There are three hybrid models in the new Quantum family from Callaway. There’s the standard Max, the Max OS and the Max Fast which is a lighter, easier to swing model aimed at golfers with slow or moderate swing speeds, making it an ideal hybrid for seniors.

The tech story behind the Quantum Fairway Woods and Hybrids is that they have been built with a clear focus on speed, easy launch and all-round playability. This has been achieved through a ground-up redesign, with the key technology being Speed Wave 2.0, which positions mass low and forward to boost ball speed while producing dependable launch characteristics. Enhanced face flex, especially on low-face strikes, helps maximise energy transfer on the most common miss.

A refined Step Sole Design reduces resistance through the turf, encouraging cleaner contact and more consistent strikes from a variety of lies. Completing the tech package is a next-generation Ai-Optimized Face, engineered to maintain ball speed and performance across the hitting area.

The first thing I noted after unboxing the Max and Max OS models was that there is a significant size difference between them. The footprint of the Max OS seems considerably bigger, both at address but also when just looking at the sole. That’s normal for a game improvement option, as the larger profile is something that offers reassurance for higher handicap players.

As a general rule the best hybrids tend me the ones with a more compact head, such as the Cobra OPTM hybrid I reviewed recently. I’d usually shy away from the fairway wood style, larger headed hybrids, but I carry a Callaway 7 wood in my bag and it’s my favorite club, so I suspect that subconsciously the Max OS was giving me similar vibes at address, which is why I was drawn to it. Plus the sound and feel at impact is very “Callaway”, which again added to the comfort level.

Other than the difference in size, there isn’t a great deal of aesthetic difference, and both the Max and Max OS are very pleasing on the eye. The black and grey head cover design hits the right note too, and when it comes to looks Callaway has done a good job. Personally I’d prefer matt on the crown rather than the glossy finish but each to their own.

For range testing at Hurlston Hall Golf Club in Lancashire, I adjusted the Max OS by one degree from its standard setting so that both hybrids were set to 19°, allowing for a more direct comparison between the two. On that subject, I found that the OptiFit 4 hosel was quite difficult to master.

Usually changing loft and lie is quite straightforward, but it took me ages to work out how this hosel works. Even the instructions on the Callaway website seemed to just confuse me even more and I ended up finding the solution on Youtube. Even now that I know how it works it still seems complicated!

The resulting numbers were not too dissimilar as you can see from the data below, but there was a significant difference in dispersion, where the Max OS model was definitely more consistent for me and certainly puts it among the most forgiving hybrids on the market this year.

I’ve been fighting a slight push in recent weeks and the dispersion of the standard Quantum Max saw a number of shots stray a little right of my intended target. The dispersion map showed that I was hitting the Max OS straighter, which I assume can be attributed to the slight draw bias negating that pesky push.

Ball speed was somewhere in the middle in comparison to other 2026 hybrids I’ve tested, while launch, spin and distance were all pretty much where I would expect them to be.

I loved the ball flight of the Max OS which just seemed to be a tad more controlled and pleasing on the eye than I was getting with the standard Max model. The numbers don’t necessarily back that up so this is very much anecdotal evidence. The sound and feel when you find the sweet spot is always pleasing with Callaway fairways and hybrids and both the Max and Max OS delivered on that front.

One thing I noticed with both models is that when I caught it a bit thin the launch and height did not suffer as much as I would normally expect. That suggests the Speed Wave 2.0 tech is doing its job. The slight draw bias in the Max OS was definitely evident, albeit nice and subtle, which I really appreciated. If you do play with a draw though this is something to be aware of as you don’t want to overdo it.

On the course the Quantum Max OS delivered in every aspect of hybrid play. It was accurate off the tee and not lacking in distance. On approach shots turf interaction was excellent, while the high flight really allowed me to be aggressive without worrying about not holding the green. Hybrids are a useful weapon for bump and run shots around the green and I found those shots were very easy to control with the Max OS.

