Last Updated on January 12, 2024 by Matt Greene
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Fairway woods and hybrids perform the same purpose in your golf bag - to replace long irons. There are some big differences between them which you may not be aware of.

1. Fairway woods and hybrids with the same number printed on the bottom are not the same club. 
2. Hybrids and fairway woods with the same loft, do not go the same distance for most golfers. 
3. Hybrids are more versatile than fairway woods around the course.

Let's get more in depth.

Differences between hybrids and fairway woods

If you're new to hybrids and fairway woods, you might think that a 3 hybrid is the same as a 3 wood or a 5 hybrid is the same as a 5 wood. They are different clubs however and they're different in two ways: shaft length and loft.

Fairway woods have longer shafts with bigger club heads than hybrids. They produce more spin and fly much higher in the air than a hybrid of the same loft which means the fairway wood lands softer with less rollout. 

Hybrids are a combination of a long iron and a fairway wood. Hybrids have smaller heads and shorter shafts than fairway woods. They produce lower ball flights and lower spin rates than fairway woods which means the ball will roll further after landing.  Hybrids usually have more weight in the heel of the club, like an iron does, so most hybrids will create a right to left ball flight.

Hybrids and woods are numbered in a different way

Fairway woods are named after the driver.

The driver is the number 1 wood. After the number 1 wood, follows the 3, 5, 7 and 9 wood. The higher the loft, the higher the number on the bottom of the fairway wood.

Hybrids are designed to replace irons so they are named after the iron they replace. 2 hybrid replaces 2 iron, 3 hybrid replaces a 3 iron etc. 

Hybrids have shorter shafts

Hybrids and fairway woods both come standard with graphite shafts, but the fairway woods always have longer shafts than the hybrid equivalents. Sometimes the shorter shaft can make the club more accurate. The shorter shaft in almost all cases, except for scratch players, will mean a shorter shot than a longer shaft at the same loft. 

Center of Gravity differences

The fairway wood club head is bigger and longer, to move the center of gravity further back from the club face. Moving the center of gravity (CoG) further back helps to elevate the golf ball when you hit the fairway wood off the ground without a tee.

The hybrid club head is much smaller so the center of gravity will be closer toward the club face. You can expect lower launch and less rollout from a hybrid when we compare a hybrid and fairway wood of the same loft.

The difference in center of gravity may be the reason that a hybrid is easier to use and more versatile as a chipping club and as a rescue club from tough lies in the rough. 

Launch differences of hybrids and fairway woods

The fairway wood launches higher and the ball flies to a higher maximum height than a hybrid of the same loft.

The center of gravity causes the shaft to bend at impact more in a fairway wood, than in a hybrid. That bend helps to launch a fairway wood high when you're hitting it off the fairway. The hybrid launches much lower because the center of gravity is closer to the club face. Center of gravity closer to the club face means there is less shaft bend at impact, which means 

Swing differences 

The fairway wood works best with a slightly sweeping swing. Fairway woods have large club heads with big soles that allow a skimming of the club, which launches the ball nice and high.

Hybrids work well with a downward strike like with an iron. Catching the ball on the lower part of the club face is forgiving, but the ball does not fly as far.

How do hybrids and fairway woods with the same loft compare?

From the data we have collected, we conclude that a hybrid will carry a shorter distance than a fairway wood with the same loft.

If we were to use the same length shaft, with the same loft, the carry distance would be identical but the total distance would be longer with a hybrid. The hybrid is a lower spinning, lower launching club which means you will get more rollout than a fairway wood, if we keep shaft length and loft the same. 

Fairway wood vs hybrid distance chart

In this table, we compare the carry distance of a 90mph driver swing speed:

Fairway woods vs hybrid comparisons

3 wood vs 3 hybrid difference

A 3 wood is a fairway wood with 15 degrees of loft while a 3 hybrid is a long iron replacement with 19-20 degrees of loft.

Not only is the loft different by 5 degrees, but the length of the shaft in a 3 wood is 43 inches while a 3 hybrid is only 41 inches. The 3 woods lower loft and extra length will produce a much longer shot than the 3 hybrid.

An example golfer with 90 mph swing speed will carry a 3 wood around 192 yards but a 3 hybrid around 170 yards. 

The actual hybrid equivalent of a 3 wood is a 1 hybrid because both 3 wood and 1 hybrid replace 1 iron in the golf bag.

Which hybrid replaces a 3 wood?

There is no hybrid that replaces a 3 wood. A 3 wood is around 15 degrees of loft and any hybrid of that loft will be too difficult to hit in comparison to a 3 wood. 

The old 1 iron was once the 3 wood equivalent but in modern day golf, the 3 wood is the only option in the 15 degree loft range. 

5 wood vs 5 hybrid difference

The 5 fairway wood has 17 to 19 degrees of loft but a 5 hybrid is made to replace a 5 iron with 24 or 25 degrees of loft.

The loft difference ranges from 5 to 8 degrees, and the length of the shaft in a 5 wood is 42 inches while a 3 hybrid is 40 inches. A 5 wood will produce a much longer shot due to the longer shaft and lower loft. 

A golfer with 90 mph swing speed will carry a 5 wood around 185 yards but a 5 hybrid around 156 yards.

5 wood and 3 hybrid

Differences: The 5-wood and 3-hybrid can be similar in carry distance for fast swing speeds, but with a longer shaft, the 5 wood will generally go further than a 3 hybrid for most average swing speed golfers. At a moderate swing speed, a 5 wood carries 185-190 yards while the 3 hybrid carries about 180-185 yards for male golfers.

Loft

5 wood loft: 16-19 degrees

3 hybrid loft: 19 degrees

Shaft Length

5 wood shaft length: 42 inches

3 hybrid shaft length: 40 inches

Draw bias

3 hybrids are made with offset to help to pull the ball toward the left side, preventing those big left-to-right shots.

5 woods usually have a neutral face but because of the higher loft between 16 and 19 degrees, it is easy to hit with less shot shape than lower lofted clubs. 

When to use hybrids vs fairway woods

In my experience, the fairway wood and hybrid are useful in a number of situations but the hybrid is more versatile.

Fairway woods

• More accurate tee shot - 5 wood or 7 wood can ensure a shot in the fairway. 3 wood are not easy to hit and should be avoided.
• Long approach shots or long par 3s
• Higher spin, higher maximum shot height for soft landing with minimal rollout
• Easiest to hit from the fairway or fluffed up lies in the rough
• Lower dispersion due to higher spin rates means you can control the ball better

Hybrids

• More accurate tee shots
• Long approach shots and long par 3s
• Punch shots out of the trees where you need to keep the ball low
• Chipping around the green if you hit bad chips with your wedges
• Lower launch, penetrating ball flight with more rollout due to lower spin
• Easier to hit from tough lies in the rough than irons and fairway woods
• More controllable due to shorter shaft but draw bias can increase dispersion

Conclusion

Mostly the choice to play a hybrid or a fairway wood comes down to preference of ball flight and the type of shot you need.

A fairway wood launches high and lands softly.

A hybrid launches lower and rolls out further.

If you like the look and feel of an iron, the hybrid may be best. If you like the look and feel of fairway woods, they will perform better for you. It all depends on what your goal is. Now you know the differences, you can make the best decisions on the course. 

In the dynamic world of golf, every detail matters. From your grip to your swing, each element plays a pivotal role in determining your success on the course. Among these often-overlooked factors, the proper lie angle of your golf club can significantly influence the outcome of your shots. In this article, we'll look at how this seemingly minor adjustment to your golf clubs can have a major impact on your game.

