Choose the Right Driver with Expert Advice from Gabby Golf Girl
Choosing the right driver can make all the difference in your performance off the tee - whether you're a beginner looking for more forgiveness or an experienced golfer aiming to fine-tune your launch angle and accuracy. In this PGA TOUR Superstore Golf Clinic video, Gabby Golf Girl teams up with one of our LPGA Class A Professional fitters to explore the do’s and don’t’s of picking a new driver.
From clubhead options and shaft fittings to launch height and alignment, this session is packed with practical tips to help you get the most out of your driver and your game.
Why Driver Loft Matters More Than You Think
One of the biggest takeaways from this clinic is the importance of loft. Gabby had been using a lower-lofted driver for years because it was accurate - but it wasn’t delivering the height she needed to carry hazards like fairway bunkers.
“For beginner golfers, pro golfers - everyone is looking for height. They don’t want low shots that run out just to get more yardage. You want to have that forgiveness and have that height.”
- Gabby Golf Girl
Many golfers underestimate the value of height. A driver that launches too low might roll far, but without enough carry, you could be sacrificing distance and consistency - especially on softer turf or forced carries.
How Loft Impacts Ball Flight
- More loft leads to a higher launch angle
- Higher launch gives more carry distance
- Proper loft offers better control and land angles
Even a slight loft adjustment - from 9° to 10.5°, for example - can help you gain 20+ feet in height, which could be the difference between clearing a bunker or landing short.
Adjustable Drivers Give You More Control
Today’s drivers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Gabby tried the Taylormade Qi35 Core and the Kalea Women’s Driver, both of which feature adjustable hosels and interchangeable weights - perfect for customizing launch angle, face angle, and feel.
“The fact that you can change the loft is pretty incredible. I’m hitting the same swing that I had with my original driver, and I’m getting almost double the height.”
- Gabby Golf Girl
Benefits of Adjustable Drivers:
- An adjustable hosel allows you to change loft and face angle without switching heads.
- Custom weights influence ball flight and forgiveness.
- Shaft pairing impacts feel, speed, and launch.
At PGA TOUR Superstore, our STUDIO fittings let you try different shaft and head combinations using real-time Trackman data, so you can see how each adjustment impacts your ball flight.
Simple Drill to Improve Launch: The Spine Tilt Trick
Getting more height isn’t just about your equipment - it’s also about setup. During fitting sessions our certified trainers share insider knowledge such as how you can easily help reinforce proper spine tilt at home.
Practice Proper Spine Tilt Using this Drill:
- Stand in your setup position.
- Take your trail hand (right hand for righties) and touch the side of your trail knee.
- Feel the spine tilt toward your rear side. This promotes an upward strike with the driver.
Get Your Ball Position and Alignment Right
Another common issue faced by golfers is incorrect ball position and alignment. Gabby recommends placing the ball just off your front foot’s instep and using alignment sticks to practice a consistent stance.
Alignment Tips:
- Place the ball forward in your stance.
- Keep a slight spine tilt away from the target.
- Use alignment sticks during practice to ensure your body lines up with your intended target line.
Custom Driver Fittings Can Make All the Difference
In the video, Gabby sees measurable improvement in height and overall performance just by testing a driver with slightly more loft and a lighter shaft. PGA TOUR Superstore’s professional fitting services allow you to experience similar personalized results.
What’s Included in a Custom Fitting:
- Access to multiple driver heads and shaft options
- Use of advanced launch monitors to analyze ball flight
- Cutting edge technology that maps your swing and identifies areas of improvement
- Expert guidance from certified PGA TOUR Superstore fitters
Whether you're a high handicapper looking for more forgiveness or a competitive player fine-tuning your launch conditions, our fitting services help you find your ideal driver setup.
Take the Next Step Towards Finding A Better Driver
The right driver can add distance, improve consistency, and build your confidence off the tee. The best part? We take all the guesswork out of finding the best driver for your playstyle.
Visit your local PGA TOUR Superstore for a custom driver fitting or explore our full selection of drivers online today.