Before testing both clubs if you’d asked me which one I expected to perform best for me I’d have said the standard Max model, as I am exactly the level of golfer it is aimed at - a mid-handicap player who strikes the ball pretty well but values a bit of forgiveness.

So the standard Max is the club that really should have suited me best, yet I am more drawn to the game improvement Max OS even though it is supposedly for golfers a bit below my skill level.

Mid-low handicap players might be put off by the “game improvement” label of the Max OS but keep an open mind, as unless you're a premium ball striker looking to be creative with your shots, I don’t think there is anything the standard Max does that the Max OS can’t match. It also provides that extra bit of forgiveness and draw bias for those that need it.

The Callaway Quantum Max OS hybrid will be retailing at $349.99/£269.

Callaway’s new Quantum hybrid lineup is made up of three distinct models, each targeting a different type of golfer. The standard Quantum Max is the all-round option, while the Quantum Max OS adds extra size and is one of the most forgiving hybrids on the market this year. Rounding out the range is the Quantum Max Fast, a lightweight, easy-to-swing hybrid designed for golfers with slower or moderate swing speeds, making it a particularly good hybrid for seniors.

Across both the Quantum fairway woods and hybrids, the design brief has been simple: create clubs that are fast, easy to launch and highly playable from a wide range of lies. To achieve this Callaway has gone back to the drawing board, with Speed Wave 2.0 at the heart of the redesign.

By pushing weight low and forward in the head, the technology is designed to increase ball speed while maintaining stable, predictable launch conditions. The face has also been engineered to flex more efficiently, especially on strikes low on the face, helping retain speed on the most common mishit. This was something that really jumped out in my testing, as thin strikes still managed to get surprisingly good height and distance.

Further performance gains come from a reworked Step Sole Design, which limits turf interaction to promote cleaner strikes and more consistent contact from the fairway or rough. The package is completed by a next-generation Ai-Optimized Face, built to preserve ball speed and overall performance across a much larger area of the face. Callaway’s use of Artificial Intelligence has been a staple of its recent releases and has proved to be a real game changer, and the brand always features prominently in any list of the best golf hybrids.

For testing, I received both the Quantum Max and Max OS, and the contrast in head size is immediately obvious. The Max OS has a noticeably larger overall profile, which is clear at address and even more apparent when you turn the club over and look at the sole.

That extra footprint is exactly what you’d expect from a game-improvement hybrid, offering a more confidence-inspiring look for higher-handicap golfers. The compact head of the standard Max will appeal to traditionalists and golfers who value workability over ultra forgiveness.

Beyond the size difference, the two models share a very similar visual identity. Both are bold and modern in appearance, with clean lines and plenty of shelf appeal. The black and grey headcover complements the clubs nicely and feels well judged. While the glossy crown finish isn’t to my personal taste, there’s no denying Callaway has put together a smart-looking package overall.

The standard lofts across the three Quantum Max hybrids differ, with the Max OS set at 18°, the standard Max at 19° and the Max Fast at 20°. To ensure a fair comparison I adjusted the Max OS up by one degree so that both clubs were set to 19°.

It’s worth noting that altering loft and lie using Callaway’s OptiFit 4 hosel wasn’t the most straightforward process. Even after studying the instructions on Callaway’s website, I struggled to get my head around it. As is often the case when in doubt, YouTube came to the rescue. I got there in the end, but compared to other adjustable hybrids I’ve tested recently, such as the excellent TaylorMade Qi4D Rescue, this felt unnecessarily complex.

I initially wondered if it was just me, but three professionals at Hurlston Hall Golf Club in Lancashire, where the testing took place, also struggled with it!

Purely based on the data there was very little to choose between the Max and the Max OS, but in terms of dispersion the Max OS was a clear winner for me. That might not be the case for everybody, but I’ve been struggling with a slight push recently and a significant number of shots with the standard Max model strayed a little right of my intended target. That’s a me problem of course and while I may be a bad workman I rarely blame my tools!

