Everybody wants to hit the ball as far as possible, but swinging the driver as fast as Rory McIlroy is a pipe dream for most of us. Even at club level, there is a great variety in the clubhead speed golfers can generate.
When it comes to defining a slow swinger, we are generally referring to golfers with a clubhead speed under 85mph. If you're unsure what yours is, book yourself a session on a reputable launch monitor with a PGA Pro to find out. However, manufacturers have thought about golfers that fall within this bracket, producing lightweight, high-launching models that will help those with low swing speeds maximize their carry distance off the tee.
So, how do brands eke out the distance despite the slow swing speed? Well, usually the drivers have a combination of lightweight heads, grips and shafts. Because of its weight, or lack of, it means you can generate the clubhead speed you need to get through the ball, thus creating distance. These drivers also tend to have extra launch and draw bias built in to help maximize distance potential.
WATCH: We run through the performance of the best drivers in 2024
Below, we have taken a look through some of the best drivers for slow swing speeds currently available on the market, with some of the drivers also falling under the category of most forgiving drivers, as well as the best drivers for seniors.
The Quick List
Our top pick for slower swingers is the Darkspeed Max thanks to its draw-bias performance. It also proved to be very forgiving and looks fantastic.
A lightweight model that tested very well in terms of launch, the Ai Smoke Max D was extremely forgiving and we found it so easy to get in the air.
The Qi10 elevated itself thanks to the impressive stability on offer, which there helped dispersion and accuracy. It also looks great and will appeal to many golfers.
The TSR1 is our top pick for launch because of how effortless it is to swing and its lightweight construction. Add to that the visual aesthetic, and you have a top performing driver.
The Launcher XL will suit a wide variety of golfers looking for a combination of forgiveness and distance. The high pitched noise won't suit everyone but it offers good value.
There’s a lot to like about the G430 SFT driver from Ping. Very forgiving and surprisingly long, it has a broad appeal and is a model to consider if you need help with a slice.
Load the next 2 products
Our favorite looking model for slower swingers, the ZX5 Mk II has a clean aesthetic and looks fantastic down behind the ball. It has a lot of forgiveness too.
A top pick for those struggling with a slice, the Launch Pad delivers launch and forgiveness in a pretty sleek aesthetic. They offer good value as well at the moment.
Best Drivers For Slow Swing Speeds
Why you can trust Golf Monthly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Top pick
We begin with the performance of the Darkspeed Max, which delivered strong results in regards to ball speed, launch and spin. One thing we did note is that the spin was on the higher side but, if you have a slower swing speed, this will benefit you more as it will help get the ball airborne easier.
Overall, we felt that Cobra has really struck a great balance of adding some spin and launch to help the intended market for this type of driver, but not too much so as to alienate even the higher speed players that might be entertaining a draw bias option. What's more, the looks will appeal to a vast range of golfers.
With the name Darkspeed, Cobra has taken the 'dark' theme to the max. Featuring a super sleek matte black crown, the only hint of color is the word 'Max' and a couple of tiny accent dashes in red. Importantly, at address, it sits square, with the draw bias only noticeable with the flight.
- Read our full Cobra Darkspeed Max Driver Review
Best lightweight
Aesthetically, we really like the look of the new Paradym Ai Smoke Max D, with a new grey colorway being introduced. We thought that it blended seamlessly into the same (albeit refined) dark grey top edge, with the looks broadening the shelf appeal of what is an excellent driver.
Performance-wise, this driver is one of the easiest to launch, with the Paradym Ai Smoke Max D literally hitting the ball skywards. The launch comes from a rear weight that has also been strategically placed to further increase MOI and create a draw bias, with Callaway's Ai super computer pretty much creating a whole new club face!
The last standout point is the forgiveness on offer. In testing, the ball speed barely dropped by a few miles per hour when struck off centre, with the Paradym Ai Smoke easily one of the most forgiving drivers we have personally tested.
- Read our full Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D Driver Review
Most accurate
As we mentioned in our Qi10 Max review, the Qi10 Max is very much the hero product of this particular family, so much so the whole series was named after this model. The quest for 10k MOI was what the TaylorMade engineers set out on hence the ‘Q’ for quest, the ‘i’ for inertia and the ‘10’ for 10k, giving us the Qi10.
Like the Darkspeed Max and Ai Smoke, the spin levels are on the slightly higher side, which will help with launching the golf ball. What's interesting is that the length of the Qi10 Max is quarter of an inch shorter than the other two models in the range. According to TaylorMade's representatives, the feeling is that a slightly shorter driver will allow centre contact to be made more regularly, resulting in higher average ball speeds over a longer period.
Importantly, and arguably the standout, is the forgiveness on offer. The high MOI certainly worked its magic when it comes to forgiveness with the poorer strikes being flattered by the MOI on offer. We didn't see any drop off in ball speed numbers and, when you swing it slowly, that is important. Additionally this forgiveness, combined with the stability at impact and launch, meant it was extremely accurate in testing too.
- Read our full TaylorMade Qi10 Max Driver Review
Best for launch
One way in which players can gain more swing speed and distance is by using a more lightweight model and, currently on the market, there is no Titleist driver lighter than the TSR1, which is 40g less than the TSR2. This is thanks to a lightweight shaft and grip.
In our testing, we were impressed by the performance the driver delivered and, importantly, it possesses a low center of gravity that helps launch the ball into the air with ease, something many players with slower swing speeds will enjoy.
Along with its traditional looks, the aerodynamics of this club are fantastic and the speed of the ball off the clubface through impact is extremely noticeable. It also meant we were able to produce stable drives and we saw some excellent carry distances. Certainly the latest face technology also helped maintain consistency in ball speed.
