Drivers - Golf Tips

Buyers Guide 2017: TaylorMade M1 Driver, Fairways & Hybrids

TaylorMade Golf has made a name for itself the past several years by reinventing its product lines. That makes its 2017 a bit unusual as the TaylorMade M1 family of metal woods line carry the same name as the 2016 line.

The technology in the 2017 line, however, is different than the 2016 line, according to TaylorMade, in that it has “have pushed the boundaries’’ of golf club engineering with the M1 driver. For example, TaylorMade says the 2017 M1 driver features a new, lower density Titanium alloy called “9-1-1’’ and an added carbon toe panel that accounts for 43 percent more carbon composite than its predecessor. The two-tone crown of the M1 driver, according to TaylorMade, incorporates a proprietary six-layer carbon composite panel that is precision-fit to the skeletal titanium body using an FF2FF process, which the company says is a breakthrough engineering technique that results in manufacturing repeatability for consistent, aggressive looks and performance.

In designing the new M1 fairway, TaylorMade’s engineers strove to challenge convention that a fairway wood cannot be both adjustable and also incredibly long. Constructed with a 450 stainless steel body, strong Ni-Co C300 face and same carbon composite crown as the M1 driver, the completely re-designed and reshaped M1 fairway has a track system that has been shifted more rearward to make room for a new open channel Speed Pocket designed to deliver more ball speed & more forgiveness. The steel fairway castings have also been pushing the limits of manufacturing to achieve thinner and thinner crown thicknesses every year. Thus, TaylorMade turned to carbon fiber to unlock a new runway of design. The track was moved back behind the Loft Sleeve pocket in order to make room for a through-slot which promotes faster face-flex and ball speed on mis-hits low on the face and also reduces backspin leading to more overall distance.

The new M1 Rescue features a moderate sized, Tour-proven shape and a newly designed sole that will appeal to a larger demographic of player, offering more playability from an increased variety of lies. The sole is engineered with TaylorMade’s first-ever sliding weight system in a hybrid – and the company’s most adjustable ever – providing golfers the opportunity to not only experience the neutral/fade biases of its predecessor but with the added option of draw setting – as well as anything in between for ultimate shot shape adjustability and personalization.

Driver $499.99, fairway $299, hybrid $249 | www.taylormade.com

Buyers Guide 2017: Cobra King F7 & F7+ Driver

Cobra is calling these new drivers its longest and smartest drivers to date. The Cobra King F7 and F7+ provide golfers with a choice between oversized performance or traditional shaping while delivering play-able distance and unmatched feel with extreme forgiveness. These models — as well as the KING LTD Black — boast the “Cobra Connect” Powered by Arccos system which features an ultralight sensor embedded in the grip, allowing golfers to automatically track the distance and accuracy of every drive. Cobra Connect users simply pair their club with the free Arccos Driver smartphone app to receive their performance data, access rangefinder GPS distances for 40,000 courses and compete in the King of the Hole virtual long drive competition. Players will also be able to access exclusive Cobra content within the Arccos Driver app, including product tech videos and golf tips from Cobra coaches and PGA Tour Pros. On the course, the Cobra Connect communicates at shot impact with a golfer’s smartphone, which must be carried in a user’s front pocket. It then uses a proprietary shot detection algorithm and sensors on a user’s smartphone to identify the location of their second shot, allowing driving distance and accuracy to be recorded in real time. At the end of a round, golfers can review their overall driving performance, track improvement and share pictures, longest drives or key stats directly with their friends or other Cobra Connect users.

The KING F7 driver features a larger face and address profile that increases MOI and provides more distance, forgiveness and speed across the face. An adjustable weight system with three CG settings in the front, the back and heel positions al-lows for three differing ball flights – low, high and draw, to pro-vide golfers with optimum distance and trajectory for a variety of conditions. The heavier 12g weight in the front CG position creates a lower, penetrating ball flight with less spin and more roll for maximum distance. When the heavier weight is placed in the back position, it delivers a higher,
towering ball flight with added spin for more carry distance and increased forgiveness. When moved to the heel CG position, it works to reduce spin to deliver straighter drives that correct a slice.

The KING F7 also features a re-engineered Forged Ti-811 E9 Face that is lighter, thinner and hotter, creating faster ball speeds and a larger Sweet ZoneTM across the face. A multi-material TeXtreme Carbon Fiber Crown frees up discretionary weight, allowing Cobra engineers to create three distinct CG positions and three performance distances. The F7+ Driver utilizes the same key technologies as the F7 including three weight settings for CG adjustability, a Forged Ti-811 face, TeXtreme Carbon Fiber Crown and MyFly8 technology.
$349/$399 | www.cobragolf.com

Buyers Guide 2017: Callaway Epic Sub Zero Driver

Callaway calls the new Great Big Bertha Epic Sub Zero Driver “a true paradigm shift in tour driver per-formance.” Its power is based on Callaway’s innovative new Jailbreak Technology, which fundamentally changes how the head and clubface behave at impact to deliver more ball speed and distance. At impact, a metalwood’s face flexes and the crown bulges upward while the sole bulges downward. Jailbreak bars form a firm connection between the crown and sole to inhibit their flexing. That puts more of the load of impact on the face. Physicists call this “energy lensing.” In Epic, it promotes faster ball speed for more distance. The clubhead consists of an aerospace-grade titanium Exo-cage outfitted with a crown and sole pan-els made of triaxial carbon, an extraordinarily light and strong composite material developed by Calla-way. The crown weighs just 10.8g, the sole panels 7.4g. The weight saved is strategically repositioned to create Epic Sub Zero’s extraordinarily high MOI, which measures a full 40 percent higher than the Big Bertha 816 Driver when Epic Sub Zero’s heavier interchangeable weight is in back). Two interchange-able weights (12g and 2g) positioned at the front and back of the sole, which can be used in tandem with the Optifit hosel, give players the ability to adjust the spin-rate, the launch angle and MOI. The club’s unique head construction allows engineers to position the Center of Gravity low, deep and in line with the head’s neutral axis, which is defined as a line that intersects the geometric center of the face and runs perpendicular to the loft. Head speed gets a boost from Callaway’s Speed Step technology. Designed with the direction of aerospace experts, the Speed Step, located on the crown, improves aerodynamics for more speed and distance.
$499 | www.callawaygolf.com

2015 Buyer’s Guide Drivers

Bobby Jones

Black Series | $369
bobbyjones.com

Key Features: A new clubface combines with a hot cupface that’s welded to the cast titanium body for low spin and high ball velocity. Spin rates are consistently around 2,500 rpm or less. The face angle is adjustable.
Wow Factor: The 460cc pear-shaped clubhead looks sleek—particularly with its glossy black finish—and the impact sound was tuned down a notch this year to a really satisfying level.
Specs: Three lofts (9°, 10.5°, 12°), with a Graphite Design G-Series graphite shaft.

Bridgestone Golf

J715 | $449
bridgestonegolf.com

Key Features: The no-nonsense design of the J715 actually shrouds innovative technology that helps promote some serious distance. The F.A.S.T. crown flexes at impact for a higher launch, the milled face prevents slippage (a trait not often considered on drivers), and the movable weights enable a finely tuned launch angle. Oh, yeah, and its clean, deep face-shaping is to be desired. Very desired.
Wow Factor: Good to see Bridgestone back in the category after a brief hiatus. Looks as though they spent time honing in on what matters most—looks, feel and performance. There are no gimmicks here, just a solid performer backed by some outstanding craftsmanship.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°), with MRC Fubuki graphite shafts.

Callaway Golf

Big Bertha Alpha 815 | $449
callawaygolf.com

Key Features: On the heels of the wildly popular Big Bertha Alpha drivers that were unveiled last year, the new Big Bertha Alpha 815 has R-MOTO face technology, which, in simple terms, adds more strength and stability to the clubface for longer drives. It’s also lighter, has slightly more draw bias, and all in all, is way more forgiving than the previous BB Alpha. According to Callaway, it’s ideal for golfers who want to reap the benefits of a low-spin launch—without Henrik Stenson-like swing speed.
Wow Factor: Yeah, we know. They just unveiled the BB Alpha last year, and now they did it again. But make no bones about it, it’s not the same club—this one is way more forgiving and is more suited for regular folks just like us who want to tinker with weights and CG positioning.
Specs: Three lofts (9°, 10.5°, 12°), with premium shaft offerings from Fujikura and Mitsubishi Rayon.

Big Bertha Alpha 815 Double Black Diamond | $499
callawaygolf.com

Key Features: It, too, has R-MOTO face technology, but this model is all about low-spin performance for players with fast swing speeds. The CG is inherently lower, the Gravity Core is taller (for enhanced adjusting), and if you’re among the type of players with swing speeds above 100 mph and, in particular, if you tend to impart a little too much spin on your tee shots—this is the go-to club for you in 2015.
Wow Factor: Look for the Double Black Diamond to burn up the professional Tours this year. Its low CG and low-spin properties make even the longest hitters even longer. That’s just plain not fair, Callaway.
Specs: Comes in two lofts (9°, 10.5°), with Aldila Rogue or Matrix Black Tie graphite shafts.

Cleveland

CG Black Series | $349
clevelandgolf.com

Key Features: Cleveland says these drivers are the lightest drivers on the market, but to be honest, you may not realize it since they’re balanced so well (D-2 swingweight, 260-gram overall weight). The no-frills design is ideal for golfers who want to swing the club faster—without having to do anything. No, really, you don’t need to work out, drink a protein shake or try to swing harder. Just take your normal swing with the CG Black, and you’ll hit it farther. How do we know? Because it worked just like that for us.
Wow Factor: If you’re overwhelmed with adjustable hosels, movable weights and so on, the CG Black is the best lightweight, streamlined driver on the market. And it looks awesome at address.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (9°, 10.5°, 12°), with a graphite shaft.

Cobra Golf

Fly-Z Series | $279-$399
cobragolf.com

Key Features: There are three drivers in the new Fly-Z Series (Fly-Z, Fly-Z+ and Fly-Z XL), and the Fly-Z+ is garnering the most buzz. The driver comes equipped with loads of technology designed for added forgiveness, with stuff like E9 Zone Face Weighting, Speed Channel Tech (which is a channel around the clubface—a little weird at first glance, by the way) and more, but it’s the adjustable weight that moves along the sole from front to back that has our attention. It’s also dead-simple: Move it to the forward position for a lower flightpath. Move it back for a higher one.
Wow Factor: Seriously, Cobra would put a kitchen sink in the Fly-Z+ if they could. But, seemingly, its multi-material, multi-piece, multi-everything construction functions very easily and looks amazing (in a variety of colors, of course). The Fly-Z doesn’t have as much adjustability (it still has a MyFly hosel), and the nonadjustable Fly-Z XL has plenty of draw bias to wipe out the dreaded slice. Nice work, Cobra. We dig ’em.
Specs: Fly-Z XL comes in three lofts (9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°), with Fly-Z XL graphite shafts; Fly-Z is adjustable from 9° to 12°, with Matrix graphite shafts; Fly-Z+ is adjustable from 8.5° to 11.5°, with Aldila or Matrix graphite shafts.

