We take a closer look at the best hybrid golf clubs for high handicappers.
You should never be too proud to accept a bit of help because golf can be very, very hard. Manufacturers are well aware of this, of course, which is why they design clubs for golfers of all levels. If clubs are easier to hit, it stands to reason that you’ll enjoy the game more, and who doesn’t want to enjoy playing golf more?! For that reason, we have put together a definitive list on the game’s best hybrid golf clubs, and have narrowed it down, in this guide, to the models that will appeal more to the high handicap player or beginner golfers.
Typically, hybrids are designed to help golfers hit better approach shots from long range. They are also used to help you dig the ball out from difficult lies, as they can be a more forgiving option to use, compared to a 4 or 5-iron. Many top professionals carry a hybrid with them during tournament weeks over a long iron because they too can also benefit from the forgiving advantages hybrids offer. If you’re a high handicap golfer, you’re more likely to reap the rewards of from using a hybrid, as these clubs deliver forgiveness and inspire confidence when you look down the shaft, which you might not get when holding a scary looking 3-iron.
The good news is that you have plenty of options available to you – so let’s take a closer look at the best hybrid golf clubs for high handicappers. Alternatively also take a look at our guides on the most forgiving hybrids and the best hybrid golf clubs for seniors as well.
BEST HYBRID GOLF CLUBS FOR HIGH HANDICAPPERS
CLEVELAND LAUNCHER XL HALO HYBRID
Our top pick
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 19°, 21°, 24°, 27°
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ Easy to hit from any type of lie
+ Provides naturally high launch conditions
+ Forgiving on off-centre strikes
REASONS TO AVOID
– Impact sound is on the louder side
It is widely acknowledged that the Cleveland Launcher XL Halo Hybrid is among the hybrids that are the most accommodating to drivers.
During the design process, the primary objective was to provide golfers with the ability to escape bad lays with power and precision; but, did it meet our expectations in terms of performance? It was the big head design that not only provided us confidence at address but also made it easier to smash the club out of a variety of lies. Well, we definitely felt that it delivered in terms of forgiveness, and we attribute this to the fact that it was designed in such a way. Furthermore, it played incredibly well on mishits and was able to get the ball into the air in a short amount of time. In addition, despite the fact that its primary selling point is its ability to play well from poor lies, it also performs exceptionally well from the tee and the fairway.
Now, stronger players would prefer a smaller head to gaze down on, but this aesthetic design is undeniably advantageous for players with larger handicaps. Another feature that we enjoyed about the club was its blue and black finish, which made it stand out from the crowd.
COBRA DARKSPEED HYBRID
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 17º, 19º, 21º, 24º, 28º
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ Very fast ball speed
+ High launch produces long carry distances
+ modern , sleek club design
REASONS TO AVOID
– Long blade length from heel to toe may not suit all
A somewhat longer blade length, a compact footprint, and a little more toe-heavy appearance from the top are all characteristics that are associated with Cobra hybrids. The Darkspeed hybrid has a look that is immediately recognisable as being characteristic of Cobra hybrids. The hybrid model of the Darkspeed family has been given the same stealth-like finish that has been applied to the other members of the Darkspeed family. This finish gives the hybrid a contemporary and stylish appearance. The matte dark grey crown, combined with the mix of black and grey tones, makes this hybrid one of the most attractive hybrids that can be seen, according to the address.
Some of the same technology that can be found in the fairway wood line has been incorporated in the Darkspeed hybrid, and it serves a pretty nice function. Both the PWR-bridge technology and the H.O.T face technology continue to deliver exceptional ball speed figures, and as a result, this hybrid is immediately one of the longest hybrids that I have tried so far in this year.
During our testing conducted indoors on a Trackman 4 launch monitor using Titleist Pro V1 golf balls, we saw an average carry distance of 243 yards and ball speeds that were just slightly above the 150 mph mark. Considering that my club speed was somewhere around 103 miles per hour, these results are really astounding for someone with a head that is 19 degrees.
TAYLORMADE QI10 MAX HYBRID
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 20º, 23º, 27º, 31º, 35º
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ Those seeking confidence through a larger sized head
+ Provides a high towering ball flight
+ Perimeter weighting creates maximum forgiveness
REASONS TO AVOID
– Bonded head lacks ability to make adjustments to set-up
The low centre of gravity (CG) combined with perimeter weighting is one of the most notable characteristics of the Qi10 Max hybrid. This combination encourages a high launch, which in turn maximises carry distance, particularly when struck from the deck.
