As a beginner or high-handicap golfer, finding the right set of irons can significantly improve your game and consistency on the course. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the best set of irons specifically tailored to the needs of high-handicap players, with a focus on key factors such as forgiveness, high launch, budget, shaft material, and clubhead size.
The best irons for high handicappers and beginners should offer exceptional forgiveness, allowing you to still have a decent shot even if your swing is not perfect. Additionally, high-launch capabilities will help you achieve greater distance and accuracy, allowing you to lower your scores. In our list of the best irons, we’ll be evaluating a range of options, taking into consideration varying budgets and golfers’ preferences in terms of shaft and clubhead size.
The best irons for high handicap golfers we’ll be reviewing include the Callaway Mavrik, Cleveland Launcher XL Halo, Mizuno JPX923, Lazrus Golf, Ping G425, Stix, and TaylorMade Stealth. These irons have been specifically designed with high-handicap and beginner golfers in mind, ensuring that you’ll be able to find a set that perfectly fits your needs and style of play.
What Should a High Handicapper Look for in a Set of Irons?
As a high handicapper, there are several key factors to consider when choosing a set of irons. In this section, we will discuss the importance of forgiveness, high launch, budget, shaft, and clubhead size.
Forgiveness
One of the most critical aspects a high handicapper should look for in a set of irons is forgiveness. Forgiving irons can help minimize the effects of off-center hits, allowing you to maintain distance and accuracy. Look for irons with a large sweet spot, perimeter weighting, and a low center of gravity.
High Launch
High launch is another essential aspect for high handicappers. Your main goal as a beginner or high handicap golfer is to get the ball up in the air. You won’t be doing yourself any good if you skip your ball on ground down the fairway. Irons designed for high launch can produce more towering shots, giving you better greenside control and improved stopping power on the green. Low-profile long irons and wider soles can help achieve a higher launch angle.
Budget
It’s essential to establish a budget when shopping for irons, as prices can vary significantly between different models and brands. You can still find quality irons at affordable prices tgat provide plenty of forgiveness and distance without breaking the bank.
Shaft
The shaft is another vital aspect to consider, as it can significantly impact your game. High handicappers and beginners should consider opting for lighter shafts, such as graphite, to help generate more clubhead speed and increase their distance. Remember that steel shafts may provide more feedback on ball impact, while graphite shafts may feel more smooth overall. We summed up graphite vs steel shafts in a previous guide that we highly recommend!
Clubhead Size
Lastly, the size of the clubhead plays a crucial role in the performance of your irons. Larger clubheads typically offer more forgiveness and boost your confidence at address. Look for irons with a larger clubhead and heavier mass low in the clubhead to increase the stability on off-center hits. When we talk about forgiveness in the clubhead, we mean that if your clubhead doesn’t hit the ball at the center, you will not sacrifice as much distance and control.
By considering these five crucial factors, you can choose a set of irons that will help enhance your game and allow you to enjoy the sport even more.
The 7 Best Irons for High Handicap & Beginners
Callaway Mavrik Irons
Callaway Mavrik Irons are designed with high handicappers in mind, featuring Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to optimize ball speed and launch angles. These irons have large clubheads to promote forgiveness and a low center of gravity for increased launch. You’ll appreciate the wide sole that helps you make cleaner contact with the ball. The price for the Mavrik irons is attractive for high handicap golfers and beginners. We believe strongly that you will hold on to the Mavrik irons well after your beginner phase of golf.
Cleveland Launcher XL Halo
The Cleveland Launcher XL Halo Irons are designed to provide maximum forgiveness and high launch. What makes the Launcher XLs stick out is their hollow construction that increases the perimeter weighting while the low center of gravity promotes consistent launch. This iron is super attractive for beginners with the technology that Cleveland built into the clubs. The irons also feature a V-shaped sole that will help your swings feel even smoother, which will help a ton as you develop your swing technique.
Mizuno JPX923
Mizuno has long been a renowned brand for golf irons, and the JPX923 Hot Metal HL Irons are no exception. These irons offer great distance combined with impressive stopping power and a visually appealing design. They have a wide sole, promoting a more confident swing. Keep in mind, though, that these irons are on the pricier side.
Lazrus Golf Irons
Lazrus Golf Irons provide probably the most affordable solution for high handicap players. Despite being budget-friendly, these irons still offer solid performance and great forgiveness. They are perfect for those just starting to invest in their golf equipment. One downside, however, is the limited selection of shaft options. We have been pleasantly surprised by how well built Lazrus irons are at their price point. We can’t recommend Lazrus golf enough if you are looking for quality at a budget price. The Lazrus wedges are also a great companion to the iron set.
Ping G425
Ping G425 Irons are known for their high forgiveness and consistent performance. These irons utilize metalwood-style face technology, leading to increased ball speeds and longer, higher-launching shots. The downside is their somewhat bulky design, which might not suit players who prefer a more streamlined appearance.
Stix Irons
Stix is another brand in the golf industry that has caught many off guard. With their simplistic and modern design, partnered with quality construction, the Stix irons are designed to easily cater to the needs of high handicap. These irons offer fantastic forgiveness and a comfortable feel without breaking the bank. The lower price point may mean that the quality isn’t quite on par with more premium brands, but they could be a great option for novice players.
TaylorMade Stealth
TaylorMade Stealth Irons are known for their high-performance features and cutting-edge design. These irons boast a forged construction with a thin face for increased ball speed and distance, as well as a lower center of gravity for an optimal launch. The Stealth irons stand out from the crowd with their ability to provide high launch for your shots. While they are on the expensive side, the Stealth Irons are suitable for players looking for a blend of forgiveness and versatility in their clubs. We think that you can stick with the TaylorMade Stealth irons for years to come and even as a mid-handicap golfer.
Conclusion
In your quest to find the best irons for high handicap golfers and beginners, there are several options to consider. No matter what your preference or budget, there’s a set of irons out there that will help you elevate your game and lower your scores. Research these options, try them out if possible, and make a decision based on your own unique needs and goals. Remember, your ultimate goal is to enjoy your time on the course and steadily improve your performance. With the right set of irons, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that.
Frequently Asked Questions
What number of irons should my set have?
The number of irons in your set depends on your skill level and personal preferences. Most standard iron sets include 7 irons, ranging from a 4-iron to a pitching wedge. However, high handicappers often benefit from fewer long irons and more hybrid clubs, as these provide increased forgiveness and are easier to hit. If you’re a beginner or high handicap golfer, try maxing your irons out at 5 – PW and then use hybrid irons for your 4 iron and higher. Aim to have a mix of irons that covers various distances and situations on the golf course.
Do wedges come with iron sets?
In many cases, iron sets do include a pitching wedge, which is useful for making higher, shorter shots near the green. However, other specialized wedges, such as sand wedges and gap wedges, typically do not come with iron sets. You may need to purchase these wedges separately to complete your club set and improve your short game. It’s important to have a variety of wedges to handle different scenarios around the greens.
Which iron in a set is the easiest to hit?
For high handicappers, the easiest irons to hit are generally those with a higher number, such as a 7, 8, or 9 iron. These clubs have more loft, which makes it simpler to launch the ball into the air and achieve consistent ball flight. As you progress in your golf journey, you may find that each club has its own level of difficulty, and your personal preference will ultimately dictate which irons work best for you. Practice with various irons to discover which ones provide the most confidence when hitting shots on the course. Remember that a proper grip and stance to the golf ball is also key to consistency in your game.