Fourteen Golf

GelongD CT-214 | $600
fourteengolf.com

Key Features: The titanium clubhead’s precise CG depth and distance yield nice feel, a long 47.75-foot shaft boosts clubhead speed and distance, a new shaft flex helps accelerate the clubhead through impact, and a multilayered cupface maximizes spring-like effect. Yes, all that tech doesn’t come cheap.
Wow Factor: This driver came out last year and wowed us then, and it still wows us in 2015. It’s pricey, but sometimes you get exactly what you pay for—precision craftsmanship and outstanding performance.
Specs: Two lofts (9°, 10.5°), with an MD-350JD carbon shaft.

Mizuno

JPX 850 | $399
mizunousa.com

Key Features: The JPX 850’s sliding weight system (dubbed "Fast Track") moves weight front to back, back to front, along the sole of the club. This allows the hitter to refine the spin and launch angle with ease. The adjustable hosel allows for loft adjustments between 7.5° and 11° (wow!), and lateral weight ports can ease or accentuate a fade or draw ballflight.
Wow Factor: We love the blue color, but it’s the ease of use that made us fans. It’s simple to make adjustments in any direction, and we appreciate how easy it is to discern the effects. This is a fun driver to use and tinker with. And, it’s extremely long and forgiving, too. (Don’t want to forget that part.)
Specs: Comes in 9.5°, but can be adjusted eight ways for loft and lie. A Fujikura Motore shaft comes standard.

Nike Golf

Vapor Flex | $499
nikegolf.com

Key Features: All the cool stuff you find in the Vapor Pro and Vapor Speed are in the Vapor Flex, too, but with one more added component: a tube that runs from back to front with a weight called a FlightPod in it. With a flip of the FlightPod, the club’s internal weight scheme can move low and forward to low and back. Low and forward flights the ball lower, with more shotmaking maneuverability; low and back adds more forgiveness.
Wow Factor: Is this the driver that puts Nike at the top of the heap? It certainly has the potential to be. The colors alone caught our eye, and the outstanding performance makes the Vapor Flex, clearly, the best driver Nike has ever made. It’s also one of the most adjustable/customizable sticks on the market.
Specs: Comes in lofts of 8.5° to 12.5°, with Mitsubishi Diamana S+ G (Blue Board) shafts.

Vapor Pro/Vapor Speed $299-$479
nikegolf.com

Key Features: If you want a high launch with low spin, the Vapor Speed is certainly worthy of your consideration. Hmm, where to begin… FlyBeam-reinforced Covert Cavity design, Compression Channel and FlexLoft 2 tech combine to offer explosive distance and forgiveness in all 15 possible settings. The Vapor Pro is a lot like the Vapor Speed, but in a more pear-like shape that Tour players tend to prefer. It also yields a more subdued trajectory than the higher-launching Speed version.
Wow Factor: Rory McIlroy uses the Vapor Pro. Do we need to say anything else?
Specs: Comes in 8.5° to 12.5° lofts, with MRC Diamana S+ G (Blue Board) shafts (Vapor Pro) and MRC Fubuki Z 50 G Series shafts (Vapor Speed).

Ping

G30 | $349
ping.com

Key Features: Crown turbulators (our favorite new word) help reduce drag and generate more clubhead speed and ball velocity for more horsepower off the tee. They also subtly help with alignment, too. Inside, PING made some improvements to strengthen the face, add more stability and enhance overall forgiveness. We also think the higher balance point of the shaft is a novel approach. By moving it closer to the grip, the club feels lighter. This allows for a heavier head, which means it has more MOI to resist twisting on off-center strikes. The adjustable hosel allows for custom launch conditions.
Wow Factor: Turbulators. We love that word! But, really, the G30 is a stellar accomplishment. PING has a knack for making some of our favorite drivers, as of late. The G30 is long and easy to hit. Simple as that.
Specs: Comes in two lofts (9°, 10.5°), with PING TFC 419D or Tour 65/80 graphite shafts.

G30 SF Tec | $349
ping.com

Key Features: If you like everything about the G30, but really want to stop hitting the ball to the right (in all seriousness), the G30 SF Tec may be the antidote to your slicing woes. It has the adjustability and turbulator tech of the G30, but with a concentration of weight near the heel and a lighter overall swingweight.
Wow Factor: Adios, banana balls. It’s time to see what the middle of the fairway looks like, not the right rough. It’s cool to see an anti-slice driver that doesn’t skimp on the latest technology.
Specs: Comes in two lofts (10°, 12°), with PING TFC 419D or Tour 65/80 graphite shafts.

Taylormade

R15 | $429
taylormadegolf.com

Key Features: The Front Track adjustable weighting system also doubles as a Speed Pocket, pushing the CG lower and more forward than any other
TaylorMade driver, to date. There are two weights this go-around for a huge variety of weighting configurations.
Wow Factor: If it bears the R name, you know it’s gonna be good. The R15 comes in white or black, with black being our choice. And, in case you’re wondering, it performs incredibly—what else would you expect?
Specs: Comes in four lofts (9.5°, 10.5°, 12°, 14°) in standard and TP models with Fujikura shafts.

AeroBurner | $299
taylormadegolf.com

Key Features: An enormous Speed Pocket (with a flexible debris cover) enhances the sweet spot and promotes extreme distance. Also, aerodynamics have been improved, not only in the crown, but in the wing-like hosel design.
Wow Factor: Sometimes all you want is a driver that’s fun to look at, easy to swing and, ultimately, launches the ball as far as your swing will allow. That exact club is the new AeroBurner. It’s not adjustable, but with a driver this easy to hit, who needs to adjust anything anyway?
Specs: Comes in four lofts (9.5°, 10.5°, 12°, HL) in standard and two lofts (9.5°, 10.5°) in TP, with Matrix graphite shafts.

Titleist

915D2 | $499
titleist.com

Key Features: Designed to yield a Tour-like trajectory with game-improvement forgiveness (yes, it’s possible, folks), the 915D2 delivers big time. The SureFit Tour hosel and adjustable weight plug allow for a customized launch, and the improved, forged face insert means longer hits on more areas of the face.
Wow Factor: A 7.5° model? Wow! That said, Titleist has long kept their designs subtle and understated, and so is the case with the D2 this year when compared to other models. But don’t be fooled, these drivers are as good as it gets in terms of sheer quality and performance.
Specs: Comes in five lofts (7.5°, 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°), with a variety of graphite shaft offerings.

915D3 | $499
titleist.com

Key Features: Really, the only difference between the 915D3 and the D2 is that the D3 is a slightly smaller (445cc), more pear-shaped design that promotes more shotmaking maneuverability. Better players certainly will appreciate the muted sound and feel. The SureFit Tour hosel is a cinch to use—we love it when things are easy.
Wow Factor: This driver makes you feel like you’re a better player, even before you swing it. But here’s the secret: Even though it’s made for better players, it’s still remarkably forgiving and easy to hit.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (7.5°, 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°), with a variety of graphite shaft offerings.

Tour Edge

Exotics E8 | $399
touredge.com

Key Features: A Power Grid design moves the CG closer to the clubface for a mid-height trajectory/low-spin launch condition. It also comes with an adjustable sole weight and hosel for a custom fit.
Wow Factor: It’s usually the Exotics fairway woods that turn heads, but the E8 is so easy to hit, we think it may start to garner the attention it deserves. It doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles, but that’s because it doesn’t need it. By the way, we also love the deep face design and the shaping of the slightly smaller (440cc) E8 Beta.
Specs: One model that can be adjusted eight ways between 8.5° and 12°; Mitsubishi Rayon or Fujikura shafts come standard (Aldila in the E8 Beta).

Hot Launch | $199
touredge.com

Key Features: An adjustable hosel can be set eight different ways for a customized ballflight, and the deep face design and variable face thickness tech make it exceptionally long and forgiving. A rear weight deepens the center of gravity that helps make it easier to get the ball airborne.
Wow Factor: Did you see the price? For hundreds less than most new drivers on the market, you can still buy a very good driver. We love that.
Specs: One model that can be adjusted eight ways between 8.5° and 12.5°; Grafalloy shafts comes standard.

Wilson Staff

D200 | $299
wilsonstaff.com

Key Features: Smooth lines and an adjustable hosel prove that distance can be sexy. Wilson claims it’s the "lightest and fastest" adjustable driver out there (it’s just under 270 grams total)—but the cool thing is, it doesn’t feel like it. It’s a D2 swingweight, but even still, it feels a little heavier to us. That’s a good thing. When a driver feels too light, it will seem harder to control. That said, when a club is lighter, it’s a sure bet you’ll swing it faster. We sure did.
Wow Factor: Smashingly long drives have never been easier with a Wilson Staff
driver. Period.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (9°, 10.5°, 13°), with a UST Elements Chrome graphite shaft.

Yonex

EZONE XP | $349
yonex.com/sports/golf

Key Features: A composite crown for a low and deep CG, and most notably, a grip with 20 grams infused in the cap end of the grip. This counterbalancing makes the driver feel light, even though it isn’t. It has an adjustable hosel for a custom launch.
Wow Factor: Yes, you can swing lighter clubs faster, but if you can swing a heaver club faster, you’ll hit it even farther. This one proves that point quite nicely.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (9°, 10.5°, 12°), with Yonex EX300 graphite shafts.

2014 Buyer’s Guide Drivers

GET GOLF SHOULDERS
By Zach Allen, PGA

Notice anything unusual about my shoulders? Yep, my right shoulder naturally rests a little below my left! Call it the product of 25 years of competitive golf. I’ve actually developed some shoulder tilt that helps me hit longer tee shots.

What does that mean? Simple. Long hitters know that the secret to power is to hit high up on the golf ball with added loft and reduced spin. Now, you may not have the kind of shoulders I do (I have a chiropractor appointment this afternoon), but at the very least, you can stretch and loosen your abductors to make it easer to have some spine tilt in your swing. The stretch is simple. Hold the club above and away from you, and tilt to your right side. Do this as far as you can, and hold, release and repeat.

Hitting longer drives leads to shorter approaches, which then leads to better chances at holing shorter birdie putts.

Well, that’s our opinion. There are some of you out there who want a driver that allows for some more shotshaping off the tee, too. So, we’ve arranged our drivers this year based on three categories: Tour-Ready, the drivers that best combine performance and maneuverability; Game-Improvement, the drivers that can help you dial in the best power/control formula for your game; and Power, for all-out distance.

Read on and find the right driver for your game. Remember, don’t forget to get fit, especially with regard to the shaft. It will have a huge impact on how well your driver performs.

