Best Drivers: Performance
Identifying the most deserving clubs for our Hot List equipment guide requires the ability to decipher among thin lines of excellence. That’s why we commit to extensive player-testing and spend hundreds of hours meeting with manufacturer R&D teams and our academic panel of scientists to better understand the nuances that make each club special. How far the ball travels isn’t the only factor. The quality of the trajectory and degree of forgiveness and confidence it inspires are equally important. Our driver scores are based on a 1-5 rating scale and include a second Top-5 rating that testers submit after hitting all the models. In that step, testers compile a list of their top-rated drivers in order from 1 to 5. Here’s how our 32 testers evaluated drivers based on their interpretation of Performance, with each driver earning a minimum score of 4.5 stars. Note that the star rating is for the brand’s family of models, so the rating applies to all the models in a family.
Callaway
Quantum Max
$650
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
Features the deepest center of gravity in the Callaway family to maximize stability on off-center hits and to yield a higher launch.
The multi-material face entails three levels: an ultra-thin titanium reinforced by a polymer-mesh compound and a carbon-fiber panel.
The three-level design allows for a thinner titanium front piece for greater variable thicknesses to optimize ball speed and spin performance.
The face design uses AI impact-simulation modeling based on the target golfer impact patterns to maximize flexibility across every area of the face.
The variable thickness pattern also reduces spin on the highest-spinning shots and maintains sufficient spin on the lowest spinning shots.
An aerodynamically sleeker, movable 10-gram weight at the rear perimeter allows players to tweak among neutral and draw settings.
MOI rating: High
Top 5 in Performance, middle- and high-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Callaway
Quantum Max D
$650
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
Callaway’s most draw-biased driver option.
Its larger frame and lower center of gravity promote easier, higher launch.
Three separate elements comprise the face: an extra-thin titanium front piece, a polymer-mesh backing and a carbon-fiber support layer.
The three tiers work together to provide a thinner, more flexible titanium face strengthened by a layer of carbon composite.
The design provides a wider array of face thickness permutations to create consistent speed and controlled spin across a greater area of the face.
A slightly more upright lie angle compared to the stock Max model also aids in the fight against a slice.
The adjustable hosel allows loft and lie to be manipulated independently.
MOI rating: High
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Callaway
Quantum Max Fast
$700
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$700
A lightweight carbon-composite construction covering the crown and sole provide more potential velocity for players with moderate swing speeds.
While lighter, its deep center of gravity stabilizes the head on those off-center hits for consistent distance and direction control.
A 40-gram ultralight shaft makes it easier for average golfers to boost their swing speed and elevate their launch angle.
The three-layer face design provides a thinner, more flexible titanium face strengthened by a layer of carbon composite.
The face’s variable thicknesses grew from AI modeling that dialed in the ideal flexing based on studying the typical golfer’s impact patterns.
A more upright lie angle also helps to encourage a draw ball flight.
MOI rating: High
10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Callaway
Quantum Triple Diamond
$700
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$700
This more compact shape (450cc) targets better players with faster swing speeds who are looking for less spin and a flatter trajectory.
The innovative three-layer face uses an ultra-thin titanium layer supported by an inner layer of carbon composite joined to the face by a polymer mesh.
Its shorter front-to-back size makes it especially appealing to players who like to work the ball off the tee.
The carbon fiber’s strength allows for an intricate variable-thickness pattern on the titanium face.
AI modeling created an amorphous rippled face pattern that yields more micro deflections that improve ball speed, launch and spin control.
Except for the titanium face, the entire driver head is made from lightweight carbon composite to free up mass for a lower center of gravity.
An aerodynamically sleeker, movable 10-gram weight at the rear perimeter allows players to make adjustments among various neutral and fade settings.
MOI rating: Above Average
Top 5 in Performance, low-handicaps
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Callaway
Quantum Triple Diamond Max
$700
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$700
Built for players who demand the low-spin performance of the company’s Triple Diamond drivers but need extra forgiveness from this model’s full-size shape.
The first of its kind three-layer face combines an ultra-thin layer of titanium and a strong carbon-composite backing between a high-strength polymer mesh.
