Are you a high handicapper looking to improve your golf game?
With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which suits your needs best and will help you improve your game. You don’t want to waste money on a club that won’t give you the results you’re looking for.
Look no further than The 10 Best Drivers for High Handicappers. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the best drivers available on the market today, so you can find one that suits your needs and helps you take your game to the next level.
With this review, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which driver is right for you. We’ve tested each driver extensively and included detailed information about its performance, features, and more – all designed to help you pick the perfect club for your swing.
Read our comprehensive review now and find out which driver is right for your high handicap!
The 10 Best Drivers for High Handicappers:
- TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD
- Taylormade SIM2
- Callaway Paradym X
- Callaway Rogue ST Max
- Srixon ZX5 Mk II
- Cleveland Launcher XL
- Tour Edge Exotics E722
- Cobra Aerojet Max
- Cobra LTDx Max Driver
- Wilson Launch Pad 2022
TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Driver
The TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Driver is an innovative piece of golf equipment that will make you feel like a pro on the green. Featuring the revolutionary NEW 60X Carbon Twist Face and advanced Inverted Cone Technology (ICT), this driver not only boosts forgiveness but also maintains ball speed on off-center strikes. Plus, its expanded COR area, larger sweet spot and increased MOI provide a great experience for both beginner and experienced golfers alike.
The Carbon Reinforced Composite Ring frees up additional mass to create even more forgiveness, while the High Draw Design and Nanotexture cover fine-tuned launch and spin to maximize distance in any playing conditions. Finally, its Asymmetric Inertia Generator provides refined aerodynamic properties with a slippery-fast head shape that aids in swing speed, while its Thru-Slot Speed Pocket design maximizes ball speeds.
Pros:
- Improved forgiveness for more consistent distance and accuracy
- Increased COR area for a larger sweet spot and higher ball speeds
- High Draw Design and Nanotexture cover enhance launch and spin characteristics
- Asymmetric Inertia Generator provides refined aerodynamic properties with slip-fast head shape
- Thru-Slot Speed Pocket maximizes ball speed
- Contemporary clubhead shape and sleek matte black finish
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other drivers
- May require serious practice and experimentation to optimize performance
The TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Driver is the perfect choice for golfers seeking an advanced driver that offers incredible forgiveness, enhanced launch characteristics, and optimized spin rates. Get ready to hit the green with consistent distance and accuracy – the TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Driver will give you the confidence to play your best round ever.
Taylormade SIM2 Driver
The TaylorMade SiM 2 Driver contains innovative new features that make it one of the most sought-after drivers on the market.
Its Forged Ring Construction is made from a lightweight but high-strength aluminum milled to an exacting shape, uniting a massive rear weight and a full carbon sole with a crown and new milled back cup face. It has an asymmetric Inertia Generator designed with advanced geometry and aerodynamic analytics to increase club head speed. The Speed Injected Twist Face improves ball speed while protecting against mis-hits on both heel and toe sides.
Lastly, the Thru-Slot Speed Pocket, the most flexible speed pocket design ever, offers maximum ball speeds and additional forgiveness on low-face strikes. Designed with precision detail and quality craftsmanship, this driver is perfect for golfers looking to add distance while maintaining accuracy.
Pros:
- Maximum Club Head Speed
- Increased Ball Speed & Forgiveness
- Improved Design with Quality Craftsmanship
Cons:
- May take time to get used to the new features.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the TaylorMade SiM 2 Driver provides innovative features that will help you hit longer and straighter shots. With its precision engineering and quality craftsmanship, you can trust that your investment in this driver will be worth the cost. Enjoy a more consistent game and drive it longer with the TaylorMade SiM 2 Driver today!
Callaway Paradym X Driver
The Callaway Paradym X Driver is the latest and greatest driver to hit the golf market. With an industry-first 360° Carbon Chassis and new Jailbreak A.I., this driver is designed for maximum speed and stability, with fast ball speeds and low spin.
Forgiveness is also key, thanks to a generous stretched profile at the address and a forgiving shape, making this a great choice for golfers seeking extreme forgiveness with a slight draw bias from their driver.
Additionally, the club head features an ultra-thin forged titanium face for industry-leading ball speed performance and face cup technology that ensures longer drives off the tee. With its high launch capabilities and long-distance potential, the Paradym X Driver will make all your drives go farther than ever before!
