XXIO X Driver
Admittedly the XXIO X driver is a lot of money, but it’s worth a try if you lack distance, want a higher ball flight and to sample something a bit different in 2018.
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Very forgiving on off-centre hits and has no problem getting the ball up in the air. For many the lightweight feel will increase clubhead speed.
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The super-premium price tag will be a stumbling block for many, the light feel may also reduce control.
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XXIO X Driver Review - GM Editor Mike Harris gives his verdict on the new lightweight XXIO X driver having tested it thoroughly on the golf course
XXIO X Driver Review
Aimed at This driver is aimed at moderate-swing-speed golfers seeking distance and control.
Key technology With lighter components and a higher balance point, XXIO X’s Low Swing MOI helps increase clubhead and ball speed without any swing changes. The Smart Impact Shaft has a unique flex profile that works to reduce the forces that pull golfers off balance, resulting in more consistency. A High Energy Impact head provides increased ball speeds on shots struck in the low heel and toe, where most players tend to make contact.
How we tested We put a 9° stiff-shafted model in play for 18 holes at West Hill GC as well as testing it out on the Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor.
GM Review
Looks The dark, two-tone blue crown will please the eye of the majority. The fact it doesn’t extend right up to the face makes it look more lofted. It sits a touch closed, but has an oversized profile that boosts confidence.
Performance Slow- and medium-swing- speed players should experience an increase in club speed from the lightweight feel, assisted by the forgiving clubhead. This boosts distance and helps with dispersion. Tee shots were generally high and straight with the XXIO X driver.
In the right hands, this driver can certainly deliver performance comparable with most other offerings on the market. Our average-swing-speed tester was impressed with the forgiveness levels of the clubhead, as well as how the lightweight feel (the shaft is a mere 40g) translated into extra clubhead speed to maximise carry distance.
This won’t be the case for everyone – in fact, some might find the lightweight, 45.75in shaft difficult to control. But for slower swingers who need help getting the ball in the air, the make-up of this driver is ideal. It feels well balanced and incredibly solid from the sweetspot, and it seems to have a tendency to reduce a slice.
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Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.
One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.
Joel's current What's In The Bag?
Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°
Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°
Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°
Irons: Ping i230 4-UW
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind
Putter: Evnroll ER2V
Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x
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