Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver Review

I. Is Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver worth it?

The Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver offers compelling features, making it an intriguing choice for mid-to-high handicap golfers. This new driver delivers powerful shots and consistent performance.

This club offers forgiveness with its precision unibody frame construction, which minimizes energy loss on off-center impacts, and its Tungsten Speed Cartridge increases ball speed on those less-than-perfect hits.

The Callaway Drivers, while packed with features, comes at a premium price, which may not be suitable for all budgets. Furthermore, its tendency to favor a leftward ball flight, promoting a slight draw bias, may not be ideal for all golfers, as swing preferences vary. 

Nonetheless, if you prefer a draw bias and are looking for consistency, then Callaway Rogue ST Max is worth your investment.

II. My Experience with Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver

Callaway Rogue has introduced a new lineup of models, including the Rogue ST Max, Rogue ST Max LS, Rogue ST Max D, and Rogue ST Max Triple Diamond LS.

My primary focus was on the Rogue ST Max, so I decided to put it to the test with my custom shaft, the Tour AD BB-6x.

From the very beginning, the driver showed its forgiving nature. Even when my shots carried a bit of extra spin, they managed to stay in play, which was a relief. 

When attempting a draw with the Rogue ST Max driver, I found it accommodating. Its design allowed me for a controlled draw with reliable distance and accuracy.

With the Rogue ST Max driver, I was able to execute both high and low shots. It delivered a high trajectory with the necessary launch angle and carry for clearing hazards and attacked greens while adapting effectively for low shots on fast-running fairways.

My Test Stats

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver’s performance, I conducted tests in a room equipped with a simulator and launch monitor. Here are the average test statistics:

Parameters	Test Stats
Ball Speed	169.1mph
Launch Angle	16.5 degrees
Back Spin	3037 rpm
Side Angle	1.1 degree L
Carry Distance	285 yds
Total Distance	304.5 yds

The Rogue ST Max Driver’s capability to achieve a ball speed of 169.1 mph was quite satisfactory. This ball speed translated into powerful shots off the tee, significantly enhancing the overall distance of each drive.

A launch angle of 16.5 degrees proved to be ideal. It delivered a trajectory that allowed the ball to ascend gracefully into the air while maintaining precise control.

With the 3037 rpm of backspin, the Rogue ST Max Driver ensured a level of precision. The backspin kept the ball on its intended path, ensuring that shots were both long and consistently on target.

The carry distance it provided reflected the driver’s capacity to cover substantial ground while maintaining a precise trajectory, and the total distance redefined my performance on the course.

III. Performance factors 

Let’s look in detail at the performance factors of the Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver.

1. Distance – 9/10

The Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver delivered a substantial increase in distance, providing consistently good strikes and a ball flight that exuded strength. 

The lower spin resulted in a slightly more penetrating ball flight, eliminating frustrating ballooning shots that tend to diminish overall distance.

The Rogue ST Max gave stability to my shots. As I stood on the tee with the Rogue ST Max Driver in hand, I got a dependable and stable performance while maintaining a competitive distance. 

2. Forgiveness – 10/10

The Callaway driver’s weight distribution and positioning significantly enhanced its forgiveness. Even with the challenge of achieving center-face contact, it remains a dependable choice off the tee, especially when the ball is struck with the toe or heel.

This driver possessed the capability to turn near-misses into nearly perfect shots, resulting in saved strokes on my scorecard.

3. Playability – 8 /10

The Rogue ST Max driver’s built-in draw bias effectively corrected my slice issues. Shots struck towards the heel of the club induced noticeable draw effects, helping to counter unwanted fades.

Furthermore, the driver offers a medium-high to high launch and flight avoiding the rough on the right side. 

However, the left bias of this driver was a little discouraging which affected my preferences and performance.

4. Looks – 8/10

The clubface is designed with simplicity in mind, avoiding any overly flashy elements. The graphics on the clubface are straightforward and uncomplicated, contributing to the club’s clean and understated appearance.

The head of the club is primarily black, with a touch of color provided by the Tungsten Speed Cartridge located at the rear. 

However, the design doesn’t have any particularly bold or eye-catching elements. It opts for a more subdued and refined appearance, which personally didn’t appeal to me that much.

5. Sound & Feel – 9/10 

The Rogue ST Max Driver delivers a unique and mellower baritone sound, setting it apart from others. I personally appreciate this, as I prefer a more subdued auditory experience during my swings.

In the central zone of the club head, the feel is solid and incredibly satisfying. It’s similar to sinking a critical putt or striking a clean iron shot. 

This sweet spot radiates stability, and the feedback is finely tuned. Impact with the Rogue ST Max in this zone feels substantial, powerful, and secure, instilling a sense of confidence with each swing.

IV. Features and Benefits

Let us have a look at the features and benefits offered by this driver.

1. Tungsten Speed Cartridge Structure

The Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver incorporates a Tungsten Speed Cartridge structure, strategically placing up to 26 grams of tungsten deep within the driver’s head. 

This design contributes to increased forgiveness by elevating the driver’s MOI, resulting in greater resistance to twisting. The practical outcome is that it helps produce straighter, more accurate shots, even on occasions when my swing isn’t perfect.

2. Jailbreak A.I Speed Frame

The ST Max Driver introduces the Jailbreak A.I. Speed Frame technology, which combines stability and speed to enhance its performance.

This technology guarantees stability in both horizontal and torsional directions, consequently improving control and accuracy in my shots.

Moreover, the construction, shaping, and positioning of the Jailbreak Speed Frame have been precisely optimized to ensure enhanced speed across the entire clubface. 

3. Flash Face SS22 

The Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver incorporates the innovative Flash Face SS22, which brings two advantages to the table.

First, it plays a pivotal role in significantly reducing spin, thereby enhancing shot control and increasing overall accuracy.

Additionally, the Flash Face SS22 employs the power of artificial intelligence AI to optimize launch, spin and ball speed. The outcome is easier ball launches and increased velocity, ultimately resulting in a substantial boost in distance.

4. Titanium Unibody Construction

The Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver’s titanium unibody construction is engineered for stability and a lowered center of gravity. This translates to enhanced control and a smoother swing for consistent performance.

Furthermore, the proprietary Triaxial Carbon crown and sole significantly reduce weight in specific areas, resulting in higher forgiveness and promoting a high launch with a slight draw bias. 

V. Alternatives

While the Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver certainly has its merits, it’s crucial to explore alternative choices tailored to your individual requirements. Here are some alternatives to look out for: 

1. Cobra LTDx Driver

The Cobra LTDx driver emerges as a dependable substitute for the Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver, making it an attractive option for mid-high handicappers. 

It boasts a sleek and appealing design, accompanied by features like an adjustable hosel and seamless integration with Arccos Sensors, all of which contribute to an enhanced playing experience.

2. Cleveland Launcher XL Driver

Another compelling alternative to the Callaway Rogue ST Max Driver is the Cleveland Launcher XL Driver. This driver is a considerable option for mid-high handicappers and senior golfers. 

Its features include forgiveness on off-center hits and the ability to deliver extra distance. The adjustable hosel allows for fine-tuning launch conditions, leading to an overall improved gameplay experience. 

My Take 

Callaway’s Rogue ST Max Driver offers enhanced distance and maximum shot shape correction with its Tungsten Speed Cartridge and Jailbreak A.I. Speed Frame. 

While the driver offers a neutral to fade bias, the left bias might not be suitable for every golfer. Nevertheless, its aesthetics and overall performance make it a compelling choice to explore.