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The Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Battle – Who Comes Out on Top? Max, Max D, 3DDD or Max Fast:
Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Battle
Last year, Callaway introduced the Callaway Paradym range of drivers. These were some of the best-selling drivers used extensively on the PGA and DP World Golf Tours.
This year, they have a new range of drivers called the Callaway Ai Smoke Drivers (Paradym is still used but not as extensively), and within this range, they have 4 variations:
the Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Max, Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Max D, Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Max Fast and Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Triple Diamond. In this article, we closely examine all four drivers and see which might be best for your game.
Summary
- Max Driver: Offers high forgiveness and adjustability, making it suitable for many players.
- Max Fast Driver: Ideal for those looking for lightweight, easy-to-swing clubs with high MOI.
- Max D Driver: Best for players aiming to enhance their draw shots with a forgiving, high MOI design.
- Triple Diamond Driver: Tailored for skilled players prioritising workability and control with a compact head and neutral-to-fade bias.
Let’s take a look at what some of the top reviewers say about these clubs.
Here’s a summary of Rick Shiels’ main points from his review of the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond driver:
- Introduction to the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Driver: Rick Shiels begins by noting that the Callaway Ai Smoke driver is claimed to be one of the most forgiving drivers Callaway has ever made, with the potential for very long shots.
- Overview of the Driver Lineup: He mentions there are four drivers in the lineup, focusing on three models in his review: the Max version (standard), the Max D (draw-bias), and the Triple Diamond (low spin, for better players). Fourth, the Max Fast is designed for maximum forgiveness with a lighter shaft and grip aimed at slower swing speeds.
- Key Features and Technology:
- The drivers feature the Ai Smart Face, designed using thousands of real golfer swing data, optimizing launch conditions and ball flight.
- Micro deflections in the club face create multiple sweet spots, enhancing forgiveness.
- A lighter carbon chassis (15% lighter) distributes weight for speed, aerodynamics, and forgiveness.
- Price Point: Shiels notes the drivers are priced at around $569, within the typical range for modern drivers.
- Personal Testing and Impressions:
- Shiels found the drivers on the range stunning, with a pleasing sound and feel similar to Callaway’s original Epic driver.
- He experienced very strong performance even on off-centre hits, particularly with the Max and Max D models.
- The Max D significantly reduces right-side misses (slices).
- The Triple Diamond model offered noticeably longer shots, though with a drop-off in performance on mis-hits.
- On-Course Testing: Shiels gravitated towards the Max model for its forgiveness and distance. The Triple Diamond was longer but less forgiving on mis-hits. He also noted the adjustable weights in the Triple Diamond for spin control.
- Launch Monitor Data: In his studio testing:
- The Max driver showed solid carry and total distance with optimal spin.
- The Max D dramatically favored left-side shots.
- The Triple Diamond achieved the longest drives, particularly on well-struck shots.
- Conclusion: Rick Shiels concludes that the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke lineup is solid, with each model catering to different player needs. He emphasizes the Triple Diamond’s potential for distance while acknowledging the overall high quality of the driver lineup.
Here’s a summary of James Robinson’s main points from his review of the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke drivers:
- Initial Impressions: Robinson highly regards the previous Callaway Smoke Ai driver, labelling it as the best he’s ever tested. He acknowledges Callaway’s challenge in improving such a successful model by introducing the Paradym Ai Smoke.
- New Driver Lineup: He introduces the Callaway Ai Smoke driver, particularly the Triple Diamond version, as part of a three-driver lineup. He aims to test them against the previous year’s model to assess improvements, particularly in forgiveness.
- Testing Approach: Robinson conducts thorough testing indoors for data and on the golf course for real-world performance. He praises the driver’s appearance, sound, and feel, noting these were impressive aspects of the previous Paradym model.
- Key Features and Performance:
- The new Ai Smart Face technology is highlighted, designed for optimized launch and spin.
- Robinson observes a seemingly larger sweet spot and an easy launch with pleasing sound and feel.
- He notes the fade bias of the Triple Diamond version and experiments with weight settings.
- Feedback on Design and Adjustments: While liking the overall design and smoked look, he is not a fan of the AI branding on the heel, preferring a stealthier appearance.
- On-Course Experience: Robinson finds the driver easy to launch and forgiving on off-centre hits. He is impressed with the consistency and distance control during on-course testing.
- Sound and Feel: He emphasizes the improved sound and feel of the new driver compared to its predecessor, suggesting it’s a significant upgrade.