That face structure allows the ultra-thin titanium to flex in more intricate ways across a broader area for more consistent distance.
Designers used AI to study typical golfer impact patterns to create amorphous face thickness contours for improved ball speed and control of launch and spin.
The larger size still features a spin-killing lower center of gravity thanks to the lightweight carbon-composite structure that forms the crown and sole.
An aerodynamically more efficient, adjustable 10-gram weight at the rear perimeter allows players to tweak among neutral and fade settings.
MOI rating: High
Top 5 in Performance, low-handicaps
9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
OPTM LS
$600
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
With more internal weighting toward the front, this model is for players focused on lowering spin and those favoring a compact shape for enhanced workability.
Like others in the OPTM family, this model uses balanced internal weighting to minimize the way the head might wobble on a mis-hit to increase consistency in trajectory and spin.
Three movable sole weights (11, seven and three grams) allow golfers to tweak ball flight among neutral, low and high. They also add forgiveness and minimize spin.
The LS is the most aerodynamically efficient model in the OPTM lineup and has a raised rear portion and compact shape to optimize swing speed for the fastest swingers.
Thin-ply carbon-composite panels (about one-third the density of titanium) save weight in the crown and sole to improve perimeter weighting and lower the center of gravity.
The variable-thickness face has 15 zones for better flexing on off-center locations.
A 33-way adjustable hosel, the most diverse in the game, accommodates tweaks to ball flight from low to high and left to right.
MOI rating: Moderate
Top 5 in Performance, low-handicaps
9, 10.5 degrees (with 33-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
OPTM Max-D
$600
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
Along with the Max-K, the Max-D offers the largest profile in the OPTM family, but it also adds internal heel-side weighting for built-in slice fighting.
A holistic approach to fighting the slice, the Max-D is the most draw-biased driver in company history.
The head’s lighter weight also makes it easier for players to control the head and return the face to square at impact.
The large size features a rear skirt section that provides a lower and deeper center of gravity for easier and higher launch.
Like others in the OPTM family, this model uses balanced internal weighting for increased stability and consistency in ball trajectory and spin.
Thin-ply carbon composite panels (about one-third the density of titanium) save weight in the crown and sole to improve perimeter weighting and lower the center of gravity.
The variable-thickness face features 15 zones across the face for better flexing.
A 33-way adjustable hosel, the most diverse in the game, accommodates tweaks to ball flight from low to high and left to right.
MOI rating: Above Average
10.5, 12 degrees (with a 33-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
OPTM Max-K
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
The most forgiving model in the OPTM lineup uses a broad address profile to deepen the center of gravity for maximum forgiveness and high launch.
It ranks among the top 10 in total moment of inertia on this year’s Hot List.
The large size uses a rear skirt section to provide a lower and deeper center of gravity for easier and higher launch.
Like others in the OPTM family, this model uses balanced internal weighting to minimize the way the head might wobble on a mis-hit to increase consistency in ball trajectory and spin.
The extra boost of stability aims to produce greater forgiveness.
Thin-ply carbon-composite panels (about one-third the density of titanium) save weight in the crown and sole to improve perimeter weighting and lower the center of gravity.
The variable-thickness face features 15 zones from heel to toe and high to low for better flexing on off-center locations.
A 33-way adjustable hosel, the most diverse in the game, accommodates tweaks to ball flight from low to high and left to right.
MOI rating: Extreme
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with 33-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
OPTM X
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
A larger front-to-back shape than the LS emphasizes forgiveness and maintains low spin, targeting players who prefer distance rather than workability.
Adjustable sole weights (11 and three grams) occupy spots in the front toe and rear center. Placing the heavier weight in the front improves stability for consistent trajectory and spin. Positioning it in the rear adds forgiveness on mis-hits and a higher launch.
Compared to last year’s DS-Adapt, the frame on the OPTM X is shorter front to back for a profile that’s more appealing to better players.
The slightly raised rear portion of the sole and the higher crown shape offers aerodynamic enhancements for more potential swing speed.
