Although you likely already knew that Callaway was the number one driver in golf for 2023, you may not have realized they achieved that same ranking in fairway woods with their Paradym lineup as well. As such, the task to keep pushing the envelope can be a daunting one because there is a fine line of firepower and playability that has to be walked.
Last time around, it was done via the integration of Forged Carbon, but this time things are being kicked up a notch not only in terms of those materials, but also the entire concept of what a face design in a fairway can be.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Fairways
If you have read our release on the Ai Smoke drivers from Callaway, then you’ll not be surprised when we tell you that the fairway woods are also not simply a sequel. Just because they carry the Paradym name on them doesn’t mean there aren’t some significant changes, in fact, Ai Smart Face might be the most significant change we have seen from Callaway in their AI era.
One thing you absolutely have to admire about the companies who are creating the best fairway woods out there is that they all treat them as their own thing. Gone and dead are the days of just trying to take what you put into the driver designs and put it into fairways. A good example of that is when Callaway took their newly created AI “Swing Code” which utilizes “Real Player Swing Dynamics” of 250,000+ recorded swings from fitting centers and studios to create 80,000 lines of custom code and applied it to their fairway designs.
That code is the key to the creation of Callaway’s new “Ai Smart Face” which uses radically outside the box topographic designs created for each model uniquely using the real swing and path tendencies of actual golfers as opposed to a perfect path robot. What they saw immediately was that although the specific traits like speed, path, and face angle were as expected for each model, the strike locations for golfers in fairway woods were drastically different than with driver.
Overall, strikes were much lower on the face according to the data, which makes sense as most amateurs tend to get steep with fairway woods. This combined with the various swing traits are what lead to the implementation of four different fairway heads (MAX, MAX D, MAX FAST, and Triple Diamond) for the Ai Smoke release, each with an Ai Smart Face to optimize the clubhead for the needs of that golfer type.
However, there are still other design changes worth noting. Namely, the implementation of Forged Carbon in the Paradym fairways was a huge catalyst to their success in what it allowed for discretionary weight shifting in the design. One thing that Callaway knew could take things even further was if they could do away with the two support structures on the sole of the fairway between the Forged Carbon. They turned to their dedicated “Composite Engineering Team” and found a solution with a Forged Carbon application and chassis that no longer needs those beams for support.
That change freed up 24 grams of weight, of which 12g was moved back to increase launch and the other 12g shifted to the Tungsten Speed Cartridge which was the unsung hero of the Paradym release. That added weight forward has made for higher launch with less spin, according to Callaway. Everything adds up to the belief that the Paradym Ai Smoke fairways are still incredibly long, but are now also more accurate downrange than ever.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke MAX Fairways
The flagship design which the biggest number of golfers should end up in, the MAX is the do it all offering in the lineup. It is aimed at the golfer with mid-speed with a moderately down, but not crazy, angle of attack combined with slightly out-to-in swing path. The Ai Smart Face is tuned also for a somewhat consistent strike pattern that ranges from the low heel to high on the toe.
Callaway is making the MAX model available in 3, 3HL, 5, 7, 9, 11, and also Heavenwood options.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke MAX D
Those looking for a true draw designed fairway should look this way as the MAX D checks that box. The swing code implementation here is the golfer who has a strike pattern all the way from heel to toe with most occurring low on the face. Typically, the slower speed player has a definite out-to-in swing path and battles a hard downward attack angle and open face at impact.
The MAX D will be offered in 3, 3HL, 5, and 7 wood models.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke MAX FAST Fairway
As with the drivers, it is nice to see Callaway essentially bring what has been the STAR release that occurs later in the year out at the same time as the main lineup. That is precisely the target of the MAX FAST which aims at golfers who fight the same strike tendencies as the MAX D but need more speed than natural draw bias.
The MAX FAST will come in 3, 5, 7, and 9 wood options.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Fairway
Don’t worry, Callaway isn’t about to have a fairway release without the Triple Diamond. Geared at the player who finds the center of their fairway woods most of the time at higher swing speeds and a neutral path, this remains the “workable” and “players” fairway of the bunch. It is important to note, that because of the smaller shape and deeper face, the sole of the Triple Diamond is not Forged Composite like the others, but instead steel. It does still utilize the Triaxial Carbon crown, however.
The Triple Diamond will be offered in 3, 5, and 7 wood models.
The Details
While all initial eyes will be on the new drivers to see if they can deliver on surpassing what was the most successful release of 2023, they will soon fall to these Paradym Ai Smoke fairways in a very similar fashion. There is a lot to live up to, but if the Ai Smart Face implementation delivers, then Callaway might not just maintain their #1 played tally but extend it.
Standard shaft options will consist of the Mitsubishi Eldio and Tensei Silver for the MAX FAST drivers as well as the Mitsubishi Tensei AV Series Blue, Project X Cypher 2.0, and Project X Denali Black for the rest of the clubheads. The entire lineup will be available for pre-sale on 1/14/24 with product hitting retail on 1/26/24 and will be priced at $349.99.
[QUOTE=”JonD, post: 12324734, member: 5907″]
It’s a once every few rounds club for me but part of me wishes I’d gone with the 3HL over the 5W.
