Four years ago, Jailbreak revolutionized drivers, and two short years later A.I. did the same. Now, Callaway’s A.I. technology is actually revolutionizing the Jailbreak system, in a big way.
Today, Callaway is officially announcing their new Epic Speed metal woods lineup and looks to build on why is has been the #1 selling driver in golf as well as on worldwide Tour’s. There is much pressure that comes with the Epic name given the success of the past iterations, but as would be expected, Callaway believes they’ve taken yet another jump in performance and overall fitting potential.
For this article we will dive first into the drivers, and then the fairways. Are you ready?
Callaway Epic Speed Drivers
Being real, the Epic driver and Jailbreak is what cemented Callaway as being right at the top of the game, it was, and frankly remains, a cutting-edge design. There are a few companies out there who might have just ridden that wave as long as they could adding some slight tweaks here and there but not messing with the overall formula. Well, Callaway doesn’t do that, they only know one way, and that is forward at all times.
The inclusion of A.I., and we are talking true A.I. that is learning and evolving itself with each use, not just a simple computer program that companies have been using for years and now have slapped the A.I. name on for marketing, was another game changer with Epic Flash. The ability to use the face design in order to accomplish things that were only possible before with head shape and internals has unlocked another world of performance possibility.
With Epic Speed, Callaway turned the A.I. not just toward the face design, but also the Jailbreak design, and the result is what they are calling Jailbreak A.I. Speed Frame technology. By designing the Jailbreak simultaneously with the clubfaces they’ve found a more efficient design which you might have been seeing on the company’s various social media outlets featuring their players. The original design uncoupled CT and COR from each other, and this design now works with Flash Face to create and even higher overall COR at a set CT, translation? More speed through the more effective geometry as well as the way the now four connection points stiffen the body vertically and horizontally.
Speaking of Flash Face SS21, each driver does indeed have a unique face design to maximize performance aspects in relation to where golfers for each model typically strike the face. The other big aspect to the Epic Speed driver designs is the Advanced Composite Design. As the name indicates, Callaway has sought to utilize their Triaxial Carbon more effectively and with the Speed drivers the crown to body connection has been moved more toward the face which means more composite being used, and a savings of over 18 grams that could be repositioned. Additionally, they are using a “Toe Patch” on the sole which has enabled a more effective internal weight shift for the designs.
Now, to the options.
The Epic Speed will be the fastest driver head of the trio within the lineup. This one utilizes the Cyclone Aero Shape which originated for Callaway with the standard Mavrik model. Compared to the Epic Flash, this shape is considerably lower drag which in their testing has shown up to a 1.5 MPH increase in overall clubhead speed. This head also has the same forward CG as the Mavrik, but with a higher MOI through the weight savings from the amount of Triaxial Carbon in the design, the head will also have a mid-spin profile and moderate natural draw bias. While there is no sliding weight on the Speed model, it does still utilize Callaway’s adjustable adapter.
Next, the Epic Max is what Callaway considers their most forgiving Epic driver ever. It will also be the highest launching head of the lineup, but the improved aerodynamics compared to the Mavrik Max set it apart with speed potential as well as a higher overall MOI. The Epic Max is the most draw biased of the options but also features an adjustable adapter and a 17g sliding weight in order to fine tune for each player.
Finally, there is no Sub Zero this go around because the movement on Tour is currently away from a super low spinning driver with players actively seeking out a spin profile more in the mid 2,000 RPM range. So, the Epic Max LS has been born. This is the “better player” driver of the lineup, but it is a totally different configuration than Sub Zero possessing the aforementioned spin profile but also over 8,400 MOI, making it shockingly forgiving. The goal here is a super neutral driver which also has the most fade potential of the three heads. The Max LS also features an adjustable adapter and utilizes a 13g APW weight.
All three drivers will be available in 9°, 10.5°, and 12° versions with the Project X Cypher (40g, W/L), and Project X HZRDUS Smoke IM10 (50g, R/S and 60g, S) as standard options for the Epic Speed and Epic Max, with the Mitsubishi MMT (60g, S/X and 70g, S/X) for the Epic Max LS.
Callaway Epic Speed and Epic Max Fairways
It wouldn’t be a release without Callaway flexing their muscles with new fairway woods which aim to continue on the lineage they have established as some of the longest and most playable on the market. For the Epic Speed line there are two models, both focused on playability and firepower.
Both options also feature Flash Face SS21 utilizing a forged C300 maraging face and high strength Face Cup which is a big part of what makes their fairways so effective. As is expected, A.I. is here and each model and every single loft of each have a uniquely designed face which is optimal for how that club is typically utilized.
