With 2022 coming to a close, there are innumerable options available for the golfer in your life. Clubs, shoes, clothes, hats and books. It’s all a bit overwhelming.

We’re going to highlight a few intriguing options for this year’s holiday season through the new year. Some are appropriate based on the season, while others are just a bunch of fun.

Let’s take a look at some of the products available as 2022 moves into 2023.

Holderness & Bourne Ward sweater ($175 | Holderness & Bourne): This is my favorite sweater Holderness and Bourne makes. It’s incredibly versatile — I wore it to a wedding last weekend but have worn it on the golf course as well — as well as extraordinarily comfortable. Full send on pretty much all H&B sweaters (full disclosure: author is outfitted by Holderness & Bourne).

Prime Putt putting mat ($299 | Prime Putt): There are two things I love about this putting mat. The first is the quality of the turf. Prime Putt calls it “Tour-grade turf” and that’s the right way to describe it. Even when you put it on carpet, the ball rolls so well. The other is how easy it is to roll up and store. I’ve tried other putting mats that were a nightmare to keep in the home, and this one is the opposite of that. My kids cannot stop putting on it.

Ralph Lauren cashmere hooded sweater ($330 | Ralph Lauren): This is one of the more expensive products I’ve ever included in this gift guide, but I also cannot stop wearing this hoodie. It’s as comfortable as material gets and looks great in any and all environments. Light but warm, sharp but casual, the Ralph Lauren cashmere hooded sweater is a tremendous golf product.

TRUE All Day Ripstop ($220 | TRUE): I have yet to try a TRUE product I didn’t enjoy. These golf shoes are no different. They were “crafted to keep you moving comfortably when you opt outside while simultaneously leaving a light footprint on the planet,” and I think TRUE accomplished that goal here. Again, my favorite thing about TRUE is how versatile its products are. The shoes don’t look out of place when you wear them off the golf course and into a cofee shop or on a date. One shoe to rule them all, and TRUE is making a run at that.

Swiftwick Flite XT Zero Tab socks ($20 | Swiftwick): I’m always in need of better socks, and these Swiftwicks are a really solid product. They’re light but not too light (I don’t want to feel like I don’t have any socks on at all), and it’s easy to envision them lasting years and years. Swiftwick says they are good for fitness, running, golf and racket sports, and I’m sure that’s true but I enjoy them just as much for lounging around the house.

Seamus yardage book cover ($95 | Seamus): The Seamus products are all of the highest quality, and this yardage book cover is no different. Though Seamus makes a variety of yardage book and scorecard holders, the leather versions are certainly my favorite.

PGA Tour 2K23 (Price varies): The latest edition of PGA Tour from 2K offers more options than ever before. Whether entering MyCareer mode for an authentic PGA Tour experience, creating your own dream courses or competing in TopGolf activities, playing golf on a console has never been better. There are more controls and options than ever before, and you can even start from scratch with MyPlayer, which has new archetypes and skills along with licensed gear and apparel. You can even buy a bundle with NBA 2K23.

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Forgiveness, a high launch, a straight flight, and a soft landing are features of the 10 best irons for beginners.

In this guide, I reveal my top selections to help beginners increase their greens in regulation record and enjoy more scoring opportunities.

You’ll notice that every club on this list is considered a game improvement iron and carries a cavity-back design. Unless they are hybrids, then you will find a hollow body construction.

Either way, these golf clubs will mitigate the impact of off-center strikes to keep you in play and enjoying the game.

What to Look for in a Good Set of Irons as a Beginner

Low Center of Gravity (CG)

As a beginner, your top priority is getting your golf ball airborne consistently. The best equipment for the job is golf clubs that produce natural high launch to keep your ball airborne and traveling.

Irons with this ability typically contain a lower-than-usual center of gravity which sets you up for an increased launch. In addition, the high, consistent flight propels your ball to descend along a steeper angle biting aggressively into the green upon landing.

Enhanced Moment of Inertia (MOI)

Next, I recommend that beginners seek irons with advanced MOI, as this combats clubface twist during your swing to keep it square at impact. When your clubface remains perpendicular to the target through contact, you produce less sidespin and prompt a straighter shot.

Flexible Shaft

I find that slow swing speed and high handicap golfers perform best with flexible, graphite shafts. The added flex increases your whip into the golf ball at contact providing speed assistance for a powerful strike.

I suggest starting with a regular shaft to see how you perform with a stock option before looking at alternative flexes. If you launch a regular golf shaft too low, I recommend testing the performance of the senior golf shaft. However, should your low launch persist, consider a ladies’ flex shaft.

10 Best Beginner Golf Irons

1. Cleveland Launcher XL Halo – Overall Best Golf Irons For Beginners

Pros

• The high MOI design promotes straighter shots
• Generates rapid ball velocity
• Clean turf interaction
• Prompts a high launch
• It produces a soft landing

Cons

• These irons may cause faster swing speeds to balloon their shots
• Not the most attractive golf clubs

The Cleveland Launcher XL Halo irons stood out for me as the best beginner golf irons overall. I found their accurate shots, increased launch, and crisp turf interaction produced consistent ball flight and a soft landing on approach.

You’ll notice that these irons carry an extra large clubhead design which boosts its MOI for greater accuracy. This construction keeps your clubface from twisting during your swing to remain square through contact. As a result, you enjoy straighter shots.

I felt the impact of the Action Mass CB design because it bolstered the club stability at contact to maintain ball speed and spin. Furthermore, the Mainframe, which consists of A.I. designed variable face technology, produced rapid ball speed off the face.

Finally, you’ll find the V-shaped sole design propels your clubhead across the turf to prevent you from chunking your shots. As a result, it promotes a clean strike for optimal launch, flight, and distance.

2. Tour Edge Hot Launch C522  – Best Budget Set Of Irons For Beginners

Pros

• Super affordable
• Produces a high launch
• Dampens vibrations on off-center strikes
• Exceptional forgiveness
• Crisp turf interaction

Cons

• Some golfers may not appreciate the hybrids
• The set does not include a sand wedge, but you can acquire it separately

Tour Edge is renowned for creating easy launching, forgiving golf clubs at an affordable price and continues this theme with the Hot Launch C522. These irons earned my respect as the best budget set for beginners because of their soft feel, rapid ball velocity, high launch, and crisp turf interaction.

You’ll see that the C522 set includes a 4 and 5 hybrid instead of irons to provide a high, long, and direct approach shot. In addition, Tour Edge equipped these irons with wide soles. I found this produced crisp turf interaction and prevented my clubhead from digging into the earth.

Moreover, I appreciated the effort of the VIBRCOR technology, as it softened the blow on off-center hits and boosted friction on shots with short irons and wedges. You’ll notice that the added friction increases your spin rate on the smaller approach shots to help your ball stop rapidly.

I also enjoyed the power lofted setup, 360-degree undercut cavity backs, and toe-weighted design. These three features enhance my forgiveness, promoting consistently high shots and extending the sweet spot.

3. Cobra LTDX  – Most Forgiving Irons For High Handicappers

Pros

• Produces explosive ball speed
• Flexible clubface maintains ball velocity on low-face strikes
• Promotes direct flight
• Generates an enhanced spin rate in the mid and short irons
• The ball stops rapidly on approach

Cons

• The strong lofts of the higher irons may prove challenging for some to launch
• Offers reduced workability

Cobra is no stranger to creating value-for-money super game improvement irons for high handicappers. The LTDX irons carry a moderate price point, are built to deliver exceptional iron distance and optimized spin for a soft landing.

You’ll find that the LTDX range produces rampant ball velocity across the clubface thanks to its PWR-COR technology and PWRshell Face Design. In my experience, the two technologies complimented one another by increasing the clubface flex and the size of the active zone.

Besides impressive ball speed, I noticed these irons carry enhanced MOI, thanks to an 8-gram toe weight. The weight stabilized the clubhead during the swing and kept it square at contact, prompting straighter ball flight from the fairway.

Lastly, the CNC milled clubface and grooves delivered a superb performance in the mid and short irons. I noticed that the sharper grooves gripped into my golf ball cover and imparted increased spin for a drop and stop landing.

4. Wilson Launch Pad 2  – Highest Launching Irons For High Handicap Golfers

Pros

• Easy, high-launching irons
• Smooth turf interaction
• Contains an anti-scratch finish
• The mid and short irons promote a soft, rapid landing

Cons

• Some golfers will not care for the chunky, hybrid-style profile
• Not very affordable Wilson high handicap irons.

Beginners could also use a high launching set of irons to consistently get their ball airborne for a consistent distance. This year, the Wilson Launch Pad 2 irons stood out for me as the higher launching constructions, thanks to their extremely low CG, and super turf interaction.

You’ll notice that these Wilson irons feature less technology than other golf clubs, yet expert weight placement helps them compete. The engineers shifted the mass of the club low and back in the sole to ensure you produce a high launch and increased length.

A star feature of these irons is the optimized turf interaction sole, specifically built to help less skilled players. The design keeps your clubhead out of grass and prevents you from chunking your shots. It enabled me to make consistently clean contact with the ball for optimal launch, flight, and distance.

Lastly, I thought the engineers added a neat touch by applying the anti-scratch finish. Although it does not impact your game, it does keep your clubheads looking newer for longer.

5. Ping G425  – Straightest Irons

Pros

• They generate straighter ball flight
• Forgiving
• Prompts rampant ball speed
• Compact and appealing head design
• Water-repellant hydropearl chrome finish sheds moisture from the clubface

Cons

• The toe weight is not pretty, but they had to put it somewhere
• Limits your ability to shape golf shots

Ping G425 irons hit our shelves in 2021, but they stand firm against newly released competitor products. This year, the irons stood out as the straightest set I tested, thanks to their high MOI construction, escalated ball zip, and compact profile.

Most manufacturers opt for oversized clubheads to boost a golf iron MOI, but Ping had other ideas. The masters of game improvement equipment shortened the length of the blade from heel to toe, increasing stability and MOI.

I noticed it held well, restricting any urge to twist during my swing and encouraging a square clubface at contact. As a result, my shots were straighter than others, providing optimal accuracy.

Furthermore, you’ll enjoy a soft feel on all shots with the G425 irons, thanks to the presence of a multi-cavity badge. I felt the badge drowned vibrations from off-center strikes to shield my hands and soften the sensation.

Finally, the average yardage of the Ping G425 irons impressed me during testing. The variable face thickness design on these irons promoted rampant ball pace to help me reach the green on lengthy strikes.

6. Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal  – Most Stable Irons For High Handicappers

Pros

• Exceptional MOI
• Prompts rapid ball speed around the perimeter of the clubface
• Crisp acoustics
• Amplified feedback
• Forgiving

Cons

• Expensive for beginner irons
• Some golfers may prefer long irons instead of hybrids

The Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal irons claimed the crown for the most stable iron sets for high handicappers. They prevented ball speed and spin drop-off to deliver ideal lift, flight, and landing. In addition, they provide superb feedback, increased face flex, and COR.

The Hiroshima engineers opted for Mizunos famed Chromoly 4140M material for an exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio. You’ll find this stroke of genius enhances the club stability at impact for elevated MOI without harming flexibility.

Adding to the steadiness of these irons is a stability frame, which prevents clubface twist during your swing.

