$299, graphite
nicklausgolf.com

It's for: All skill levels

Clay Long, Chief designer:
"We developed the ML3
with the idea of making a more pleasing shape in an
elongated, high-MOI envelope. The new dimensions
(not as wide as the FastBack driver) allow me to
deepen the face and increase the hitting area. I trim
weight out of the face in the heel and toe corners, making it a
three-level face design (ML3). Using a more symmetrical shape
makes it more difficult to locate CG correctly, but the savings in
the face and head width give me just enough to do the job."

How it works: Varying the face thickness is one proven way to
get faster ball speeds on misses. The high heel and toe areas
are thinner than in the previous model while the center
portion remains thickest. (This is done to "slow down"
ball speed on center hits and keep it within USGA governed
limits.) Redistributing mass also
lowers the center of gravity,
decreases spin, boosts
launch conditions
and creates a
stable head
that delivers
reliable
distance.