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Mini Drivers are becoming increasingly popular and now Titleist have got in on the act. Jack Backhouse took the Titleist GT280 Mini Driver out on the golf course to see how it stacks up.
This really may be the era of the Mini Driver’s, and Titleist’s are the latest big golf club manufacturer to get involved with the GT280 Mini Driver. We have seen the success of TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini Driver and BRNR Mini Driver, now it is Titleist’s turn to step up with a powerful yet versatile option. Here’s how it performed when we took it out on the golf course and if its the right club for you…
The Titleist GT280 Mini Driver is a versatile and powerful option for golfers looking to bridge the gap between their three-wood and driver. Its thermoform crown, adjustable weight ports, and optimised sole design make it easy to launch from both the tee and the fairway, providing consistent ball speeds and impressive carry. Although it might lack a tad of ball speed in comparison to other options, its versatility and ease of use are undeniable.
PROS
CONS
Titleist has always been synonymous with premium craftsmanship, and the GT280 Mini Driver is no exception. The first thing that stands out is the Thermoform Crown, crafted from Titleist’s proprietary PMP material. This lightweight design allows for more optimal weight redistribution, which allows for increased stability and ball speed.
The unique build of the thermoform crown also works to maximise forgiveness, without sacrificing distance, as a result of its reduced weight from a standard driver. Additionally, the clubhead also features two adjustable weight ports, positioned strategically to influence launch dynamics.
Another standout feature is the adjustable hosel, which lets you tweak the loft and lie independently. This flexibility provides more control over ball flight, enabling you to shape your shots more effectively, whether you’re hitting from the tee or off the deck. The GT280’s adjustability mirrors that of Titleist’s drivers, giving it a significant edge in terms of versatility.
Off the tee, I found the GT280 to be somewhat of a revelation. At address the club provides a confidence-inspiring without being overly bulky. When teed lower, I was able to hit shots remarkably like a three-wood. I was able to consistently hit a controlled, penetrating ball flight with enough spin to maintain stability.
On the flip side when teed higher, it acts more like a driver. My ball flight was then launching with impressive carry and low spin for optimal roll-out. So, from the tee box the club was able to hit whatever shot I required.
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Elsewhere during testing, my ball speeds averaged 155 mph, with a carry distance around 250 yards and spin rates hovering between 3200-3500 RPM. Again, it comes down to how the GT280 reaches these numbers consistency. Even on slight mis-hits, it maintains ball speed and stays on line far better than many other Mini Drivers tested recently.
The flat sole design is another masterstroke by Titleist. Unlike other Mini Drivers that can feel clunky when played off the fairway, the GT280’s sole design allows it to sit comfortably behind the ball. This makes it far easier to launch from tight lies, where other Mini Drivers might struggle. I believe it’s genuinely one of the few Mini Drivers that comfortably bridges the gap between driver and three-wood.
I recently tested TaylorMade’s mini driver offering, the R7 Quad. Although both options are premium quality golf clubs there were a few differences between the two. The R7 had the edge when it came to raw ball speed, but I found the GT280 to be more versatile and easier to use off the ground.
In comparison, I felt the GT280 is a more balanced option. For those who find themselves in fairway bunkers or battling tight landing zones, the GT280 is far more forgiving.
Overall, I have nothing but good things to say about the Titleist GT280 Mini Driver. Its thoughtful design, combined with incredible versatility, makes it a strong contender for golfers looking to replace their three-wood or even their driver. For those who frequently find themselves in that 230-260 yard range off the tee or who battle hard fairways and bunkers, the GT280 is an absolute game-changer.
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While it may not be for everyone, those who struggle with fairway woods might find it a challenge, it is undoubtedly a must-try for any golfer seeking a reliable, long-distance option with unmatched control. I have always looked Titleist clubs and this certainly joins that list.
Available: Now
RRP: £459.00 / $499.99
More information: Titleist UK / Titleist US
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