Next, I felt the Harmonic Impact Technology delivered generous feedback and acoustics but did not drown out vibrations on off-center strikes. Some players enjoy this feedback, but my hands do not appreciate the shocks.

Finally, I noticed that the seamless cup face and CORTECH design generated phenomenal ball pace and spin on every shot. The cup face design thins out the clubface around the perimeter for maximum velocity on off-center hits. You’ll find these components produce optimal distance and a soft landing.

7. Titleist T300  – Best Feel

Pros

• Offers a soft feel on all shots
• Produces a high launch
• Optimizes your COR
• Forgiving
• Generates explosive ball speed

Cons

• Expensive
• The strong lofted long irons may prove challenging for a slower swing speed to strike

The Titleist T300 irons show that the brand offers more than just the best balls in golf. These irons garnered my attention for their soft feel on every strike. Furthermore, they provided plenty of forgiveness, launched my golf ball high, and sent it long.

The enhanced polymer core stood out for me as the star performer. Titleist engineers positioned it between the clubface and the cavity to absorb shocks produced when you miss the sweet spot.

You’ll notice that the T300 irons do well to minimize ball speed and spin drop-off on heel and toe mishits. This is thanks to the Max Impact Technology, which escalates your COR across the clubface to carry your ball to the ideal length and land it softly.

Furthermore, I felt the results of the extra 40% of tungsten, as it prompted a consistently high launch. While slow swing speeds will appreciate this assistance, it can cause faster swingers to balloon their shots.

Lastly, when you test the Titleist T300 irons, you’ll experience explosive velocity off the clubface thanks to the variable face thickness design.

8. TaylorMade Stealth  – Fastest Ball Speed

Pros

• Escalates ball speed
• Promotes a high launch
• Soft feel
• Optimal forgiveness
• Enhanced MOI

Cons

• Premium price tag
• Some of the features are found in previous, more affordable TaylorMade irons

TaylorMade gifted the Stealth range to the world in 2022. Although they do not possess carbon fiber layers like the driver, these irons deliver exceptional ball zip. In addition, to their speed, I enjoyed a towering launch, maximum forgiveness, and a soft feel.

You’ll see that TaylorMade opted for a Cap Back Design with a toe wrap construction to reposition the CG low and deep. Naturally, this setup encourages a high launch to help beginners keep their ball airborne for longer.

The 450 stainless steel face with an intelligently positioned sweet spot supports the low CG to add power to your lift-off. As a result, I produced rampant ball pace on all shots for increased yardage on approach. Also, a higher flight prompted a softer, controlled landing to hold on tighter greens.

Furthermore, you’ll notice that the Stealth irons contain the classic TaylorMade Thru-Slot Speed pocket to increase clubface flexibility. The increased flex helped me prevent speed and spin loss on low-face strikes.

Finally, my hands appreciated the protection afforded to them by the Echo Damping System. The engineers placed it behind the clubface to drown out harsh shocks generated from mishits and ensure a soft feel.

9. Callaway Rogue ST Max OS Lite  – Fastest Clubhead Speed

Pros

• Lighter shafts help you produce accelerated golf club speed
• Generates rampant ball velocity
• Prompts a controlled landing
• Encourages straighter shots
• Optimal forgiveness

Cons

• Expensive
• Faster swinging beginners may sky their shots with these lightweight irons

Never one to be outdone by their foes TaylorMade, Callaway released their Rogue ST Max range in 2022 to compete with the Stealth series. Competition is fantastic for innovation and is evident with the Rogue ST Max OS Lite, our irons with the fastest clubhead speed in our test.

You’ll find that the OS Lite irons are seriously lightweight, where you receive that added swing speed boost. Callaway equipped them with lighter shafts to help slow-swing speed golfers accelerate on the downswing.

In addition, I found that the high-strength 450 A.I. optimized flash face cup produced incredible ball zip on all shots. The flash face cup increases clubface flex to accelerate ball speed, improve COR and encourage towering ball flight. As a result, you can generate a controlled landing angle for an increased bite.

You’ll notice that these irons contain 46 grams of tungsten which amplifies the stability of the club head for advanced MOI. Plus, the increased tungsten expands the sweet spot around the clubface, thanks to perimeter weighting, which limits spin and speed drop on mishits.

10. Powerbilt EX-550  – Best Hybrid Irons

Pros

• Highly affordable
• Easy to launch
• Promotes straight shots
• Enhanced forgiveness
• Produces a high launch

Cons

• Playing with an entire set of hybrids may not appeal to all golfers
• The higher MOI construction restricts workability

Closing out our top ten list of best irons for beginners is the Powerbilt-EX 550 hybrid irons, which claim the title in this category. I appreciate their affordability, forgiveness, straight shots, and easy launch.

You’ll notice that EX-550 hybrid irons are a no-frills set of affordable golf clubs ideal for beginners on a strict budget. The hybrid set consists of a 4-iron through-to-sand wedge, with the latter the only non-hybrid construction.

I found that the graphite shafts on these irons provided ample flex to accelerate ball speed off the clubface for a highly consistent launch. Lastly, the hollow body construction on these hybrid irons provides incredible MOI to produce straight shots and combat slices.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.

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If you’re new to golf, you may not know how to operate a rangefinder.

I didn’t even know what a rangefinder was when I first started playing golf. I thought the gentleman I was paired with was looking through binoculars the entire round!

This guide will break down what range a rangefinder is and how it works. I’ll also let you know which rangefinder I use and recommend to help improve your accuracy on approach shots into the green.

How a Golf Rangefinder Works

Golfers use rangefinders to get the exact distance of their target. Most of the time, rangefinders are used to determine how many yards away the pin is.

Here are some highlights of how a rangefinder works:

• Look through the rangefinder with one eye
• Hit the button on top to increase the magnification and zero in on your target area (flag, bunkers, water hazards, etc.)
• The button sends a laser beam to lock on whatever you are pointing it at
• The rangefinder will then calculate the yardage for you by measuring how long it takes for the laser to reach your target and shoot back to the device
• The device will then show you the yardage to your target

Another helpful feature that some rangefinders have is called “Slope Mode”. As the name implies, this function tells you the elevation change of the green and factors that into the overall distance. This is a massive advantage for the golfer and can lead to accurate distances on approach shots.

Are Rangefinders Accurate?

Yes, golf rangefinders are incredibly accurate. Most brands are accurate to within one yard of the actual distance. This high level of accuracy gives golfers an extra boost of confidence when deciding which club to hit.

Just how much yardage can you measure with a rangefinder? Most brands will give you pinpoint accuracy for up to 500 yards. That means you can trust a rangefinder’s accuracy from the tee on every hole on the golf course.

However, laser rangefinders aren’t perfect, and certain circumstances can lead to a decrease in accuracy. For example, the laser beam of the rangefinder will be negatively affected by any type of rain or fog. Remember that if you are playing golf in any kind of harsh weather conditions.

Which Is Better – A Golf GPS or Rangefinder?

Both rangefinders and golf GPS devices are helpful tools to use while on the golf course. Both devices have slope measurement capabilities and can provide accurate readings. Both are also easy to use and have a high level of durability.

So, with all that being said, which one is better? The answer is different for every golfer. Let’s examine which device is better based on what category is most important to you.

Price

If you are trying to save money, go with a GPS device. Some golf GPS phone apps are even available at no cost. These apps utilize satellites to give you a layout of each hole on the golf course.

Golf GPS watches are also affordable for golfers on a tight budget. They can be bought for as little as $90 and the battery will usually last around 12 hours before needing to be recharged.

A laser rangefinder works quite well, but they’re usually more expensive than golf GPS devices. The cheapest models start in the $150 to $200 range.

Accuracy

If it’s premium accuracy that you are after, you can’t go wrong with optical rangefinders. These are more accurate than GPS devices and can provide you with the correct yardage more quickly. Also, the slope technology option on a rangefinder is typically much more accurate than a golf GPS watch.

Just how much more accurate is a rangefinder? Remember how we said earlier that most rangefinders are accurate to within one yard? Most GPS golf devices are only accurate to within four yards.

For the average golfer, this accuracy difference won’t matter much. Mid and high handicappers are going to use the same club if a shot is 80 yards or 84 yards. However, advanced golfers may use an entirely different wedge in this instance.

Ease of Use

This attribute, like many others, comes down to the personal preference of the golfer. Rangefinders and golf GPS devices are both reasonably easy to use on the course.

Some golfers prefer the rangefinder because the autofocus camera makes it easy to aim at their targets. However, folks with shaky hands may not be able to hold steady enough to lock onto their targets.

Along those same lines, some people like the convenience of a golf GPS watch. They find it kind of nice to not have to zero in on a target but simply look down at their wrists to get the yardage to the pin.

The Rangefinder I Use and Recommend

If you are ready to buy a rangefinder, I highly recommend the Bushnell Tour V4. It’s been one of Bushnell’s most popular rangefinders over the last six years. It’s even legal for tournament play as long as the slope mode is turned off.

When it comes to rangefinders, Bushnell is the king! Here are some of the benefits of the Bushnell Tour V4.

• Amazing Accuracy: You’ll have more confidence in your club selection because it’s always accurate to within one yard.
• Long Battery Life: I’ve been using the Tour V4 for over a year and a half, and the battery is still going strong.
• Pinpoint Slope Calculation: You’ll know the exact degrees of slope and just how much it will affect your shots. This is incredibly helpful on both uphill and downhill shots, especially if obstacles like water hazards are involved.
• Jolt Technology: This feature is probably the most incredible. If you are properly locked onto your target, the Tour V4 will lightly vibrate as a signal. No more guessing as to whether or not you are aiming at the correct spot
• Fast Focus System: The Tour V4 rangefinder lenses work quickly to provide you with the correct yardage. Some Golf GPS devices can lag if the signal is weak or the weather is bad. That won’t happen with the Tour V4.
• Ideal Size: The Tour V4 isn’t too big or too small. It fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. It’s also lightweight, which means you shouldn’t have a problem zeroing in on your target.
• Warranty: Bushnell stands behind the quality of its products. Each type of rangefinder that Bushnell offers is covered by a two-year warranty.
• Water Resistant: Unlike some other rangefinders, the Tour V4’s performance isn’t affected by rain. The device is water resistant and will still give you accurate readings in a light drizzle. Just to be on the safe side, though, I don’t use it during any type of heavy rain.

I can’t say enough good things about the Bushnell Tour V4. I used to think that all rangefinders were overrated and overpriced, but Bushnell has converted me from a skeptic to a believer.

I can’t imagine playing a single round of golf without it in my bag. If you decide to give the Tour V4 a shot, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Mike Noblin

Mike has been involved with sports for over 30 years. He’s been an avid golfer for more than 10 years and is obsessed with watching the Golf Channel and taking notes on a daily basis. He also holds a degree in Sports Psychology.

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Most of my work centers around simplifying the game for the average mid and high-handicapper golfer.

However, today I change course and focus on superior golfers.

Today, I unveil my top 10 best blade irons for optimal workability, turf interaction, and control around the golf course.

Let’s get straight into the list.

