The new GTS drivers

Titleist

For years, I played Titleist clubs almost exclusively. But the past few years, I felt some other brand drivers I tried performed better for my game. So they went in the bag. But I kind of miss a trusty Titleist driver. So a few weeks ago, I took advantage of a local Titleist fitting session to see if one of the new GTS drivers might earn its place in my bag.

My fitter had me take about 15 swings with my current gamer. And I was crushing it. So I asked him to try and at least duplicate my settings with the GTS. And over the next 15 minutes, he did. I ultimately settled on a GTS2 11-degree model armed with a sleek-looking Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Red RIP 55 shaft. As well as I was hitting the driver I brought with me, my fitter showed me how I picked up some ball and clubhead speed with the Titleist, and gained about 5-to-8 yards on average with a tight shot dispersion. Sold.

In fact, GTS was designed to boost ball speed and stability. There are three models — GTS2, GTS3 and GTS4 — with distinct performance profiles and more adjustability than before, allowing golfers to dial in their flight to what they want. A new “Split Mass” frame concentrates mass rearwards to increase stability and inertia, and low-forward to optimize speed and launch dynamics. Its body is made from a proprietary polymer that saves weight. And the face helps improve performance all across, particularly on high-face contact.

The lineup is comprised of three models that collectively cover a wide range of player needs and preferences. GTS2 is for golfers wanting more power and consistency across the face through a fast and forgiving design. It launches the ball high with mid spin. GTS3 is for players who want more control over speed and flight. It yields a lower launch and spin than GTS2, and features a more compact profile with a deeper face. GTS4 is the lowest-spinning model, and will attract anyone looking to reduce high spin rates to maximize distance. It has a new tour-inspired shape and at 460cc, is larger in volume than its predecessors. And that significantly boosts forgiveness on off-center hits.

More than 50 PGA Tour pros have already put these in play, including Justin Thomas (GTS2 9.0) and Jordan Spieth (GTS2 10.0). Like everything else in life, these are more expensive than in the past – starting at $699.

While I’ve only tried it at the driving range, I will be putting mine in play on a real course this weekend. I really miss the inviting look of Titleist drivers, and this one captures it perfectly. As a side note, I also grabbed a matching 4-wood. Trying it during my fitting session, I was wowed by how similar the feel and performance was between the driver and fairway wood. The lively way the ball jumped off the clubface was fantastic. This might be just the spark that my long game needed.