Pros:
- High launch capabilities for long drives
- Ultra-thin forged titanium face for ball speed performance
- Stretched profile at the address promotes forgiveness with a slight draw bias
- Low spin for maximum distance
- 360° Carbon Chassis and Jailbreak A.I. provide maximum speed and stability
- Face Cup technology ensures longer drives off the tee
Cons:
- Not suitable for golfers seeking a fade bias
- Expensive compared to other drivers on the market
Whether you’re looking for maximum distance, forgiveness and stability, the Callaway Paradym X Driver is a great choice. With its innovative features, this driver is sure to make all your drives go farther than ever before!
Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver
The Callaway Golf Rogue ST Max Driver is the perfect club for golfers who want to maximize their driving distance and accuracy. It features an all-new Tungsten Speed Cartridge that increases speed and stability while providing a high MOI, making this driver incredibly forgiving. The Jailbreak Speed Frame also adds stability by stiffening the body of the club to provide faster ball speeds across the face.
In addition, this driver has an A.I. designed face that reduces spin and provides increased forgiveness on off-center hits. Finally, the Unibody Construction ensures this driver achieves maximum stability and forgiveness throughout your swing. With a combination of long-distance performance, speed, stability and forgiveness, you can turn your game around with the Callaway Golf Rogue ST Max Driver!
Pros:
- Increased distance and accuracy on drives
- High MOI for forgiveness and stability
- A.I. designed face reduces spin and increases forgiveness
- Unibody Construction for improved stability
Cons:
- It may not be suitable for players who like a lighter feel in their driver
The Callaway Golf Rogue ST Max Driver is a great club for high-handicap golfers who want to maximize their driving performance. With its innovative features and modern design, it has the potential to take your game to the next level!
Srixon ZX5 Mk II Driver
The Srixon ZX5 Mk II is the perfect driver for high handicappers looking to add more distance and accuracy off the tee. With its Rebound Frame’s Dual Flex Zones, it focuses energy into the ball at impact, creating a purer energy transfer resulting in an instant increase of ball speed and distance on every strike.
The adjustable hosel also provides the opportunity to vary loft, lie, and face angle to best suit your ideal launch and spin characteristics. An 8g sole weight placed low and deep in the head helps you hit straighter shots with better control.
And an intricate pattern of ridges and latticework provides the necessary structural integrity while also expanding its high COR area across the clubface for enhanced off-center strikes. With these features combined, you’ll be able to play better with more confidence when you upgrade to the Srixon ZX5 Mk II Driver.
Pros:
- Increased ball speed and distance
- Improved accuracy and control
- Adjustable hosel for launch and spin characteristics
- Structural integrity and expanded COR area
- Ideal for high handicappers
Cons:
- Limited availability of adjustment options
The Srixon ZX5 Mk II Driver is ideal for high handicappers seeking more distance and accuracy off the tee. With its Rebound Frame’s Dual Flex Zones, adjustable hosel, 8g sole weight placement, and intricate pattern of ridges and latticework, you can hit straighter shots with more control while enjoying faster ball speed and distance. For added confidence, the expanded COR area further enhances off-center strikes. Get yours today and reap the rewards of your improved game!
Cleveland Launcher XL Driver
The Cleveland Launcher XL Driver—the ultimate combination of long-distance, high launch, and forgiveness.
With its XL head design, it has an MOI of 5,200 g-cm, which means maximum distance and more forgiveness. The Rebound Frame technology works by alternating zones of rigidity and flexibility, directing more energy into the golf ball for increased ball speed and distance on every shot. It also features an Action Mass CB, an 8g weight placed inside the end of the grip for better balance and control without extra effort.
You can adjust your loft from 9 to 12 degrees with 0.5 increments across all 12 positions for added precision and accuracy in your shots, resulting in longer distances. This custom configuration is also shorter than usual at half-inch making it ideal for players who prioritize precision over distance.
Pros:
- Longer, higher launch shots for maximum distance
- Rebound Frame technology for increased ball speed and longer distances
- Adjustable loft from 9 to 12 degrees with 0.5 increments for added precision
- Shorter than usual at half-inch ideal for players who prioritize precision over distance
- Action Mass CB for better balance and control without extra effort
Cons:
- Not suitable for players who prefer a more traditional size
The Cleveland Launcher XL Driver is built for maximum distance and forgiveness. Its adjustable Rebound Frame technology and Action Mass CB weight make it the perfect club for players prioritizing precision over distance. Its XL head design and shorter than usual length make for an ideal combination of performance and accuracy. If you are looking to take your game to the next level, the Cleveland Launcher XL Driver is a great choice.
