Introducing the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver
There’s no denying that mini drivers are currently enjoying a surge in popularity. TaylorMade was the pioneer in this space with their Original One mini driver, followed by the BRNR mini driver and even Titleist releasing the Prototype "2 Wood" as seen being tested by Max Homa. Now, Callaway has entered the scene with their Paradym Ai Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver. Released in limited quantities, this new offering is quickly grabbing everyones attention. But what sets it apart from the growing field of mini drivers?
Design and Construction
From a visual perspective, the Paradym Ai Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver is a scaled-down version of the Paradym Ai Smoke Driver. It features the same titanium construction that’s seen in the Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Fairway Wood. The Ti 340 designation reflects its 340cc size, which is notably larger than the 304cc BRNR mini driver. This makes it a substantial option in the mini driver category.
Initially conceived as a tour-only prototype, the Ti 340 Mini Driver was tested by professional golfers like Xander Schauffele and Christian Bezuidenhout at this year’s RBC Heritage. The primary purpose of this club is to offer a reliable option off the tee for hitting tight fairways. With many PGA Tour players exceeding 180 mph in driver ball speed, the mini driver provides a more accurate alternative to a three wood without sacrificing too much distance.
Performance and Technology
One potential concern with mini drivers is their playability from the fairway due to their larger/deeper head size. However, Callaway has addressed this with their advanced Ai Smart Face technology. This technology, which is a hallmark of the Paradym Ai Smoke range, uses data from thousands of golf shots to create multiple sweet spots, optimising launch and dispersion even on off-centre strikes.
The Ai Smart Face technology has been shown to enhance forgiveness, but what really sets the Ti 340 Mini Driver apart is its dual weight system. This driver features two interchangeable weight ports on the sole, one behind the face and the other towards the rear of the club. The 4g and 12g weights can be adjusted to fine tune ball flight. Placing the 12g weight towards the front reduces spin and lowers ball flight, while positioning it at the rear increases launch and spin.
Specifications and Availability
The Paradym Ai Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver is available in two lofts, 11.5° and 13.5°, and includes an adjustable hosel to modify loft and lie angles. With a playing length of 43.75 inches, it falls between typical fairway wood and driver lengths. Given the popularity of the BRNR mini driver, it’s likely to sell out quickly due to its limited production run.
With the Paradym Ai Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver now available to the public, it will be interesting to see if other brands follow suit. Already this year, we’ve seen glimpses of a Titleist 2 wood being tested by players like Max Homa and Cameron Young. Additionally, a PXG mini driver was added to the USGA conforming list a few months ago, indicating that the market for mini drivers is heating up.
Final Thoughts
The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver brings a blend of innovation and practicality to the mini driver market. Its larger 340cc head size offers a balance between the compactness needed for accuracy and the forgiveness required for effective distance. The integration of Ai Smart Face technology and an adjustable weight system ensures that this driver can be tailored to suit a wide range of playing styles and conditions.
For golfers looking to tighten their fairway accuracy without sacrificing too much distance, the Paradym Ai Smoke Ti 340 Mini Driver is a compelling option. With its advanced design and limited availability, it represents both a high-performance tool and depending on how many are made, even a collector’s item.