Tour-Ready

Callaway Golf Big Bertha Alpha Key Features: The first-ever driver with adjustable CG height–through a 10.5-gram carbon-fiber tube bearing a heavy tungsten tip at one end. Inserted in the driver’s sole, heavy-end down, the CG is low for high clubhead speed; it creates a flat, penetrating trajectory. Inserted the other way, the CG is higher. Loft, lie and CG bias are also independently adjustable. Wow Factor: We’re more excited about this model than any driver on the market. Adjustable CG height could mark a breakthrough for future models. Does it work? Hell, yeah, it does. Specs: Two lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡), with a Fubuki ZT graphite shaft. callawaygolf.com \| $499	Cleveland Golf 588 Custom Key Features: No-nonsense, all-around 460cc design that’s engineered to hit the ball farther and straighter than your current big stick. The hosel is adjustable up to 12 ways, and a removable weight allows for an optimal swingweight. Arguably the prettiest-looking driver this year. Wow Factor: The stock Matrix Ozik is a nice touch. That said, listen, folks, Cleveland makes some of the most friendly drivers we get to hit. This one is no exception. It’s crazy-forgiving. Specs: Two adjustable base lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡), with a Matrix Ozik shaft. clevelandgolf.com \| $349	Cobra Golf BiOCELL+ Key Features: A lightweight Venollum alloy crown on this 440cc clubhead delivers a higher ballflight with lower back spin–more distance–than many titanium drivers, says the company. You can adjust to eight different loft settings, and the clubface has a large sweet spot. Wow Factor: We can’t get past the $500 price tag. You’ll either love or detest the funky white-outlined crown graphics, but once you hit it and see its might, you’ll forget all about the aesthetics. This dog has serious bite. Specs: Loft is adjustable from 8_¡ to 11_¡, with a Matrix Red-Tie 6Q graphite shaft. cobragolf.com \| $500


Fourteen Golf GelongD CT-214 Key Features: The titanium clubhead’s precise CG depth and distance yield nice feel, a long 47.75-foot shaft boosts clubhead speed and distance, a new shaft flex helps accelerate the clubhead through impact, and a multilayered cup face maximizes spring-like effect. Yes, all that tech doesn’t come cheap. Wow Factor: The company claims golfers will average a four-yard distance gain with this nicely shaped model. While that’s probably true of any new model if you haven’t upgraded in a while, this comes through on its promise. It has an awesome sound and feel. Specs: Two lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡), with an MD-350JD carbon shaft. fourteengolf.com \| $600	Nike VRS Covert 2.0 Tour Driver Key Features: This is similar to the non-Tour version, but the redesigned NexCOR face is larger in this version than on the standard model, incorporating variable-face thickness to be fast and hot, and generate more ball speed. Wow Factor: The technical story on its stiffer rear cavity back makes a lot of sense, in theory, and seems to translate well to the real world in achieving distance. It’s Nike’s best driver yet. Specs: 8.5_¡-12.5_¡ of loft, with a Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Silver TiNi graphite shaft. nikegolf.com \| $399	Ping i25 Key Features: You can adjust the loft on this driver up or down a half-degree. Racing-style alignment stripes on the crown look sporty, but not gaudy, i.e., they’re not distracting and help you better align your drives without thinking about it. Two high-density weights increase MOI and position the CG to reduce spin and promote a flatter ballflight for more roll upon landing. An extreme variable-thickness clubface. Wow Factor: We’re big fans of PING drivers, in general, and it’s nice to see the brand emerge with a cool-looking model that we can tune the loft on. We also didn’t think they could improve in feel and forgiveness over the i20. Man, we were wrong again. This driver is incredible. Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡), with a PING PWR graphite shaft. ping.com \| $440

GETTING GOLF SHOULDERS

At address, you can see that I have some of my "natural shoulder tilt," as I like to call it. This not only adds width to my swing, but it makes it a lot easier to start the backswing with the club moving inside the targetline.

At impact, notice how my shoulder actually increased even more. This is a good thing, and with practice, you’ll see what I mean. The added loft at impact and a wide swing arc will put a high-flying, low-spinning command on the golf ball.


Taylormade SLDR Key Features: A 20-gram weight slides along a track located on the sole, just behind the clubface, to shape ballflight. The CG is low and forward, which creates extra distance if you use enough loft. This is an adjustable-lofted club, so "Loft Up!" Wow Factor: We found distance to be exceptional on center-struck hits–a good 10 yards longer than usual. Feel is rock-solid. Specs: Five lofts (8_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡, 14_¡), with a Fujikura Speeder 57 graphite shaft and 460cc clubhead, or three lofts (9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with a Fujikura Speeder 67 graphite shaft and 430cc clubhead. taylormadegolf.com \| $399	Titleist 913 D2 Key Features: A high-speed, forged face insert and an optimal CG location, maximizing distance potential, combine for serious stability and forgiveness. The D2 is slightly larger than the D3 and more traditionally shaped, with slight draw bias. Wow Factor: This is the first driver in a long time from Titleist that we feel is truly designed for all types of players. Really, it’s easy to hit long, high bombs with it. We also like how the adjustability for the finely tuned launch works. And, by the way, its sister model, the pear-shaped D3, isn’t forgotten, and is likely a strong choice for players who want good forgiveness and great maneuverability. Specs: Five lofts (7.5_¡, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with an Aldila RIP graphite shaft. titleist.com \| $399	Tour Edge Exotics XCG7 Beta Key Features: An adjustable-lofted 440cc clubhead with a deep, beta-titanium clubface and penetrating trajectory. To minimize spin, weight pads are located high and close to the clubface. A variable-thickness "Power Grid" directly behind the hitting area boosts spring effect by flexing at impact. Wow Factor: It looks like a powerful club, and we feel it taps your inner King Kong when standing over it on the tee box. Specs: One loft that’s adjustable from 8.5_¡ to 12_¡ in half-degree increments, with Matrix Ozik White, Red and Black Tie graphite shafts. touredge.com \| $350
	Wilson Staff FG Tour M3 Key Features: The brand’s first adjustable driver features six separate loft settings and three sole weight options. Variable clubface thickness increases ball speed. The deep face, smaller footprint and Tour-preferred pear shape make the 460cc head appear more compact at address. Wow Factor: Big, muscular and dark, this driver looks powerful. We also really like the crisp impact sound it makes. Ball go far! Specs: One loft (9.5_¡) that’s adjustable from 8.5_¡ to 11.5_¡ in half-degree increments, with an Aldila RIP Phenom graphite shaft. wilsonstaff.com \| 350

Game-Improvement

Bobby Jones Black Series Key Features: A new clubface combines with a hot cup face that’s welded to the cast titanium body for low spin and high ball velocity. Spin rates are consistently around 2,500 rpm or less. Face angle is adjustable. Wow Factor: The 460cc pear-shaped clubhead looks sleek–particularly with its glossy black finish–and impact sound was tuned down a notch this year to a really satisfying level. Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with a Graphite Design G-Series graphite shaft. bobbyjones.com \| $399	Callaway Golf Big Bertha Key Features: Adjustable perimeter weighting is achieved via an 8-gram weight that can slide along a 5-inch track on the perimeter of this high-MOI clubhead. That helps drives travel long and straight despite where the ball makes contact with the Hyper Speed clubface. Through the adjustable hosel, you can independently tune loft and lie angle. Wow Factor: You can bet that anything bearing the flagship Big Bertha name is full of innovation and is destined to be a raging success. This is no exception. We were awed by its power and simple usability. Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 13.5_¡), with a Fubuki Z graphite shaft. callawaygolf.com \| $399	Cleveland 588 Altitude Key Features: An ultralight clubhead bearing high-strength, lightweight walls translates to low and deep weighting that promotes high, straight shots with stability through impact–you can swing away and still get accuracy. Wow Factor: We’re very impressed with the feel and impact sound, and even more impressed with the distance. Shots seem to fly effortlessly. It also resembles Cleveland’s old Launcher Composite–a great thing! And one more thing: We really appreciate seeing a driver for the masses well below $300 MSRP. That’s a win-win. Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with a Matrix Radix graphite shaft. clevelandgolf.com \| $280


Cobra Golf BiOCELL Key Features: Adjust to eight different lofts, and the "SmartPad" provides a square clubface at address regardless of the loft setting. Weight was removed from the clubface and repositioned low and back for more stability. This enlarges the sweet spot, so even mis-hits perform pretty well. Wow Factor: Not to sound shallow, but you can pick from five clubhead colors, which is kind of a cool option. We also really like the cell honeycomb-style graphics on the crown. Just don’t be fooled. These drivers are legit, and the technology behind all that paint is the real deal by folks who know what’s up. Specs: Loft is adjustable from 9_¡ to 12_¡, with a Project X-PXv graphite shaft. cobragolf.com \| $375	Mizuno JPX EZ Key Features: Quickly adjustable to eight settings of loft, lie and face angle. Its crown is designed for ball speed, high launch and low spin. Its face boasts a large COR area for distance. Is this really a Mizuno driver for the masses? Yes, more than ever. Wow Factor: We’re dazzled by how nice and solid it sounds at impact–always a confidence-booster on the tee box. Specs: Two lofts (9.5_¡, 10.5_¡), with a Fujikura Orochi Black Eye graphite shaft. mizunogolf.com \| $300	Nike VRS Covert 2.0 Key Features: Enhanced High-Speed Cavity Back technology redistributes weight to the heel and toe for more forgiving distance on impact across the clubface. A redesigned cavity yields a stiffer rear, transferring more energy to the clubface at impact for distance. A large, reengineered clubface with varying thickness helps boost ball speed and distance. Trust us, it’s really easy to hit. Wow Factor: We like the cherry red clubhead, as we did last year, associating it with speed, as in a fast Ferrari. In this case, speed translates to even more distance. Specs: Loft is adjustable from 8.5_¡ to 12.5_¡, with a Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Black HBP graphite shaft. nikegolf.com \| $299

Tour Edge
Exotics XCG7 Beta

Key Features: This 460cc, 6A4V titanium clubhead incorporates adjustable loft. Four hexahedron weight pads maximize MOI for stability. The weighting positions the CG low and deep, for mid-spin and high launch angles. Weight is removed from the rear-center of the sole and shifted to the rear heel and toe for forgiveness. A variable-thickness "Power Grid" directly behind the hitting area boosts spring effect by flexing at impact.
Wow Factor: The clutter-free clubhead and general shaping soothed us. And, as with most Tour Edge clubs, this is a nice value for the money. Expect a high launch, folks.
Specs: One loft that’s adjustable from 8.5_¡ to 12_¡ in half-degree increments, with Fujikura Exotics Fuel and Fuel Tour graphite shafts.
touredge.com | $300

Power Sticks

Adams Golf
XTD

Key Features: A Cut-Thru Slot behind the face creates spring-like effect off of the face, enlarging the sweet spot for ball speed on center shots and mis-hits.
Wow Factor: It’s cool that Adams tests every driver abefore it’s sold to ensure maximum spring-like effect. Mission accomplished: We found this to be seriously long.
Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with a Matrix Red Tie Driver graphite shaft.
adamsgolf.com | $399

Callaway Golf
X2 Hot

Key Features: A large "Hyper Speed" titanium clubface yields hot ball speed for distance. Through the hosel, golfers can adjust loft and directional bias.
Wow Factor: It doesn’t have the sizzle of the new Big Berthas, but we found it to be solidly long. Like in a really serious way.
Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 13.5_¡), with an Aldila Tour Blue graphite shaft.
callawaygolf.com | $350

Callaway Golf
X2 Hot Pro

Key Features: At 440cc, the clubhead is smaller than the X2 Hot’s 460cc head, but it still features the large "Hyper Speed" titanium clubface that yields hot ball speed for distance. Via the hosel, golfers can adjust loft and directional bias.
Wow F

2013 Buyer’s Guide Drivers

STEP INTO IT
By Zach Allen, PGA

Vijay Singh does this drill before all of his tee shots, which will help ignite your kinematic chain (sequence of events in the downswing). To maximize your potential for the greatest possible clubhead speed, you must initiate your downswing with your lower body. The sequence of movement in a powerful swing is a lot like shifting gears in a race car from first to second to third, fourth and then fifth. We must do the same in the golf swing—you can’t jump gears in an effort to get to fifth gear quicker. The downswing begins with your feet, then knees, hips, shoulders, arms, hands and, finally the clubhead is given speed from the proper kinematic sequence. Most over-the-toppers do it wrong from the beginning of the downswing, initiating with a spinning of the shoulders, forcing them to swing across the ball, with nothing but weak, glancing contact. The "Step Into It" drill helps you get your sequencing correct.

