3balls Golf
The TaylorMade SLDR has been one of the most successful drivers over the last several years — so much so that TaylorMade took their original version and spun off several models this year. If you’re shopping for TaylorMade SLDR drivers, but can’t figure out the difference between the SLDR S and the SLDR Mini, you’ve come to the right place! Here are the basic differences:
SLDR 460
This is the original SLDR. Now rebranded as the SLDR 460 driver, it features the same big 460cc clubhead, sliding 20 gram weight, adjustable loft and low-forward center of gravity you’ve heard so much about. SLDR 460’s come in base lofts of 8, 9.5, 10.5 and 12 degrees, with an overall length of 45.5 inches for men and 44.5 for women.
SLDR 430
The smaller SLDR 430 is one of the options now available geared towards the pro and semi-professional players. With a head volume of only 430cc, it’s easier to shape shots with this driver, but it’s also much less forgiving than the 460. The loft selection is more narrow, too — only 9, 10.5 and 12 degree models are available. The standard men’s length is 45.5 inches, but the tour models are a shorter 45.25 inches.
SLDR S
Just in case you want less slide to your SLDR, TaylorMade developed the SLDR S driver, a no-frills version of this driver. The sliding weight is still in place, but the adjustable hosel is gone for the SLDR S. It has the 460cc head and length of the original, in fixed lofts of 10, 12, 14 and 16 degrees.
SLDR TP
The Tour Preferred SLDRs are geared toward professional play, but with the 460cc clubhead of the original SLDR. They have all the bells and whistles of other SLDR’s, but appear in lofts of 9.5, 10.5 and 12 degrees, with a shorter shaft length for better control. Total length on these drivers is 45.25 inches with a D4 swing weight. With the big head, heavy weight and short shaft, it’s almost like hitting your ball off the tee with a sledgehammer.
SLDR White
SLDR Whites are the same as their individual namesakes when it comes to specs, but they feature bright white crowns with black alignment aids. It may seem like a small thing, but white clubheads have been big winners in the putter department, white drivers are making a comeback (at least with TaylorMade).
SLDR Mini
True to it’s name, the SLDR Mini is a tiny, 260cc version of the SLDR, but without all the sliding weights and adjustable lofts. It’s meant to bridge the gap between the 460cc head of the SLDR and the 160cc head of a SLDR 3 Wood. They’re also shorter than a standard driver, at only 43.5 inches. If you prefer to tee up with your 3 Wood, you may find the SLDR Mini is exactly what you need.
When it feels like your game is still missing something, you may discover that last puzzle piece is a SLDR driver. Take a look at our huge selection of golf clubs, including the SLDR family, at 3balls.com. We’ve got amazing prices on new, used and open box drivers every day.
