Although driving irons took a back seat for a little while in the world of golfing, they are now back, bigger and bolder than ever before. With advancements in modern club technology meaning there is now such an astonishing range of driving irons available on the market that are sleek, stylish and can have the ability to make you feel like a pro, even if you are far from it.
However, the question still remains on many golfers’ lips – “should I be using one?”
If you are one of these golfers, then you need to keep reading to find out why a driving iron could be the answer you are looking for when it comes to improving your game.
What is a Driving Iron?
This is a good place to start. If you are new to golf or even if you have never played before but are thinking of taking up this all-inclusive sport, it is important to fully understand all the equipment available to you to help improve your game.
A driving iron is a low, lofted iron that will allow you to reach long distances off the tee. The golf ball trajectory when using a driving iron is quite a bit lower to the ground than if you were using a fairway wood or driver.
A driving iron is not the same as a hybrid club, which is a combination of fairway wood and iron.
Why should I use a Driving Iron?
If you want to add an extra level of flexibility to your game, and who doesn’t, then investing in a high-quality driving iron is a good idea for you.
The benefits of a driving iron include:
- You can play better in windy conditions. Golfing in the wind can be a tough and stressful experience with a lot of distance being lost off the tee. However, a driving iron allows you to hit low and long shots that will avoid being sent higher and further away by the wind.
- You can avoid trees better. A driving iron can help you keep your ball beneath the branches of the trees on the course, allowing you to get the ball into a better position.
- You will feel more confident. Let’s not beat around the bush. Driving irons are a bit sexy, and anything that can make you feel more confident when playing golf is a good investment.
- They are versatile. Easily more versatile than a hybrid, a driving iron is great for tee shots as well as being able to hit a low hook under trees.
Are there any downsides to using a Driving Iron?
Of course, as with all sporting equipment, it is down to the individual to decide what club works best for them and which one helps, not hinders, their game.
That being said, there are not many disadvantages to driving irons. In fact, the only one that comes to mind is that some golfers find the small clubface a bit intimidating to play with.
However, that is the minority. Most actually feel that the smaller clubface actively helps them to crush the ball downward, compared to a hybrid where you have to sweep the ball more.
What should I be looking for in a Driving Iron?
Modern club technology has come a long way in recent years, namely with the emergence of Cor2 technology. If you don’t already know what this is, then you are in for a treat.
Cor2 is a low density, high speed and vibration-dampening material which is injected into the driving iron.
What is the result?
- A better, more consistent response
- Outstanding levels of accuracy
- Phenomenal feel at impact
- Low spin
- Low launch
- Faster speeds
- Tighter dispersion
How far can I expect to hit a Driving Iron?
It is worth knowing that a driving iron will reach a shorter distance than a 3-wood by around 10-15 yards. That being said, you must remember that you can achieve a lower shot with a driving iron that will hit and roll on impact with the ground.
If you are still unsure of whether or not you should invest in a driving iron, then answer this simple question.
Do you have less than 14 golf clubs in your bag?
If you have answered yes, then you should definitely. The USGA, United States Golf Association, states that you can have a maximum of 14 clubs in your bag when playing, so if you are not already using your full allocated number of clubs, what have you got to lose by getting another one?
Plus, think about how much it will improve your game and your overall look as a golfer!