To do it, take a backswing and lift your left leg as you reach the top. Then, as you start the downswing, plant it down and swing through. Do this a few times before the next tee shot that you really want to rip.

WHAT DOES 2013 HAVE IN STORE? If you thought color was just a passing fad, think again. It’s back in 2013, in greater varieties than before. Also, a hot feature in many new drivers is an adjustable hosel that accommodates not only a wide variety of face angles, but lofts, as well. It’s safe to assume that the chasm between Tour-player equipment and stuff for the rest of us is getting narrower, as these adjustable drivers show it’s possible to have one driver that fits all. Check ’em out.

Golf Tips Legend


Acer XS Titanium Key Feature: The aerodynamic crown and deep face combine to produce some serious forgiveness across more of the clubface. Meaning, mis-hits fly straighter and farther. Who It’s For: Budget-minded golfers who know that you don’t have to pay big bucks for an outstanding driver. Really, this a great value for what you get. Wow Factor: Awesome price point and solid performance. Specs: Comes in three lofts (9.5°, 10.5°, 12°) with a stock shaft and grip, or more than 75 shafts and 100 grips to choose from. hirekogolf.com \| $109	Adams Speedline SUPER S Key Feature: An adjustable-loft driver with aerodynamics that prioritize distance. The matte-white crown and contrasting black face is a visual dream at address. The sweet spot? It, too, is enormous. It’s already apparent that TaylorMade is influencing its newest brand acquisition. Who It’s For: Distance gluttons, and who want to adjust the trajectory of their tee bombs for any reason they choose. Wow Factor: Adjustable lofts are an awesome idea. We love… Specs: One head, three lofts (9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°) with a Matrix Radix S 50g graphite shaft. adamsgolf.com \| $350	Adams Speedline SUPER S Key Feature: An adjustable loft, length and lie angle lets you fine-tune your trajectory and spin, instantly. Really folks, what more do you want? Also, the low and deep CG maximized gear effect for a penetrating loft. Stop it, Adams, you’re making golf too easy! (We’re kidding, of course.) Who It’s For: Tinkerers who are only happy with perfect tee shots that fly exactly how they want. Wow Factor: Pretty much everything, except the bigger price. Specs: One head, three lofts (8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°) with an MRC Kuro Kage 60g graphite shaft. adamsgolf.com \| $450


Bobby Jones Lexus Pearl Key Feature: A Japanese-style, Beta-Ti cupface (which is a face that isn’t an insert, but actually one piece that "cups" around the entire clubface and part of the body). Who It’s For: If you’re a fan of innovative club design, then the latest from Jesse Ortiz will have you very pleased. The club’s face angle can be adjusted from square, to closed or extra closed. Wow Factor: The aerodynamic crown slope looks awesome. Specs: Comes in 9°, 10.5° or 12.75° lofts with a Graphite Design G-Series or G-Series Superlite graphite shaft. bobbyjones.com \| $349	Callaway RAZR Fit Xtreme Key Feature: The "Speed Frame" clubface has a huge sweet spot that generates a higher ball speed across more surface area. The adjustable hosel allows you to tune shot shape and trajectory. Oh, yeah, it has a Forged Composite crown for a ridiculously low center of gravity. Who It’s For: Everybody who wants a forgiving/long driver. Wow Factor: Callaway has a new focus, new energy and more momentum than in previous years. This driver proves it. Specs: Comes in a huge variety of shafts and five different lofts (8.5, 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°, 13.5°). Custom paint also available. callawaygolf.com \| $399-$499	Callaway RAZR X HOT Key Feature: The X HOT also has a "Speed Frame" clubface with a huge sweet spot for added forgiveness and distance. Speaking of, this club was built for distance, with its all-titanium design and Ultra Thin Wall Casting. Oh, yeah, it has OptiFit hosel for face and loft tweaking. Who It’s For: Golfers who want a powerful, hard-hitting, maxed-out distance driver. Also available in a neutral Pro model. Wow Factor: The longest driver from Callaway. Ever. Whoa! Specs: Comes in a huge variety of shafts and four different lofts (9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°, 13.5°). callawaygolf.com \| $299


Callaway RAZR X Hot LD Pro Key Feature: With a new partnership between Callaway and the Long Drivers of America, one would expect a driver to follow suit. The X HOT LD Pro has the same performance benefits of the original X HOT, but in lower lofts. Also comes with a COG sleeve to adjust face and loft. Who It’s For: Bombers who want a crack at becoming the next World Long Drive Champion. Wow Factor: We always get excited about long drive competitions. Having Callaway in the mix just upped the ante. Specs: Comes in 5° and 7°, clubhead only. (LH in 7° clubhead) callawaygolf.com \| $279	Cleveland Classic XL Custom Key Feature: The new Classic XL Custom has up to 12 different clubface angle settings, as well as a weight port for even more fine-tuning. That aside, we love the sleek black paint job (even though we miss last year’s retro looks) and the deep face clubhead design. Who It’s For: It’s for any type of golfer looking for the optimal blend of power, forgiveness and adjustability. Wow Factor: Top-notch aesthetics, feel and performance. Specs: Comes in three lofts (7.5°, 9°, 10.5°) in a variety of Miyazaki shafts. Nonadjustable version also available. clevelandgolf.com \| $330	Cleveland CG black Key Feature: The sleek, ultralight CG Black driver has the makings of a top-secret weapon. Best used by swings of less than 95 mph (most of us), the all-black CG Black driver is made to increase one’s swingspeed for added distance. Heck, it only weighs 265 grams, so no wonder it’s so fast! We love those Miyazaki shafts, as well. Who It’s For: Golfers who want more swing speed. Wow Factor: Lightweight never looked and felt so good. Specs: Comes in three lofts (9°, 10.5°, 12°) with a Miyazaki C. Kua 39 graphite shaft. (LH available) clevelandgolf.com \| $299


Cobra AMP Cell Key Feature: Its loft can be adjusted to six different settings, while the sole’s SmartPad is a stationary bulge that’s shaped to square the face at address, regardless of the loft setting. Comes in four colors, too. Who It’s For: Golfers who want Rickie Fowler-like swagger to go with their long-hitting tee shots. Wow Factor: Blue, orange, red or silver. We like ’em all. In fact, we hope the color trend continues. Specs: One clubhead for up to six lofts (8.5°/9.5°/9.5° Draw, 10.5°/10.5° Draw, 11.5°) with a Fujikura Fuel graphite shaft. cobragolf.com \| $375/$325 offset version	Cobra AMP Cell Pro Key Feature: Has a slightly smaller head than the non-Pro version, and a shaft that’s a half-inch shorter. Like its sister club, its loft can be tweaked six ways, and the SmartPad sole keeps the face square at address. Who It’s For: Better players who want forgiveness, distance and adjustability to coincide with tee-ball shotmaking. Wow Factor: Comes in stylish white or bold orange. We only wish it came in blue and red, too! Specs: One clubhead for up to six lofts (7.5°/8.5°/8.5° Fade, 9.5°/9.5° Fade, 10.5°) with an MRC Kuro Kage graphite shaft. cobragolf.com \| $399	Fourteen Golf CT-112 Key Feature: The four-piece composite titanium clubhead includes a crown that’s chemically milled thin, along with a multilayered cupface. The proprietary graphite shaft is 47 inches long; however, it’s designed with extra stability to offset the added length and clubhead speed. Who It’s For: Golfers who want serious craftsmanship. Wow Factor: Big price, but it delivers big drives. Specs: Two lofts (9°, 10.5°), with a proprietary CS-001d graphite shaft. fourteengolf.com \| $799


KRANK Rage Key Feature: Designed for long drive competitors (and used by reigning world champ Ryan Winther), the Rage driver is built for pure power and stability. The deep Tri-Forged Hyper Beta Ti face is lighter and faster for LDA-like distance. Who It’s For: Truthfully, it’s a long driver’s club, but with so many lofts and configurations, it’s actually playable for anyone, regardless of skill level. Comes in white or black. Wow Factor: We were blown away at how forgiving it is! Specs: Seven lofts (4°, 5°, 6°, 7.5°, 9°, 10.5°, 12°) in three different Aldila shafts, in human and superhuman flexes. krankgolf.com \| $299	Mizuno JPX-825 Key Feature: A square face angle, deep titanium clubhead and thin crown create a low CG to help the ball launch high and spin less. Its variable CORTECH face thickness aims to boost ball speed for longer, more consistent drives. Who It’s For: Golfers who appreciate Mizuno’s commitment to quality clubmaking, and who want a seriously straight-hitting driver. Wow Factor: Among the most stable drivers we’ve tried. Specs: Two lofts (9.5°, 10.5°) with a Fujikura Orochi Blue Eye 55 shaft.TS-70d shaft. mizunousa.com \| $299	Nike VR_S Covert Key Feature: Adjustable loft and face angle provides 15 combinations in one clubhead. "High Speed Cavity Back" technology borrowed from the company irons aims to add distance and control. Variable face thickness raises the sweet spot to high in the center, right where we like it. Who It’s For: Everyone, however better players will like the Tour version that’s smaller and has a fixed weight screw. Wow Factor: A cavity-back driver? That’s pretty sweet. Specs: One clubhead for five lofts (8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°, 12.5°) with an MRC Kuro Kage graphite shaft. nikegolf.com \| $299-$399


