There were plenty of cool golfers before Arnold Palmer came along and won the 1954 U.S. Amateur, and then four Masters, three PGA Championships, two British Opens and a U.S. Open.
But Palmer, whose ascension to the top of the golf world coincided with the arrival of televised tournaments, made golf cool to a whole new group of people. He was approachable, signed everything for everyone and played with a swashbuckling style that made both his triumphs and defeats thrilling.
Palmer, who passed away on the eve of the Ryder Cup in 2016, would have been 92 on September 10, but his stamp on the game and the players on the PGA Tour is still strong. Steve DiMeglio wrote that earlier this year, catching up with Sweden’s Henrik Stenson, who offered his thanks to Palmer.
“We still very much feel his spirit and his presence here at his own event, but also in the game of golf in general,” Stenson said. “So much work for charity. He’s a huge figure in the sport and big thanks for everything he did throughout his career and after.”
To keep Palmer’s spirit alive and celebrate The King, here are some cool Arnold Palmer-themed items any golfer will love.
Limited edition Callaway Chrome Soft Truvis balls.
This is the same three-piece, urethane-covered Callaway Chrome Soft ball that has been popular for over a year, but the special Truvis high-visibility pattern pays homage to Palmer. Noth only is the ball covered in umbrellas, each is a No. 29, commemorating the year in which Palmer was born. ($47.99 per dozen at callawaygolf.com)
Puma Arnold Palmer hat. (Puma Golf)
Arnie loved pastel colors and often wore yellow and pink on the course. This hat is a subtle way to add a splash of color to your game. ($35 at pumagolf.com)
Seamus Golf Arnold Palmer ball marker. (Seamus Golf)
Measuring 1.5 inches in diameter, this hand-forged ball marker featuring Palmer’s signature umbrella logo will be easy to spot on the greens. ($35 at Seamus Golf)
Smathers & Branson Arnold Palmer Needlepoint coaster set
The signature, the drink, the umbrella and the cardigan, this set has the whole Palmer package. ($75 at Smather’s & Branson)
Stitch Arnold Palmer headcover. (Stitch)
With this soft leather cover over your driver, there will be no laying up in your next rough. ($98 at Stitch Golf)
Weatherman Arnold Palmer umbrella (Weatherman)
Able to withstand gusts up to 55 miles per hour without inverting, you’ll almost hope the skies open up when you’ve got this umbrella with you. When it is sunny, it provides SPF 50 sun protection. ($94 at weatherman.com)
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