New 'Prototype' Ping Mini Driver Spotted On USGA Conforming List

Mini drivers have grown in popularity and now, prior to the start of the 2026 season, a Ping model has appeared on the USGA Conforming List

A Ping Prototype mini driver on a white background
(Image credit: USGA)

So far, at the end of 2025 and the early stages of 2026, we've seen multiple intriguing clubs hit the USGA Conforming List, with the newest addition coming from Ping.

Mini drivers have become more prominent over the last few years and, while we've seen models from the likes of TaylorMade, Callaway, Titleist, PXG and recently Cobra with its new King Tec-MD mini driver, we've never seen one from Ping... until now.

Justin Rose with his TaylorMade mini driver

Mini drivers have grown in popularity on the PGA Tour, being used by the likes of Ryder Cup stars Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Appearing the Monday of the Sony Open in Hawaii and the Dubai Invitational, Ping's mini driver was spotted on the USGA's Conforming List, specifically a "Prototype" model.

Like any club that hits the Conforming List, information is limited, but the word 'prototype' is clearly displayed on the sole of the head, as is the loft number, which is 13°.

Other notable factors are the adjustable weight port at the back, which is clearly identified by 'fade' and 'draw' settings. There's also an adjustable hosel, as well as 'Spinsistency' on the face, which can be found in Ping's fairway woods and hybrids.

A Ping Prototype mini driver on a white background

(Image credit: USGA)

Left and right-hand versions of the mini driver are on the USGA Conforming List, which means there is a chance we could see the Ping Prototype mini driver in play in Dubai or Hawaii.

One possible player could be Ping staffer and recent Korn Ferry Tour graduate Christo Lamprecht. One of the biggest hitters in the world, the South African is known for his unique set-up, which features two drivers and five wedges.

Speaking back in May of last year, Lamprecht stated: "I've now got a semi-mini-driver. It's 14-degrees of loft, shorter shaft and it goes a really good number out here."

Reportedly, the model will be limited to Tour players only. Like we saw with other mini drivers, though, it doesn't necessarily mean it won't eventually hit retail, but time will tell on that.

Matt Cradock
Staff Writer

Matt joined Golf Monthly in February 2021 covering weekend news, before also transitioning to equipment and testing. After freelancing for Golf Monthly and The PGA for 18 months, he was offered a full-time position at the company in October 2022 and continues to cover news and social media.

Taking up the game when he was just seven years of age, Matt made it into his county squad just a year later and continues to play the game at a high standard, with a handicap of around 2-4. To date, his best round is a six-under-par 66 having been seven-under through nine.

Matt’s current What’s In The Bag?

Driver: Honma TW747, 8.75°

Fairway Wood: Ping G430 LST 15°, 19°

Irons: TaylorMade P7CB

Wedges: Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 Tour Satin, 50°, 56°, 60°

Putter: Cleveland TFI 2135 Satin Cero

Ball: Titleist Pro V1

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