Ping Anser Key Feature: PING’s first-ever adjustable driver lets you tune one clubhead to three lofts to optimize your launch conditions. You can also choose one of four standard shafts that vary in weight, stiffness profile, and the ball trajectory they generate. Who It’s For: All player types. Literally. Everyone! Wow Factor: Adjustability and PING’s reputation for quality. Specs: Base lofts (8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°), with choice of PING TFC 800D, Aldila RIP Phenom 50, Fujikura Blur Red 005 or MRC Diamana ‘ahina 70 shaft. ping.com \| $440	Ping G25 Key Feature: A deep and forgiving clubhead that can be adjusted to plus or minus one-half degree from the base loft. The ultrathin crown distributes weight to the perimeter, positions the CG low and deep and increases the MOI. Who It’s For: Bubba Watson and all golfers who want serious distance and forgiveness with added adjustability. Wow Factor: PING bills it as its largest-profile, most forgiving head design. We’re sold. Again. Kudos, PING. Specs: Comes in four base lofts (8.5°, 9.5°, 10°, 12°) with PING TFC 189 graphite shaft options. (LH available) ping.com \| $385	Ping i20 Key Feature: Two strategically placed tungsten sole weights in the 460cc titanium head help position the CG low and deep and ramp up the MOI. It’s a forgiving clubface that mid- to low-handicappers can benefit from. Name one good player who doesn’t want to hit long, accurate drives? We can’t. Who It’s For: Golfers who like to hit long workable drives. Wow Factor: Not new, but it’s so good we had to include it. Specs: Comes in three lofts (8.5°, 9.5° and 10°) and two stock shaft options. (LH available) ping.com \| $299

Powerbilt
Air Force One

2012 Buyer’s Guide Drivers

HOVER YOUR PRACTICE SWINGS
By John Stahlschmidt

Roughly 85 percent of all amateurs slice their driver, but very few Tour players do (or if they do, they do it on purpose). Why? Simple. Pros swing the club on a flatter plane and square the clubface at impact.

Slicing can happen for two reasons: a steep downswing that leads to an outside-in swing and/or an open face at impact.

To fight the slice, try rehearsing your swing on a flatter-than-normal swing plane by hovering the clubhead about a foot off the ground and making swings like you see here.

This creates more arm rotation through the impact zone and generates more clubface rotation, as well. Do this enough, and the face will square at impact and allow for a straighter drive.

THE YEAR’S CROP OF NEW DRIVERS are longer and lighter than ever! Thanks to a handful of new design iterations that reduce weight and add length to the shaft, today’s top drivers are extremely powerful and forgiving. And in our opinion, 2012 is the year of pure driver style. Seems as though most companies have adopted the classic shape again, only this time in a variety of colors and variations sure to please just about any type of player. If it’s hot and it’s new, we have it right here in our listings of our favorite drivers for 2012.

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Golf Tips Legend


Adams Speedline Fast 12 Key Feature: Made to be as aerodynamic as possible, the Fast 12’s airfoil design elements cut air drag by up to 14%, making it whizz through the air faster than ever. And faster clubs mean longer drives. It’s simple science, folks! Who It’s For: Golfers who want to take advantage of smooth aerodynamics and who really just want a driver that is extremely long and exceptionally forgiving. There’s no fuss here with adjustability. Just big hits! Specs: Three lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡) with Grafalloy ProLaunch Blue graphite shafts. Draw model also available. (LH avail.) adamsgolf.com \| $299	Adams Speedline Fast 12 LS Key Feature: Super slick aerodynamics help it reduce drag (you can__ see a stepped design on the crown) for a faster swing speed. But, check this out. The club’s length can be adjusted from 45 to 45.5 inches. Cool huh? It can also be face/lie/loft adjusted as well, making it a real club tinkerer’s dream driver. It’s super long and fast, too. Who It’s For: Speed freaks who want a driver that packs a lot of horsepower that also has loads of adjustability. Specs: Comes in three lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡) with a variety of graphite shaft options. (LH available) adamsgolf.com \| $399	Bobby Jones Workshop Ed. Key Feature: The innovative triangular-shaped driver isn’t new, but we like it too much to leave it behind. It’s stable, long and super easy to swing. Perhaps the 47 inches has something to do with that, not to mention the fact that one of the games most innovative designers, Jesse Ortiz, created it. Who It’s For: Golfers who want real power from a pretty-looking driver. Specs: Comes in 9_¡ or 10.5_¡ lofts with a Graphite Design graphite shaft. bobbyjonesgolf.com \| $249


Boccieri Golf DFT Key Feature: The dimple face (on the inside, folks) and the precisely weighted 50g backweighting system combine to produce a driver that feels lighter than it really is. The heavier weight lends better tempo, rhythm and extension of the arms. Swing smooooooth. Who It’s For: Golfers who want more control and a smoother swing. Don’t be fooled, the counterweighting system in this driver can produce long tee shots, as well. Specs: Comes in two lofts (9_¡, 10_¡) with Aldila NVS graph-ite shafts. boccierigolf.com \| $399	Bridgestone 340 Key Feature: The J40 comes in two sizes: 430cc and 445cc, both of which are designed to produce penetrating, nonballooning ballflights. The 445cc head is a tad more forgiving than the workable 430cc, but both produce that coveted, low-spin, midlaunch flight. Who It’s For: Golfers who want to hit boring tee shots. Really, we mean that in a good way. Specs:430cc and 445cc, all-titanium heads, in a variety of lofts. No LH. Comes with Project X graphite shaft. bridgestonegolf.com \| $399	Callaway RAZR Fit Key Feature: An adjustable hosel and removable weights combine to offer custom shot trajectories. Add a Forged Composite Crown and a newly designed SpeedFrame clubface and you have a driver that’s easily our favorite big dog ever from Callaway. Trust us, it’s that good. Who It’s For: Golfers who want an easy-to-use adjustable hosel and removable weight system. It may have a composite body, but it sure doesn’t feel like it. Specs: Comes in a plethora of lofts with a new, 45.5-inch Aldila RIP’d graphite shaft. (LH available) callawaygolf.com \| $399


Callaway RAZR X Black Key Feature: This new driver has a unique black finish that partially hides a Forged Composite Crown, which effectively lowers the CG and places it away from the new SpeedFrame clubface. Okay, so what’s that mean? It means this driver is exceptionally easy to hit, flies long and maybe, best of all, leaves some extra green in your wallet. Who It’s For: Golfers who want a sleek, long, aerody-namic driver that’s also one of the best values in golf. Specs: Comes in a variety of lofts with a Fujikura Motore F8 graphite shaft. (LH available) callawaygolf.com \| $249	Cleveland CG Black Key Feature: The sleek, ultralight CG Black driver has the makings of a top-secret weapon. Best used by swings of less than 95 mph (most of us), the all-black CG Black driver is made to increase one’s swing speed for added distance. Heck, it only weighs 265 grams, so no wonder it’s so fast! We love those Miyazaki shafts, as well. Who It’s For: Golfers who want more swing speed in an instant, and who aren’t afraid of bombing their tee shots. Specs: Comes in 3-PW with aforementioned graphite; also in steel shafts. (LH available) clevelandgolf.com \| $399	Cleveland Classic Key Feature: Wait a second…could it be true? We’ve been waiting for a driver that had the good looks of yesteryear combined with the new technology of today’s metalwoods. And alas, it’s here! The new Classic is our favorite in terms of looks and feel, and dare we say, it performs even better than it looks? It does. It’s mega long! Who It’s For: Golfers who want a club that looks and feels like a vintage sports car, but yields modern-day horsepower. Specs: Comes in three models (270g, 290g or 310g) in a variety of lofts, with a Miyazaki graphite shaft. (LH avail.) clevelandgolf.com \| $299


Cobra AMP Driver Key Feature: There’s a lot going on in the AMP Driver, including E9 Face Tech, Adjustable Flight Tech and the new Advanced Material Placement (AMP) Tech that repositions the CG low and away from the face. The result? A hot, colorful driver that’s our favorite Cobra driver to date. It’s young, fresh and sure to turn heads, not just because it looks good, but because it performs even better. Who It’s For: Golfers who want style and power. Specs: Comes in four lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡) with Aldila RIP graphite shafts. (LH available) cobragolf.com \| $299	Cobra Long Tom Key Feature: Length! This driver is four feet long (48 inches)! The all-black weapon of choice features an ultralight Blackbird shaft and a titanium head replete with tons of technology to help you do one thing: hit longer and straighter bombs down the fairway. It’s almost like it swings itself, making it a breeze to hit big tee shots. Who It’s For: Golfers who want the added distance that comes from a longer shaft, not from swinging harder. Specs: Comes in three lofts (8_¡, 9_¡, 10_¡) with a 48-inch Grafalloy Blackbird shaft. Wow! cobragolf.com \| $349	Cobra ZL Encore Key Feature: The ZL encore employs a mixed-material construction (its crown and sole are composite) as well as a redesigned clubface for even greater distance and forgiveness. Like the previous ZL driver, the Encore also has Adjustable Flight Tech for an even more refined fit. It comes in both white and black with electric green. Who It’s For: Fans of the previous ZL Driver who want a slightly larger design and even more performance. Specs: Comes in four lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡) with Fujikura Motore F1 or F3 graphite shafts. (LH available) cobragolf.com \| $399


DNA DNA Driver Key Feature: The DnA (Distance and Acoustics) driver has removeable clubfaces to adjust based on the sound and feel that you may prefer. And speaking of, this baby actually sounds and feels like a persimmon wood, only with the power and forgiveness of a titanium head. Who It’s For: Golfers who really pay attention to how a driver feels and sounds, and who want the softer feeling of wood in their modern-day big stick. Specs: Comes in three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡) in a variety of clubface/Fujikura shaft configurations. dnagolf.com \| $395	Fourteen Golf DT-111 Key Feature: This new driver oozes beautiful craftsmanship in its unique design that uses four different types of titanium in the face, crown, neck and body. The CG in this driver favors moderate to fast swings, since it’s placed more toward the clubface. This means greater workability for the advanced player, but not without forgiveness. Who It’s For: Better players who want a work of art to play with out on the golf course. Err, and big spenders! Specs: Two lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡) with two graphite shaft options–the standard MD-350gd or the stiffer TS-70d shaft. fourteengolf.com \| $729	Mizuno MP-650 Key Feature: The new MP-650 was designed for Tour players who happen to prefer the classic pear shape and clean aesthetics. Also, the neutral bias allows better players to manipulate their shots easily. Who It’s For: Better players who want a driver that responds to their shotmaking commands and doesn’t come with any confusion. Just think of a shot, make the right swing and watch your ball soar a mile. Specs: Comes in three lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡) with a Fujikura Orochi 65 D graphite shaft. mizunogolf.com \| $399


