NCG 2014 Driver Test – The Results
Others love Christmas Day but for us, our annual driver test is the highlight of the year. This time, we called in what we believe to be the 21 best models on the market. And then we hit them until our backs ached and hands bled!
The Methodology
We conducted the test at Moor Allerton GC in Leeds, where we used their state-of-the-art fitting studio complete with Trackman launch monitor. All the brands were invited to send in their latest drivers with the option to provide custom-fitted samples if they preferred to do so.
Key factors
-Looks
-Sound and feel
-Distance Forgiveness
-Quality of components
-Value for money
-Playability
The Testers
Dan Murphy (DM)
Handicap: 3
“A new driver is all about custom fitting – I like a fast feel off the face and I need to be confident the shaft is keeping my spin rates down without costing me any swing speed.”
James Whitaker (JW)
Handicap: Pro
“There’s so much choice these days and with the adjustability at our disposal we really can dial in the performance. That said, I still like to see a classic head shape at address.”
Pete Chippindale (PC)
Handicap: 12
“I really like a driver that feels light as it makes me feel that I can finish my swing and get maximum clubhead speed. I’ve used white-headed clubs before now.”
THE RESULTS – CLICK THE LINKS TO FIND OUT MORE
GOLD AWARD WINNERS
TaylorMade SLDR/SLDR TP – VIDEO
Nike covert 2.0 Performance/Tour – VIDEO
SILVER AWARD WINNERS
BRONZE AWARD WINNER
Callaway Big Bertha Alpha – VIDEO
FACT: THERE WAS NOT A POOR DRIVER IN THIS TEST. WE HAVE OUR FAVOURITES BUT DON’T THINK ANY OF THESE COMPANIES MAKE POOR DRIVERS. THEY DON’T.
PING i25 – VIDEO
TaylorMade JetSpeed/JetSpeed TP – VIDEO
James Savage
Former equipment editor of NCG. Inconsistent ball-striker and tea-maker.