What I would say though is the extra forgiveness and draw bias of the Max OS model provided me with the assistance I needed. If you don’t need that then the standard Max will probably appeal more due to the compact head, which is something better players tend to value as it aids with shot shaping.

Performance on the course was excellent. Off the tee the Quantum Max hybrid was solid. The Max OS is designed to help with launch and a higher flight but I noticed very little difference between them and I don’t think golfers will have any issues getting the desired height with the standard Max model. On approach shots I really enjoyed the turf interaction and high, penetrating flight, while performance out of the rough was generally faultless too.

Many golfers like to use a hybrid around the green for bump and run shots. This is an area where I definitely think a compact head like that of the Max really helps as it provides that little bit more feel and control you need when playing delicate touch shots.

While for me personally I enjoyed the Max OS slightly more due to how consistently straight I was able to hit it, I would say that if you prefer a hybrid with a more compact head and good workability (while still offering a variety of adjustability options), then the Quantum Max ticks a lot of boxes and will almost certainly be one of the more popular hybrids on the market this year.

The Callaway Quantum Max hybrid will be retailing at $349.99/£269.

Any new TaylorMade launch is always one of the highlights of the year and 2026 has been no exception, as the new Qi4D family of drivers, fairways and hybrids continue to build on the excellence delivered by the Qi10 and Qi35 line ups of the previous two years.

Whereas in 2025 there were only two models of hybrid in the Qi35 range, this year’s Qi4D features three hybrid models. The Core and Max models remain from last year, but for 2026 there is also a Max Lite model, which is a speed-focused option boasting a higher MOI and rear weighting to aid with launch and forgiveness. This makes it one of the best hybrids for seniors or golfers with slower swing speeds.

In terms of the tech story, it’s not too dissimilar to last year. The Qi4D hybrids feature a multi-material build, combining 450 stainless steel with an ultra-light carbon fibre crown to optimise mass placement. This helps deliver consistent carry distances and a steep, controlled landing angle. Proven TaylorMade technologies also remain, with a cut-through Speed Pocket preserving ball speed on low-face strikes and Twist Face tightening dispersion on mis-hits for dependable performance.

I was sent the standard Qi4D Rescue and the Qi4D Max Rescues for review and couldn’t wait to put them through their paces, especially after unboxing and seeing the premium, stylish design. I’ll be honest, I loved the look of the Qi4D just from the head cover alone. Very swish.

The clubs themselves follow suit. The overall design is simplistic but stylish. While you can see that the standard Qi4D and the Max version are clearly related, they’re more like normal siblings than identical twins, as there are clear differences between them.

Both share the same refined multi-material head design that pairs a clean stainless-steel body with an ultra-light carbon fiber crown, creating a subtle, high-tech two-tone appearance. Branding and graphics are kept to a minimum on both the crown and sole, which is far more appealing than bold colors or overly busy detailing.

Looking down at address the difference is only slight between both models. The Max has a larger footprint but over the ball I don’t think that is too noticeable to the naked eye. It’s only when you view them from the sole you can really see the size difference. Additionally, you can see from the sole that there is a significant contrast in the weight distribution of each club. The standard Qi4D has the weight nearer to the face, whereas the Max is rear weighted to aid launch and forgiveness.

Unlike the standard Qi4D model, the Max has a bonded hosel and is not adjustable. This might put some golfers off, and if you do value adjustability then go with the standard Qi4D as it can be adjusted 1.5° up or down, which is very useful for gapping purposes. If you are happy with a set loft and lie though then you’ll be fine with the Max - it provides a cleaner look and there are plenty of loft options available.

While the difference between the two when sat behind the ball is minimal, the Max just seemed that tiny bit more inviting to me, possibly because subconsciously I was aware of the rear weighting which really gives you that sense you can get the ball flying high. This is significant for higher handicappers, who will benefit from the assistance that rear weighting gives you when launching the ball.

