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Ben Maroco
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Most Forgiving Drivers 2022
What value is it to you if your subsequent shots involve hacking out from the thick or slicing off obliquely from the woods if you get a new driver that offers you 4 to 5 extra yardages?
A driver that will keep the ball in play while still delivering more distance is necessary. You must give priority to the most forgiving drivers available if you want to achieve that.
The article below provides a detailed analysis of how each of the most forgiving drivers models we examined fared in five important areas, including consistency.
Although today's top golf drivers are considerably more user-friendly compared to those from, perhaps, a decade ago, your pick of a specific model from most forgiving drivers 2022 lineup might have a significant impact on your performance.
A bespoke fitting will inevitably provide you more insight into just how each of the 2022 most forgiving drivers swings for you, although we always recommend accuracy and forgiveness somewhat over outright yardage.
You may occasionally hit a shot out with a low spin and high launch that seems to stay in the air forever. Let's face it, we rarely hit the driver's sweet spot.
And that's why a driver that can minimize ball speed dips and curvature through the air to counteract the effects of mishits is priceless.
To maximize forgiveness across the face, every driver on this list of most forgiving drivers of all time will have a large head and very high MOI.
What then are the market's most forgiving drivers for high handicappers? In order to assist you to identify the short grass and eventually help decrease your scores, we've assessed each one of them and selected our finest and most forgiving drivers for slicers below.
Additionally, we advise you to read our guide to the best golf drivers for distance if you want to hit the ball farther off the tee.
PING G425 Max
Source: PING
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Left-Handed Option: Yes in all lofts
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Lofts : 9°, 10.5° & 12°
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Stock Shaft: 6 options
Upsides
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Enhanced accuracy and forgiveness over G410
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More fitting options across the three options
Downside
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No discernible distance gains on centered hits over G410
With the help of weight-saving innovations in the driver's dragonfly crown design, Ping has added a brand-new 26-gram tungsten adjustable weight dubbed CG Shifter to the G425 Max to attain the new performance levels.
To impact shot shape and forgiveness, the weight can be fixed in one of three places: fade, neutral, and draw. The average MOI increase across the three weight positions is 14% compared to the earlier G410 Plus.
The G425 series as a whole is fairly forgiving if we're being really honest, but we'd say the Max is the most forgiving of the three heads.
It has a more rounded appearance than the G410 Plus, which may appear more user-friendly to some individuals compared to the previous model, down at address.
The Max still feels powerful and has the same great sound we experienced with the G410, so this does not imply that performance has decreased.
Overall, in our testing, we think the Max, along with the other models with the G425 name, is a range of drivers that will work for every player type to maintain distance while finding more fairways. The brand has produced the most forgiving drivers last 5 years.
Titleist TSi2 Driver
Source: Titleist
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Left-handed Options: Yes in all lofts
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Lofts: 9°, 10° & 11°
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Stock Shaft: Tensei AV White Raw, Tensei AV Blue, Kuro Kage Black DC 5G, HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX
Upsides
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Excellent forgiveness for off-center shots
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Ideal for a variety of wide player types
Downsides
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Do not expect movable weight on the driver's sole.
If you're searching for a forgiving driver from one of the most well-known manufacturers in golf, the TSi2 is without a doubt the greatest Titleist driver for off-center hits.
The TSi2 appeared to be a generous size at address, but not so enormous to make it clunky and awkward.
Additionally, compared to the previous TS2, it has a more rounded toe, which greatly enhances the welcoming impression.
We also took note of the excellent impact sound, which had a great acoustic because of the pleasing "thud" sound.
The Titleist TSi2 is extremely excellent as a whole because it expertly integrates distance with consistency and forgiveness.
If you aren't fussed about having moveable weight and want a higher ball flight but still with low spin, it could be a good driver to explore further - especially if you already know your specs. It is one of the most forgiving drivers ever.
