Will the FW32 driver become as well-known as those other, different drivers? UK-based Williams is hoping its know-how in aerodynamic constructions gets noticed as it takes the Williams Sports golf brand global. (The FW32 was recently used to win the long drive championship in Japan.)
Using research by the Williams F1 team into high-speed aerodynamics, the Williams FW32 driver incorporates what the company calls the Trip, Winglets, and the Diffuser. The small "trip" on the crown, just behind the face, minimizes how much of the crown is affected by airflow by redirecting that airflow.
The "winglets," visible on either side of the driver head in the left image above, stabilize airflow around the heel and toe of the driver. The "diffuser," the blue section on the rear of the sole, helps control airflow across the sole during the swing.
It looks (and sounds) pretty "racy," so to speak. And the effect, Williams Sports says, is less drag, better airflow, faster swing speeds.
The FW32 driver comes in lofts of 8, 9, 10 and 11 degrees, all at 45.5 inches in length. Shafts are by Fujikura and range from 48 to 68 grams. The grip is a dual-compound, a rubber cord combo for the upper hand and a softer rubber for the lower hand. MSRP is $499. williams-sports.com
