Irons

Key Feature: The long irons are replaced with Boxer hybrids, the middle with specially designed hybrids and the short irons are traditional cavity-backs.
What We Like: Each club has a high MOI and deep CG, which means straighter shots.
Who It’s For: Players who want game improvement from every club in the bag.
Clubhead: Stainless Steel ” Clubface: Maraging Steel ” Design: Hybrid iron set Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 2-6 (Boxer hybrid), 6-8 (Hybrid), PW, SW, AW, LW ” Shafts: Grafalloy ProLaunch Platinum graphite (S, R); True Temper Performance Lite steel (S, R)
adamsgolf.com | $599 and up

Key Feature: The smooth, forged feel of the new J36 CBs is complemented with a
tapered sole design, trailing edge relief and a progressive cavity that maximizes performance.
What We Like: The Rifle Project X steel shafts feel as if they were made for these irons. Also, if players want to mix in the new J36 Blades or J36 Pocket cavity irons, it’s a cinch.
Who It’s For: Mid- to low-handicappers who want forgiveness with shotmaking options.
Clubhead: Mild carbon steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Forged cavity back ” Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 3-PW ” Shafts: Rifle Project X steel (X, S, R)
bridgestonegolf.com | $799

Key Feature: The Pocket Cavity design cuts mass out from behind the clubface for a higher MOI and added forgiveness.
What We Like: Designed to complement the J36 Blade/Cavity Back or to stand alone as a complete set, the J36 Pocket Cavity is a true work of art.
Who It’s For: Better players who want game-improvement irons that, well, look nothing like game-improvement irons.
Clubhead: Mild carbon steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Forged pocket cavity-back ” Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 3-PW ” Shafts: Rifle Project X steel (X, S, R)
bridgestonegolf.com | $799

Key Features: The hybrid-like long and mid irons have a wide sole and plenty of offset and forgiveness, while the shorter irons are considered to have a more traditional shape.
What We Like: The “hybridy” irons are so easy to hit, you might wish they had gone with them for the whole set.
Who It’s For: High-handicappers who struggle to make solid contact with their long irons.
Clubhead: Stainless Steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Hybrid iron set ” Custom Options: Yes Clubs: 3-PW, SW Shafts: Grafalloy ProLaunch Platinum graphite (S, R); True Temper Performance Lite steel (S, R)
callawaygolf.com | $799

Key Feature: An upgraded version of the original Fusion Irons, the FT Irons have a shape that better players will like.
What We Like: These are pricey clubs, but if you’re willing to pay, you’ll see that these are the most advanced Callaway irons to date.
Who It’s For: Mid- to low-handicappers who want the premium performance that the original Fusion Irons were known for.
Clubhead: Tunite Cradle, TPU Insert ” Clubface: Titanium ” Design: Multi-material cavity-back Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 2-LW ” Shafts: Nippon 1110 Pro steel (S, R); Callaway Golf FT graphite (S, R)
callawaygolf.com | $1,299

Key Feature: The Gelback insert is located low and behind the clubface for enhanced feel.
What We Like: Having two clubheads to choose from is a bonus, and so are its three custom-fit options.
Who It’s For: Depends! If you want a mid-sized iron with moderate offset, try the CG Gold. Better players will love the CG Red irons.
Clubhead: Stainless Steel, Gelback Insert Clubface: Stainless Steel ” Design: Multi-material cavity-back ” Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 2-SW ” Shafts: Tour Temper Action Lite steel (S, R); CG Gold graphite (S, R, A); Custom shafts available
clevelandgolf.com
Red
Gold | $699

Aside from the use of multiple materials, there really hasn’t been many major technical enhancements to irons in years. Thus, manufacturers have been taking a fresh approach to the lineup you select for your bag, which is why mix-and-match sets are starting to blossom. Many companies are getting rid of the long irons and offering hybrids as adequate iron replacements. Other companies, such as Bridgestone, aren’t abandoning the eight-iron configuration, but are presenting more choices within that arrangement. The company’s new J36 irons are offered in three clubhead types—cavity-back, pocket cavity and blade—that can be mixed in any way you can dream up. The clubs not only all look alike from the address view, but they share common subtleties, as well, such as cosmetics, and progressive top line and sole thickness. “It’s a very smooth transition from one club to the next,” says Danny Le, Bridgestone Golf’s marketing manager. “We designed them to be three sets blended together. The concept here is forgiving long irons, stable mid-irons and controlling short irons. We built the set around that concept. When you transition from the pocket to the cavity to the blade, it’s all the same graphics. So in your bag or at address, the head shapes all look like one another.” Performance and feel also blend seamlessly together—no matter how you divide these types of iron sets. You’ll also find the clubhead size progression to be gentle and
the offset to typically get less as you get more toward the blades. Several other companies like Titleist, PING and Mizuno also manufacture iron sets that are designed to be mixed, making it that much easier to find the ideal blend. —Scott Kramer

