beyond these features, here are the key specifications of this cart:

    EngineElectric
    Battery capacity48V 150AH
    Max power13.4 HP/RMP
    Max torque39.8 FT/LBS
    Max speed20 MPH
    TransmissionAutomatic CVT/direct drive motor
    GearsReverse, neutral, and forward
    Dimension size107″ x 48″ x 79.5″
    Ground clearance5.3″
    Front axle load410lbs
    Rear axle load811lbs
    Passenger capacity 4
    Warranty2-year limited
    Color available Coastal blue and black
    Price$8,499

    Axis Golf Cart Availability

    The Axis EV golf cart is also marketed as a neighborhood car. It is exclusively available at Lowe’s Hardware, the second-largest hardware chain in the United States after Home Depot.

    Hisun makes the cart, and they have a large assembly plant in McKinney, Texas; their services are available at several dealers if you need them.

    Axis golf cart features

    1. The tires of this golf cart are 12 inches with a 3-inch lift, which is excellent. The tires are also built for off-road adventures, which makes them ideal for driving through golf courses.
    1. Turn signals are installed close to the steering wheel and horn.
    1. high-beam and low-beam headlights.
    1. A full windshield that separates—one folds up into the roof, and the other folds down.
    1. It has an extra two at the rear that double as a rear bed, giving it a pickup-like appearance for added storage if you don’t have four passengers. According to Axis, this bed can hold up to 400 pounds.
    1. There’s storage underneath the rear seat.
    1. The extended roof is unique because many golf carts have a top that covers only up to half the length of the Axsis EV roof. So, the extension shades the extra two passengers at the back.
    1. It has a horizontally placed mirror at the top of the roof, which gives the driver plenty of rear visibility.
    1. One large mirror on each side is also adjustable.
    1. There are four USB charging ports in total—two inside each compartment on the dashboard.
    1. Two large cup holders are also placed on the front passenger side of the dashboard.

    The Appearance

    The Axis golf cart is a decent-looking vehicle. There is nothing particularly grand about the unit’s appearance, but I love the extensive shade and rugged-looking tires. It’s also compact and value-packed.

    Related: EVolution Golf Cart Reviews

    Meanwhile, it’s only available in coastal blue and black colors, which limits options for interested buyers online and for most other brands that offer customization.

    The Batteries

    Four AGM batteries power the Axis EV golf cart. These batteries are heavy but not as severe as six lead-acid batteries or flooded batteries. This is the part where I envy models like the Evolusion Classic 4 Plus.

    Nevertheless, the batteries on the Axis golf cart are sealed and maintenance-free. The brand doesn’t have a lithium battery option yet.

    I also like the charger because it automatically shuts off when the battery is full. If you’re taking a long trip, you can take advantage of this and leave the cart plugged in. Meanwhile, the cable charger is 10 inches long.

    Speed and performance

    In my experience, the Axis golf cart goes between 22 and 24 miles per hour at top speed. This contradicts the specification listed on Lowe’s hardware page, which is 15 miles per hour.

    The ground clearance is also decent because it gives you easy access in and out of the car, especially for a person like me, who is six feet and two inches tall.

    The Price 

    The Axis golf cart costs $8,499 on the manufacturer’s official website. However, this is simply the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

    Depending on where and how you eventually get yours, destination charges, taxes, license fees, or dealer preparation can apply.

    For instance, I got my Coastal Blue Axis golf cart for $9,200. I live in Brackettville, Texas. This is a decent price for a brand-new golf cart that doubles as an electric neighborhood vehicle.

    Is it worth the buy?

    If you’re looking for an electric neighborhood vehicle or golf cart, the Axis golf cart is worth considering. However, there’s nothing grand about this unit.

    It is good-looking and does the job of a Trike or even Yamaha, and the price point is also reasonable. The customer support is also decent; you will find this running at many dealerships. So, overall, it’s a great cart to buy if you’re looking for something average that can stand the test of time.

    Let me know what you think about this golf cart in the comments.

  • EVolution Golf Carts Reviews

    EVolution Golf Carts Reviews

    The EVolution golf cart may have more “features” than many popular models. It’s also affordable, but it doesn’t have the best reputation for durability. It can be a great-performing cart, but be ready to deal with parts unavailability and not-so-great aftermarket support. After researching and testing the EVolution, I recommend someone interested in an electric golf cart stick with one of the “big three: Club Car, EZGO, or Yamaha.

    Despite being in the golf industry for more than ten years, the EVolution company may not have as good a reputation as many of its rivals. However, the premium cart manufacturer claims to be producing the  ‘quickest and most capable golf carts in electric vehicle history.’ The unique selling point of their models is that they are fully electric and have great looks.