Tour Edge Exotics E722 Driver
The Exotics E722 Driver – your secret weapon to take your golf game to the next level! With its ultra-premium 460cc profile designed for maximum forgiveness, this bad boy brings a lot to the table. But what really sets it apart is its unparalleled M.O.I. of up to 5500 g/cm2.
The E722 Driver boasts a 30-gram Back Weight that, coupled with a Ridgeback spine, unleashes a power-packed performance. The Ridgeback is a power producer, acting as a brace to produce more power across the entire clubface, including the extreme perimeters. And with the additional weight being 82% closer to the face, the E722 Driver allows for greater face flex in the heel and toe so even off-center hits achieve greater power.
But that’s not all – internal Sound Diffusion Ribbing enhances the acoustic properties by directing and diffusing sound waves within the club head at impact. The adjustable hosel allows you to customize the loft and lie angle to fine-tune your E722 Driver to fit your swing perfectly.
With outstanding engineering and innovative technologies, the Exotics E722 Driver is the driver of choice for golfers who demand unparalleled power, feel, and forgiveness in their game.
Pros:
- Maximum Forgiveness
- Unparalleled M.O.I. of up to 5500 g/cm2
- 30g back weight and Ridgeback spine for a power-packed performance
- Sound diffusion ribbing to enhance acoustic properties
- Adjustable hosel allows you to customize loft and lie angle
Cons:
- Limited availability for purchase.
Tour Edge’s Exotics E722 Driver is a great club for golfers who are looking for unparalleled power, feel, and forgiveness. The 30g back weight and Ridgeback spine combination provides great power and the adjustable hosel allows you to customize your swing. The downside is that it can be hard to come by and more expensive than some competitors. However, if you are willing to invest in this driver, it will undoubtedly be worth it.
Cobra Aerojet Max Driver
The Cobra Aerojet Max Driver is the perfect club for distance and accuracy. With its ERODYNAMIC SHAPING, you get a seamless aerodynamic design that is designed to maximize your clubhead speed for increased distance. The innovative PWR-BRIDGE WEIGHTING feature uses a suspended bridge weight design to create unrestricted flexibility of both the face and sole, while positioning the CG low and forward to boost ball speed.
Thanks to its advanced artificial intelligence, you’ll also find the PWRSHELL WITH H.O.T FACE, which maximizes flexibility for faster ball speed and higher launch, which creates a variable thickness pattern across the face. Lastly, this driver offers versatile adjustable weight settings with two weights in the back and heel so you can adjust between a neutral or draw-biased ball flight trajectory.
With its carbon fiber crown and sole creating a lighter yet stronger chassis, these features combine to make the Cobra Aerojet Max Driver an indispensable piece of equipment for any golfer.
Pros:
- Lightweight construction for increased club speed
- Variable face thickness and advanced artificial intelligence for improved ball speed, launch and accuracy
- Adjustable weight settings for preferred ball flight trajectory
- Aerodynamic design optimized for distance and accuracy
Cons:
- Adjustable weight features can take time to customize and get used to.
The Cobra Aerojet Max Driver is an innovative driver for serious golfers ready to take their game to the next level. With its lightweight construction, advanced artificial intelligence and adjustable weight settings, you can maximize your distance and accuracy on the course. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, this club will maximize your benefit from each shot.
Cobra LTDx Max Driver
The Cobra LTDx Max Driver utilizes a multi-material weighting system including steel, titanium and aluminum to help position mass low and forward to create the best combination of low spin and faster ball speed for maximum distance.
The HOT Face – Highly Optimized Technology – leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to create our hottest driver face ever. A CNC Milled Infinity Face is wrapped around the leading edge for increased ball speed and improved visual alignment. The Multi-Material Chassis features a lightweight Carbon crown, sole plates and reinforced Titanium Speed Frame for optimal weight distribution for maximum stability.
With its adjustable weighting, the driver can be set with a heavy or lightweight (10G or 3G) in the back or heel to promote a neutral biased or draw-biased flight path. Whether you’re looking to crush it off the tee or hit fairways like a tour pro, the Cobra LTDx Max Driver is your perfect partner on the links.
Pros:
- HOT Face increases ball speed and launch angle
- Multi-material chassis for improved weight distribution
- Adjustable weighting for custom fitting
- Low spin and faster ball speed for maximum distance
Cons:
- Limited availability can make it to find the right model for you
- It can take some time to get used to the adjustable weighting system
The Cobra LTDx Max Driver is a great club for any golfer looking to increase their distance off the tee. With its adjustable weighting, Hot Face technology and multi-material chassis, this driver is packed with features to increase ball speed and launch angle for longer, straighter drives. This is a great choice if you want to add distance to your game.