What Is Lie Angle and How Do You Measure Lie Angle

In golf, the lie angle of a club refers to the angle formed between the sole of the clubhead and the shaft when the club is placed in a horizontal position on a flat surface. It is a crucial aspect of club fitting because it directly affects how the clubhead interacts with the ground at impact. The lie angle can be measured using specialized tools known as lie angle gauges. These gauges determine the angle at which the sole of the clubhead should be in contact with the ground for the golfer's specific swing.

How To Check Your Lie Angle

Checking your lie angle is a fundamental step in club fitting. To do this, you can use impact tape or foot spray to mark the clubface, make a swing, and observe the mark's location on the clubface after the shot. If the mark is towards the heel (closer to the hosel), the lie angle may be too upright. Conversely, if the mark is towards the toe, the lie angle may be too flat. Additionally, professional club fitters use launch monitors and high-speed cameras to analyze ball flight and clubhead impact to determine the appropriate lie angle for a golfer's swing.

What is a lie board?

A lie board, also known as a lie angle board or lie angle tape, is a tool used in golf club fitting to determine and adjust the lie angle of irons or wedges. It is a flat, rigid board with a series of lines or markings on it. Golfers and club fitters use lie boards to assess whether the lie angle of a golf club is appropriate for the golfer's swing and posture.

Here's how a lie board works:

1. Placing the Club: The golfer addresses the ball on the lie board as they would on the golf course, with the clubhead resting on the lie board's surface.
2. Impact Mark: When the golfer makes a swing, the clubhead makes contact with the lie board. This contact leaves an impact mark or a pattern of marks on the sole of the club. The location and direction of these marks indicate how the clubhead is interacting with the ground at impact.
3. Analysis: By examining the impact marks on the sole of the club, a club fitter can determine whether the lie angle needs adjustment. The ideal lie angle is one that results in a flat, even mark across the club's sole. If the marks show that the toe or heel of the club is making more contact with the lie board, adjustments may be needed.
4. Adjustment: If necessary, the fitter can adjust the lie angle of the club by bending the club's hosel. This adjustment is made to ensure that the clubhead sits flush with the ground at impact, promoting a more accurate and consistent ball strike.

Lie boards are particularly useful when fitting irons because the lie angle can have a significant impact on shot direction and ball flight. By using lie boards, golfers and club fitters can fine-tune the lie angle of irons to match the golfer's swing mechanics and body posture, ultimately improving the golfer's accuracy and performance on the golf course.

Effect of A Flat vs. Upright Lie Angle On Your Shots

The lie angle of your club can have a profound effect on your shots. A flat lie angle tends to produce a lower ball flight, potentially leading to hooks for some golfers. On the other hand, an upright lie angle generally results in a higher ball flight, which can help counteract a hook tendency. It's essential to find the right balance to optimize your shots for distance, accuracy, and consistency.

What Does It Mean To Be Too Upright?

Being too upright means that the clubhead is oriented too vertically when addressing the ball. This can cause the toe of the club to be off the ground, leading to the potential for hooks and inconsistent shots. Golfers who are too upright may struggle with directional control and may not achieve the desired ball flight characteristics.

Adjusting Your Lie Angle

Lie angle adjustments are typically made by bending the club's hosel. A club fitter can use a specialized bending machine to make these adjustments. For clubs with adjustable hosels, golfers can often make minor lie angle adjustments themselves. However, it's crucial to consult with a professional club fitter before attempting any changes to ensure the modifications are correct and will improve your game.

Lie angle chart

Using A Lie Angle Adjustment To Help Improve Your Swing

A properly fitted lie angle can help you improve your swing mechanics and ball-striking consistency. By optimizing the lie angle, you can reduce the chance of slicing or hooking the ball and increase the likelihood of hitting straighter, more accurate shots. It's an essential component of club fitting that can lead to better performance and a more enjoyable golfing experience, helping you reach your full potential on the course.

Lie angle - Irons vs Woods

Lie Angle in Irons:

1. Impact on Ball Flight: The lie angle of irons has a direct impact on the direction and trajectory of your shots. A correctly fitted lie angle in irons ensures that the sole of the club is in proper contact with the ground at impact, allowing you to strike the ball cleanly. An incorrect lie angle in irons can result in shots that veer off target and may not reach their intended distance.
2. Consistency: In irons, lie angle consistency is critical throughout the set. As you progress from short irons to long irons, the lie angle may need to be adjusted slightly to maintain consistent ball flight and accuracy.
3. Fitting Process: To determine the appropriate lie angle for your irons, club fitters often analyze your swing and ball flight using launch monitors or high-speed cameras. They may make adjustments to individual irons to ensure optimal performance.

Lie Angle in Woods (Drivers and Fairway Woods):

1. Less Pronounced Impact: The lie angle in woods, particularly in drivers and fairway woods, has a less pronounced effect on shot direction and trajectory compared to irons. This is because you're generally hitting these clubs off a tee or a clean lie in the fairway.
2. Ball Flight Adjustment: While lie angle in woods may not be as critical as in irons, it can still influence ball flight to some extent. For instance, a flatter lie angle in a driver might promote a slightly lower ball flight, which can be desirable for some golfers seeking more roll after landing.
3. Static Lie Angle: Before the introduction of adjustable loft sleeves on woods, having the lie angle adjusted on your 3 wood or driver was tricky to do. Now a skilled club fitter can use the options available to them to find the optimum lie angle and loft for your swing. The right lie angle with a wood can help you to get the golf ball started on the right target line and hopefully influence the shot shape that you're trying to play. The wrong lie angle can mean the ball starts on the wrong line for your intended or natural shot shape.

Lie angle is important for both irons and woods, but it tends to have a more significant impact on the performance of irons due to the nature of the shots they are used for. Golfers should still pay attention to lie angle in their woods, especially when custom-fitting, to ensure that it complements their swing and desired ball flight characteristics. However, it's generally less variable and less adjustable in woods compared to irons.

Lie angle for shorter players

Shorter golfers, due to their lower stature, tend to have a more upright posture at address. This natural tendency in their normal playing position can lead to the heel of the club making contact with the ground first if the lie angle is too upright. As a result, shorter players may experience inconsistent ball striking and a tendency to pull or hook the ball.

To address this, a flatter lie angle is often recommended for shorter golfers. A flatter lie angle allows the clubhead to sit more level with the ground at impact, promoting cleaner and more consistent ball striking. It can also help reduce the likelihood of a hook, as it encourages a more neutral clubface angle at impact.

As always, it's crucial for golfers of all heights to undergo a proper club fitting process to determine the ideal lie angle based on their individual swing mechanics and body posture. This ensures that the lie angle is optimized to improve performance and ball flight characteristics. Thank you for pointing out the correction, and I appreciate your understanding.

Lie angle for taller players

Taller golfers indeed often benefit from an upright lie angle rather than a flatter one. Here's why:

Taller golfers typically have longer arms, which can lead to a more upright posture at address. This upright posture can cause the clubhead to sit more upright on the ground naturally. If a tall golfer were to use a flatter lie angle, it could result in the toe of the club making contact with the ground first, leading to inconsistent ball striking and a tendency to push or slice the ball.

Conversely, using an upright lie angle for taller golfers helps ensure that the clubhead makes proper contact with the ground at impact, promoting a more consistent and accurate ball strike. It can also help reduce the likelihood of a hook, as it encourages a more neutral clubface angle at impact.

So, for taller golfers, an upright lie angle can be a beneficial adjustment to help optimize their club's performance and ball flight characteristics. As always, it's essential to undergo a proper club fitting process, preferably with the assistance of a professional club fitter, to determine the ideal lie angle based on individual swing characteristics and body posture.

