In golf, the equipment manufacturers push new drivers every year, promising more distance, better forgiveness, and groundbreaking technology. But what if the best golf driver of 2024 isn’t actually the shiny new model sitting on the pro shop shelf?
Our deep-dive video, “Why is the Best Golf Driver of 2024 from 2022?”, challenges the industry narrative, pitting a specific, proven model from 2022 against the current crop of drivers. The results are surprising, showing that golfers might be spending too much money for minimal performance gains.
The Law of Diminishing Returns
Modern golf drivers, thanks to USGA regulations, are all operating at the absolute limit of the Coefficient of Restitution (COR)—the “spring-like effect” of the face. This means that for two years now, the actual speed a driver can generate on a perfect center strike hasn’t fundamentally changed.
So, why does the 2022 driver often outperform or match the 2024 model?
- Peak Technology: The 2022 model in question reached a peak in aerodynamics and weight distribution that subsequent models have struggled to significantly improve upon.
- Forgiveness Factor: This specific 2022 driver offers a unique combination of high Moment of Inertia (MOI) and low spin, a balance that many modern designs have failed to replicate perfectly for the average golfer.
- The Price Advantage: The biggest win is the value. A two-year-old flagship driver can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of the 2024 release, offering near-identical performance for a massive saving.
Head-to-Head: 2022 vs. 2024 Data
We put the drivers through rigorous testing using a launch monitor, focusing on the three most critical metrics for the amateur golfer:
| Metric | 2024 Driver Average | 2022 Driver Average | Key Takeaway |
| Ball Speed | 148.5 MPH | 148.1 MPH | Virtually identical—the legal limit is the limiting factor. |
| Spin Rate | 2450 RPM | 2400 RPM | The 2022 model was slightly lower spinning, leading to better distance. |
| Total Carry Distance | 255 Yards | 257 Yards | The 2022 driver surprisingly delivered a small carry advantage. |
The data confirms the suspicion of many gear experts: the performance gap between generations is rapidly shrinking, making the previous generation the smarter investment.
Don’t Be a Victim of Hype
The video is a crucial lesson for any golfer considering a new driver purchase: don’t buy into the hype without checking the facts. The Best Golf Driver of 2024 for your money and performance might be sitting in a discount bin.
The 2022 driver provides a compelling mix of technology that is still current, massive forgiveness, and outstanding value.
Curious which specific driver from 2022 we crowned the “Best Golf Driver of 2024”? Check on YouTube