    I’m three weeks into ownership of one of these, the Classic 4 Plus. It has the larger motor and battery of their two options (lithium batteries). In all fairness, I like it so far. However, some areas make me bat my eyebrows.

    In this article, I have reviewed all you need to know about EVolution golf carts, including their other models. We will also take a bird’s-eye view of what other users say about this cart to help you decide if the brand is worth your consideration.

    EVolution Golf Cart Models

    EVolution has a long list of models for personal golf cart vehicles. While we cannot focus on all models in a singular article, I will focus on the model I’ve worked with and touch on the researched information from other users who have tried different models. Here is a list of models available from EVolution:

    Cart SeriesUnique features
    Classic seriesIt is the best value pick and has good looks.
    Carrier seriesSix to eight seats. Basically, to demand transportation
    Turfman seriesFor rugged and heavy-duty usage
    Forrester seriesFor rough terrain
    ImageProductDetailPrice
    Classic series

    Classic series

    • 6.3kw motor
    • 9-inch touchscreen with Speedometer display, backup camera, stereo system, and Bluetooth connection
    • 48V AC Induction motor drive system
    • 144″ x 55″ x76″
    Buy Now From $8,499 – $9,999
    Carrier series<br>4 Seater

    Carrier series
    4 Seater

    • 48V AC Induction motor drive system
    • 400A EVOLUTION controller
    • 103″ x 55″ x 74″
    Buy Now $13,999
    Turfman series

    Turfman series

    • 4KW
    • 48 Volts
    • Evolution Lithium Battery
    • 2 Passenger + Golf Attachment
    Buy Now $13,999
    Forrester series<br>6 Seater

    Forrester series
    6 Seater

    • 148″ x 55″ x 87″
    • 48V AC Induction motor drive system
    • 400A EVOLUTION controller
    • 6.3kw motor
    Buy Now $11,540 – $14,130

    The Car App Connection

    Some models of the EVolution cart feature car app connections, so you can download the company’s mobile app and connect it to your golf cart from your phone. It means that you can access charging and other controls from your phone.

    The premium features

    The Evolution Cart is a premium miniature vehicle. It features top qualities such as a luxury steering wheel, two-tone seats, Bluetooth speakers, color-matched inserts on the wheel, and a touchscreen. The company also offers custom color options and seating arrangement options built to match.

    The Touchscreens

    The touchscreens on the dashboard of some of the EVolution carts are impressive, especially as seen in the Carrier Plus models.

    These touchscreens are 9 inches long and give you access to activated radio, music, movies, a speedometer, or even a backup camera.

    The lithium power system

    The EVolution cart uses lithium batteries. They are expensive upfront but last a long time and are incredibly easy to care for. So, one of the best parts of owning this cart is that you no longer have to set reminders to fill your batteries with water. They are also easy to clean.

    The lithium batteries make the golf cart lighter in weight than other options. This is reflected in its improved speed.

    My Classic 4 Plus tops out at 30 mph and gets there quickly. I had tested the lithium EZGO and a Yamaha before buying this one three weeks ago, and it would leave both of them behind.

    The ride and handling are also lovely. It feels more stable than the lifted EZGO I drove during testing.

    How long does an EVolution golf cart battery last?

    According to EVolution, their golf cart batteries typically last 4–10 years. In other words, you can expect the lithium-ion battery to work optimally for between 2,000 and 5,000 charging cycles.

    The Warranty

    Another exciting aspect of purchasing an EVolution golf cart is the warranty. The company offers a 2-year warranty for parts and labor, which is good compared to most other brands. A 4-year warranty is placed on the charger and controller of the cart, no matter the model.

    As for the lithium battery, it comes with a five-year warranty. The frame is the only component with a lifetime warranty on the EVolution cart.

    The customer service

    One thing about customer service is that you can’t know how helpful they are until you’ve used the product for a while and have developed issues that require you to make contact.

    With just three weeks into ownership, I don’t have first-hand experience with how helpful the EVolution cart’s customer service or help is. Still, my findings revealed that local West and East Coast dealers provide support.

    However, many users are not hesitant to come out and say how poor the customer service for this brand is compared to other top brands.

    The Cost 

    Depending on the series, model, and year of manufacture, EVolution golf carts range from $10,000 to closer to $20,000. Many buyers work with local dealers to see what deals they can get within this price range.

    The process is similar to acquiring an average car. I had to work with my dealership to get the Classic Four Plus. But the pricing of this particular brand is no different from other rivals like EZ Go, but it’s a bit pricier than Club Car.

