R15 & AeroBurner drivers
Loft options - 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°, 14°
Adjustability - Two 15g weights can be placed in the heel or toe to reduce slices or hooks, moved centrally for more distance, or split for more forgiveness. The hosel allows loft to be moved up or down by 2°, with standard or upright positions.
Key technology - This 460cc head features a low and forward centre of gravity, with 75 per cent of the weight in the front of the head, to reduce spin and offer added distance. Inverted Cone Technology behind the face helps to expand the sweet spot.
Test Report – Michael Harris
While the low and forward CG position remains, the R15 launches noticeably higher than the brand’s SLDR model when set in the same loft. This is achieved without adding spin, so is a benefit to the vast majority of golfers. Forgiveness has also been improved, particularly when the weights are moved to the heel and toe. Moving the weights really alters the performance, again making much more of a difference. Styling is also much improved in both the white and black versions. The white head looks fantastic behind the ball and inspires confidence.
Loft options - 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°
Key technology - The 430cc R15 includes all of the technology featured in the 460cc model. The smaller head features a shape inspired by previously successful TaylorMade R drivers and, compared to the standard model, lowers spin.
The 430cc version of the TaylorMade R15 produced my longest drive of the day, and the consistency on offer was also very impressive. I would never have selected this model over the larger-headed version before a fitting and further testing, but it was clear that it was the best performer of the two. Don’t dismiss the smaller head as less forgiving, because it certainly wasn’t the case for me. Those who produce lots of spin will find it greatly reduced here compared to the majority of models. As with the standard version, the adjustability made significant differences to the performance on offer.
Loft options - 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°, 14° Adjustability - None
Key technology - The AeroBurner has been designed to be TaylorMade’s fastest and most aerodynamic driver. The key innovation is a new Speed Pocket that extends deeper into the club, increasing sweet-spot size. This results in higher ball speeds. It’s accompanied by a high-strength flexing clubface, while a fin behind the hosel reduces drag further. A TP version is available with extra aftermarket shaft options.
If the TaylorMade R15 offers understated visuals, then AeroBurner is very much the opposite, with in-your-face looks. The graphics and dimpled crown will split opinion, but behind the ball the familiar white head and black face combo frame the ball well. The longer, lighter shaft added 4mph to my swing speed, which translated into longer drives. However the extra length on the shaft cost me a little control. Unlike the R15, the non-adjustable AeroBurner won’t take a lot of dialling in to get the optimum performance. Custom fitting is preferable, but I wouldn’t say it’s as essential as other models.
TaylorMade R15 driver testing:
TaylorMade R15 driver - on-course testing:
TaylorMade AeroBurner driver - first-look video:
TaylorMade AeroBurner driver testing:
Comparison - TaylorMade R15 vs AeroBurner:
TaylorMade 2015 driver range verdict:
