50 Words or Less
The TaylorMade SIM2 Max D driver is very forgiving with exceptional sound and feel. Strong draw bias should help turn slices into straight shots.
Introduction
Today we’re rounding out our coverage of TaylorMade’s 2021 drivers with the SIM2 Max D. This is the draw biased model meant to complement the players driver, the SIM2 [review HERE], and the forgiving SIM2 Max [review HERE]. Can this third version fill the big shoes of its two brothers? Let’s find out.
Looks
TaylorMade states that the SIM2 Max D driver has an “oversized” face compared to the “Large” faces of the SIM2 and SIM2 Max. Like the other aesthetic differences between the three models, it’s not a night and day change, but it’s noticeable if you look. In addition to the face size, the SIM2 Max D sits slightly more closed, has the alignment aid closer to the heel, and is more symmetrical in shape than the other two.
All that said, the SIM2 Max D driver has a lot in common with the other SIM2 drivers. The crown is primarily black carbon fiber with a thin white band at the leading edge and some light graphics around the back. On the sole, you get another eyeful of carbon fiber plus the SIM2 branding.
Sound & Feel
When I tested the SIM2 driver, I loved the sound and feel. Later, I tested the SIM2 Max and noted how impressed I was that TaylorMade could put that same combination into a more forgiving head. My expectations for the SIM2 Max D driver were high, and it met them.
Contact feels extremely solid and powerful with the SIM2 Max D, just as with the other two SIM2 drivers. The sound is that same mid-pitch “crack.” The one difference is that the SIM2 Max D head feels a little more stable and the feedback is turned down just a hair.
Performance
Those familiar with TaylorMade nomenclature will easily discern that the SIM2 Max D driver is their draw biased model. In addition, TaylorMade says it’s the highest launching of the three SIM2 drivers and the most forgiving.
The title feature – the draw bias – of the SIM2 Max D is what jumped out first in my testing. With “normal” swings, this driver was producing pronounced draws. If I let the face close a bit, the ball screamed left. It took some effort to hit a straight shot. My most exaggerated swing was required to get the ball to cut. If you want a driver that will help you fight the slice, this one should be on your must try list.
In addition to being strongly draw biased, the SIM2 Max D is high launching, fairly high spinning, and very forgiving. The high launch is key to getting good distance on those draws. A right-to-left curve won’t do much good for you if it’s hit on a knee high trajectory. I found that this driver produced very impressive ball speed and did an excellent job retaining speed and accuracy on mishits.
Conclusion
If you want more help turning over your tee shots, the TaylorMade SIM2 Max D driver is a strong choice. Work with your fitter to dial in the right loft and shaft, and you’ll be hitting high draws that will be the envy of your foursome.
Visit TaylorMade Golf HERE
TaylorMade SIM2 Max D Driver Price & Specs
Matt Saternus
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I’ve been researching this new line of TaylorMade drivers–SIM2, SIM2 Max, and SIM2 Max D. I really like what I’m reading…every review seems to be very positive; everyone consistently talks highly about the construction and performance. However, one point appears to be up for debate. Nearly all reviews are stating that there is very little difference between the SIM2 and the SIM2 Max. So, is the only difference my personal preference? I’m a 16-handicap/index…with a swing speed of the low 90’s.
So, what should be the determining factor for deciding which to buy?
Jamie,
Getting fit. There are noticeable differences in launch, spin, and forgiveness, and a fitting will show you which model will produce better results for your swing.
Best,
Matt
Jamie,
I am a 16 handicap also and use to have a terrible slice to the right so I researched “best driver for seniors” and “best drivers for slow swing speeds” the Taylormade SIM max D was 2nd on the list so i bought one. I played Saturday and hit every fairway but one and on 5 it was the longest drive I’ve ever hit on those holes. The shots were long and straight and i didn’t change my swing one bit. Increddibly satisfied with the SIMMAX D. After trying 7 drivers I have finally found the one for me. my drives are no longer a part of my game I need to constantly work of refining thanks to this club. Now I need a new putter LOL
Do you feel that the Sim2 max d was longer and or more left than the sim max d?
I have a full review of the SIM Max D here: https://pluggedingolf.com/taylormade-sim-max-d-driver-review/
It’s been a while since I hit either, so I’m hesitant to offer a comparison of the relative draw bias. In terms of distance, they’re comparable, barring something unusual in the fit.
-Matt
I am a 12.5 handicapper and used to have a sim 1 driver set on slight draw which was stolen I now need to replace and I am considering the sim 2 max and sim 2 max D Which do you think would suit best
Philip,
My advice is always to get fit. Failing that, I would replace the SIM with the most similar driver unless you really want more draw bias.
-Matt
I’m 79 years .It’s the best driver I ever hit barr none. Just aim it down the rt side of the fairway either straight or slight dràw. What à weapon.Àlways in play
I agree totally with Paul Barrett. I am 76 years old, 14HC and I have have always had issues with slicing with the driver. Without any practice on the range, I played my first round with the Sim Max D.
Thirteen tee shots with the Sim and all in play and not one fade or slice. The more I used it I realized that I could aim right of centre of the fairway and finish in the middle. I don’t find the driver to have much offset and clearly it’s the weighting system that produces the squaring up of the face at contact. Brilliant!