1. TaylorMade P790 (Best for Forgiveness)

Pros

• Forgiving for blade irons
• Dampens vibrations
• Increase low clubface flex for consistent ball speed
• Enhanced sweet spot
• High launching long irons

Cons

• Expensive
• Superior golfers may find the game improvement technology limits playability

Forgiveness is not a feature commonly associated with blades, but I have to say TaylorMade changed my opinion. The P790 are forgiving blade irons, but expectation management is essential because you cannot expect the leniency of cavity back irons.

Despite the traditional, compact profile of the blades, the P790 contains ample technology to produce consistent ball speed, spin, C.O.R, and M.O.I on all shots. Starting with its low profile tungsten weighting that prompts high flight in the long irons for consistent carry distance.

In addition, the engineers included the famed Thru Slot Speed Pocket, which boosts face flexibility to provide consistent speed on strikes low off the clubface. Plus, Inverted Cone Technology (I.C.T) expands the sweet spot for rapid zip and controlled spin on mishits.

Lastly, I found the Speedfoam Air feature highly effective in dampening vibrations and ensuring a soft touch on all shots. Overall, the TaylorMade P790 irons are a suitable package for mid or low handicappers tempted to switch from game improvement to players’ clubs.

2. PXG 0211 ST (Best for Golfers on a Budget)

Pros

• Affordable for blade irons
• Moderately forgiving
• Durable, tight grain structure
• Easy to control the clubface through impact
• Soft feel and feedback

Cons

• The large PXG logo on the muscle back is off-putting, but they need to put it somewhere
• The high MOI reduced the curve on my draws and fades

The PXG 0211 ST range is the best blade irons for golfers on a budget. Now, PXG does offer more affordable golf clubs. But, they do not deliver the workability, control, and consistency of the 0211 ST range. These irons are suitable for mid or low handicappers looking to switchblades.

Parson Xtreme Golf put these irons through a triple forging process to boost durability and soften the feel of each shot. The long-lasting grain structure encourages optimal spin and speed on all shots for improved results.

They may not provide the forgiveness of game improvement irons, but you’ll enjoy more than is offered by other blades. PXG engineers redistributed mass across the clubhead, creating perimeter weighting for stability, a square clubface, and consistent spin.

Contrary to the high moment of inertia (MOI) throughout the clubhead, PXG lowered it above the shaft axis. You’ll find that this boosts your ability to control the clubface through access, enabling you to launch a draw or fade.

3. Callaway Rogue ST Pro (Best for Explosive Ball Speed)

Pros

• Encourages accelerated ball speed
• Maintains ball speed on off-center strikes
• Soft feel and feedback
• Promotes consistent spin
• Enhanced C.O.R

Cons

• Expensive
• The tungsten weight at the back detracts from the appearance of a traditional blade

The Rogue ST Pro forms part of the latest irons series from Callaway designed to deliver explosive ball velocity and a soft touch to superior golfers. I found that it produced the fastest ball pace of all these irons, making them the best blades for the cause.

Callaway engineers leveraged innovative technology to construct a high-strength 450 A.I. Designed Flash Face Cup. The technology boosts ball speed and ensures consistency on all strikes for improved results.

They roped in A.I. for a second run at optimizing the face to produce spin consistency and elevate the coefficient of restitution (C.O.R). As a result, the clubface increases the energy transfer to the ball at contact for rapid speed, controlled spin, and an optimal launch.

The final feature you’ll notice is the Patented Urethane Microspheres. Although you cannot see the Microspheres, they drown out vibrations and promote soft feedback. In addition, they amplify acoustics for a crisp sound on strikes out of the sweet spot.

4. Wilson Staff Model (Best for Clean Turf Interaction)

Pros

• Consistent ball speed on off-center hits
• Optimal turf interaction
• Generates controlled spin on flushed strikes
• Promotes maximum playability
• Clean look at address

Cons

• Expensive
• I did experience a challenge with glare

Wilson has long crafted golf clubs and balls for the average golfer, but they are changing that narrative. The Wilson Staff Model irons feature the clean-cut look of a traditional blade with game improvement technology for clean turf interaction, forgiveness, and consistent spin and distance.

Off the bat, the precision-milled muscle back iron design appealed to the traditionalist in me, but I was unsure about the longer blade. I quickly realized the added length was necessary to install the modern features for consistent iron shots.

The Diamond Scoreline Pattern layout appears across the clubface, helping you generate adequate spin and speed at impact. You’ll notice that this allows consistent flight through the bag, including high launch shots with your long irons and piercing trajectory with a pitching wedge.

Lastly, the Optimized Sole Camber stood out as a core ingredient in the Staff’s success. The rounded sole radius helped the clubface cut through rough and fairway to reach my ball unhindered.

5. Callaway Apex MB (Best for Traditionalists)

Pros

• Classic shape and design
• Optimized ball speed
• Delivers consistent spin
• Produces controlled ball flight
• Enables maximum workability

Cons

• Expensive
• The lower launch may lead to inconsistent carry distance with long irons

Golf club manufacturers are evolving to include game improvement technology in players’ irons to provide greater consistency. While this benefits more golfers, it removes the clean, simple blade profile. The Callaway Apex MB irons understand this and have maintained the traditional look where possible.

Besides their tour shaping and classic style, the Apex MB irons help the average golfer produce optimal launch and spin from anywhere on the golf course. High-Performance 20V grooves boost control, ball speed, and spin for optimal launch, flight, and roll.

In addition, you’ll notice that the irons contain CG weighting behind the center of the clubface for a controlled launch. Therefore, you produce piercing flight, enabling great playability on approach. The only downside is that the weight is an eye sore.

6. Mizuno Pro 225 (Best for a Soft Feel)

Pros

• Buttery soft feel
• High launching long irons
• Boosts energy transfer at contact
• Glare resistant
• Clean turf interaction

Cons

• Minimal forgiveness
• Reduced workability compared to previous Mizuno players’ irons

The team from Hiroshima continues to grace us with exceptional feeling golf clubs, fit for the best players on earth. The Mizuno Pro 225 claimed the title for the softest feel in our 2022 blades challenge, thanks to a Grain Flow Forged 4135 Chromoly construction.

The Chromoly construction creates a soft feel and bolsters the strength of the golf club for greater longevity. A Copper Underlay adds to the buttery feel of each strike, which the engineers say produces an incremental, soft touch at impact.

Furthermore, a Hollow Body C.O.R Construction increases energy transfer at impact and enhances MOI. As a result, you produce consistent ball speed and spin and maintain a square clubface at contact.

Finally, Mizuno equipped the long and mid irons in the set with additional low and deep tungsten weights. You’ll notice that this design encourages higher shots with your longer irons for consistent carry distance.

Conversely, the short irons and wedges forego tungsten to deliver piercing flight, maximum spin, and drop and stop control. Lastly, the Pro 225 irons possess a satin brush finish to reduce glare at address for greater comfort.

7. Ping Blueprint (Best for Workability)

Pros

• Optimizes workability
• Semi-forgiving long irons
• Clean turf interaction
• Exceptional speed and spin off the machined grooves
• Sheds moisture from the clubface

Cons

• Premium price
• Zero forgiveness in the short irons and wedges

I first saw the Blueprint irons when my compatriot Louis Oosthuizen started carrying them, and I can see why. These irons enable advanced workability to help you shape your golf ball around the links. The long irons launch high, while short irons and wedges encourage controlled flight for maximum shot-stopping power.

Ping forged the Blueprint irons from 8620 Carbon Steel to create a clean, compact muscle back design, fit for the game’s best. These features combine to set the platform for improved playability. Besides the compact clubface and short blade, these irons feature a narrow sole for limited turf interaction.

Furthermore, I found that the Ping machined face and grooves worked flawlessly to generate enhanced pace and spin out of the sweet spot. In addition, you’ll notice a tungsten toe weight in the long and mid irons to encourage a square clubface at contact for elevated accuracy and ball speed.

Finally, Ping addressed the effects of moisture on your clubface in wet conditions by employing a Hydropeal 2.0 finish. It helps remove moisture from the path of the clubface to ensure a clean strike at contact.

8. Titleist 620 CB (Best For Minimal Offset)

Pros

• Minimal offset
• Maximum workability
• Clean turf interaction
• High MOI long irons
• Compact playable short irons

Cons

• The cavity back construction may deter traditionalists
• Premium price tag

Our penultimate blade irons for 2022 feature the least offset design of the Titleist 620 CB. These are not traditional blades because they contain a minor cavity back, but they promote exceptional playability through the set for increased control on approach.

The reduced offset and thin topline provide a pleasant sight at address, and it enables advanced shot shaping. I found the 620 CB put me in the driver’s seat, helping me to fade and draw the ball for superior distance control and accuracy. However, mishits led to catastrophic results.

You’ll notice that the set offers progressive blade lengths, ranging from larger long irons to compact, playable, short irons. The 3 and 4-irons are co-forged with tungsten to boost the MOI and stability of these clubs. As a result, it encourages straight, high shots.

The last feature worth mentioning is Titleist 620 CB tour refined sole that delivers crisp turf interaction, clearing obstructions into impact.

9. Srixon Z-Forged (Best Address Profile)

Pros

• Slim address profile
• Simple, traditional muscle back profile
• Moderately affordable for blades
• Encourages clean strikes from the fairway and rough
• Buttery soft feel

Cons

• Zero forgiveness
• The Srixon logo detracts from the appealing simple look, but that is a personal dislike

Superior players often seek irons that provide a clean, attractive appearance at address for added confidence. I found that the Srixon Z-Forged thrived in this department and earned my pick for its turf interaction, workability, and classic muscle back design.

Traditionalists will approve of the muscle-back construction with a thin address profile, which looks clean behind the golf ball at address. In addition, you’ll welcome the Tour V.T. sole, which limits turf interaction to produce a clean ball strike.

Furthermore, I noticed that the slim profile of these irons made it easy to work the ball from the fairway and rough, enhancing my control.

Finally, I appreciated the buttery-soft feel produced by the Z-Forged irons, which felt the way a players iron should. The enhanced feel stems from the forging of a single billet of soft 1020 carbon steel.

10. TaylorMade P7MB (Best for Control)

Pros

• Produces piercing ball flight for greater control
• Maximum workability
• Moderate spin
• Clean appearance at address
• Encourages maximum launch

Cons

• Expensive
• Zero forgiveness on off-center hits

The TaylorMade P7MB combines classic muscle-back geometry with a contemporary face to offer exceptional control, power, and turf interaction through the bag. These modern blade irons possess a pure buttery touch for enhanced feedback on strikes out of the sweet spot.

I noticed that the thin top line of the clubface provided a clean appearance at address, which was enhanced by minimal offset. The lack of offset assistance allowed me to induce a draw or fade when required for greater control on the golf course.

Furthermore, you’ll notice these blades carry a thin sole, which glides across the turf, prompting consistent speed and power into impact. I also enjoyed the optimized grain structure on these irons and delivered optimal ball speed and spin on shots out of the middle.

Finally, the engineers precisely located the center of gravity (CG) in each iron for the ideal launch angle, spin control, and ball speed on approach and around the green.

Link to buy on PGA Tour Superstore

FAQs

Do blade irons make you better?

No, blade irons do not make you better. You must be a consistent ball striker, willing to sacrifice forgiveness before adding blades to your bag. Basically, low handicappers and professionals are the only golfers who have business with blades.

