How to Choose the Right Driver for Your Swing

Choosing a driver can feel overwhelming — especially when you're shopping second-hand and don't have a sales assistant talking you through it. Here's what actually matters.

Loft Most amateur golfers benefit from more loft, not less. If your swing speed is moderate, a 10.5° or even 12° driver will launch the ball higher and carry further than a low-lofted tour club. Leave the 8.5° drivers to the pros.

Shaft Flex This is the most misunderstood spec in golf. Shaft flex should match your swing speed:

• Ladies / Senior — swing speed under 75mph
• Regular — swing speed 75–90mph
• Stiff — swing speed 90–105mph
• X-Stiff — swing speed over 105mph

Most club golfers play a shaft that's too stiff, which costs them distance and accuracy. When in doubt, go Regular.

Head Size 460cc is the maximum and is the most forgiving. Smaller heads offer more workability but punish off-centre hits. For second-hand shoppers, stick to 460cc unless you're a single-digit handicap.

Condition to Look For At Replay Golf every driver is graded /10. An 8/10 driver has light cosmetic wear but performs like new. A 6/10 may have visible marks but the face and shaft are sound. We always describe exactly what you're getting.

Our tip: A TaylorMade, Callaway or Ping driver from 3–5 years ago at 8/10 condition will outperform a budget new driver every time — and cost you a fraction of the price.