Using a design that features a shallower face, the engineers at TaylorMade have created a club that, in our opinion, will instill confidence behind the ball at address and will eliminate the jitters that arise when playing onto a green from a distance. We observed this right away when we were performing our testing out on the golf course, particularly from the rough, and the V-Steel sole helped cut through the wet grass, which resulted in a ball flight that was similar to what it would have been like if the ball had been teed up!
In comparison to hybrids like as the Stealth 2 HD, the Qi10 Max hybrid features a premium colour palette that is comprised of silver and blue tones, which contribute to the device’s eye-catching appearance. In spite of the fact that the head is bonded, the face does not sit too closed at address, which is something that a lot of better players dislike.
BEST FOR ANY LEVEL
PING G430 HYBRID
A fantastic golf club for any ability level
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 17º, 19º, 22º, 26º, 30º, 34º
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ Plenty of forgiveness across the face
+ Clean aesthetics
+ Produced surprisingly fast ball speeds
REASONS TO AVOID
– Fairly challenging to shape shots
Ping has upgraded the looks of the G430 by adding some new white and green detailing to the sole of the club, which offers a really premium feel. This is in contrast to the previous model, which was a hybrid that had a very stylish appearance. Its sleek matte black head seems very crisp when placed behind the ball, and despite its small appearance, it inspires confidence. This is because the club has a shallow field, which serves to open up the face of the club.
The brand-new Carbonwrap technology that Ping has included into this club in order to make it more forgiving is the cause of its sleek matte appearance. The most important way in which this new invention functions is by lowering the club’s centre of gravity by decreasing the weight that is located in the crown of the club. Therefore, according to Ping, this contributes to the production of superior launch angles and forgiving. During our testing, we found that the Carbonwrap head on the G430 provided a performance that we found to be enjoyable. We discovered that distance was not an issue, and the ball seemed particularly quick off the club face.
When it comes to feel, Ping has taken into consideration the feedback they have received in the past about the G425 clubs. As a result, they have adjusted the hybrid to produce a less metallic sound when it makes contact with the ball. The G430, on the other hand, offers a lot more pleasing crunch when you make contact with the golf ball. However, when it came to striking the ball out of the rough, the actual playability of this club became apparent. The club continued to deliver strong and powerful flights even when it was struck incorrectly.
BEST FOR DISTANCE
CALLAWAY APEX UW
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 17°, 19°, 21°
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ Can do the job of a higher lofted fairway wood and a strong hybrid
+ Longer than a five wood, easier to hit than a 2-iron or utility iron
REASONS TO AVOID
– Looks are plain for such a high-tech club
Callaway introduced a long and forgiving forged iron for better players in 2014, which resulted in the opening of an entirely new market for the company. Now, Callaway is seeking to establish a new gear niche with the debut of the Apex UW (Utility Wood), a club that looks and flies like a fairway wood but delivers the versatility and precision of the greatest hybrids. This club is called the Apex UW.
Because it is made up of vintage-looking components, it might not be immediately apparent where the technology is located until you approach the soleplate, which is silver-grey in colour and has the appearance of composite carbon. Featuring a MIM’D Tungsten weight that weighs 18 grammes per club and is positioned behind two Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades in a neutral front position near to the face, Callaway claims that this weight produces a neutral CG (centre of gravity) configuration, which results in greater launch, steeper landing angles, and improved stopping power.
During the test, it was impressively long, reaching around 25 yards beyond shots that were struck similarly with other prominent brand hybrids that were tested in the same round. The Apex UW has the potential to compete with the very finest fairway woods available on the market, regardless of the wind conditions.
CALLAWAY PARADYM AI SMOKE HL HYBRID
One of the most forgiving hybrids we have ever tested
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 18º, 21º, 24º, 27º, 30º, 33º
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ High, towering ball flight
+ Easy to launch from the rough
+ Forgiving, large foot-print
REASONS TO AVOID
– Hard to keep the flight down when playing into wind
An additional model that is part of the Paradym Ai Smoke lineup is the HL hybrid, which is essentially the version that is easier to operate and provides an effortless high launch. As forgiving as the conventional head is, the HL takes things to an even higher level owing to the newly developed Ai Smart Face. This face features many sweet spots that are dispersed around behind the face to guarantee that miss-hit shots fly very similarly to those that are struck out of the centre.
Specifically, it created a high, towering ball flight that landed on greens from a considerable distance in an exceedingly soft manner. This was the case out of the rough. The club is tough to fly down in the wind, and as a consequence, there is a degree of control that is lost. However, this is the trade-off that comes with this situation. However, the adjustable hosel may be of some use in this regard.
