TaylorMade Stealth 2 Driver Review
First Impressions
Released in 2023, the Stealth 2 is the second iteration in TaylorMade’s carbonwood era, following the original Stealth. From the moment you set eyes on it, the Stealth 2 impresses. It maintains TaylorMade’s classic pear shaped profile, striking a refined balance between forgiveness and a compact aesthetic. I particularly appreciated the glossy black crown contrasted by a matte black front strip, which aids alignment. The flashes of red carbon on the face and sole are bold but grow on you. Overall, it’s one of the most striking designs in TaylorMade’s lineup.
Design, Technology, and Performance
On the technical side, the Stealth 2 Core offers a refined sound and feel. While the original Stealth had a tinny note, likely a deliberate bridge from titanium the Stealth 2 delivers a soft, deep strike. Of all TaylorMade drivers I’ve tested, this offers the most plush, responsive feel. At its core, the Stealth 2 retains the 60X Carbon Twist Face, but it’s now lighter, stronger, and boasts a larger sweet spot thanks to more carbon in the chassis. The Inertia Generator, a 25g tungsten weight at the rear, stabilises the club, encouraging a strong launch. With a 460cc head, this is a mid spin driver, an ideal balance between distance and control. My TrackMan data reflected that: with an average swing speed of 116 mph, I saw carry distances just under 300 yards and efficiency numbers between 1.48 and 1.49. It’s a real all rounder, providing consistent flight even on toe or heel strikes, and spin averages around 2400 rpm, ideal for mid to high speeds.
Who Is It For?
The Stealth 2 Core is aimed predominantly at low to mid handicappers. While it’s not the absolute most forgiving driver, it offers a sweet spot that caters to players with moderate swing speeds or those who need a bit of extra help on off centre hits. The modern look will appeal to players who like the sleek black design with bold red accents. If you prefer a subtler, titanium faced driver, you may lean toward a Ping or Titleist. But for those who embrace the carbon era, it’s a fantastic option spanning from elite ball strikers down to about 18-20 handicappers. With multiple loft options (9°, 10.5°, and 12°), it’s versatile. And, since the Stealth 2 was released a few years ago, it’s now available on the used market for around £250, less than half the cost of the latest offerings. If you’re after a well rounded, carbon infused driver that balances speed, spin, and forgiveness, the Stealth 2 is a strong contender.