We Break Down Which Irons You Should Be Looking For As A Mid-Handicap Golfer
By Ryan Gager
If you consider yourself a mid-handicap golfer, you know how important it is to find the right set of irons to improve your game. In this edition of Club Explorers Brad Skupaka and Connie Chen test and provide feedback on the three best irons for mid-handicap golfers. These irons are designed to strike the perfect balance between forgiveness and distance, making them ideal for players looking to take their game to the next level. Let’s dive into the top three irons for mid-handicap golfers in 2023.
When it comes to mid-handicap irons, they are typically smaller than max game improvement irons but still incorporate some technology to help with off-center hits and increase distance. One common feature among these irons is the hollow body construction, which makes them act like mini drivers. The shots hit with these irons go far, both in the center and on off-center hits.
PING i525 Irons
Number three on the list for mid-handicap irons is the PING i525. This iron boasts a miraging steel face, which increases ball speeds and helps with distance on off-center hits. Its hollow body construction makes it act like a mini driver, providing impressive distance on well-struck shots. The steel fiber i95 stiff shaft complements this iron, offering a lighter weight option that enhances overall distance. Connie noted that the i525 has a slim top line, giving it a clean and sleek look from address, which instills confidence. The club’s forgiveness, distance consistency, and impressive design make it an excellent choice for mid-handicap players.
Looking at the numbers, the PING i525 performed consistently with similar distances across the board. The carry distance ranged from 133 to 140 yards for Connie, showing good left-to-right consistency. While the launch angle was a bit low, it can be adjusted with options like retrospect or power spectral.
If you missed it, Joe Hooks came to GOLFTEC for an iron fitting. Be sure to check out his results here!
Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal Pro Irons
Coming in at number two, the Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal Pro is a refined and compact iron that maintains its forgiving qualities. The iron’s blade has been made smaller compared to previous versions, providing a more player-like profile. Mizuno has incorporated nickel chromoly into the design, creating a strong yet soft feel that retains the benefits of hollow body construction. With a slightly stronger loft compared to the PING i525, the Hot Metal Pro delivers increased ball speeds and distance. Connie noticed that the head feels slightly lighter, enabling her to swing harder while enjoying crisp and responsive feedback at impact. For mid-handicap golfers seeking a balance between forgiveness and shot control, the Hot Metal Pro is an excellent option.
Looking at the numbers, the Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal Pro shows an increase in ball speed and distance compared to the PING i525. The carry distance is just under 150 yards, and the launch angle is slightly higher. The consistency left to right is still good, and the descent angles are closer to the desired range. Overall, the Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal Pro is a solid option for mid-handicappers looking for more distance without sacrificing control.
Callaway Paradym Irons
Our top pick for mid-handicap irons is the Callaway Paradym, designed for optimum distance without sacrificing feel and control. Callaway strategically positioned tungsten throughout the club head to optimize launch for each iron in the set. The urethane microspheres injected into the club head ensure a solid feel despite the hollow body construction. This iron provided the highest launch angles among the three, giving players the ability to achieve maximum height and distance. Connie praised the club’s soft feel at impact and noted that it instills confidence with its appearance. If you’re looking to gain significant yardage without compromising on looks or feel, the Callaway Paradym is a standout choice.
Looking at the numbers, the Callaway Paradym proves to be the longest iron, with an average carry distance of 153 yards. The ball speed is slightly higher, and the launch angle is the highest among the three irons tested. The Callaway Paradym offers great distance and a solid feel, making it an excellent choice for mid-handicappers.
As a mid-handicap golfer, selecting the right irons is crucial to improving your game. The PING i525, Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal Pro, and Callaway Paradym are top-notch options that blend technology with sleek designs. These irons offer the forgiveness needed for off-center hits while delivering impressive distance on well-struck shots. Whether you prefer a slim top line, a compact head, or maximum height off the tee, these clubs cater to a wide range of preferences.
When choosing your next set of irons, don’t forget to seek professional guidance from a certified Coach at your local GOLFTEC to ensure a custom fit that optimizes your performance on the course. So, mid-handicappers, equip yourselves with one of these irons and take your game to new heights. Happy golfing!
For more content on irons, check out more videos below from GOLFTEC, including the Top 3 Most Forgiving Irons of 2023, and how to gain distance with your irons.
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