[/QUOTE]
You can always carry both…. Just saying. No laws with the smokes!
Yeah, the 3HL just makes me laugh some times. Straight penetrating laser rockets today. My coach said what got into you with the fairway. It just clicked well today.
I saw some mid-high penetrating ball flights, carry was about 205 with range balls. Played 9 holes after and saw about 210 carry with rollout to 220 (had quite a bit of rain so not much rollout).
Today felt effortless. I didn’t have to drive the club through the ball, just a good turn back and a good turn through.
This club has completely changed my mind on fairways – I was so close to dumping them all together. I generally had a 5w in my bag just to carry one but almost never used it. Not anymore. I smile in anticipation of pulling this 3W HL out!
Was on a short course today so only got to hit 2 shots with the TD 3 wood, wet conditions weren’t really helping off the deck but still ended up crushing one off an uphill lie and overshot the fairway off the tee trying to lay up. Wish I could’ve had more chances at hitting it.
Played 2 rounds this weekend with my new fairway woods.
Max D 3 HL – hit some good tee shots and fairway shots, but need to practice a little with this to get my fairway ball position down.
Max D 7 wood – hit 12 rough / fairway shots. The best fairway performance for me ever. Consistent 205 – 215 distance and dead straight. Supreme!
Smoke 9 wood – same great dead straight consistency as the 7 wood. 185 – 200 distance. Love it!
Came home today after golf and ordered the smoke 11 wood. I’ve always liked my hybrids, but these things are ridiculously powerful and straight for me. :love:
So mercy this wood was rolling yesterday at my Tuesday evening league. It out drove my group routinely including a 265-270 smoked fade off the tee on a semi dog leg left. My random foursome actually gave me a standing ovation for my 3 wood driving at the end of the round. ?. Might be a highlight of 2024 tbh. ?
[QUOTE=”Pharaoh, post: 12338763, member: 60146″]
So mercy this wood was rolling yesterday at my Tuesday evening league. It out drove my group routinely including a 265-270 smoked fade off the tee on a semi dog leg left. My random foursome actually gave me a standing ovation for my 3 wood driving at the end of the round. ?. Might be a highlight of 2024 tbh. ?
[/QUOTE]
That is awesome. The Triple Diamond 3w is an absolute beast for me–it’s an amazing combination of low spin and forgiveness that I have not seen before.
[QUOTE=”Pharaoh, post: 12338763, member: 60146″]
So mercy this wood was rolling yesterday at my Tuesday evening league. It out drove my group routinely including a 265-270 smoked fade off the tee on a semi dog leg left. My random foursome actually gave me a standing ovation for my 3 wood driving at the end of the round. ?. Might be a highlight of 2024 tbh. ?
[/QUOTE]
Sounds like something you can definitely count on and that’s huge!!
The 11 wood? That sounds amazing.
What will your bag setup look like after that? Love the idea of the added FW to the bag.
[QUOTE=”Jeff Spicoli, post: 12339088, member: 10545″]
That is awesome. The Triple Diamond 3w is an absolute beast for me–it’s an amazing combination of low spin and forgiveness that I have not seen before.
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[QUOTE=”jlew, post: 12339218, member: 40346″]
Sounds like something you can definitely count on and that’s huge!!
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Absolutely. I meant dog leg right lol. The one guy who has played tournaments who with me was like “God that’s beautiful“ lol. Definitely a great timing with some big events coming up. It’s gonna be needed no doubt.
Started finding my swing again the other day with the 5W and HW while in the sim. Its funny how quickly it can come and go somehow.
Working on things from my instructor to get away from the “sweep” idea with my wood swing to get some distance and ball flight improvements.
It is definitely getting there!
The freaking 3W HL was insane on fire recently. Today – zero bad shots and some absolute gems!
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235 from a 3W ????? Yeah I stuffed the bed after that for a bogey but dang – this club crushed it
And another one!
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I’m only expecting 210 out of this club but Bada Bombs here!
[QUOTE=”brians, post: 12339266, member: 44109″]
The 11 wood? That sounds amazing.
What will your bag setup look like after that? Love the idea of the added FW to the bag.
[/QUOTE]
Hey brians,
Moved away from the 4,5,6 hybrids and went to 7, 9, 11 smoke woods. Still have 2 hybrids (7+8 smoke HLs) and 8 – GW irons, + wedges. The woods are so easy to hit and laser straight for me. The smoke HL hybrids are long, so move to 7+8 from 6+7. I also have /use the Max D 3 HL for short par 4s. Still working on the fairway shot with that one.
The balance and weight of these woods are just fantastic. They really freed me up from my 4+5 hybrid struggles.
Just picked up my TD 7 wood after waiting 5 weeks for it to arrive…yes I said 7 wood. I surprised myself when buying it because I was looking for a new hybrid but at a fitting day I hit this so well I just had to buy it. Can’t wait to play tomorrow to see how it goes on the course…fingers crossed it’s as good as it was on the range.