Key Feature: Every club in the HiBORE set features an Inverted Crown Design and Full Hollow Construction, resulting in an iron with a deep and low CG. They’re mega-forgiving.
What We Like: The progressive sole width and bulge and roll design on the longer clubs make this set surprisingly versatile.
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers looking for some extreme forgiveness.
Clubhead: Stainless Steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Hollow-body ” Custom Options: Yes Clubs: 3-PW ” Shafts: HiBORE steel (S, R, A); HiBORE Silver by Graphite Design graphite (S, R, A); Custom shafts available
clevelandgolf.com | $599

Key Feature: Multi-material design featuring three-piece polymer topline and urethane sole insert. Optimized weighting provides low CG and high MOI for extreme forgiveness.
What We Like: Cobra designers pushing the envelope with innovative urethane insert, polymer topline and low profile/wide sole design.
Who It’s For: Players who want a high-tech iron that looks good and is easy to hit.
Clubhead: Stainless steel, Polymer, Urethane Clubface: Stainless steel ” Design: Multi-material cavity-back ” Custom Options: Yes _â” Clubs: 3-LW ” Shafts: Nippon Pro 900 XH steel (90g), Cobra/Graphite Design YS graphite (55g)
cobragolf.com | $960 graphite

Key Feature: The company’s Face-Forward design, which eliminates shanked shots by putting the face in front of the hosel.
What We Like: These irons are creative, and at address they don’t look all that different than a standard set of irons (especially as they get longer). They’re also effective at preventing twisting and turning in the rough.
Who It’s For: Those who want to never hear the s-word (shank) again.
Clubhead: Stainless steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back ” Custom Options: N/A ” Clubs: 4-PW ” Shafts: F2 proprietary graphite (S, R)
f2golf.com | $599

Key Feature: This hybrid set uses a two-piece construction (carbon and steel) in the middle irons, a progressive sole design and specially designed shafts from Mitsubishi Rayon.
What We Like: The price is always tough to beat when talking about HiPPO clubs.
Who It’s For: Ideally, these irons are more suited for the mid- to high-handicapper, but that doesn’t mean a better player won’t benefit from the enhanced sweet spot and tremendous feel.
Clubhead: Stainless steel, carbon ” Clubface: Stainless steel ” Design: Progressive cavity-back ” Custom Options: N/A ” Clubs: 4-SW Shafts: Mitsubishi Rayon CP4 Graphite
hippo-golf.com | $349

Key Feature: The 658 has minimal offset that will appeal to better players and a 4-way cambered sole that aids supreme shotmaking versatility.
What We Like: The shallow cavity-back design gives better players a chance to work the ball without compromising the needed forgiveness found in a traditional cavity-back platform.
Who It’s For: Mid- to low-handicappers who want a classic, clean look from a
cavity-back design.
Clubhead: Stainless steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back ” Size: Midsized Clubs: 3-LW (available LH) ” Shafts: Custom shafts are available upon request
infinitigolf.com | $399

Key Feature: The new MC-102 is the first Miura iron with a hint of game improvement. The progressive offset and expanded sweet spot lend a feel and playability that’s tough to beat.
What We Like: How can we not mention Miura’s coveted forging process? The quality control and level of craftsmanship is amazing.
Who It’s For: We still think these are for better players who want some added “give” in the long irons, but that won’t stop the rest of us.
Clubhead: Mild carbon steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Progressive forged cavity-back Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 2-PW ” Shafts: Custom order
miuragolf.com | Price Varies

While custom-fit shafts are critical to drivers and woods, they’re just as important to irons. But unfortunately, most golfers don’t think in terms of getting their iron shafts reworked. Truth be told, iron shafts require just as much attention as any other shafts in the bag and luckily, 2008 has a few great new options if you’re looking for an upgrade.