Like others in the OPTM family, this model uses balanced internal weighting to minimize the way the head might wobble on a mis-hit to increase consistency in ball trajectory and spin.
The extra boost of stability aims to produce greater forgiveness.
Thin-ply carbon-composite panels (about one-third the density of titanium) save weight in the crown and sole to improve perimeter weighting and lower the center of gravity.
The variable-thickness face features 15 zones from heel to toe and high to low for better flexing on off-center locations.
A 33-way adjustable hosel, the most diverse in the game, accommodates tweaks to ball flight from low to high and left to right.
MOI rating: High
Top 5 in Performance, middle- and high-handicaps
9, 10.5 degrees (with 33-way adjustable hosel)
Ping
G440 K
$705
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Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$705
The previous version offered extreme forgiveness. This upgrade adds a 32-gram adjustable weight that can shift among draw, neutral and fade settings.
The ultra-stability comes by repositioning weight saved from light carbon-composite sections that wrap around the crown and fill a large piece of the sole plate.
Saving weight also frees up more mass that sits lower in the head to drop the center of gravity. This reduces excessive spin for a more energetic ball flight.
Ping’s largest looking driver at address also pushes forgiveness to new levels: It was the highest MOI we charted at this year’s Hot List, checking in with a total MOI over 10,200.
Internal ribs that stretch the width of the sole and throughout the carbon-composite crown calm vibration to produce a more muted, solid sound.
Like the other models in the G440 family, the new face design features a thinned-out section in the high heel to produce even more consistent ball speed.
MOI rating: Extreme
Top 5 in Sound/Feel, high-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Ping
G440 LST
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The LST is for players with faster swings who are looking to reduce spin, and it still maintains one of the highest ratings for stability on off-center hits.
Allows faster swings to maintain ball speed without increases in trajectory or spin.
A carbon-composite piece wraps into the back half of the crown to save mass that is repositioned low and forward of the other G440 models.
A 29-gram adjustable weight in the rear perimeter fits into neutral, draw or fade positions.
A redesigned interior portion of the hosel creates room for the face to flex better.
The head has a flatter lie angle than the G440 Max to reduce draw bias.
The titanium-alloy face is thinner and more flexible to optimize ball speed across a broader area.
The stock-length shaft is stretched to 46 inches to create more potential swing speed.
MOI rating: High
Top 5 in Performance, low-handicaps
7.5, 9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Ping
G440 Max
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The Max has a smaller address profile than the G440 K. It saves weight in the head and shaft to create more potential speed while remaining among the highest in MOI stability.
A redesigned interior portion of the hosel creates room for that area of the face to flex better while lowering the center of gravity.
A carbon-composite section wraps into the back of the crown to save mass that is converted into a 29-gram adjustable weight in the rear for neutral, draw or fade positions.
The lowest center of gravity in Ping history launches shots with less distance-robbing spin than previous versions.
The titanium-alloy face is thinner and more flexible to optimize ball speed.
The reduced size of the overall head results in a more compact view at address and a denser impact sound.
The shaft’s stock length is stretched to 46 inches to create more potential swing speed.
MOI rating: High
Top 5 in Performance, middle-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Ping
G440 SFT
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The slice-fighting “neutral” face angle is 1.5 degrees closed compared to the G440 Max in a “draw” setting.
The new 9-degree model provides slice correction for players with faster swing speeds, too.
A redesigned interior portion of the hosel creates room for that area of the face to flex better while lowering the center of gravity.
A carbon-composite section wraps into the back of the crown to save mass that is converted into a 23-gram adjustable weight in the rear for Draw and Draw+ settings.
The titanium-alloy face is thinner and more flexible to optimize ball speed.
The SFT is 3 percent lighter than the LST to make it easier for moderate-swing-speed players to control.
The shaft’s stock length is stretched to 46 inches to create more potential swing speed.
MOI rating: High
9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi4D
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The core model of the Qi4D family emphasizes stability on off-center hits and aerodynamic efficiency, a difficult combination made possible by the extensive use of lightweight carbon composite in the crown, sole and face.