When I was on the ground, the wider footprint really instilled a sense of confidence, and the classic ‘V’ alignment aid that was located on the matte crown made it simple for me to set up in a position that was square to my chosen target. In general, this is the ideal hybrid for golfers who have slower swing speeds and are looking for a simple launch. It is also ideal for right-handed golfers who want to see the ball go from right to left. It is without a doubt going to become one of the most forgiving hybrids and one of the finest hybrids for elderly citizens throughout the course of the year owing to the fact that it is so simple to use.
TITLEIST TSR1 HYBRID
An adjustable model that is easy to launch
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 20°, 23°, 26°, 29°
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ Wood-like profile
+ Consistent accuracy
+ Easy to launch
REASONS TO AVOID
– Not well suited to faster swinging players
– Fitting is key to maximize performance
When compared to the TSR2 and TSR3 hybrid models that belong to the same family, the TSR1 is intended to be used by players who have a swing speed that is less than 90 miles per hour in order to encourage improved speed and launch.
When viewed from a distance, it exudes an air of self-assurance, with the aesthetics being especially neat and sophisticated. Nevertheless, the ultra-lightweight design of this hybrid, which, during our testing, we found to be incredibly beautifully weighted, is what truly differentiates it from other models. Although it was not so light that we had the impression that we may lose control when we made a swing, it was also not so heavy that it was impossible to build up speed.
The positioning of the deep centre of gravity assisted with forgiveness and also delivered on ball speed, which was a very positive performance. The most impressive thing that we saw was the towering ball flight that was formed when the ball hit the ground. The ball typically went straight and a considerable distance out from the clubface, and each stroke felt quite substantial as it left the clubface.
TAYLORMADE STEALTH 2 HD HYBRID
Twist Face technology helps to neutralise miss-hits
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 18º, 21º, 24º, 27º
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
View at Amazon
View at Amazon
REASONS TO BUY
+ Inviting design at address
+ Effortless in producing high launch
+ Superb out of tricky lies
REASONS TO AVOID
– Those who turn the ball over may struggle
A terrific long-iron substitute, the TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Hybrid is an excellent option for golfers who may have difficulty achieving ideal launch with their clubs. Due to the fact that it is so forgiving, it is considered to be the finest club for high-handicap golfers. It is a member of the Stealth 2 family of hybrids, which includes the Stealth 2 and the Stealth 2 Plus Rescue Hybrid. As is the case with the other Stealth 2 hybrids, the HD has a sophisticated appearance, which is a direct result of its glossy black carbon crown. It is likely that many players with less expertise will find the club head to be appealing since it is positioned behind the ball in a somewhat off-set position and sits flush on the grass. In keeping with the motif that was seen on the new Stealth 2 line, the club features the signature red and black hue, which takes on an incredible appearance when viewed from a distance.
As is the case with a significant number of the best hybrid golf clubs, the Stealth 2 HD offers exceptional mobility through the grass as a result of the V Steel Design that is installed on the sole of the club. We were able to pluck the ball out of a variety of lays with relative ease, and the Twist Face technology also assisted in neutralising miss-hits, which enabled us to locate a greater number of fairways and greens along the course. As a result of its reduced centre of gravity, the HD is also a fantastic choice for players with higher handicaps. As a result of the weighting of the club being dragged rearward, the HD is able to launch the ball a great deal higher. Additionally, it adds a tiny draw bias to each shot, which is wonderful if you are the type of golfer who frequently misses to the right. All things considered, this was a pretty dependable club to play with, as it provided great launches and tremendous forgiveness all around.
WILSON DYNAPOWER HYBRID
Extremely easy to launch
SPECIFICATIONS
Lofts: 19º, 22º, 25º, 28º
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
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REASONS TO BUY
+ Extremely easy to launch
+ Superb from the rough
+ Powerful impact sensation
REASONS TO AVOID
– Large footprint won’t suit the eye of the better player
– Not adjustable for loft
One of the hybrids that is now available on the market that is considered to be one of the most forgiving is the Wilson Dynapwr hybrid, which features a matte black finish that gives it a very sleek appearance. The club’s profile truly does offer confidence behind the golf ball, despite the fact that it has flashes of red on its sole and comes with a very premium appearance. If you are seeking to target the greens from a distance, the club provides really nice ball flights, which is quite impressive in terms of performance. In addition, the draw bias that is built into this club makes it a fantastic choice for those who are having difficulty with their accuracy on the fairways at the course.
