Not in the least. Tiger is bigger and badder than ever. AK isn't too shabby himself, proving that his petite frame is capable of hitting towering drives.
So, what are we talking about? Well, the next time you catch these two players hitting tee shots on television, pause your DVR anywhere you have a chance to take a peek at their new 3-woods...
Here's the secret: Those aren't 3-woods. Both Tiger and AK have allegedly (I say allegedly because it's unofficial) been using 380cc versions of Nike's DYMO driver.
380cc? Huh?
That's 80cc's smaller than the limit. Tiger is on record saying he's always preferred a smaller head, which makes sense when you're a tour player who frankly, misses the sweetpot a lot less often than we do. Also, a smaller head helps prevent too much backspin---a common frustration fast swingers have when using 460cc heads.
For the rest of us though, 460cc heads aren't going anywhere. At least not for now. Some companies have scaled down a bit (the TaylorMade r9 is 420cc's), but generally club manufacturers agree that bigger is better in terms of overall forgiveness and distance. Then again, who knows? Maybe club companies are starting to look towards smaller heads to help further optimize launch/spin for an even greater mass of golfers.
Check it out. And no, you can't head to the shop and buy a 380cc DYMO driver. They are prototypes only. (Above photo is of the regular DYMO, not the prototype.)
Labels: tiger woods anthony kim smaller driver clubhead 380 pga tour three 3 wood equipment in the bag nike