Ben Hogan PTX LST Driver Review

When it comes to high-end golf equipment, the conversation has long been dominated by a handful of major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). However, in recent years, brands operating on a direct-to-consumer model have made a name for themselves by offering premium clubs at a significantly reduced cost simply by missing out the ‘middle man’. Let's see if the PTX LST driver can compete with some of the best drivers in the game...

Ben Hogan Golf, in particular, stands out not just for its value but for its sophisticated design language; with irons like the PTX Tour, FT Worth MB, and Legend, Hogan has consistently proven that DTC brands can lead the way in aesthetics, and the PTX LST driver will be looking to continue that trend.

Ben Hogan PTX LST Driver Review: Technology

The Ben Hogan PTX LST driver is engineered with a clear focus on delivering a penetrating ball flight for high-speed players (I would be suggesting north of 100 mph with the driver).

It's 4-piece construction features what Hogan calls a “hot face” with variable thickness and a carbon-fiber crown to maximize ball speed and forgiveness. A key technology is the "Speed Slot," which has been designed to enhance aerodynamics to reduce drag while also helping to optimize the CG. Furthermore, discretionary weight is positioned forward in the head, closer to the face, to actively reduce spin and lower the launch angle.

This design is complemented by a proprietary adjustment sleeve, which allows golfers to fine-tune the loft and lie by two degrees, providing a highly customizable, low-spin profile for those who demand ultimate control and distance.

Ben Hogan PTX LST Driver Review: Looks

From the moment you place it behind the ball, the driver's aesthetic is absolutely out of the top drawer. Its sleek, all-black profile with a carbon-fiber crown and a subtle "Speed Slot" on the side exudes confidence and a sense of classic, purposeful design. This sophisticated look is for me a hallmark of the Hogan brand and a significant factor that sets it apart from many other value-driven offerings.

The designers have ticked the boxes from all angles for me with the "in the bag" perspective, complementing the neat playing position beautifully. It can be a tricky balance offering something visually pleasing and interesting without it spilling over into being fussy or busy, but it has been executed perfectly here, in my opinion, with subtle functional shaping and a sparing use of colour.

Ben Hogan PTX LST Driver Review: Performance

The performance of the PTX LST driver does not disappoint either. In testing, the club consistently produced strong ball speeds, comparable to even some of the quicker drivers on the market, such as the Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond or the TaylorMade Qi35, leading to impressive carry and total distance.

The low-spin output, as the name suggests, was a standout feature and created a powerful, penetrating ball flight that cut through the windy test conditions with ease. The feedback at impact is another area where the driver truly shines. The feel is exceptionally solid and powerful, providing a rewarding sensation on well-struck shots that is every bit as satisfying as its premium-priced competitors.

Ben Hogan PTX LST Driver Review: Final Thoughts

This driver serves as a clear signal that the days of a severe performance drop-off between "major" brands and smaller DTC companies may be behind us. The gap has never been smaller, and with a world increasingly focused on value without sacrificing quality, a shift in the market could be on the horizon.

Available from £279.99/$379.99, and with numerous customisable options, the Ben Hogan PTX LST driver is a fantastic example of a brand hitting all the right notes—aesthetics, performance, and price—and it's a driver that serious golfers should be putting on their list to try.