Do blade irons go further?

No, blade irons do not go further for most golfers. That is because they offer limited forgiveness on off-center strikes, resulting in a loss of ball speed, C.O.R, and distance. The average golfer will hit game-improvement irons consistently further than blades.

Are blades harder to hit than cavity backs?

Yes, blades are far harder to hit than cavity backs because they contain a concentrated sweet spot in the center of the clubface. Any strikes out of this zone reduce ball speed, increase spin and produce shorter, inaccurate shots.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.

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When you think about golf simulators, you probably picture the classy setups that coaches and pros use, with premium impact screens and a powerful projector.

However, smart devices and wifi hotspots are changing the dynamic. In this post, I reveal the 10 best outdoor golf simulators to check out in 2022.

I have tried and tested numerous options to identify the top picks for different golfers. The aim is to help low handicappers to beginners leverage the power of golf simulator technology. These devices will enable you to practice whenever you want, and gain detailed insight into each golf shot.

If you are on a budget this year, you can find a range of suitable options in our guide of the 10 best golf simulators for under $1000.

1. Flightscope Mevo + – Best Overall Outdoor Golf Simulator

My top pick for outdoor golf simulators in 2022 is the Flightscope Mevo +. The brand has strong ties to the town of Stellenbosch, where I spent years working in the wine industry. Despite my patriotism, the Mevo + stood out for its exceptional accuracy, quality simulation software, and its portability.

LIV Golf recruits Bryson DeChambeau, and Bubba Watson has long supported the performance of the Mevo +. You’ll notice that its price point makes it accessible to most golfers. Acquiring this simulator package gives you access to the E6 Connect golf software, which features 6 virtual golf courses and 17 practice ranges.

You’ll need an iOS device to enjoy the simulator features. However, you can link up the launch monitor to your iPad or iPhone and enjoy the functionality on the driving range.

Besides the entertainment aspect, the Mevo + measures an uncanny amount of data points for its price to enhance the accuracy of each reading. 16 is the exact number, which includes ball, club, and flight data for improved results.

Finally, the Flightscope Mevo + is a doppler radar device, which must sit approximately 6 to 8 feet behind the hitting mat for accurate measurements.

Pros

• Accurate
• Measures 16 data points
• More affordable than a Trackman, Bushnell, or Foresight Sports product
• The package gives you access to E6 Connect simulator software
• Light and portable

Cons

• It is expensive compared to the standard Mevo
• The device requires a wifi point or hotspot to connect to the software

2. SwingLogic SLX MicroSim – Best Budget Golf Simulator Package

I understand that golf simulators are premium products, which rules them out for many players. However, you’ll notice a handful of super affordable products propping up online. The SwingLogic SLX MicroSim is one model defying the trend of traditional golf simulators. Instead of a launch monitor, they employ a sensor clip.

The device attaches to the top of your golf club and measures 8 data points that revolve around your clubhead. It provides no ball data and can produce inaccurate results. In addition, the clip loses control when you strike a standard golf ball. Therefore, you need to strike sponge balls or no ball.

Alternatively, you can operate the swing stick without striking any golf ball to receive feedback on your swing. Despite its rock-bottom price, the package includes a complimentary 6-month subscription to E6 Connect golf software to provide the simulator experience.

The downside of limited data points is the accuracy of your measurements. You’ll find that this is not a train smash for the average golfer seeking entry-level insight into each swing.

Pros

• Super affordable golf simulator
• It measures 8 data points
• The package includes a swing stick
• The swing sensor clip saves space taken up by launch monitors at setup
• It gives you a 6-month complimentary subscription to E6 Connect Software

Cons

• You cannot strike urethane or ionomer golf balls
• It does not measure any golf ball data

3. Flightscope Mevo – Best Golf Simulator For High Handicappers

We are back with Flightscope for the best high handicappers simulator for outdoor use. The standard edition of the Mevo does not provide access to golf simulator software. However, it does measure a handful of data points using doppler radar technology. Plus, it enables you to record each swing.

I noticed that it recorded 8 data points, which is half the amount of the Mevo +. But, it provides sufficient insight into each shot for high handicappers. You’ll notice that it measures the standard carry distance and launch angle. Plus, it records spin rate, smash factor, clubhead, and ball speed.

Despite the reduced simulation experience, Flightscope gives you access to the Mevo mobile application to view historical data on your tablet or smartphone.

You’ll find what the Mevo lacks in data points. It makes up for it with its lightweight construction and super affordable price. This gives the average golfer access to a moderately accurate device that does not smash the budget.

Pros

• It measures 8 data points
• More affordable than the Mevo +
• Allows you to video your shot and apply data overlays
• Allows you to store historical data on the Mevo mobile app
• Light and portable

Cons

• It measures half the data points of the Mevo +
• It does not provide access to golf simulator software.

4. Bushnell Launch Pro – Best Golf Simulator Setup For Mid Handicappers

The Bushnell Launch Pro is a premium launch monitor brought to you by the legends of the golf rangefinder world. While it is priced higher than several options on this list, I found it ideal for mid-handicappers serious about becoming a low handicap golfer.

The launch pro records 17 data points to enhance the accuracy of every shot. Besides the standard distance, spin, and launch angle, the Bushnell measures the angle of attack, club path, and descent angle. In addition, you’ll notice that it is equipped with a barometer to adapt the read to the surrounding weather conditions.

As a photometric launch monitor, you must position the device parallel to the golf mat to record all your shots. I was impressed with its ability to measure thousands of frames every second to provide highly accurate results.

The Launch Pro pairs with an iPad or gaming laptop, or PC to offer simulation features indoors and out. You’ll notice that purchasing this edition includes a one-year subscription to the basic membership and a 30-day free trial for the gold setup.

The basic membership does not offer the simulation experience, which I found disappointing, given its price. Furthermore, you only receive access to the basic membership for 12 months, after which it is $249 per year. You do have the option to upgrade to the golf package, but you can expect to fork out over $58 per month.

Pros

• Superb accuracy
• Measures an impressive 17 data points
• Provides real-time flight view
• You receive a 1 month free trial to the gold subscription
• Durable and quality product

Cons

• The launch monitor is expensive
• The basic subscription does not offer the simulator experience.

5. Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor – Best For Low Handicappers

Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, Jon Rahm, and Jason Day. Besides all winning at least 1 major tournament, what else do they have in common? They all choose Full Swing for their golf simulator needs. The Kit Launch monitor is a more affordable option for low handicap amateur golfers to gain insight into your game.

You’ll see that the device employs advanced doppler radar technology, which can zero in on 16 elements of every golf shot. Using their expertise, the engineers ensured the device offers an accurate net return on all readings for greater insight into your golf swing.

Furthermore, I found the 4k camera feature handy to review my swing path relative to the distance and flight of my golf ball. You will notice that it records your swing and feeds the video to the Launch Monitor app for you to review later.

If you want the simulator experience, you’ll need to upgrade to the basic subscription package, which runs you $299 a year. This package gives you access to virtual golf courses, driving ranges, games, and challenges to enhance your skills.

Despite its exceptional features, the Full Swing Kit is still a high price to pay, for the average player. But, you can consider the option of 4 interest-free payments. Overall, it suits lower handicappers or golf enthusiasts searching for detailed insight into every shot.

Pros

• Exceptional accuracy
• Measures data points
• 5 hours of battery life
• 4K camera records your swing to analyze later
• You can acquire it in 4 interest-free payments

Cons

• Expensive
• The package does not include a subscription to the E6 Connect software.

Link to buy on PGA Tour Superstore

6. Foresight Sports GC3 – Best Launch Monitor For Golf Coaches

Foresight Sports are famed for their GCQuad launch monitor, employed by golf coaches and players globally. However, this time, I am giving much-deserved credit to the GC3, which succeeded the popular Quad. It earns my respect for its accuracy and the simulator experience.

Foresight engineers opted for their tried and tested photometric technology, which uses three cameras to measure 10 data points, for improved measurements. You’ll find it ideal for golf coaches looking for a quality yet moderately priced device to operate at the driving range.

Furthermore, I enjoyed the overall simulator experience with the FSX app, which gave me access to 20 virtual golf courses to play in my own time.

The major downside for me was the quality of the FSX application on my iPhone and iPad. The application froze at times, making it slow and frustrating. I noticed that when I brought out my Windows-operated laptop, the results were superior. However, it is inconvenient to take your laptop to the range.

Pros

• Optimal accuracy on all shots
• Measures 10 data points
• It gives you access to 20 virtual golf courses
• Built to offer golf coaches insight into their student’s swings
• 1-year warranty

Cons

• Expensive product
• Records fewer data parameters than other premium devices

7. SkyTrak Basic Practice Range Package – Best For Entertainment

SkyTrak took over in the age of the pandemic, as golfers desperately searched for ways to continue enjoying the game. Their affordable but robust home golf simulator setup attracted the average player to their offering. Ultimately, it stood out to me as the best golf simulator for entertainment.

The engineers went all out and made the SkyTrak launch monitor compatible with 4 simulation software options. You’ll notice that these include World Golf Tour, TruGolf E6 Connect, Jack Nicklaus Perfect Golf, and the Golf Club Game. This increases your access to virtual golf courses, driving ranges, games, and challenges.

As a photometric device, the SkyTrak must sit between 6 to 8 feet parallel to the strike zone for optimal readings. Although it isn’t in the league of the GC3, it is accurate enough for the average mid-to-high handicapper looking to have fun while you practice. With 11 data points, you cannot complain.

Furthermore, I found that SkyTrak, unlike other launch monitors, does not discriminate against operating systems. Whether you roll with Windows, iOS, or Android, the SkyTrak software supports your device.

Pros

• Access to 4 golf simulator software options
• It enables play on multiple virtual golf courses
• Undertake challenges and games
• Measures 11 data points
• Syncs with iOS, Windows, and Android

Cons

• Still expensive compared to other golf launch monitors
• The data readings are not as accurate as a premium device

8. Voice Caddie SC300 – Best For Average Golfers

Let me tone it down and showcase an entry-level golf simulator product. One that does not offer the complete simulation experience. Instead of enabling you to play virtual golf courses and watch your ball flight, the SC300 records basic data and gives top-level insight into each shot.

When I tested this device, I noticed that it is perfect for the average golfer searching for additional information about their swing. It measures 6 aspects of your golf shots, including carry distance, swing speed, launch angle, ball speed, smash factor, and apex.

You’ll find that the SC300 launch monitor connects to an iOS and Android application, which houses historical data for you to analyze your progress. In addition, the app is the only place where you can view your spin rate.

Voice Caddie opted for doppler radar technology to improve the accuracy of the device’s measurements. In my experience, it is 2 to 3% off of premium launch monitor measurements, which is insignificant for the average or high handicappers.

Pros

• Affordable
• Records 6 data points
• Connects with iOS and Android smart devices
• Provides voice output for distance readings
• Offers instant feedback

Cons

• The data is 2 to 3% off of premium launch monitor measurements
• It only measures 6 data points

9. Garmin Approach R10 – Best Hybrid Golf Simulator

The Garmin Approach R10 provides players with a unique hybrid functionality to record swing data and offers distance insight on the links. In other words, the R10 is a launch monitor and GPS device to help you on the practice range and the golf course.