Four adjustable sole weights provide 26 grams of movable weight that can reduce spin, increase stability, change trajectory or mitigate left or right misses.
An updated design of the slot in the sole (thinner in the middle and wider at the heel and toe) improves the way the lower portion of the face flexes compared to the Qi35.
A new shaft-fitting algorithm, based on 11 million shots captured during the past two decades, analyzes the rate a golfer closes the face coming into impact and then matches that tendency to one of three shaft profiles to improve center-face contact.
The composite face maximizes deflection thanks to a new variable-thickness pattern arranged through 60 layers of carbon composite.
Part of that new face design includes added face curvature from the crown to the sole to produce more consistent speed, spin and launch on mis-hits.
Thanks to softening the edge between the top of the face and the start of the crown, and the way the rear weight port is more tucked under the sole, the head moves through the air more efficiently to maximize swing speed.
Top 5 in Sound/Feel, middle-handicaps
MOI rating: High
8, 9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi4D LS
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
This compact model (although still 460cc) is built for low spin through its lower, more forward center of gravity and increased speed through enhanced aerodynamic shaping.
Those aerodynamic improvements include softening where the top of the face and the start of the crown meet, as well as tucking the rear weight port within the rear perimeter.
Two adjustable sole weights (15 and four grams) can be flipped between front and back to reduce spin, increase stability, or change trajectory.
An updated design of the slot in the sole (thinner in the middle and wider at the heel and toe) improves the way the lower portion of the face flexes compared to the Qi35.
A new shaft-fitting algorithm, based on 11 million shots captured during the past two decades, analyzes the rate a golfer closes the face coming into impact and then matches that tendency to one of three shaft profiles to improve center-face contact.
The composite face maximizes deflection on center and off-center locations thanks to a new variable-thickness pattern arranged through 60 layers of carbon composite.
Part of that new face design also includes added face curvature from the crown to the sole to produce more consistent speed, spin and launch on mis-hits.
Top 5 in Look, low-handicaps
MOI rating: Moderate
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi4D Max
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The most forgiving model in the Qi4D family benefits from a titanium-free construction that blends carbon composite in the crown, sole and face with a lightweight aluminum frame.
Stretched longer front to back than the core model, the Qi4D Max features the deepest center of gravity for improved stability and higher launch.
Switching out titanium for aluminum in the frame saves enough mass to create two adjustable sole weights positioned in the front and rear. Flipping the 13- and four-gram weights raises or lowers ball flight, increases forgiveness or reduces spin.
An updated design of the slot in the sole (thinner in the middle and wider at the heel and toe) improves the way the lower portion of the face flexes compared to past models.
A new shaft-fitting algorithm, based on 11 million shots captured during the past two decades, analyzes the rate a golfer closes the face coming into impact and then matches that tendency to one of three shaft profiles to improve center-face contact.
The composite face maximizes deflection thanks to a new variable-thickness pattern arranged through 60 layers of carbon composite.
Part of that new face design includes added face curvature from the crown to the sole to produce more consistent speed, spin and launch on mis-hits.
MOI rating: Extreme
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi4D Max Lite
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The Qi4D Max Lite—a lighter weight version of the Qi4D Max—maximizes stability while giving moderate-swing-speed players more potential distance.
The lightweight components include a lighter head (the frame uses aluminum instead of titanium) and a lighter shaft and grip.
An updated design of the slot in the sole (thinner in the middle and wider at the heel and toe) improves the way the lower portion of the face flexes compared to past models.
The composite face maximizes deflection on center and off-center locations thanks to a new variable-thickness pattern arranged through 60 layers of carbon composite.
Part of that new face design includes added face curvature from the crown to the sole to produce more consistent speed, spin and launch on mis-hits.
MOI rating: Above Average
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
Titleist
GT1
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
This model has the lightest overall weight of the four drivers in the GT family but the deepest center of gravity for high stability and launch.
The lightweight balance gives moderate-swing-speed golfers potentially more control, speed and a higher flight.
The rear weight port can accommodate a heavier flat weight to fit average-swing-speed players looking for a slight draw bias.
