Hot List
Best Drivers of 2025
Because of meaningful advances in custom-fitting, the top drivers aren’t just about power. Increasingly distance is delivered consistently and reliably in heads designed for specific swings. Maximum results can be realized because these hyper-focused models not only enhance strengths but mask weaknesses, too. Anybody can swing for the fences with relative impunity, but the leading drivers restore our confidence and embolden our once dormant tee-shot aggression. It remains true that in golf we have to play our foul balls, but mis-hits these days can often feel like home runs. Here are the best drivers as determined by our Hot List process, which evaluates excellence across three criteria: Look/Sound/Feel, Innovation and Performance.
Callaway
Elyte
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
Fits most average golfers with a design focused on forgiveness, low spin, adjustability and aerodynamic enhancements.
Callaway engineers analyzed thousands of swings using AI to optimize the variable-thickness face.
The new head shape features smoother curves for less drag without compromising off-center-hit stability or negatively altering spin or launch.
The face is designed to optimize spin, launch and distance for those who swing out to in with a slightly open face.
The forgiving frame and unique variable-thickness face provide almost 20 percent more consistency downrange than last year’s Paradym Ai Smoke.
The thermo-forged carbon crown saves weight that is repositioned low for less spin.
Three ports on the perimeter let the golfer dial in a draw, fade or neutral ball flight with a 13-gram screw weight.
MOI Rating: HIGH
Top 5 in Forgiveness, high-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Callaway
Elyte Max Fast
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
The lightest model in the family at 272 grams targets swing speeds of 85 miles per hour or less.
Designed to launch the ball higher with a slice-correcting draw bias for golfers with outside-to-in swing paths.
Callaway used AI to review thousands of swings to develop the face’s asymmetrical variable thickness so that it flexes more effectively at moderate-speed impacts.
The face design helps to optimize spin and launch while mitigating ball-speed loss on off-center hits.
A thermo-forged carbon crown saves more mass than typical carbon composite, some of which is repositioned in the sole. The lower overall weight makes the head easier to control for moderate swing speeds.
Developed through new 3-D-printing capabilities, the enhanced head shape has smoother curves for less drag.
First lightweight Callaway driver to feature adjustable weight ports (neutral and draw positions).
MOI Rating: HIGH
10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Callaway
Elyte X
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
The largest clubhead in the family improves mis-hits for golfers who tend to cut across the ball with an open face.
The head has a draw bias and two weight ports on the perimeter to let golfers dial in even more draw.
It has the highest measured moment of inertia (stability on off-center hits) of any Elyte model.
Optional heavier screw weight enables the head to reach a total MOI of 10,000—among the highest in the industry.
The new variable-thickness face uses AI analysis of thousands of swings to better match the performance needs of this type of player.
The enhanced head shape incorporates smoother curves for less drag without sacrificing forgiveness or excessively increasing spin.
The forgiving frame and new variable-thickness face improve downrange consistency.
A thermo-forged carbon crown saves weight that is repositioned low for reduced spin.
MOI Rating: EXTREME
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Callaway
Elyte ♦︎♦︎♦︎
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
The head shape is based on tour input and caters to higher swing speeds looking to reduce spin.
Designed for better performance on off-center hits compared to past TD models without enlarging the clubhead.
The AI-designed face uses an asymmetrical thickness pattern to produce consistent ball speeds and carry distances across a broader range of impact locations.
The sole features two switchable weight screws in the front and back. Placing the heavier weight forward lowers spin and flight; keeping the heavier weight back bolsters stability on mis-hits and increases launch.
A thermo-forged carbon crown saves weight that is repositioned low for reduced spin.
Developed through new 3-D-printing capabilities, the enhanced head shape has smoother curves for less drag while maintaining lower spin and stability on off-center strikes.
MOI Rating: ABOVE AVERAGE
Top 5 in Performance, middle- and high-handicaps
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
DS-Adapt LS
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$550
Features the sleekest aerodynamic shape in the DS-Adapt family.
