Ping

Why we like it
Ping has always brought off-centre-hit stability to its driver designs. Like old-school power forwards, each of the G430 drivers occupies space and swats away mis-hits before they get started. Tungsten weighting in the rear perimeter fuels that stability, but don’t overlook the face as a source of original power. Its special titanium alloy is selectively thinner than past models, but the structure around it and its overall size now allow it to transfer more energy to the ball for better all-around distance.

G430 Max 10k

• The at-the-limit size makes for the company’s most stable head.
• A fixed 28-gram rear weight boosts stability.
• This driver’s forgiveness is a boon for aggressive swingers.
• 9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel).

Top 5 most forgiving, drivers, high-handicappers

G430 Max

• Offers draw-fade adjustability with a 25-gram perimeter weight in three settings.
• A thin T9S+ titanium alloy in the face promotes better energy transfer.
• More of a neutral ball flight in the standard setting compared to the other models.
• 9, 10.5, 12 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel).

Top 5 best rated, drivers, middle-handicappers

G430 SFT

• Two adjustable-weight positions to the heel side help minimise a slice.
• A thin variable-thickness face provides more potential ball speed and distance.
• Available in a 15-percent lighter HL build for moderate-swing-speed players.
• 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel).

Top 5 most forgiving, drivers, all handicap groups

G430 LST

• Its relatively compact shape targets better players seeking low launch and spin.
• A 22-gram tungsten weight has three positions for tweaking a draw or fade.
• The carbon-composite wrap in the back half of the crown helps lower spin.
• 9, 10.5 degrees (with an eight-way adjustable hosel).

Top 5 best sound/feel, drivers, low-handicappers