Aldila VS Proto
Seems like yesterday the VS Proto shaft made its way into golf bags all over the place, now it’s only a matter of time until the iron shafts follow suit. Using the same Micro-Laminate tech found in the driver/woods shafts, these shafts are for the player who wants exceptional stability and a mid-to-low ballflight, all from a graphite shaft. www.aldila.com

Fujikura Rombax 115
Rombax iron shafts are built with the same advanced material technology as their extremely high-performance wood shafts of the same name. Rombax iron shafts provide outstanding consistency and stability at a weight that’s slightly lighter than many steel shafts, but heavy enough to maintain a solid feel.
www.fujikuragolf.com

Grafalloy ProLaunch
The ProLaunch series features a stable of graphite iron shafts that are designed to help all golfers hit the ball higher and with optimal launch characteristics. According to Grafalloy, the ProLaunch is the most torsionally stable composite iron shaft ever produced. It’s the same type of tech already used in the popular driver/woods ProLaunch shafts. www.grafalloy.com

Nippon N.S. Pro 750GH
The carbon filaments in the grip end are used to add strength to what’s already Nippon’s lightest metal iron shaft. At less than 80 grams, this is the shaft for those who want more speed in a steel product. www.nipponshaft.com

Royal Precision Project X
For players who want the ultimate in trajectory control and stability, the Project X is an excellent choice. The tapered design delivers maximum energy to the ball, without promoting a ballooning trajectory. For players who want a lighter and higher launch option, don’t miss the project X XL. www.royalprecision.com

True Temper Dynamic Gold High Launch
The mega-popular Dynamic Gold shaft line has expanded, this time with a shaft designed to look and feel a lot like the original Dynamic Gold, but with a boost in trajectory. Slightly lighter, this is a solid option for golfers who want a higher trajectory without having to switch to a higher spinning golf ball. www.truetemper.com

UST Proforce V2
Already popular on the pro tours, the Proforce V2 graphite line has extended into irons. What makes this shaft unique is the Constant Weight feature, enabling each shaft to retain the exact weight—despite using longer shafts in long irons and shorter shafts in short irons. Engineered for stability, feel and excellent control, these shafts should be a hit in ’08. www.ustgolfshafts.com

Key Feature: Its computer numeric controlled (CNC) cavity-back. Not only does it make this blade more forgiving, it makes it handsome too.
What We Like: MacGregor’s recent commitment to good “sticks.” In an era of high MOI, the company isn’t afraid to design clubs for the game’s better players.
Who It’s For: Better players who like the look and workability of a blade iron with the added forgiveness of a cavity-back.
Clubhead: 1025 Carbon steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Forged cavity-back blades ” Custom Options: Yes _â” Clubs: 3-PW ” Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold; Nippon NS Pro 1150GH
macgregorgolf.com | $799

Key Feature: The Cortech face has three
thicknesses for higher ball speed, uniform face deflection and distance control.
What We Like: Its three different head designs. (Wood shape for 3- and 4-irons, Forged 5-7 Hollow Technology hybrid irons and Forged 1025 E Pure Select carbon steel 8-LW.)
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers.
Clubhead: Carbon steel, Stainless steel Clubface: Stainless steel ” Design: Hybrid woods, cavity-back irons ” Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 3-LW ” Shafts: Dynalite Gold Superlite steel (S, R); Exsar IS2 Men’s graphite (S, R, A); Exsar IS2 Women’s (L)
mizunousa.com | $899 and up

Key Feature: Cut Muscle design with a cavity-back shape. (This enhances the club’s sweet spot with optimal perimeter weighting.)
What We Like: How Mizuno incorporated fine craftsmanship into a cavity-back club, making it the ideal iron set for forgiveness and control.
Who It’s For: Better players who want the feel of a forged blade with the added playability of a cavity-back.
Clubhead: Carbon steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Cut Muscle cavity-back ” Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 3-PW ” Shafts: Dynamic Gold steel (S, R); Exsar Tour Spec graphite (X, S, R); Rifle Project X steel (X, S, R)
mizunousa.com | $849

Key Feature: A large perimeter weighted clubhead with 20 grams of weight redistributed into one tungsten-polymer fused XW Insert that absorbs vibration at impact.
What We Like: How Nickent keeps pushing the envelope to produce innovative products that make the game fun for all types of golfers.
Who It’s For: Consistent players who want a game-improvement iron.
Clubhead: Stainless Steel, tungsten-polymer Clubface: Stainless Steel ” Design: Cavity Back Hybrid” Custom Fitting: Yes ” Clubs: 4-PW with two hybrids _â” Shafts: True Temper steel, UST SR3 graphite
nickentgolf.com | $599

Key Feature: Hollow clubhead with a titanium face, stainless steel body, carbon composite backing and tungsten/polymer inserts. More efficient loft spacing and longer carry distances result in an extremely versatile iron.
What We Like: Nickent engineers found a way to maximize iron carry distance without making a funky-looking clubhead.
Who It’s For: Any player who wants a high-tech iron that provides a lot of distance and feel.
Clubhead: Stainless steel ” Clubface: Titanium ” Design: Cavity-back hybrid
Custom Fitting: Yes ” Clubs: 3-PW ” Shafts: True Temper steel, UST SRT graphite.
nickentgolf.com | $799

