Hybrid · 2020
TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue
The CaddyIndex™ breakdown: our rating across all six performance dimensions, researched from published expert reviews, online sentiment and our own weighting algorithm.
By the CaddyCompare editorial team · updated 24 May 2026
Performance index
Six researched ratings, lower (blue) through to elite (gold).
Where it wins
- Feel82
- Looks82
- Sound80
Watch
Rated highest for feel and looks; its softest dimension is workability.
You're a 0-22 HCP at 85-115mph who wants the class-leading 2020 hybrid distance (226yd avg carry) + tour-validated better-player profile (McIlroy used it) + Twist Face/Speed Pocket/V Steel tech — comfortable with a 2020-vintage model now heavily depreciated.
You want current-generation TaylorMade tech, you need maximum GI forgiveness from a wider footprint (Max OS variant), or you want a wider loft ladder for set composition.
Pros
- Longest hybrid of 2020 — 226yd average carry per industry testing
- Used by Rory McIlroy early in the 2019-2020 season — tour-validated performance
- Consistently strong ball speeds of at least 130mph on well-struck shots + better-player crack with slightly firmer feel — refined acoustic and tactile signature
- V Steel sole (first time in a TaylorMade hybrid) + Twist Face + Thru-Slot Speed Pocket + C300 steel face
Cons
- Now 5 years old (2020 release) — superseded by SIM2 Max, Stealth, Qi10, Qi35, Qi4D generations
- Mid-width head — not as forgiving as Max OS sibling for sprayers
- No movable weight system — adjustability limited to ±2° loft sleeve
- Standard 4-loft ladder (19°/22°/25°/28°) — narrower than later 5-6-loft TM hybrid families
By dimension
Forgiveness
StrongTwist Face helps typical mishits produce straighter, more forgiving results. Speed Pocket technologies round off the SIM Max Rescue. Tight dispersion provided confidence hitting this into 200+ yard par 3s or into greens surrounded by trouble. Mid-width head shape sits really square at address for confidence. Above-average forgiveness — Twist Face + Speed Pocket + tight-dispersion testing results in mid-width better-player profile.
Distance
StrongSIM Max was the longest hybrid of 2020 with an average carry of 226 yards. Consistently strong ball speeds of at least 130mph on well-struck shots. Strong ball flight which was a good height without becoming floaty. High-strength C300 steel face helps boost ball speeds. Top-tier distance — class-leading 2020 carry distance with strong ball speed and controlled trajectory.
Workability
SolidMid-width head shape — not Max GI, more workable profile. Rounded the toe and adjusted the face angle to give SIM Max Rescue a more confidence-inspiring shape for all levels of golfers. Better-player crack with firmer feel; Rory McIlroy comparison to hitting a 7-iron. Above-average workability — mid-width better-player profile + tour validation support modest shape control vs full GI alternatives.
Feel
ExcellentThe feel and sound was not quite as loud/tingy as expected from TaylorMade's flagship hybrid — rather it was more of a better-player crack with a slightly firmer feel. It almost reminded reviewers of a long iron in terms of feedback off the face. Rory McIlroy: It's like hitting a 7-iron. Above-average feel — better-player crack + firmer feel + iron-like feedback through the hands; tour validation.
Sound
StrongNot quite as loud/tingy as expected from TaylorMade's flagship hybrid — rather it was more of a better-player crack. TaylorMade Rescue acoustic tradition continues. Above-average sound — refined better-player crack (not loud/tingy) — preferred to more aggressive flagship acoustics.
Looks at address
ExcellentLooks exceptionally clean, with contrast between the white topline portion of the club and the carbon fiber look of the crown. Mid-width head shape sits really square at address. Chalk and charcoal cosmetics give a really friendly and forgiving look. Above-average address — distinctive white-topline/carbon-crown contrast + mid-width square shape + chalk/charcoal cosmetics.
Sources
Dig into the independent expert reviews and lab tests that feed into how every club here is rated. Each one is worth reading in full — they carry the launch-monitor data, hands-on testing and detailed photography that paint the complete picture before you buy.
- Read the full review at TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue Hybrid Review - Today's Golfer
- Read the full review at TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue Review - Golfalot
- Read the full review at TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue Hybrid Review - Plugged In Golf
We paraphrase and synthesise these sources; we don't republish them. Publishers can read how we use reviews or request a change.
More Hybrid ratings
Frequently asked questions
Who is the TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue best for?
You're a 0-22 HCP at 85-115mph who wants the class-leading 2020 hybrid distance (226yd avg carry) + tour-validated better-player profile (McIlroy used it) + Twist Face/Speed Pocket/V Steel tech — comfortable with a 2020-vintage model now heavily depreciated.
Who should avoid the TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue?
You want current-generation TaylorMade tech, you need maximum GI forgiveness from a wider footprint (Max OS variant), or you want a wider loft ladder for set composition.
What handicap is the TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue suitable for?
The TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue suits a broad range of abilities, from high-handicap beginners through to scratch and tour players.
What is the TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue best at?
In our research the TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue rates highest for distance and forgiveness, and is softest on workability.
Does the TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue have a shot bias?
The TaylorMade SIM Max Rescue is broadly neutral in shot shape (no built-in draw or fade bias), with a mid-high launch and mid spin.