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12346984, member: 73409″]
Just picked up my TD 7 wood after waiting 5 weeks for it to arrive…yes I said 7 wood. I surprised myself when buying it because I was looking for a new hybrid but at a fitting day I hit this so well I just had to buy it. Can’t wait to play tomorrow to see how it goes on the course…fingers crossed it’s as good as it was on the range.
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I am curious about this one. How does it look at address compared to TD 3 and 5w? I’ve only glanced at TD 5w in person once and it looks much more compact than 3w
[QUOTE=”Hokie2018, post: 12347044, member: 78737″]
I am curious about this one. How does it look at address compared to TD 3 and 5w? I’ve only glanced at TD 5w in person once and it looks much more compact than 3w
[/QUOTE]
I never actually saw the 3w or 5w. I was doing a driver fitting and this was a little bit of an afterthought to try. I think it’ll take a little getting used to seeing what looks like a lot of loft to me (even though it’s similar to the 3 hybrid it’s replacing) but i like the look. Here’s a pic.
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[QUOTE=”duker51, post: 12345394, member: 12459″]
Hey brians,
Moved away from the 4,5,6 hybrids and went to 7, 9, 11 smoke woods. Still have 2 hybrids (7+8 smoke HLs) and 8 – GW irons, + wedges. The woods are so easy to hit and laser straight for me. The smoke HL hybrids are long, so move to 7+8 from 6+7. I also have /use the Max D 3 HL for short par 4s. Still working on the fairway shot with that one.
The balance and weight of these woods are just fantastic. They really freed me up from my 4+5 hybrid struggles.
[/QUOTE]
Great to hear. When you say balance are you talking about weight distribution? Or something else?
The Max D 3HL is the real deal. I’m really liking what I am seeing with this club so far.
[QUOTE=”Bernoulli, post: 12348373, member: 42734″]
The Max D 3HL is the real deal. I’m really liking what I am seeing with this club so far.
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Completely agree, what aspect of the club makes you say that?
LPGA has to get rid of the Granny dress code. These are adult athletes. Let them make adult decisions about what they wear.
[QUOTE=”Bryndom, post: 12348622, member: 53516″]
Completely agree, what aspect of the club makes you say that?
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I hit 2 greens today from 190-200 yards out. That’s good for me as it was cold and wet.
I have never had much success with a 3w off the deck. It’s different with this club.
[QUOTE=”Bernoulli, post: 12348701, member: 42734″]
I hit 2 greens today from 190-200 yards out. That’s good for me as it was cold and wet.
I have never had much success with a 3w off the deck. It’s different with this club.
[/QUOTE]
Totally agreed. The club is different in a good way. Easy to hit, easy to launch, smooth distances
[QUOTE=”Bryndom, post: 12347656, member: 53516″]
Great to hear. When you say balance are you talking about weight distribution? Or something else?
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Probably should of said swing weight B. These woods just feel like they accelerate on their own coming into the ball for me. Most likely compatible with my feel preferences. Using the stock Tensi 65 shaft in regular.
For whatever reason, I was in positions to use the 7W a lot today, and it delivered every time. It’s so effortless to hit, and wants to fly straight and high every time I swing it. I was 3/3 fairways hit using it off the tee.
[QUOTE=”BigMac, post: 12351098, member: 3386″]
For whatever reason, I was in positions to use the 7W a lot today, and it delivered every time. It’s so effortless to hit, and wants to fly straight and high every time I swing it. I was 3/3 fairways hit using it off the tee.
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Point and shoot 😎
I’ve been struggling with the 3w Max D recently. I have a two way miss with it and it’s frustrating. Several instances today after my first two shots where I opted for a 5i leaving myself a longer shot into a few par 5’s. Really need to figure this out or look at dropping it out of the bag for maybe a 2nd driver…
[QUOTE=”Mmaynard11, post: 12351118, member: 19877″]
I’ve been struggling with the 3w Max D recently. I have a two way miss with it and it’s frustrating. Several instances today after my first two shots where I opted for a 5i leaving myself a longer shot into a few par 5’s. Really need to figure this out or look at dropping it out of the bag for maybe a 2nd driver…
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Slice/hook? Or pushing/pulling? Or a mix? Sometimes I feel like my swing gives me a miss worse on my long clubs if my swing is off, or I’m not missing to my usual direction.
Could be game if Callaway does get their mini driver out soon though ?
[QUOTE=”Hokie2018, post: 12351146, member: 78737″]
Slice/hook? Or pushing/pulling? Or a mix? Sometimes I feel like my swing gives me a miss worse on my long clubs if my swing is off, or I’m not missing to my usual direction.
Could be game if Callaway does get their mini driver out soon though ?
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It could be swing related Afro sure, but one swing it will be a duck hook and the next a low bullet. Playing the Hzurdus Smoke in it, so could be the shaft. Time to throw my UST Mamiya shaft in it.
[QUOTE=”Mmaynard11, post: 12351183, member: 19877″]
It could be swing related Afro sure, but one swing it will be a duck hook and the next a low bullet. Playing the Hzurdus Smoke in it, so could be the shaft. Time to throw my UST Mamiya shaft in it.
