By Scott Kramer
The problem with drivers? Versatility. While great off the tee, they’re generally too large to hit directly from the deck for most people. And that’s where mini drivers can help out. These are smaller-headed, higher-lofted, shorter-shafted versions of popular driver models that occasionally come to market. They’re not only easy to tee up with, but also playable right off the fairway grass – behaving more like a long fairway wood in that regard. This month brings two fresh new options. Callaway’s 340cc Elyte Mini Driver ($449) is offered in adjustable base lofts of 11.5 and 13.5 degrees. It’s actually more forgiving and easier to launch than a fairway wood, claims Callaway, and features neutral, fade, and draw settings. With an aerospace-grade carbon crown and AI smart face, the clubhead is aerodynamically shaped for maximum speed, improved forgiveness, and tight dispersion. And Titleist’s GT280 Mini ($499) is just 280cc and sports 13 degrees of loft, which is adjustable, along with forward/aft CG. PGA Tour pros Cameron Young and Will Zalatoris have used it in competition. A forged L-Cup face wraps around the bottom of the clubface, making for a deeper face than a fairway wood’s. It helps retain ball speed, eliminate excessive spin, and enhance sound and feel.