Nike VR_S Driver Key Feature: Nike has implemented something they call NexCOR face technology in their new VR_S family. The multithickness face design in the driver helps players of all skills nuke their drives. An aerodynamic design makes the clubhead cut through the air like a knife through butter. Who It’s For: Players who want speed (hence the addition of the "S" in the name), and enjoy tinkering with Nike’s adjustable STR8-FIT technology. Specs: Comes in five lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡, 13_¡/HL) with a Nike Fubuki K graphite shaft. nikegolf.com \| $359	Ping G20 Key Feature: Are you ready to launch higher and longer tee shots? That’s exactly what the G20 is made to do, with an external weight placed low in the back section of the sole. This lowers the CG tremendously, resulting in big, towering tee shots. Oh, and it’s PING’s most forgiving driver to boot. Thanks PING, golf just got a lot more fun! Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers who want a high trajectory and tremendous distance. Specs: Comes in four lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10_¡, 12_¡) with two stock PING TFC 169 graphite shaft options. (LH available) ping.com \| $299	Ping i20 Key Feature: Two strategically placed tungsten sole weights in the 460cc titanium head help position the club’s CG low and deep and ramp up the MOI. What results is a forgiving clubface that mid- to low-handicappers can benefit from. Hey, name one good player who doesn’t want to hit long, accurate drives? We sure can’t. Who It’s For: Better golfers who like to hit long, workable, low-spinning shots with a penetrating trajectory. Specs: Comes in three lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡ and 10_¡) and two stock shaft options. (LH available) ping.com \| $349

Powerbilt
Air Force One DF

Forgiveness Supreme Key Feature: The only nitrogen-filled clubhead in golf. What does it do? Eliminates the need for internal bracing. That plus its extremely thin face (2.8 mm) add up to crazy long drives. Also features a face that’s five millimeters taller than the previous iteration. This increase creates a more square face and reduces ball spin and produces longer drives.
Who It’s For: Distance seekers who don’t want to drop a ton of money on their next big stick.
Specs: comes with a proprietary Fujikura shaft.
powerbilt.com | $249

Power Play
Caiman X2 Driver

Players Only Key Feature: The second-generation Caiman driver uses an ultrathin crown and a unique shape (from behind, it actually resembles a caiman crocodile) to bolster the club’s forgiveness and raw power. And by the way, it’s one of the best bargains for a driver that we’ve ever seen. It’s forgiving both off the tee, and in your wallet.
Who It’s For: Average golfers who want a slick, black driver that yields high-launch/low-spin drives.
Specs: Comes in three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡) with a stock graphite shaft or virtually any type of custom option.
hirekogolf.com | $105

2012 Buyer’s Guide Preview

We’re hard at work on the 2012 Buyer’s Guide (on newsstands March 6th), but we wanted to take a timeout to share one of our favorite new clubs with you. The Cleveland Classic driver ($299) combines the good looks of yesteryear combined with the technology of today’s metalwoods. The Classic performs even better than it looks. Is it for you? Absolutely if you want a club that looks and feels like a vintage sports car, but yields modern-day horsepower. Comes in three models (270g, 290g or 310g) in a variety of lofts, with a Miyazaki graphite shaft. (LH avail.) http://www.clevelandgolf.com

2011 Buyer’s Guide Drivers

The next big thing in driver tech is the absence of weight. will it work for you?

If you think about it, we’ve seen some extraordinary advances in driver technology in the last few years. And no, we aren’t talking the transitions we’ve made from wood to metal, or even metal to carbon. Instead, we’re talking about driver customization, the advancements of shaft integration and so on. This year? We’re seeing a new leaf being turned over, this time with regards to how much a driver weighs. They’re getting lighter and easier to swing, meaning you can swing them faster with less effort. Cool huh? We’ve been lucky to try almost every driver in this category, and it’s safe to say, 2011 has some of the best we’ve ever seen.

Golf Tips Legend

Our picks for new technologies, hot trends and equipment standouts.
s = steel g = graphite


Acer XF Leggera Key Feature: The XF Leggera is a lightweight driver head designed specifically for a lightweight shaft, resulting in a driver that’s quick to swing and produces longer tee shots. What We Like: What a great price. Furthermore, the overall shaping is a step in the right direction for Acer. And in case you’re wondering, yes, the crown section is white. Shhhh… Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers who need help getting the ball airborne. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 9°, 10.5°, 12°, with a variety of custom shaft/flex options. L-hand available in 10.5°. acergolf.com \| $64 (clubhead only)	Adams F11 Key Feature: The new Velocity Slot, located on the heel of the driver, improves the club’s aerodynamics for a faster, less turbulent ride. What We Like: Adams says this driver will add up to 12 yards, thanks to its sleek aerodynamics. But really, that’s not a game-changer for us. We happen to like this club based on its awesome looks, feel and tremendous forgiveness. Who It’s For: Golfers who want more clubhead speed with their driver. Specs: Comes in four lofts, 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5° and 12° with Aldila VooDoo or Matrix Xcon graphite shaft (all flexes). Draw models available. adamsgolf.com \| $299	Adams Speedline 4G UltraLite Key Feature: This driver’s total weight is a mere 282g, meaning it’s both lightweight and aerodynamic–a deadly long combination. What We Like: Looks easy on the eyes, and it has all the power and forgiveness you’d come to expect from the popular Speedline series. Faster swingers might prefer a heavier feel since you may be inclined to overswing. (It’s that light!) Who It’s For: Folks who want a lightweight driver that’s by no means a feather. This driver is long and fun to use. Specs: Comes in two lofts, 10° and 12°, with Mitsubishi Bassara graphite shafts (R flex). adamsgolf.com \| $299


Adams 9064LS Key Feature: A deep face, and guess what? Better aerodynamics! What We Like: This driver is a favorite among Tour players because it’s not only fast, but also produces the boring trajectory that better players want. We like that it has two shaft options (for high or low trajectory) and a huge, forgiving face. Who It’s For: Adams Staff players have gobbled this driver up, but it’s not really a Tour driver. Virtually any type of player can reap its benefits. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 8.5°, 9.5° and 10.5°, with Aldila Rip Alpha (high) or Gamma (low) graphite shafts. L-hand available 9.5°. adamsgolf.com \| $299	Boccieri Golf DFT Driver Key Feature: The folks at Heavy Putter have a driver now, with a unique backweighting system under the grip for a balanced feel. What We Like: The Dimple Face (don’t worry they’re on the inside) design leverages a soft feel, while the 50g shaft weight makes the driver feel lighter and faster through the swing. Who It’s For: Don’t dismiss this as a heavy-feeling driver. Its counterbalancing makes it feel light, even though it has a 50g weight in the upper part of the shaft. It’s a lot of fun to swing. Specs: Comes in two lofts, 9° and 10°, with Aldila NVS graphite shafts (S, R). boccierigolf.com \| $399	Bobby Jones Workshop Ed. Key Feature: Jesse Ortiz’s innovative triangular shaping, not to mention a 47-inch shaft that’s superlong and lightweight. What We Like: 47 inches? Wow. And being that it’s approximately 40-45g lighter than most models, it’s a cinch to swing. The triangular design provides a lot of stability on off-center hits. Who It’s For: Tall people? Kidding. Once you get used to the shaft, it’s a fun choice for golfers seeking more distance and forgiveness. Specs: Comes in 9° or 10.5° lofts with a Graphite Design graphite shaft (A, R, S flexes). L-hand available 10.5°. bobbyjonesgolf.com \| $249


Bridgestone J38 Key Feature: A rounded sole that helps to reduce spin rates and promote a higher launch. What We Like: The J38 isn’t new, but we like the shape and size, so it was hard to pass up. It produced a flat trajectory, but it’s also quite forgiving on off-center hits. Who It’s For: Better players who want a big, forgiving head that when paired with the right shaft, produces a flat, boring trajectory for maximum distance and control. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 8.5°, 9.5° and 10.5°, with a Fujikura Motore F1 65 graphite shaft (R, S, X flexes). bridgestonegolf.com \| $399	Callaway Diablo Octane Key Feature: A forged composite crown that’s insanely strong and lightweight, and a Hyperbolic Face design that’s long and forgiving. What We Like: All the above. The Diablo Octane feels nothing like composite-crowned drivers we’ve seen in the past. It has plenty of pop and power. Also available is the Tour version, with an even more traditional head shape and a weighting scheme that produces a more penetrating flight. Who It’s For: Players who have come to recognize Callaway as a leader in driver technologies. Specs: Comes in four lofts, 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°, 13°, with Grafalloy Project X graphite shafts (all flexes). callawaygolf.com \| $299	Callaway RAZR Hawk Key Feature: The RAZR Hawk features a forged composite body (thank you, Lamborghini), meaning designers could position weight to cater to the needs of different players (draw or neutral). Yes, the car company was involved. What We Like: Awesome feel, big distance and a look that’s pure Callaway. The Tour version also is impressive. Who It’s For: Golfers who want all the tech Callaway can dish out in a long/straight hitter. Specs: Comes in four lofts, 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5° and 13°, with Aldila RIP shafts (all flexes). L-hand and custom shafts also available. callawaygolf.com \| $399


Cleveland XL270/SL290 Key Feature: The all-titanium Launcher XL270 and SL290 both are optimized with Right Weight tech, meaning they may be amazingly light, but they’re so perfectly balanced with the right shaft that they don’t feel too lightweight. What We Like: Drivers that feel too light are hard to control. These babies feel perfect, and they perform exceptionally. The 270g is the lightest driver we’ve tried, and boy, did we crush it. Who It’s For: Distance and speed gluttons. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 9°, 10.5°, 12°, with Miyazaki C. Kua 39S graphite shafts (all flexes). L-hand available, as well as draw options. clevelandgolf.com \| $299	Cleveland TL310 Key Feature: This model is ideal for better players (and Tour jocks) who want stability and control from, again, a lightweight driver design. What We Like: At 440cc’s, the TL310 is shaped quite traditionally, with a forgiving clubface and classic good looks. And, oh yeah, one of the best shafts we’ve ever tried. (That’s a big deal, folks.) Who It’s For: Better players who want more speed from a lightweight design, all without sacrificing control. It’s a GT Tech Award contender. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 8.5°, 9.5° and 10.5°, with a Miyazaki C. Kua 59S graphite shaft (X, S, R). L-hand models available (9.5, 10.5). clevelandgolf.com \| $299	Cobra S3 Key Feature: The E9 Face Technology basically means the driver has nine key areas on the face where there’s an awesome amount of energy transfer back into the golf ball. What We Like: The aforementioned tech is cool, but we really like the way this driver looks and the rocketing trajectory it provides. The Fujikura Blur shaft is a nice touch, too. Who It’s For: It has an adjustable hosel, so it can cater to just about any type of golfer. Specs: Comes in four lofts, 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5° and 11.5°, with Fujikura Blur graphite shafts (all flexes). L-hand available (9.5, 10.5). cobragolf.com \| $299