TaylorMade Stealth Driver
Source: TaylorMade
Specifications
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Adjustable: Yes
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Left-Handed Option: Yes in 9° and 10.5°
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Lofts: 9°, 10.5° & 12°
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Stock Shaft: Fujikura Ventus Red 5
Upside
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Very compelling overall performance
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Consistent ball flights, especially in the wind
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Exceptional shelf appeal
Downside
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Less self-assured than the outgoing SIM2
Golfers have become accustomed to TaylorMade introducing new driver innovations to increase distance off the tee over the past few years. For 2022, the most recent to hit the market is the brand-new carbon fiber face.
The Stealth driver's face is colored red – just to draw attention to this cutting-edge technology. Even while this might not be to everybody's taste, the color picked isn't very flashy and is rather recessive behind the ball. It pleased us.
Do not worry that the new carbon face will sound or feel boring. Amazingly, TaylorMade's developers were able to give the Stealth a good sound and powerful feel at the time of contact.
Although it could sound a little higher pitched compared to the outgoing SIM2 driver, in our opinion, it sounds great.
In our tests, we were able to increase clubhead speed with the Stealth over the SIM2 by three miles per hour. This resulted in greater distance, as one might anticipate, along with a decrease in spin compared to the original SIM.
This is the Stealth range's standard model, however, there is the draw bias Stealth HD as well, the best slicer drivers available today.
However, we believe that most players searching for a forgiving driver will find the standard head to be most suitable, and hence the top 5 most forgiving drivers .
Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver
Source: Callaway
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Left Handed Option: Yes in each loft
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Lofts: 9°, 10.5° & 12°
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Stock Shaft: Project X Cypher Black 50, Mitsubishi Chemical Tensei AV Blue, and Fujikura Ventus Blue
Upsides
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More upscale appearance compared to Mavrik
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Better feel and sound compared to Mavrik
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Generates a highly steady ball flight
Downside
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Overly pronounced clock graphic on the driver's crown
In place of the departing Mavrik line, the Rogue ST family has been launched, and it will be sold commercially in the previously mentioned Epic Speed range.
In place of the departing Mavrik line, the Rogue ST family has been launched, and it will be sold commercially in the previously mentioned Epic Speed range.
The Rogue ST Max is among our Editor's Choice honorees and is available in four different heads: Rogue ST Max D, Rogue ST Max, Rogue ST Triple Diamond LS, and Rogue ST LS.
The Rogue ST Max head is the one we think will work best for the widest range of players, so we're emphasizing it here.
The Flash Face on Callaway's new driver line for 2022 has been further optimized for spin and launch as well as ball speed using artificial intelligence.
The Rogue ST Max features a new matte crown that we loved, but the clock-style graphics at the back didn't win us over.
It is easier to align it because the face seems flatter and easier on the eyes thanks to a comparably lighter color.
While the Triple Diamond LS and Rogue ST LS have taller faces, the Rogue ST Max also features the longest profile in the range to elicit the most confidence.
Cobra LTDx MAX Driver
Source: Cobra Golf
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Left-handed Options: Yes in lofts
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Lofts: 9°, 10.5° & 12°
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Stock Shaft: HZRDUS Smoke iM1060, Project X HZRDUS RDX Blue 60, and UST Helium Nanocore.
Upsides
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Finer aesthetics compared to the previous generation
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Better sound
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Impressive forbearance and constancy
Downsides
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Marginal gains compared to the Radspeed range from last year
It the true answer to what are the most forgiving drivers. The new Cobra driver series launched in 2022 features three club heads: the LTDx Max we've highlighted here, the LTDx LS (lower spinning), and standard LTDx (draw bias) models
The Max is one of the best drivers for golfers with a mid handicap because it is the range's most forgiving model. It is why we've highlighted it here.
The Max is one of the best drivers for golfers with a mid handicap because it is the range's most forgiving model. It is why we've highlighted it here.
If you're looking for a forgiving driver devoid of draw bias, the best option is the standard head because it has a 3g weight placed toward the head's heel.
Compared to some other draw-biased drivers you'll encounter this year, the LTDx Max sits closer behind the golf ball.
