Callaway have released an adjustable driver that aims to achieve maximum distance through an aerodynamically-engineered head and lightweight components.
The FT Optiforce was borne from an early Callaway design called the Falcon, which was created with the best aerodynamics of any driver head they have made above 400cc.
“We realised we could produce a traditional head shape, that doesn’t have any unusual visual features to it, but had a definite advantage in adding head speed at the point of impact, based on the same effort applied by a golfer,” said Dr Alan Hocknell, the England-born head of Callaway’s R&D department.
As standard, it features a 43-gramme shaft that means the overall club weight is less than a can of fizzy pop, as well as a unique club face that features both Variable Face Technology and Hyberbolic Face Technology.
We realised we could produce a traditional head shape, that doesn’t have any unusual visual features to it, but had a definite advantage in adding head speed at impact. The result, on paper at least, should be more ball speed that comes from having the ability to swing the club faster, and more pop from the trampoline-like face.
Add into the equation a new OptiFit hosel, which allows you to independently adjust both loft and face angle, and you have a great all-rounder.
The only concern is that it doesn’t really replace anything and Callaway’s range is already quite crowded.
Dr Hocknell explained why they chose to bring in the Optiforce.
“Basically, FT Optiforce was just too good a project not to turn into a product. Of course, we have other mainline Driver products doing their thing in the market at the moment, but because of the range of benefits FT Optiforce can give to a wide spectrum of golfers is so compelling, we could not leave it behind on the shelf, so to speak.”
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Features in a nutshell
- Aerodynamic and light – standard shaft just 43g (overall 296g)
- Adjustable using OptiFit hosel – can change loft and face angle
- Variable Face Technology and Hyperbolic Face for fast ball speeds
Details
Full name: Callaway FT Optiforce driver
In shops: Friday 12th July, 2013
SRP: £329
Lofts: 9.5 & 10.5˚
LH Option? Yes
Length: 46″
Head size: 440cc (9.5˚), 460cc (10.5˚)
Weight: 296-305g depending on shaft and flex
Swing weight: D0-D3
Standard shafts: Project X Velocity 43; Diamana S+