Cast vs Forged Clubs For Adjusting Lie Angle

Whether you have cast or forged clubs, you can typically adjust the lie angle to suit your swing characteristics and body posture. Both types of clubs can be bent to achieve the desired lie angle, but there are some differences to consider:

Cast Clubs:

1. Material: Cast clubs are made by pouring molten metal into a mold. They are generally made from stainless steel or other alloys.
2. Adjustability: Cast clubs are less malleable than forged clubs, meaning they may be more prone to breaking or cracking if bent too much. However, they can still be adjusted once.
3. Bending Process: When adjusting the lie angle of cast clubs, it's important to work with a professional club fitter who has experience with cast materials. They will use specialized equipment to carefully bend the clubhead to achieve the desired lie angle.

Forged Clubs:

1. Material: Forged clubs are made by shaping solid metal bars through heat and pressure. They are typically made from softer carbon steel or other metals.
2. Adjustability: Forged clubs are more pliable and easier to adjust when compared to cast clubs. This allows for a wider range of lie angle adjustments.
3. Bending Process: Forged clubs are well-suited for lie angle adjustments because of their malleability. A professional club fitter can precisely bend the clubhead to achieve the desired lie angle with less risk of damaging the club.

Both cast and forged clubs can be adjusted for lie angle, but forged clubs are generally more accommodating to significant lie angle changes. If you're considering lie angle adjustments, it's advisable to consult with a professional club fitter who has experience with your specific club type and material. They can help you achieve the desired lie angle while minimizing the risk of damaging the club head.

Final thoughts on upright vs flat lie angles

Here are some final thoughts to consider when evaluating whether an upright or flat lie angle is right for you:

1. Custom Fitting is Key: The most important aspect of choosing the right lie angle is undergoing a proper custom fitting. This process takes into account your unique swing mechanics, body posture, and ball flight tendencies to determine the ideal lie angle for your clubs. A professional club fitter can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
2. Upright Lie Angle: Golfers who benefit from an upright lie angle often have taller stature, a more upright swing plane, or a tendency to slice the ball. Upright lie angles can help promote straighter shots and better contact with the turf for these individuals.
3. Flat Lie Angle: Shorter golfers or those with a flatter swing plane may find that a flatter lie angle improves their ball striking consistency. It can help ensure that the clubhead sits flush with the ground at impact, reducing the likelihood of digging the clubhead into the turf.
4. Individual Variation: The ideal lie angle is not one-size-fits-all. Each golfer is unique, and their lie angle requirements can vary. Even within a single golfer's set of clubs, different irons or wedges may require different lie angles to optimize performance.
5. Adjustability: Many modern clubs, especially irons and wedges, offer some degree of adjustability in terms of lie angle. This can be useful for fine-tuning your clubs to match your evolving swing or posture.
6. Professional Guidance: When in doubt, seek the guidance of a professional club fitter or golf instructor. They have the expertise and tools to determine the ideal lie angle adjustments for your specific needs.

So, the choice between upright and flat lie angles is highly individualized and dependent on various factors. What's most important is that your lie angles are tailored to enhance your ball striking, accuracy, and consistency on the golf course. A professional club fitting is the best way to ensure that your clubs are optimized for your unique swing, ultimately helping you play your best golf.

Modern-day golf balls are classified based on the number of layers of rubber materials in their core, such as 2-piece, 3-piece, and 4-piece. The outer covers are usually made of either urethane or surlyn. While some might wonder about the mysterious contents of a golf ball, it's safe to say that they are not filled with rubber bands or water.

The History of the Golf Ball

The evolution of golf ball composition has been quite intriguing. Early humble golf ball versions were simple wooden spheres, later replaced by featherie balls in the 15th century. These were leather balls filled with feathers and painted white, but they had their limitations due to water absorption and irregular shape. In the 19th century, the gutta percha ball, made from natural latex, gained popularity, being more affordable and uniform in shape.

A significant breakthrough came with the creation of Haskell balls by winding rubber strands around a solid core and coating them with gutta percha. These balls featured dimples on their surface for improved flight characteristics. Over time, advancements allowed for the elimination of layered rubber cores, resulting in the widely used 2-piece balls today.

Presently, the modern golf ball is categorized by the number of cores they have, and their composition is carefully engineered for different performance advantages. For example, Titleist Pro V1's are 3-piece balls, but their premium materials set them apart. Throughout history, golf ball design has aimed to increase distance and provide better control around the green. This won't stop golfers from blaming the ball or talking to it out on the golf course.

Why is Golf Ball Design Important?

Golf ball design is crucial because it directly impacts a golfer's performance and overall experience on the course. Here are some key reasons why golf ball design is essential:

• Distance and Accuracy: A well-designed golf ball can significantly affect the distance a golfer can achieve with their shots. Factors like core compression, cover materials, and dimple patterns influence the ball's flight characteristics and aerodynamics, leading to greater distance and improved accuracy.
• Spin Control: The ability to control the spin of a golf ball is essential, especially for approach shots and shots around the green. Golf ball design, including the cover material and dimple pattern, plays a vital role in determining the amount of spin a golfer can generate.
• Greenside Control: Premium golf balls with specific cover materials, such as urethane, offer better greenside control, allowing golfers to execute delicate shots with more precision and spin.
• Feel and Feedback: Golf ball design affects the overall feel of the ball when struck. Some golfers prefer a softer feel, while others prefer a firmer feel. The feedback a golfer receives from the ball at impact is essential for evaluating the quality of their shots.
• Swing Speed and Compression: Golf balls are designed with different compression levels to suit golfers with varying swing speeds. Matching the right compression to a golfer's swing speed can optimize ball flight and distance.
• Player Skill Level: Golf ball design takes into account the skill level of the intended user. For example, high-handicap golfers may benefit from a ball with a focus on distance and forgiveness, while low-handicap golfers may prefer a ball that offers more control and workability.
• Weather Conditions: Golf balls designed for different weather conditions can help golfers adapt to varying environments. Some balls are specifically engineered to perform well in hot or cold temperatures or in windy conditions.
• Brand Differentiation: Golf ball manufacturers continuously innovate to differentiate their products in a competitive market. Unique features and technologies in golf ball design can attract golfers seeking specific performance advantages.
• Overall Enjoyment: Playing with a golf ball that suits a golfer's preferences and game style enhances the overall enjoyment of the sport. Golfers tend to have more confidence and satisfaction when using a ball that fits their needs.
• Advancement in Technology: As golf ball design evolves, advancements in materials, aerodynamics, and manufacturing processes lead to improved performance, which benefits golfers of all skill levels.

Golf Ball Manufacturing Process - Step by Step

The golf ball manufacturing process involves several steps to create the final product. While there may be variations in the process based on the type and design of the ball, here is a general step-by-step overview:

1. Core Formation:
   • The manufacturing process begins with the creation of the core. For two-piece golf balls, this core is typically a solid rubber sphere.
   • Rubber compounds, usually polybutadiene or a blend of synthetic rubbers, are mixed with other additives to achieve the desired compression and feel characteristics.
2. Core Molding:
   • The rubber mixture is shaped into a spherical core using a process called compression molding or injection molding.
   • In compression molding, the rubber is placed into a mold, and pressure and heat are applied to form the core shape.
   • Injection molding involves injecting the rubber mixture into a mold to shape the core.
3. Mantle Layer (for multi-layer balls):
   • For multi-layer golf balls, an intermediate layer called the mantle may be added between the core and the cover.
   • The mantle is made of different materials and can vary in thickness to provide specific performance attributes, such as spin and distance.
4. Cover Material Preparation:
   • The cover material, which is typically urethane or surlyn, is prepared separately.
   • The material is mixed with other additives to achieve the desired hardness, durability, and feel.
5. Cover Molding:
   • The cover material is molded into two half-shells using injection molding or compression molding techniques.
   • The dimple pattern is also created on the inside of each half-shell during this stage.
6. Core Encapsulation:
   • For multi-layer balls, the core is placed within one half of the cover shell.
   • If a mantle layer is used, it is placed on top of the core in this step.
   • The other half-shell is then placed on top, enclosing the core and mantle (if applicable) within the cover.
7. Cover Bonding:
   • The two cover half-shells are fused together by applying heat and pressure to create a seamless and durable bond.
8. Finishing and Trimming:
   • The golf balls are then trimmed to remove any excess material and achieve uniformity in size and weight.
9. Painting and Printing:
   • The golf balls are painted and printed with brand logos, model names, and other markings.
   • High-quality golf balls may also have alignment aids or personalization options.
10. Quality Control and Inspection:

• The finished golf balls undergo rigorous quality control checks to ensure they meet the manufacturer's standards for performance, consistency, and appearance.