- Technical Innovations: Robinson delves into the technical aspects, such as the 360 carbon wrap, AI smart face, and the newly refined carbon chassis that’s 15% lighter. He finds these features contribute to enhanced forgiveness and better launch conditions.
- Comparison with Previous Model: In studio testing, he compares the new Callaway Ai Smoke driver with last year’s model, finding the new version maintains or increases ball speed and offers slightly more forgiveness.
- Final Thoughts: Robinson concludes that Callaway has successfully refined the Paradym series with the Ai Smoke range. He appreciates the continuity in the Paradym line and believes the new model will be a hit in 2024. He emphasizes the subjective nature of the driver’s appeal regarding aesthetics and sound but finds it a strong successor to the previous model.
Robinson’s review provides a detailed and nuanced view of the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond driver, highlighting its technological advancements, enhanced performance, and overall appeal to golfers.
Here’s a summary of Mark Crossfield’s review of the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond driver:
- Introduction and First Impressions: Crossfield introduces the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke range, including the Max, Triple Diamond, and Max D models. He notes their premium appearance and questions the appeal of the ‘smoke’ finish regarding shelf appeal, though he acknowledges it doesn’t affect performance.
- Design and Aesthetics: He comments on the visual similarities between the Max and Triple Diamond models. Crossfield is not a huge fan of the smoke finish but appreciates the club’s overall classy and well-made appearance.
- Sound and Feel: All models, including the Max D (draw version), are noted for their solid sound and feel. Crossfield highlights the seamless transition in feel between the Max and Max D, making them more appealing for a broader range of golfers.
- Performance Testing: He tests the drivers for sound, feel, and performance, noting particularly the high toe strikes and how the AI Smart Face technology should assist in such situations. The Max D model proves effective in its draw bias.
- Triple Diamond Model: This model appears smaller and is expected to be the longest on paper. Crossfield finds it delivers a solid feel and impressive ball speed, with a slight preference for its feel compared to the other models.
- AI Smart Face Technology: The new AI technology, which involves micro deflections to optimize launch and spin, is discussed. He acknowledges the complexity of this technology, designed to maximize performance across the face.
- Driver Adjustments and Customization: The review covers the adjustability features in the drivers, including changeable weights in the Max and Triple Diamond models.
- Price Point: Crossfield notes the premium pricing of the drivers, in line with Callaway’s market positioning.
- Performance Numbers and Game Testing: He provides detailed data from his testing, noting top-end ball speeds with the drivers and the distinct performance characteristics of each model.
- Concluding Thoughts: Crossfield concludes that while the new models are solid performers and live up to Callaway’s reputation for quality, he doesn’t observe a significant difference in dispersion or face performance compared to other high-end drivers. He would include them in his testing if seeking a new driver but suggests that the AI Smart Face technology, while interesting, may not be a game-changer for most golfers.
Overall, Crossfield’s review presents a balanced view of the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond driver, acknowledging its quality and technological advancements while maintaining a critical perspective on its real-world benefits for different golfers. Let’s take a look at the four Callaway Ai Smoke Drivers.
Callaway Ai Smoke Max Driver
Introducing the Paradym Ai Smoke Max Driver, a groundbreaking achievement in Callaway’s journey with Artificial Intelligence. This driver sets a new standard in golf technology, featuring Callaway’s most advanced driver face to date – the Ai Smart Face. Crafted using real player data and advanced machine learning, the Ai Smart Face boasts a series of sweet spots for unparalleled performance.
Key Features & Benefits
- World’s First Ai Smart Face: Utilizing actual golfer data, the Ai Smart Face is engineered to optimize driver performance. It analyzes swing dynamics from thousands of real players, including speed, club delivery, and face orientation at impact. This results in optimal launch conditions and precise downrange dispersion.
- Multi-Sweet Spot Technology: Through Ai Smart Face technology, micro deflections are activated on impact, enhancing launch and spin, even on off-centre shots. Sweet spots are not confined to the centre but are distributed across the face.
- Innovative Carbon Chassis Design: The Paradym Ai Smoke Max features a 360° Carbon Chassis that is 15% lighter, thanks to an internal titanium support structure. This reduction in weight allows for increased weight distribution within the head, improving launch conditions and enhancing forgiveness.
- Adjustable Perimeter Weighting: With its forgiving shape and adjustable perimeter weighting, the Ai Smoke MAX driver offers up to 19 yards of shot shape correction, tailoring to your preferred shot shape.
