The Taylormade SIM 2 Driver has been one of the most anticipated golf club releases of the year. With the success of its predecessor, the SIM Driver, golfers are eager to see how the SIM 2 performs on the course.
Taylormade has made some updates to the SIM 2 Driver, including a new Forged Ring Construction and a redesigned Inertia Generator. These changes are meant to improve the club’s forgiveness and distance.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Taylormade SIM 2 Driver and see if it lives up to the hype. We’ll examine its design, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right driver for your game.
- 1) Hands-On Test of the SIM 2 Driver
- 2) SIM 2 Driver Forgiveness
- 3) SIM 2 Driver Playability and Trajectory
- 4) Look, Sound and Feel
- 5) Technologies Behind the SIM Driver’s Performance
- 6) What are the reviews like?
- 7) SIM 2 Driver Available Models
- 8) Alternatives to the SIM Max 2 Driver
- 9) FAQs About the TaylorMade SIM 2 Driver
- 10) Conclusion
Hands-On Test of the SIM 2 Driver
As someone who has been playing golf for years, I can say that my experience with the Taylormade SIM2 driver was exceptional. The club packs a ton of features that make it stand out from other drivers in its range.
I can confidently say that it has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance, looks, sound & feel, forgiveness, playability/trajectory, and features.
Starting off with the basics, the SIM2 driver comes with a choice of lofts ranging from 8 to 12 degrees, and it features a standard Fujikura Ventus Blue shaft and a Golf Pride Z-Grip. The hosel allows for 2 degrees of adjustability in either direction for loft and lie.
The first thing that stood out to me about this driver was the 12% larger face it boasts over its predecessor, the SIM driver. This, combined with a 5% higher MOI, provides a larger sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball with maximum forgiveness even on off-center hits.
The use of a new Forged Milled aluminum blue back ring with a 16g Inertia Generator weight further enhances the driver’s MOI.
The SIM2 aerodynamics also contribute to enhancing the driver’s performance. The chalk white paint and satin carbon fiber crown and sole work together to reduce drag and increase clubhead speed, resulting in improved ball speed and distance.
Overall, the Taylormade SIM2 driver proved to be a versatile driver that can work well for golfers of all skill levels looking for enhanced forgiveness and additional clubhead speed. The combination of advanced features and improved aesthetics make this driver worth checking out.
SIM 2 Driver Forgiveness
The TaylorMade SIM 2 Max driver is a game improvement driver designed to offer maximum forgiveness. With its large 460cc head and generous sweet spot, mishits are less punishing, making it easier to get the ball up in the air and keep it in play.
Compared to its previous models, the SIM 2 Max driver has been improved to provide an even higher level of forgiveness. The driver now features a rear/bottom weight that helps redistribute the center of gravity, resulting in less dispersion on off-center hits. Additionally, the driver’s larger face and unique shaping allow for a more consistent trajectory, regardless of where contact is made on the clubface.
The SIM 2 Max also features adjustable loft options that allow you to fine-tune your launch and spin rates, ensuring optimal ball flight. This level of dispersion helps make the SIM 2 Max one of the most forgiving drivers on the market.
Several innovative technologies have been incorporated into the design of the driver that contribute to its forgiveness. The Inertia Generator, for example, increases the forgiveness of the driver while still maintaining fast ball speeds. The Speed Injected Twist Face is also designed to produce faster ball speeds, even on poor strikes.
SIM 2 Driver Playability and Trajectory
The driver produces a neutral ball flight and a mid trajectory when using the TENSEI stock shaft with a stiff flex. The height of the ball flight will vary depending on the player’s swing speed, but can be adjusted using the loft sleeve or by changing the shaft.
The neutral ball flight and mid trajectory make the SIM 2 a versatile option for a range of golfers and different course conditions. The ball flight is not overly high or low, which can be helpful when trying to navigate different wind conditions.
The loft sleeve allows you to adjust the loft of the club head and change the trajectory accordingly. This feature can help you optimize your launch for your particular swing.
