Earlier this year, Callaway debuted its 2024 metalwood lineup: the Paradym Ai Smoke, which featured four different models. The Ai Smoke MAX, Ai Smoke MAX D, Ai Smoke MAX Fast, and Ai Smoke Triple Diamond.

However, Callaway appears to have another ace up its sleeve, with a fifth model joining the lineup: the Ai Smoke Triple Diamond MAX (TD MAX).

 

 

 

 

 

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It is worth noting that the USGA Confirming List shows that there are potentially four different Ai Smoke Triple Diamond models, with each featuring slight variations on the placement of the sole weights.

But with respect to the newly released TD MAX, this new model looks to strike a balance between Callaway’s most forgiving models—which bear the “MAX” nomenclature—and its “better player’s” models—which are designated with the Triple Diamond (TD).

To explain in greater detail, Callaway’s MAX models are its most forgiving, high MOI offerings. But high MOI frequently means increased launch and spin (meaning there’s a potential sacrifice on distance). Additionally, MAX models feature a full, 460cc head design that promotes a more draw-biased ball flight to help protect against the big right miss.

Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max Driver: Full Review

Conversely, the Triple Diamond models are the lower-launching, less forgiving models. They are designed with a slightly smaller footprint (440cc) and a fade-biased ball flight (which can quickly turn into a slice for the golfer who struggles with face control).

The TD MAX looks to be the Goldilocks between the two. It features a full 460cc head design that should promote a neutral ball flight. And while the increased size comes with additional forgiveness, it also means a slight increase in spin (and, thus, a corresponding reduction in distance potential).

To help dial in ball flight, the TD MAX will—like the Triple Diamond—feature customizable front and rear weights. The default setting is 10 grams in the front and 4 in the rear (as opposed to the TD’s more extreme 14 gram/2 gram weights). Flipping them will reduce launch at the tradeoff of some forgiveness.

With the added forgiveness, Callaway believes that TD MAX will allow players to swing a little more freely (see “faster”) with the added forgiveness it offers on mishits. The added swing speed will, ideally, overcome whatever distance sacrifices the TD MAX makes (compared to the standard TD).

The TD MAX will be available in two lofts, 9 and 10.5 degrees, and comes with one stock shaft offering: the Project X Denali Blue, available in 60 grams in either Stiff or Extra-Stiff flexes. It will only be available in Right-Hand models and will retail at $599.99, with pre-sale starting on May 28 and retailing on June 7.

Cover Image via Golfweek