Since their re-launch in 2017, Cleveland Golf has traditionally been on a 2-year release cycle with their drivers. In 2017, we saw the “re-birth” of the Launcher HB, followed by the Launcher HB Turbo in 2019. 2021 brought a trio of Launcher XL drivers, and finally, last year the Launcher XL2 proved to be a sneaky good option for those looking for no-nonsense forgiving driver. What’s the reason for this brief trip down memory lane? Because Cleveland Golf is so excited about their latest driver creation, they have seemingly altered their typical release strategy and are announcing the new HiBore XL and HiBore XL Lite drivers today.
Let’s start our discussion on the history of the Cleveland HiBore by looking back at the original model released in 2006. Known for its scoop-backed crown design, the HiBore is recognized as a driver that significantly influenced the conversation around how club shaping can enhance design and benefit golfers. It’s important to revisit the original HiBore, not only because of its name similarity to the new HiBore XL but also because Cleveland is once again pushing the boundaries of design in ways that will capture attention.
The new Cleveland HiBore XL driver models are the most forgiving in the brand’s history, and they have achieved this through several innovative features. First, the overall size of the face has been increased by 19% compared to the Launcher XL2. A larger face offers several advantages for golfers, including a more prominent sweet spot and more surface area to counteract extreme off-center strikes. If you’ve ever felt nervous standing over the ball, that extra 19% can help ease those first tee jitters. I know which tee box I would want that larger face and extra confidence for.
Behind this larger face is Cleveland’s MainFrame XL, which incorporates a variable thickness pattern designed to enhance ball speed on off-center hits. MainFrame XL has been meticulously designed based on thousands of A.I. simulations to optimize the sweet spot.??The benefit is that the result can still be favorable even if your contact isn’t perfect.
To accommodate the larger face design, Cleveland needed to ensure that the driver remained within the USGA legal limit of 460cc, which required a new shape. After all, no one wants to upset the USGA. With the assistance of artificial intelligence, the research and development team devised a solution by tapering the sides to create a triangular shape. This design not only meets the compliance requirements but also allows for a lower and deeper center of gravity within the clubhead. It may look different from every driver on the market, but the performance benefits could be worth it.
For those who remember the original HiBore driver, another notable aspect beyond its unique crown design was the sound, which some might consider an acquired taste. Cleveland aimed to ensure that the sound profile would provide a pleasing experience even with its unconventional shape. As a byproduct of the triangular body design, both the sole and crown were able to be stiffened, which helps reduce vibrations. According to Cleveland, this not only improves the impact sound but also could make it “music to your ears.”
As our R&D research has developed hand in hand with advancements of our A.I. simulation capabilities, the realization came that removing the constraints of a ‘traditional’ looking Driver shape would allow for new and exciting performance opportunities. By taking advantage of the unique HiBore philosophy of a performance first design, we were able to unlock levels of forgiveness and distance that weren’t possible before. But there is one key difference with the new model compared to that of the past…it also sounds great!”
Casey Shultz, Senior Product Manager at Cleveland Golf
Over the years, Cleveland has successfully integrated technologies from Srixon, one of its sister brands. This time, Cleveland has incorporated a feature called ActivWing, which initially debuted on XXIO metalwoods. ActivWing is located on the heel side of the crown and enhances aerodynamics. Unlike many discussions about aerodynamics focusing solely on increasing swing speed, ActivWing improves stability during the downswing. This stability helps ensure a more consistent delivery of the clubhead at impact. As a result, players can expect improved performance in distance and forgiveness, along with better downrange dispersion.
When it comes to fine-tuning the HiBore XL driver, there are two main options available. Both the HiBore XL and HiBore XL Lite models feature Cleveland’s adjustable hosel, which allows for 12 different loft and lie settings in 0.5° increments. Additionally, the back of the XL model contains a 12-gram stainless steel weight. Extra weights will also be available for purchase in 2 grams, 8 grams, and 16 grams. It’s important to mention that golfers can custom order their HiBore XL and have their preferred sole weight pre-installed.
It’s important to note that the Hibore XL Lite head lacks an adjustable sole weight. However, the Lite model targets a slightly different demographic of golfers. The Hibore XL is designed for golfers with average to above-average swing speeds who prefer a more neutral flight path. In contrast, the Hibore XL Lite is aimed at golfers with moderate swing speeds who require additional spin and can benefit from some internal draw weighting. Both models are available in lofts ranging from 9° to 12°.
Cleveland has chosen a Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue 55 shaft for the Hibore XL, which provides a mid-launch and mid-spin profile. For the Hibore XL Lite, the stock shaft is the Aldila Ascent PL 40, designed to enhance weight savings and produce a higher launch compared to the Tensei AV Blue. Regardless of which model you choose, both feature an 8-gram weight positioned at the butt end of the shaft to counterbalance the club. Cleveland refers to this as Action Mass CB, promoting it to help golfers improve their control. If control is your top priority, remember that Cleveland offers an accurate build. This build is 1/2″ shorter than the standard 46″ length and removes the 8-gram weight for counterbalancing.
I’ve always believed that if Cleveland were to bring back the HiBore name, they would need to do it with a driver that breaks the mold. Just like the original model from 2006, and they have accomplished exactly that. The new HiBore XL and HiBore XL Lite drivers feature a larger face and a triangular shape, designed to provide an extremely forgiving experience that can help golfers enjoy the game even more. Assuming you’ve read this far, what do you think about the new hope? Is it something you could see yourself trying or adding to your bag? Be sure to visit the THP Forum and share your thoughts!
The Details – Cleveland HiBore XL Driver
Release: December 6, 2024
Price: $399.99
Models: HiBore XL, HiBore XL Lite
Shafts: XL – Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue 55 (R, S)
XL Lite – Aldila Ascent PL 40 (L, A, R, S)
Dexterity: HiBore XL – RH Only and HiBore XL Lite – RH/LH
More information is available at us.dunlopsports.com/cleveland-golf
