Hybrid and Utility Clubs

How to choose a hybrid

Match the loft to the iron you are replacing. A 19 degree hybrid replaces a 3 iron, 22 degrees replaces a 4 iron, 25 degrees replaces a 5 iron and 28 degrees replaces a 6 iron. Get this right and the gaps in your bag stay even. Get it wrong and you end up with two clubs that go the same distance.

Hybrid or utility iron. A hybrid has a wood-shaped head, launches higher and is far easier from the rough. A utility iron has an iron shape, flies lower and holds its line in wind, and it suits better players who want control off the tee. If you are asking the question, you want a hybrid.

How many. Most golfers benefit from one or two. If you carry a 3 and a 4 iron and hit neither well, replacing both is the single quickest way to lower your long game scores.

Which hybrid is for you

• Game improvement hybrids. TaylorMade Qi4D Rescue and Qi4D Max Rescue, Callaway Quantum Max and Max OS. Wide soles, high launch, maximum forgiveness. The right answer for most golfers.
• Utility and driving irons. TaylorMade P-DHY, Callaway Apex 26 Utility Iron. Iron shaped, lower flight, more control. For better players who want a tee club that is not a wood.
• Hybrid iron sets. Some sets replace the long irons with hybrids from the factory, so the gapping and the shafts are matched for you. Worth looking at if you are buying a full set anyway.
• Higher launching and lighter builds. XXIO and the ladies and seniors specifications across most brands. Lighter shafts and higher lofts for slower swings.
• Left handed options. Hybrids are one of the better served categories for left handers across the major brands. Use the hand filter on this page.

Our take on hybrids

If you carry a 3 iron and you do not hit it well, swap it for a hybrid and you will notice on the first hole. Long irons are the hardest clubs in golf to hit and almost nobody outside a single-figure handicap needs one. There is no prize for carrying a club you are afraid of.

Common questions

What is the difference between a hybrid and a utility iron?

A hybrid has a wood-shaped head, launches higher and is far easier to hit from the rough. A utility iron has an iron shape, flies lower and suits better players who want control off the tee.

Which iron should a hybrid replace?

Match the loft. A 19 degree hybrid replaces a 3 iron, 22 degrees a 4 iron, 25 degrees a 5 iron and 28 degrees a 6 iron.

How many hybrids should I carry?

One or two for most golfers. If you have a 3 and a 4 iron you rarely use well, replacing both is worth more than any other change you could make to your long game.

You may also like

• All golf clubs
• Golf irons
• Fairway woods
• Golf drivers
• TaylorMade clubs
• Callaway clubs
• Tour Edge clubs

Not sure which is right for your game? Every Drummond Golf store offers free MiMatch custom fitting. Our team analyses your swing and matches you to the right specs, at no cost and with no obligation to buy. Find your local store and book a fitting.