Targeting better players with faster swing speeds, this model features front-bias weighting for the highest energy transfer and best workability.
The raised rear section and soft leading edge and topline boost aerodynamic efficiency.
Three adjustable sole weights dial in spin and trajectory, including heel and toe positions up front and a centered back position, all made possible by weight savings from a carbon-composite crown and sole plate.
Those locations for the heavy, 10-gram weight accommodate a neutral flight (front heel), a slight fade (front toe) or more forgiveness and higher launch (back).
The adjustable hosel has 33 settings for tweaking ball flight low, high, left and right.
An internal bridge-like weight near the front of the sole on the 9-degree bows toward the face to move weight lower and forward than in past models for less spin.
The interior weighting is different depending on loft to better align with the needs of players who generally swing faster and launch it higher (9 degree) versus those who need the most forgiveness (10.5 degree). The 10.5-degree stores more weight deep in the head to provide added forgiveness and launch.
The face is designed with variable thicknesses across 15 distinct regions for more consistent speed across the face.
MOI Rating: 9-degree: MODERATE; 10.5-degree: ABOVE AVERAGE
Top 5 in Forgiveness, middle-handicaps
9, 10.5 degrees (with 33-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
DS-Adapt Max-D
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$550
Slicers take note: This is the most draw-biased driver designed by Cobra’s engineers.
The more upright lie angle makes it easier to return the face to square.
The lighter head gives moderate-swing-speed players better control of the face angle.
An asymmetrical face curvature helps mis-hits off the toe track back to the centerline.
A 10-gram external weight in the heel adds draw bias, making the face easier to rotate back to square.
The adjustable hosel features 33 settings for tweaking ball flight low, high, left and right.
The face is designed with variable thicknesses across 15 distinct regions for more consistent speed across the face.
MOI Rating: HIGH
10.5, 12 degrees (with a 33-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
DS-Adapt Max-K
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$550
Minimizes mis-hits with the largest frame in the family and deep internal weighting in the rear perimeter.
Its measured stability on off-center hits (moment of inertia) is near the USGA limit and is the highest of any Cobra has brought to market.
A 10-gram weight on the rear perimeter pushes mass lower thanks to a machined aluminum housing.
Thin layers of carbon composite replace much of the crown and sole to save weight that is pushed to the back of the head for extra stability.
The adjustable hosel has 33 settings for tweaking ball flight low, high, left and right.
The face is designed with variable thicknesses across 15 distinct regions for more consistent speed across the face.
MOI Rating: EXTREME
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a 33-way adjustable hosel)
Cobra
DS-Adapt X
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$550
Features forgiveness, lower spin and a head shape that emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency.
The weight-saving carbon-composite crown and sole plate allow the internal weighting to be balanced to help maximize stability.
External weighting includes front and back ports that can be switched to reduce spin and boost energy transfer or increase launch and forgiveness.
The adjustable hosel has 33 settings for tweaking ball flight low, high, left and right.
Aerodynamic shaping includes raising the rear skirt and softening the leading edges to reduce drag; smoother sections throughout the crown and sole further streamline the overall shape.
Unlike most aerodynamic shapes that raise the center of gravity and rob distance, this model houses its rear weight in lightweight aluminum to keep the center of gravity lower so that spin doesn’t get too high.
The interior weighting differs depending on the loft to better align with the needs of the players who generally swing faster and launch it higher (9-degree model) versus those who need the most forgiveness (higher lofts).
The face is designed with variable thicknesses across 15 distinct regions for more consistent speed across the face.
MOI Rating: HIGH
9, 10.5 degrees (with a 33-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 unwanted 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 that area of the face to flex better while lowering the center of gravity.
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- and high-handicaps
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 most forgiving model in the G440 lineup features fast ball speeds across a wider area of the face.
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 piece wraps into the back half of the crown to save mass that is then converted into a 29-gram adjustable weight in the rear perimeter that allows 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 across a broader area.
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: EXTREME
Top 5 in Performance, middle- and high-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 piece wraps into the back half of the crown to save weight that is then converted into a 23-gram adjustable weight in the rear perimeter that fits into two draw settings.