However, it is important to mention that the fairways don’t use the same Jailbreak which the drivers do. Because of the differences in size, profile, and design features like the Face Cup, a new design was necessary for the fairways. So, the Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades were born. This also increases the horizontal and vertical stiffness of the head for better energy retention and transfer, but it fits the needs of the fairway woods and even increases the torsional stiffness. A huge aspect to this design falls in Callaway aiming for these fairways to have the same CT as drivers, and the new Velocity Blades ensure the Face Cup can flex and help create that energy. The Mavrik fairways approached driver CT, but Callaway is claiming these reach it, and if that is the case, then hold on tight.
The Epic Speed Fairway has the more forward CG of the two options and according to Callaway is lower spinning when compared to the Mavrik. With that, there is a new leading edge which has helped optimize tee and turf performance as well as the previously discussed design elements placing this one into an area falling between what the Mavrik and Mavrik SZ fairways were, distance with launch and forgiveness. The shaft options for the Speed will be the new Project X Cypher (40g, W/L), Project X HZRDUS Smoke IM10 (60g, R/S and 70g, S), as well as the Mitsubishi MMT (70g, X – with 80g custom order) and will be available in 3+, 3W, 4W, 5W, 7W (13.5°, 15°, 16.5°, 18°, 21°).
On the other side, there is the Epic Max Fairway. This is the shallower faced of the two, but it also has the larger, somewhat oversized profile. After talking with their fitters about the Mavrik Max designs, Callaway realized that the sole weight to the draw side didn’t really influence things all that much, so it has now been replaced with a front and back weighting design which is reminiscent of the old 816 in terms of placement.
This is a 14g and 2g adjustable system which can be used to influence the spin and MOI possibilities. Additionally, the company believes that the better player who fits into the Epic Max LS driver can play either of these because of the ability to put that heavy weight forward and bring down the spin. The shaft options for the Epic Max will be the new Project X Cypher (40g, W/L) and Project X HZRDUS Smoke IM10 (60g, R/S and 70g, S). It will be available in 3+, 3W, 5W, HW, 7W, 9W, and 11W (13.5°, 15°, 18°, 20°, 21°. 23°, 25°).
The Details
Callaway’s new Epic lineup will begin hitting fitters everywhere on 2/4/21 and be on the shelf come 2/18/21. Prices for the Epic Speed, Epic Max, and Epic Max LS drivers will come in at $529.99 alongside the Epic Max and Epic Speed fairways at $299.99. Additionally, at the time of release, Callaway will be offering the new clubs through their Callaway Customs program which will undoubtedly make many golfers happy.
Are you excited or curious about the new Epic lineup from Callaway? Be sure to let us know what you think both below as well as on the THP community. Rest assured, we will have these in hand very soon with much more to come!
Full report demanded.
Will give my thoughts for sure. Given my mega rusty NY frozen tundra swing, it may focus solely on looks, feel.
I’m also curious if they will even have a good LM (like the GC4 or TM) for the testing. I’m guessing not, but fingers are crossed.
Did you bring your fitted Tsi2
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GC2? GCHawk?
Nope. This isn’t a formal fitting, just the run of the mill Callaway rep trying to drum up interest and purchases. Not for the gear nerds…
I’m really just looking to try the clubs a bit for look and feel.
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The Max was going left a bit on me, but the weight was in the heel and I didn’t have the time to ask the guy to move the weight. The Max of course has that more stretched look to it, which I really dont mind personally. It gives me more confidence tbh.
The speed profile is quite small in appearance and the shaping just doesnt totally suite my eye and comfort. I hit it a few times and it was nice, but I didn’t give it much chance on looks tbh.
The LS would be my preference overall.
Funny, the rep gave me his info and asked me if I would want to manage demo days! I gave him a taste of my THP nerdom…. ?.
Lastly…I tried the Pro hybrid quickly – whoa mama! It looks fantastic and feels even better. Callaway might sell millions of them. I was very impressed.
Numbers comparable to what you’d like to see?
Looks like the foresight range, what unit do they use there?
That’s awesome! I know a guy who’s a demo rep. Gets an entire bag of Callaway clubs each year to play. Got to go to Carlsbad before too.
Yeah, GC2 I guess?
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Should give the same ball readings as GCQuad. Just no club data. Still a great LM to see ball flight.
great thoughts! could you tell much difference between max and max ls? they looked so similar to me at address.
