By: Alex Smolinski
With so many new clubs hitting the market in 2012, it can be difficult to figure out which gear fits your game the best. In this article we break down the techo-speak and what we like about the hottest new irons from the game’s leading brands.
TaylorMade RocketBallz
Price: $899.99
Technically Speaking: The 3,4 and 5 irons feature a two-peice metalwood-inspired construction that creates a low center of gravity and high COR. The face of the club has been re-engineered with a new Toe-Bar that promotes straighter shots by controlling face-flexion.
Why We Like It: The new vibration and sound control system gives the TaylorMade Rocketballz irons an excellent sound and feel.
Titleist AP1 712
Price: $799.99
Technically Speaking: The AP1 irons from Titleist have an increased MOI, providing a solid feel and forgiveness with longer irons without sacrificing shot-control.
Why We Like It: Three shaft options are available to choose from specializing in distance, spin rate and launch angle.
Mizuno MP-59
Price: $999.99
Technically Speaking: The MP-59 irons from Mizuno are made of Grain Flow Forged 1025E “Pure Select” mild carbon steel and pure titanium. Forged Ti Muscle Technology promotes a solid feel on contact and increased forgiveness.
Why We Like It: The lightweight pure titanium places the optimal amount of thickness behind the impact area, while at the same time providing additional perimeter weighting for ideal playability.
Cleveland 588 CB
Price: $999.99
Technically Speaking: The 588 CB irons from Cleveland Golf are precision forged from 1025 carbon steel and feature a progressive cavity back as well as an increased blade length.
Why We Like It: A thicker topline and more offset inspire confidence upon impact. The 588 CB irons are incredibly soft, yet still provide the solid feel sought by experienced players.
Callaway RAZR X Black
Price: $799.99
Technically Speaking: RAZR Technology redistributes weight in the back cavity, creating a lower, deeper center of gravity that promotes distance as well as forgiveness. The VFT Power System increases ball speed.
Why We Like It: The black PVD finish on the RAZR X Black irons reduces glare and produces an appealing and distinct look.
Cobra AMP
Price: $699.99
Technically Speaking: The new V-Skid Sole Design is a versatile mid-width sole that gets increasingly narrow in both the toe and heel of the club, promoting accuracy and consistency when it comes to both distance and shot placement.
Why We Like It: The Advanced Materal Placement (AMP) strategically positions weight to support distance in long irons and consistency in short irons.