Key Feature: The PowerBow provides extreme perimeter weighting, lowering the CG and raising the MOI and COR.
What We Like: The lightweight Cyro Steel Face Insert that enlarges the clubface’s sweet spot, and the vibration dampening TPU insert that makes mis-hits feel like winners.
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers who carry a hybrid and like wide-soled irons.
Clubhead: Stainless steel, TPU ” Clubface: Cryo steel ” Design: Cast cavity-back ” Custom Options: Yes _â” Clubs: 4-AW ” Shafts: True Temper Speed Step SL steel (S, R, A); iDiamana graphite by Mitsubishi Rayon (S, R, A)
nikegolf.com | $699 and up

Key Feature: The latest Slingshot iteration is the sleekest. This time it’s got a beveled sole, thinner topline and more compact shape.
Game improvement has never looked better.
What We Like: Nike’s attention to detail. They treat the Slingshot irons like individual clubs, not as a set. They’re the best Slingshots to date.
Who It’s For: Mid-handicappers, but don’t be surprised to see Tour players try _â__ðem in ’08.
Clubhead: Stainless steel ” Clubface: Same Design: Slingback cavity-back ” Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 2-SW ” Shafts: True Temper Speed Step SL steel (S, R, A); UST Slingshot 4D graphite (S, R, A)
nikegolf.com | $599

Key Feature: A Custom Tuning Port adds to the stability of the club on off-center hits. Also, an elastomer CTP insert improves the club’s sound.
What We Like: Extremely low toe weighting that increases its MOI. Another cool feature is its wide sole, which makes for less digging.
Who It’s For: Mid- to high-handicappers looking for a “game-improvement” club from the company who invented the genre.
Clubhead: Stainless steel ” Clubface: Stainless steel ” Design: Cast cavity back ” Custom Options: Yes ” Clubs: 2-UW, SW LW ” Shafts: PING AWT steel shaft (X, S, R, A); PING TFC 129i graphite (S, R, A)

Irons Buyer’s Guide 2007

Iron design has been evolving since the earliest days of golf. Though crude and often unwieldy, the first primitive tools quickly proved to be indispensable in situations where accuracy was the primary goal. In the modern era, the iron has become the staple of the set, and accordingly, iron designs are now better than ever. Of course, muscleback blades are still around for the most accomplished players, with some that actually incorporate advanced technologies to make them more player-friendly than your father’s VIPs or Goosenecks. Game-improvement designs, which now dominate the iron market, feature multi-material, perimeter-weighted designs that allow all types of players to hit towering approach shots from all types of lies. And what’s left in between? Combo sets, which meld the best of shotmaking in short irons, and extreme forgiveness in the shape of a hybrid as a long-iron replacement. So you ask, have we come a long way since the early days of raw iron and hickory shafts? You bet we have.

Be Picky!
When it comes to irons, golfers tend to get picky. Reason being, irons are quite sophisticated and each set is designed to accommodate a different type of player. This begs the question, what kind of player are you? Do you like to work the ball? Is distance a big factor for you? Either way you slice it (no pun intended), choosing the right iron set means selecting the most important clubs in your bag. Why? Not only are there more irons in your bag than any other club (even though that number is decreasing), you’re more likely to hit more iron shots than you will with any other club except for your putter. So, before you spend a few dollars, assess what kind of irons you want, what you want them to do and, most importantly, GET FITTED. Iron fitting is a must if you truly want to see better results, and don’t forget to get the right shafts. That, too, can make a big impact.

Hot Technologies

A New Tradition
Though the forged blade is slowly becoming only a bit player in the iron game, they still look and feel the best—if you can handle them. For those with the talent, blades like Mizuno’s MP-67s are more advanced and even a bit more player-friendly than the old-school models that hacked up golf courses all through the ’70s and ’90s. Features like Mizuno’s Cut Muscle and Grain Flow Forging techniques now allow for true blades that dampen some unwanted vibration on mis-hits and provide superior shotmaking consistency. Other advances to look for in the blade market are new clubhead materials, a variety of sole grinds and degrees of offset, progressive set makeup and outstanding custom-fitting options.