I thought there was a pretty big difference between all the models tbh. The speed is def smaller, quite rounded, almost pear shaped. The LS is a subzero/triple diamond baby shape. And the Max reminded me a bit of the Titleist TS2 ish shape. More rounded and extended out at the back. Quite confidence inspiring…
Honestly…..so difficult for me to say. I guess the simple answer is NO. BUT that is because my swing is a hot mess at the moment. I have not played or practiced in quite some time. I really didn’t look much at the numbers because I figured they wouldn’t be a true reflection of where I could be once I can practice and play a bit. I did peek at a few ball speed readings and they seemed quite good for me right now, upper 150s.
I was mostly curious about the looks, setup and feel/sound.
Speed is a very good driver. Is it worth the funds to upgrade from the Mav?!?!? To each his own I guess.
Get fit…kind of a cop out answer!
Aren’t both a similar shape? I hit my son’s Mavrik the other day on the range and it feels great, especially when hit on the screws. I think the new Jailbreak gives you more horizontal/vertical retention of ball speed? Someone in the know will know. But I’m guessing you get more ball speed over more of the face. Since it is a more compact looking driver, if you’re looking for an excuse to buy – I’d take that one.
In my multiple testing sessions I have found Speed 9° to average 1.8 mph more ball speed than my Mavrik 9°. I use my shaft and add weight to the Speed so it weighs the same as my Mavrik (I bring my extra weights and a scale). Launch is a bit higher with Speed than Mavrik and spin is within 160 rpm on average. So I will comfortably say, Speed has a bit more ball speed in it.
I like my Mavrik Max but like everyone here im always looking at new releases hoping to improve my game. Driver has actually been one of the more consistent aspects of my game ( compared to iron play) and the Mavrik Max has been pretty good for me. Im not sure how much of an improvement the Epic Max would be over the Mavrik Max. After reading posts here including @JB post about the LS my interest is up . I have stayed away from sub zeros because i didnt think i had the game for one i never even tried one. I believe i would benefit from the lower spin of the LS. When i was in Golf Galaxy today talking with the manager who i know and have played with he thinks the LS is where i would see a possible significant difference and it would definitely be playable for me. The good news is my credit card rewards program gives me Golf Galaxy points so i wont trade in my Mavrik Max if i make a move i will keep it around in the event that the LS if i get it either takes an adjustment period or doesnt work out. I am in no hurry because around here there is a chance we wont get out until at least some time in mid to late March. In the meantime ill continue to follow this thread and whatever other info is available from THP through podcasts or otherwise. Keep those posts coming.
I think with Max and Max LS, it will depend on angle of attack and shaft choice. You can knock that weight over to the toe for a more neutral flight. But I saw where the big knocker on TXG, Matt, preferred the Max…. so it all depends.
I got rained out of a round today, but before the rain came, I was on the driving range and Callaway was doing a demo day at this particular course. I knew one of the guys. I didn’t have a time slot set up, but he handed me an Epic Max LS with a Ventus Blue. I also got to hit it with the new Graphite Design Tour AD HD shaft, which was the first time I had ever hit this particular Graphite Design shaft. I didn’t get to see any numbers and it was cold, but I was still very impressed with the head. It definitely had some fade bias to it. It was hitting the window I wanted as perfectly as I could ever ask for.
I love the new Epic Max… The only reason I haven’t bought is I’m waiting to see the new PXG Gen 4 drivers that will be out in March.
I can play year round, though, so the smart move would be to wait 6 months when the Epic Max shows up on Cally Preowned for about $300, and PXG will have who knows how many price adjustments on the Gen 4’s?
I just have to hope I’m patient enough to wait, lol.
I like your mindset here. They might be great, but my Mav is too. I’ll definitely want to tinker with the new line but I can wait until it hits CPO in like… 7 months!
Xander seems to be creating enough buzz with his drastic reversal in driving stats since the switch to Epic. Pretty impressive.
Also, it seems like many of the staffers made the switch to Epic pretty early in the season. I think that’s pretty good buzz on it’s own.
Every year TM’s new driver seems to get more buzz. This year in particular, it’s good but in many ways a step sideways. Callaway just keep plugging along in the shadows which is unfortunate because their entire range is excellent! TM‘s marketing team out does them all.
I think Callaway has had the best selling driver for a few years now.
Let’s just say I’ve got a tough choice ahead of me. I got fit earlier this year for a driver. Unfortunately, due to some swing changes and injuries the shaft setup just doesn’t work for me. So while at a demo day trying irons, I gave the drivers a shot. Immediately preferred the look of the Speed down by the ball, so we started there. First tried the MMT 60 shaft, but that wasn’t the best fit. Next we tried the iM10 – which I thought felt really good. We tried it at full length, then the fitter suggested playing it shorter as I was still leaving the ball out to the right.