A lightweight thermoformed polymer piece wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides to maintain Titleist’s preferred sound and feel.
That smooth look on the sole isn’t just for effect. Combined with a slightly raised rear section, the GT family creates better aerodynamic shaping for increased swing-speed potential.
A new variable-thickness pattern includes a ring encircling the back perimeter of the face to maximize ball speed.
MOI rating: Above Average
9, 10, 12 degrees (with a 16-way adjustable hosel)
Titleist
GT2
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The larger head provides more stability on mis-hits and a higher launch.
If you tend to use the entire face and swing with average to above average speed, this is the model for you.
A lightweight thermoformed polymer piece wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides to maintain Titleist’s preferred sound and feel.
A slightly more forward center of gravity improves energy transfer and reduces spin.
A slightly raised rear section and smoother lines and curves from crown to sole create better aerodynamic shaping for increased swing-speed potential.
A new variable-thickness pattern includes a ring encircling the back perimeter of the face to maximize ball speed.
Top 5 in Performance, middle-handicaps
MOI rating: High
8, 9, 10, 11 degrees (with a 16-way adjustable hosel)
Titleist
GT3
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
It has a more forward center of gravity than the GT2 and works best for golfers with a repeatable impact location looking to maximize ball speed.
The weight track is forward in the sole to allow the golfer to dial in the preferred center of gravity for better energy transfer and more directional control.
A lightweight thermoformed polymer piece wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides to maintain Titleist’s preferred sound and feel.
The lightweight crown piece saves weight so that the center of gravity is slightly forward and lower from past models for increased ball speed and less spin.
A slightly raised rear section and smoother lines and curves from crown to sole create better aerodynamics for increased swing-speed potential.
A new variable-thickness pattern includes a ring encircling the back perimeter of the face to maximize ball speed.
MOI rating: Moderate
Top 5 in Performance, low-, middle- and high-handicaps
8, 9, 10, 11 degrees (with a 16-way adjustable hosel)
Titleist
GT4
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The most compact of the four models (430cc) features a more forward center of gravity than any other GT model for the most spin reduction.
Switchable front and back weights in the sole allow players to choose between a lower-spin option and a more forgiving setting.
A lightweight thermoformed polymer piece wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides to maintain Titleist’s preferred sound and feel.
The lightweight crown piece saves weight so that the center of gravity is slightly forward and lower from past models for increased ball speed and less spin.
A new variable-thickness pattern includes a ring encircling the back perimeter of the face to maximize ball speed.
MOI rating: Moderate
8, 9, 10 degrees (with a 16-way adjustable hosel)
Honma
TW777
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$600
The more compact of the two models works well for players who prefer a more penetrating trajectory, need lower spin and want to work the ball off the tee.
Two front and back movable sole weights (21 and four grams) let the user adjust between lower spin with a flatter launch (heavy weight in the front) or a higher flight with more forgiveness (heavy weight in the rear).
The design uses new materials and construction in the fully carbon-composite body shell to stiffen the structure to prevent energy loss at impact.
An internal carbon ring stiffens the crown, and the sole features a new carbon-composite-infused titanium plate. The latter mixes the rigidity of titanium with the lightness of carbon fiber for increased stiffness with flexible strength. Together, this reduces the way the carbon body deflects at impact for a more efficient energy transfer to the ball.
The large carbon-composite shell that makes up the body now accounts for 35 percent more volume than in its predecessor, saving mass that lowers the center of gravity for higher launch and lower spin.
A variable-thickness face made from a softer, springy forged titanium alloy wraps around the crown and sole for better overall flexing.
Top 5 in Forgiveness, low-handicaps
MOI rating: Moderate
9, 10.5 degrees (with adjustable hosel)
Honma
TW777 Max
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$600
This driver targets players looking for higher flight whose game off the tee is less about shot shaping and more about the search for straight and forgiving.
The key to that forgiveness is a carbon-composite shell that comprises most of the body, saving weight that’s used to lower the center of gravity for higher flight with less spin.
The design uses new materials and construction in the carbon-composite body to stiffen the structure to prevent energy loss at impact.