The titanium-alloy face is thinner and more flexible to optimize ball speed across a broader area.
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)
PXG
0311 Black Ops
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
This model is the most forgiving in company history.
A lightweight carbon-composite crown and sole panels save weight that fills the perimeter for maximum stability.
A new higher-strength titanium alloy in the face, originally developed for airplane landing gear, deflects in a way that launches higher with less spin.
The center of gravity is deeper and lower compared to past models for higher launch and less spin.
Three widely spaced weight ports in the rear, front heel and front toe create adjustability options that range from high forgiveness to draw or fade bias.
Non-uniform face curvature fosters consistency in launch and spin on high and low shots and tighter dispersion on heel and toe misses.
Among the top in measured moment of inertia (stability on off-center hits), including an optional weighting that exceeds 10,000 total MOI.
MOI Rating: EXTREME
Top 5 in Performance, low-handicaps
8, 9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
PXG
0311 Black Ops Tour-1
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
This version is more compact compared to the standard model and targets faster swingers wanting less spin.
Much of the discretionary weight is used to position the center of gravity lower and more forward for less spin and a lower launch.
A flatter lie angle than the standard model helps to reduce draw bias.
The use of a lightweight carbon-composite crown and sole panels saves weight.
A new high-strength titanium alloy in the face, originally developed for airplane landing gear, deflects in a way that launches higher with less spin.
The center of gravity is deeper and lower compared to past models for higher launch and less spin.
Weight ports in the front heel and front toe are more tightly spaced than on the standard model to create precise adjustability options.
A heavier rear weight improves stability.
A non-uniform face curvature fosters consistency in launch and spin on high and low shots and a tighter dispersion on heel and toe misses.
MOI Rating: HIGH
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.
MOI Rating: HIGH
Top 5 in Forgiveness, middle-handicaps
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
Top 5 in Performance, low-handicaps
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 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.
MOI Rating: HIGH
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi35
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
The main model in the Qi35 family boasts a split personality, equally fitting tour pros and their fans.
The large size front to back optimizes forgiveness, and movable sole weights control spin.
The exclusive use of carbon composite in the body and face save weight that pushes the center of gravity lower than last year’s Qi10 for less spin.
The larger shape than last year’s main model provides a more stable head on mis-hits.
The company’s carbon-fiber face remains the only one in the industry, and compared to the Qi10, this fourth generation features a thicker perimeter and thinner center for more consistent spring across a wider area.
The standard sole weights (13 and one gram) align with the center of the face and are not draw- or fade-biased.
The heavy weight in the front position makes this driver a low-spin option for better ball strikers (tour), and the heavy weight in back creates a tighter range of long and short shots compared to last year’s version.
A redesigned slot in the sole improves the way the face flexes.
Chromium-tinged carbon flows across the crown for greater weight savings, and a white line atop the face makes the face angle clear at address.
Special markings embedded in the face of the clubfitting models help launch monitors track the head for more reliable data.
MOI Rating: HIGH
Top 5 in Performance, high-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi35 LS
$650
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$650
This compact but stout tour-inspired shape is built with an extremely forward center of gravity for the lowest spin.
The LS targets higher-speed ball-strikers who are losing distance because of excess spin.
Three weight ports in the sole allow users to dial in a fade or draw while maintaining low spin.
The company’s carbon-fiber face remains the only one in the industry, and compared to the Qi10, this fourth generation features a thicker perimeter and thinner center for more consistent spring across a wider area.
A redesigned slot in the sole improves the way the face flexes.
Special markings embedded in the face of the clubfitting models help launch monitors track the head for more reliable data.
Chromium-tinged carbon flows across the crown for greater weight savings, and a white line atop the face makes the face angle clear at address.
MOI Rating: ABOVE AVERAGE
Top 5 in Performance, low-handicaps
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi35 Max
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
The biggest address profile in the line is also the most forgiving with the highest launch.
A 34-gram tungsten weight in the back provides maximum stability on off-center hits.
