Hybrid Irons: The Easy Way Out?
Having a hybrid iron (or a few) in your golf kit, has become the accepted norm, rather than the exception to the rule. Most golfers, even some of the hardened PGA professionals, have come to realize the benefits of using hybrids, rather than regular irons.
Compared to the regular longer irons, hybrids are much easier to hit. This is partly due to the center of gravity being further back than on a normal long iron. the result is a slightly better launch angle, adding some more distance to your shot.
Besides the center of gravity being further back, hybrid irons also come standard with slightly longer shafts. This makes for a “bigger” swing, and using the extra leverage to improve impact, and drive the ball further.
Hybrid irons, compared to regular irons, are much more versatile. The hybrid can be used in a number of different situations, including fairway bunkers, and long approach shots on par three and four holes. In the odd situation where accuracy is crucial, it can even be used to tee off with.
As with many great things in life, however, there has to be a catch. In this case, the club’s performance poses a situation: The extra distance attained, will leave you with a “distance gap” somewhere in your set. Considering the capabilities of each iron your set includes, you will have a gap somewhere between one regular iron and the next hybrid. You have one of two choices: You can either decide to add another club to fill the gap, or you could go for a whole hybrid set – imagine the impact on your game…..
The more difficult way out would be to decide on a compromise course by course. Take a look at the layout, the obstacles it presents, and the length. Judging by the situations you expect, decide which club has to be dropped in favor of another. The expected conditions would, for instance, have you make a choice between having a five iron, and taking an extra wedge.
Hybrid irons, thanks to cutting edge technology, offer advantages that conventional irons cannot match. Although these advantages are best appreciated by recreational players, more and more seasoned golfers, including well known PGA players, are being seen carrying hybrids in their sets. Originally, hybrids were designed to help the average golfer derive more pleasure from the game. There are, however, more and more “pro” hybrids hitting the shelves lately. It seem they are taking over.
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