The XXIO 13 ladies driver forms part of the latest range of premium clubs from the Japanese manufacturer, which is aimed at mid to high handicappers with a slow to moderate swing swing speed. I tested XXIO 12 in 2022, and I absolutely loved it, so I was keen to find out how this new edition compares with its predecessor and if it will remain as one of the best drivers for women.
The colorway and styling of the large clubhead hasn’t changed a great deal. The crown remains a striking deep blue and it’s very shiny. Personally, I like it, but some women might be put off, as it reflects in bright sunlight. There’s a subtle alignment aid on the top of the crown that’s mixed in with tiny diamond-shaped accents, while the sole of this updated model has a more streamlined design in two-tone blue and silver.
(Image credit: Alison Root)
In fairness, because I had previously been impressed by the XXIO driver, I felt comfortable and confident with it in my hands as soon as I stepped on the tee. It feels nicely weighted, and without realising, one of the secrets of this driver is that there is mass in the butt-end of the shaft, under the grip and behind your hands. It’s designed with this counterweight to make it easier for women to take the club away, to find the ideal spot at the top of their swing and for easier release on the downswing.
The weight of this driver with a 11.5 degree loft suits me perfectly and It is definitely one of the most easy-to-use drivers that I have tested this year, along with the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke MAX Fast. I won’t blind you with science, but let’s just say, in addition to the swingweight, this driver is packed to the hilt with technology, and is testament to its performance.
(Image credit: Alison Root)
Of course, we all want forgiveness on every shot, and the new ActivWing technology, which basically helps guide the clubface into the optimal strike position, means that you can find the sweet spot more easily and improve ball speed.
Forgiveness is great, but what impressed me most was that with better ball speed came improved carry and distance, and I consistently gained extra yards. Credit should be given to the Rebound Frame with a Flat Cup Face that acts like a spring within a spring and it’s this that helps to generate more power across the face. The face is also split into six sections, known as Bulge and Roll, so wherever you strike it on the face, spin is imparted to help the ball stay straight and fly…
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