- Read our full Titleist TSR1 Driver Review
Best value
The Cleveland Launcher XL is one of the most forgiving drivers on the market, with its large driver head creating an inspiring look down at address. What's more, the matte black crown looks modern and premium, while the finish also contrasts nicely with the face, meaning you can see all the loft as you look over the ball.
Along with the looks, the sound is quite high pitched and loud through impact which, although may not appeal to everyone, will suit golfers who want to feel they can swing the club easily but still get the ball up and away. This makes it perfect for those with slow swing speeds and we also like the value on offer here. The performance is good and when you get get this driver for a couple hundred dollars at select retailers, then it is very to ignore.
- Read our full Cleveland Launcher XL Driver Review
Most forgiving
Ping drivers have always been some of the most playable clubs on the market and, with the G430 range, we find that this is still the case, with the G430 SFT the most forgiving driver out of the G430 Max and G430 LST.
Within this model, the brand promises extra distance, something engineers have achieved through a shallower face, and one that is 6% thinner. Meanwhile, Variable Face Thickness delivers more face flexing, which should give golfers more ball speed on shots struck across the entire face.
Within our testing, we found it to be the highest spinning model of the range, something which will benefit slow swing speeds as it keeps it airborne for longer, with the built in draw bias also very noticeable. Certainly it is one of the best drivers for slicers anywhere on the market, and is certainly a top contender for most forgiving.
- Read our full Ping G430 SFT Driver Review
Best looking
In our testing, we felt the Srixon ZX5 Mk II was one of the best high handicap drivers of 2023 because of how easy it was to launch in the air. This is thanks, in part, to the weight that is saved by the crown being repositioned to improve the launch.
What's more, the driver also has a variable face thickness behind the face, which has been improved with Srixon claiming the ZX5 Mk II provides an extra 2mph ball speed at impact. This is because of the face flexing on the more rigid structure which brings the power.
Within the Srixon driver range, we found the ZX Mk5 II to be the higher spinning version. There is also a degree of adjustability to vary the loft and lie on the 9.5° or 10.5° heads, which will help users with slow swing speeds optimize performance off the tee box. We also want to mention the looks of this driver because we loved the dark grey color whilst the decals elevate it further, and frame the ball nicely. It offers a pleasing look at address too.
- Read our full Srixon ZX5 Mk II Driver Review
Best for slicers
This Wilson Launch Pad 2022 driver is designed to be an all-out game-improvement offering and, with simple, sleek aesthetics and its easy to launch offerings, it is certainly a desirable option for your golf bag.
In the Launch Pad, Wilson have introduced PKR face geometry which actually makes the striking area 5 percent bigger than its previous model. Along with the big striking area, the lie angle is two degrees upright to help golfers square up the face at impact, with the combination of a lightweight head and shaft helping players swing a little faster for more distance. This makes it perfect for those with slow swing speeds, as the adjusted loft and lightweight feel will get the ball going off the tee.
- Read our full Wilson Launch Pad 2022 Driver Review
How we test golf drivers
When it comes to product testing, our reviews and buyers' guides are built upon a rigorous testing procedure as well as the knowledge and experience of the test team. Headed up by technical editor Joel Tadman, and assisted by Neil Tappin, both have been testing golf clubs for years and both play to a handicap of 5. Both are also able to efficiently test the vast majority of the biggest product releases and convey the pros and cons eloquently.
Getting into specifics for drivers, we first attend product launches and speak to manufacturer's to understand the technology. We then hit the golf clubs indoors, usually at Foresight Sports and test the products with premium golf balls on a launch monitor.
Outdoor testing is the next port of call and this usually takes place at West Hill Golf Club, a course in Surrey with top-notch practice facilities. We look to be as insightful and honest as possible in our reviews so it is important to acknowledge that no manufacturer can buy a good review. We want to try and find the best golf clubs on the market and give you some insight on them, which requires being thorough and transparent.
How to choose a new driver
You've probably already asked yourself whether you need to buy a new driver, but there's a few key things to consider when investing in a new driver. Hopefully answering these questions will narrow your search down slightly and make comparing between various models much easier.
When purchasing a new big stick, it is crucial to ask yourself just what you need from it. Is distance your main priority or are you looking for something to help you find more fairways? We'd always recommend a custom fitting with a PGA Pro but if you know what you're looking for you can make an informed decision.
If accuracy is what you're after, go for something with a high MOI or adjustable weights to help alter spin and flight characteristics. If distance is key to you, look at a low-spinning driver to help ensure your ball doesn't balloon too much. If you're after something in the middle, the so-called 'standard' heads in most driver ranges will suit you the best.
FAQs
What swing speed is considered slow?
Swing speeds of course vary between individuals, but a slow swing speed is anything under 85 mph with a driver.
What flex is best for a slow swing speed?
Once again, this will vary depending on the player, but generally speaking a driver swing speed of less than 75mph requires a ladies flex, 75-85mph requires a senior flex, 85-95mph is regular flex, 95-105mph is stiff flex and anything over 105mph is extra-stiff. But this is only a very rough guide and will be affected by how the individual swings and loads the club.
-
American Pro DQ'd From LET Q-School Without Hitting A ShotGabby Lemieux travelled over to North Africa for Ladies European Tour Q-School but was disqualified on the first morning of action
-
‘To Say That McIlroy’s Season Was Not A Success Is Wide Of The Mark’To say it's been a dramatic 2024 for Rory McIlroy is a bit of an understatement, with the four-time Major winner going through multiple highs and lows this year