The SIM 2 driver also offers workability and controllability. Players who prefer to hit the ball in various ways will appreciate the ability to hit shots with different flights and work the ball both ways off the tee. This is especially true when using a lower ball trajectory, allowing players to get maximum rollout on firmer fairways.
Look, Sound and Feel
When you first lay your eyes on the Taylormade SIM 2 driver, its sleek appearance will undoubtedly capture your attention. The driver comes with a unique and striking blue aluminum ring at the back, giving it a modern and fresh look.
If you’re a TaylorMade fan, you might recognize that the company has increased its focus on blue colors in its latest product releases. Also, the driver offers a customizable MySIM2 option, allowing you to choose your own color scheme to match your preferences.
However, the SIM 2 driver is not only about appearance; its feel is addictive to hit, making it stand out from other drivers on the market. The feedback through your hands is uncompromising and satisfying, which experienced golfers deeply appreciate.
When you make contact, you’ll admire the mid-pitch “crack” sound that immediately informs you of a successful hit. This sound also makes the TaylorMade SIM 2 the driver of choice for golfers looking for unique and distinct auditory feedback.
You’ll find that the entire range of TaylorMade SIM 2 drivers offers a consistent feel and sound across all models. Whether you prefer a driver that favors forgiveness or precision, you’ll still get the same satisfying feel and sound at impact.
Technologies Behind the SIM Driver’s Performance
What features and technologies make the TaylorMade SIM 2 driver so special? Let’s take a closer look.
Thru-Slot Speed Pocket
This unique design helps to maximize ball speeds on off-center hits while also increasing the overall level of forgiveness.
The Thru-Slot Speed Pocket is a long cutout located behind the clubface that helps to reduce the stress on the face, which maximizes ball speeds and produces more consistent distance, especially on low face strikes.
The design of the Thru-Slot Speed Pocket also makes it one of the most flexible Speed Pocket designs available on the market. This flexibility allows for a more forgiving response on off-center hits, which is especially helpful for golfers who struggle with consistency.
The Pocket also helps produce optimal launch conditions and increase inertia through impact, resulting in greater distance and accuracy with every shot.
Speed-Injected Twist Face
The TaylorMade SIM 2 driver features a Speed-Injected Twist Face. This innovative feature combines speed injection and corrective face curvature technologies to optimize each head to the legal speed limit and provide maximum energy transfer to the ball.
The technology utilizes a proprietary resin injection process that stiffens the face and calibrates each head to the precise legal speed limit. This creates the optimal conditions for maximum energy transfer to the ball, pushing ball speeds to higher levels.
Moreover, the corrective face curvature minimizes mishits and enhances consistency across the face. The technology provides heel and toe mis-hit protection, ensuring that even off-center hits can travel straighter and further off the tee.
Split Mass Weighting
The Split Mass Weighting feature distributes weight towards the heel and rear of the club head.
This design promotes enhanced forgiveness and spin properties while allowing for precise target swing weights during custom assembly. The SIM2 driver comes with a TPS weight on the sole and 16 grams of steel at the rear, further enhancing these features.
The Split Mass Weighting design can also benefit golfers struggling with slices. By providing the opportunity to straighten out your shot and gain distance, this design element can help you get closer to your target. The heel weighting can help square the face at impact, resulting in better accuracy and ball flight.
Stock Info
In terms of available lofts, the TaylorMade SIM 2 driver comes in 9, 10.5, and 12 degrees. This range should cover most players, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a specific loft.
The driver also comes with several stock shaft options, including the Fujikura Atmos Blue, the Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw Blue, and the Project X HZRDUS Smoke RDX. These are all high-quality shafts that should provide you with great performance.
The SIM 2 driver also comes with an adjustable hosel. This allows you to tweak the loft and lie angles of the driver to suit your swing.
The driver’s loft sleeve allows you to adjust the loft of the driver by up to 2 degrees in either direction. This gives you a total of 12 possible sleeve variations to choose from, so you can really dial in your launch angle.
Finally, the TaylorMade SIM 2 driver comes with a stock grip, but if you’re interested in custom shaft options, you can find more information on the official TaylorMade website.