To compare the two clubs fairly I adjusted the standard Qi4D to the same 20° setting as the Max. The data was almost identical, although anecdotally I would say the Max performed slightly better, as the dispersion was tighter and it was a little more forgiving on mishits, as I would expect from a Max model. With the core Qi4D I was seeing a tendency for some shots to drift right, but the Max gave me a consistently straighter flight, even though unlike last year’s Max model it is not draw biased.

From a purely numbers point of view, both the Qi4D and the Qi4D Max performed as well as or better than any other hybrid I’ve tested this year. The distance numbers exceeded anything else I’ve tested recently, while I also experienced a slightly higher flight and faster ball speed from both Qi4D models in comparison to, say, the excellent Mizuno JPX One hybrid I reviewed recently.

While the Max performed a tad better on the range, on the course I was slightly more impressed with the standard Qi4D. I really enjoyed firing approach shots at the green with both clubs, but off the tee I found that the Max flew a little too high and spinny than I would ideally like. That isn’t a problem for me personally as I’m not a big hitter so would only ever use a hybrid off the tee on a long par three, or on holes when driver or fairway wood is simply not an option, but if you often use a hybrid off the tee then this is something to think about.

On the flip side, I found that I was able to get consistently better contact out of the rough with the Max than I did with the standard Qi4D. This is where this club really comes into its own, 'rescuing' golfers from bad lies with aplomb. I even tried a few chip and run shots around the green and it was surprisingly effective.

The better player will most likely be drawn to the standard Qi4D, particularly as the adjustability allows whatever tinkering is needed to fit in with specific gapping requirements, but the Max offers a little more forgiveness and consistency for those who need it (which is most golfers!), and both pack a punch in terms of distance.

The only downside to the Qi4D Max is the lack of adjustability, but that can be overcome by going for a fitting to determine exactly what loft and lie you require.

The Qi4D Max hybrids are available in lofts of 3 (20°), 4 (23°), 5 (26°), 6 (30°) & 7 (34°) and can be preordered now, before they go to retail on January 29th at a cost of $299.99 in the US and £269 in the UK.

I carried the same hybrid in my bag for a decade before switching it out for a 7 wood a couple of years ago, but the adjustability options available on some of the best golf hybrids now, plus the extra distance on offer from newer models compared to my trusty old gamer, has given me pause for thought as I probably could carry both a hybrid and 7 wood now without them cramping each other's style.

One of the best adjustable hybrids I’ve tested this year is the Cobra Optm which has a whopping 33 different loft and lie combinations. The TaylorMade Qi4D Rescue by contrast is a little more restricted than that, but does allow the user to go up or down by 1.5° from the standard setting, so I was keen to see what it could do and whether it would be a contender to go into my bag this year.

The Qi4D range of drivers, fairway woods and hybrids continue the impressive work we’ve seen in recent years with the Qi10 and Qi35 offerings. The Qi35 core hybrid was one of the best products we tested in 2025 so there were some big shoes to fill, but I’m happy to report that the Qi4D Rescue didn’t disappoint.

Unlike last year, TaylorMade is offering three models of hybrid rather than just two. In addition to the standard Qi4D there is the Max version, as well as the Max Lite which is aimed at golfers with slower swing speeds who need a little help with launch and distance.

I tested both the standard Qi4D (19°) and the Qi4D Max (20°) Rescue clubs, but this review focuses on the standard model.

The Qi4D hybrids are built around a multi-material construction that blends 450 stainless steel with an ultra-lightweight carbon fibre crown. This frees up discretionary mass, allowing the centre of gravity to be positioned for consistent carry yardages and a steep, controlled landing angle.