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Hopefully your shaft change leads to a fix. Would imagine a change in results in any capacity might feel better for you
[QUOTE=”Hokie2018, post: 12352247, member: 78737″]
Hopefully your shaft change leads to a fix. Would imagine a change in results in any capacity might feel better for you
[/QUOTE]
It definitely would and provide a bit more confidence in that area of the bag. I’d rather eliminate it and add another club that would get use.
[QUOTE=”Mmaynard11, post: 12352259, member: 19877″]
It definitely would and provide a bit more confidence in that area of the bag. I’d rather eliminate it and add another club that would get use.
[/QUOTE]
Hopefully you find something to fill the top of your bag. I’m struggling to fill the gap between 3w and 4i with clubs I currently own and definitely have been pondering just replacing whatever I have been using there with a new club.
Finally got to play today with my new TD 7 wood for the first time (Sunday’s round got cancelled). I hit it 5 times all of which were great strikes (high and pretty straight). It’s going a little shorter than I hoped but it was also a little cold and windy today so I know the air was heavy. Hoping I get a few more yards when it warms up to keep a better gap above my 4 iron. I was really impressed at how good it feels and how easy it is to hit.
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12353287, member: 73409″]
Finally got to play today with my new TD 7 wood for the first time (Sunday’s round got cancelled). I hit it 5 times all of which were great strikes (high and pretty straight). It’s going a little shorter than I hoped but it was also a little cold and windy today so I know the air was heavy. Hoping I get a few more yards when it warms up to keep a better gap above my 4 iron. I was really impressed at how good it feels and how easy it is to hit.
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That’s good first time out results! Were any of the shots from trouble spots? (Bare lies, first cut of rough etc?) it’s just become so ch a go to from every where that I’m genuinely curious how everyone is using them.
[QUOTE=”brians, post: 12353292, member: 44109″]
That’s good first time out results! Were any of the shots from trouble spots? (Bare lies, first cut of rough etc?) it’s just become so ch a go to from every where that I’m genuinely curious how everyone is using them.
[/QUOTE]
They were all off the tee or from a fairway…but I will hit it out of the rough. I think it’ll slide through rough well unless it’s really thick.
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12353305, member: 73409″]
Do itThey were all off the tee or from a fairway…but I will hit it out of the rough. I think it’ll slide through rough well unless it’s really thick.
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[IMG alt=”do it jewish GIF”]https://media3.giphy.com/media/wi8Ez1mwRcKGI/200.gif[/IMG]
You will love it
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12353287, member: 73409″]
Finally got to play today with my new TD 7 wood for the first time (Sunday’s round got cancelled). I hit it 5 times all of which were great strikes (high and pretty straight). It’s going a little shorter than I hoped but it was also a little cold and windy today so I know the air was heavy. Hoping I get a few more yards when it warms up to keep a better gap above my 4 iron. I was really impressed at how good it feels and how easy it is to hit.
[/QUOTE]
Hopefully you will see some distance gains as it warms up, definitely keep us updated how you get on with them!
I order a hl not sure if I need one or not but I love trying clubs need a 205-215 club hopefully comes in by the weekend
[QUOTE=”allsportscoach, post: 12354885, member: 1255″]
I order a hl not sure if I need one or not but I love trying clubs need a 205-215 club hopefully comes in by the weekend
[/QUOTE]
Hope it comes in, but definitely let us know what you think about it after giving it a try!
I used the 7W off the tee 5 times today, 5 fairways hit.
Pro tip: It can kinda piss off your buddies if you outdrive them using your 7W when they’re hitting driver. :ROFLMAO:
Got my hl fairway only had time tonight for a few swings but love the feel height and distance know more by Monday I’ll probably adjust the loft up and down
Early Season Check In (well early for me), A brief chat about the Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood and Heavenwood.
The Clubs:
Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Ai Smoke Max Heavenwood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Do I think the shafts pair well with the Smoke Max heads? I think that the mid launch mid spin shafts pair well with what I am needing (primarily to get the spin under control and get things launching lower)
The Looks:
From first look, top down they look pretty similar, with that very neat smoky top and the same alignment mark. A very distinct separation between the crown and face components. Flip them over through, and the 5 Wood looks far more similar to the rest of the Smoke lineup. Smoke effect pattern through the carbon section of the sole. The Heavenwood? It has a completely different look of the sole, perhaps even more traditional in its appearance. The weights and lettering both in the striking blue that pull from the logo and design across the entire Ai Smoke lineup. As it sits, the Max HW looks more in line with the Triple Diamond woods.
Compared to last year’s Heavenwood? Very different in look!
Feel/Sound:
I feel that between the two, the sound and feel is perhaps where the 5 Wood and Heavenwood differ the most. The 5 Wood, at least to me, sounds far more similar to the Smoke Max Driver, which is a good thing. I dig having a wood sound closer to what the driver sounds like. The Heavenwood, it sounds completely different to me. We talked about it briefly when I first took posession of the clubs, that the construction of the Heavenwood itself, with the difference in weighting and materials, lends to a very different sound. That is all just by my ear mind you, and I might just be hearing things.
