ROME – The Ryder Cup shop was bustling on Tuesday morning.
Not quite to the extent that there was a line out the door that necessitated using the stanchions on hand as if readying for a TSA rush at the airport or the new hot ride at Disney but it was just a practice round day and you can sense that those may come in handy later this week because fans are going home with souvenirs despite the hefty prices of gear. (How do you feel about 88 euro t-shirts and 139 euro polos?)
Overall, I’d say the selection is a little disappointing in that it’s essentially the usual suspects – polos, hats, quarter zips and hoodies and headcovers and the accessories you see at just about any tournament. I do like the soccer jersey look that is prevalent and best displayed by G/Fore, which also scores with its CIAO hat and scarf. The most unusual item for sale? The Ryder Cup logoed bathrobe takes the prize in my book. Who knew we needed one of those? Most of the big brands are there – Nike, Peter Millar – but also local favorite Chervo and Euro standbys such as Sunderland, Glenmuir and Abacus.
The Ryder Cup Shop has learned a thing from the experts in the merch biz at Augusta National and offering UPS shipping at the exit for those who don’t want to lug their purchases either around or back home. That’s a winner.
Here’s a look at the best of the Ryder Cup gear being sold this week at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club.