As stated above, adjustability is a key strength of the Qi4D design. An 8g Trajectory Adjustment System weight lets golfers fine-tune flight, spin, and swing weight, while a 3° loft sleeve allows further optimisation of loft, lie, and face angle. Together, these features make it easier to dial in preferred ball flight and gapping, while the balanced CG promotes workability and precision.

The Qi4D hybrid also incorporates proven technologies from previous TaylorMade line ups. A cut-through Speed Pocket helps reduce spin and maintain ball speed on low-face strikes, while Twist Face corrective face curvature tightens dispersion on mis-hits, ensuring reliable performance even when contact isn’t perfect.

The design is simplistic and stylish, typified by the plain yet sophisticated look of the head cover. The head features a refined multi-material design, combining a sleek stainless-steel body with an ultra-light carbon fibre crown for a subtle, high-tech two-tone look. Branding and graphics are kept to a minimum on both the crown and the sole, which for me is always preferable to bold colors or busy detailing.

One change everyone will spot is the new alignment graphic which takes the form of a vertical dash instead of the T-bug logo from the Qi35. I'm on the fence over whether I prefer it - it's certainly more subtle while still doing a good job of showing where the center of the face is. Regardless, it's a very inviting hybrid to look down on.

Sound and feel is exactly what you would expect from a TaylorMade product. Both of these things are subjective of course, but personally when it comes to feel and sound I can rarely fault TaylorMade.

The performance on the range was impressive. The Qi4D in its standard setting (19°) delivered higher ball speeds than any hybrid I have tested so far this year, while the carry distance gave me a good five yards more than I would usually get from a comparable lofted hybrid.

Approach play is my primary focus with hybrid clubs as I’m not a long hitter, which often means I’ll find myself reaching for a hybrid or fairway wood for approach shots on short par fives or long par fours. The Qi4D delivered a high flight, while the spin numbers were such that I would have no concerns about being able to hold greens with this club, even in firm summer conditions.

With an average carry distance of 180 yards in the standard setting, I could definitely find room in my bag for the Qi4D as with a little tinkering on the adjustable loft sleeve I could even squeeze out a few more extra yards, which would put it perfectly between my 5 wood and 7 wood in terms of gapping.

One slight concern I had with the Qi4D was that a number of shots were drifting a little to the right, which isn’t my normal shot shape with hybrids or higher lofted fairway woods. Initially I assumed it was just something that must have crept into my swing on the day, but when I switched to the Qi4D Max the right miss virtually disappeared.

So in terms of dispersion the Max was a better option, but then that’s to be expected given it is designed for more forgiveness and the target market is more the mid-high handicap range. I would say that the standard Qi4D will appeal to the better ball strikers, but I wouldn’t pigeon hole it as a club for lower handicap players, as personally I would have no problem putting it in my bag and I am not a single figure player.

In terms of on course performance, I loved the Qi4D off the tee as I found the flight to be more penetrating than that of the Max, which was a bit high and spinny for me. Both clubs were excellent from the fairway, but out of the rough I would give a slight edge to the Max model, where I think the rear weighting really comes in handy.

All in all I love this hybrid and while the Max is slightly more forgiving, I think the adjustability on offer from the core Qi4D model will make it more appealing for the majority of golfers.

Qi4D hybrids are available in lofts of 2 (17°), 3 (19°), 4 (22°) & 5 (25°) and can be preordered now before they go to retail on January 29th at a cost of $299.99 in the US and £269 in the UK.

Whenever I think of the Ben Hogan brand, the first thing that comes to mind are the stunning blade irons it specialises in. If I had the game to play them, they would be my iron of choice. Alas, I do not, so instead you’ll find some of the best irons for mid-handicap players in my bag. There is more to the Ben Hogan brand than irons though, so when I was asked to put the PTx Max hybrid to the test I was excited to see what it could do.

PTx Max Hybrids deliberately go against the current trend toward ever-smaller hybrid heads and this look will certainly divide opinion. There is a practical reason for it, as the larger head allows weight to be positioned further back and deeper in the club, delivering a higher moment of inertia and a lower, deeper center of gravity for enhanced stability and forgiveness.