Wilson Launch Pad 2022 Driver
The Wilson Launch Pad 2022 Driver is designed to help even the most novice golfer hit longer and straighter shots. The inherent draw bias helps you overcome one of the most frustrating problems in golf, providing more accurate and consistent shots.
Moreover, advanced computer modeling ensures a tour-proven face geometry that delivers faster ball speeds every time you swing it. Additionally, with one of the lightest drivers on the market combined with the lightweight Evenflow shaft, you will experience effortless swing speed for all players.
Pros:
- Tour-proven face geometry for faster ball speeds
- Draw bias helps deliver straighter shots
- Evenflow shaft is lightweight and provides effortless swing speed
- One of the lightest drivers on the market
Cons:
- May be too draw-biased for some players
- The lightweight design may cause some to lose power off the tee box
The Wilson Launch Pad 2022 Driver is designed to provide high handicappers with more accurate and consistent shots. You’ll surely tee off with confidence with advanced computer modeling, tour-proven face geometry, and a lightweight Evenflow shaft. If you’re looking for a driver that will help you hit longer and straighter shots, the Wilson Launch Pad 2022 Driver is a great choice.
Read more:
- Top 15 Best Golf Balls for High Handicappers – 2023 Buyer’s Guide
- Best Golf Balls For Beginners 2023 – Top 10+ Picks & Review
Guide to Finding the Best Driver for High Handicappers
As a high handicapper (18 or above), selecting the right driver can be overwhelming. Focusing on drivers offering distance and forgiveness off the tee is crucial. In this buying guide, we’ll outline the key factors to consider when choosing your next driver.
Forgiveness
As a high handicapper, forgiveness is an essential quality to consider when selecting golf clubs. Not only does forgiveness preserve ball speed and direction on mis-hits, but it can also be categorized into two distinct types: ball speed forgiveness and directional forgiveness. The club’s moment of inertia (MOI) plays a significant role in determining the level of forgiveness. This is because clubs with a high MOI are more stable and are less likely to twist on off-center hits.
While selecting a driver with a high MOI might reduce distance and increase backspin, it can go a long way in making up for poor swings by mitigating the effects of mis-hits. High handicappers are encouraged to consider clubs with high MOI to improve their overall performance on the course.
Distance
Distance is critical for golfers of all levels, no matter what level of skill one possesses. Both beginner and experienced golfers aim to increase their ball speed and club head speed to achieve greater distances. To this end, manufacturers work tirelessly to maximize the Coefficient of Restitution (COR), which is the amount of energy transferred from a golf club to the ball upon impact. Additionally, optimizing a club’s aerodynamics is a critical factor in ensuring that COR remains high across the club face. It is suggested that golfers who wish to improve their confidence behind the ball should consider using a driver that has a large 460 CC head and an elongated crown.
Shaft
The right shaft is critical to your success with a driver, as it influences swing weight, feel, trajectory, and spin. Graphite shafts have quickly become the standard for drivers, offering increased torque, flex, and lighter weight for improved launch and speed. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing the right weight and flex for your driver.
With swing speed playing a significant role in deciding the suggested flex, it’s important to carefully consider your individual needs and preferences to achieve optimal ball flight. By finding the right shaft for your game, you’ll be well on your way to achieving success on the green.
Feel
The driver’s feel through your swing and at impact can significantly affect your performance. The club’s weight should feel balanced, with no excessive heaviness or lightness. Also, the impact should feel solid, with the ball exploding off the face. Opt for a driver with a consistent feel, which most game-improvement drivers offer. However, a consistent feel can come with reduced mis-hit feedback. Strive to achieve a balance.
Looks
The look of the driver isn’t as important as its performance, but it still matters. Look for a driver with an eye-catching color scheme and sleek design that complements your game. This will help boost your confidence when stepping up to the tee box. As long as its looks don’t come at the cost of sacrificing features like forgiveness and distance, you can enjoy a stylish driver that meets your exact needs.
Price
Price is always a factor when considering which driver to buy. High-end drivers can cost more than $500, while entry-level drivers usually start at around $200. When choosing between the two, weigh up your budget and consider the features you need most, such as forgiveness or distance.
While drivers can be expensive, there are affordable options available. Typically, older models offer better deals. Don’t be surprised if you perform better with a $300 driver than a $500 one.