What are the reviews like?
You’ve likely seen the Taylormade SIM 2 driver being promoted by some of the biggest names in golf, like Dustin Johnson and John Rahm. But what do actual reviewers and everyday golfers have to say about it? Let’s dive in and see what the overall consensus is.
What People Like About Taylormade Sim 2 Driver
Golfers have been raving about the Taylormade SIM 2 driver, and for good reason. It has quickly become a favorite due to its explosive distance, unmatched forgiveness, solid contact feel, workability, and optimal launch angle. Let’s take a closer look at each of these features.
- Explosive distance: The SIM 2 driver is designed to deliver incredible distance, even with off-center hits. This is thanks to the driver head’s inertia generator and the speed-injected twist face, which work together to maximize ball speed and reduce spin rate.
- Forgiveness: Mis-hits don’t have to spell disaster with the SIM 2 driver. The thru-slot speed pocket and rear weight combine to create a high level of forgiveness. Golfers appreciate that mis-hits stay in the fairway, saving them strokes.
- Solid Contact Feel: When striking the ball with the SIM 2 driver, golfers experience a satisfying solid contact feel. This comes from the driver’s carbon sole and steel weight, which work to dampen vibrations and enhance the feel.
- Workability: For golfers who need to work the ball right or left, the SIM 2 driver is a great option. Its draw-biased driver design accentuates a natural tendency for most golfers to have a slight fade bias. This feature helps golfers hit straighter, more accurate shots.
- Launch angle: The Taylormade SIM 2 driver delivers a higher launch angle than other models, making it easier to get the ball up in the air. Golfers appreciate how the club sets up square at address and the ability to achieve optimal launch for their swing speeds, making it easier to maximize distance.
What People Don’t Like
There are a few common complaints that people have. One of these is that the low spin and high launch may not be suitable for every golfer’s game. It’s important to note that this driver is designed to provide maximum distance, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize accuracy over distance.
Another potential issue is that not everyone may receive optimal performance without proper fitting. It’s essential to get a proper fitting to ensure that the driver’s optimal launch and spin are achieved.
Those who require more height on their tee shots should remember to adjust the loft up accordingly. Similarly, for those who require a more penetrating ball flight, adjusting the loft down will be necessary.
The impact of the selected shaft would also greatly affect the overall performance of the driver. Golfers must consider the shaft’s weight, flex, and kick point before making a final decision. The right shaft can contribute to additional clubhead speed and distance.
Despite these complaints, it’s essential to highlight that the SIM 2 driver has several features that enhance forgiveness. This makes it ideal for high-handicappers, seniors, and those looking for maximum forgiveness.
SIM 2 Driver Available Models
The SIM 2 is available in three different models, catering to the specific needs of golfers with different swing speeds and playstyles.
The standard SIM 2 model provides mid-to-low spin for high speeds and a smooth feel, while the SIM 2 Max gives you improved forgiveness and launch at more moderate swing speeds. The SIM 2 Max D has a draw bias to help correct rightward misses.
SIM 2 Driver
The SIM 2 Driver boasts several key features that set it apart from other models on the market. These include an Inertia Generator that improves forgiveness by shifting weight low and back in the head, a Speed Injection process that improves ball speed on mis-hits and the Speed Injected Twist Face and Thru-Slot Speed Pocket work together to promote faster ball speeds and reduce spin rates for longer, straighter tee shots.
If you’re considering the SIM 2, you should be aware of the stock shaft options available for the men’s driver, and their corresponding flex options. The choices are as follows:
| Stock Shaft Name | Flex Options |
|---|---|
| Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw Orange | 55 (R), 65 (S), 75 (X) |
| Project X HZRDUS Smoke RDX Blue | 60 (S), 70 (X) |
| Project X HZRDUS Smoke RDX Black | 60 (S), 70 (X) |
SIM 2 MAX Driver
One of the biggest differences between the SIM 2 MAX and the SIM 2 is the higher level of forgiveness. TaylorMade has achieved this through the use of a draw-biased design, which helps to minimize the impact of poor strikes. This feature has been specifically added to accommodate golfers in the 10-20 handicap range.