The PTx Max is engineered with an advanced internal structure that redistributes discretionary mass around the perimeter, maximising MOI and helping maintain consistency across the face. A variable face thickness design further boosts forgiveness, preserving ball speed on off-center strikes.

So that’s the technology side of things out of the way, now onto the more tangible stuff such as looks, feel and performance.

I have mixed feelings on the aesthetics. In the bag it looks great, boosted by a lovely headcover, while the sole design ticks a lot of boxes for me with its classic Hogan styling. Over the ball, however, it’s not quite to my taste. Firstly, I’m not keen on a glossy crown and, to my eye, the head looks a little clunky. That’s subjective, of course, and I can see the asymmetrical shape appealing to higher-handicap golfers who like the confidence a larger head provides.

I tested the PTx Max alongside a couple of other hybrids, so it was interesting to compare and contrast. The first thing I noticed was how heavy it felt in the hands, something I put down largely to the stock KBS Tour steel shaft. You can really feel the head throughout the swing, and I’d be curious to see how this club performs with a graphite option.

Before testing out on the golf course I always like to hit a lot of balls at my local driving range first to get a proper feel for the club and to get some base numbers from the Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitors that each bay is fitted with.

Initial range testing was a little tricky, as the combination of the larger head and steel shaft felt unfamiliar and threw my timing off. Once I adjusted, and corrected the slightly open face position I was unknowingly setting at address (it looked square to my eye but every shot was veering to the right), the ball flight straightened out and strike quality improved markedly.

Two things stood out from testing. Firstly, the flight was slightly lower than expected for a hybrid of this loft (18°), something backed up by launch monitor data showing a launch angle around 1.5° lower and a peak height roughly four yards lower than a comparable hybrid. Secondly, dispersion on mishits was more erratic than I’d hoped, with forgiveness feeling average rather than outstanding.

On well-struck shots, however, the PTx Max performed nicely and I enjoyed it more on the course than I did on the range, yet it was falling short of where the Mizuno JPX One hybrid I tested recently was finishing.

The feel is pleasant enough, though the sound was a little loud and metallic for my preference, as I tend to favour a more muted thump. The lower flight and spin led to slightly reduced carry but more run, resulting in overall distances that were comparable to other hybrids. That trait will suit some golfers more than others, particularly mid-to-high handicappers or those using a hybrid from the tee.

Speaking of which, I had more impressive results hitting this club off the tee than I did from the fairway. My local course has one hole that requires a lay up with a hybrid off the tee and I often struggle with that shot, but I hit a dozen balls off that tee with the PTx Max and every one found the fairway. Approach shots weren't really producing the flight I ideally would have wanted, but I liked the performance out of the semi rough, where the heavier head really seemed to cut through the grass nicely.

The more accomplished player who likes to work the ball and requires a high flight and greater stopping power should probably look elsewhere though.

The PTx Max hybrids are available in 18°, 22° and 26° lofts. As with all Ben Hogan Golf clubs, they can be paired with a range of premium aftermarket shafts, and I’d strongly recommend exploring those options as I suspect a well-fitted graphite shaft would significantly enhance this club’s performance.

Hybrids are an important weapon in the arsenal of the average golfer. While some players have ditched them in favour of the modern trend of higher-lofted fairway woods, there is still very much a role for the best hybrid clubs as they bridge the gap nicely between fairway wood and long iron.

Cobra has long been one of the standout brands in the hybrid category, with a real emphasis placed on adaptability in recent years. The versatility offered by Cobra hybrids is probably unmatched at the moment, and last year’s DS-Adapt hybrid model was among the best golf hybrids we tested in 2025.