An internal carbon ring stiffens the crown, and the sole features a new carbon-composite-infused titanium plate. The latter mixes the rigidity of titanium with the lightness of carbon fiber for increased stiffness with flexible strength. Together, this reduces the way the carbon body deflects at impact for a more efficient energy transfer to the ball.
A variable-thickness face made from a softer, springy forged-titanium alloy wraps around the crown and sole for better overall flexing.
Two movable sole weights in the rear perimeter’s heel and toe (16 and four grams) control hooks (heavy weight in the toe side) and slices (heavy weight in the heel side).
MOI rating: Above Average
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an adjustable hosel)
LA Golf
Face ID
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$650
The five versions here feature five face-curvature combinations (bulge and roll) based on swing speed, each designed to improve how much heel and toe mis-hits curve back to the center line.
Growing from input of staff player Bryson DeChambeau, the main thinking is that faster swings need more face curvature than is typically seen in modern driver design.
The range of heads covers different face curvature designs for swing speeds of less than 90 miles per hour to more than 135 miles per hour with adjustable lofts that run from 2.5 degrees to 13.5 degrees.
The slower and average speed models in the LA Golf lineup feature face curvatures that are generally flatter and centers of gravity that are deeper.
For swing speeds up to 109 miles per hour (most average golfers), the face curvature is a flatter 12 to 13 inches. However, for swing speeds of 110 miles per hour or more, that curve tightens from 10 inches to as little as eight inches.
The design features a cast titanium body with a beta titanium face insert.
Each model comes with an LA Golf A-Series shaft through an online fitting tool that dials in the player to one of the shaft’s five weights, five flexes and three launch profiles.
MOI rating: Above Average
2.5 to 13.5 degrees (Five models, each with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Mizuno
JPX One
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
The larger footprint of the two models uses a nanoalloy coating on the titanium face for better ball speeds, with an emphasis on forgiveness and a straight flight.
The coating increases the strength and bending properties of the titanium at high-speed impacts to create better resilience than typical forged titanium.
The increased resilience allows the face to deflect where the ball hits and in the surrounding area to store more of the ball’s energy for more potential speed.
The coating allows the thickest parts of the titanium face to get nearly 10 percent thinner compared to previous models to expand the area that generates the highest ball speeds.
A lightweight carbon-composite crown helps to lower the center of gravity for higher launch.
Adjustable hosel tweaks loft by plus/minus 2 degrees for a range of 7 to 14 degrees.
MOI rating: High
Top 5 in Look, high-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with eight-way adjustable hosel)
Mizuno
JPX One Select
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
The more compact of the two models uses a nanoalloy coating on the titanium face for better ball speeds across the face and features a neutral to slight fade bias for players who prefer to work the ball.
It features a slightly taller face with a more forward center of gravity for lower spin and a penetrating flight.
The coating increases the strength and bending properties of the titanium at high-speed impacts to create better resilience than typical forged titanium.
The increased resilience allows the face to deflect where the ball hits and in the surrounding area to store more of the ball’s energy for increased potential speed.
The coating allows the thickest parts of the titanium face to get nearly 10 percent thinner compared to previous models to expand the area that generates the highest ball speeds.
A lightweight carbon-composite crown helps lower the center of gravity for higher launch.
Adjustable hosel tweaks loft by plus/minus 2 degrees for a range of 7 to 12.5 degrees.
MOI rating: Above Average
Top 5 in Look, low-handicaps
9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
PXG
Lightning Max Lite
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
This lightweight model offers moderate-speed players the opportunity to create more distance through a faster swing.
Despite the reduced total weight, the design remains committed to stability on off-center hits thanks to a single 12.5-gram rear perimeter weight that pushes its total MOI to roughly where last year’s standard-weight Black Ops model was.
Large composite sections in the crown and across much of the sole create more saved mass for improving stability on off-center hits.
The new face design looks to match the way the face deflects with the way the ball compresses at impact for a more efficient energy transfer.
The more efficient face flexing comes about through a stiffer spined sole design that controls detrimental vibrations.