You’ll find that the R10 is a portable and lightweight model that is sold with a phone mount. This elevates the device’s position when in operation, ensuring an unobstructed view of the hitting zone.

Although the basic R10 package did not offer the full simulator ordeal, I took it for what it was worth and enjoyed the analysis of my shots. It recorded 6 parameters, including the standard speed, spin, and launch angle. Plus, launch direction and smash factor.

I decided to go ahead and subscribe to the basic E6 Connect package, which did allow me to play on a handful of virtual golf courses and driving ranges. In addition, I undertook a handful of challenges to improve my skills from tee to green.

The data is stored on the Garmin Golf app, which is accessible on iOS and Android devices. You can open the app at any time and review your historical records. Added to its launch monitor tendencies, the R10 gives you distance readings for holes on 42,000 golf courses.

Pros

• Serves as a launch monitor and GPS device
• Affordable for a launch monitor
• Measures 6 data parameters
• The Garmin Golf App is available on iOS and Android
• You can subscribe to the E6 Connect software for the complete experience

Cons

• It measures fewer data points than other devices
• You only receive a 30-day free membership to Garmin Golf, after which it is $9.99 per month.

10. Rapsodo Mobile Launch – Best For Video Analysis

The final pick on our list of best outdoor golf simulators is the Rapsodo Mobile Launch monitor. This device earned my pick as the best option for video analysis. You’ll notice it doesn’t offer the traditional golf simulator setup, but it is fantastic for recording each swing.

It did measure my distance, clubhead and ball speed, launch angle, and smash factor, which I could overlay on the video. I found it handy to understand how my swing correlated to the outcome of my shot.

In addition, to the data, the launch monitor provided shot tracing capabilities to follow my ball into the distance. I noted the data overlay with the shot tracer boosted my insight of each swing.

Besides the impressive video library and the shot tracer feature, the Rapsodo mobile launch monitor provided a GPS shot dispersion map and club gapping index. The shot dispersion highlighted the consistency of each shot while gapping identified any loft issues in my set.

The only notable bummer is that the Rapsodo Mobile Launch monitor only pairs with iPhones and ipads.

Pros

• Enables you to video each swing
• Add your data for each shot as an overlay to your video
• Includes shot tracer feature
• GPS shot dispersion map
• Club gapping index

Cons

• It does not provide the standard simulator experience
• It only measures 5 data parameters

FAQs

Can you put a regular golf simulator outside?

No, you cannot operate a regular golf simulator outside because of the features required to run it. You need an electricity connection, wifi hotspot impact screen or golf net, a projector, and a PC.

However, many golf launch monitor manufacturers now allow you to pair your device with their app. This allows you to experience the simulator festivities outdoors.

How accurate are outdoor golf simulators?

The accuracy of outdoor simulators depends on the number of data points measured and the consistency of the device’s read. For example, a premium device such as the Full Swing Kit Launch Monitor is accurate to the nearest 1%.

Conversely, a product like the Voice Caddie SC300 or SwingLogic SLX is far less accurate due to fewer data points measured and more basic technology.

Can you build an outdoor golf simulator on your own?

Yes, you can build an outdoor golf simulator on your own. All you need is a hitting mat, a launch monitor, access to golf simulator software such as WGT or E6 Connect, data or wifi, and a net with a steel frame. Finally, a mobile device or tablet is vital to operate the software.

You’ll notice that this allows you to enjoy the simulator experience for a fraction of the cost of an indoor setup.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.

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Shamble, scramble, and best ball are constantly confused by amateur golfers.

Working in the golf industry for more than a dozen years taught me that most amateur golfers have no idea what the difference is between these events, and some just think the word shamble is a mispronunciation of scramble.

Rest assured, the shamble is a real thing.

In fact, it’s kind of a fun format and can be a great team event. Here’s what to expect when you play in a shamble tournament.

What is a Shamble Tournament?

A shamble tournament is where each golfer hits a drive, the best drive is chosen, and then all players play their ball into the hole from there. The shamble is different from a scramble or a best ball event.

When you play in a shamble, you will be using some of your own golf drives as you make your way around the golf course, but it can be beneficial if you run into a bad hole to have another drive that you can play off of.

The shamble tournament is great for those who struggle off the tee box but can play the hole on their own.

Many shambles have different variations, and sometimes one team score is all that is needed; sometimes, there are gross and net scores collected, and other times it is two net scores at the end of the hole. It will be up to your tournament committee to decide which is the case for your event.

Differences Between a Golf Shamble vs. Scramble

There are a few main differences between a scramble and a shamble, and it’s important to understand them. Not only do you want to ensure you are following the rules, but it’s also essential to think about strategy when playing in these events.

Shamble Requires More of Your Own Shots

In a scramble, you will continue to choose the best shot from the golfers in your group the entire time you play the hole. This results in some holes where none of your shots are selected as the best ones.

In a shamble format, you may not be playing from your own drive, but you will undoubtedly be playing your ball into the hole.

The nice thing about this for golfers that play in a shamble is that they can enjoy seeing more of the course and get more of a full round in. The downside, of course, is that it’s much harder for higher handicap golfers.

More Than One Score at The End of a Shamble

Most shambles will have you take at least one best gross and one best net at the end of a hole. However, sometimes it can be the two best net balls of the group.

With a scramble tournament, only one score is recorded as all players keep moving to the best shot throughout the hole. When you play a golf shamble format, you will have a more accurate idea as to what your score would have been if you played your own golf ball.

Number of Drives

Most of the time, with a scramble, each of the team members in the foursome needs to contribute at least two drives. Considering the drive is such a vital part of the shamble, this same rule is typically in place.

Make sure that you are paying close attention to this as you move through to ensure that you have the best chance of winning this golf tournament format.

Two Person Formats

The 2-person shamble is rarer, but it is a format that can work. In addition, you can play a 2 person scramble tournament. However, most of the time, this works best with a group of four.

The pace of play for the shamble on the scramble is comparable. However, I can tell you that the scramble will usually be a bit shorter. It really depends on the golfer’s handicaps in the group to be able to estimate the pace of play.

Can You Handicap a Shamble?

Handicapping for shambles will vary based on what your tournament committee decides is the best fit. For the majority of shambles, the handicap of every player will be reduced by about 20 to 25%.

If you are a 20 handicap, you will get 15 shots that day. Considering you will have the chance to play from the best drive out of four, this is pretty fair.

A golf shamble handicap can sometimes be based on player handicap where the lower player gets less of their handicap, and the higher player gets more of their handicap, but this makes things more complicated.

Some tournament committee that is unsure of anyone’s handicap will just play a gross shamble. This is when only a gross score tournament result is collected.

Brittany Olizarowicz

Britt O has been playing golf since the age of 7. Almost 30 years later, she still loves the game, has played competitively on every level, and spent a good portion of her life as a Class A PGA Professional. Britt currently resides in Savannah, GA, with her husband and two young children.

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Do you want to learn how to play golf and enjoy the life-long game?

It’s said that golf is the greatest game ever played…

but why?

Maybe because it’s the ultimate test of the body and mind.

It’s calming, challenging, rewarding, and frustrating all at the same time.

It can beat you up, have you cussing the game, just to fall back in love with it an few minutes later.

But at the end of it all, it’s a beautiful game.

As Arnold Palmer once said:

There’s something about the game.  When played well it seems simple. So simple, you let your guard down…

and then it strikes back.

For many people it’s an obsession, others an occasional hobby.

No matter what it is to you, it’s an amazing game that you can learn at any point in your life.

It transcends generations, and teaches you more about yourself and life than any other game.

So, you’ve made the decision.  You want to play golf.  What now?

Read this Ultimate Guide on and learn how to play golf the right way.

1. Making the Decision to Play Golf

Making the decision to learn how to play golf is easy, but needs to happen with an understanding and respect for the game.  While golf is fun and meant to be enjoyed, it can often be frustrating, especially when first learning.

That being said there is one simple thing to remember.

GOLF IS HARD.

Professionals who have played their entire lives still hit bad shots.

So when you’re working on your game, don’t expect perfection.  Learn from your mistakes, accept them, and most importantly manage your expectations.

As a golf pro once told me when I was frustrated beginner having a mid-round breakdown:

“You’re not that good, to get that mad.”

Golf is a game that can teach you a lot about someone.  One of the major things is how they handle themselves on the course.  It’s easy to be happy when you’re playing well, but shows character when you keep your cool when things don’t go your way.

Enjoy the process and stay positive.  Life’s too short to get mad over a game

2. Getting Equipment

You may have heard that golf is an expensive game.  While this can be true, it doesn’t have to be.

It’s kind of like when you were told as a kid that there’s a difference between “wants” and “needs”.

You need clubs to play golf.  You don’t need expensive brand name irons and the newest driver on the market.  While “Chad” at your local golf store may try to tell you that so he can make more commissions, its not true.

A great golfer can play well with any set of clubs.

While at the highest level these things can make an impact, they’re so minimal it would never be noticed by weekend golfer or someone just learning.

So, find a good deal on a set of used clubs that are going to last you for the next 3-5 years and start swinging them!

Below is some information that will help you when buy your first set of golf clubs:

1. Buy used clubs

2. Find Deals

3. Get cavity back irons – They have larger heads on the clubs and are easier to hit

4. Invest in lessons over expensive clubs

5. Ask around – A golfer in your life probably has some extra clubs laying around they’ll sell you for cheap

That should get you started.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be resourceful.

3. Learning the Rules

Learning the rules is obviously an important part of learning how to play golf.  While they can seem overwhelming in the beginning, don’t get intimidated.  Just learn the basics and pick up the rest as you go.

The best way to learn the rules of golf is to play experienced golfers and do what they do.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes.  It’s the way we all learn.

The list below will give you a brief overview of the basics.

Scoring:

There are 18 holes on a golf course.

Every hole on the golf course has a “par” which is the ideal amount of strokes it should take you to get the ball in the hole for that specific hole.

The pars range from 3-5. Known as “a Par 3” and so on.

The pars for each hole are then added up to equal the total par for the course.  Typically 72.

How you perform on each hole has a specific name:

2 under Par (you shoot 3 on a Par 5) – Eagle

1 under Par – Birdie

Even with Par – Par

1 over Par – Bogey

2 over Par – Double Bogey

3 over Par – Triple Bogey

4 over Par – Quadrouple Bogey

5+ over Par – etc.

For example on a Par 4, if it takes you 4 shots to make your ball, you get a Par.

Par 3, takes you 4 shots, you get a Bogey.

Etc.

Other Golf Rules:

Here’s some other key rules that will help get you started when heading out to the course.

Tee Markers

When teeing off (starting) a hole. You must tee your ball up behind the markers, which are typically denounced by bright colored, oversized markers stuck into the ground.  There are typically different tees for different skill levels.  The more experienced further back and vise versa.

Shot Order on Green

Once every player on the hole has reached the green the person who is furthest away from the hole goes first.  This repeats until everyone has made their putts.

Out of Bounds

If you hit your ball into the water or out of play, you take a one-stroke penalty and drop a new ball.  You can either drop the new ball from where you just hit, or just before where it entered the out-of-bounds, then continue playing.