11. Packaging and Distribution:

• The golf balls are packaged and ready for distribution to retailers and consumers.

What Are the Different Types of Golf Balls?

There are several different types of golf balls available on the market, each designed to cater to specific playing styles, skill levels, and performance preferences. The main types of golf balls are:

1. Two-Piece Golf Balls:
   • Two-piece golf balls are the most common and widely used type of golf ball.
   • They consist of a solid rubber core and a durable cover made of materials like surlyn.
   • Two-piece balls are known for their distance and durability, making them popular among casual and high-handicap golfers.
2. Multi-Layer Golf Balls:
   • Multi-layer golf balls have three or more layers in their construction, including a core, mantle layer(s), and a cover.
   • The core is typically made of rubber, and the mantle layers are designed to optimize spin, control, and distance.
   • These balls offer a balance of distance, feel, and control, making them suitable for a wide range of golfers, including mid-handicap players.
3. Tour-Level Golf Balls:
   • Tour-level golf balls are premium offerings designed for advanced players, including professionals and low-handicap golfers.
   • They feature urethane covers, which provide excellent spin, control, and feel around the greens.
   • Tour-level balls are known for their performance in terms of distance, accuracy, and shot shaping.
4. Distance Golf Balls:
   • Distance golf balls are engineered to maximize distance off the tee.
   • They often have a low-compression core and a harder cover to promote long shots and minimize spin.
   • These balls are suitable for golfers seeking added yardage without significant concern for greenside control.
5. Low-Compression Golf Balls:
   • Low-compression golf balls are designed for golfers with slower swing speeds.
   • Their soft core compresses easily, generating higher ball speeds and distance with slower swings.
   • These balls offer a softer feel and better control for players with slower swing velocities.
6. High-Compression Golf Balls:
   • High-compression golf balls are designed for golfers with faster swing speeds.
   • They have a firm core that resists compression, offering enhanced control and reduced spin for high-velocity swings.
7. Women's Golf Balls:
   • Some golf balls are specifically marketed to cater to women golfers.
   • These balls often have features like softer feel, low compression, and aesthetically pleasing designs.

It's key to choose a golf ball that matches your playing ability, swing speed, and personal preferences. Trying out different types and brands can help you find the ball that suits your game best.

What Are the Materials Used In The Golf Ball Manufacturing Process?

The manufacturing process of golf balls involves various materials to create the core, cover, and other components. The materials used in golf ball manufacturing can vary depending on the ball's design and intended performance characteristics. Here are some of the common materials used in the golf ball manufacturing process:

1. Core Materials:
   • Rubber: Synthetic rubber compounds, such as polybutadiene or synthetic rubber blends, are commonly used in the core to provide the ball's primary elasticity and resilience.
   • Thermoplastic Resins: Some modern golf balls use thermoplastic materials as part of the core to achieve specific performance attributes, such as high compression or a soft feel.
2. Cover Materials:
   • Urethane: Urethane covers are widely used in premium golf balls. Urethane provides a soft feel, high spin rates, and excellent greenside control. These covers are often found in tour-level and high-performance golf balls.
   • Surlyn: Surlyn covers, a type of ionomer resin, are used in many mid-range and distance-oriented golf balls. Surlyn covers are more durable and resistant to cuts and scuffs, making them suitable for recreational golfers seeking a balance of distance and durability.
   • Thermoplastic Urethane (TPU): Some golf balls may use a blend of urethane and thermoplastic materials to achieve specific performance characteristics.
3. Mantle Layers:
   • Some multi-layer golf balls have a mantle layer between the core and the cover. The materials used in the mantle can vary and are often designed to optimize spin, distance, and feel.
4. Dimple Pattern Coatings:
   • A golf ball's dimple pattern is critical for aerodynamics and flight characteristics. Some manufacturers use special coatings on the dimples to reduce drag and enhance performance.
5. Additional Additives:
   • Manufacturers incorporate additional additives or materials to fine-tune the golf ball's performance, such as fillers to adjust the ball's weight and balance.

How Long Do Golf Balls Last?

The lifespan of a golf ball can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality of the ball, frequency of use, storage conditions, and the golfer's playing style. Generally, golf balls can last for a significant amount of time, but their performance may gradually deteriorate over extended periods. Here are some considerations for the lifespan of golf balls:

• Quality of the Golf Ball: Higher-quality golf balls, such as premium tour-level balls, are often more durable and maintain their performance characteristics longer than lower-quality balls. They are designed to withstand more shots and maintain their performance over time.
• Frequency of Use: Golf balls that are frequently used, especially during practice sessions and on rough terrain, may experience more wear and tear. Repeated impacts can lead to scuffs, scratches, and loss of performance.
• Storage Conditions: Proper storage can extend the lifespan of golf balls. Keeping them in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures and humidity, can help preserve their performance.
• Playing Style: Golfers with high swing speeds or those who regularly hit shots with excessive spin might wear out their golf balls faster than those with slower swing speeds or a smoother playing style.
• Damage: Golf balls can become damaged due to hitting trees, cart paths, or other hard surfaces. Such impacts can affect the ball's performance and durability.
• Water Exposure: If golf balls spend a significant amount of time submerged in water (e.g., water hazards), they may absorb moisture and lose performance characteristics.

As a general guideline, golf balls used in normal play can last anywhere from several rounds to several months, depending on the factors mentioned above. Golfers should regularly inspect their golf balls for signs of damage, scuffs, or significant wear, as this can impact the ball's flight and feel. If you notice any considerable changes in performance or visible damage, it may be time to replace the golf ball.

For serious golfers or those playing in tournaments, it's common to switch out golf balls more frequently to ensure they are in optimal condition and perform consistently throughout the round. For recreational players, using golf balls until they show signs of significant wear or damage is generally acceptable.

What Is The Difference Between Soft And Hard Golf Balls?