MOI rating: Extreme
10.5, 11.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
PXG
Lightning Max-10K+
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
Highly focused on extreme stability on off-center hits, this was built to be the most forgiving driver in PXG history.
It has one of the top five highest MOIs of any driver evaluated at this year’s Hot List.
The new face design looks to match the way the face deflects with the way the ball compresses at impact for a more efficient energy transfer.
The more efficient face flexing comes about through a stiffer spined sole design that controls detrimental vibrations.
Large carbon sections in the crown and sole create more space for improving movable weights and stability on off-center hits.
The increased use of lightweight composite and the larger frame raise the moment of inertia (stability on off-center hits) by five percent compared to last year’s model.
Three movable sole weights in the front heel, the toe and the rear center (one at 15 grams, two at 2.5 grams) allow players to tweak spin, launch and draw/fade bias.
An etched face milling pattern provides a secondary level of spin control to reduce dispersion, particularly in wet conditions.
MOI rating: Extreme
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
PXG
Lightning Tour
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
Built with shaping input from the PXG tour staff, this compact model offers low-spin and caters to those who want workability.
A new face design looks to align the way the face deflects with the way the ball compresses at impact for a more efficient energy transfer.
The more efficient face flexing comes about through a stiffer spined sole design that controls detrimental vibrations.
Large carbon sections in the crown and sole create more space for improving movable weights and stability on off-center hits.
Three movable sole weights in the front heel, the toe and the rear center (one at 15 grams, two at 2.5 grams) allow players to tweak spin, launch and draw/fade bias.
An etched face milling pattern provides a secondary level of spin control, particularly in wet conditions, to reduce dispersion.
Top 5 in Forgiveness, low-handicaps
MOI rating: Above Average
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
PXG
Lightning Tour Mid
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The slightly larger view at address on this model (compared to Lightning Tour) is a more forgiving frame that incorporates much of the low-spin focus of the Tour model.
Expect the Tour Mid to launch higher compared to the Tour.
The new face design seeks to match the way the face deflects with the way the ball compresses at impact for better energy transfer.
A stiffer spined sole design controls detrimental vibrations and allows more efficient face flexing.
Large carbon sections in the crown and sole create more space for improving movable weights and stability on off-center hits.
The use of lightweight composite and the larger frame raise the overall moment of inertia (stability on off-center hits) by 12 percent versus last year’s model.
Three movable sole weights in the front heel, the toe and the rear center (one at 15 grams, two at 2.5 grams) allow players to tweak spin, launch and draw/fade bias.
An etched face milling pattern provides a secondary level of spin control to reduce dispersion, particularly in wet conditions.
MOI rating: Above Average
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Srixon
ZXi
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$550
This driver fits a broad range of players looking for mid to high flight and mid to low spin.
Unlike typical drivers, the face’s variable-thickness pattern uses a thinner (not thicker) middle section surrounded by thicker heel and toe sections to create a larger area of the face with the highest ball speeds.
This unique pattern required the development of a new titanium alloy that is stronger, lighter and more flexible.
Alternating rigid and flexible regions in the crown and sole provide a power boost at impact.
The lightweight and super-thin titanium crown uses a lattice pattern of thicker supporting bands that allow most of the crown to be thinner than a credit card.
Two adjustable sole weights in the heel and toe regions provide options for creating a slight draw or fade and for dialing in your preferred swingweight.
The face’s laser milling pattern optimizes spin and adds an element of forgiveness in wet conditions.
Top 5 in Look, middle-handicaps
MOI rating: High
9, 10.5 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
Srixon
ZXi LS
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$550
This model should appeal to better players with faster swings who are looking for less spin.
The clubhead favors a fade in the neutral setting.
Two adjustable sole weights in the front and rear provide options for creating less spin or higher launch and dialing in your preferred swingweight.
The face’s variable-thickness pattern uses a thinner (not thicker) middle section surrounded by thicker heel and toe sections to maximize ball speed across a wider area.
This unique pattern required the development of a new titanium alloy that is stronger, lighter and more flexible.