These are just a few of the basic rules of golf.  If you are interested in learning more here are some of the top resources for golf scoring and rules:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf

http://www.usga.org/rules-hub.html

http://www.pga.com/golf-instruction/instruction-feature/fundamentals/golf-beginners-golf-etiquette-rules-and-glossary

4. Improving Your Game

When starting your journey into the “life-long game” of golf, you might as well start with good habits and not have to worry about breaking bad ones later.

I struggled for years trying to improve my game.  It wasn’t until I realized that 90% of the improvement in my game was coming from 10% of the work I was putting in that the game became easier and I took 20 strokes off of my handicap.

Do these 3 simple things to improve your game and not waste time:

Read Golf Books To Improve Your Game

Counter to common belief, a lot of golf improvement can be made away from the course.  Sitting at the range and hitting 100 balls with the wrong fundamentals will only engrave bad habits into your mind.

That being said, you have to be careful what you read.  A lot of golf media is created just to get views and will not make major improvements to your game.

There is one book that single handedly started my journey to dropping my handicap.

It is an absolute must-read as you start your journey into golf.

Ben Hogan’s  Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf

Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons is the best book for anyone looking to develop a classic & consistent golf swing.

You can get it used for around a dollar at a local book store or easily from Amazon.  Starting with these fundamentals will save you countless hours of trying to correct your golf swing later.  Understanding “why” you do things in a golf swing is just as important as knowing how to swing the club.

Other Readings:

Dave Pelz’s Putting Bible: The Ultimate Guide to Mastering the Green – Putting

Golf Is Not A Game Of Perfect  – Mental

How I Play Golf – Tiger Woods – All around game

Follow the 80/20 Rule When Practicing

“Drive for show, putt for dough.” is a saying for a reason.

It’s because if you want to improve your golf game you MUST work on your short game.  Put the driver away and don’t even look at it until you feel completely comfortable on and around the green. These putting drills and chipping tips are a great place to start.

The 80/20 rule refers to putting 80% of your practice time towards your short game, and the other 20% towards everything else.

That means don’t even think about spending an hour hitting drives unless you plan on spending four hours putting.

I know.  There’s something satisfying about smashing a drive as far as you can but if you can’t make a 4-foot putt consistently you’ll never be able to seriously improve your game.

Take a Few Lessons To Get Started

You’ve made the decision to learn how to play golf, spend the few extra dollars to make sure you really enjoy it and get off to a good start.

Taking a couple lessons with a trained professional will make sure that you develop the right habits early and learn how to think about the game the right way.

Conclusion

Well that’s it.

You’re off and running.

Remember when learning the game to manage your expectations and enjoy the process.

It’s a hard game, one that can never be mastered, and get’s the best of people that have played it their entire lives.

Never forget, even when you’re obsessed, practicing everyday, betting with your friends, winning the round, and blow it on the last hole…

That it’s just a game.  The greatest one ever played.

August Noble

August Noble was first introduced to golf at 7 years old. In 2013 he started seriously working on his game and was able to reduce his handicap from 19 to 3.4 in less than two years. He’s been helping other golfers do the same ever since.

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I recently watched former pro golfer turned YouTuber Rick Shiels do an interview with Viktor Hovland where the Norwegian spoke about the experience of winning a Tour event. One question that arose was when pro golfers get paid after a tournament.

Hovland gave valuable insight into the procedure after winning a tournament. Knowing how to swing a golf club is one piece of the puzzle, but in this post, I’ll take you through the administrative side of being a professional golfer.

Aside from unveiling when the paycheck clears their bank account, I list the other operating expenses they must account for.

When Do Golfers Get Paid After a Tournament?

In his interview with Shiels, Hovland explains that a winner’s earnings hit their account on the Wednesday after DP World Tour events. Although he said he was not 100% sure, he believed it would be the same for the PGA Tour.

Therefore, it takes approximately 3 days from when a golf professional sinks the winning putt in a tournament until they receive their money.

How Much of Their Winnings Do Golfers Keep?

3 factors impact the total winnings that pro golfers keep. These are state tax, transfer, and caddy fees. The PGA Tour deducts State tax, and the transfer fees are docked by the bank. Whatever remains appears in their account on the Wednesday following the event.

The PGA professional then transfers the agreed fee to their caddy, which ESPN suggests is a minimum of 5%. This fee varies depending on the agreement the player and caddy have. For example, Matt Kuchar made the headlines when he paid his caddie $5,000 after winning nearly $1.3 million.

I have also included their expenses for the week to provide a more accurate idea of the net prize money. However, I excluded flights because of the variation in professionals’ home bases and the tournament locations. Plus, some players fly in private jets, which leads to fluctuating prices.

Let’s say that a player spends $450 per night on accommodation for them and their caddy. Add an extra $100 to $200 for food per day, and multiply that by 6 for the entire week.

Here’s an estimate of the total winnings a golfer keeps for the Masters, PGA Championship, and US Open:

*These figures exclude airfare. Caddie fees and state tax may vary depending on the municipality of the event.

Based on the information in the table, we see that professionals lose between 10 to 12% of the advertised tournament purse. Obviously, that is without factoring in the cost of transport and a varying fee for caddies.

I know some golfers who pay 10% of their earnings to their caddie if they win, so that number fluctuates as well.

Average Winning of a PGA Tour Golfer

Sports Illustrated reported that the average winnings of a PGA professional in 2021 was $1,485,055. This is the highest that the average has ever been, up over $400,000 from the shortened 2020 season. 2018 is the next best season. That year, players bagged an average of $1,329,295 from PGA Tour event earnings.

We have come a long way from 1996 when $181,000 was the base salary for players. These days, your bank account can look healthy even if you play to par.

The challenge with looking at the average winnings is that it fails to view the overall picture. Not every pro is raking in millions. The guys at the bottom end of the Tour money list struggle to keep their cards and face the threat of relegation to the Korn Ferry (previously Nationwide Tour).

Do Pro Golfers Get Paid to Play Tournaments?

Yes, professional golfers play for prize money, and their income is performance-based. Think of it as a commission-only sales job. The better you perform, the more money you make. Appearance fees are not as common today, given the lucrative purse offered. But the practice still occurs outside of the PGA Tour.

1999 Australian Masters champion Craig Spence once recalled a time when sponsors coughed up appearance fees which eased the pain of pricey long-haul flights. It also allowed up-and-coming players to focus on their golf and not worry about sinking themselves into debt should they miss the cut.

These fees also entice the world’s best to make the journey to an International event. In 2013, Tiger Woods was offered $3 million to tee off in the Turkish Airlines Open. The DP World Tour dips into its marketing budget to draw world-class fields to events, calling it a Promotional Service Fee.

Events in Europe, Asia, and Africa do not offer much in the form of prize money.A top ten payday is rough, but a 60th place finisher would earn a pittance. Therefore, the events need to incentivize top players by forking out an upfront fee.

The reality is that the world’s top players will attract crowds. Plus, they drive revenue from the accommodation, tickets, merchandise, and food and beverage. As a result, it makes financial sense for the Tour to pay an upfront marketing expense.

Therefore, if you play on the PGA Tour, your income stems from your results on the golf course and endorsement deals. However, the top players may receive an appearance fee when playing in events outside of the United States.

Do Pro Golfers Make Money If They Miss The Cut?

The only professional events where professionals get paid for missing the cuts are in majors. For example, golfers who missed the cut at the 2022 Masters Championship still walked away with $10,000. However, in regular Tour events, a missed cut equals 2 days of free labor.

One chap from my high school golf team plays on the Sunshine Tour. He has played 8 events and missed 5 cuts. Fortunately, he has a victory and 2 top 15 finishes. Otherwise, his financial advisor would be tearing their hair out.

Ultimately, if a professional wants a guaranteed payday they need to make the cut or be playing in a major tournament.

How Is Golf Purse Distribution?

When the PGA Tour determines the total purse for an event, they assign a percentage of the purse to each position. The Tour saves 18% of the pie for the winner,10.8% for 2nd place, and 6.8% for 3rd. The 4th placed golfer takes a 4.8% slice of the total, the 5th takes 4%, and the 6th 3.6%.

The 7th position walks away with 3.35%, 8th with 3.1%, and 9th with 2.9%. The tenth best player in the tournament enjoys 2.7% of the winnings. Prize money distribution continues up to the 70th placed golfer, assigned 0.2%.

Let us look at the 2022 Masters for a clearer picture of the purse distribution. Scottie Scheffler donned the green jacket and cashed a cheque for $2.7 million, which was 18% of the $15 million purse. 2nd place Rory McIlroy banked $1.62 million, 10.8% of the total purse.

Cam Smith and Shane Lowry tied for third and grabbed $870,000 each. The 3rd place prize of $1,020,000 is added to the 4th place value of $720,000. This totals $1,740,000. When divided by 2, it leaves us with $870,000. Obviously, these figures do not follow the pattern as the prize money is split between two positions.

Otherwise, the trend continues with Collin Morikawa, who finished alone in 5th. He took home $600,000 which is 4% of the total $15,000,000 purse.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.

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Identifying the best golf clubs for your game is a daunting task. Amateur golfers often lack the knowledge to make informed equipment decisions. That’s why I’ve taken the time to compile a list of the 10 best golf clubs for beginner to intermediate golfers.

The clubs in this guide are listed according to the setup of beginner to intermediate golfers’ bags. From the best sets of clubs, drivers, fairway woods, and hybrids to irons, wedges, and putters, you will find everything you need in this post.

In addition, I’ve thrown in a buying guide to teach you how to make better-informed decisions on your next purchase. When you have identified the best clubs for your golf bags, learn about which ball you should play. Everything you need to know in our post on the best golf balls for beginners.

What to Look For in a Good Club Set When You’re a Beginner to Intermediate Player

Budget

Golf clubs range in price, and if you do not have a budget, you can dive down a rabbit hole, looking at options you have no intention of acquiring. A complete entry-level set of golf clubs can set you back under $400. These options rise to over $1000 for setups with a robust offering.

The entry-level options typically offer 9 or 10 clubs and can leave you with gapping issues. A premium golf club set provides a well-balanced offering of long, mid and short game clubs.

The positive of both options is that it includes a bag. Usually, it is a standard carry bag. However, it still saves you from spending over $100 to purchase one separately.

Balanced Set Composition

Set composition takes much thought and planning. You can only house 14-clubs in your golf bag, which means you need to be strategic. If you pick too many long clubs, it leaves you with little room for wedges.

My suggestion is to set up your set to carry the maximum amount of wedges. This will improve your short game record, which is where it counts.

Here is an ideal setup for the average golfer:

Gapping Distance

Besides distributing your set between long, mid, and short clubs, you need to think about gapping. As the name suggests, it focuses on distance gaps in your bag, which are most prevalent among your fairway woods, hybrids, long irons, and wedges.

For example, my biggest challenge as an intermediate player was with my wedges. I carried a pitching, sand, and lob wedge.

However, I was so focused on boosting my long game that I neglected my short game. My home course had several short par 4’s, and I often found myself about 80-yards out on these holes.

That required me to hit a half pitching wedge (PW) or force a sand wedge (SW). The result was erratic distance control and several wasted strokes.

