Ping G400 SFT
£389 www.ping.com
◆ Lofts: 10° / 12°
◆ Shaft: Ping Alta CB55
◆ Adjustable hosel: Yes
◆ How much loft change: +/1°
TECH: SF stands for “Straight Flight”, and it’s specifically designed to help golfers iron out a slice. More mass is positioned towards the heel to help close the face at impact, counteracting the slice that plagues 80% of golfers. A slightly lighter swingweight maximises swing speed and enables slower swings to square the club face.
WE SAY: It could be said Ping has pioneered good looking draw drivers, as slice-busting SFT (Straight Flight Technology) drivers have been part of their range for years. It means the G400 comes with pedigree, and in our eyes the SFT is a proven performer – gear ed Simon’s had one in his bag since it launched last year. Data doesn’t lie and though the G400’s been a very solid fairway-finder for Simon (it was fitted) when it comes to raw speed and carry (4-5mph slower ball speed and seven yards down on both the Rogue and M4) it didn’t quite compete with the Callaway or Taylormade. There’s lots to look at on the G400’s crown, but because the head’s wrapped in a matt finish the details merge into the background.
TOP GEAR VERDICT
Make no mistake, the G400 SFT is a brilliant driver and just as effective at improving ball speed and distance for heel strikers as it is slicers. It’s got a massive MOI, so it’s hugely forgiving and a great fairway finder, even if for Simon it wasn’t quite able to produce the fastest ball speeds or carry distances in our test.