<INSERT SOUND CLIPS>
Ball Flight, Hits and Misses:
So what am I seeing out of the two woods, and how are they different? Keep in mind, this is primarily coming from indoors/sim work, with only one outdoor round on the books so far due to timing and weather.
5 Wood – ~185 yd carry, ~ 205 total yardage. Better Strikes bringing around a 200 carry, and rollout to 220.
Heavenwood – ~ 175 yd carry, low 190’s total yardage. Better Strikes bringing a 190ish carry, rolout to 210.
Keep in mind, these numbers were taken eliminating only the most severe of mishits.
Gapping wise? I think I have a bit of a gap when comparing driver/wood/irons at the tip end. Driver to 5W may leave me a bit wanting right now, but that is more from not seeing enough on course yet to know for certain. Honestly though, if I could consistently get to that 200 carry/220 total with the 5 wood, having that slot in behind driver that I am hitting 230-250 yd total, I am more than happy with that.
Flight wise? The 5 Wood coming out lower for me, the HW significantly higher. Normal shot shape being a cut currently, with misses being both left and right of center (the joys of working on fixing swing flaws). Mishits typically being lower on the face right now, resulting in something more akin to a low stinger, but that is on me lol.
So if I could walk into Callaway and change one thing, what would it be? I would have kept the same graphic scheme on the sole across all the woods. I realize that it is a different material, but I would love to have that Smoke look echo’d on the Heavenwood. Honestly, when the clubs arrived, having not seen one in hand in California, I thought the HW would have that same scheme.
In all honesty, the Ai Smoke Max woods have really surprised me. First round of the year, first shot on a windy day, with a swing that has left me worried, and I chose the 5 Wood to open the season. Hit it dead straight, on a hole that I have only ever used an iron off the tee, and left myself with an approach into the green in a spot I had never been before. The 5W had my attention right from the first tee, and I hope it keeps my attention like this for the rest of the season!
[QUOTE=”Just_Brad, post: 12364560, member: 9473″]
Early Season Check In (well early for me), A brief chat about the Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood and Heavenwood.
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[B]The Clubs:[/B]
Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Ai Smoke Max Heavenwood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Do I think the shafts pair well with the Smoke Max heads? I think that the mid launch mid spin shafts pair well with what I am needing (primarily to get the spin under control and get things launching lower)
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[B]The Looks:[/B]
From first look, top down they look pretty similar, with that very neat smoky top and the same alignment mark. A very distinct separation between the crown and face components. Flip them over through, and the 5 Wood looks far more similar to the rest of the Smoke lineup. Smoke effect pattern through the carbon section of the sole. The Heavenwood? It has a completely different look of the sole, perhaps even more traditional in its appearance. The weights and lettering both in the striking blue that pull from the logo and design across the entire Ai Smoke lineup. As it sits, the Max HW looks more in line with the Triple Diamond woods.
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[B]Feel/Sound:[/B]
I feel that between the two, the sound and feel is perhaps where the 5 Wood and Heavenwood differ the most. The 5 Wood, at least to me, sounds far more similar to the Smoke Max Driver, which is a good thing. I dig having a wood sound closer to what the driver sounds like. The Heavenwood, it sounds completely different to me. We talked about it briefly when I first took posession of the clubs, that the construction of the Heavenwood itself, with the difference in weighting and materials, lends to a very different sound. That is all just by my ear mind you, and I might just be hearing things.
[B]Ball Flight, Hits and Misses:[/B]
So what am I seeing out of the two woods, and how are they different? Keep in mind, this is primarily coming from indoors/sim work, with only one outdoor round on the books so far due to timing and weather.
5 Wood – ~185 yd carry, ~ 205 total yardage. Better Strikes bringing around a 200 carry, and rollout to 220.
Heavenwood – ~ 175 yd carry, low 190’s total yardage. Better Strikes bringing a 190ish carry, rolout to 210.
Keep in mind, these numbers were taken eliminating only the most severe of mishits.
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[B]Gapping wise?[/B] I think I have a bit of a gap when comparing driver/wood/irons at the tip end. Driver to 5W may leave me a bit wanting right now, but that is more from not seeing enough on course yet to know for certain. Honestly though, if I could consistently get to that 200 carry/220 total with the 5 wood, having that slot in behind driver that I am hitting 230-250 yd total, I am more than happy with that.
[B]Flight wise?[/B] The 5 Wood coming out lower for me, the HW significantly higher. Normal shot shape being a cut currently, with misses being both left and right of center (the joys of working on fixing swing flaws). Mishits typically being lower on the face right now, resulting in something more akin to a low stinger, but that is on me lol.
So if I could walk into Callaway and change one thing, what would it be? I would have kept the same graphic scheme on the sole across all the woods. I realize that it is a different material, but I would love to have that Smoke look echo’d on the Heavenwood. Honestly, when the clubs arrived, having not seen one in hand in California, I thought the HW would have that same scheme.
In all honesty, the Ai Smoke Max woods have really surprised me. First round of the year, first shot on a windy day, with a swing that has left me worried, and I chose the 5 Wood to open the season. Hit it dead straight, on a hole that I have only ever used an iron off the tee, and left myself with an approach into the green in a spot I had never been before. The 5W had my attention right from the first tee, and I hope it keeps my attention like this for the rest of the season!