Finding the best driver for high handicappers can be challenging. Follow our guide to consider the most important factors to maximize distance and forgiveness off the tee.
Conclusion
Selecting the best driver for high handicappers requires careful consideration of various factors. From MOI to shaft flex, distance and feel, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing the right club for your game. With this in mind, golfers should weigh their individual needs and preferences before investing in a new driver. Fortunately, plenty of affordable options offer great value without sacrificing performance or features like forgiveness and distance. Ultimately, by following our guide, you can find the perfect driver that meets your budget and playing style – so get out on the green confidently!
FAQs
What is the most important factor when selecting a driver for high handicappers?
It depends on the individual, but typically factors such as forgiveness, distance, shaft flex, and feel are the most important to consider.
What Is MOI?
MOI stands for Moment of Inertia, which is a measure of the clubhead’s resistance to twisting on off-center hits. The higher the MOI, the more forgiving the driver will likely be.
What is shaft flex?
Shaft flex refers to the amount of bend the club has during a golf swing. Typically, higher swing speeds require stiffer shafts for improved launch and speed. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences.
Are expensive drivers worth it?
Not necessarily – while they often offer better performance and features, an older model or budget driver may perform just as well (or even better) for a fraction of the cost. Ultimately, weighing up your budget and needs before investing in a new driver is important.
Are there any tips for choosing a driver?
Test out different drivers at the driving range and compare their performance, feel and consistency. This will give you a better idea of which one suits your game most. Additionally, it’s important to consider factors such as MOI, distance, and shaft flex before purchasing. Finally, remember to think about looks and price – with the right research, you can find a driver that meets both your budget and playing style!
What is the best driver for high handicappers?
The best driver for high handicappers depends on individual needs and preferences, such as swing speed, shaft flex, and budget. Opt for a driver with a high MOI and an elongated crown for maximum forgiveness and distance. Also, look for a club with a consistent feel for better control and accuracy.
How much does a driver cost?
Drivers can range from $200 to over $500 depending on the brand, model and features. High-end drivers tend to offer more performance and features, but entry-level drivers can still offer good value. To save money, look for older models offering better deals.
What is the best shaft flex for high handicappers?
The best shaft flex for high handicappers is usually a regular or stiff option. Regular offers more forgiveness, while shafts offer greater control and accuracy. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on your swing speed and individual needs. Try out different options to find the perfect fit. For maximum control, go for a Tour or X-flex shaft. For greater forgiveness, opt for a regular flex. For a balance of control and accuracy, choose a stiff flex shaft. Finally, choose a senior flex shaft if you’re looking for an ultra-forgiving driver. All of these options are available with most drivers. If in doubt, speak to an expert who can advise you on the best option for your game.
What other factors should I consider when choosing a driver?
Other important factors to consider include the club head size, shape and design. Drivers come in various head shapes, from traditional to modern designs. Choose one that suits your style and feel preference. Also, consider the shaft material, which can affect performance and feel. Finally, consider your swing speed and playing ability to ensure the driver can maximize your performance on the course. For those on a budget, it’s important to remember that you don’t necessarily need to invest in an expensive driver – an affordable model can still offer good value and performance.
What type of head should I choose?
The type of head you should choose depends largely on your style and feel preference. Opt for a pear or teardrop-shaped head if you prefer a more traditional look. Choose a larger, more modern driver with an elongated crown if you want maximum forgiveness. Finally, if you’re looking for maximum distance, go for a driver with an aerodynamic design. Ultimately, the best head for you depends on your playing style and individual needs. Try out different models to find the perfect fit!
What is an aerodynamic driver?
An aerodynamic driver is designed to reduce drag and optimize performance. It has a more streamlined shape and an elongated crown to reduce drag and increase ball speed. Aerodynamic drivers are ideal for players who prioritize distance over control and accuracy. With the right swing, they can help add yards to your drive. However, they are unsuitable for all players and should be used cautiously. Speak to an expert if you need clarification on which type of driver is best for your game.
I’m going to be getting a new Cobra AeroJet Max and am getting a senior shaft since my swing speed is no longer what it used to be. These are my choices. I appreciate any thoughts you might have in the comparison between them. Cobra Air-X Ultralite 40 Graphite Lite Cobra Generic Drive 60 Graphite Lite Mitsubishi Tensi AV Blue 55 Mitsubishi Bassara E Series 4z UST Helium Nanocore 4F2 UST Helium Nanocore 5F2