The difference between soft and hard golf balls primarily lies in their feel, compression, spin rates, and overall performance characteristics. These differences can significantly affect a golfer's game and are often a matter of personal preference. Here's a breakdown of the key distinctions between soft and hard golf balls:

• Feel:
  • Soft Golf Balls: Soft golf balls have a softer cover and core construction, which results in a more pleasing and gentle feel when struck. Many golfers prefer the soft feel as it provides a sense of control and feedback at impact.
  • Hard Golf Balls: Hard golf balls, on the other hand, have a firmer cover and core, giving a firmer feel when hit. Some golfers prefer this firmer sensation for a perceived sense of distance and responsiveness.
• Compression:
  • Soft Golf Balls: Soft golf balls typically have lower compression, meaning the core is more easily compressed upon impact. These balls are ideal for golfers with slower swing speeds, as they allow for more compression and distance with slower swings.
  • Hard Golf Balls: Hard golf balls have higher compression, making them more suitable for golfers with faster swing speeds. The firmer core allows for less compression, which can result in more distance for higher swing speeds.
• Spin Rates:
  • Soft Golf Balls: Soft golf balls tend to produce more spin, especially around the greens. This increased spin can provide better control and stopping power on approach shots and short game shots.
  • Hard Golf Balls: Hard golf balls typically produce lower spin rates, which can lead to more roll-out on the fairways and less spin around the greens. They might be preferred by golfers who want a more penetrating ball flight.
• Distance:
  • Soft Golf Balls: Soft golf balls are not known for maximizing distance off the tee, especially for players with higher swing speeds. However, they can provide better overall control and precision.
  • Hard Golf Balls: Hard golf balls are often associated with greater distance due to their lower spin rates and higher compression. They may be favored by golfers seeking maximum distance.
• Green-side Control:
  • Soft Golf Balls: Soft golf balls generally offer better greenside control due to their ability to generate more spin, allowing golfers to stop the ball more quickly on the green.
  • Hard Golf Balls: Hard golf balls may be more challenging to control around the greens, as their lower spin rates make it harder to stop the ball quickly.

Last Updated on February 2, 2024 by Matt Greene
*Read our review guidelines.

Best Irons for Mid Handicap Golfers 2024

The Srixon ZX5 MkII stood out after hitting them and playing them on the course. They are a decent upgrade from the ZX5 with much better looks but the same top of the line materials and feel.

Turf interaction: The sole of the club is shaped with a slight 'V' shape and that is what makes it a winner in my eyes. The interaction with the ground is the best I have found.

When you hit a shot, the leading edge of the ZX5 will first enter the grass and the bottom of the sole (the bottom of the V) will bounce off the turf beneath the ball. You can actually feel that small action as the club glides right through the turf instead of digging. 

Looks and feel: At address, my eyes saw minimal offset and I found the top line was in the middle of the blade and super game improvement thickness. When I look at them in the bag, I can't tell if they are game improvement or players cavity back.

The clubs felt soft to me and that is because Srixon use some of the softest materials and forge almost all of their irons. Something to note is that there is a tungsten insert in the toe of the the 3 iron down to 7 iron while in the 8 iron down to approach wedge, the grooves are deeper and narrower to increase spin. 

Accuracy and performance: When I mis-hit shots badly with the MK2 irons, I noticed the ball lost only a few yards. If the strikes was just off the sweet spot, toward the toe, I noticed almost not difference in distances. On both good and bad strikes, the ball travelled straighter than I expected especially compared to my blade irons. 

One small issue I found was that when I hit one very sweet, the ball went much further than my stock distance, sometimes putting me in a hazard or a bunker 10-20 yards past the target. 

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The Launcher XL irons are the upgrade to my prior favorites, the near perfect Cleveland Launcher UHX. I've recommended the UHX to 8 friends, who all game them and I will continue to recommend the Launcher iron range for casual golfers, not looking to become scratch golfers.

Look and feel: The Launcher XL are in fact very large club heads. When i place the club head behind the ball, it's obvious that the main purpose of the Launchers is Game Improvement. The club heads are also much longer than most other irons and it's noticeable at address which gives you a lot of surface area to hit the ball with. 

Cleveland include the loft on the bottom of the club to help us stop being attached to the number iron you are hitting, and more understanding of the loft that creates that distance. Cleveland is owned by the parent company which owns Srixon, so the Cleveland Launcher irons also feature a V-shaped sole. These clubs did not dig into the ground when I played them. 

Accuracy and performance: The extra surface area on the club face means that on off-center hits, you don't get punished as much as a smaller head.  There is a progressive design in the iron, which means the 4 iron to 7 iron have a hollow body and the short irons are cavity backs.

Hollow body clubs are designed to reduce the shock and poor performance of mis-hits. I actually kept the 4 iron in my bag with my usual set because it was so much easier to hit. The cavity back short irons are jus as easy to hit. 

Distance was much longer than most irons I tried. I was around 10 yards longer on average compared to other models on the list. It is partially because of lower lofts, but Cleveland are known for making irons that travel higher despite lower lofts and that is what I noticed. My friends who play the Launcher models all notice much softer landings on the greens. 

Conclusion: Any time a mid handicapper friend asks me for recommendations on new irons, I have to gauge how much golf they play and their expectations. The Cleveland Launcher series is perfect for a golfer who is between a 10 and 18 handicap who plays around 4 times a month without any ambitions of being a scratch golfer.  

These irons are fun to hit, and help you enjoy your weekly game of golf more than most sets on this list. 

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As always, Mizuno forged golf irons are buttery soft and while the new JPX 923 look like a forgiving muscle back , they are actually a cavity back. I was not a fan of the prior JPX 919 and I resold them after 5 rounds but the JPX 923 upgrade improved on them. The 923 version feels higher quality on off-center hits and center hits really feel soft compared to the 919.

Look and feel: The look of the Mizuno JPX923 is similar to the prior JPX919 model and with minimal colors, combined with matte finish, they are easily the best looking iron on the list. They have the look of PGA Tour professional clubs with more forgiving and bigger clubs heads in the long irons moving into more compact shorter irons for precision shots. 

There is a very small offset to the clubs for added forgiveness. 

Accuracy and performance: The sole of the Mizuno has a more U-shaped appearance for less digging in the turf interaction in a similar way to the Srixon ZX5. In my experience with the clubs, there is almost no difference between them and the Srixon ZX5. 

Conclusion: You'll be able to shape the ball both ways with these. There are a lot of mid handicappers who were once single figures who still like a fade or draw into a tight pin. It's fun to shape shots if you can.

For high-mid handicappers, I would suggest the Hot Metal version because the sweet spot has been moved lower in the face specifically to help inconsistent striking.

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Performance data of mid handicap irons

We tested the irons in the review using a mid handicap golfer with a moderate swing speed (98 mph with the driver). We used a Trackman bay with a 7 iron from each set of irons. You will notice the lofts range from 26.5° to 32° which will make a drastic difference to carry distances. 

How to select alternative mid handicap irons

My method for selecting irons for mid handicappers

My foolproof method to select golf clubs goes like this:

1. Pick the irons that look best to you. How do you like the sole, the top line and the offset? You must love how the irons look immediately. It's very difficult to 'learn to love your irons and when you hit them badly, you'll start to hate them. Pick the irons you LOVE the look of.
2. Then how do they when you place the irons look behind the ball? 80% of your decision comes from the first two steps and that is just how powerful the looks are.
3. The next 10% of the decision comes down how does the club feel in your hands? Waggle the club, feel the weight and take a swing with no ball. Does it make you feel great? 
4. Hitting the ball with the irons completes the process. Why only 10%? If you don't like the look of the clubs, the feel of the clubs and the weight of the clubs, it doesn't matter how well you hit them. You'll give up on them in the future. If you love the look, feel and weight, your fitter can make the irons work with your swing to get a good strike.

Hit the golf clubs, preferably outdoors but indoors works too.

• Is the trajectory of the shots low, medium or high? Pick the flight that works for you.
• Does the club make your bad shot worse? If you fade, does the iron make you fade MORE? 
• Does the club help to straighten your ball flight?
• Do you need more height, spin or distance? It can be difficult to get all 3 in one set but with a fitting, you can get at least 2 out of your 3 priorities. 
• Hit the irons and gauge how many shots you hit from the center of the face. Do you feel a sweet strike more often than any other set?
• If you mis-hit the ball, did you notice big performance changes or minor? Pick what you need from your set.

