5 TaylorMade SLDR driver Call me a traditionalist, but while I have learned to get used to white heads I must admit they have never quite suited my eye.
And if I am using a white-headed driver, I would certainly rather there was little else in the way of distraction on the crown.
So when my SLDR sample arrived I was delighted to see that not only is the head a dignified metallic grey, it is also pretty clean. I think it draws attention back to the fact that TaylorMade drivers have always made great-looking heads with everything in proportion.
For me personally it is this return to a classic look that is the stand-out feature of this driver but the main technological innovation comes in the form of a rail with a weight attached that you can slide from one end to the other that can promote a draw or a fade if needed.
I was delighted to see that not only is the head a dignified metallic grey, it is also pretty clean. It’s such a visible piece of technology, and so intuitive to look at, that I suspect many who have previously ignored adjustability through not understanding how it works will give the SLDR a try.
As for the performance and feel, my experience is that the flight is on the low side and certainly low-spinning, a great combination for some. These two things are related.
So my advice would be to err on the side of additional loft and then benefit from the directness of a flight that sends the ball towards the target extremely quickly and directly.
SRP: £349 (TP version with upgraded shaft £399)