Compared to some other draw-biased drivers you'll encounter this year, the LTDx Max sits closer behind the golf ball.
We were happy with the consistency of the Cobra LTDx Max as you can swing confidently at the ball without worrying about hitting a hook.
It's worthwhile to test both if you're a beginner golfer who overly slices the ball, we believe you'll discover the standard LTDx head to be just as useful.
The LTDx's crown looks quite similar to last year's Radspeed's matte black carbon, demonstrating how the design has improved (for us, Radspeed was among the best-looking drivers of 2021).
Radspeed, compared to the LTDx, the impact sound is substantially lower pitched and quieter.
We thought it was much better because it produced a nice "crack" upon the impact that felt quite powerful.
The RRP is far lower than that of Callaway and TaylorMade's rivals, as is typical for Cobra drivers, and there isn't much of a performance differential between the three companies products. It is the most forgiving drivers for beginners.
Honma T//World GS Driver
Source: Honma T
Specifications
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Adjustable: Yes
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Lofts: 9.5°, 10.5° & 11.5°
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Stock Shaft: Honma Speed attuned
Upside
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Stunning from every angle
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Remarkably forgiving for off-center shots
Downsides
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Expensive in comparison to other 2022 best drivers on this list.
Golfers with all levels of handicaps are the targets of T/World GS drivers, which puts a focus upon control and forgiveness and control above distance and raw speed.
Golfers with all levels of handicaps are the targets of T/World GS driver, which puts a focus upon control and forgiveness and control above distance and raw speed.
With a classic-looking form and discreet alignment lines that aid in aligning the ball at the address, the driver has a truly attractive appearance behind the ball.
During testing, the stability of this driver stood out right away. In our testing, we seldom lost control of the ball's flight notwithstanding the outstanding stock shaft's feeling of lightness and flexibility.
The T/World GS driver is on our list of the finest high handicap clubs because the face's variable thickness reduces spin on hits out of the toe and low, a combination that is prevalent among high and mid handicap players.
In addition to the adjustable thickness, the hosel has a Non-Rotating System that ensures the shaft's spine stays in the six o'clock position when lie and loft are changed, improving consistency of striking and flight.
The T/World GS is undoubtedly a frontrunner for the title of the best driver for 2022, despite being a less well-known brand in the driver industry.
Wilson Staff D9 Driver
Source:Wilsons
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: No
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Left-Handed Option: Yes, in 10.5°
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Lofts: 9°, 10.5° & 13°
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Stock Shaft: Mitsubishi Tensei CK Blue R (50g), A (50g), S (60g)
Upsides
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Excellent impact sound
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Sufficient off-center forgiveness
Downside
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Shaft options are limited.
The D9 driver was created using computer modeling software, which was used to simulate hundreds of possible club head configurations and determine the most efficient design.
Additionally, it has a three-layer composite crown that lightens the club and reduces vibration.
A player has the option of altering and fine-tuning the forgiveness and moments of inertia offered by choosing between a regular 10-gram sole weight or an ultra-lightweight 3-gram weight.
The look at the address was tidy and uncomplicated, and the impact noise was a delightfully quiet thud. In terms of appearance, the sole is equally understated but contemporary.
Our testing led us to the conclusion that the model is undoubtedly one to take into consideration if you desire more forgiveness from your driver at a reasonable price.
It will also benefit players whose swing speeds are below average and desire more consistent results.
In contrast, faster swingers desiring more distance may better look elsewhere.
Tour Edge Exotics E722 Driver
Source: Tour Edge
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Adjustable Weights: Yes, but separately
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Left-Handed Option: Yes, only at 10.5°
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Lofts: 9.5°, 10.5° & 12°
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Stock Shaft: Fujikura Ventus Red, Fujikura Ventus Blue, & Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw Blue 65
Upsides
Impressively forgiving
Impact sounds powerful
The sleek appearance encourages a super-aggressive cut
Downside
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Tend to rocket the ball skyward
Tour Edge is an exotics premium that seeks to compete with the leading brands having been recognized for supplying value clubs.
