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Cobra Darkspeed Drivers – LS, X or Max? The #1 Ultimate Guide
Cobra Darkspeed Drivers – LS, X or Max? The Ultimate Guide
Cobra Golf has been synonymous with exceptional drivers for years, and 2024 is no exception. The new Cobra Darkspeed drivers are one of their best. They consist of three versions: the Cobra DarkSpeed LS Driver, the Cobra DarkSpeed X Driver and the Cobra DarkSpeed Max Driver. Each driver has its merits, and we assess which one might suit your game.
What do the top YouTube Reviewers think of the Cobra Darkspeed Drivers
Rick Shiels’ review of the new Cobra Darkspeed drivers. Here’s a summary of the key points he mentioned:
The newer version of the Cobra driver range is the Cobra DS Adapt 2025 range of drivers. These supersede the DarkSpeed driver, but remember, DS does stand for DarkSpeed!
Overview of Cobra Darkspeed Drivers:
- Cobra is focusing on more distance with the Darkspeed drivers, a departure from its emphasis on forgiveness.
- There are three models in the lineup: Max (most forgiveness), X (middle of the road), and LS (low spin, fastest head shape).
- Bold blacked-out aesthetics with shiny Darkspeed branding.
- Each model is priced at around £429.
Model Differences:
- Max: Weight options for forgiveness and draw bias.
- X: Two weights for customisation, 12 G and 3 G, for spin settings.
- LS: Aerodynamic shape for faster club head speed, customizable weights for shot shaping.
Technology:
- All models feature the extra-large Powershell hot face for off-centre hits.
- AI Power Bridge enhances the driver’s ability to achieve maximum spring without exceeding the limit.
- LS model claims to have the most aerodynamic head shape for increased club head speed.
Performance and Initial Hits:
- Max: High forgiveness, draws, and high launch.
- X: Appealing head shape, good forgiveness, and firm performance.
- LS: Low spin, aerodynamic design, potential for increased club head speed.
Testing and Results:
- Rick tested all three models on a launch monitor and golf course.
- Max showed forgiveness with a tendency to draw.
- X performed well with adjustable weights.
- LS demonstrated potential for increased club head speed.
Conclusion:
- Positive impressions overall, with each model catering to different golfer preferences.
- LS stood out for potential increases in club head speed and straight shots.
- Rick recommends trying the models based on individual needs.
Here is Mark Crossfield’s Review
Let’s dive deeper into the three different models of Cobra Darkspeed drivers.
The Cobra DARKSPEED Driver X Version
This is a true masterpiece of precision and innovation. This driver embodies Cobra’s commitment to excellence, combining cutting-edge technologies, space-grade materials, and the expertise of aerospace engineers with Cobra’s club design team. The result is a driver that pushes the boundaries of speed and stability, making it the fastest and most stable driver ever produced by Cobra. The DARKSPEED X driver is designed to cater to a wide range of golfers, from professionals to amateurs, seeking maximum distance, higher launch, and enhanced stability.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Refined Aerodynamic Design: The DARKSPEED X features an enhanced aerodynamic shape to maximise speed. This design features a raised skirt, a streamlined face-to-topline radius, a higher crown peak, and a reduced clubface surface area, all of which work together to increase clubhead speed.
- Tour-Inspired Shaping: The clubhead boasts a more streamlined shape, promoting workability and control. Its smaller visual footprint at the address appeals to players who want precision and manoeuvrability.
- Larger PWRSHELL with A.I. Designed H.O.T. Face: A 10% larger PWRSHELL L-cup face generates greater distance, while the A.I. designed H.O.T. Face optimises speed and spin across the entire clubface.
- Lower and More Forward PWR-BRIDGE: The PWR-BRIDGE is strategically positioned lower and more forward, enhancing energy transfer and unleashing faster ball speeds.
- Blend of Forgiveness & Spin Control: Besides a back weight, the DARKSPEED X features a second forward weight for added spin tuning control.
- Adjustable Hosel: The driver’s adjustable hosel provides up to 3° of adjustability for both loft and lie, allowing golfers to fine-tune their ball flight.
Performance:
- Launch: Mid
- Spin: Low
- Shot Shape: Neutral
Specs:
- Full Adjustable Loft Options: 9° (RH only), 10.5°, 12° (RH only)
- Standard Grip: Lamkin Crossline 58R
- Standard Shaft: UST LIN-Q M40X Blue 60 (R/S) – Mid Launch, Low Spin
Cobra DARKSPEED Driver Max Version,
This masterpiece of precision and innovation embodies Cobra’s unwavering commitment to excellence. This driver utilizes cutting-edge technologies, space-grade materials, and the combined expertise of aerospace engineers and Cobra’s club design team.
The result is a driver representing Cobra’s fastest and most stable offering. The DARKSPEED MAX driver is designed for golfers seeking the ultimate fairway finder, delivering extreme forgiveness and accuracy, along with higher launch and straighter ball flights.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Refined Aerodynamic Design: The DARKSPEED MAX features an enhanced aerodynamic shape to maximise speed. This design features a raised skirt, a streamlined face-to-topline radius, a higher crown peak, and a reduced clubface surface area, all of which contribute to increased clubhead speed.
