RoboTest: Are you better off playing a 9- or 10.5-degree driver? We found out
We put this driver loft theory to the test with out ClubTest robot.
Jonathan Wall/GOLF
Some players hit up on the ball with driver, otherwise known as a positive angle of attack (AoA). Some hit down on the ball, and some come in neutral.
You? Better find out quick, because knowing how you deliver the club at impact is critical to optimizing driver loft. Simply selecting a driver because you think more or less loft is going to generate added distance simply won’t do the trick. In fact, it could rob you of yards off the tee.
RoboTest: This is the best spot to miss on the driver face for minimal distance loss
To know for sure, we programmed the Golf Labs robot for all three types of AoAs and had it produce each with both a 9- and 10.5-degree driver.
With a neutral AoA, the 9-degree head carried the ball 7 yards longer than the 10.5. The negative AoA swings benefited from more loft, but the positive attack swings flew much farther with less loft — to the tune of 14 yards!
Bottom line: Get with a fitter to establish your AoA baseline. If your loft and AoA don’t match up, it’s time to consider other options.
Want to overhaul your bag for 2023? Find a fitting location near you at GOLF’s affiliate company True Spec Golf.
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