Cobra DS-Adapt X Driver Review

Cobra DS-Adapt X Driver Key Features

• FutureFit33 Adjustable hosel system
• Smartpad Technology
• Progressive Aero shaping
• Adaptive Weighting

Cobra's new DS-Adapt line of drivers features four models: the X, LS, Max-K and Max-D, in this review, we are going to focus on the X, which is the core model from the line, designed to be an ideal balance of speed, spin and forgiveness. 

The DS-Adapt X features a bevy of technical features, but the main two that are new for 2025 are the new adjustable hosel and the Smartpad. The two actually work in tandem, with the hosel allowing golfers to adjust their driver with 33 different loft and lie settings.

The Smartpad is an innovative sole geometry design, which then ensures the clubface remains square at address regardless of the loft or lie setting. 

To find out how the DS-Adapt would perform, myself and GolfMagic's Equipment Editor Alex Lodge took it out on the course before digging deep into the. umber at Foresight HQ with a GC Quad launch monitor. 

Let's get into it.

Player Level

The core model is designed to be the perfect middle ground between the speed of the LS and the forgiveness of the Max-K which means it's a versatile weapon that could be used by a wide variety of golfers. Having said that, I would still try and push most amateurs towards the Max-K due to it's incredibly generous level of forgiveness and playability.

Cobra DS-Adapt X Driver Looks and Feel

Cobra has done a fantastic job of sticking with what worked with Darkspeed in terms of aesthetics, and built upon it instead of trying to reinvent the wheel. 

The Adapt X has a dynamic sole design that is consistent with the rest of the range, utilising a mixture of panels to create a chevron effect behind the face of the club. 

A panel of carbon is positioned near the rear of the head, which contrasts beautifully with the solid metallic panels near the face. 

Discreet branding really elevates the whole design, and a single weight towards the rear rounds it out. 

Cobra has opted for different coloured accents for each model and the X features a metallic blue which looks absolutely superb. 

Flip the club over and the crown is completely black with a mixed material design which again looks top notch. Much like the original Darkspeed the DS-Adapt has quite an angular profile, which looks more aerodynamic than forgiving. 

In terms of feel the DS-Adapt X produces a punchy sensation at impact which is reflected in the speed it's able to produce. The quality of strike is definitely reflected in the feedback felt across the face, while the sound is a satisfying crack that will undoubtedly appeal to plenty of golfers. 

Cobra DS-Adapt X Driver Performance and Forgiveness

As you can see form the graph above the DS-Adapt X is capable of generating a good level of speed, with optimal spin rates. 

Compared to other drivers on the market like the Titleist GT2 there is a slight drop off in speed, and unfortunately we haven't seen the trade off coming in way of forgiveness. 

I must admit I did struggle to get on with the DS-Adapt X, I did a fair amount of tinkering with the hosel in order to find my optimal setup bet even then, finding the centre of the face did prove tricky. 

While there is undoubtedly some human error to throw into the mix here, I tested this driver at the same time as the DS-Adapt Max-K and had no such issues with that model in hand.

I was able to walk away with some good performance data, but it must be said that in terms of pure playability I think the Max-K certainly has the X pipped.  

The X delivers greater ball speed, which can't be contested, but when it came down to forgiveness, consistency of strike and offline dispersion the Max-K came up trumps time and time again. 

It goes without saying that this is my own personal experience and it's likely thousands of golfers around the world will hit the X and absolutely love it, but I had to admit that I did not really get on with this driver. 

Should you buy a Cobra DS-Adapt X Driver?

The X is a good driver. The figures show that quite clearly. Personally It's not my favourite from the DS-Adapt family but that doesn't mean it can't be yours. 

If forgiveness is what you are looking for definitely go for the Max-K, but as always we would highly recommend getting fit for any driver you buy. 

In terms of looks and feel this driver is a home run, and when it comes to price, Cobra is once again offering excellent value with the full line of drivers coming in at a much lower prince point than brands like Titleist, PING, TaylorMade or Callaway.