Cobra F-Max Complete Set versus Cobra XL Speed Golf Set

I was recently asked by a reader what the differences are between the Cobra F-Max complete set and the Cobra XL set. Both are excellent sets of clubs and great choices for beginner golfers.

If you’re in a hurry skip to the end for a simple summary of ‘buy if’ key points.

Surprisingly, there was limited information on the internet so I got in touch with Cobra to get the low down. If you’re deciding between these two sets then this article will give you the details and help you out.

Cobra F-Max versus XL Speed overview

The F-Max range is a new evolution of the XL Speed range. That F-Max family of products also contains the F-Max SuperLite and F-Max Airspeed within the current ranges.

From Cobra:

“The difference are the advances in technology over the last 5 years, making the clubs faster and more forgiving each year. The is a product of the breakthroughs in the manufacturing process, using different materials, centre of gravity revisions, shaft technology…the list goes on.”

Check out the complete Cobra F-Max complete set review

Cobra F-Max vs XL driver technology

From Cobra:

“The latest version of the F-Max driver is a whole 13 grams lighter than the Superlite, meaning swing speed, and therefore ball speed will increase.”

I can tell you that 13 grams is a dramatic saving in driver weight. So yes, the latest F-Max driver will allow you to generate more club head speed and hit your drives further.

Fairway woods

From Cobra:

“The Airspeed woods also have a carbon crown, meaning the CG can be placed lower and further back to improve forgiveness and accuracy.”

Again, this is a great development. carbon is stronger and lighter than metal alloys, allowing more mass to be placed low down and away from the club face. The result will be higher flying shots and less club twist if you miss the sweet spot.

Check out our best golf clubs for beginners article to see where these golf club sets place

F-Max vs Cobra XL irons

From Cobra:

“The irons have a deep undercut in the cavity which will help golfers launch it higher and longer than previous models…They also have progressive hosel lengths and progressive offset through the set which improves launch and accuracy in the long irons, mid irons and wedges.”

In recent years manufacturers have continued to tweak and refine cavity back design. The deeper undercut discussed above appears in many newer irons. The testing suggests this design further increases forgiveness and, in some cases, creates great face flex which results in higher ball speeds and longer iron shots.

I really like is the second development mention above. The progressive hosel lengths and offset solves a key problem with beginner golf clubs. In that, beginners want forgiveness and distance when hitting long irons, but still want control with the shorter irons.

The progressive design that has been developed in the F-Max irons will really help your mid and short irons feel more controlled when hitting shots inside 120-yards.

Cobra F-Max complete set vs Cobra XL complete set – The verdict

I stick by my opening statement, both are great options for beginner and high-handicappers looking for forgiving golf clubs that really will give you a lot of joy.

Buy the Cobra F-Max complete set if:

• You are keen to find a few extra yards of distance and a touch more control inside 120 yards.
• Your bad shot is a hook with your irons, the progressive offset with suit you better than the XL design.
• You are a high-handicapper and want a golf club set to grow with your game.

Buy the Cobra XL complete set if:

• You want a great golf set but wish to save a few pennies for more golfing ventures or golf lessons.
• You badly slice all of your irons, the Cobra XL offset design will aid this problem.

I hope that helps in deciding which to buy. If you’re still undecided click here to read more about Callaway Strata golf clubs and here to read our Wilson Profile SGI review.

Happy golfing – Will @ Golf Insider UK