Callaway Epic Sub Zero Driver

Loft Options & Stock Shafts

Technology

Tour Driver

The 2017 Epic Sub Zero was Callaway's answer for players who create too much spin off the tee and pay for it in yards. At 440cc it sits smaller than the standard Epic, and that compact footprint is the point. Better players tend to want a head that looks workable at address rather than one that fills the whole tee box, and this one has that tighter, more controlled profile.

What made this driver matter was Jailbreak. Two titanium bars run vertically behind the face, connecting the crown and sole so they stiffen up and let the face take more of the impact load. More energy goes into the ball, less gets lost flexing the body. Pair that with the Sub Zero's forward center of gravity and low-spin build, and you get a driver that launches on a flatter, more penetrating trajectory.

This is a low-spin head for a specific kind of golfer. If your swing already produces plenty of spin and a ballooning ball flight, it can hand you back real distance. If you're a slower swinger who needs help getting the ball up, this is the wrong tool, and it will let you know.

• You spin the driver too much and lose distance to a ball flight that climbs and stalls.
• Your swing speed is on the higher side and you can afford to give up a little launch for a flatter, longer flight.
• You prefer a smaller 440cc head that looks controlled behind the ball instead of an oversized shape.
• You want tour-level low spin and understand this head asks you to bring your own speed and launch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Epic Sub Zero too low-spin for the average golfer?

For a lot of mid-to-high handicap players, yes. This head is tuned to cut spin, which helps golfers who already produce too much of it. If your issue is getting the ball airborne or you swing at moderate speed, a standard Epic or a more forgiving driver will give you a better result. The Sub Zero rewards speed and punishes a lack of it.

What is Jailbreak technology and does it actually do anything?

Jailbreak is a pair of titanium bars behind the face that tie the crown and sole together. By stiffening the body, they let the face flex more efficiently at impact, so more energy transfers to the ball. It was the headline feature of the 2017 Epic line and it does contribute to the ball speed this head produces.

Why is the head only 440cc instead of the usual 460cc?

The smaller size is aimed at better players who want a more compact, workable look at address and a CG position that favors low spin. The reduced volume moves mass where Callaway wanted it and gives the driver a tighter profile. It trades a bit of the confidence of a full 460cc head for control.

How does the Sub Zero compare to the standard 2017 Epic?

The standard Epic is larger, launches higher, and spins more, which makes it the friendlier option for most golfers. The Sub Zero is the smaller, lower-spinning, more player-focused version. If you need forgiveness and help with launch, go standard. If you fight high spin and have the speed to support a flat flight, the Sub Zero fits.

Is a 2017 Epic Sub Zero still worth buying used today?

It can be a strong value on the used market for the right player. The Jailbreak-driven ball speed holds up well, and a low-spin head like this ages better than most because the fitting logic hasn't changed. Just make sure the loft and shaft match your swing, since this head gives back nothing to a golfer it doesn't suit.

Alternatives to the Callaway Epic Sub Zero

Other tour driver models from different brands, closest to its model year.