[/QUOTE]
Great write up [USER=9473]@Just_Brad[/USER]! I think Callaway hit the nail on the head with the Tensei AV Blue as the stock shaft for the fairway woods. I have it in both my 3HL and 7W, and it’s a great match for me in terms of feel, stability and ball flight. No shaft is a perfect match for everybody, but I think the Tensei AV Blue will work for a pretty broad spectrum of golfers.
Driver to 5W may leave a little gap for you, but it seems like the 5W and Heavenwood gap pretty well. That’s also a pretty good comparison of the CS and CT in your launch monitor plots!
[QUOTE=”BigMac, post: 12364573, member: 3386″]
Great write up [USER=9473]@Just_Brad[/USER]! I think Callaway hit the nail on the head with the Tensei AV Blue as the stock shaft for the fairway woods. I have it in both my 3HL and 7W, and it’s a great match for me in terms of feel, stability and ball flight. No shaft is a perfect match for everybody, but I think the Tensei AV Blue will work for a pretty broad spectrum of golfers.
Driver to 5W may leave a little gap for you, but it seems like the 5W and Heavenwood gap pretty well. That’s also a pretty good comparison of the CS and CT in your launch monitor plots!
[/QUOTE]
Thx Verg!
The ball comparison stuff is coming, but that is for another thread. More on irons and Driver coming soon as well, if I can ever get the words to not sound ridiculous lol.
[QUOTE=”BigMac, post: 12364573, member: 3386″]
Great write up [USER=9473]@Just_Brad[/USER]! I think Callaway hit the nail on the head with the Tensei AV Blue as the stock shaft for the fairway woods. I have it in both my 3HL and 7W, and it’s a great match for me in terms of feel, stability and ball flight. No shaft is a perfect match for everybody, but I think the Tensei AV Blue will work for a pretty broad spectrum of golfers.
Driver to 5W may leave a little gap for you, but it seems like the 5W and Heavenwood gap pretty well. That’s also a pretty good comparison of the CS and CT in your launch monitor plots!
[/QUOTE]
The Tensei blue is an absolute winner.
[QUOTE=”Just_Brad, post: 12364560, member: 9473″]
Early Season Check In (well early for me), A brief chat about the Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood and Heavenwood.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”703px” alt=”20240519_193934.jpg”]9268097[/ATTACH]
[B]The Clubs:[/B]
Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Ai Smoke Max Heavenwood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Do I think the shafts pair well with the Smoke Max heads? I think that the mid launch mid spin shafts pair well with what I am needing (primarily to get the spin under control and get things launching lower)
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”908px” alt=”1716170362335.png”]9268093[/ATTACH]
[B]The Looks:[/B]
From first look, top down they look pretty similar, with that very neat smoky top and the same alignment mark. A very distinct separation between the crown and face components. Flip them over through, and the 5 Wood looks far more similar to the rest of the Smoke lineup. Smoke effect pattern through the carbon section of the sole. The Heavenwood? It has a completely different look of the sole, perhaps even more traditional in its appearance. The weights and lettering both in the striking blue that pull from the logo and design across the entire Ai Smoke lineup. As it sits, the Max HW looks more in line with the Triple Diamond woods.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”520px” alt=”20240519_201134.jpg”]9268094[/ATTACH][ATTACH type=”full” width=”347px” alt=”20240519_201108.jpg”]9268096[/ATTACH]
Compared to last year’s Heavenwood? Very different in look!
[ATTACH type=”full” alt=”20240108_203256.jpg”]9268108[/ATTACH]
[B]Feel/Sound:[/B]
I feel that between the two, the sound and feel is perhaps where the 5 Wood and Heavenwood differ the most. The 5 Wood, at least to me, sounds far more similar to the Smoke Max Driver, which is a good thing. I dig having a wood sound closer to what the driver sounds like. The Heavenwood, it sounds completely different to me. We talked about it briefly when I first took posession of the clubs, that the construction of the Heavenwood itself, with the difference in weighting and materials, lends to a very different sound. That is all just by my ear mind you, and I might just be hearing things.
[ATTACH type=”full”]9268116[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH type=”full”]9268115[/ATTACH]
[B]Ball Flight, Hits and Misses:[/B]
So what am I seeing out of the two woods, and how are they different? Keep in mind, this is primarily coming from indoors/sim work, with only one outdoor round on the books so far due to timing and weather.
5 Wood – ~185 yd carry, ~ 205 total yardage. Better Strikes bringing around a 200 carry, and rollout to 220.
Heavenwood – ~ 175 yd carry, low 190’s total yardage. Better Strikes bringing a 190ish carry, rolout to 210.
Keep in mind, these numbers were taken eliminating only the most severe of mishits.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”710px” alt=”20240518_103812.jpg”]9268098[/ATTACH][ATTACH type=”full” width=”711px” alt=”20240518_102905.jpg”]9268099[/ATTACH]
[B]Gapping wise?[/B] I think I have a bit of a gap when comparing driver/wood/irons at the tip end. Driver to 5W may leave me a bit wanting right now, but that is more from not seeing enough on course yet to know for certain. Honestly though, if I could consistently get to that 200 carry/220 total with the 5 wood, having that slot in behind driver that I am hitting 230-250 yd total, I am more than happy with that.
