In the metalwood language of the title, the “1” model takes on the identity of the lightweight option. With the GT1 freeway wood, this is still the case. Well, mostly. As with the previous TSR line, the main release included the flagship “2” and “3” models with the “1” coming a little later. Same here. So if you need a quick overview of the Titleist GT2 and GT3 wood siblings, we have it for you. If you’re well versed, the Cliff Notes version is that the GT1 carries the key material and technological attributes of other GT freeway woods.
Moving forward … The inherent challenge of a lightweight, dedicated design is maximizing intent while not creating an overly narrow target audience. In the past, Titleist would admit that it probably didn’t position the GT1 as widely as it would have liked.
What’s new this time? Good question.
GT1 title design
To achieve a lighter overall assembled weight, the Titleist GT1 fairway uses lighter components (shaft, grip, head weight). From there, the math is pretty simple. For players who need technological assistance to get the ball in the air, lighter = faster.
For a certain percentage of players, if you can swing the club faster, it will generate more speed, spin and overall height. The Titleist GT1’s freeway tagline is “High, Far, Forgiving.” All of this makes sense, but here’s the twist. This time around, the street GT1 (and the GT1 driver and hybrid for that matter) are also available in a standard weight build. What this means is that golfers who want a dedicated “high release” model aren’t tied to an ultra-lightweight design. This is a win.
Appropriate considerations
Many golfers can benefit from taller fairway woods. The problem is, they may not know it. In fact, how many golfers do you know who hit their woods too high? As you ponder this question, you’ll notice that the GT1 fairway has two movable weights (front and back or, as Titleist likes to call them, front and rear).
The heavier weight (11 grams) in the aft (back) position produces the deepest CG location and maximum MOI. Reversing the weights reduces spin and trajectory while slightly increasing ball speed. Titleist’s consumer testing determined that 60 percent of golfers preferred weight in the back, 40 percent preferred it in the forward position. In addition, all models feature the SureFit Hosel Adapter to further customize the loft and proper lie.
Final thoughts
I’m a ball shooter so the GT1 probably isn’t for me. That said, I can’t rule it out, mainly because it’s so easy to get off track. The shallow face profile and slightly longer heel track fit well with the rest of the GT line, and a modified sole allows the leading edge to sit closer to the ground, similar to the GT3. All this means that even the most fastidious gamer will have a hard time finding anything aesthetically pleasing.
At times, Titleist has fought the idea that its clubs are only for top players. I’d say that’s a fair but incomplete assessment of the brand’s approach. With the continued development of the GT1, Titleist does not have any significant gaps in its driver, fairway wood or hybrid lines. There are many reasons to choose one brand over another, but it’s clear that Titliest wants to reach dedicated players at various skill levels.
Specifications, price, availability
The Titleist GT1 fairway is available in 15, 18, 21 and 24 degrees. Featured shafts include Fujikura Air Speeder Next Gen – 40g (R, S, X), 35g (R3 for Women, Jr./Youth), Project X Denali Red – 50g (5.0, 5.5, 6.0) and Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Blue – 55 g (R, S).
Retail price is $399. Pre-sale starts February 2nd with full availability starting February 21st.
For more information, visit Titleist.com.
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