The SIM 2 MAX Driver comes in a range of loft options, including 9, 10.5, and 12 degrees. The driver is also available in a range of flex types to suit different swing speeds. These options range from regular to stiff and extra stiff.
| Loft Options | Flex Types |
|---|---|
| 9° | Regular, Stiff |
| 10.5° | Regular, Stiff |
| 12° | Senior, Regular |
The rest of the incorporated features are somehow similar to the standard driver; the asymmetric Sole and Inertia Generator work together to provide optimal launch conditions, while the Speed Injected Twist Face helps to increase ball speed across a broader area of the face, and the Thru-Slot Speed Pocket enhances sole flexibility for faster ball speed and improved forgiveness.
Overall, the TaylorMade SIM 2 MAX Driver is an excellent choice for golfers looking for maximum forgiveness and a draw-bias driver to help them hit straighter shots, achieve better ball flight, and improve their handicap.
SIM 2 MAX D Driver
If you’re a mid-to-high handicap golfer who struggles with slices, the TaylorMade SIM 2 MAX D Driver might be just what you need.
The draw-biased design helps to straighten out off-center hits and eliminate those pesky slices, while also providing the highest launch and most forgiveness of all three models.
The SIM 2 MAX D Driver comes with the Fujikura Air Speeder shaft as the only stock option, which is a lightweight and stable shaft that adds to the overall feel and performance of the club.
The club head also features the same advanced technology found in the rest of the SIM 2 driver family, including the speed injected twist face and the thru-slot speed pocket.
There are several loft options available for the SIM 2 MAX D Driver, ranging from 9 degrees to 12 degrees, ensuring that you can find the perfect loft angle to optimize your launch and spin rates.
Alternatives to the SIM Max 2 Driver
If the TaylorMade SIM 2 Max isn’t quite right for you, there are plenty of other options out there to consider. From competitors like Callaway and Ping to other models within the TaylorMade family, you’re sure to find a driver that suits your swing and style. Below are some of the top alternatives to the SIM 2 Max.
Callaway Epic Driver
The Callaway Epic Driver series features three different models – Epic Speed, Epic Max, and Epic Max LS – each designed to cater to specific players’ needs.
Compared to the Taylormade SIM2 driver, the Epic Speed is the closest match in terms of advanced-level design and distance potential. However, the other models in the series, Epic Max and Epic Max LS, offer different advantages regarding forgiveness and spin.
In terms of distance, the Epic Speed has excellent ball speeds across the face, similar to the SIM2 driver. However, individual results may vary depending on your swing speed and trajectory. If you’re looking for a forgiving driver head, the Epic Max is a solid option, while the more advanced players may prefer the low-spinning Epic Max LS.
TaylorMade Stealth 2
This driver is designed for golfers of all abilities who want to achieve maximum forgiveness and additional clubhead speed without sacrificing control and accuracy.
One of the key features of the Stealth 2 is the carbon design, which allows for enhanced forgiveness and a high level of playability. The driver also features three club head options, each of which is designed to help golfers achieve their desired level of ball flight and spin rate.
Compared to the SIM 2, the TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver offers a more forgiving design that is better suited for golfers who want maximum forgiveness on their tee shots. While the SIM 2 driver offers faster clubhead speeds and additional ball speed, the Stealth is optimized for those who need a little extra help getting their shots off the ground.
We’ve also tested the SIM2 vs. the Stealth 2 in this comparison guide. We have analyzed the distances attained, dispersion results, sound/feel, and other characteristics exhibited by both drivers during detailed testing.
Here are some key features that make the TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver stand out:
- Forgiving design: The driver’s carbon design allows for a high level of forgiveness, even on poor strikes.
- Suitable for golfers of all abilities: Whether you’re a high handicap golfer or a seasoned pro, the TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver has something to offer.
Titleist TSi Series
You may have heard of the Titleist TSi Series, one of the best-looking drivers on the market. This series includes the TSi1, TSi2, TSi3, and TSi4 models, each designed with various features and benefits to cater to golfers of different skill levels.