[B]Flight wise?[/B] The 5 Wood coming out lower for me, the HW significantly higher. Normal shot shape being a cut currently, with misses being both left and right of center (the joys of working on fixing swing flaws). Mishits typically being lower on the face right now, resulting in something more akin to a low stinger, but that is on me lol.
So if I could walk into Callaway and change one thing, what would it be? I would have kept the same graphic scheme on the sole across all the woods. I realize that it is a different material, but I would love to have that Smoke look echo’d on the Heavenwood. Honestly, when the clubs arrived, having not seen one in hand in California, I thought the HW would have that same scheme.
In all honesty, the Ai Smoke Max woods have really surprised me. First round of the year, first shot on a windy day, with a swing that has left me worried, and I chose the 5 Wood to open the season. Hit it dead straight, on a hole that I have only ever used an iron off the tee, and left myself with an approach into the green in a spot I had never been before. The 5W had my attention right from the first tee, and I hope it keeps my attention like this for the rest of the season!
[/QUOTE]
Great writeup! Absolutely love seeing the difference in looks between the two heaven woods.
[QUOTE=”Just_Brad, post: 12364560, member: 9473″]
Early Season Check In (well early for me), A brief chat about the Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood and Heavenwood.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”703px” alt=”20240519_193934.jpg”]9268097[/ATTACH]
[B]The Clubs:[/B]
Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Ai Smoke Max Heavenwood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Do I think the shafts pair well with the Smoke Max heads? I think that the mid launch mid spin shafts pair well with what I am needing (primarily to get the spin under control and get things launching lower)
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”908px” alt=”1716170362335.png”]9268093[/ATTACH]
[B]The Looks:[/B]
From first look, top down they look pretty similar, with that very neat smoky top and the same alignment mark. A very distinct separation between the crown and face components. Flip them over through, and the 5 Wood looks far more similar to the rest of the Smoke lineup. Smoke effect pattern through the carbon section of the sole. The Heavenwood? It has a completely different look of the sole, perhaps even more traditional in its appearance. The weights and lettering both in the striking blue that pull from the logo and design across the entire Ai Smoke lineup. As it sits, the Max HW looks more in line with the Triple Diamond woods.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”520px” alt=”20240519_201134.jpg”]9268094[/ATTACH][ATTACH type=”full” width=”347px” alt=”20240519_201108.jpg”]9268096[/ATTACH]
Compared to last year’s Heavenwood? Very different in look!
[ATTACH type=”full” alt=”20240108_203256.jpg”]9268108[/ATTACH]
[B]Feel/Sound:[/B]
I feel that between the two, the sound and feel is perhaps where the 5 Wood and Heavenwood differ the most. The 5 Wood, at least to me, sounds far more similar to the Smoke Max Driver, which is a good thing. I dig having a wood sound closer to what the driver sounds like. The Heavenwood, it sounds completely different to me. We talked about it briefly when I first took posession of the clubs, that the construction of the Heavenwood itself, with the difference in weighting and materials, lends to a very different sound. That is all just by my ear mind you, and I might just be hearing things.
[ATTACH type=”full”]9268116[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH type=”full”]9268115[/ATTACH]
[B]Ball Flight, Hits and Misses:[/B]
So what am I seeing out of the two woods, and how are they different? Keep in mind, this is primarily coming from indoors/sim work, with only one outdoor round on the books so far due to timing and weather.
5 Wood – ~185 yd carry, ~ 205 total yardage. Better Strikes bringing around a 200 carry, and rollout to 220.
Heavenwood – ~ 175 yd carry, low 190’s total yardage. Better Strikes bringing a 190ish carry, rolout to 210.
Keep in mind, these numbers were taken eliminating only the most severe of mishits.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”710px” alt=”20240518_103812.jpg”]9268098[/ATTACH][ATTACH type=”full” width=”711px” alt=”20240518_102905.jpg”]9268099[/ATTACH]
[B]Gapping wise?[/B] I think I have a bit of a gap when comparing driver/wood/irons at the tip end. Driver to 5W may leave me a bit wanting right now, but that is more from not seeing enough on course yet to know for certain. Honestly though, if I could consistently get to that 200 carry/220 total with the 5 wood, having that slot in behind driver that I am hitting 230-250 yd total, I am more than happy with that.
[B]Flight wise?[/B] The 5 Wood coming out lower for me, the HW significantly higher. Normal shot shape being a cut currently, with misses being both left and right of center (the joys of working on fixing swing flaws). Mishits typically being lower on the face right now, resulting in something more akin to a low stinger, but that is on me lol.
So if I could walk into Callaway and change one thing, what would it be? I would have kept the same graphic scheme on the sole across all the woods. I realize that it is a different material, but I would love to have that Smoke look echo’d on the Heavenwood. Honestly, when the clubs arrived, having not seen one in hand in California, I thought the HW would have that same scheme.
