TaylorMade Qi4D Tour Fairway Wood Review: A Deep Dive into Performance and Design
The release of the TaylorMade Qi4D family of fairway woods has generated significant buzz in the golfing community, particularly regarding the Tour model. Designed for serious golfers, this club stands out for its compact design and impressive technology. Let’s explore what makes the TaylorMade Qi4D Tour fairway wood a potential game-changer.
Design and Aesthetics
At first glance, the TaylorMade Qi4D Tour fairway wood boasts a sophisticated and sleek design. This model features a small, 175cc head that gives an intimidating yet professional look. The overall aesthetics convey quality, highlighted by clean lines and a premium sole design that elevates it above its counterparts in the Qi4D lineup.
The TaylorMade Qi4D Tour Fairway Wood behind the ball (Image credit: Future)
Adjustability Features
One of the standout features of the Qi4D Tour model is its remarkable adjustability. The club includes three interchangeable weight ports — one weighing 15g and two at 4g — which allow golfers to customize the center of gravity (CG) to suit their playing style. Coupled with a 4° loft sleeve, this fairway wood provides unparalleled adjustability, enabling users to tailor their club for various shot shapes, including fades, low spins, or anti-slice settings.
Performance Insights
Testing the TaylorMade Qi4D Tour on a Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor revealed some intriguing performance metrics. Although the club’s smaller head was expected to generate faster speeds due to its reduced size, my findings indicated a slight drop in performance compared to the core Qi4D model.
| Metric | Qi4D Tour | Core Qi4D |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Speed | 149 mph | 155 mph |
| Carry Distance | -7 yards | Standard |
Despite the slower ball speed and subsequent loss of carry distance, this model excels in terms of workability. Golfers who prioritize shot shaping will find it particularly rewarding, as it allows for different trajectories and precise ball movement.
On-Course Experience
While launch numbers provided valuable insights into the club’s speed and distance, the real test came on the golf course. Here, the Qi4D Tour model truly shines. Its compact design lends itself to a high degree of maneuverability, allowing players to hit various shots with ease.
Golfers who appreciate shot-making and artistry will find this club refreshing, as it revives a creative approach to the game that some modern clubs seem to overlook.
Conclusion: Who Should Consider the Qi4D Tour?
The TaylorMade Qi4D Tour fairway wood is tailored for experienced golfers seeking maximum control and the ability to manipulate ball flight. While it may not outperform the core model in terms of raw distance or forgiveness, its artistry and shot-making capabilities make it worth considering.
If you’re a traditionalist in your shot selection or someone looking for a club that provides flexibility and precision, the Qi4D Tour may be the perfect addition to your bag.
For golfers searching for a well-crafted, adjustable fairway wood that helps elevate shot-making skills, the TaylorMade Qi4D Tour could soon become a staple in many serious players’ arsenals.
