TaylorMade has been a front runner when it comes to product development and trying something new, and their latest Qi35 driver couldn’t illustrate this better.
The space age looking Qi35 has got everyone’s attention and regardless of the initial mixed reviews you can’t argue with the level of tech it is packing:
CG Projection: The balance point of the driver’s head projected onto the clubface. Strikes above this point launch higher with less spin, while lower strikes launch lower with more spin and reduced distance. TaylorMade lowered the balance point of the Qi35 driver to enhance performance compared to previous models.
TAS Weights: TaylorMade’s Trajectory Adjustment System (TAS) weights allow customizable center of gravity adjustments for fine-tuning performance.
Chromium Carbon Fiber: Integrated with a fourth-gen Carbon Twist Face and Infinity Carbon Crown, this material creates a lighter head with optimized weight distribution, increasing forgiveness and stability.
Multi-Material Construction: Chromium carbon fiber, steel, aluminum, tungsten, and titanium combine to enhance performance across all Qi35 driver models.
Qi35 SelectFit Heads: Built-in reflective fitting markers provide precise impact and face delivery data without stickers. Compatible with Foresight GCQuad and Quad Max monitors, as well as Trackman systems for accurate fitting and performance tracking.
Could the Qi35 Mirror The R7 Quad Success?
In some respects it reminds us of when their R7 Quad was launched. It was also packed with features never seen before and golfers went mad moving weights around in a vain attempt to control their ball flight. Though as history has proved. TaylorMade models have a tendency to fly off the shelves or gather dust.
TaylorMade Drivers That Made An Impact
Burner (1983): The Burner series is a cornerstone of TaylorMade’s history. The original Burner, with its revolutionary “metalwood” construction and unique sole design, set the stage for the brand’s dominance in driver technology. It combined power and forgiveness, appealing to golfers of all skill levels.
R7 Quad (2004): The R7 Quad introduced the groundbreaking Moveable Weight Technology (MWT), allowing players to adjust weight distribution for a customized ball flight. This innovation marked the beginning of modern adjustability in golf clubs, changing how players approach their game.
R11 (2011): The R11’s striking white crown and matte finish made it instantly recognizable. Beyond aesthetics, it featured Flight Control Technology (FCT), allowing golfers to adjust loft and face angles, and Moveable Weight Technology, ensuring precise tuning for optimal performance.
M1/M2 (2016): The M-series brought revolutionary multi-material construction, combining carbon composite crowns with titanium. The M1 focused on adjustability, while the M2 emphasized forgiveness and distance, catering to a wide range of players.
Stealth (2022): TaylorMade’s Stealth series introduced a Carbonwood face, departing from traditional titanium construction. This innovation increased ball speed and energy transfer, cementing TaylorMade’s reputation for pushing technological boundaries.
TaylorMade Drivers That Flopped
R1 (2013): Despite offering extensive adjustability, the R1 was criticized for its complexity, making it challenging for golfers to set up optimally. The 12-position loft sleeve and 7-position face angle adjustments required a steep learning curve, leading to frustration among users.
SLDR (2014): The SLDR aimed to deliver greater distance by promoting a higher launch with lower spin. However, many golfers found it less forgiving, especially those with higher handicaps, as it emphasized low loft and ball flight, which didn’t suit everyone.
M3 (2018): Introduced with “Twist Face” technology, the M3 driver was designed to correct off-center hits. However, many golfers found it less forgiving compared to previous models, leading to mixed reviews.
TaylorMade Qi35 Conclusion
The TaylorMade Qi35 might go two ways in the market. Follow the success story of the R7 Quad, or struggle like the R1 for having too many options and just too much of a tech story to sell. Sometimes the simplest stories have the most impact.