New internal weighting makes for a slight draw bias, and a lower and more forward center of gravity results in less spin and better energy transfer.
Slightly lighter than last year’s Qi10 Max, it still pushes total MOI (stability on off-center hits) to the highest in company history and among the highest in the industry.
The longer stock shaft increases potential swing speed.
The company’s carbon-fiber face remains the only one in the industry, and compared to the Qi10, this fourth generation features a thicker perimeter and thinner center for more consistent spring across a wider area.
A redesigned slot in the sole improves the way the face flexes.
Special markings embedded in the face of the clubfitting models help launch monitors track the head for more reliable data.
Chromium-tinged carbon flows across the crown for greater weight savings, and a white line atop the face makes the face angle clear at address.
MOI Rating: EXTREME
Top 5 in Forgiveness, middle-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
TaylorMade
Qi35 Max Lite
$600
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Gold
$600
Built on the same platform as the Qi35 Max but with a lighter overall weight.
Ideal for smooth swingers with moderate swing speeds.
A 24-gram tungsten weight in the back improves stability on off-center hits and encourages a higher launch.
Stock shaft weighs less than a slice of Papa John’s pizza.
The company’s carbon-fiber face remains the only one in the industry, and compared to the Qi10, this fourth generation features a thicker perimeter and thinner center for more consistent spring across a wider area.
A redesigned slot in the sole improves the way the face flexes.
Special markings embedded in the face of the clubfitting models help launch monitors track the head for more reliable data.
Chromium-tinged carbon flows across the crown for greater weight savings, and a white line atop the face makes the face angle clear at address.
MOI Rating: EXTREME
10.5, 12 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 super lightweight thermoformed polymer piece, which wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides, helps 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 super lightweight thermoformed polymer piece, which wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides, helps 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.
MOI Rating: HIGH
Top 5 in Performance, low- and middle-handicaps
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 compared to 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 super lightweight thermoformed polymer piece, which wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides, helps 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- 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 (430 cubic centimeters) 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 with the heavier weight in back.
A super lightweight thermoformed polymer piece, which wraps around the crown to meet the sole on the heel and toe sides, helps 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)
Cleveland
HiBore XL
$400
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$400
The ultra-large face is designed for players who struggle to find the center.
The triangular shape provides stability with less volume, allowing designers to create a face that’s roughly 10 percent larger than the current average.
The triangle shape also stiffens the body to improve the sound compared to the more hollow-like acoustics of traditionally shaped drivers.
The welding line is farther from the center, improving the way the face flexes on off-center hits.
Cleveland used AI simulations of an average golfer’s swing to dial in the face’s variable thickness to maximize forgiveness.
The head’s internal weighting favors the deep center for maximum speed on off-center hits.
The unique head shape reduces aerodynamic drag compared to last year’s traditional-shaped Launcher XL2.
A wing-like structure on the heel side of the crown increases the head’s stability as it moves toward impact.
An extra eight grams in the butt end of the shaft creates a lighter feeling club for increased control.
MOI Rating: HIGH
Top 5 in Forgiveness, low-handicaps
10.5 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
Cleveland
HiBore XL Lite
$400
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$400
At 10 percent lighter than the standard HiBore XL, the XL Lite targets moderate-speed golfers looking to create more speed with the same effort.
The head’s internal weighting favors deep and toward the heel side to create more slice-fighting draw bias.
Its ultra-large face targets players who struggle to find the center.
The triangular shape provides stability with less volume, allowing designers to create a face that’s roughly 10 percent larger than the current average.
The shape also naturally stiffens the body to provide a deeper sound than typical drivers.
Cleveland used AI simulations of an average golfer’s swing to dial in the face’s variable thickness to maximize forgiveness.
The welding line is farther from the center, improving the way the face flexes on off-center hits.
The unique head shape reduces aerodynamic drag compared to last year’s traditional-shaped Launcher XL2.
A wing-like structure on the heel side of the crown increases the head’s stability as it moves toward impact for more consistent results.
