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Titleist has introduced their all-new GT280 mini driver, the latest addition to the brand’s GT metalwood family.
This mini driver is designed for distance and control off the tee as well as playability from the turf. It leverages generational technology from both Titleist’s GT driver and fairway line-ups to give golfers versatile performance at the top end of their bags.
The model is named for its280cc head volume, which sits between the head volumes of GT drivers and GT fairway metals. GT280 has 13 degrees of loft, and its stock shaft length – 43.5 inches – is two inches shorter than the stock GT driver shaft length.
Titleist GT280 mini driver next the a 460cc GT driver (Credit: Titleist)
The Tech
Here’s the key technology points from the new addition to the Titleist range.
The Titleist GT280’s clubhead has a titanium body, but it features a Seamless Thermoform Crown made from Titleist’s Proprietary Matrix Polymer (PMP). This unique composite helps Titleist engineers achieve critical weight savings, allowing them to strategically position GT280’s centre of gravity to promote ultra-fast ball speeds, high stability and optimal launch conditions. Due to its tuneable acoustic properties, the PMP also works to preserve Titleist’s signature sound and feel.
Forward/Aft CG Adjustability
Like the GT4 driver, GT280 has forward/aft CG adjustability, giving fitters and golfers the ability to fine-tune launch conditions and swing weight. A heavier, 11-gram flat weight comes stock in the aft position, with a lighter, 3-gram flat weight positioned forward. Flipping the weighting setup will lower launch and spin for players seeking a more penetrating flight.
Sole view of the the new Titleist GT280 mini driver (Credit: Titleist)
Forged L-Cup Face
GT280 features a forged L-Cup face, which is comprised of a new insert that wraps around the bottom of the clubface. Because GT280’s face is deeper than that of a fairway wood, Titleist engineers put particular emphasis on improving performance on strikes low on the face. The L-Cup design helps retain ball speed, eliminate excessive spin and enhance sound and feel for such impacts, be them from the tee or the turf.
Lower Leading Edge
In addition to GT280’s L-Cup design, the club’s profile and shaping is also engineered to improve performance from the turf. GT280’s leading edge sits low to the ground, and Titleist engineers softened the sole curvature from heel to toe, creating a confidence-inspiring look at address and helping to raise strike location on the face. The profile changes also add forgiveness on off-centre or low strikes.
Mini drivers are becoming increasingly popular and it’s no surprise that brands like Titleist are coming out with their own. The Titleist GT280 Mini Driver fits perfectly between the GT fairway and GT driver, offering a great secondary option off the tee for golfers who want more control but still get the distance they need.
They do offer versatility off the fairway but it’s versatile in the sense that any golfer can use it as well. If you’re a golfer that doesn’t like the big heads of the modern driver it is a great option as it will pack a punch and have the forgiveness across the face. If you’re just looking for a fairway finder when the driver is misbehaving this is also a great club to have in the bag.
James Tait is bunkered’s Gear Editor. Want to know how the latest Callaway driver, Vokey wedge or Scotty Cameron putter performs? He’s the guy to ask. Better yet, just watch his videos on the bunkered YouTube channel. One of the biggest hitters in the UK, James also competes on the World Long Drive circuit and is a descendent of former Amateur champion Freddie Tait.