Techno-Blades
Better players still demand irons that feature a specific type of profile. Limited offset, thin toplines, relatively sharp sole designs with less bounce and compact clubheads are all part of the formula. But even the best players in the world are less concerned with appearances and more with performance these days, and players’ clubs are slowly but surely taking on a new look. Exhibit A is TaylorMade’s r7 TP, which is built with all the aforementioned players’ characteristics and more. Most notably, TaylorMade engineers designed the TP with the company’s Inverted Cone Technology, which increases COR for greater ball speed, more distance and enhanced forgiveness. Basically, it’s a game-improvement blade, believe it or not.

Hollow Bodies Are Here To Stay
Game-improvement is a relative term. For some, it means a blade with a tiny bit more offset or a slightly wider sole, while some expect sole weights, graphite shafts and flexible clubfaces. When it comes to iron designs, however, many players wouldn’t expect what the HiBore irons bring to the table. Featuring Cleveland’s Inverted Crown Design and Full Hollow Construction, the HiBores are more hybrid, less iron, with the performance to prove it. A low and deep CG location promotes high launch angles throughout the set, making it easy for all players, even those with slower swing speeds, to get the ball airborne with an optimal trajectory. An extremely wide sole and added sole weight enhance performance from all types of lies.

Multi-Material Performance
Some companies like Nickent have taken a unique and innovative approach to iron design by letting go of the old and being brave enough to bring in the new. Spearheaded by industry veteran John Hoeflich, the 3DX irons are a great example of what a club designer can do with a bit of creativity and a bunch of different materials. Consisting of a composite cap and two heavy steel plugs at the rear heel and toe areas of the clubhead, which is hollow, by the way, the 3DX Hybrid is made to launch the ball high and produce maximum distance. Mated with matching hybrid woods that are designed specifically to bridge the necessary distance gaps, the 3DX set could be the model for what will become the standard in iron design in the very near future.

Understanding Our Charts
Clubhead: The primary material from which the club is either forged or cast, usually a form of stainless steel or softer-feeling carbon steel.
Clubface: The material used for the strike area.
Design: Here you’ll find whether the club is forged or cast and its general shape. Basically, irons fall into two shape categories—blades or cavity-backs.
Size: Standard, midsize or oversize.
Clubs: Lists the clubs available in the line, the presence of extra wedge options and whether or not the clubs are available for lefties.
Shafts: These are the stock graphite and steel shaft offerings. Almost all irons are available with custom shaft options, however. See the manufacturers’ Websites for more details.
Features: The primary design elements that make the iron noteworthy.
Advantages: How the primary design elements are meant to elevate the club’s performance.
Benefits: A general recommendation as to which skill level or player type would best be served by the iron model in question.
What We Like: We have our preferences, too. A quick description of what impressed us in our review and on-course testing.
Lineup: The other models available from the manufacturer.