Other considerations for your iron set

Price

Every large brand name club companies make golf irons for mid handicappers and they price their irons between $750 and $1500. 

Boutique brands like Takomo provide high quality clubs at less than $650 per set. Pick the budget you need and understand that boutique brands create clubs in the same factories as the big name manufacturers, but do not spend many on sponsorships and wasteful adverts.

The big name manufacturers price their clubs so high because they sponsor pros and produce tens of thousands of sets at one time, so they need to make sure even if many go unsold, they make a profit.

Type of club head design and material

Forged vs Cast irons

1. Forged - the factory stamps the club head out of a single piece of soft steel.

2. Cast - the factory pours liquid metal alloy into a mold and the alloy sets hard.

Muscle back vs cavity back

1. Muscle back blade - Traditional iron heads with most of the steel mass behind the sweet spot, without any cavity back. You may struggle to hit muscle back or blade irons initially but with a lot of practice, you can find the sweet spot. You will receive a lot more feedback on your shots with a blade iron because when you hit it bad, you can feel it.

2. Cavity back - cavity backs are blades without the mass behind the sweet spot. The manufacturers grind out a cavity in the back of the club, to redistribute the excess steel to the perimeter of the iron. The cavity backs are much easier to hit than blades and a recreational mid handicap will enjoy the forgiveness that they offer. 

I recommend mid handicap golfers play with cavity back irons, preferably forged because a fitter can bend forged irons to fit your lie angle without breaking the club. The cast iron can be bent only one time. The second attempt cracks the club.

How to pick the shafts for your iron set

Shaft flex dominates as the key factor to consider when you purchase a new set of irons. Which flex you use can change your ball flight drastically.

The actual flex of each shaft will vary between shaft manufacturers because no standard flex ranking scale exists. I consulted Tour fitter and expert club builder, Eric Chong of Impact Golf Malaysia about iron shafts to get his insights.

In his 20 years of fitting clubs Eric finds that:

• Slow swing speeds should use softer flex shafts
• High swing speeds should use a firmer flex shaft

Which flex shaft is right for you?

These flexes are ranked from stiffest (firmest) to softest (most flexible)

• Extra Stiff (X): When you swing your driver faster than 105 mph
• Stiff (S): When your driver swing speed reaches between 90 and 100 mph
• Regular (R): The average golfer will use a regular shaft and is the most popular
• Senior (SR): When your swing speed with the driver dips below 80 mph
• Ladies Flex (L): Ladies generally swing slower than men so there is a specific shaft for them

Eric points out that the shaft you select needs to match your tempo and transition more than your swing speed. He recommends to always get a fitting with a qualified club fitter to ensure you play the perfect equipment for YOU.

You can even change your trajectory, distance and even your ball flight shape with the correct shaft.

How to select the shaft material steel or graphite

Steel or graphite shafts dominate the market. You will see mostly steel shafts in the bags of golfers at the local course.

Graphite shafts are less popular but there is no recommendation from me or Eric on this because it would be irresponsible to recommend without seeing your swing.

Graphite can be a little more expensive but because they are often lighter, they can increase your club head speed. 

The best option is to try some clubs with graphite and steel shafts in them. More than likely, you will prefer a steel shaft.

Best irons for a 20 handicap

A 20 handicap should play forgiving irons like deep cavity back irons with lightweight shafts like the XXIO 12 irons.

Best irons for a 10 handicap

The best irons for a 10 handicap are cavity back irons like the Ping G430 irons because a 10 handicaps average score is around 87 so his ball striking needs improvement. A 10 handicap would benefit from the Ping G430 because they provide ample forgiveness which will leave him on the green or around the green with ease.

Best irons for a 15 handicap

The best irons for a 15-handicap are the TaylorMade Stealth irons because they launch high, travel far and are the easiest to hit to break 90. A 15 handicapper averages a score over 90 and he needs most help to hit fewer terrible shots. Stealth irons can help him avoid catastrophic holes on the golf course because they are so forgiving. 

When should I switch to blades?

When a golfer can hit the center of the blade club face at least 7 out of 10 times, they can change their irons to blade irons. If you can hit the center of the club face on a blade iron 7 out of 10 times, don't forget about players cavity back irons. Players cavity back irons are slightly more forgiving than blades and perform identically out the sweet spot. 

What are best irons for average or intermediate golfers?

In my expert opinion, the best irons for the average or intermediate golfer are the Takomo 201 irons because they are forged, high quality heads with top of the line KBS Tour shafts at a price below $700.

Conclusion

The Srixon ZX5 Mk II iron is my number one pick for mid handicappers because of the high quality shafts and steel used in the heads. The Takomo 201 is a close second because both of these iron sets are made of forged steel, with extremely high quality KBS and Nippon shafts.

The materials used by both companies are top of the line. 

Thanks for reading my review and comparison of the best irons for mid handicappers and average golfers in 2024.

Last Updated on February 4, 2024 by Matt Greene

Blade irons are generally golf clubs that pro golfers and low handicappers use. They provide more control of the ball flight than a cavity back for the skilled golfer, but are much less forgiving because of the small club head and tiny sweet spot.

Cavity back irons have a larger club head design to improve consistency when you miss the center of the club face. Club designers cut out a cavity in the back of the club and move the excess steel to the perimeter of the club head, increasing the size of the sweet spot, for extra forgiveness.

Cavity back irons usually have a wide sole, a big club face and some offset to make hitting the ball easier for every skill level especially golfers with higher handicaps. Blade irons have minimal offset, a thin top line and a very small club head. 

Biggest differences between blade and cavity backs

The biggest difference you will notice when you hit a blade and cavity back is that a cavity back has much more forgiveness on off-center strikes. 

Forgiveness

Forgiveness refers to the clubs ability to give you a relatively straight shot with decent distance even though you missed the center of the club face. Blade irons physically hurt you when you mis-hit them. You feel shockwaves through your hands and arms on off-center hits. You lose a lot of distance like this and the result of your shot is much worse than you planned. 

Cavity back irons have a much bigger sweet spot than the blade, so if you miss the dead center of the face, it will steel feel quite good in your hands and arms. You can miss the sweet spot by a much bigger margin and still get a good result from your shot. 

Why is it 'easier' to hit a cavity back?

The forgiveness of a golf club is determined by 3 important factors, working in unison to make a golf club easier to hit.

Forgiveness factor 1: Bigger sweet spot

Cavity back irons have a thin face with a lot of metal around the edges, called perimeter weighting. They originate from a blade iron, but the sweet spot on a blade iron is the size of a penny on the club face. You need to strike the ball within fractions of an inch of the sweet spot to hit a shot that feels good.

To make it easier to hit the clubs, designers drill out a cavity in the back of the club and place the extra materials that they remove, around the edges of the club instead which is called perimeter weighting. This creates a thinner club face (more trampoline-like) and lowers the center of gravity to make a more forgiving club. The sweet spot size is much bigger in a cavity back. 

Forgiveness factor 2: Offset

On most cavity back irons, the heel and leading edge of the club is placed behind the hosel and shaft. The distance between the heel and the hosel is called the offset. Club manufacturers use offset to help golfers hit the golf ball with a square club face, improving the chances of a straighter flight.

The offset moves the club head’s center of gravity back from the shaft, which helps create a higher ball flight. 

Most clubs will have a little offset, but you will find more offset in cavity back irons in the game improvement sets. The game improvement cavity backs are aimed at higher handicaps. As skill level and ball striking improves, you might find you need less offset to help you hit the ball straighter.

Forgiveness factor 3: Sole of the club

Blade irons have a very narrow and sharp sole. Golfers who play blades are expected to get the timing correct of the golf club entering the turf at the golf ball. If you hit the ground before the ball, the blade iron will dig into the ground. We call that a fat shot.

