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.

You may have noticed that the average hybrid iron comes equipped with a longer shaft. this allows for a more forceful swing, using the power of leverage. Combined with the center of gravity being further backwards, it adds the extra distance to your shot.

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.

The downside that has to be accounted for, though, is the difference in performance. Club sets are designed to complement each other in terms of range, but now you have one or more (hybrid iron) clubs "out of sync" with the rest of the set. Somewhere in your set will be a distance unaccounted for. Because of this "distance gap", you are now faced with a choice: Should you simply carry an extra iron to compensate, or should you buy a set of hybrids? A whole set would be great for your game, but it could prove expensive.

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.

Thanks to technological advances, hybrid irons have gained a fair advantage over regular irons. Originally these clubs were designed to assist the "average" golfer, but as time passes, more and more professional hybrid irons are released. This has resulted in growing popularity amongst the more experienced golfers, including the hardened PGA professionals, who are seen (regularly) carrying hybrids on the field. There is a definite swing in popularity towards hybrids.