The TSi1 driver is designed for maximum forgiveness (slight draw-bias) with a large profile and lightweight construction to boost your performance and make your shots more reliable. On the other hand, the TSi4 is less forgiving but provides enhanced control and ball speed for low handicappers (with lower ball flight and ultra-low spin).
One of the unique features across the TSi series is the all-black design, providing a sleek and stylish look on the course. The TSi3 also caters to maximum adjustability with a sliding weight that allows you to customize your ball flight and spin for optimal launch and distance.
Let’s take a closer look at the different features and benefits of each TSi driver:
| Model | Forgiveness | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| TSi1 | Most forgiving | Large profile and lightweight construction |
| TSi2 | Forgiving | More traditional pear-shaped head design |
| TSi3 | Adjustability | Sliding weight for ball flight and spin customization |
| TSi4 | Least forgiving | Provides enhanced control and ball speed for low handicap players |
Ping G425 Series
There are three different models of the Ping G425 driver to choose from: the G425 Max, the G425 SFT, and the G425 LST.
The G425 Max is the most forgiving option with a high MOI (moment of inertia) design that helps you maintain ball speed even on off-center strikes.
The G425 SFT is draw-biased, making it an ideal choice for golfers who tend to slice. Finally, the G425 LST is a low-spin, high-skill level driver that allows experienced golfers to control the trajectory of their shots.
One of the main benefits of the Ping G425 series is that it includes options for virtually every skill level. The G425 Max, in particular, is an ideal choice for golfers who want to maximize forgiveness and distance. Additionally, Ping’s sleek black design language stands out on the driving range or golf course and is sure to turn heads.
If you are looking for a driver that will help you hit longer, straighter drives with minimal effort, the Ping G425 Series is definitely worth considering.
Cobra Radspeed Series
Like Taylormade, Cobra is a reputable golf brand known for producing quality clubs, and the Radspeed series lineup offers a driver for every type of golfer.
The Radspeed driver is the low spin option, perfect for those seeking optimal ball speed and a penetrating ball flight. The Radspeed XB is the most forgiving option suitable for high-handicappers or players who struggle with mishits. The Radspeed XD is the draw-biased option, ideal for frequent slicers.
This driver has been engineered with a back weight, giving off one of the highest moment of inertia (MOI) on any Cobra driver for outstanding stability and accuracy on off-center hits. Additionally, its carbon fiber crown and sole provide enhanced discretionary weight and optimal launch conditions.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, the Cobra Radspeed series can fit your game because of its adjustable features. You can customize the driver’s loft and lie to ensure that your shots have the ideal shape and trajectory.
Additionally, it comes with MyFly technology, allowing you to add or decrease loft and launch conditions while maintaining the driver’s legal limits in the USGA and R&A.
FAQs About the TaylorMade SIM 2 Driver
It’s time to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions about this remarkable driver!
What Is the Difference Between The SIM 2 and SIM 2 MAX?
The SIM 2 is designed for players with high swing speeds who are looking for distance rather than forgiveness. It has a low spin rate and mid-launch design that helps with achieving optimal launch conditions.
On the other hand, SIM 2 Max is for players with higher handicaps as it has a higher launch and lower spin rates, which enhance forgiveness and support inconsistent strikes.
One of the significant differences between the SIM 2 and SIM 2 Max is the placement of their center of gravity (CG).
The SIM 2 has its CG positioned more towards the front top, which helps golfers achieve a lower spin rate and longer drives.
In contrast, the SIM 2 Max has a rearward CG placement that enhances forgiveness and supports a higher launch angle.
Another key difference between the SIM 2 and SIM 2 Max is that the former has a draw-biased design, which helps promote a right-to-left ball flight. At the same time, SIM 2 Max has a neutral bias that allows for customization according to individual preferences.
Is The SIM 2 Driver Adjustable?
The TaylorMade SIM 2 driver is adjustable but with some limitations.