Specifications
- Head Size: A generous 460cc for optimal impact.
- Standard Length: Measures 45.75 inches.
- Lie: Set at 58°.
- Adjustable Loft Options: Available in 9°, 10.5°, and 12.0°. The driver is fully adjustable to suit your game (adjustment tools not included).
- Grip: Fitted with the Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 for enhanced control and feel.
- Shaft Options:
- Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue 50 (R/S): Designed for Mid-High Launch and Spin.
- Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue 60 (S/X): Ideal for Mid Launch and Spin.
- Project X Cypher 2.0 (A): Perfect for High Launch and Spin.
Callaway Ai Smoke Max Fast Driver
Introducing the Paradym Ai Smoke Max Fast Driver, a significant breakthrough in Callaway’s AI-driven golf technology. This driver family boasts the most advanced driver face in Callaway’s history – the Ai Smart Face. Using real player data and sophisticated machine learning, it features a unique series of sweet spots across the face, making it a top choice for players seeking lightweight, easy-to-swing performance.
Key Features & Benefits
- World’s First Ai Smart Face Technology: Utilizing real golfer data, the Ai Smart Face optimizes driver performance based on swing dynamics from thousands of players. The Swing Code, encompassing swing speed, club delivery, and face orientation just before impact, ensures optimal launch and precise downrange dispersion.
- Multiple Sweet Spots for Enhanced Performance: The Ai Smart Face technology employs micro deflections upon impact, optimizing launch and spin even on off-centre hits. This results in numerous sweet spots throughout the face, not just at the centre.
- Innovative Lighter, Stronger Carbon Chassis: The 360° Carbon Chassis has undergone enhancements to increase weight distribution. An added internal titanium support structure makes the Carbon Chassis 15% lighter, redistributing this mass into the clubhead for improved launch conditions and increased forgiveness.
- Confidence-Boosting Driver Shape: The Max Fast Driver features a high MOI and a stretched profile at the address, ideal for players looking for an easy launch. The fixed hosel and rear weight design make this driver a prime choice for those seeking lightweight, easy-to-swing performance.
Specifications
- Head Size: Robust 460cc for a substantial impact.
- Standard Length: 45.75 inches.
- Lie: 59.5°.
- Loft Options (Right-Handed Only): Available in 9°, 10.5°, and 12.0°. Fully adjustable to fit your play style (adjustment tools not included).
- Grip: Fitted with the comfortable Winn Dri-Tac Lite 2.0.
- Shaft Options:
- Mitsubishi Tensei Blue/Silver 40 (R2 – A): Optimized for High Launch and Spin.
Sure, here’s the revised content for the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D Driver:
Callaway Ai Smoke Max D Driver
Introducing the Paradym Ai Smoke Max D Driver, a significant advancement in Callaway’s AI-driven golf technology. This driver family showcases the most advanced driver face created by Callaway – the Ai Smart Face. Utilizing real player data and cutting-edge machine learning, it features a series of meticulously crafted sweet spots across the face. The Max D Driver, with its high MOI and elongated profile at the address, is specifically designed for players aiming to hit a draw consistently.
Specifications
- Head Size: A solid 460cc for impactful performance.
- Standard Length: 45.75 inches.
- Lie: 60°.
- Adjustable Loft Options: Available in 9°, 10.5°, and 12.0°. Fully adjustable to match your playing style (adjustment tools not included).
- Grip: Equipped with the Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 for optimal handling.
- Shaft Options:
- Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue 50 (R/S): Ideal for Mid-High Launch and Spin.
- Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue 60 (S/X): Suitable for Mid Launch and Spin.
- Project X Cypher 2.0 (A): Designed for High Launch and Spin.
Key Features & Benefits
- World’s First Ai Smart Face™: The Ai Smart Face is a groundbreaking innovation, optimizing driver performance based on swing dynamics gathered from thousands of real golfers. This Swing Code includes swing speed, club delivery, and face orientation at impact, ensuring optimal launch conditions and precise downrange accuracy.
- Multiple Sweet Spot Design: Ai Smart Face technology activates micro deflections upon impact, enhancing launch and spin even on off-centre hits. This results in a variety of sweet spots across the entire face.
- Revolutionary Carbon Chassis: The 360° Carbon Chassis has been re-engineered for improved weight distribution. Incorporating an internal titanium support structure makes it 15% lighter, with the redistributed mass enhancing launch conditions and forgiveness.