Cobra S3 Max Key Feature: Like the S3, this driver also has the E9 Face Technology, but it also has a slight offset hosel and a scooped crown that aids in both better aerodynamics and visual alignment. What We Like: The S3 Max is the best-looking offset driver we’ve seen. It’s a bona-fide slicebuster with a lot of distance to boot. Who It’s For: Golfers who need a slice fix, thanks to its draw bias; and a distance fix, thanks to E9 Face Technology. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 9.5°, 10.5° and 11.5°, with Fujikura Blur graphite shafts (all flexes). L-hand available (10.5). cobragolf.com \| $299	DnA DnA Driver Key Feature: The DnA (Distance and Acoustics) driver is designed with removeable clubfaces, enabling golfers a custom fit based on the feel and sound they prefer. What We Like: How a driver sounds is often a neglected area of clubhead design. This driver, can actually sound and feel like a persimmon wood if you want it to. That’s gnarly! And by the way, it’s a pretty long and forgiving club, as well. Who It’s For: All golfers willing to try something new from this hip, young up-and-comer. Specs: Available in three lofts, 9°, 10.5°, 12°, in a variety of clubface/Fujikura shaft configurations. dnagolf.com \| $395	Fourteen ST-110 Key Feature: Four-piece construction that has a unique, hybrid titanium (two types) crown for added strength and more distance off the tee. What We Like: Fourteen Golf makes some incredible irons, and their drivers are equally attractive. This one in particular is understated in appearance, but don’t be fooled. It’s a bomber. The crown construction also doubles as an infiniti 452 Player’s Driveraerodynamic feature, again, for more power. Who It’s For: Golfers who want more distance and forgiveness out of an all-titanium design. Specs: Available in two lofts, 9° and 10.5°, with MD-350fd graphite shafts (S, R). fourteengolf.com \| $699


Infiniti 452 Player’s Driver Key Feature: Designed with a deep face for a lower, more penetrating ballflight, the 452 is also made with either a square or open face angle. This helps golfers shape their tee shots. What We Like: The “stealthy” all-black finish is really cool to look at. Also of note, considering this is designed as a 440cc driver for players who want shot maneuverability, the cupface construction provides a wallop of big distance and forgiveness on off-center hits. Who It’s For: Better players who want power. Specs: Available in two lofts, 9° and 10.5°, in a variety of shaft options. infinitigolf.com \| $379	Maruman Majesty Prestigio Key Feature: The club is gold-plated. Need we say anything else? It’s forged titanium underneath, making it not only good-looking, but a viable performer, as well. What We Like: We’ve only seen this driver–we haven’t actually tried it. And frankly, we aren’t sure if we have the nerves to try it, considering how beautifully constructed it is. Wow! Who It’s For: If you need to ask, it’s not for you. This ultrapremium driver is for the golfer who has everything, and needs a little more. Specs: Comes in two lofts, 10.5° and 11.5°, with Majesty Prestigio graphite shafts. maruman.co.jp \| $2,699-$2,799	Mizuno JPX-800 Key Feature: This driver combined a forged face with an ultrathin crown and a strategic inner weighting system, resulting in what Mizuno calls Ultimate Dynamic Stability (U.D.S.) What We Like: Sleek aesthetics (it’d be hard to expect any less from Mizuno) and a great feel off the forged face. The JPX-800 retreats away from adjustable technology; instead it’s just an all-around excellent driver. Who It’s For: Those who want great feel and distance from a great-looking driver. Specs: Comes in three lofts, 9°, 10.5° and 12°, with a Mizuno DS5 graphite shaft. mizunogolf.com \| $299

Nike
SQ Machspeed SQ/R

Forgiveness Supreme Key Feature: The new SQ Machspeed drivers come in both round and square, and both have aerodynamic designs that cut through the wind with ease. STR8-FIT tech allows for an eight-way face-angle configuration.
What We Like: The two options. The square will help those who want sheer forgiveness, while the round will appeal to the traditional player.
Who It’s For: Average players looking for more swing speed and longer, straighter tee shots.
Specs: Both models come in five lofts 8.5°-13°, each with Nike Fubuki graphite shafts (X, S, R, A. L-hand available (9.5, 10.5).

2010 Buyer’s Guide Drivers

2010 is a great year to buy a new driver. Manufacturers have (with a few exceptions) returned to more traditionally shaped clubs, stock driver shafts are better than ever (though certainly not as high performing as a premium fitted one), and prices haven’t budged.

Another reason to buy is that some drivers are now longer and more forgiving than ever. And, of course, the longer the club, the farther it goes. The really good news is that those long sticks are, thanks to quality clubhead engineering, more accurate than ever, making it easier to hit it big and end up in the short stuff.

Golf Tips Legend
Our picks for new technologies, hot trends and equipment standouts.

But don’t take our word about all the new offerings out there. As with any golf purchase, head to a range, pro shop or green-grass store and demo a wide variety of clubs before you buy. Let your experience dictate your choices. You’ll be glad you did.

Acer XDS Insider
Key Feature: Its clubhead’s profile and contour were designed to help create a mental picture of an inside-out swing.
What We Like: The top of the clubhead definitely screams “hit a draw!” Also, the price is nice.
Who It’s For: Slicers. And the last we checked, there are a few of them on the course. Even us.
Specs: The 460cc clubhead comes in two lofts: 10.5_¡ and 12_¡, and is 1.5_¡ closed, almost guaranteeing you’ll never hit another slice. Both the body and clubface are titanium.
hirekogolf.com | $99 Adams Speedline Fast 10
Key Feature: An aerodynamic sole that permits air to flow around it more easily. All told, there’s 10 percent less drag, and that translates to longer drives.
What We Like: Traditional shape at address, but lots of technology “under the hood.”
Who It’s For: Golfers of all abilities, but the weekend warriors will gravitate to it the most.
Specs: Available in four lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 12.5_¡. Comes in two stock shaft options: Aldila Wasabi or Matrix HD (both 60g).
adamsgolf.com | $299 Adams Speedline 9032LS
Key Feature: Heel/toe scoops that help decrease drag and increase clubhead speed by an impressive 3-4 mph. With a 460cc clubhead that equals an increase in distance and forgiveness.
What We Like: A face area that’s 17.3 percent larger than the original Speedline. That equates to more forgiveness on off-center strikes.
Who It’s For: Golfers who dig larger clubheads and need more speed.
Specs: Available in three lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡. Comes with a stock, 60-gram Aldila VooDoo NV6 shaft.
adamsgolf.com | $369

Bridgestone J38 460
Key Feature: A more rigid sole that helps to reduce spin rates and promote a higher launch.
What We Like: We’re suckers for traditional-looking shapes, and J38 460 delivers this at address. With a 460cc clubhead, we felt like we couldn’t miss.
Who It’s For: Built for the better player and mid- handicappers who like traditional shapes as much as they do varying shot shapes.
Specs: Comes in three lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡, and is fitted with a Fujikura Motore F1 65 shaft (R, S, X flexes).
bridgestonegolf.com | $399 Callaway Diablo Edge
Key Feature: A four-piece modular design that produces the most weight-efficient titanium driver Callaway’s ever created.
What We Like: Every part of the club is precision formed and accurately fused together, so weight can be positioned for high-MOI and penetrating ballflights.
Who It’s For: Golfers looking to gain some serious downswing speed for more distance off the tee.
Specs: Comes in four different lofts (9_¡, 10_¡, 11_¡ and 13_¡) and an Aldila Habanero shaft (3 flexes). Tour version available, too.
callawaygolf.com | $299 Callaway FT-iZ
Key Feature: A triangular head shape that helps to create unprecedented speed, stability and shot consistency.
What We Like: The Callaway team used polar weighting, which positions weight at the front and rear of the driver, raising MOI. That makes the FT-iZ more stable, even on off-center hits.
Who It’s For: Golfers who like to use nontraditional shapes.
Specs: Comes with a stock Aldila VooDoo shaft (L, R, S flexes) and is available in four lofts: 9_¡, 10_¡, 11_¡ and 13_¡. Custom shafts available.
callawaygolf.com | $399

Callaway FT-9
Key Feature: Fusion Technology, which allows weight to be positioned in the extreme perimeter via web weighting. This ups the MOI and optimizes the CG.
What We Like: Better sound! That’s reason enough to pick up the best Fusion driver yet. The traditional shape is so refined, we can’t believe it’s actually a composite-body driver.
Who It’s For: Just about anyone.
Specs: Comes in draw, neutral or Tour, with an MR Fubuki shaft. Four lofts: 9_¡, 10_¡, 11_¡ and 13HT_¡.
callawaygolf.com | $399 Cleveland HiBORE Monster
Key Feature: The face is 16 percent bigger than the previous HiBORE, making it almost too easy to hit it solid. We say this driver is “scary long and straight.”
What We Like: Although bigger, this version looks better than ever. The three options (draw, straight, Tour) are well designed to accommodate any golfer.
Who It’s For: Anyone who wants to hit it better, longer, farther, straighter, etc.
Specs: Three versions (regular, Tour, draw), multiple lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡) and two Fujikura Fit-On FLIGHTSPEED shaft options. LH avail.
clevelandgolf.com | $299 Cleveland Launcher DST
Key Feature: Its weight–what there is of it. The Launcher DST weighs less than 300 grams, some 25 grams less than the typical thunder stick.
What We Like: With weight removed, the Cleveland designers could lengthen the DST to 45.75 inches. That results in a bigger swing arc and more distance.
Who It’s For: Golfers who dig a light, long, traditionally shaped big stick.
Specs: The 460cc driver comes in three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡ and 12_¡), and its stock shaft is an Ultralite Diamana Red (three flexes). Also comes in a draw model.
clevelandgolf.com | $299

Cobra ZL
Key Feature: An adjustable hosel that can change the face angle up to 3_¡.
What We Like: The improved sound over some of the company’s recent high-pitched hollow offerings.
Who It’s For: Players seeking maximum distance and accuracy. And, really, who isn’t looking for that?
Specs: Comes in four lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 11.5_¡. The stock Aldila VooDoo shaft was built specifically for Cobra. Measures 46 inches, so be prepared for more distance, but a potentially higher launch for some.
cobragolf.com | $349 Cobra S2
Key Feature: An adjustable hosel that changes the face angle from neutral to closed to open.
What We Like: Its 9 Point Face Technology that helps promote ball speed across the entire clubface.
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers happy to tweak the club so it fits their preferred ballflight.
Specs: Comes in four lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 11.5_¡. Stock shaft is Fujikura’s Fit-On Max 65 (L, R, S, X flexes). Measures 46 inches, which will add distance, but could impact accuracy.
cobragolf.com | $299 Fourteen JC-909
Key Feature: A higher-back head design that Fourteen claims helps alleviate players dropping their right shoulders at impact.
What We Like: Its four-piece, 460cc titanium head. After striping a few with it, we were convinced that this company is a rising star.
Who It’s For: Golfers looking to tack on some extra yards to their drives and who can handle its length.
Specs: Available in two lofts, 9_¡ and 10.5_¡. Measures 46.5 inches and comes with a stock MD-370Lt shaft.
fourteengolf.com | $699

