Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Driver Review – Is it Good & Forgiving for High Handicappers?

“A new year brings a new look and updated tech to the wildly popular Paradym series of drivers.”

It’s hard to think of ways that Callaway could have improved the design of last year’s Paradym drivers; but one could guess that any possible improvement could stem from the rapid advancement in AI technology.

The new Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke drivers benefit from millions of simulated golf swings, impacts and club head speeds to deliver extremely forgiving results. It may seem like hyperbole but in 2024, it looks like the entire face of your new Callaway driver is going to be the sweet spot.

We were fortunate enough to get an early look at the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max which is the specific driver we received for this round of testing. And we should be getting more Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke drivers in soon so be sure to check back for more reviews. For now though, let’s look at what Callaway is offering in the new Paradym line.

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Driver Family

“Callaway has upped their game and are offering 4 unique Paradym Ai Smoke models.”

We tested the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max and covered it in this review so let’s take a brief look at the other three models:

Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D

As you can imagine, the “D” refers to internal draw bias. Unlike the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke, the “D” version has a fixed rear weight and a more elongated head shape but still maintains a generous 460cc volume.

Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max Fast

The only new Paradym to feature a bonded hosel design which reduces overall weight. It also has internal draw bias but will only be available in 10.5 and 12 degree loft models.

Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond

With 450cc head volume and tour-preferred head shape, the Triple Diamond will appeal to more skillful strikers. It features interchangeable front (2g) and back (14g) weights.

Is it Good for High Handicappers?

“The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max features an updated AI design that makes the whole face viable. It comes in 9, 10.5 and 12 degree loft versions.”

Essentially, you are looking at one of the most advanced variable face thickness designs when you’re looking at the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max. During testing, I found the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max to be extremely forgiving on low, high, left or right misses.

It has a modern head shape which is more rounded so you get a solid feel on contact. But if you need to adjust your shot shape, a rear sliding weight can be positioned in the neutral, draw or fade positions.

This is a great Paradym Smoke driver for high handicappers to start their fitting with because there are so many CG and shot-shaping options. In fact, it’s the only Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke driver to feature a sliding weight system.

Spin was surprisingly low for a 460cc volume head (in the 24-2500 RPM range); but what I really loved was the ball speed. It stayed consistent across the face which is a real confidence-booster if you struggle off the tee.

Is it Forgiving?

“An extremely responsive face architecture coupled with a sliding weight make it extremely forgiving.”

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max also features a 360° carbon fiber chassis and a new internal titanium bracing structure which adds stability to off-center shots without adding extra weight.

I can’t imagine how much lighter the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max Fast is going to feel because the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max feels rapid on the downswing. And while you still need to exercise caution with your swing path, this driver delivers excellent ball speed and distance on errant strikes.

Difference Between Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max and Ai Smoke Max D Driver

“The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D features internal draw bias weighting.”

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D will also not come with a sliding rear weight. Instead, it will have a fixed 5g weight in the back. So you lose some adjustability and versatility with the “D” model which may make it more suitable if you’re specifically  dealing with a slice. The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D will also have a more elongated head shape.

Available Shafts

• MCA Tensei AV Series Blue 55 Graphite
• MCA Tensei AV Series Blue 65 Graphite
• Project X Cypher 2.0 40 Graphite

Is the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max Worth it?

“It’s absolutely worth it if you want more distance and confidence off the tee.”

And what high handicapper doesn’t want that. This driver was a blast to test and will be like a PED for high handicappers who are serious about improving.

Every golfer should be happy with the performance, especially on off center shots, the distance is better and it looks much cleaner than the 2023 Paradym.

If you are a lower handicapper, it should come as no surprise to you that the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond will likely work better with your swing speed and your preferred launch window.

But if you are an avid golfer and have the dough to spend on a brand new driver, you will likely find the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max to be worth every penny.