For ClubTest 2020, we tested and reviewed 28 new drivers to help you find the right one for your game. Below are the results for the TaylorMade SIM driver. You can find the full list of drivers and test results here.
Price: $549
Lofts: 8˚, 9˚, 10.5˚
Our take: Squeezing every last ounce of speed and forgiveness out of a driver head takes creativity—and some ridiculously smart engineers. Looking at TaylorMade’s shiny SIM (Speed in Motion), it’s clear that the company’s braintrust has been busy finding new ways to capture more speed while doing so in a way that appeals to golfers who crave adjustability and control. A speed-inducing Inertia Generator (located in the sole) is paired with a new aerodynamic profile to improve clubhead speed. What separates SIM from the other two models in the line is a 10-gram sliding weight that creates 20 yards of draw-fade bias to optimize ballflight. The driver has a slightly smaller face than the Max and Max D, but thanks to a fifth-generation carbon composite crown and groundbreaking Twist Face technology, it’s difficult to tell much of a difference when it comes to speed.
A combo of low spin and impressive carry numbers gives SIM some first-rate launch characteristics. Even with a smaller face profile, the driver still ranked near the top in overall (high speed) and high toe (both speeds) forgiveness. And if your go-to shot happens to be a fade? Even better.
ClubTester’s take (+1-hdcp): “This club is a 787. It’s big, bold, looks good and flat-out goes.”
Robot’s take: Carry and forgiveness numbers rate near the top for high swing speed players. Impressive forgiveness for the mid-speed set, too.