The crown’s alternating rigid and flexible regions provide a power boost.
The lightweight and thin titanium crown uses a lattice pattern of thicker, supporting bands that allow much of the crown to be thinner than a credit card.
The face’s laser milling pattern stabilizes spin and adds an element of forgiveness in wet conditions.
MOI rating: Above Average
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
Srixon
ZXi Max
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$550
This new shape for the Srixon line offers moderate-swing-speed players the most forgiving driver in company history.
The ZXi Max produces a higher launch with a slight draw.
A 14-gram weight in the deep-center perimeter enhances stability on off-center hits.
The face’s variable-thickness pattern uses a thinner (not thicker) middle section surrounded by thicker heel and toe sections to maximize ball speed across a wider area.
This unique pattern required the development of a new titanium alloy that is stronger, lighter and more flexible.
The crown and sole’s alternating rigid and flexible regions provide a power boost.
The lightweight and thin titanium crown uses a lattice pattern of thicker, supporting bands that allow much of the crown to be thinner than a credit card.
The face’s laser milling pattern stabilizes spin and adds an element of forgiveness in wet conditions.
Top 5 in Forgiveness, middle-handicaps
MOI rating: High
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
Tour Edge
Exotics Lite
$500
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$500
The head is lighter than the standard Max driver and coupled with a shaft in the 40-gram range, this design caters to players with moderate swing speeds looking for more velocity and control.
This model also takes on your slice by pushing 23 grams into the heel side to create more of a draw bias. The offset look at address helps to get the face squarer at impact while increasing launch angle.
Despite a total weight that’s some 8 percent less than the standard Max, this model still has similar dimensions, and with the weight savings of a fixed hosel its MOI nears that of the Max’s for extreme forgiveness.
Carbon-composite panels make up much of the crown, skirt and sole, accounting for an 80 percent increase in coverage compared to past models.
The titanium chassis includes a thin ring that runs the circumference of the rear perimeter to provide additional structure and stability during off-center impacts.
The titanium face insert features dozens of pyramid-shaped indentations to create targeted flexing across the face for more consistent ball speeds, especially on toe and heel mis-hits.
The extra length of the 46-inch stock shaft aims to provide a further boost to speed for those with less aggressive swings.
MOI rating: Extreme
10.5, 12 degrees (fixed hosel)
Tour Edge
Exotics LS
$500
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$500
This compact head (440cc) favors higher-speed players seeking lower spin and a flatter launch angle.
Adjustable tungsten front and rear sole weights (18 and five grams) let a player dial in a preference for lower spin (heavy weight forward) or higher flight and more forgiveness (heavy weight to the rear).
Carbon-composite panels comprise much of the crown, skirt and sole, accounting for an 80 percent increase in coverage compared to past models.
The titanium chassis includes a thin ring that runs the circumference of the rear perimeter to provide additional structure and stability during off-center impacts.
The titanium face insert features dozens of pyramid-shaped indentations to create targeted flexing across the face for more consistent ball speeds.
The deeper face aligns with tour preferences, but its relatively higher stability on off-center hits will provide added forgiveness for the most aggressive swings.
MOI rating: High
9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Tour Edge
Exotics Max
$500
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$500
The large frame with its weight-saving carbon-composite panels yields the most forgiving driver in the lineup (and in company history), ideal for players fighting inconsistent impact patterns.
With almost 38 grams of discretionary mass to shore up the perimeter, this head’s stability on off-center hits (moment of inertia) measured as one of the five highest in this year’s Hot List.
Carbon-composite sections comprise much of the crown, skirt and sole, accounting for an 80 percent increase in coverage compared to past models.
The titanium chassis includes a thin ring that runs the circumference of the rear perimeter to provide additional stability on off-center impacts.
The titanium face insert features dozens of pyramid-shaped indentations to create targeted flexing across the face for consistent ball speeds.
An 18-gram adjustable weight in the rear perimeter shifts the center of gravity toward the toe to minimize a draw, toward the heel to quiet a slice or remains centered for maximum forgiveness and high launch.
MOI rating: Extreme
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)