Product Spotlight: Distance You'll Notice
Underwhelming drivers have become commonplace in recent years. Frankly, they’re a result of their own success: Because technology has gotten so darned good, it’s difficult for manufacturers to catapult your tee-shot distance by yet another 15 yards…every year. So if you bought a new model two years ago, you probably couldn’t find much on the market last year that provided you notable distance improvement.
This year, though, club manufacturers have stepped up big time with some very innovative drivers. For example, you’ll see a further emphasis on adjustability. In previous models, when you fine-tuned one characteristic of a driver, such as lie angle, it would have a ripple effect on other characteristics of the driver. That’s no longer the case with some of the newer models. So now when you modify, say, the loft on some of these latest drivers, the clubface angle doesn’t automatically veer open or closed as it did in past models.
In 2011, your toughest challenge may very well be choosing a winner from among all of the excellence.
1. CLEVELAND
Choose from three lightweight-shaft models of Cleveland’s Ultralite ($299), based on your swing type and shot preferences. If you want Tour-preferred workability, take a swing with the TL 310. For distance and control, play the SL 290. If extreme clubhead speed and lightness is your thing, opt for the XL 270 (in neutral and draw versions).
2. TAYLORMADE
TaylorMade’s white-crowned R11 ($399) is actually 48 drivers in one. That’s because you can quickly change an adjustable hosel, sole plate and interchangeable weights to 48 different combinations, each with its own unique ball flight. Just pick your preferred loft, face angle, and weight, then swing away.
3. COBRA
The tall titanium clubface of Cobra’s S3 ($375) may look like any other, but it’s built smarter than most. It’s actually hotter where most golfers mis-hit the ball: from low heel to high toe. The face also sports a beveled perimeter to help fortify the cause.
4. TITLEIST
Titleist is offering two flavors of its new 910 drivers ($399), the 460cc D2 and the 445cc D3, both of which allow you to adjust the loft and lie independently. Both models have an oversized clubface to maximize distance, a sloped crown to get the ball in the air and loads of Tour experience already.
5. CALLAWAY
Amp up your tee shots with help from the "forged composite" crown on Callaway’s 460cc Diablo Octane ($299) that was co-developed with Lamborghini. This lightweight, strong material complements the otherwise titanium clubhead, to help generate plenty of clubhead speed. The standard shaft is a lengthy 46 inches.