Another area of concern is the transition between your fairway woods and hybrids or irons. If you carry a 5-wood and your next longest club is a 5-iron, you may have distance gaps.

For instance, you hit a 5-wood 175-yards and a 5-iron 150-yards. That means that any shot from 160-yards requires an easy 5-wood or a forced 5-iron. This results in inaccurate distance control and increases the risk of catching your ball fat or thin.

Loft

I already touched on the impact of loft on your gapping. However, the loft also impacts your launch and carry distance. That rings particularly true in your long game.

Slow swinging intermediates and beginner golfers struggle to consistently launch stronger lofted clubs. The reduced loft delivers less spin, which is necessary to get your ball in the air. Slower swingers struggle to generate this spin and produce low flying shots and a loss of distance.

Beginners and intermediates should stick to weaker lofted drivers, fairway woods, and long irons. For example, a 10.5-degree driver is the strongest that you should consider. If it is still challenging to launch, opt for a 12-degree.

I do not recommend that casual golfers play with any 3-wood stronger than 15-degrees, while an 18 or 19-degree 5-wood will do the trick. While I prefer long irons, I suggest that casual golfers swap them out for the easier launching hybrids.

Shaft

Like loft, your preferred shaft is dictated by your swing speed. Players that produce less velocity require a lighter, more flexible shaft. Conversely, faster swingers need less flex and a heavier setup.

True Spec Golf and Golf Magazine compiled a table of what shafts suit which player. Their research indicates that golfers who swing a driver between 84 and 96 mph should use a regular flex shaft. That is where moderate swing speeds fit in.

Next, if your swing clocks between 72 and 83 mph, True Spec Golf suggests you try a senior flex shaft. Average swings below 72 mph are made for a ladies’ flex shaft.

When your shaft is too stiff for your swing, you struggle to optimize ball speed and spin, leading to a low launch. A stiff shaft can also cause you to leave the face open at contact and slice your shots.

On the other hand, a shaft with excess flex causes you to generate uncontrollable spin, leading to a ballooned shot.

If you are satisfied with your current golf clubs but could use new shafts, learn about the cost to reshaft your irons.

Forgiveness

As beginners and intermediate golfers, you need all the forgiveness you can get. When looking at drivers and fairway woods, opt for the product that contains a large sweet spot and delivers a high moment of inertia (MOI). MOI helps you maintain ball speed across the face and prompt straight shots.

Your irons should contain perimeter weighting. This stabilizes the clubhead through impact to maintain ball speed and resist twisting. Therefore, you enjoy straight, long shots.

Another element of forgiveness stems from a low center of gravity (CG). This helps you consistently get your ball in the air with longer clubs. Low CG is particularly prevalent in drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, and long irons.

Without forgiving clubs, your mishits would be catastrophic. As anyone who has played with blade irons will tell you.

Aside from lenient long clubs, you also need forgiveness from your putter. Think about designs that resist movement during your stroke. These putters prompt a square face through impact to keep your ball on line.

If you open or close your face at contact, it will send your ball along the unintended path, reducing your accuracy.

Distance

Distance applies to your driver, fairway wood, hybrid, long and mid-irons. To maximize distance, you need to generate accelerated ball speed at impact. When you strike the ball low off the face out of the heel or toe, it reduces your speed. That costs your precious yards.

Forgiving clubs work to boost your ball speed across the face for consistent distance. You still enjoy ample yardage and accuracy, even on mishits. These are the clubs that the average golfer needs because consistency is the only way to lower your handicap.

10 Best Clubs for Beginner to Intermediate Golfers

1. Callaway Strata – Best Complete Golf Club Set

Pros

• Robust set
• The long clubs prompt consistent distance
• Forgiving
• The set includes a sand wedge, unlike competitor products.
• Moderately affordable
• Comfortable carry bag

Cons

• There is a distance gap between the 3-wood and 4-hybrid

The Callaway Strata 16-piece set offers beginners and intermediates most of the clubs needed to navigate a golf course. This affordable set includes 11 golf clubs, 4-head covers, and a lightweight stand bag.

A titanium driver steps up to help the average golfer increase distance off the tee box and is followed by an aerodynamic 3-wood. There are slight gaps between the 3-wood and 4-hybrid,  the next longest club. However, for the set’s price, you should still have the budget for a 5-wood or 3-hybrid.

Furthermore, the irons and wedges are fitted with high flight technology crafted to boost your carry distance. A 6 is the strongest lofted iron in the set. It also includes a PW and SW.

A face-milled putter enhances your feel and generates immediate forward roll for optimal distance control on the green. Lastly, the set is housed in a lightweight stand bag that is comfortable to carry and contains sufficient pockets for storage.

2. Callaway Mavrik Max – Best Driver

Pros

• Prompts maximum ball speed
• Increased MOI
• Optimal clubhead speed
• Consistent distance
• Adjustable hosel

Cons

• It does not include an adjustable weight to alter the CG position

The Callaway Mavrik Max is the top driver on the list of best golf clubs for beginners and intermediates. It generates explosive ball speed and forgiveness. Plus, it possesses superior aerodynamics and high MOI and delivers long and accurate results.

Aside from its performance qualities, the Callaway Mavrik Max contains an adjustable hosel. This enables you to set up for your preferred launch by altering the degree of loft.

The Flash Face SS20 expands the area that prompts increased velocity across a wider area. Therefore, it delivers added consistency on all strikes.

Furthermore, the Mavrik Max produces a mid-level launch suitable for the average golfer. However, if you desire a higher flight, the Mavrik Max is probably more to your liking.

Callaway engineers shaped the head using their cyclone aero technology which restricts drag and ramps up clubhead speed.

Overall, you enjoy optimal clubhead and ball speed, amplified spin, and consistent results. It is precisely what the doctor ordered for the average golfer.

3. Cobra Golf Speedzone – Best 3-Wood

Pros

• Rapid ball speed
• Maximum distance
• Exceptional turf interaction
• Adjustable hosel
• Expanded sweet spot

Cons

• Strengthened standard loft
• Reduced workability

The Cobra Speedzone produces the turf interaction, high launch, and ball speed that the average golfer needs from a fairway wood. A CNC Milled face pushes the legal limit of ball speed to deliver additional yards off the tee and the deck.

Hollow rails amplify the flexibility of the face, which expands the sweet spot by 70%. That helps you maintain ball speed and restrict side spin on mishits. In addition, low and back CG encourages a high launch for added carry yards.

Furthermore, the 3-wood is fitted with dual Baffler rails to improve your turf interaction. Therefore, the club’s sole glides over fairways and rough to deliver clean contact for optimal carry distance.

Cobra’s engineers fitted the Speedzone with a My Fly 8 hosel that enables you to alter the club’s loft to your preference. The 14.5-degree standard loft may prove insufficient for casual golfers. However, you can weaken it by 1.5-degrees to set it to 16-degrees. That should suit most amateurs.

4. TaylorMade SIM Max – Best 5-Wood

Pros

• Prompts explosive ball speed
• The low CG encourages a high launch
• Increase clubface flex
• Encourages straight flight
• Delivers consistent distance

Cons

• The high launching nature can cause faster swingers to balloon their strikes
• Large head profile

The ultra-low CG in the TaylorMade SIM Max presents a high launching, low spinning 5-wood for impressive carry distance. In addition, its V-steel sole design delivers excellent turf interaction to ensure a clean strike from any lie on the golf course.

Engineers at TaylorMade employed C300 steel and Twist Face technology to construct the clubface. The C300 steel encourages accelerated ball speed, while the Twist Face combats off-center strikes. That reduces side spin that causes your ball to slice or hook, prompting a straight flight.

Moreover, a Thru-Slot Speed Pocket is inserted to escalate clubface flexibility. The added flex helps you maintain ball speed on strikes that are low off the face. As a result, you enjoy consistent ball speed and distance on all strikes.

5. Cobra Speedzone Hybrid – Best Hybrids

Pros

• Excellent turf interaction
• Enhanced MOI
• Expanded sweet spot
• Produces straight shots
• Optimal forgiveness

Cons

• The high launch nature may cause faster swingers to balloon their shots.
• The acoustics are slightly rough

The Cobra Speedzone glides through all turf conditions to deliver a clean strike and high launch. Dual-Baffler Rails bolster stability and improve turf interaction. They combine with Hollow Split Rails to expand the sweet spot by 70% for maximum forgiveness.

Low and back CG combine with the Rail system to produce a consistently high shot that lands softly. This helps you hold narrow greens for improved results on approach.

Furthermore, the engineers refined the profile of the head for exceptional aerodynamics and MOI. As a result, the club promotes straight shots for superior accuracy.

The Cobra Speezone hybrid is available in 19, 21, and 24-degree lofts. Plus, it is fitted with a graphite shaft. Lastly, the Cobra Connect Smart grip is the stock offering. It allows you to track your performance on the Arccos app.

6. TaylorMade SIM Max – Best Irons

Pros

• Promotes straight ball flight
• Highly forgiving
• Eradicates vibrations on off-center hits
• Flexible face
• Reduces side spin on heel and toe mishits

Cons

The TaylorMade SIM Max irons encourage direct flight, optimal distance, and forgiveness to improve your mid to short game. The set consists of a 5 through 9-iron and includes a pitching and gap wedge.

Speed Bridge Technology reinforces the top line of each iron for increased stability through impact. That helps the clubface maintain ball speed and a square face at contact. Therefore, it produces additional yards and accuracy.

Furthermore, an Echo Damping System absorbs vibrations from off-center strikes, providing a soft feel and pleasant audio.

TaylorMade inserted their signature Speed Pocket to amplify the flexibility of the clubface. This feature accelerates ball speed on strikes low off the clubface. As a result, you enjoy consistent distance.

Finally, the SIM Max irons feature a dilated sweet spot that restricts side spin on mishits for straighter flight.

7. Wilson Harmonized – Best Gap Wedge

Pros

• Affordable
• 2 loft options
• Enables you to further open the clubface
• Delivers a high, controlled shot

Cons

• The larger head profile may not appeal to all golfers.

Wilson golf products are often overlooked because of their affordable prices. However, their products offer excellent value for money, and they produce some of the best beginner golf clubs. The Harmonized wedge is a testament to that.

This affordable golf club possesses a classic blade shape with a slightly oversized profile. It serves to produce added forgiveness for the average golfer. Plus, a high polish finish gives the Harmonized gap wedge a classy appearance.

Wilson crafted the Harmonized wedge with a unique sole design that allows golfers to increase the open-angle of the clubface. The wedge induces a high-flying, rapid spinning shot with increased control around the green.

In addition, the stainless steel irons shaft provides a traditional feel, and it is set up to promote consistency with the club. The Harmonized gap wedge is available in two loft options, 50 or 52-degrees.

8. Callaway Mack Daddy CB – Best Sand Wedge

Pros

• Improved turf interaction
• Pleasant feel
• Performs exceptionally from the sand and thick rough
• Forgiving
• Produces aggressive spin

Cons

• Oversized profile
• Cavity back

The Callaway Mack Daddy CB is the epitome of a game improvement sand wedge. It is built to deliver forgiveness to mid and high handicappers.

