TAYLORMADE’S 2017 CLUBS

Earlier this month in Florida I had the opportunity to try out TaylorMade’s latest metalwoods. The company had great success with its M1 and M2 club lines in 2016, and debuted new versions of both franchises for 2017. I really liked the all-new M1 adjustable driver that will sell for $500. It now includes a lower-density titanium alloy and an added carbon toe panel. The black-white crown is slightly altered but has a familiar look to it. It sounded and felt very solid. Once I found the proper settings combination, I consistently achieved straight shots with a welcome trajectory — especially nice considering the strong left-to-right wind gusts the entire testing time.

The M2, by contrast, also felt nice but I thought the impact sound was slightly more metallic than the M1’s thud — perhaps because of its new “Geocoustic” design. Many golfers associate that metallic sound with power. You can’t go wrong with either model. TaylorMade’s clubfitter told me lower handicaps generally prefer the M1. The matching fairway woods and Rescues for both lines were very consistent in performance and feel to their drivers. So if you opt for the driver, definitely consider the entire wood family for your bag. I have to say, I really like the looks of both models this year. They’re accented with a neon greenish yellow and have a powerful appearance at address.

Veteran golf writer Scott Kramer has covered the golf equipment market full-time since 1990. His career has spanned senior editor positions at both Golf Pro Magazine and GOLF Magazine. He now works on a freelance basis for many consumer and trade publications, including the SCGA’s FORE magazine.