Best Drivers For Slow Swing Speeds 2024

Do you have a slow swing speed and are in need of a new driver? We run you through the leading options

A range of the best golf drivers for slow swing speeds in a grid system
(Image credit: Future)

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

Best Drivers For Slow Swing Speeds

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Top pick

Photo of the Cobra Darkspeed Max Driver

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 9.0°, 10.5°, 12°
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: 2 Options (Project X HZRDUS Red CB, UST LIN-Q M40X Red 5)
Left Handed Option: Yes, in 10.5° and 12°(Custom Only)

Reasons to buy

+
Seriously difficult to slice
+
Exceptional looks
+
Strong ball speed

Reasons to avoid

-
Head shape not as refined as the other two models in the range

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.

Best lightweight

Photo of the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D Driver

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, 12°
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: 2 options (MCA Tensei Blue, Project X Cypher)
Left Handed Option: Yes, available in all lofts

Reasons to buy

+
New color looks great
+
Incredibly easy to launch
+
Sound and feel is superb

Reasons to avoid

-
Mainly only aesthetic improvements from predecessor

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.

Most accurate

Photo of the Taylormade qi10 max driver

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, 12°
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: 2 options (Fujikura Speeder NX TCS 50 & Mitsubishi Diamana T+ 60)
Left Handed Option: Yes, available in all lofts

Reasons to buy

+
Massively stable at impact
+
Very easy to launch
+
New head shape is excellent

Reasons to avoid

-
Not as draw biased as some in this category

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.

Best for feel

Mizuno ST-Z 230 Driver Review

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 9° & 10.5°
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: Aldila Ascent Red 50
Left Handed Option: Yes, only available in 9°

Reasons to buy

+
Powerful feel at impact
+
Impressive consistent playability
+
Classic head shape

Reasons to avoid

-
May not suit low spin players after a more compact shape

In our testing, the Mizuno ST-Z 230 produced more spin than the Mizuno ST-X 230, with the profile a little bigger from front-to-back. However, both models produce very similar performance so it reinforces the idea that with this range, a custom-fitting is really important.

Certainly there is ample power to this driver, with a CORTECH Chamber (highlighted by the blue strip on the sole) providing the required distance from a range of swing speeds. Reportedly, it encases a stainless-steel weight with elastomeric TPU, which then takes stress from the clubface and creates an additional source of energy. At the same time, it locates weight closer to the clubface to create a more solid, powerful sensation at impact.

Best for launch

Titleist TSR1 Driver Review

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 9º, 10º, 12º
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: MCA MMT SpeedMesh
Left Handed Option: Yes, available in all lofts

Reasons to buy

+
Impressive carry and distance
+
Effortless to launch
+
Confidence-inspiring aesthetics

Reasons to avoid

-
Best suited to a moderate swing speed
-
Fitting is key to maximize performance

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 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.

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. 

Best looking

Srixon ZX5 Driver MK II

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 9° & 10.5°
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: Project X HZRDUS Smoke Red RDX 50 (Multiple options available)
Left Handed Option: Yes, available in all lofts

Reasons to buy

+
Simple design belies tech in head
+
Sounds better than pervious model

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited weight adjustability

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 optimise performance off the tee box.

Most forgiving

PING G430 SFT driver review

(Image credit: Kevin Murray)

Specifications

Lofts: 10.5°
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: Ping Alta CB Black 55 (5 other options available at no upcharge)
Left Handed Option: Yes, in all available lofts

Reasons to buy

+
Very broad appeal
+
Head sits fairly square at address
+
Surprisingly long

Reasons to avoid

-
Some fighting a slice may prefer more of a closed look at address

Ping drivers have always been some of the most playable clubs on the market and, with their new 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.

Best for slicers

Wilson Launch Pad 2022 Driver Review

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts : 9°, 10.5° & 13°
Adjustable Hosel: No
Stock Shaft: Project X Evenflow
Left Handed Option: No

Reasons to buy

+
Easy to flight
+
Excellent draw-bias performance

Reasons to avoid

-
Spun more than we'd want

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.

Best value

Cleveland Launcher XL Driver

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 9°, 10.5° & 12°
Adjustable Hosel: Yes
Stock Shaft: Project X Cypher 50
Left Handed Option: Yes, in all available lofts

Reasons to buy

+
Very generous head size inspires confidence 
+
Modern, premium finish

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite high pitched through impact

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.

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. Ultimately, we aim 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. This is because our team tells it how it is. 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.

Joe Ferguson
Staff Writer

 

Joe has worked in the golf industry for nearly 20 years in a variety of roles. After a successful amateur career being involved in England squads at every age group, Joe completed his PGA degree qualification in 2014 as one of the top ten graduates in his training year and subsequently went on to become Head PGA Professional at Ryder Cup venue The Celtic Manor Resort. Equipment has always been a huge passion of Joe’s, and during his time at Celtic Manor, he headed up the National Fitting Centres for both Titleist and Taylormade.  He’s excited to bring his knowledge of hardware to Golf Monthly in the form of equipment reviews and buying advice. 

Joe lives in North Devon and still plays sporadically on the PGA West region circuit. His best round in recent years came earlier in 2023 where he managed a 9 under par 63 at Trevose GC in a Devon & Cornwall PGA Tournament.

Joe's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Ping G430 Max 10K 9 degree - Fujikura Ventus Red 6X 45.75"

Fairway wood: TaylorMade M2 Tour 2017, 13.5° - Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Pro White shaft 70TX

Irons: Callaway Apex CB 24'  3-11 - Project X LS 6.5 shafts

Wedges: TaylorMade MG4 54 and 60 degree - Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 shafts

Putter: Odyssey Toe Up #9

Ball: TaylorMade 2024 TP5x 

With contributions from