- Shaped for Speed and Forgiveness: The sleek clubhead shape strikes the perfect balance between forgiveness and speed, inspiring maximum confidence at address and delivering polished performance off the tee.
- Larger PWRSHELL with A.I. Designed H.O.T Face: The driver boasts a 10% larger PWRSHELL L-cup face, resulting in a more robust distance. The A.I.-designed H.O.T. Face optimises speed and spin efficiency across the entire clubface.
- Lower and More Forward PWR-BRIDGE: The suspended PWR-BRIDGE is strategically positioned lower and more forward, enabling faster ball speeds through improved energy transfer.
- Max Forgiveness & Draw-Biased Control: The DARKSPEED MAX features adjustable back and heel weight positions, allowing golfers to fine-tune draw bias for maximum forgiveness and control.
- Adjustable Hosel: The driver’s adjustable hosel provides up to 3° of adjustability for loft and lie, empowering golfers to customise their golf ball flight.
Performance:
- Launch: High
- Spin: Mid
- Shot Shape: Neutral-to-Draw Bias
Specs:
- Full Adjustable Loft Options: 10.5°, 12° (RH only)
- Standard Grip: Lamkin Crossline 58R
- Standard Shaft: UST LIN-Q M40X Red 50 (A/R/S) – Mid-High Launch, Mid Spin
Cobra DARKSPEED Driver LS Version
This driver leverages cutting-edge technologies, space-grade materials, and the collective expertise of aerospace engineers and Cobra’s club design team. The result is the fastest and most stable driver ever produced by Cobra. The Cobra DARKSPEED driver LS is tailored for golfers with faster swing speeds, offering a low launch and low spin head design for maximum distance and workability.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Refined Aerodynamic Design: The DARKSPEED LS features an enhanced aerodynamic shape to maximise speed. This design features a raised skirt, a streamlined face-to-topline radius, a higher crown peak, and a reduced clubface surface area, all of which contribute to increased clubhead speed.
- Tour-Inspired Shaping: The driver’s streamlined clubhead shape encourages workability and control. Its smaller visual footprint at the address inspires confidence and provides exceptional control.
- Larger PWRSHELL with A.I. Designed H.O.T Face: The driver boasts a 10% larger PWRSHELL L-cup face, delivering robust distance. An A.I.-designed H.O.T. Face ensures efficient speed and spins across the entire clubface.
- Lower and More Forward PWR-BRIDGE: The suspended PWR-BRIDGE is strategically positioned lower and more forward, enabling faster ball speeds through improved energy transfer.
- Max Workability With Added Forgiveness: The DARKSPEED LS driver features adjustable heel and toe weights, complemented by a third back weight. This setup allows for additional adjustment to optimize spin and forgiveness. The hosel sleeve provides up to 3° of adjustability to loft and lie.
Performance:
- Launch: Low
- Spin: Low
- Shot Shape: Neutral-to-Fade Bias
Specs:
- Full Adjustable Loft Options: 9°, 10.5°
- Standard Grip: Lamkin Crossline 58R
- Standard Shaft: UST LIN-Q M40X White 60 (S/X) – Low-Mid Launch and Spin
Here’s a summary of the key differences between the three Cobra DARKSPEED drivers:
- Cobra DARKSPEED X Golf Driver:
- Performance: Launch – Mid, Spin – Low, Shot Shape – Neutral
- Loft Options: 9° (RH only), 10.5°, 12° (RH only)
- Shaft: UST LIN-Q M40X Blue 60 (R/S) – Mid Launch, Low Spin
- Cobra DARKSPEED MAX Golf Driver:
- Performance: Launch – High, Spin – Mid, Shot Shape – Neutral-to-Draw Bias
- Loft Options: 10.5°, 12° (RH only)
- Shaft: UST LIN-Q M40X Red 50 (A/R/S) – Mid-High Launch, Mid Spin
- Cobra DARKSPEED LS Golf Driver:
- Performance: Launch – Low, Spin – Low, Shot Shape – Neutral-to-Fade Bias
- Loft Options: 9°, 10.5°
- Shaft: UST LIN-Q M40X White 60 (S/X) – Low-Mid Launch, Low Spin
All three drivers share the following features:
- Refined Aerodynamic Design for increased clubhead speed.
- Larger PWRSHELL with A.I. Designed H.O.T Face for robust distance.
- Lower and More Forward PWR-BRIDGE for faster ball speeds.
- Adjustable hosel for loft and lie adjustments (up to 3°).
These drivers cater to different player preferences and swing characteristics, allowing golfers to choose the one that best suits their game. Whether you’re looking for higher launch and added stability (DARKSPEED X), extreme forgiveness and accuracy (DARKSPEED MAX), or maximum distance with workability (DARKSPEED LS), Cobra has a driver to match your needs.
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.