To have players like 10 levels lower than you, a worse average score, hitting off Pro tees with an R9, is just backward thinking.
I've worked my behind off after changes, being placed on Lvl 20 (pro). I'm now master @ lvl 37, yet struggling at times on the longer courses.
I admit I was lucky enough to buy the 2010 Rapture drivers, before the change, and that on my current level, they too would be unaccessable, but the fact still remains, I have improved my game, only by playing here, spending money on decent balls, yet cannot buy any Master level clubs at all. (not even tour pro).
To have players running around with R9's and the like, who are worse than you, and are no way near levels to buy them, is just Wrong and unfair.
Gear should unlock as you progress up through Tiers, as that's the true indication of your skill level.
my 2c worth
Lex