Ping G400 Driver Review

The much anticipated wait for the new G400 product line is over.  We have heard whispers of driver power and straight distance from factory reps for weeks.  Now it is in our hands!

At first glance, the G400 driver displays a classic black matte finish with Ping’s patented “Dragon Fly Technology” protruding gently from the crown. Previous models had this same design to increase swing speeds through aerodynamics.  However, models like the G and G30 were less subtle and almost distracting.  The sleeker presentation of “Dragon Fly Technology” on the G400 ultimately makes the club head look more appealing.

The sole of the club also displays a much more dulled down appearance from previous models.  Black and gray make up most of the color scheme, with hints of brown sprinkled throughout.  Just like the previous model, a tungsten tour weight sits at the back of the club.  The SFT Tech (Straight Flight Technology) model positions the weight a little further towards the heel for a more draw biased driver.

The shaft of the club is Ping’s proprietary ALTA CB.  Not at all like the black and blue color scheme of the G model, the G400 comes with a dark rust brown shaft.  This is absolutely a different look for Ping compared to the last 5 years.  As shocking as the color tune up is, there is one aspect of this club that really shocked us.

At the end of most ping clubs we are accustomed to a stock Ping tour velvet grip.  Whether that be a ribbed grip, round grip or corded grip, it is always a Ping.  This year is different.  It comes stock with… I dare not say Golf Pride!  I guess there is a first time for everything right?

Let it be know right now, that the feel of the G400 is great.  When you demo this club, you can tell that Ping put a lot of time and effort researching the impact and sound of this club.  Ping was looking to produce a deeper, more muted sound, and they succeeded.  On ping.com one of their tour players describes it as “the satisfaction of pureing a persimmon driver with the modern technology of the G400.”

 

Bridgestone e6 Speed Golf Balls were used for this test

The Results

We tested the Ping G400 Driver with it’s predecessor the Ping G Driver using new Bridgestone e6 Speed Golf Balls.  The findings were minimal.  The G400 displayed 2mph increase in ball speed and .02 increase in smash factor.  All of the other main categories were relatively the same.

One notable difference was the sound and feel of the driver.  Bryan and Mitch both liked the feel of the G400 over the G.  Although our FlightScope Launch Monitor showed minimal increases in the numbers, the sound and feel of the driver has improved dramatically.  Hearing that, you may not jump at the notion of trading your G and spending up for a G400, but what if it meant more confidence off the tee.  If you like the look and feel of your driver more you are apt to feel more confident with it.  I would suggest trying it for yourself so you can hear the difference.