MOI Rating: ABOVE AVERAGE
10.5 degrees (with a 12-way adjustable hosel)
Mizuno
ST-G
$350
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$350
Its compact shape (440 cubic centimeters) means this model targets ball-strikers looking to reduce spin and have adjustability options.
Two tracks in the sole feature seven-gram weights for changing the head from extremely low spin (both weights in the front) to maximum stability (both weights all the way back). It also can be adjusted to favor a draw or fade.
The channel cut into the front of the sole maximizes the way the face flexes.
A new beta-rich-titanium alloy makes the face lighter, faster-flexing and stronger.
The carbon-composite crown wraps around the toe area to provide more discretionary weight and balance the draw or fade bias.
MOI Rating: MODERATE
9.5, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Mizuno
ST-Max 230
$300
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$300
This oversize entry stretches to the limits of the rules to make your mis-hits a priority.
Big swaths of carbon composite in the crown and sole save weight (54 grams) that’s pushed deep within the frame to create the highest moment of inertia (for its resistance to twisting on off-center hits) of any Mizuno driver.
The channel cut in the sole extends heel to toe to create more flexing in the face on extreme misses.
A polymer filling in the sole channel houses a five-gram steel weight to further lower the center of gravity for reduced spin and a higher launch.
A new beta-rich titanium alloy (same as on the ST-G) makes the face lighter, faster-flexing and stronger.
MOI Rating: HIGH
Top 5 in Forgiveness, low-handicaps
9.5, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Mizuno
ST-X 230
$300
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$300
This head uses a 14-gram sole weight in the heel to provide a bit of draw bias while increasing how easy the head is to manipulate during the swing.
With that weight also positioned relatively deep in the perimeter of the sole, this head sports a healthy stability on off-center hits.
A high-strength titanium alloy in the face creates more potential ball speed across a wider area.
More speed comes from a channel cut in the sole to improve the way the face deflects, particularly on lower impacts.
The channel is filled with a polymer that houses a three-gram steel bar to lower the center of gravity for less spin and a higher launch.
MOI Rating: HIGH
9.5, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Mizuno
ST-Z 230
$300
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$300
Similar in profile to the ST-X, the weighting here is more neutral to emphasize forgiveness across the face.
A 14-gram weight deep in the center creates significant stability compared to the ST-G.
Additional speed comes from the channel cut into the front part of the sole, which allows the face to flex more at impact, especially low on the face.
A steel weight in the polymer filling lowers the center of gravity to reduce spin.
The deep center of gravity yields a higher launch.
The high-strength, titanium-alloy face creates more potential ball speed across a wider area.
Lightweight carbon composite covers the crown and is balanced across a piece on the sole to keep the center of gravity neutral.
MOI Rating: HIGH
9.5, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel)
Tour Edge
Exotics C725
$400
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$400
The sleeker of the two models in the 725 family yields a lower-spinning flight thanks to internal weighting low and forward compared to the E725.
Designed for golfers with higher swing speeds and consistent strike patterns who are looking to reduce excess spin.
The C725 offers more stability on off-center hits than past models with a center of gravity that is 8 percent farther back compared to the C723, making it easier to launch higher.
Weight ports housing five- and 15-gram screws in the front and back control trajectory.
Adjustable options include draw, fade and neutral positions in a rear channel and a forward position to lower the center of gravity.
Those weights also can be flipped so that the heavier weight set in back adds forgiveness and positioning it in the front lowers spin.
Rows of cross-hatched diamond-shaped indentations on the back of the face help rebound across a wider area.
The crown area is covered by 22 percent more carbon fiber. The saved weight is moved to the perimeter to maximize stability.
A ridge runs along the rear perimeter to further stabilize the entire frame and direct more energy to the way the face flexes, particularly on off-center hits.
Extra speed comes from a channel near the front of the sole, particularly impacts low on the face.
MOI Rating: ABOVE AVERAGE
9, 10.5 degrees (adjustable plus or minus 2 degrees)
Tour Edge
Exotics E725
$400
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$400
The ultra-oversized shape addresses mis-hits with the highest measured stability (moment of inertia) in the company’s history at 10,000 MOI.
