Choosing the best driver for under £400
Need a new golf driver but not got a huge budget?
Golf club manufacturers have started to invest more into new technology, materials and marketing strategies, which explains why the price of drivers has skyrocketed in the past decade – with some of the best in the market costing around the £500 mark.
For some golfers, this is a worthwhile investment, as the latest technology will help them to improve their performance on the course. However, some players simply can’t afford to splurge that much money on one golf club and would much prefer to spend under £400.
Having a driver that works well for your swing is key to playing your best golf. But a new driver needn’t break the bank.
Let’s take a closer look at what you need to do to find the best affordable golf driver.
5 key factors to consider when buying a driver on a budget
Size
When shopping for a golf driver, it’s worth bearing in mind that the larger the clubhead, the more forgiveness it will provide. So, when you hit the ball, note where you strike it with the face of the club.
You also want a driver that suits your eye when it’s behind the ball. If it’s too big, there’s a chance it could put you off. If it’s too small, it may reduce your confidence.
This is where a custom fitting can come in handy – allowing you to practice with different drivers and determine the best one to add to your golf bag.
Weights
Fixed
Not all golfers see the need for adjustable weights and, if you’re looking for cheaper drivers, it can be a good thing. As there are fewer mechanisms in clubs with fixed weights, they’re often priced more affordably.
Movable
Most brands are creating models that incorporate a weight at the back of the clubhead. These drivers improve forgiveness, launch and, in some cases, help you to ace a slice.
Alternatively, mass can be repositioned to a larger section of the clubhead, i.e. closer to the edge or at the front, to reduce the angle of the launch and spin.
Shaft
Length
There’s no standard length with drivers. Manufacturers offer different models with varying shaft lengths – usually between 43.5” and 47”, whilst some reach the maximum allowance of 48”!
The longer the shaft, the more speed your clubhead will produce. However, these are often harder to control and may also decrease the distance on off-centre hits.
Our best advice is to choose the longest driver possible that you can still hit accurately and consistently (checking the price tag, of course).
Weight
The weight of a driver’s shaft won’t necessarily affect your swing but it will impact your control of the club.
Heavier shafts are ideal for players who prefer less spin and low ball flight, whereas lightweight shafts deliver more spin and higher launch. To curve the ball in the air, you should go for a driver with a bit more weight.
Loft
The loft is the amount that the clubface slopes back and should match your swing.
The slower your swing speed, the more loft you’ll need. For golfers with an average swing speed, a driver with a loft of 10.5° to 12° should suffice.
A driver with an adjustable loft is always favourable, as it can enhance your precision.
Price
Above all, when looking for drivers, you need to consider how much you can realistically afford to spend on such golf equipment.
There are some fantastic drivers out there for £400 and less – so you’re sure to find something within your price range.
Just make sure you set yourself a budget and stick to it!
Ready to invest in a driver?
Here at Clarkes’ Golf Centre, we’re proud to stock the latest and greatest golf drivers on the market today, from renowned brands such as TaylorMade, Callaway and Ping.
We understand that golfers have different needs and budgets. Which is why, in addition to our high-end clubs, we also provide a variety of affordable drivers – starting from just over £200.
Browse our range of golf drivers for sale in full and click on the products for more details.
Once you’ve found the perfect driver for your budget, click ‘add to basket’ and checkout. It’s as simple as that.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or you’d like to know more about choosing drivers for under £400, don’t hesitate to contact our team. Always on hand to help, we’d love to hear from you.
Why not give us a call on 01744 885 294 or drop us an email at admin@clarkesgolf.co.uk?
Alternatively, visit us in-store and our specialists will discuss your requirements face-to-face. Whilst you’re here, you can also check out our extensive range of golf equipment in person.