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Adams IDEA Pro Forged adamsgolf.com (800) 709-6142 | $799 The new IDEA Pro Forged combo set from Adams proves that even the best players in the world have opted for iron/hybrid sets. Features: The irons are classically shaped with no offset and forged for a Tour-wanted, soft, resounding feel. The thin topline gives better players the look they like. Advantages: It’s not all irons here. This set has two hybrids that replace the 3- and 4-iron to help make the task, from 190 yards and up, a less difficult one. Benefits: This set is designed for the better player, but don’t let that deter you if you want forgiveness. What We Like: The irons are smooth and have a buttery feel. The hybrids are easy to hit. Lineup: IDEA Tech OS, IDEA a2 OS, IDEA a2, IDEA Pro Forged Clubhead: Carbon steel Clubface: Same Design: Forged cavity-back Size: Midsize Clubs: 5-PW, 3-, 4-iWood (available LH) Shafts: True Temper Black Gold (S, R); Aldila NV graphite (S, R)	Bridgestone GC Midsize bridgestonegolf.com (800) 358-6319 | $699 The latest iron from Bridgestone has the ideal genetic makeup for the player looking to hit better shots. Features: The uniquely shaped cavity of the new GC Midsize irons has a Gravity Chamber aperture in the back, further enhancing the iron’s MOI and perimeter weighting. Advantages: The Gravity Discs located on the corners of the irons aid in keeping weight away from the center of the clubface and more toward the heel and toe. The results are short irons for shotmaking and long irons for forgiveness. Benefits: Just about everybody will see better results from the GC Midsize. If more forgiveness is needed, the GC Oversize irons are a great choice. What We Like: Great looks married with outstanding performance. Awesome! Lineup: GC Oversize, GC Midsize, J33 Cavity Back, J33 Blade Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Midsized Clubs: 3-SW Shafts: Nippon N.S.Pro 950GH steel (S, R)
Callaway X-Forged callawaygolf.com (800) 588-9836 | $799 Better players will be drooling over this slick new iron from Callaway. Features: The X-Forged is shorter (from heel to toe) and has less offset than other Callaway irons. Advantages: The X-Forged has a thinner sole and topline than any other Callaway iron, but seemingly, these irons remain more forgiving and playable than a standard set of blades. The Notch-Weighting design provides the needed blend of forgiveness and shotmaking ability. Benefits: Low-handicappers and elite players. What We Like: These look great, and the low CG in the long irons helps with forgiveness. The raised CG in the short irons makes them versatile. Lineup: BB Fusion, BB Fusion WS, Big Bertha, X-18, X-18 Pro, X-20, X-20 Tour, X-Tour, X-Forged Clubhead: Carbon steel Clubface: Same Design: Forged cavity-back Size: Standard Clubs: 2-PW (available LH) Shafts: Royal Precision Project X Flighted steel (X, S, R)	Callaway X-20 callawaygolf.com (800) 588-9836 | $699 The hippest Callaway iron to date is also the company’s best. Features: Thanks to a Progressive Wall Reduction System design, the new X-20 has a lower CG than the older X-18s. Advantages: Extreme Notch Weighting and Callaway’s Variable Face Thickness design lends ample perimeter weighting and stability, thus proving an easy-to-hit iron need not look clunky, but instead smooth and refined. Also, the 360-Degree Undercut Channel makes the sweet spot bigger. Benefits: Virtually all players can take advantage of Callaway’s newest X-iron design. Better players can choose from the sexy X-20 Tour option. What We Like: The ball launches high and straight. Lineup: BB Fusion, Fusion WS, Big Bertha, X-20, X-20 Tour, X-Tour, X-Forged Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Midsized Clubs: 2-LW (available LH) Shafts: True Temper Steel (uniflex); Callaway X-20 graphite (S, R, A)
Cleveland HiBORE Irons clevelandgolf.com (800) 999-6263 | $599 We weren’t sure where to classify this set at first, considering there’s not a single “iron” in the mix. Features: Every club in the HiBORE iron set features Cleveland Golf’s Inverted Crown Design and Full Hollow Construction, resulting in an “iron” with a deep and low CG. Frankly, the HiBORE Irons are the company’s most forgiving irons ever. Advantages: A progressive sole width, bulge and roll on long irons and a high COR equate to the optimal blend of power and forgiveness in an iron set. Benefits: Mid- to high-handicappers. What We Like: The HiBORE irons are easy to look at, and with minimal effort, the ball launches high with a penetrating trajectory. Lineup: HiBORE, Launcher, TA6, CG1, CG2, CG3, CG4, CG4 Tour Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Hollow-body Size: Oversized Clubs: 3-PW Shafts: HiBORE steel (S, R, A); HiBORE Silver by Graphite Design graphite (S, R, A)	Cobra S9 cobragolf.com (800) 225-8500 | $599 According to Cobra, the S9 is “the most technologically advanced and most forgiving iron” made by the company. Features: Multi-material technology isn’t just for drivers, as Cobra’s new S9 proves it’s possible to merge polymer and urethane with steel. Advantages: The polymer topline displaces a chunk of weight, and the urethane insert in the cavity of the iron yields a soft, unique feel. Benefits: Mid- to high-handicappers can’t help but love a set of irons that play like cavity-backs but have the feel of a forged blade. What We Like: Smooth looks and the optional Graphite Design graphite shafts are a nice touch. Lineup: S9, FP, Forged CB Clubhead: Stainless steel, polymer, urethane Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Oversized Clubs: 3-LW (available LH) Shafts: Nippon 1030H steel (S, R, A, L); Graphite Design YS-5.1 graphite (S, R, A, L)