This driver features an adjustable hosel that allows for loft adjustment and shot shape bias. The hosel can increase or decrease the loft by +/- 1.5 degrees, which can help adjust the launch angle and spin rate of your tee shots. By adjusting the hosel, you can also create a draw or fade bias for those who need it.
The driver also includes a weight adjustment feature that can affect the launch and spin numbers. It has a rear weight that can slide along the weight track, creating a draw or fade bias. Moving the weight toward the heel creates a draw bias, while shifting it toward the toe creates a fade bias. By doing this, you can optimize your launch and reduce the spin on your shots.
However, there are limitations to the adjustability of this driver. The loft adjustment range of +/- 1.5 degrees is not as wide as other drivers on the market, and the driver doesn’t have a movable weight like some of its competitors. So, if you’re looking for a fully adjustable driver, the SIM 2 driver may not be the right choice for you.
How Forgiving Is the SIM 2 Driver?
The SIM 2 Max driver’s design centers around forgiveness, with specific features that cater to high handicappers.
The SIM 2 Max’s forgiving nature is unmatched by its other models in the range, making it the perfect choice for golfers who struggle to hit the sweet spot consistently.
One of the features that contribute to the SIM 2 Max’s forgiving nature is the added weight in the rear and the bottom of the driver’s head. This added weight helps move the center of gravity (CG) further back.
The driver’s inertia generator also helps create more forgiveness on off-center hits and benefits golfers who need help getting their shots airborne.
However, there is a slight trade-off in forgiveness for ball speed and distance. The trade-off is only minimal, and the SIM 2 Max is still a high-performing driver, but there may be a slight loss in ball speed and distance when compared to other driver models in the SIM 2 range.
Is There a Women’s Version Available?
Yes, there is a women’s version of the TaylorMade SIM2 driver available. The women’s version provides female players with the same benefits as male players in terms of distance, forgiveness, and workability, but with a shaft that is tailored to their swing, offering maximum playability.
Lady golfers can choose between the same three models as men – the SIM2, the SIM2 Max, and the SIM2 Max-D. The only difference between the women’s and men’s versions is the shaft flex and length.
Lady golfers can also consider custom shaft upgrades to optimize their performance on the course. Customization options for shafts can improve consistency and overall performance, making it more tailored toward individual game improvement.
Where Should You Buy the SIM2 Driver Online?
PGA Tour SuperStore is a trustworthy option to buy golf equipment, including the SIM2 driver. They offer competitive pricing and excellent customer service, including a try-before-you-buy program and trade-ins.
Another reputable seller of golf equipment is Amazon. They offer low prices and quick shipping, making it a convenient option for those who want to purchase the SIM2 driver quickly and easily.
If you’re looking for a more cost-effective option, consider purchasing a certified pre-owned SIM2 driver from Callaway Pre-Owned. They reshape the clubhead and rebuild the driver from scratch to give you optimal performance, making it a good choice for those on a budget.
Finally, the official TaylorMade store also sells the SIM2 driver, although they mainly offer the newest models and typically have higher prices than other sellers.
Be sure to compare prices and check for available deals to ensure you get the best value for your money. Ultimately, the most important consideration should be choosing a seller that offers a good balance of authenticity, price, and customer service.
Conclusion
The Taylormade SIM 2 driver is a top-quality golf club that offers a range of benefits and unique features. The driver’s carbon sole, thru-slot speed pocket, and speed injection twist face all contribute to faster clubhead speeds, optimal launch, and enhanced forgiveness. Its rear weight and weight track also allow for customization and fine-tuning to suit different swing speeds and player preferences.
We were simply impressed by this excellent driver, especially since its predecessor raised the bar really high, and we didn’t expect the SIM2 to take it even higher (which it did).
Cutting-edge technology has been used in the making of the SIM2 series of drivers to squeeze every last bit of performance, which translates into the higher selling price of the clubs. We assure you, however, that if you decide to get one yourself, you will not be disappointed. It will be worth every penny you spend!
Feel free to share your thoughts or ask any questions about the TaylorMade SIM 2 driver in the comment section below.
Happy Swinging!