The manufacturer solicited input from its Champions Tour athletes, including Bernhard Langer, when designing this driver. The 460cc E722 delivers maximum forgiveness, and high MOI thanks to a 30-gram back weight, more spin, and higher launch. It also has a minor increase in offset.
A 30-gram weight is also added to the Tour Edge Exotics E722 driver's extreme trailing edge of the sole, creating a very low-rearward CG that tightens dispersion and boosts stability at impact.
A 30-gram weight is also added to the Tour Edge Exotics E722 driver's extreme trailing edge of the sole, creating a very low-rearward CG that tightens dispersion and boosts stability at impact.
Additional weights in 20, 25, and 35 grams can be purchased separately or as part of a weight kit.
We believe that this offers outstanding value for the money given the amount of playability it offers.
Titleist TSi1
Source: Titleist
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Left-Handed Option: Yes in 10°
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Lofts: 9°, 10°, and 12°
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Stock Shaft: Aldila Ascent UL
Upsides
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To be as tolerant and lightweight as feasible
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It will be of more help to slicers
Downside
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Premium pricing
Same as its predecessor TS1 driver, Titleist TSi1 is the lightweight choice designed for the moderate swing speed player (less than 90 mph) wanting ball speed and enhanced club with control off the tee.
Titleist TSi1 is among the best golf drivers for seniors because it is made for individuals who swing at a relatively slower speed.
Comparable drivers weigh roughly 40g more than the 460cc TSi1. Due to its CG placement, it has a high launch and mid spin which makes it the most draw-biased Titleist driver currently.
Engineers were able to increase ball speed compared to the TS1 by redesigning the head to bring the CG closer to the center of the face.
As one of the lightest drivers we've tested in recent years, it's well worth holding one in your hands to experience just how light it is.
Cleveland Launcher XL Driver
Source: Cleveland Golf
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Left-Handed Option: Yes across all lofts
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Lofts: 9°, 10.5° & 12°
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Stock Shaft: Project X Cypher 50
Upsides
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Having a really large head gives one confidence
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Trendy, high-quality finish
Downside
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Costly
The well-liked Launcher HB model, which was introduced in 2020, is successfully replaced by the Cleveland Launcher XL.
Designed for golfers with mid-to-high handicaps, the Launcher XL has a bigger driver head and a highly self-assured appearance at the address.
With a 6% head increase from front to back and contrasting face and crown and finishes that allow you to view the entire loft from the address, confidence is further sparked.
The Launcher XL performed admirably, providing good carry distance with a simple swing.
The spin rates produced by this driver will help hold the ball in the air and provide decent carry distance for the wide spectrum of players it is intended for.
The Cleveland Launcher XL features a significant discount over this year's offerings from brands like TaylorMade, Callaway, and Titleist although Cobra and others still pose a significant threat to it, particularly with the LTDx line.
Mizuno ST-Z 220 Driver
Source: Mizuno Golf
Specifications
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Adjustable Hosel: Yes
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Left-handed Option: Yes in 9.5°
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Lofts: 9.5° & 10.5°
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Stock Shaft: 23 custom-fit options
Upsides
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Consistent ball flight
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Decent value
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Easy to launch
Downsides
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A slight improvement over the previous generation
Mizuno has introduced a draw bias model, the ST-X 220, for golfers who frequently slice the ball off the tee.
It is a lower spinning type that combines forgiveness and power and is designed with the broadest range of players in mind.
The draw bias and mid-spinning features of the Mizuno ST-X 220 driver make it the most forgiving driver.
In our testing, we discovered that the ball speed is competitive with brands like PING, TaylorMade, Callaway, and Titleist.
Another observation we made as we approached the ST-Z 220 was how simple it was to take to the air. It doesn't spin as some other comparable drivers on the market.
Overall, we loved using this Mizuno driver during our testing. It does well across the board, from forgiveness to aesthetics.
Bottomline
The review should help you find the most forgiving driver for your game regardless of your handicap.
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