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F2 F2 Series Plus Irons f2golf.com (800) 476-0507 | $599 The popular, odd-shaped wedge line that’s virtually unshankable is proud to introduce a full line of irons. Features: Like the wedges, the F2 Series Plus irons feature the company’s Face-Forward design, which effectively places the hosel away from the leading edge of the irons, thus making them a cinch to hit. Advantages: The Face-Forward design not only eliminates shanked shots, but also is an effective means to prevent twisting from thick rough and in the sand. It’s also effective from tight lies too, as it seems just as easy to make contact. Benefits: Geared toward the high-handicapper. What We Like: The fun-to-hit factor Lineup: F2 Series Plus Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Midsized Clubs: 4-PW Shafts: F2 Proprietary graphite (S, R) HiPPO XXL	HiPPO XXL hippo-golf.com (800) 204-2807 | $279 HiPPO does golfers a favor by replacing the hard-to-hit long irons with two hybrids. Features: An Extreme Launch System design that employs a deep, full cavity that effectively lowers the CG for a higher and longer ballflight. The two XXL hybrids replace the 3- and 4-irons, helping golfers not only hit the ball higher than they would with a long iron, but also straighter. Advantages: Mixed sets aren’t new, but having a couple of hybrids makes a difference. Benefits: Mid- to high-handicappers who need an extra boost with hybrids and who prefer perimeter-weighted irons. What We Like: The incredible price and HiPPO habit of providing outstanding value. Lineup: HiPPO XXL Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Cast progressive set Size: Midsized Clubs: 3, 4 hybrid; 5-PW (no LH) Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold steel (S, R); HiPPO XXL graphite (S, R, A, L)
Infiniti 658 infinitigolf.com (800) 253-6370 | $399 Smooth looks and classic lines dominate the newest gem from Infiniti Golf. Features: The 658 has minimal offset to attract better players and a 4-way cambered sole that affords supreme shotmaking versatility. Advantages: The relatively shallow cavity-back design gives better players the opportunity to work the ball without compromising the needed forgiveness found in a traditional cavity-back platform. The extra weight on the lower region of the cavity aids in stability and in lowering the CG. Benefits: Mid- to low-handicappers who want a classic, clean look from a cavity-back design. What We Like: The looks of the 658 are refreshing, and the 4-way cambered sole really makes a difference when hitting off varied surfaces. Lineup: 302, 422, 658, AW-3, Assure Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Midsized Clubs: 3-LW (available LH) Shafts: Custom shafts are available upon request	Innovex Type S innovexgolf.com (866) 402-6097 | $276 Designed to feel like a forged blade but perform with the strength of a cast cavity-back. Features: The large, undercut cavity-channel elevates the MOI and lowers the CG, resulting in iron shots that fly high and straight. The enhanced perimeter weighting enlarges the hitting area on the clubface, for minimal loss of distance on off-center strikes and mis-hits. Advantages: The two-way cambered sole lends exceptional shotmaking abilities from anywhere. Benefits: Average players who want the forgiveness of a wide sole, a hefty cavity and progressive offset through the set. What We Like: The looks are great, but its options, such as custom lie and loft configurations, really make the Type S a winner in our book. Lineup: Type S Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Midsized Clubs: 4-PW (available LH) Shafts: FST Pro White steel (S, R); Custom graphite shafts are available
KZG CB III kzgolf.com (800) 200-8800 | Custom Order A solid blend of forgiveness and playability from a top-notch oversized design. Features: The CB III irons have moderate offset, a wide sole and a low CG to help get the ball airborne faster. The ample perimeter weighting ensures optimal forgiveness across an extended area of the clubface. Advantages: Typically, an iron designed for forgiveness is cast, but not with the CB III. These irons have the forgiveness of castings, but the feel of a forged blade. Nice! Benefits: Mid- to high-handicappers. What We Like: KZG has been popular for die-hard clubfitters, and judging by the look and performance of the CB III, KZG’s success is destined to continue. Lineup: OC-1, MC-II, PC III, Evolution, CB III, CB II, CB, Blades, ZO Blades Clubhead: Carbon steel Clubface: Same Design: Forged cavity-back Size: Oversized Clubs: 3-SW Shafts: Complete shaft customization available	Louisville LG33 louisvillegolf.com (800) 456-1631 | $749 From a company whose tradition is built on persimmon comes a beautiful new forged blade…or is it? Features: Designed for the purist (who probably uses wooden woods), the LG33 irons combine the feel of a forged blade with the rugged performance of a cast cavity-back design. Advantages: Better players will notice the forgiveness in the long irons, but will also revel in how versatile the short irons are when it comes to delicate shotmaking. The ballflight is a penetrating one, just like a what a pro would want, but not so low that the average player can’t benefit._Ê Benefits: Moderate to skilled players. What We Like: The LG33 had us fooled! We really thought these were forged, even though they’re not. Lineup: SMART, LCd.31, LG33 Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Same Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Standard Clubs: 3-LW Shafts: True Temper steel (X, S, R, A, L); Louisville Golf graphite (X, S, R, A, L)