- Confidence-Inducing Driver Shape: The Max D Driver’s high MOI and extended profile at the address is optimal for players looking to achieve a draw. The rear weight stabilizes the head and increases launch, providing a reliable and consistent draw on the course.
Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Triple Diamond
Introducing the Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Driver, a significant advancement in Callaway’s AI technology. This driver family boasts the most advanced driver face in Callaway’s history, the Ai Smart Face, which is the result of using real player data and sophisticated machine learning.
The Triple Diamond model, with its neutral-to-fade biased face progression and compact head size, is specifically designed for better players who value workability off the tee.
Key Features & Benefits
- World’s First Ai Smart Face™: Utilizing real-world data, the Ai Smart Face optimizes driver performance based on swing dynamics from thousands of golfers. This includes swing speed, club delivery, and face orientation at impact, ensuring optimal launch conditions and precise downrange accuracy.
- Innovative Multiple Sweet Spot Design: The Ai Smart Face technology activates micro deflections upon impact, optimizing launch and spin, even on off-centre shots. This technology results in numerous sweet spots throughout the face.
- Revolutionary Carbon Chassis: The 360° Carbon Chassis has been refined to be 15% lighter by incorporating an internal titanium support structure. This reduction in weight allows for a better weight distribution within the head, enhancing launch conditions and increasing forgiveness.
- Designed for Workability: The Triple Diamond model has a neutral-to-fade biased face and a compact overall head size, ideal for skilled players seeking control and workability. A 14g weight can be repositioned from the rear to the front to increase ball speed and lower spin.
Specifications
- Head Size: A more focused 450cc for enhanced control.
- Standard Length: 45.75 inches.
- Lie: 57°.
- Adjustable Loft Options: Available in 8° (RH Only), 9°, and 10.5°. Fully adjustable for a customized fit (adjustment tools not included).
- Grip: Equipped with the Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 for superior feel and handling.
- Shaft Options:
- Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue 50 (S): Best for Mid-High Launch and Spin.
- Project X Denali Black 60 (S/X): Ideal for Mid-Low Launch and Spin.
- Project X Denali Black 70 (S/X): Perfect for Low Launch and Spin.
Here’s a comparison of the four different types of Callaway Ai Smoke drivers, highlighting the pros and cons of each:
1. Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Max Version
Pros:
- High Forgiveness: Utilizes Ai Smart Face for a series of sweet spots, enhancing performance on off-centre hits.
- Sophisticated Design: Features the most advanced driver face in Callaway history.
- Adjustable Perimeter Weighting: Provides up to 19 yards of shot shape correction, suitable for a wide range of players.
Cons:
- Less Workability: Its forgiving nature might limit workability for skilled players who prefer more control.
- Standard Head Size: Standard 460cc head may not appeal to players looking for a more compact design.
2. Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Max Fast Version
Pros:
- Lightweight Design: Ideal for players seeking easy-to-swing, high-speed performance.
- Enhanced Forgiveness: Incorporates Ai Smart Face with multiple sweet spots.
- High MOI: Offers a stretched profile at address for easy launch, boosting confidence.
Cons:
- Specific Player Targeting: Primarily designed for players seeking lightweight performance, which might not suit all swing types.
- Limited Adjustability: Does not offer as much customization in weight distribution as some other models.
3. Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Max D Version
Pros:
- Draw Bias: Designed for players looking to hit a draw consistently.
- High MOI and Forgiving Shape: Aids in stabilizing shots and increasing launch.
- Ai Smart Face Technology: Ensures optimal performance even on off-centre hits.
Cons:
- Specific Skill Requirement: Best suited for players specifically seeking to improve their draw shots.
- Slightly Higher Lie Angle: Some players may need adjustment to the 60° lie angle.
4. Callaway Ai Smoke Driver Triple Diamond Version
Pros:
- Workability: Neutral-to-fade bias and compact head size offer enhanced workability for skilled players.
- Weight Adjustability: 14g weight can be repositioned to alter ball speed and spin.
- Sophisticated Ai Smart Face: Provides multiple sweet spots for varied play styles.
Cons:
- Targeted at Better Players: Its features are specifically tailored for skilled players, which might not be ideal for beginners or high handicappers.
- Compact Head Size: The 450cc head size may be less forgiving than the standard 460cc.
To see fantastic product reviews and the latest golf equipment, visit our YouTube Channel, where resident golf professional Mark Crossfield highlights the best in golf.