Hippo Hex XXL
Key Feature: Hippo’s new Hex XXL driver boasts a Forged Beta Titanium, 460cc clubhead with the highest MOI allowed, due to internal (4 grams per corner) weighting.
What We Like: With maximum MOI, you’re guaranteed that it’ll resist twisting at impact.
Who It’s For: All golfers looking for a forgiving, oversized driver at a very affordable price.
Specs: Comes with Hippo’s proprietary 100 percent graphite shaft. There are a number of lofts to choose from.
hippo-golf.com | $189 Krank Rage
Key Feature: From a company known for their dominance at long-drive events comes a 460cc offering that delivers the highest ball speed of any of their drivers yet. That says a lot.
What We Like: Looks cool; hits big.
Who It’s For: Judging by their variety of shaft lengths, everyone. Although long drivers will gravitate to the stretched- out 47-inch version.
Specs: Available in five lofts: 6_¡, 7.5_¡, 9_¡, 10.5_¡ and 12_¡. Its Fujikura Diesel shaft comes in five flexes and a variety of lengths from 43 to 47 inches.
krankgolf.com | $349 Louisville SMART Pro B.E.
Key Feature: An enlarged pear-shaped clubhead that was developed with the feedback of a four-time PGA Tour champ.
What We Like: Louisville isn’t afraid to “keep it real.” Their persimmon is beautiful. Feels great.
Who It’s For: Anyone who thinks metal woods just don’t cut it.
Specs: The 250cc clubhead comes in an 11_¡ version. Available in five flexes (R, S, X, A, L) and graphite and steel shafts. Lengths vary from 43 to 45 inches. Free headcover included.
louisvillegolf.com | $309-339

Mizuno MP-630 FastTrack
Key Feature: Its 45 trajectory settings via Mizuno’s Fast Track system.
What We Like: It’s hard not to love a club that affords you the option to adjust ballflight across the board. High, low, left, right…this club does it all.
Who It’s For: Tweakers. With so many trajectories to choose from, you can dominate the course, no matter what the playing conditions.
Specs: Comes in three lofts, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡. Stock shaft is a 64-gram MRC Fubuki. Measures a shorter-than-usual 45 inches.
mizunousa.com | $499 Mizuno MP-630
Key Feature: A 444cc four-piece clubhead that has an open clubface.
What We Like: Its low center of gravity, which produces a low spin and a boring but neutral ballflight. The nifty frequency- tuned sole for a more solid sound.
Who It’s For: Better players who like a traditional head shape and solid-sounding thunder stick.
Specs: Available in two lofts, 9.5_¡ and 10.5_¡. Stock shaft is a 64-gram MRC Fubuki. Measures a shorter-than-usual 45 inches.
mizunousa.com | $299 Nike VR STR8-FIT Tour
Key Feature: A compression channel that increases ball speeds across the entire face.
What We Like: 32, count __ðem, 32 face-angle options via Nike’s STR8-FIT adjustable-face technology.
Who It’s For: Players who like to tweak their drives with a twist of a wrench.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡ and 11.5_¡), and an Aldila VooDoo shaft. Clubhead size is either 440cc or 460cc, depending on the club’s loft. Also comes in a Tour version that’s STR8-FIT-less.
nikegolf.com | $399

Nike SQ Machspeed Str8-Fit
Key Feature: The PowerBow design and sole diffuser that help reduce drag and encourage faster acceleration than any previous Nike driver.
What We Like: Its eight different face-angle options, which make it a breeze for you to shape your shots. Also, it addresses what has been an issue in large clubheads: drag.
Who It’s For: Anyone who doesn’t mind playing with a weird-looking club, as long as it performs.
Specs: Comes in five lofts (8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 11.5_¡ and HL).
nikegolf.com | $299 Ping G15
Key Feature: Its face, which is a tad larger than last year’s G10. That increases forgiveness and places more power behind the ball.
What We Like: The PING engineers built the G15 with an ultrathin crown and external weighting for a higher trajectory and low spin.
Who It’s For: Made for everyone, but golfers who need help launching tee shots will benefit the most.
Specs: Comes in four lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡, 13.5_¡) and a stock PING TFC 149D or Aldila Serrano 60.
pinggolf.com | $350 Ping i15
Key Feature: Internal weights placed away from the face help to knock spin rates down to produce a more Tour-like trajectory and better control.
What We Like: Built with a 460cc clubhead, but it doesn’t look like it because of its pear-shaped head. Not to
mention PING’s classic good looks.
Who It’s For: Better golfers who like to shape their shots without the aid of adjustability. The i15 is made with a fade bias, so slicers beware!
Specs: Comes in three lofts (8_¡, 9.5_¡ and 11_¡). Measures 45.75 inches.
pinggolf.com | $405

Powerbilt Air Force One
Key Feature: Nitrogen-Charged Technology. What’s that? The clubhead is filled with nitrogen gas to provide weightless

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Callaway Golf Big Bertha Alpha Key Features: The first-ever driver with adjustable CG height–through a 10.5-gram carbon-fiber tube bearing a heavy tungsten tip at one end. Inserted in the driver’s sole, heavy-end down, the CG is low for high clubhead speed; it creates a flat, penetrating trajectory. Inserted the other way, the CG is higher. Loft, lie and CG bias are also independently adjustable. Wow Factor: We’re more excited about this model than any driver on the market. Adjustable CG height could mark a breakthrough for future models. Does it work? Hell, yeah, it does. Specs: Two lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡), with a Fubuki ZT graphite shaft. callawaygolf.com \| $499	Cleveland Golf 588 Custom Key Features: No-nonsense, all-around 460cc design that’s engineered to hit the ball farther and straighter than your current big stick. The hosel is adjustable up to 12 ways, and a removable weight allows for an optimal swingweight. Arguably the prettiest-looking driver this year. Wow Factor: The stock Matrix Ozik is a nice touch. That said, listen, folks, Cleveland makes some of the most friendly drivers we get to hit. This one is no exception. It’s crazy-forgiving. Specs: Two adjustable base lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡), with a Matrix Ozik shaft. clevelandgolf.com \| $349	Cobra Golf BiOCELL+ Key Features: A lightweight Venollum alloy crown on this 440cc clubhead delivers a higher ballflight with lower back spin–more distance–than many titanium drivers, says the company. You can adjust to eight different loft settings, and the clubface has a large sweet spot. Wow Factor: We can’t get past the $500 price tag. You’ll either love or detest the funky white-outlined crown graphics, but once you hit it and see its might, you’ll forget all about the aesthetics. This dog has serious bite. Specs: Loft is adjustable from 8_¡ to 11_¡, with a Matrix Red-Tie 6Q graphite shaft. cobragolf.com \| $500


Taylormade SLDR Key Features: A 20-gram weight slides along a track located on the sole, just behind the clubface, to shape ballflight. The CG is low and forward, which creates extra distance if you use enough loft. This is an adjustable-lofted club, so "Loft Up!" Wow Factor: We found distance to be exceptional on center-struck hits–a good 10 yards longer than usual. Feel is rock-solid. Specs: Five lofts (8_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡, 14_¡), with a Fujikura Speeder 57 graphite shaft and 460cc clubhead, or three lofts (9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with a Fujikura Speeder 67 graphite shaft and 430cc clubhead. taylormadegolf.com \| $399	Titleist 913 D2 Key Features: A high-speed, forged face insert and an optimal CG location, maximizing distance potential, combine for serious stability and forgiveness. The D2 is slightly larger than the D3 and more traditionally shaped, with slight draw bias. Wow Factor: This is the first driver in a long time from Titleist that we feel is truly designed for all types of players. Really, it’s easy to hit long, high bombs with it. We also like how the adjustability for the finely tuned launch works. And, by the way, its sister model, the pear-shaped D3, isn’t forgotten, and is likely a strong choice for players who want good forgiveness and great maneuverability. Specs: Five lofts (7.5_¡, 8.5_¡, 9.5_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with an Aldila RIP graphite shaft. titleist.com \| $399	Tour Edge Exotics XCG7 Beta Key Features: An adjustable-lofted 440cc clubhead with a deep, beta-titanium clubface and penetrating trajectory. To minimize spin, weight pads are located high and close to the clubface. A variable-thickness "Power Grid" directly behind the hitting area boosts spring effect by flexing at impact. Wow Factor: It looks like a powerful club, and we feel it taps your inner King Kong when standing over it on the tee box. Specs: One loft that’s adjustable from 8.5_¡ to 12_¡ in half-degree increments, with Matrix Ozik White, Red and Black Tie graphite shafts. touredge.com \| $350
	Wilson Staff FG Tour M3 Key Features: The brand’s first adjustable driver features six separate loft settings and three sole weight options. Variable clubface thickness increases ball speed. The deep face, smaller footprint and Tour-preferred pear shape make the 460cc head appear more compact at address. Wow Factor: Big, muscular and dark, this driver looks powerful. We also really like the crisp impact sound it makes. Ball go far! Specs: One loft (9.5_¡) that’s adjustable from 8.5_¡ to 11.5_¡ in half-degree increments, with an Aldila RIP Phenom graphite shaft. wilsonstaff.com \| 350

Game-Improvement

Bobby Jones Black Series Key Features: A new clubface combines with a hot cup face that’s welded to the cast titanium body for low spin and high ball velocity. Spin rates are consistently around 2,500 rpm or less. Face angle is adjustable. Wow Factor: The 460cc pear-shaped clubhead looks sleek–particularly with its glossy black finish–and impact sound was tuned down a notch this year to a really satisfying level. Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with a Graphite Design G-Series graphite shaft. bobbyjones.com \| $399	Callaway Golf Big Bertha Key Features: Adjustable perimeter weighting is achieved via an 8-gram weight that can slide along a 5-inch track on the perimeter of this high-MOI clubhead. That helps drives travel long and straight despite where the ball makes contact with the Hyper Speed clubface. Through the adjustable hosel, you can independently tune loft and lie angle. Wow Factor: You can bet that anything bearing the flagship Big Bertha name is full of innovation and is destined to be a raging success. This is no exception. We were awed by its power and simple usability. Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 13.5_¡), with a Fubuki Z graphite shaft. callawaygolf.com \| $399	Cleveland 588 Altitude Key Features: An ultralight clubhead bearing high-strength, lightweight walls translates to low and deep weighting that promotes high, straight shots with stability through impact–you can swing away and still get accuracy. Wow Factor: We’re very impressed with the feel and impact sound, and even more impressed with the distance. Shots seem to fly effortlessly. It also resembles Cleveland’s old Launcher Composite–a great thing! And one more thing: We really appreciate seeing a driver for the masses well below $300 MSRP. That’s a win-win. Specs: Three lofts (9_¡, 10.5_¡, 12_¡), with a Matrix Radix graphite shaft. clevelandgolf.com \| $280