Callaway Epic Max Driver: A great all-rounder, if you can afford it
The Callaway Epic Max driver offers strong distance and spin rate, but most impressive of all is the level of forgiveness.
Callaway's 2021 Epic line of driver models each feature a brand new speed frame which, according to the brand, has helped create its fastest driver ever. The Callaway Epic Max driver, along with the Epic Max LS and Epic Speed, all bring something unique to the table, but which one suits your game?
GolfMagic's equipment guru Alex Lodge put all three to the test to find out.
All you need to know: Best Golf Drivers
WATCH OUR CALLAWAY EPIC MAX DRIVER REVIEW:
Callaway Epic Max driver - Key Features
- Jailbreak A.I. Speed Frame + A.I. Designed Flash Face SS21
- Fast Epic driver head from a Cyclone Aero Shape
All of the above, plus:
- Lighter, stronger Triaxial Carbon material
- More control from Adjustable Perimeter Weighting
Callaway Epic Max LS
All of the above, plus:
- Adjustable Perimeter Weighting for shot shaping and control
Callaway Epic Max driver - Looks and Feel
The Callaway Mavrik driver came out last year, and with the brand going back to the Epic line, we have seen a completely new look for Callaway in 2021.
It's certainly not as loud as previous models in terms of design and Callaway have toned it down a little and gone for something that looks sleek, modern and a slightly more simplistic than the old Epic model.
The new colourway is also a huge improvement. Callaway tend to use bright colours with a hint of black, whereas this year it's almost been reversed to make black the main colour throughout the club head, which we really love.
There are some huge design differences compared to the Mavrik driver, but looking back at the previous Epic line, this is more of a rejig.
Callaway Epic Max driver - Performance and Forgiveness
Epic Max LS: The Epic Max LS is designed for mid-to-low handicap golfers seeking low spin. Alex was averaging a spin rate of 2070rpm which is extremely pleasing to see and if you're someone who wants a forgiving driver but seriously low spin, this will be the option for you.
Epic Speed: According to Callaway the Epic Speed is the brand's fastest driver to date. A seriously bold statement. Now although this driver did produce some impressive speeds, the difference in spin rate compared to the Max LS during the test was staggering. With an average of just over 2900rpm, it's still a spin rate that many golfers will be happy with, but in our personal opinion (and remember your results will be different to Alex's) we preferred the Max LS due to the combination of forgiveness and low spin.
Epic Max: In terms of spin, the Epic Max sat nicely in between the Max LS and the Speed, with an average of just over 2600rpm. What we can say about the Max is that it was definitely the most forgiving of the three, offering fantastic distances and dispersion from pretty much anywhere on the club face.
Should you buy the Callaway Epic Max driver?
In GolfMagic's opinion, the Callaway Epic Max is the best out of all three drivers. It offers distance, a workable spin rate, but the forgiveness element is what really won us over.
As we always mention, it's crucial to get custom fitted if you're looking for a new driver and make sure you try all three models so you know which feels right for you.