    Pros and cons

    Evolution may come packed with features, but it has highs and lows. If you’re looking to buy from this brand, keep the following pros and cons in mind:

    PROSCONS
    Options for different uses (golf course, work, rugged terrain)Older cart models have been reported to develop motor problems.
    Made with premium featuresPotential battery issues over time
    The speed is impressive (you can go from 0 to 25 mph in 5 seconds).
    Solenoid can break
    Slick lookingYou can’t adjust the side mirrors vertically.
    You can drive it on the streets. 

    Is it worth buying?

    In terms of performance, the EVolution golf cart is a beautiful option. However, the verdict changes when we throw service and parts availability into the discussion. People who have not used the coach for more than two years may have different views because of the warranty.

    But after my in-depth conversation with a dealer who has tried to partner with the ‘value brand,’ it’s apparent that it doesn’t work out because they have little to no access to replacement parts, a proper service manual, and a wiring diagram.

    There’s no doubt that the features of EVolution golf carts are fantastic. The overall performance is excellent, but more and more users are saying the support on the back end is just as bad.

    So far, with my Classic 4 Plus, I’ve not experienced brakes squeaking or rubber tires rooting out, even though I’ve read that this is a common issue with the EVolution carts. Perhaps it’s because I’m only three weeks into its usage.

    If you are okay with paying above $10,000 for short-term usage of your cart or waiting for replacement parts and finding nobody willing to work on them, then there’s no issue.

    However, suppose you’re intent on long-lasting durability and access to replacement parts in case of any defects or upgrade needs. In that case, I recommend you get a Yamaha, such as the QuieTech EFI and PowerTech AC models I’ve used.

    My Final Take: Time Will Tell

    In all fairness, I’m only three weeks into owning the EVolution Classic 4 Plus golf cart. So, it will be a long shot to come to a verdict. Performance-wise, I like the coach. The aesthetic is also impressive. The fit and finish are good. And it applies to other models.

    Generally, the cart is lovable. Aside from the low-quality factory speakers I replaced with this $50 pair from Amazon, it now sounds ten times better.

    However, with advanced research and combing through reviews and testimonies from other users who have owned the cart for three years, I discovered this is not the best EV cart out there.

  • DIY Divot Action Mat: Step-by-step Construction Guide

    DIY Divot Action Mat: Step-by-step Construction Guide

    To create a DIY divot action mat, you must first gather materials like artificial turf, foam padding, Lexan polycarbonate sheet, and adhesive. Cut the Lexan polycarbonate sheet to the desired size, attach foam padding, and then cover it with artificial turf. I’ll walk you through the entire process in this article.

    If you’re setting out to work through a Simulator installation in your space and have a flair for DIY, making a divot action mat will pique your interest. In my case, I started with a 10′ x 7′ net and needed a mat.

    Apart from the cost savings that come with this attempt, I enjoy DIY work and decided to try my hand at a hitting strip. I have created this elaborate article to walk you through the entire process, from collecting supplies to the construction procedures, and then an analysis of my total cost for the project.

    At the end of this article, you should be able to make a divot action mat in your home. Before we dive into the steps, let me share all the materials I used for the project.

    During my research, I also realized that many golfers find it hard to locate these supplies, so I’ve included links to where you can buy them to save you the hassle of multiple clicks over the internet.

    The supplies you need for a DIY Divot Action Mat

    ImageProductDetailPrice
    Lexan polycarbonate sheet with 0.093 thickness

    Lexan polycarbonate sheet with 0.093 thickness

    • Clear protective film on both sides of the sheet. One side has printing. The other side is clear/frosted and hard to see.
    Buy For $17
    Turf (3 ft x 8 ft)

    Turf (3 ft x 8 ft)

    • faux grass made of high-quality synthetic material, Constructed of the highest quality polyethylene and polypropylene yarn, to ensure an extremely High-Density artificial grass.
    Buy For $58
    1" low-density foam

    1″ low-density foam

    • Low-density foam tape made of high elasticity and durability is flexible enough to be easily compressed flat to form a seal with any shape and can return to its former shape shortly
    Buy For $14
    Gorilla Glue Max Strength Construction Adhesive, Clear

    Gorilla Glue Max Strength Construction Adhesive, Clear

    • Gorilla Glue Clear Max Strength Construction Adhesive, 9 Ounce Cartridge
    Buy For $13
    Gym mat, 1" thick

    Gym mat, 1″ thick

    • Protective, portable flooring – dense, durable tiles protect floors and withstand gym equipment and heavy Use
    Buy For $50
    Caulking gun (optional, but I recommend it for easy application of adhesive)