In all honesty, the Ai Smoke Max woods have really surprised me. First round of the year, first shot on a windy day, with a swing that has left me worried, and I chose the 5 Wood to open the season. Hit it dead straight, on a hole that I have only ever used an iron off the tee, and left myself with an approach into the green in a spot I had never been before. The 5W had my attention right from the first tee, and I hope it keeps my attention like this for the rest of the season!
[/QUOTE]
Dude! Fantastic! Those sound difference is pretty crazy and you captured it very well!
[QUOTE=”Just_Brad, post: 12364560, member: 9473″]
Early Season Check In (well early for me), A brief chat about the Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood and Heavenwood.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”703px” alt=”20240519_193934.jpg”]9268097[/ATTACH]
[B]The Clubs:[/B]
Ai Smoke Max 5 Wood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Ai Smoke Max Heavenwood – Tensei Blue 65 Reg Flex
Do I think the shafts pair well with the Smoke Max heads? I think that the mid launch mid spin shafts pair well with what I am needing (primarily to get the spin under control and get things launching lower)
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”908px” alt=”1716170362335.png”]9268093[/ATTACH]
[B]The Looks:[/B]
From first look, top down they look pretty similar, with that very neat smoky top and the same alignment mark. A very distinct separation between the crown and face components. Flip them over through, and the 5 Wood looks far more similar to the rest of the Smoke lineup. Smoke effect pattern through the carbon section of the sole. The Heavenwood? It has a completely different look of the sole, perhaps even more traditional in its appearance. The weights and lettering both in the striking blue that pull from the logo and design across the entire Ai Smoke lineup. As it sits, the Max HW looks more in line with the Triple Diamond woods.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”520px” alt=”20240519_201134.jpg”]9268094[/ATTACH][ATTACH type=”full” width=”347px” alt=”20240519_201108.jpg”]9268096[/ATTACH]
Compared to last year’s Heavenwood? Very different in look!
[ATTACH type=”full” alt=”20240108_203256.jpg”]9268108[/ATTACH]
[B]Feel/Sound:[/B]
I feel that between the two, the sound and feel is perhaps where the 5 Wood and Heavenwood differ the most. The 5 Wood, at least to me, sounds far more similar to the Smoke Max Driver, which is a good thing. I dig having a wood sound closer to what the driver sounds like. The Heavenwood, it sounds completely different to me. We talked about it briefly when I first took posession of the clubs, that the construction of the Heavenwood itself, with the difference in weighting and materials, lends to a very different sound. That is all just by my ear mind you, and I might just be hearing things.
[ATTACH type=”full”]9268116[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH type=”full”]9268115[/ATTACH]
[B]Ball Flight, Hits and Misses:[/B]
So what am I seeing out of the two woods, and how are they different? Keep in mind, this is primarily coming from indoors/sim work, with only one outdoor round on the books so far due to timing and weather.
5 Wood – ~185 yd carry, ~ 205 total yardage. Better Strikes bringing around a 200 carry, and rollout to 220.
Heavenwood – ~ 175 yd carry, low 190’s total yardage. Better Strikes bringing a 190ish carry, rolout to 210.
Keep in mind, these numbers were taken eliminating only the most severe of mishits.
[ATTACH type=”full” width=”710px” alt=”20240518_103812.jpg”]9268098[/ATTACH][ATTACH type=”full” width=”711px” alt=”20240518_102905.jpg”]9268099[/ATTACH]
[B]Gapping wise?[/B] I think I have a bit of a gap when comparing driver/wood/irons at the tip end. Driver to 5W may leave me a bit wanting right now, but that is more from not seeing enough on course yet to know for certain. Honestly though, if I could consistently get to that 200 carry/220 total with the 5 wood, having that slot in behind driver that I am hitting 230-250 yd total, I am more than happy with that.
[B]Flight wise?[/B] The 5 Wood coming out lower for me, the HW significantly higher. Normal shot shape being a cut currently, with misses being both left and right of center (the joys of working on fixing swing flaws). Mishits typically being lower on the face right now, resulting in something more akin to a low stinger, but that is on me lol.
So if I could walk into Callaway and change one thing, what would it be? I would have kept the same graphic scheme on the sole across all the woods. I realize that it is a different material, but I would love to have that Smoke look echo’d on the Heavenwood. Honestly, when the clubs arrived, having not seen one in hand in California, I thought the HW would have that same scheme.
In all honesty, the Ai Smoke Max woods have really surprised me. First round of the year, first shot on a windy day, with a swing that has left me worried, and I chose the 5 Wood to open the season. Hit it dead straight, on a hole that I have only ever used an iron off the tee, and left myself with an approach into the green in a spot I had never been before. The 5W had my attention right from the first tee, and I hope it keeps my attention like this for the rest of the season!
[/QUOTE]
Great write-up! I still need to try that Heavenwood someday
The driver is so good, now I kind of want to try the fw…
[QUOTE=”Bus, post: 12366800, member: 41947″]
The driver is so good, now I kind of want to try the fw…
[/QUOTE]
They are so easy to hit…