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It used to be the case that hybrids carried a stigma in golf bag's, but now, they are commonplace as replacements for longer irons. We put two of the best offerings, one from Callaway and one from TaylorMade up against each other to see which one comes out on top.
Forgiveness has been the focus point of most brands this year, which can make it difficult to choose which one you should opt for. There are always a number of different models and shapes to sift through and Callaway and TaylorMade are both popular choice for many golfers. And for good reason!
We put the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke and TaylorMade Qi10 Max hybrids head to show you how the compare....
PROS
- Easy to get in the air
- Ai Smart Face is forgiving across the face on mishits
- Fast ball speeds and longer carry
CONS
- Shape may not appeal to everyone
First up we have the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke hybrid. This is a brand new shape that is larger and less intimidating at address than any long iron. It has a great look and finish to the crown with a matte finish which looks brilliant, with the chevron marking the centre for alignment.
The continuation of the new Ai Smart Face, which also features in the driver, fairway and irons, makes this hybrid very forgiving. Not only can you expect higher launch, longer carry and faster speeds, you will get more forgiveness across the whole face with the new artificial intelligence design. On those off-centre hits you’ll hit straighter and longer shots with the high MOI design delivering stability. The tungsten weighting on the sole helps deliver high launch and the spin control you need so you have the stopping power on those long shots in to the green. On the sole you also have a more pronounced camber that offers enhanced turf interaction, ensuring precise, clean contact for better consistency. To fine tune things even more, you have the adjustable hosel for desired ball flight.
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke hybrid is a great option if you want more speed, distance and forgiveness. And we all want that!
PROS
- Oversized profile for confidence at address
- Twist Face tech for straighter and longer shots
- Shallow face allows for higher MOI
CONS
- Shape may be too big for some golfers
Next, we have the TaylorMade Qi10 Max hybrid. Just like the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke, it comes in an oversized head shape but is slightly bigger in comparison. The Qi10 Max has a shallow face for maximum forgiveness and is the largest and most forgiving option.
What we do see in this hybrid is familiar tech from TaylorMade that also features in their drivers and fairway woods. The hybrids feature TaylorMade's Twist Face technology and Thru Slot Speed Pocket design delivers forgiveness across the whole face helping you get the most out of your mishits. With a shallow face and long shape, it's easy to launch, delivering better carry distance and better dispersion off the fairway. The Qi10 Max hybrid has a a sleek gloss carbon crown finish just like the metal woods, which frees up mass for optimal weight distribution and forgiveness throughout the club. It also has the V Steel sole which gives you better turf interaction and better versatility. The Qi10 Max also has rear-leaning perimeter weighting and ultra-low CG for higher launch and max forgiveness. The face height allows golfers to hit it high from anywhere, making it super easy to use.
Just like the Callaway option, the Qi10 Max from TaylorMade is ideal for golfers who want to bridge the gap between their irons and fairway woods, with something easy to hit.
Conclusion
Both of these hybrids are great if you are looking for more forgiveness and easier to launch options. The TaylorMade Qi10 Max is larger in shape, which will appeal to a lot of golfers as it’s almost the same size of a smaller wood. The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke is smaller in shape, but is still larger than other options from other brands.
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke will suit the eye of someone who wants a more speed and distance focused hybrid in comparison to the large oversized head of the Qi10 Max, which is higher launching offering more forgiveness.
The Qi10 comes with the shallower face make it easy to get in the air and, with the Twist Face tech, you’ll hit the ball straighter on those mishits. The Paradym Ai Smoke is fast and long and with the Ai Smart Face, is very impressive delivering great distance and dispersion.
It really does come to personal preference, but I really like the matte finish on Callaway's Paradym Ai Smoke, though others may prefer the gloss finish on TaylorMade Qi10 Max. Feel and acoustics will also play a big factor as the Callaway feels crisp and solid, with a higher pitch in comparison to the TaylorMade, which has a solid thud and duller sound. Each range has three options for golfers of all levels, offering two brilliant options to choose from if you're looking for a forgiveness in a hybrid.
While you’re here, you should really subscribe to the bunkered YouTube channel. We release a video every Friday, where you’ll see the latest gear in action, as well as some other fun stuff, too.
• How often should you change your golf balls?
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How we picked
Performance Consistency
We meticulously evaluated each piece of equipment's performance across a number of variables.
Forgiveness and Playability
With golf clubs, our assessment always considered the versatility and forgiveness levels, especially on off-centre strikes.
Innovative Technology
We scrutinise the incorporation of innovative technology in each piece of equipment we review.
Customisation
We consider factors like adjustable features and customisation options available to the buyer.
ALL ABOUT THE OPEN
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