How to choose a new driver

Choosing the right driver can be a challenging decision when getting new clubs. This guide aims to make the process easier and improve your accuracy on the fairway.

When selecting a driver, there is often a trade-off. Increasing the loft adds more spin, enhancing accuracy but sacrificing some distance and roll-out. Ideally, we aim for a lower lofted driver that launches high, reducing spin and maximizing distance. However, going too low on loft removes spin, making it harder to hit accurately. Our goal is to hit more fairways, so finding the right balance is crucial.

Choosing the shaft is an exciting part of the fitting process. A lighter shaft allows for faster swing speed and more club head speed, but it may increase spin. On the other hand, a heavier shaft improves rhythm and tightens dispersion, but if too heavy, it may affect getting the ball in the air. We need to find the shaft that suits you best.

XXIO drivers are the lightest on the market, perfect for those looking to increase their driver speed, swing speed, ball speed, and overall distance. Brands like Srixon, Cleveland, Callaway, and TaylorMade cater to players with slightly higher swing speeds, offering slightly heavier shafts. We can swap shafts to ensure the right fit for your swing.

Driver shafts come in various weights. Below 50 grams is ideal for slower swing speeds, 50 to 60 grams suits most players who hit it a bit harder but maintain a smooth rhythm, and 60 grams and above are suitable for those with fast and powerful swings while maintaining a steady tempo. Additionally, shafts come in different flex options, ranging from regular to extra extra stiff, depending on swing speed and power. Flex acts like coiling a spring: lighter shafts work better for slower swing speeds, allowing for easier unloading and more launch and distance. If you tend to hit a draw, a slightly heavier, stiffer shaft helps straighten it out. Conversely, a lighter shaft assists in correcting a fade or slice and may introduce a draw. XXIO drivers feature softer, lighter shafts, resulting in easier launch, distance, and a slight draw bias. Other brands like TaylorMade, Callaway, Srixon, and Cleveland generally suit players with slightly faster or mid swing speeds, but we can still customize the shaft selection for you.

Here are a few additional tips: adjustable drivers are excellent for fine-tuning your game, allowing you to adjust the weight on the club's sole. They are also beneficial for players still working on their game, as the driver setup can be perfected over time. While lower loft helps hit the ball farther, it may also reduce accuracy. If you struggle with driving, consider a driver with a bit more loft and weight at the back, providing forgiveness. If you have a powerful swing like Rory McIlroy, a driver with weight at the front produces high bombs.

In summary, choose a driver head that you like while ensuring it suits your needs. If you select a loft of nine degrees or less, make sure you can still achieve a high launch. Lighter shafts tend to launch higher with a draw bias, while heavier shafts enhance accuracy. Lighter shafts around 50 grams are great for high launch and more distance, while heavier shafts around 60 or 65 grams improve accuracy. Softer flex allows for easier distance, but stiffer shafts match well with powerful swings. XXIO drivers are not adjustable but are incredibly forgiving and suited for slower swing speeds. All our drivers come with headcovers, and adjustable ones include a tool for on-the-fly changes. We prioritize after-sale service and offer free and enjoyable driver fittings in our 11 Golf Warehouse stores nationwide. Bring your old driver, and we'll demonstrate the gains and differences you can expect with a new one. We have incredible technology available in-store, so come visit us and get sorted with your new driver.

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