The cavity back irons often have much thicker, wider soles to prevent this digging. The bad shot for less skilled ball strikers is to hit fat shots. Wider soles on the cavity back irons prevent the digging that you find in blade irons. 

You will find the biggest difference between the blade and cavity back sole-turf interaction on a golf course that is slightly wet. The blade will get stuck in the wet turf while the cavity back will glide through the ground without getting stuck. 

Summary of iron forgiveness factors

My Youtube video on cavity back and blade irons

My video has had over 100k views on this topic. Check it out below. 

What is a cavity back iron?

Game improvement cavity back

Players cavity back

Not all cavity backs are aimed at high handicap or beginner golfers. There is a category called players cavity backs and they have been made for better ball strikers. 

Players cavity backs have much less offset, a thinner top line and a thinner sole. There is a marked increase in forgiveness from a traditional blade. There are low to mid handicappers playing irons that look like blades but want to enjoy good shots on their mis-hits. The payers cavity back should be played by people who can hit the ball in the center 6-7 out of 10 times. 

Who should play cavity back irons?

Almost every golfer over a scratch handicap 'should' play cavity back. A players cavity back will more then likely benefit a low handicap more than a set of blades. The main reason non-elite golfers play blades is ego. 

If you struggle to hit the sweet spot, or you do not play regularly, cavity back game improvement irons are 100% recommended to enjoy golf to the maximum. 

What is a blade iron?

Blade golf clubs are typically preferred by lower handicap golfers that can consistently hit the center of the club face. Please be aware that blades are also referred to in modern times as muscle back irons.

Blade irons are always forged from a single piece of metal. They have smaller club heads, thin soles and thin top lines - almost razor thin sometimes. There is a reason they are called blades. They look like knives!

A blade iron sacrifices forgiveness and instead promises a good ball striker, the ability to shape shots and control distance very effectively. Blades usually have 2-6 degrees more loft on the the club. A 7 iron in a cavity back set of irons might have 30 degrees of loft while in the blades, the loft of the 7 iron might be between 32 and 35 degrees.

Who should play blade irons?

PGA Tour pros, elite college golfers and low single digit handicap golfers will prefer blades. It is not completely based on handicap, but more on ball striking ability who should play blades. The key is to play blades only if you can hit the center of the face with consistency and regularity. I would estimate you should be able to hit the sweet spot at least 7 out of 10 times, preferably 8 or 9 times. 

What is a split or blended set?

There are iron sets available that combine the precision of the blades with the forgiveness of the cavity backs. These sets usually contain BLADE 8 iron, 9 iron and pitching wedge. 7 iron, 6 iron and 5 iron in the blended set will be CAVITY BACK.

Most people have trouble hitting the longer irons (4-5-6-7), so these split sets help decent ball strikers to get the ball closer to the target with the longer clubs and be really mercenary on approach shots with the short irons. 

When should you switch from cavity backs to blades?

Personally I changed from cavity back to muscle back blades when I was confident I could hit the center of the face 8 or 9 times out of ten. I was playing to a 5 handicap at the time and when i switched to blades, I dropped to a scratch handicap within a few months.

These factors will determine when to switch from cavity back to blades:

1. You hit the center of the club face at least 7 out of 10 times
2. Well struck cavity backs are not providing consistent distance control on approach shots
3. You NEED to shape your golf shots (be honest with yourself if you really need to)
4. Your turf conditions are firm and the wide soles of cavity backs is causing thin shots
5. You are able to enter the turf at the golf ball, not behind the ball

When to NOT play blades

Do not listen to people who tell you that the only way to learn to hit the ball properly is with blades and that cavity back or game improvement irons will not help because they just cover up your flaws. These people do not know anything about golf. 

The idea is to want to continue playing golf. How do you do that? You hit nice shots and feel good hitting them. Blades are very difficult to master especially at the beginning of your journey. First get the ball airborne, then do it a lot, and once you are super confident in the way you strike the ball, try blades. Keep in mind, that it may take years and years to get to that confidence level.  

Why do I hit blades better than cavity backs?

The reason you might hit blades better than cavity backs is because you have excellent hand-eye co-ordination or excellent swing fundamentals. Usually people who have played bat-and-ball sports in their lives are able to find the sweet spot in almost any object. The blade iron is no exception and if you find that you hit blades better than cavities, you should play them until you find you no longer can. 

There is no hard and fast rule that you MUST play one or the other. Use your best judgement that will create the most enjoyable golf for you. 

Which are cast or forged irons?

Cavity backs are often cast irons which means liquid metal alloy is poured into a mould and left to set. You will most often find cast cavity back in the super game improvement iron category and beginner category. There are occasionally higher end models which are cast but it is rare. The feeling of a cast iron is often a bit firmer than the forged clubs but the sweet spots are always the same size - large.

Cavity back can also be made of forged steel which means the club is stamped out of a single piece of soft metal. They are usually the higher end models aimed more toward people who are playing regularly. Forged steel is much softer in feeling when you hit the golf ball. Regular golfers want a softer feel as they gain more experience on the course. 

Note: If you need different lie angles in your irons, cast irons can be bent perhaps one time. If you bend the lie angle a second time, it will crack. Forged irons can be bent back and forth almost without limit. The steel is softer and malleable. 

Blade irons are ALWAYS forged. They are often the most premium set in the ranges of the top manufacturers. 

Summary

Thank you for allowing me to clarify the differences between blades cavity back irons. I would almost always recommend golfers play cavity backs but the choice is always yours. Take into account the things important to you on the golf course and you can't go wrong.

Just remember be honest with yourself, because you will be the golfer playing the clubs! Picking the right one should be easier for you now. 

Owner, Creator and Founder of Golf Sidekick
Expertise specialties: Club testing, golf video tutorials, golf training aid testing, golf ball testing.
Socials: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Youtube

Who is Matt from Golf Sidekick

• The most trusted Youtube golfer for information that actually helps you score. The Golf Sidekick Youtube channel has over 230,000 subcribers.
• Played golf for over 25 years, learning course management, scoring low, the mental game and particularly the short game.
• Founder & Owner of Golf Sidekick.
• The number one Lithuanian and South African golf Youtuber in the world. Follow the channel for more info on scoring low, having more fun and breaking your scoring barrier.
• Ambassador of Waddaplaya Golf.
• Extensive hands-on testing of golf clubs, balls and bags since 2014, contributing to the trust in, credibility and reliability of Golf Sidekick content.

Experience

With nearly three decades of constantly striving for a better game on and off the course, Matt is the quintessential golf nerd. From trying to figure this game out for himself with magazines and VHS tapes, to seeking professional help from coaches like Michele Low, Eric Chong and Graeme Whale. 

He developed his skill in player analysis by observing every playing partner, from plus-handicappers and pros to mid and high handicappers. He has video journaled countless golfers journeys on his Youtube channel, Golf Sidekick. The Golf Sidekick channel has had over 50 million views, helping hundreds of thousands realize their true golfing potential.

What sets Matt apart is his constant dedication to hands-on testing. Since 2014, he has undertaken rigorous evaluations of golf clubs, balls and bags providing the core of Golf Sidekicks trusted recommendations. This methodical approach means that readers get the most accurate, reliable and trustworthy insights when making decisions about their golf equipment.

Matt keeps a close relationship with 15 to 20 golfers and golf equipment experts to provide the most current information with industry insider knowledge. He not only tests and writes about golf gear, but he also creates golf video tutorials on every aspect of the game. His wide network of coaches, expert fitters like Eric Chong, as well as amateur golfers playing the equipment he writes about makes Matt a unique expert in the field. 

