Can TaylorMade improve their wildly successful Stealth driver with their new Stealth 2 in 2023?
We think it’s a definite yes although it’s not quite as drastic as a change from the previous SIM drivers. But TaylorMade has said this is their most forgiving driver yet.
“Way past far and into FARGIVENESS. Introducing the all-new Stealth 2, combining the elements of speed and forgiveness to unlock FARGIVENESS.”
The TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver might be just what your driver game needs to hit more fairways and easier approach shots. Let’s take a closer look at the new TaylorMade Stealth 2 driver(s) and see why it made the Golf Digest Hot List in 2023.
TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver Price and Specs
The new TaylorMade Stealth 2 drivers are extremely forgiving, high-launching, and very long off the tee. The drivers are available in four lofts (depending on which driver head you select); 8, 9, 10.5, and 12-degrees.
Regardless of which model you buy, all driver heads are 460cc – the maximum size allowed. I’m a bit surprised there isn’t a smaller head model as most manufacturers have a 430-450 cc head which is preferred by lower handicap golfers.
The drivers are available in RH/LH models, except the 12-degree driver which is available only for right-handed golfers. The driver is 45.75 inches long which is flirting with the 46-inch limit allowed by the rules of golf.
Lastly, these drivers have several shaft options and depend on the model:
- Mitsubishi Kai’li Red (high launch, mid-spin)
- Project X Hzrdus Black (low launch, low spin)
- Mitsubishi Diamana S+ (mid-launch, mid-spin)
- Fujikura Ventus TR Red 5 (mid-high launch, mid-spin)
- Fujikura Speeder NX Red (high launch, mid-high spin)
All new TaylorMade drivers come with a Golf Pride Z-Grip Plus 2 grip. These are standard size, black/red, and match the driver head perfectly.
TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver Review
According to TaylorMade this club is as forgiving as ever. They made golfers familiar with Carbon in 2022 (aka the “Carboonwood Age”) and now this driver has even more than before.
How much more carbon?
Nearly twice as much which means It’s even more forgiving – higher MOI – compared to the original Stealth driver. Since it uses more of the lightweight material for the clubhead design they can redistribute the mass for more stability and forgiveness on off center strikes.
Not only is it impressively forgiving, it’s also faster than ever too. The new TaylorMade Stealth 2 drivers offer a new 60x carbon twist face to naturally increase ball speeds even more.
“The new design features an enhanced version of Inverted Cone Technology to help maintain ball speed on off-center strikes and increase forgiveness. ”
TaylorMade also inserted a 25 gram tungsten weight to optimize launch angles which has a direct impact on total driving distance by lowering spin rates. These drivers also have an upgraded acoustics for a premium sound and feel with every strike.
Looks and Feel
At first glance, there aren’t as many visible changes compared to when TaylorMade released the Stealth after the SIM and SIM 2 drivers. That was a big change as the head shape, color, and material took a 180-degree turn.
But the Stealth 2 is an even more vibrant red and sure to turn heads at the golf course. The small TaylorMade logo in the center makes it easy to line up and ensure the face is aimed at the target.
Performance
It’s longer and more forgiving than the Stealth 2 thanks to the new design and extra carbon. Golfers are raving about the increase in ball speed by switching from Stealth to the Stealth 2.
Technology and Features
Like past TaylorMade drivers, there is a model for every type of golfer. Whether you swing at 85mph or 105mph (or more), there is a driver for you. Here is a quick review of each of the three models and customizable options too.
Lineup
TaylorMade Stealth 2
The Stealth 2 is a high-launching and forgiving driver that is catered for the everyday golfer. It is high launching but extra forgiving and has a neutral flight bias. The mid-high launch pairs well with a golfer who has an average swing speed (90-100 mph).
TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD
The TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD driver is just as forgiving as the Stealth 2 but also has built-in draw bias.
“Engineers utilized weight savings from the full-body carbon construction and shifted the Inertia Generator closer to the heel, allowing us to maintain draw-bias and extreme MOI.”
This club is more stable than ever and ideal for players who fight a slice on the golf course.
TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus
The third option in TaylorMade’s new driver lineup is the “Plus” version which is geared toward lower handicap golfers. This is the model that the PGA Tour and LIV golfers (plus skilled amateurs) will likely use due to the low spin characteristics.
Here’s what makes this model so great and likely why it costs more than the other models:
“The sliding weight track includes a single 15g weight that can be positioned for your preferred shot shape, while the FCT Loft Sleeve is used to optimize launch and trajectory.”
Consistent golfers will enjoy the extra sliding weight with adjustable hosel to match it perfectly for their ideal ball flight and trajectory.
TaylorMade MyStealth Plus 2 Driver
Also, TaylorMade does have an option to customize your driver unlike almost any other brand. With the MyStealth 2 Plus Driver (only available in the Plus head) you can customize the face with nine colors, six composite ring options, and more. It does cost more ($729.99) but guarantees that your driver will be truly one of a kind.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Better sound profile.
- Fantastic red and black design.
- MyStealth 2 allows for maximum personalization.
- Nearly twice as much carbon means more forgiveness which is great for all types of golfers.
Cons
- Wrench not included.
- Not a huge change from the original Stealth driver.
- Lack of stock shaft options makes it hard to customize each player’s unique swing.
Alternatives to the TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver
Callaway Paradym Driver
The Callaway Paradym Driver is a great alternative for golfers looking for a driver that offers maximum distance and forgiveness.
It features an aerodynamic head shape which helps reduce drag, allowing for faster clubhead speed and more distance.
Additionally, it has a lightweight graphite shaft which helps increase swing speed and accuracy.
The club also has a low center of gravity, making it easier to launch the ball higher with less spin.
Overall, this driver is perfect for mid-handicappers who are looking for increased distance without sacrificing accuracy.
Ping 430 Driver
The Ping 430 Driver is another great option for those seeking more distance off the tee.
This driver features a large 460cc titanium head which provides plenty of forgiveness on off-center hits.
Additionally, its lightweight graphite shaft helps increase swing speed and accuracy while its low center of gravity makes it easy to launch the ball high with minimal spin.
This driver is ideal for mid-to-high handicappers who want to hit longer drives with greater accuracy.
Cobra Aerojet Driver
Finally, the Cobra Aerojet Driver is an excellent choice for golfers who want maximum distance and forgiveness from their driver.
It features an aerodynamic head shape which reduces drag and increases clubhead speed, resulting in longer drives off the tee.
Additionally, it has a lightweight graphite shaft which helps increase swing speed while its low center of gravity makes it easy to launch the ball high with minimal spin.
This driver is perfect for mid-to-high handicappers who want maximum distance without sacrificing accuracy or control.
Wrap Up
TaylorMade made some subtle changes to the technology more so than the appearance of the driver. The new Stealth 2 drivers are more forgiving than ever thanks to the 460 cc clubhead, re-disturbed weight, and high-launch characteristics.
There’s no doubt this is a top driver in the golf world but the price is steep. The Plus model is even more than most and all Stealth 2 drivers are around $600 which is likely too high for beginner golfers.
But if you’re a serious golfer who wants the most out of your tee box game these are a great drivers. If you’re still playing an old TaylorMade driver, it’s well worth the upgrade.