At -1" I didn’t lose any clubhead speed, and was finding the center of the face more – the blocks turned into push draws, and ball speed was EXTREMELY consistent. The thing about the club that most impressed me was the sound/feel. Just incredibly solid as compared to both the G410 LST I have and the Epic Flash. In both the 410 and the Flash I have the club draw weighted, so the slight draw bias of the speed is not an issue for me.
Really nice offering from Callaway this year. Stinks that it’s not adjustable, but for those that fit into it I think the Speed is going to be a big hit.
Not sure I agree with you on Xander creating a buzz with his driver… I hate to sound snarky, but the only thing buzzing around him lately has been his inability to avoid the bridesmaid rep, and finish on Sundays.
The guys who create buzz are DJ, Bryson, JT and very recently Spieth ( Koepka also?) and none of them are on Callaways staff.
When your big guys are Xander and Rahm, you’re not moving any needles. You put any of the guys I just mentioned, or Rickie Fowler out there, and nobody is following Xander and Rahm over them.
If I had to put money on it, I’d agree with you on that.
The thing is, is that more a reflection on the quality of their product, or their name recognition and marketing budget?
For example… you will never convince me the Rogue driver line was better than the G400 or M2/M3 lines of drivers they were competing with.
The Flash line was meh, and although the Maverick drivers got great reviews, I never saw them in the wild down here until they popped up on CPO. Once they did, people started buying them.
Maybe it’s a regional thing, but my club hosts a ton of college matches. You see a lot of Titleist and TM drivers in their bag. As for the older guys, the bag drops are full of transients and locals playing Ping drivers. I realize this is as random as random gets, but when I dabbled with the Cobra SZ Extreme last year, mine was the only bag I ever saw with a Cobra driver in it…
I was able to hit said combination and I just wasn’t happy with the outcome. Hitting super spinny shots that were flaring up and no rollout. I was averging nearly 3100 rpm. No Bueno.
I asked for that shaft with the Epic head. He handed me an Epic Max Ls. With my near negative AOA I do struggle with too much spin.
Good lord that Epic Max LS is a Spin killer. I immediately dropped to the 1900-2100 range. Distance, carry and total went through the roof. They have a set smash factor of 1.37 so I don’t have a lot of faith in a realistic set of numbers. But apples to apples was a massive difference.
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At launch and for months after that, the MAVRIK line was the number one selling driver line in golf by a pretty good margin. To compound that, market share doesn’t include items like CPO, which would have no bearing on the results.
In a parallel not related to this thread, you hear things about marketing budget with drivers, yet not only isn’t it the largest budget, but you would rarely hear someone say that about a brand’s golf ball spend, which dwarfs most. To take it a step further, you could make the case the easiest tell is what products are leading in fitting bays at brand agnostic fitters…I can’t think of a single brand out there that does not advocate for fitting.
Yeah, the Sim drivers are a mystery to me… the only guys I’ve seen hit them well are on tv. As for the Sim 2? It’s all in the eye of the beholder, but it just looks like a cheap club to me… that was my issue with the Maverick.
Like you, the Epic Max easily performed better for me. The 400 Max has been so reliable though, in the back of my mind, I keep hearing a voice that says “stick with what works, get the 425 Max and stop over thinking things”.
Fit matters. There is no one best.
Flash and Mavrik sold EXTREMELY well worldwide, fwiw. Basing things off a region or local haunts is always a microcosm of the big picture.
I can speak on Junior and college golf as well though, Callaway is making MASSIVE inroads there because kids are going and getting fit rather than starting with a brand bias, and there is a growing amount of Chev in there bags, particularly at driver.
Yes, it was, and for sure it was a really good driver. I was referring more to what I see down here in the Myrtle Beach area.
I was up on Long Island last year around the holidays, and the Maverick was creating a ton of buzz, and preorders were through the roof. Down here, not so much.
You’re 100% right about getting fit. I think I mentioned this earlier in the thread, but up until a couple of years ago my club had a Callaway Performance Center adjacent to our range. Our members were getting the best fitting experience in the region, right at our doorstep.
I can’t tell you how many of us were bagging the Apex cf16 or XR irons with Recoil shafts and playing MD3 wedges, all with those cool Lamkin neon green grips….
*MASSIVE* ?
Yes, massive. And once again, I stand by it, and see it daily in my jobs.
They’ve shed their “old guy club” connotation fully when it comes to junior golfers, and it’s showing.
You going nekkid?
I mean I didn’t really feel I had a choice. ?
YES!!!!
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She looks mean! Bombs will ensue my friend.