Is Callaway’s new driver worth the upgrade?
Callaway did an absolutely stellar job this year with the cosmetics on their new driver, but how is the performance? We’ve been doing tons of indoor and outdoor testing here at GolfNV which has led us to some great conclusions!
First things First
What did Callaway change from the Paradym to the Paradym AI-SMOKE? The face. This year Callaway used their Super Computer to create small pockets on the face (hotspots) that generated an overall gain of 7 yards across the face from last years model. Thats a lot! The general rule of thumb when it comes to purchasing a new driver is to switch every 4 years (usually thats when technology makes a noticeable difference), but the AI-SMOKE has proven that to be a past tense.
The Look
With a black glossed carbon crown, gloss black metal finish on the perimeter of the carbon, a grey forged carbon chassis, and blue weights, the AI-SMOKE outdid the Paradym in terms of looks on all fronts. The general consensus we hear and see at the shop is most people lean towards having a traditional looking driver rather than a colorful futuristic looking one.
Feel And Sound
If you liked the feel of the Original Paradym, the AI-SMOKE will be just for you. It’s crisp, offers tons of feedback, and rewarding when hit on the sweet spot. The sound is more of a crack then a ting noise, which is what most drivers (besides Ping) are gravitating towards. The crack sound does have some drawbacks, however, the sensation of a sweet spot shot alongside the feedback you get when you strike the ball badly create a great experience that wasn’t quite there with the RogueST or the original Paradym.
The 4 Driver Models
In the AI-SMOKE driver, there’s three different models that are all for different groups of people.
The MAX: this model is going to be the most popular model given it has low backspin, mid launch, and tons of forgiveness.
The MAX D: this model launches and spins higher, but the main purpose of it is to reduce a slice or create more of a draw shot for players in need.
The MAX FAST: The FAST is a lighter clubhead which benefits those with lower swing speeds by increasing backspin so the ball has more air time, swing speed, and ball speed to achieve longer total distance.
The TRIPLE DIAMOND (TD): With the lowest backspin out of the bunch, the Triple Diamond is a control oriented head that is most beneficial for those looking to shape shots, have as much feedback as possible, and like the look of a slightly smaller head.
Shaft Options
For the AI-SMOKE woods and hybrids this year, callaway has stepped up their stock shafts with some great options.
Tensei: These shafts have a large selection of weights and stiffness but the most well known is the Tensei blue. The Blue plays more tiff up towards the grip with a little more flex down towards the tip end of the shaft. These work great for the players with high swing speed, but more fluent tempos.
Denali: A new Project X Shaft that was made to compete with the well known Ventus Velocore. The Denali uses added materials in the tip section and higher grade material to create a more consistent flex pattern and most importantly, lower dispersion.
Cypher 2.0: The Cypher 2.0 shaft is made by Project X with the sole purpose is to compliment light weight driver heads and create more swing speed for those looking to achieve a higher launch with more backspin.
AfterMarket: Just like every other model, you can order the AI-SMOKE with any aftermarket shaft that suits your needs.
Irons
What could surpass the Paradym iron models? Certainly, the new AI-SMOKE irons can. Combining the distance-focused design of the RogueST with the precision of the Paradym irons, Callaway has created what we have been calling greatness, featuring higher loft and maximum forgiveness.
AI-SMOKE: The new AI-SMOKE iron is a hollow body iron that incorporates a slim top line, ai-smartface, and improved turf interaction all to generate more opportunity on the green.
AI-SMOKE HL: Designed with a deep cavity, this iron implements a higher launch angle, addressing challenges for individuals struggling to lift the ball or control its descent on the green.
AI-SMOKE MAX FAST: Similar to the driver model, this iron head is specifically crafted for individuals with slower swing speeds. Featuring a higher lofted design, it facilitates easy elevation of the ball for those with slower swings.
All in all the AI-SMOKE series was a great suprise to the crew here at GolfNV and we cant wait to get everyone fitted up and on the course!
If you are interested in getting a fitting click HERE and submit the inquiry for more info!