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September 18, 2024
Callaway AI Smoke and Cobra DarkSpeed Driver: Which 2024 Driver is Right for You?
- By Chris Hattersley
- May 3, 2024
- Custom Fitting
In the ever-evolving world of golf equipment, the driver is undoubtedly one of the most crucial and sought-after clubs. As we approach the 2024 season, two remarkable drivers have emerged as the talk of the town: the Callaway AI Smoke and Cobra DarkSpeed. These two powerhouses are poised to redefine the driving experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Callaway has long been known for its innovative approach to club design, and the AI Smoke is no exception.
Featuring a sleek, carbon-infused crown and a refined, gloss-finished look, this driver exudes a sense of sophistication and performance. Under the hood, Callaway has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to optimise the clubhead’s design, resulting in a driver that delivers unparalleled distance and forgiveness.
The AI Smoke’s Triple Diamond head option, which was the focus of this comparison, offers a low-spin profile that caters to the needs of the more skilled golfer. With its advanced aerodynamics and precisely engineered face, the AI Smoke promises to unleash your full driving potential, sending the ball soaring with exceptional speed and consistency.
Cobra, on the other hand, has made a name for itself by crafting drivers that blend cutting-edge technology with a sleek, modern aesthetic. The DarkSpeed is no exception, boasting a matte-black finish that exudes a sense of stealth and confidence. This driver’s LS (Low Spin) head option, which was put to the test, is designed to provide golfers with a controlled, low-spinning ball flight that can help them maximise their distance off the tee.
Beneath its stealthy exterior, the DarkSpeed is packed with Cobra’s proprietary technologies, including a forged H.O.T face and a lightweight carbon crown. These features work in harmony to deliver exceptional ball speed, forgiveness, and a solid, confidence-inspiring feel at impact.
When it comes to the visual appeal, both the Callaway AI Smoke and Cobra DarkSpeed offer a distinct and captivating presence. The AI Smoke’s carbon-infused crown and gloss finish exude a sense of sophistication, while the DarkSpeed’s matte-black, stealth-like appearance commands attention. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the specific aesthetic that resonates with the individual golfer.
In terms of feel, both drivers performed exceptionally well. The Cobra DarkSpeed delivered a solid, confidence-inspiring sensation at impact, while the Callaway AI Smoke offered a smooth, powerful feel that was equally satisfying. It’s worth noting that the feel of a driver is highly subjective, and golfers should prioritise the club that provides them with the most comfortable and consistent feedback. This can be done in any of our AFGolfStore’s in a FREE club fitting!
When it comes to customisation and versatility, both the Callaway AI Smoke and Cobra DarkSpeed shine. Both brands offer a wide range of shaft options, allowing golfers to fine-tune the driver to their specific swing characteristics and preferences. Additionally, the ability to adjust the loft, lie, and even the draw/fade bias of the club head further enhances the personalisation potential of these drivers.
The price point is another important consideration, with the Cobra DarkSpeed coming in at a slightly lower price tag compared to the Callaway AI Smoke. While the difference may not be significant for some golfers, it’s a factor that could sway the decision for those on a tighter budget.
Callaway Ai Smoke – £499
Cobra DarkSpeed – £429
Ultimately, the true test of a driver’s worth lies in its on-course performance. In this head-to-head comparison, the Callaway AI Smoke emerged as the clear winner, delivering exceptional distance and ball speed results. The data showed that the AI Smoke consistently outperformed the Cobra DarkSpeed in terms of carry distance and total distance, with a noticeable advantage of around 10-11 yards.
The spin rates of both drivers were remarkably similar, indicating that the Callaway AI Smoke’s distance advantage was not at the expense of control or launch characteristics. This suggests that the AI-powered design and engineering behind the AI Smoke have truly paid dividends, providing golfers with a driver that can help them maximise their driving performance.
In the end, the decision between the Callaway AI Smoke and Cobra DarkSpeed will come down to the individual golfer’s preferences, swing characteristics, and performance needs. Both drivers are exceptional in their own right, offering a unique blend of technology, aesthetics, and customisation options.
However, the Callaway AI Smoke’s clear advantage in distance and ball speed, coupled with its impressive forgiveness and control, make it the standout choice in this head-to-head comparison. However, that’s not to say it was the most forgiving! They’re both a must try.
If you’re in the market for a driver that can help you consistently bomb the ball down the fairway while maintaining exceptional control, the Callaway AI Smoke is undoubtedly a driver worth considering.
Remember, the best way to determine which driver is right for you is to schedule a custom fitting session with your nearest AFGolfStore. They can help you evaluate the performance of these two exceptional drivers and guide you towards the one that will elevate your driving game to new heights.
We can help you in a FREE custom fitting at any AFGolfStore, where we will be able to customise these clubs to your specifications with the help of launch monitor data in Trackman!
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