In addition to that, it comes with a clubface that is extremely forgiving and features a PKR2 design, which makes it possible for off-center shots to fly more consistently and maintains ball speeds that are reasonably high on misshits. Due to the strong launch of this club, we had no trouble hitting it out of the first cut. In fact, we even knocked one out of a fairway bunker on a par 5 hole, which is a shot that we probably wouldn’t have attempted with our standard 4-iron. When it comes down to it, this club is really forgiving and generates a launch that is easy, something a great number of golfers will undoubtedly like.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT HYBRID
It is one thing to be aware of the greatest hybrid golf clubs now available on the market, but it is an altogether different thing to decide which model to add to your selection of golf clubs. The question now is, how can you arrive at such a conclusion?
The quantity of information that is accessible, which includes things like swing speed, club path, ball speed, angle of attack, and distance, is fairly startling. In an ideal scenario, the answers will be provided by a club fitting that has been effectively done. With one of them, you will unquestionably be able to obtain your hands on the appropriate make and model. On the other hand, in the event that this is not feasible for whatever reason, we have a few suggestions.
- Performance
The performance of a hybrid is the most crucial thing to consider. Your goal is to acquire adaptability that will allow you to enhance your scores and get out of difficulty in a variety of circumstances that may arise while you are on the course. Off the tee, from the rough, from the fairway, around the green, and even from the midst of low-lipped fairway bunkers, hybrids are something that you should experiment with, according to our recommendation. A demo day is the perfect time to do the type of testing that you need to undertake in order to determine whether or not a hybrid is the best choice for you. You need to evaluate how well they function for you.
- Feel
During the golf swing and, most crucially, during impact, a comprehensive examination can provide information about how certain clubs feel. When the hit occurs, the sound of some models is louder than that of others. For some people, the touch may feel like a heavy thud, while for others, it will feel electric and energising right off the face. Feeling is completely subjective and individual to the person playing the game. Once again, we suggest that you visit various models both indoors and outdoors so that you can get a sense of what you like and what you don’t like about them.
- Looks
You should be pleased with the appearance of all of your golf clubs, particularly while you are addressing them, since you do not want to be distracted by a club that you do not find very appealing to look at. Spend some time looking around, examine the club in your hands, and determine whether or not you like the way it looks and feels while you are in the presence of it. Will you feel fully at ease placing it in the bag, and does it complement the rest of the things you have set up? It may appear to be a waste of time to evaluate a club based on its appearance; nevertheless, if you are pleased with the way your hybrid appears when you pull the headcover, it may boost your confidence when you are out on the course.
None of the hybrids are exactly the same. While some have a more wood-like appearance, others have a higher toe and are made to look more like iron. Some of them have a higher toe than others.
Budget
The penultimate factor you should consider is budget. Due to the large variety of hybrids that are currently available on the market, it is possible to get a high-quality club at a wide range of pricing points and to accommodate practically any budget. When it comes to saving money, there is typically value for money to be discovered if you are OK with not owning a club that is manufactured by a marquee manufacturer. If you want a premium brand model, you can get one. If you want to save money, you can acquire one.
- Testing
To avoid sounding like a broken record, we recommend that you visit a range and give some of them a try. In the majority of locations, clubs are still taped up, and you are allowed to be your own range tester. Although it won’t be as comprehensive as a custom fit, you will be able to draw some inferences from it. As an instance, you will be able to obtain a sense of the weight and appearance of the club, as well as determine whether or not the shaft is suitable for the manner that you swing it.
You will also be able to get a notion of how simple it is to hit each hybrid and fly airborne if you hit several shots, even if you have tape over your face. This will most likely be of great assistance to handicappers with greater handicaps. Golfers who are more skilled may be looking for a product that is easier to use, and as a result, they would be interested in purchasing a product that offers a great deal of hosel adjustment. At the end of the day, it is dependent on whatever aspect(s) of performance you place the utmost importance on, as well as which hybrid is able to fulfil the most number of requirements for your game.
Check out our tips on the most forgiving golf hybrids and the best hybrids for older players for other outstanding possibilities. These guides will provide you with further useful information regarding the purchase of your new rescue club.
FAQS
WHEN SHOULD I USE MY HYBRID?
In the event that you find yourself in a challenging situation on the course and want a little bit of more punch in order to get the ball out of the lengthy stuff, hybrid clubs are an ideal choice to utilise. In addition, they are excellent for use off the fairway, in the rough, and even for those challenging little shots that are required around the greens.
HOW MANY HYBRIDS SHOULD I CARRY?
The majority of golfers own one or two hybrid clubs, which may be used to substitute any club that falls between a three-iron and a five-iron.
WHAT IRON CORRESPONDS TO WHAT HYBRID?
In most cases, a 19-degree hybrid is what takes the position of a 3-iron in the bag. A 22-degree-24-degree hybrid would be equivalent to a 4-iron. In addition, a 5-iron would be equivalent to a 27-degree hybrid.