The wedge is equipped with full-face grooves which impart aggressive spin on the golf ball. This delivers exceptional control for chip and bunker shots.

A W-grind is applied to the sand wedge to encourage a high shot and maximum forgiveness from the sand and thick rough.

In addition, soft carbon steel produces enabled the engineers to precisely precision CG for a desirable launch and exceptional turf interaction. Plus, this wedge ensures a subdued and pleasant feel to enhance your short game experience.

There are 2 Mack Daddy CB sand wedge shaft and loft options. The shaft is available in alloy steel and graphite, while you have the choice of a 54 or 56-degree sand wedge.

9. Cleveland CBX 2 – Best Lob Wedge

Pros

• Forgiving
• Produces aggressive spin
• Optimal turf interaction
• Increased MOI
• Soft feel

Cons

• The chunky profile may not appeal to some mid-handicappers

The Cleveland CBX 2 is a forgiving lob-wedge built for consistency for chip and flop shots. A hollow chamber sits towards the heel while additional mass is implanted in the toe. This combination raises the MOI of the wedge to deliver exceptional forgiveness on off-center strikes.

Furthermore, a dynamic sole boosts your performance from thick rough, sand, and tight lies. The optimal turf interaction causes your clubhead to glide through the turf and sand for clean contact.

In addition, a 4th generation Rotex face produces Cleveland’s sharpest Tour grooves, imparting aggressive spin on the ball. Therefore, you can get the ball spinning rapidly and stop it dead for improved short game accuracy.

The engineers at Cleveland also inserted a Gelback TPU, which restrains vibrations on mishits, for a soft feel. Finally, the CBX 2 is offered with a steel shaft and gives you the choice of a 58 or 60-degree lob wedge.

10. Odyssey White Hot OG 2 Ball – Best Putter

Pros

• Pleasant feel
• 2 ball alignment aid
• Prompts immediate forward roll
• Increased MOI
• Works to ensure improved accuracy

Cons

Your putter is arguably the most important golf club in your bag. When it fires, your scorecard looks healthy. The Odyssey White Hot 2 Ball putter helps beginners and intermediate golfers obtain a superior putting record.

The 2-part White Hot insert produces a pleasant feel and maximum forward roll at impact for added distance control. Plus, the mallet putter contains 2 balls which bolsters your alignment. Take advantage of the 2 Ball aid to ensure that your putter face points along your intended line.

In addition, Odyssey crafted the White Hot 2 Ball to deliver maximum MOI during your stroke. This means your putter resists twisting to remain square through impact. As a result, you are more likely to start your golf ball on the intended line.

Matt Stevens

Matt Callcott-Stevens started playing golf at the age of 4 when Rory Sabattini’s father put a 7-iron and putter in his hand. He has experienced all the highs and lows the game can throw at you and has now settled down as a professional golf writer. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf for 28 years.

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Did you know that approximately 60% of amateur golfers struggle with a slice off the tee?

This startling statistic results in countless penalty strokes, lost golf balls, and a whole lot of pure frustration on the golf course! If you happen to fight a banana slice or a dreaded duck hook, there is hope.

Most golf ball manufacturers make specific golf balls that help with inaccurate tee shots. These types of golf balls will help give you a straighter ball flight. Here are our Top 10 choices.

The 10 Best Golf Balls That Promise a Straighter Flight

1. Polara Ultimate Straight Self-Correcting Golf Balls

If you are in desperate need of a straighter ball flight, give the Polara Ultimate Straight balls a chance. Polara has been helping golfers with directional issues for more than 50 years. These golf balls will self-correct in midair, which means that the sidespin will change into more of a backspin.

Rick Shiels, who is famous for his golf videos on YouTube, put Polora’s ultimate straight golf balls to the test. Shiels was shocked at how straight these golf balls flew, especially since he was trying to hook or slice them. This just proves that Polara golf balls are worth the extra money if you want to hit the ball straighter.

Pros

• Reduces slicing and hooking by as much as 75%
• Allows golfers to hit more fairways and shoot lower scores
• Fewer inaccurate shots mean fewer lost golf balls
• Easy to use on the course by simply pointing the arrow on the golf ball towards your desired target
• Less aerodynamic lift than regular golf balls, which results in a lower but straighter ball flight off the tee

Cons

• Because of the self-correcting advanced technology, this ball won’t fly as far as a distance ball
• Costly investment of $3.75 per golf ball
• Deemed illegal by both the USGA and PGA for official tournament play

Price: $44.95 per dozen

Link to Buy on Amazon

2. Titleist Velocity Golf Balls

Attention all hardcore Titleist fans who struggle with slices or hooks! This is the best golf ball for you! The Titleist Velocity gives you the exceptional performance and feel that you’ve come to expect from such an iconic brand. The nicest thing about the Velocity though is that it cost almost 50% less than the Titleist Pro V1.

Pros

• Maximum distance off the tee because of the higher speed LSX core
• Special NAZ+ cover also adds ball speed without sacrificing softness on and around the greens
• 350 octahedral dimple design helps you achieve a higher and straighter ball flight
• Available in 4 colors
• Keeps a low spin rate on all larger clubs like the driver and fairway woods
• Great value at only $2.50 per ball, which is outstanding for an established brand like Titleist

Cons

• May not have a low enough compression rating for golfers with a slow swing speed

Price: $29.99 per dozen

Link to Buy on Amazon

3. Bridgestone Golf e12 Contact Golf Balls

Bridgestone not only makes great tires, but they’re also an outstanding golf ball manufacturer. The e12 contact is specifically made to only fly straight. The specialty Contact Force dimples help reduce slices and correct hooks on all shots.

Pros

• Efficient energy transfer between the club head and the golf ball at impact
• Soft feel helps make chipping and putting easier
• Straight flight off the tee with reduced sidespin
• Engineered by Bridgestone’s elite Research and Development Team.
• Endorsed by Tiger Woods, Bryson DeChambeau, Matt Kuchar, and Lexi Thompson

Cons

• Not quite as soft as the Bridgestone e6 model

Price: $29.97 per dozen

Link to Buy on Amazon

4. Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls

The Callaway Supersoft is an all-around incredible golf ball. It lives up to its billing as being super long, super straight, and super soft. The price is also hard to beat at only a little over $2 per ball.

Pros

• Affordable option from a reputable brand like Callaway
• Hybrid cover helps increase ball speed, durability, and launch
• Hex aerodynamics helps the ball fly higher and straighter with less drag
• Low Compression rating of 38 is ideal for golfers with slow swing speeds
• Incredibly soft feel on all short game shots

Cons

• Too soft for folks with moderate or fast swing speeds

Price: $24.97 per dozen

Link to Buy on Amazon

5. Wilson Ultra 500 Straight Golf Ball

We have to admit that we are a bit partial to Wilson golf balls. They fly straight with plenty of distance and they don’t cost an arm and a leg. Wilson has been around for quite some time and they sponsor 2019 U.S. Open champion Gary Woodland, which just further adds to their credibility.

Pros

• Two-piece ball that employs various technologies to reduce sidespin, which results in a straight ball flight
• Core is made of titanium, which has been proven to increase ball speed at impact which increases distance
• Cut proof cover strikes the perfect balance between durability and playability
• Incredibly low price of only $1.40 per ball

Cons

• Compression rating of 90 is probably too high for slower swing speeds and high handicappers

Price: $20.98 per pack of 15

Link to Buy on Amazon

6. FLIGHTPATH Premium Golf Balls

Here’s a new brand that may be worth trying out during your next round of golf. Flightpath has specifically designed their Tracer model golf ball to fly straight so that you wind up in the center of the fairway more often. It wouldn’t surprise us if Flightpath ends up being the next big thing in the golf industry.

Pros

• Made up of 3 layers instead of just 2, which gives this ball some added softness and increases the accuracy of wedge shots
• The urethane cast outer cover holds up remarkably well and produces just the right amount of spin
• High-speed central core helps maximize distance off the tee
• Glossy white finish makes this ball easy to find on the course
• Large dimple design gives you a normal ball flight on each shot

Cons

• New to the market; Only 1 review so far on Amazon

Price: $24.99 per dozen

Link to Buy on Amazon

7. Maxfli StraightFli Golf Balls

The Maxfli brand doesn’t have a ton of commercials like Titleist or Bridgestone so some golfers are not familiar with them. However, Maxfli has been making high-quality golf balls for more than 80 years. The Maxfli StraightFli has been lab-tested to go 20% straighter than regular golf balls.

Pros

• Unique dimple pattern that consists of 374 large and small dimples to further improve ball flight
• These golf balls not only fly straight but long as well
• Ionomer cover strikes the perfect balance between spin rate, durability, feel, and control
• Deemed legal for USGA tournaments
• Available in a variety of colors

Cons

• Not available in a standard 12-pack like most brands

Price: $50.76 for 24 pack (matte orange color)

Link to Buy on Amazon

8. ONCORE GOLF – ELIXR Tour Ball

Here’s another brand that is kind of flying under the radar but is worth trying. Oncore developed the ELIXR to compete with premium golf balls like the Titleist Pro V1 and TaylorMade TP5. The ELIXR won gold in Golf Digest’s 2019 Hot List awards, which proves that it’s a viable choice.

Pros

• Specifically designed for a low spin rate with the driver to help boost accuracy on tee shots
• Moderate to high spin rate for all iron shots, which also helps increase accuracy
• Great choice for windy days on the golf course
• Urethane cover holds up well but has a soft feel
• Great price of only $2.50 per ball

Cons

• 85 compression rating may be too high for golfers with slower swing speeds
• Some have commented that it doesn’t spin enough on chips and pitches

Price: $29.99 per dozen (Lime Green)

Link to Buy on Amazon

9. Piper Green Golf Premium Golf Balls

Piper golf balls haven’t been on the market very long but they are already creating quite the buzz in the golf world. The Piper Green two-piece ball is an excellent choice for folks with slower swing speeds.

Another neat thing about this ball is that Piper offers it with an alignment aid in four different colors (black, blue, gold, and green). Make sure to match the color with your swing speed. For example, the green is for slow swing speed while the gold and black are for fast swing speeds.

Pros

• Built to produce maximum distance off the tee
• Great value at only $2.50 each
• Alignment aid helps improve the accuracy of your putts
• Dupont surlyn cover is very durable and feels outstanding
• Designed for a low spin rate to reduce the severity of slices and hooks

Cons

• Not enough spin for advanced players

Price: $24.99 per dozen

Link to Buy on Amazon

10. Cut Blue Golf Balls

Cut golf balls were designed to give the average golfer an affordable ball that still performed well on the course. The Cut Blue has a lower spin rate, which helps it fly much straighter off the tee than other golf balls. At only $1.66 per ball, why not give them a shot?

Pros

• Urethane cover is resilient to scuffs and nicks
• 314 dimples that help maximize distance off the tee
• Conforms to USGA standards so you can use them in official tournaments
• Lower ball flight is perfect for windy conditions

Cons

• Not as much distance as other golf balls on the market

Price: $19.97 per dozen

Link to Buy on Amazon

Mike Noblin

Mike has been involved with sports for over 30 years. He’s been an avid golfer for more than 10 years and is obsessed with watching the Golf Channel and taking notes on a daily basis. He also holds a degree in Sports Psychology.

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