An 18-gram sliding weight in the deep rear lets golfers set the head in draw, fade or neutral positions.
Rows of cross-hatched diamond-shaped indentations on the back of the face improve rebound across a wider area.
That diamond pattern features 61 shapes and seven thicknesses, with the heel and toe regions thinner than on past versions to improve the worst misses.
The crown area is now covered by 22 percent more carbon fiber. The saved weight is repositioned on the perimeter for extra stability.
A ridge runs along the rear perimeter to further stabilize the entire frame and direct more energy to the way the face flexes, particularly on off-center hits.
A channel toward the front of the sole gives ball speed a boost, particularly on impacts low on the face.
Additional weights (up to 28 grams) allow the user to adjust for swing weight and feel.
MOI Rating: EXTREME
Top 5 in Performance, middle-handicaps
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (adjustable plus/minus 2 degrees)
Wilson
Dynapower Carbon
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$550
This head targets players with average to above average swing speeds and a consistent impact pattern who are looking for more forgiveness with less spin.
The use of carbon composite in a wider area of the crown closer to the face frees up mass to push the center of gravity lower and more forward than last year's version for less spin, better energy transfer and a higher launch.
AI-driven algorithms running thousands of simulations created a variable-thickness face designed to improve both center- and off-center-hit ball speeds.
A lighter, more open internal hosel structure saves additional weight while freeing up the heel side of the face to flex better for more ball speed.
A slightly larger profile at address creates greater stability on off-center hits.
A flatter lie and more open face angle in the neutral setting appeal to better ball-strikers.
Front and rear sole weights allow the golfer to toggle between less spin and greater forgiveness.
The face curvature is now better aligned with the head’s stability on off-center hits so that mis-hits off the toe and heel work their way back toward the center line more often.
MOI Rating: HIGH
Top 5 in Sound/Feel, low-handicaps
9, 10.5 degrees (with a six-way adjustable hosel)
Wilson
Dynapower LS
$550
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$550
This more compact head (445 cubic centimeters) should appeal to better players with higher swing speeds who are looking to reduce spin to optimize distance.
Features the smallest heel-to-toe and front-to-back length of the current Dynapower family.
Aerodynamic enhancements, including a taller, rounder crown, aim to reduce drag.
More carbon composite in the crown pushed closer to the face yields a center of gravity that is 23 percent farther forward compared to the 2023 Dynapower Carbon without sacrificing stability on off-center hits.
AI-driven algorithms running thousands of simulations created a variable-thickness face designed to improve center- and off-center-hit ball speeds.
A lighter, more open internal hosel structure saves additional weight while freeing up the heel side of the face to flex better.
The face curvature better aligns with the head’s stability on off-center hits so that mis-hits on the toe and heel work their way back toward the center line better than before.
Front and rear sole weights allow the golfer to toggle between low spin and greater forgiveness.
MOI Rating: ABOVE AVERAGE
8, 9, 10.5 degrees (with a six-way adjustable hosel)
Wilson
Dynapower Max
$500
|
Golf Galaxy
GD SCORE
GD HOT LIST SCORE
Hot List Silver
$500
With the largest footprint in the Dynapower family, this head focuses on making more out of your mis-hits.
The target customer here has an inconsistent impact pattern and requires a little more spin and launch to maximize distance.
The Max features the highest measured moment of inertia (MOI) in the family.
AI-driven algorithms running thousands of simulations created a variable-thickness face designed to improve center- and off-center-hit ball speeds.
A lighter, more open internal hosel structure saves additional weight while freeing up the heel side of the face to flex better.
The face curvature better aligns with the head’s stability on off-center hits so that mis-hits off the toe and heel work their way back toward the center line better than before.
A back weight in the deep center of the perimeter features a heavier slug of tungsten on one side to create the option of a neutral or slight draw bias.
MOI Rating: HIGH
9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with a six-way adjustable hosel)