Such a collaborative approach is what puts the Golf Sidekick team at the tip of the spear in golfing expertise. 

Golf History and Journey

I started playing golf at the age of 12, when my friend and I took his dads golf clubs to the local executive course. Executive is a strong word because it was nothing more than a cow pasture with some dodgy greens cut out of it. You can see the first course I ever played in the video below. It's been upgraded in the 20 years since I first played it!

I always played cheap golf clubs or hand-me-downs from my dad's friends. I was pretty broke as a kid so i had to learn to strike persimmon woods properly to be able to compete with people playing steel headed clubs. 

I mainly played with mid handicap older guys growing up. They were always at the course and as a junior, it meant a reliable weekday game. As I got older, I played with more low and mid handicappers around my age. Nowadays, I play with everyone, and particularly low mid and high handicappers because it's so easy for them to cut some shots from their game. 

That is how i developed all my guides - by playing with actual golfers, using the equipment and learning from professionals as well as equipment experts/fitters.

For the last 15+ years I have been between a scratch and 5 handicap or so handicap. My swing was really good once, but as I spent hours, days, weeks and years behind a computer screen, my body dictated a newer, less athletic swing. Luckily I have good hands to save the day!

Golf Sidekick was a site and Youtube channel born out of an idea to change peoples game using techniques on course, and better understanding of their equipment and how it improves their games.

Check out my popular How to Break 90 video:

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Matt Greene
*Read our review guidelines.

Sunday Golf Loma Pencil Bag

Why we like it:

• Specialist golf bag manufacturer in the small bag market - premium and built to last
• The lightest bag at 2 lbs in weight 
• Full length legs make it easy to access clubs without needing to bend down
• The widest color selection in the pencil bag market
• Velour lined valuables pocket for your keys, wallet and phone
• Cooler pouch to keep the drinks cold

What you need to know: The Loma pencil golf bag comfortably carries 6-7 clubs and is a specialist pencil bag from the leading minimalist golf bag manufacturer in the world. The strap is only a single strap. 

The Loma XL version may be more appropriate if you want a bag for more than the pitch and putt course or driving range.

Titleist Premium Carry Pencil bag 

Why we like it:

• The apparel pocket is full length for plenty of jacket and hat storage
• Lightweight only 3 lbs in weight 
• Mini legs are unique and keep the bag from lying totally on the ground
• The bag can actually fit 14 clubs
• External water bottle pocket for easy access while walking
• With no clubs in the bag, you can fold it, and store it under your car seat

What you need to know: The bag has no support to inside the fabric and is a true pencil bag. If you try stand it upright, the bag will fold over. You rest the bag on the ground and the top area of the bag is propped up by a mini stand, only a few inches off the turf. The stand is not like normal golf stand bags.

Cobra Ultralight Pencil Bag

Mizuno BR D2 Quiver Bag

Conclusion

They make the perfect bag for a quick nine holes, a practice session, or make it easy to play a half set. The balance between functionality and aesthetics, storage and simplicity, makes these bags great alternatives to bringing the big bag everywhere all the time.

In the end, the choice of the best pencil golf bag comes down to your playing style. Whether you're a proper walking golfer, a casual enthusiast, or in need of a bag for the driving range, pencil golf bags offer you options that can elevate your game, lighten your load, and help chill you out on the course.

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Matt Greene
*Read our review guidelines.

Vice Pro Plus

Direct to consumer value for a premium golf ball

Reasons to buy

Titleist Pro V1

The king of the golf ball market

Reasons to buy

Kirkland Signature

Yes, they're from CostCo and yes, they're good

Reasons to buy

Callaway Chrome Soft

Soft like butter and they spin a lot - nice.

Reasons to buy

TaylorMade TP5 Pix

The best looking high spin golf ball you can get

Reasons to buy

The verdict: Best golf balls for spin

When it comes to the best golf balls for spin, the Vice Pro Plus is a strong contender. These golf balls are designed to deliver exceptional spin, especially on approach shots and around the green. They offer a soft feel and precise control, making them a great choice for golfers who want to finesse their short game. The Vice Pro Plus golf balls provide a good balance between spin and durability, all at a reasonable price, offering excellent value for money. If you're seeking to enhance your spin and control without breaking the bank, these balls are a solid option for your game.

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Matt Greene
*Read our review guidelines.

Srixon Soft Feel Golf Balls

The best golf ball for beginners to move from used balls

Kirkland Signature Golf Balls

Cheap premium golf ball for any golfer even beginners

Callaway Warbird Golf Balls

A simple pick for beginners for maximum distance

Titleist TruFeel Golf Ball

Great overall ball for medium swing speeds

Volvik Vivid Golf Ball

Best ball for finding in the rough

Wilson Tour Velocity

Best low compression golf ball for beginners

Worst golf balls for beginners

The worst golf balls for beginners are expensive, tour quality golf balls such as Titleist Pro V1, Callaway Chrome Soft and TaylorMade TP5 (unless they are cheap second hand).

Tour quality golf balls have been designed to spin a lot, and you need a high level of skill to use them. Without the necessary skill, the premium balls will actually be worse for a beginners game.  High spin urethane balls will fly further left and right than the cheaper, 2 piece golf balls.

Losing balls as a beginner is common and when you lose a $4 or $5 golf ball, you dread hitting more shots because you don't want to waste more money every time a ball flies into the water or OB. That is not the way to have maximum fun. Buy cheap balls that you can accept losing and you will keep playing this game for a long time.

How many golf balls should you take for 18 holes?

Beginner golfers should take as many golf balls to the course as can fit in their bag. I would recommend taking 2 balls per hole as a beginner so a total of 36 balls for 18 holes or 18 balls for 9 holes. You can lose a lot at some golf courses, so it's better to be prepared.

I highly recommend buying a huge bag of 72 golf balls second hand and hacking away at those at the early stages of your golfing career. 

Conclusion: What are the best golf balls for a beginner?

The best golf balls for beginners are the Srixon Soft Feels or the Callaway Warbirds. 

I would recommend always looking for second hand ball deals. They are everywhere on Amazon or eBay. From there, you will experience many kinds of golf balls and you'll get a feeling from the second hand ones, which you prefer.  

Seek advice, practice, and stay within your budget. Remember that golf is a journey – enjoy the process of learning and improving on the course.

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Matt Greene
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Cleveland Smart Sole 4 Wedge

You won't find an easier to hit sand wedge from any lie

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Titleist Vokey SM9 Sand Wedge

You can't go wrong with Vokey wedges

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TaylorMade MG3 Wedge

Always a contender - used by the best in the game

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Callaway Mack Daddy CB Wedge

Spin it like Phil Mickelson

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Cleveland RTX Zipcore Wedge

Best value premium wedge

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The verdict: Best 56 degree wedge

In our search for the best 56-degree wedge, one standout performer is the Cleveland Smart Sole 4. Ok it's a 58 degree technically, but with its game-improvement features, the Smart Sole 4 embraces a revolutionary design that excels in the short game arena. The advanced cavity back design and optimized sole grinds make this wedge deliver unparalleled forgiveness, allowing golfers to confidently tackle any lie or bunker.

The Smart Sole 4's Feel Balancing Technology enhances consistency, providing an impressive sense of control and precision on every shot. Its forgiving clubface and wider sole inspire newfound confidence, particularly for those seeking to simplify their short game.

For beginners and high handicappers aiming to elevate their scoring abilities, the Cleveland Smart Sole 4 emerges as a top-tier choice, blending innovation, forgiveness, and versatility. Elevate your short game to new heights with this exceptional 56-degree wedge, and enjoy more rewarding results on the greens.