PING G440 Max Fairway Wood Review
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PING G440 Max Fairway Wood Review

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Written by Joe

Last Updated on April 2, 2025 by Matt
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Joe Miller tests the hottest fairway of the 2025 season. The Ping G440 Max fairway wood is a fantastic upgrade from the already impressive G430 Max. After extensively testing the 21-degree model, I can confidently say it's one of the easiest and most forgiving fairway woods I've ever hit, backed by impressive launch monitor data.

PING G440 Max fairway

PING G440 max fairway wood

Best for players who hook the ball

Buy new or used

Pros

  • Consistent spin, and distance from any lie on the golf course
  • Excellent stock fitted shafts for high launching, soft landing shots
  • Higher spin in my experience which leads to much more control of the distance

Cons

  • May not be as long as other woods if you want distance only

Why the G440 Max Stands Out

  • Hybrid-Like Design: The low-profile clubface resembles a hybrid more than a traditional fairway wood, making it incredibly easy to launch off the turf.
  • Signature Ping Sound: The high-pitched, satisfying crack off the face is unmistakable—everyone will know when you're hitting a Ping.

On-Course Performance with Launch Monitor Data

  • 18-Degree Versatility: Handles everything from towering shots over trees to low punch shots under branches.
    • Launch Angle: ~14°-16°
    • Ball Speed: ~145-155 mph
    • Spin Rate: ~3,000-3,500 rpm
    • Carry Distance: ~220-235 yards
  • 21-Degree Forgiveness: Easily the most reliable fairway wood I’ve ever hit—perfect for high handicappers looking for effortless launches.
    • Launch Angle: ~16°-18°
    • Ball Speed: ~140-150 mph
    • Spin Rate: ~3,500-4,200 rpm
    • Carry Distance: ~200-215 yards
  • Soft Landings: Even on mis-hits, shots achieve a towering ball flight, ensuring they land softly on greens with consistent spin.
PING G440 max fairway topline

The topline of the G400 Max fairway. The carbon blends into the crown and the single alignment dot is understated. 

Why High Handicappers and Beginners Will Love It

  • Dependable Off the Tee: Higher lofts deliver consistent baby draws and help keep the ball in play.
  • Great from All Lies: Reliable whether you're hitting from rough, fairway, or off the tee.
  • Confidence Booster: The ultra-forgiving face and easy launch simplify the game, making difficult shots feel routine.

Why Lower Handicappers Will Like It

  • Workability & Control: Despite its forgiving nature, the G440 Max allows better players to shape shots with ease.
  • Optimized Spin & Launch: Lower handicappers can take advantage of its balanced spin rates and launch angles for precise distance control.
  • Exceptional Off-the-Deck Playability: The streamlined head design makes it an excellent choice for aggressive fairway shots, maximizing distance while maintaining accuracy.
  • Strong Alternative to a Driver: The 18-degree model provides a penetrating ball flight, making it a reliable option off the tee on tight fairways.

Final Recommendation

If you're a high handicapper or beginner, I highly recommend the 18 or 21-degree Ping G440 Max. With launch monitor stats proving its forgiving pedigree, it's a confidence-boosting club that makes the game more enjoyable from anywhere on the course. For lower handicappers, its blend of workability, control, and strong distance performance makes it a versatile addition to any bag.

Like the look of the G440 MAX range? Check out my review of the G440 Irons and the G440 MAX Driver. 

Last Updated on April 2, 2025 by Matt