    Caulking gun (optional, but I recommend it for easy application of adhesive)

    • The WORKPRO caulking gun allows for switching between high and low flow rates. Pull the trigger handle downwards; the high-setting thrust ratio is 18:1 for use with adhesive materials.
    Buy For $22

    Meanwhile, you need a heavy-duty utility knife to cut the turf into shape. I also recommend you get this LitKiwi acrylic knife. I got it for $9. It would be helpful if your Lexan polycarbonate sheet weren’t precut to your preferred dimension. You can still use a box cutter as an alternative, especially if you’re in a pinch. But the idea is to use something sharp enough.

    Total Investment: Based on these necessities, the ballpark amount I spent for this project is $183 (excluding delivery fees). After creating the mat, I had extra materials remaining to accommodate the creation of up to three others. Now, let’s proceed to the construction process.

    Construction of a Divot Action Mat: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Heads up: I cut the acrylic to the size I wanted (11’ by 32’). This dimension can vary depending on your preference, but during the step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to cut the acrylic board in case you don’t get a pre-ordered size.

    Now, the installation procedures:

    Step 1

    Take your piece of acrylic and peel off the first layer. In this case, we’re using a Lexan polycarbonate sheet with a thickness of 0.093. I chose this acrylic because it seems popular with many golfers and is more rigid than most other versions I’ve tried.

    Note: Don’t take off the layer too early so that it stays clean. If it remains clean, the glue can stick better.

    Step 2

    Apply the Adhesive to the exposed layer of the acrylic. Use the Gorilla Glue Max Strength Construction Adhesive in this case. I chose this model because it comes in a compact size, which offers more accessible applications than the handheld sizes. I recommend you use a caulking gun for easy application.

    Note: As you apply the adhesive to the surface, you don’t have to spew it all over. Be generous with the glue. You don’t have to apply too much glue because this will only make it difficult when you want to change the turf after a few months of usage. I recommend using the spiral style as illustrated in the image below.

    Step 3

    Attach the surface of the acrylic with glue to the turf. I like to make a piece of turf exceed the acrylic dimensions so I can easily trim the sides for a perfect fit using a box cutter.

    First, lay the turf down, line up the edge with the sheet, and ensure it sits firmly. Use both hands to press the sheet against the turf. Better still, place something weighted and flat on top of the mat overnight to glue it firmly.

    Step 4

    Once it’s cured, it’s time to glue on the risers. In this case, use a cut-out piece of dense Gym matte foam, which is 1″ thick. Cut out two horizontal cubes of the material, one for each breathing edge of the mat.

    When they are in position, before gluing with the adhesives, position the low-density foam on the surface. I recommend creating three strips, one at the center and the other two running along the sides.

    When the risers are mocked up, you can lift each gym mat material and apply the glue. Fortunately, the flowing open-cell foam seal tape conveniently has a sticky side. So you can peel the backing off partially as you attach them to the mat.

    Another great thing I love about this foam from the Fowong brand is that it also acts as a support. So when you strike each ball, you’ll get that nice give. It doesn’t spring back fast, allowing you to take that divot action.

    Step 5

    At this point, your custom-made DIY divot action mat is ready. But before usage, allow the glue to cure for a few hours. Flip the board over as you would when on the simulator floor so that the board’s weight can make the glue cure faster.

    Practicing A Divot On A Mat

    Practicing divots on a mat helps refine your iron shots and ball-striking skills. First, position the golf ball on the mat and set it up as you would for a regular trial, with proper stance and grip. Now follow these steps:

    • Take a controlled swing, focusing on hitting down on the ball.
    • Aim to contact the mat after striking the ball, simulating the divot action.
    • Your hands should lead the clubhead for a downward strike.

    Bottom line

    A divot action mat simulates the experience of taking a divot while hitting iron shots. A typical already-made model will consist of artificial turf layered over foam padding and sometimes even plywood.

    When you hit down on the ball while using this mat, the turf mimics the sensation of taking a divot, helping you practice proper ball-striking technique and accuracy as you would on an actual golf course.

    Attempting to create a DIY version of this mat was a fun project. It is worth doing, especially if you want to save money and have a knack for making things.

    Of course, spending nearly $200 for all the necessary supplies was significant, but we must agree that it’s still an excellent saving over any manufactured mat worth using.

    The best part is that you still have materials to make two to three more after completing the project.

    If you are stuck in any of the procedures for making a divot action mat using the guidelines I provided above, feel free to indicate it in the comment section. I’ll be glad to help.