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Mizuno MP-67 mizunousa.com (800) 966-1211 | $849 Look for the new MP-67 to make a big impact this season. Features: The next generation of irons with Cut Muscle technology, the MP-67 irons use a more slender Cut Muscle design, which is slightly adjusted for each club to optimize that club’s CG. Nice. Advantages: A slender cavity means more trajectory control, enhanced feel and better ball control. The rolled leading edge and trailing edge, as well as the cambered sole, make hitting a variety of shots from different lies an easier task. Benefits: Low-handicappers and professionals will reap the rewards of Mizuno’s sexiest iron. What We Like: The slenderized MX-67 looks so good, golfers might be afraid to actually use them. Lineup: MX-17, 19, 23, 25, 900; MP-30, 32, 60, 67 Clubhead: Carbon steel Clubface: Same Design: Forged muscle-back Size: Standard Clubs: 2-PW Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold steel (X, S, R); Exsar IS2 Tour Spec graphite (X, S, R)	MacGregor NVG2 Mid macgregorgolf.com (800) 841-4358 | $699 MacGregor’s newest iron is ready to win. Features: Where to begin on this one! Cup Face 360 design, Hollow-Body Structure and a variable face thickness are just a few of the advantages in the NVG2 Mid. This is MacGregor’s most forgiving and playable iron ever. Advantages: The Hollow-Body Structure moves the CG away from the face and the Cup Face 360 design creates a bigger and hotter hitting area across the clubface. The Triple Action shaft adds significant yardage. Benefits: All golfers who want ultimate forgiveness. What We Like: It looks powerful and is among the easiest to hit and longest irons we’ve tried this year. Lineup: NVG2, NVG2 Mid, M685, M675 Clubhead: Stainless steel Clubface: Maraging steel Design: Cast cavity-back Size: Oversized Clubs: 3-GW Shafts: Micro-Step steel (S, R); Fujikura Triple Action graphite (S, R, A)
Mizuno MX-25 mizunousa.com (800) 966-1211 | $749 The MX-25 is poised to do what the MX-23 did for the game-improvement category: become the best-selling Mizuno iron. Features: The wide and deep CNC-milled cavity of each MX-25 iron affords what Mizuno calls H.E.M.I. (High Energy Mass Impact) COG, otherwise known as an iron with a very low CG and ample perimeter weighting. Advantages: By the way, this forgiving iron is Grain Flow Forged, resulting in one of the best-feeling irons ever made by Mizuno—cavity-back or not. Benefits: Even though these babies are designed for mid- to high-handicappers, don’t be surprised to see the MX-25 irons in a Tour pro’s bag. What We Like: The cambered sole and rolled edges are shaped to perfection. Lineup: MX-17, 19, 23, 25, 900; MP-30, 32, 60, 67 Clubhead: Carbon steel Clubface: Same Design: Forged cavity-back Size: Midsized Clubs: 3-PW (available LH) Shafts: True Temper Dynalite Gold Superlite steel (S, R); Exsar IS2 graphite (S, R, A, L)	Nickent 3DX Hybrid nickentgolf.com (888) NICKENT | $599 Are these the longest irons ever? Give them a whack and see. Features: The most innovative iron ever from Nickent, the 3DX Hybrid irons combine a hollow-clubhead construction, a composite cap and two heavy steel plugs at the rear heel and toe regions for an iron that yields awesome power. Advantages: The hollow body shares COR and flight characteristics with fairway woods, and there are no traditional irons in the set. Benefits: Virtually all abilities who want significantly more distance from the fairway with not just long irons, but mid- and short irons as well. What We Like: The 3DX irons look great at address, and they’re easily the most forgiving irons from Nickent. Lineup: 3DX Hybrid, 3DX, 3DX Pro, GENEX ARC Blades Clubhead: Stainless steel, carbon composite Clubface: Stainless steel Design: Cast hollow-body Size: Oversized Clubs: 3-4 Hybrid, 5-GW (available LH) Shafts: Nippon 850 steel (Uniflex); UST Speedrated 2 (S, R, A)
Nike CCi nikegolf.com (888) 799-6453| $700 These irons sound and feel awesome. Features: The CCi irons feature a composite insert in the cavity, a Tungsten plug in the sole and two polymer-filled ports, resulting in an iron that yields a soft feel. Advantages: The CNC-milled face e In Case you missed it Holiday Gift Guide 7 Gear Upgrades to Gift This Season Ted Odorico October 17, 2026 0 Editor's Picks & Reviews Hit More Greens with Tri-Fusion Tech Ted Odorico October 17, 2026 0 Editor's Picks & Reviews Does “Forward Axis Weighting” Actually Work? Ted Odorico October 17, 2026 0 Editor's Picks & Reviews Total Course Control with the Mileseey GenePro G1 Ted Odorico October 6, 2026 0 0 0 Your Cart Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop Continue Shopping