Why Justin Rose was using this bizarre driver setup

I’d like to say I’m someone who has seen a lot — especially as it relates to equipment. But sometimes I’ll take a picture of a player’s bag and still think to myself, What in the hell is going on here?

Today’s subject: Mr. Justin Rose, who is low-key one of the most prolific gear testers out there. For context, it’s historically a crapshoot on any given week what Rosey will show up with.

But I think what he does is actually healthy for two reasons: he knows his game and what he needs at a masterclass level. First, very few players understand the combination of club-to-data-to-ball in the air better than he does. And second, he’s an old-school feel player. That’s right — he’s tech heavy and a total feel player. Two things can be true at the same time. He’s someone who shows up with 20 clubs in the bag and won’t even get a double-take from the Tour’s gearheads.

However, as I was trolling his bag this week I noticed a back-up driver that had a gaggle of lead tape just above the grip. I’ve seen that before with Sergio and Vijay, but not to this level. Rose had four-times as much lead above the grip than I’ve ever seen. I’d guess at least 8-10 grams.

So, why was he doing this? It could be two things:

1. Counter balance: It’s not uncommon for players to counter balance — pulling the balance point to the butt-end of the grip — for a feel or for players that tend to pull on the handle harder than most (like Sergio).

2. Swing weight: Depending on the build of the club and the amount of internal and external weighting needed for launch/spin, etc., more weight was needed to get to Rose’s preferred swing weight.

Another option (the gear dork idea):

Shaft weight: Rose, who typically leans toward a 70-gram shaft, may have had a bad miss or an issue at 70 grams with that head and shaft combo. Putting the 60-gram shaft may afford him a more quality outcome and the extra weight above the grip gives him a heavy “feel” without having to up to the 70-gram shaft.

Regardless, this is the kind of stuff that keeps me up at night and I think it’s fascinating. This particular setup is not in play but it’s on the travel squad, so if anything changes, we’ll let you know.

To dial in the perfect driver for your game, consult a fitter at your local True Spec Golf.