For 2026, the new Optm range of metalwoods and hybrids continues that adjustability trend. Once again, it features the FutureFit33 hosel introduced last year, allowing golfers to choose from 33 different settings to dial in their preferred ball flight and gapping number. While that sounds bit complicated, it’s actually very easy to use. Scanning the QR code etched into the club brings up a clear settings chart that helps identify the most suitable configuration.

The Optm hybrid features refined shaping with a slightly larger profile at address and a shallower face height to promote easier launch and a more optimised trajectory. Adaptive Weighting improves center-of-gravity (CG) placement, while H.O.T. Face Technology boosts ball speed, making the Optm both faster and easier to launch than previous models, according to Cobra.

Aesthetically, this club really works for me. I love the headcover, the sole design, the satin finish on the crown as well as the red-and-black shaft that sets everything off. Most importantly, I love how it sits at address. It ticks every box visually for me.

Looks matter in any golf club because confidence at address plays such a big role in performance. Whether it’s a driver or a putter, if you don’t like how a club looks over the ball, it’s difficult to commit fully to the shot. While this is always subjective, I’ve personally always preferred a more compact hybrid head rather than something closer to a fairway wood profile, and the Optm sits perfectly in that sweet spot for me.

The Optm’s shape is similar to a long-time gamer that has been in and out of my bag for over a decade so I felt at home with this club right out of the gate. The feel is solid and responsive, offering plenty of feedback through impact. It’s not the softest-feeling hybrid on the market, but it strikes a nice balance. The sound follows a similar pattern. It’s not harsh or loud, but not overly muted either. Sound and feel will always come down to personal preference but I liked what the Optm provided on both counts.

As for the adjustability, I’m not a big tinkerer. I generally stick with standard settings so the full range of 33 combinations is somewhat wasted on me. That said, the ability to adjust loft and lie independently will be a big plus for golfers who like to fine-tune gapping or alter ball flight depending on conditions pre round.

Most of my testing was conducted using the standard loft and lie setting, though I did hit shots at both the highest and lowest lofts to compare height, spin and distance. You can see the results in the table below. Interestingly I was hitting it slightly further on the higher loft setting than the standard. The significant difference in performance from the same club based on adjustments though really gives it an edge over much of the competition, as you can quite literally tailor this club to meet whatever gapping distance you need from a hybrid.

As you can see from the above data, I’m not a particularly long hitter and would expect to carry an 18° hybrid around 175-yards. In the standard setting, the Optm delivered a slight increase in ball speed compared to other hybrids I’ve tested recently, but that didn’t translate into extra distance due to a higher spin rate.

That isn’t a negative for me. In fact, I was delighted with the performance. Carry distance was right where I’d expect it to be, and the higher spin produced a strong, high flight with a soft landing. Distance isn’t my priority with a hybrid as I would argue that forgiveness, versatility, gapping, control and stopping power matter far more. One slight drawback was that the performance out of the rough wasn't quite on point, but conditions were difficult when I tested so that didn't help.

At $299/£249 I would say the Cobra Optm hybrid offers good value for money as it is a very playable and adaptable hybrid. While higher-handicap golfers may prefer a larger footprint for maximum forgiveness, those who value consistency, a controlled high flight and plenty of adjustability should find a lot to like in the Cobra Optm hybrid.

The Optm hybrids are offered in 3H (19°), 4H (21°), 5H (24°) and 6H (28°), paired with KBS PG Hybrid graphite shafts in 85g (stiff), 75g (regular) and 65g (A-flex). The Optm Women’s Hybrid range is available in 4H (21°), 5H (24°), 6H (28°) and 7H (31°), fitted with KBS PG Hybrid 55g graphite shafts in ladies flex.

Mizuno has a well earned reputation for crafting beautiful, compact irons, and in recent years it has seriously raised its game with some of the best drivers, fairway woods and hybrids on the market.

Hybrids have become a staple in the bags of many golfers due to their versatility and user-friendliness. Even tour pros who are capable of striping long irons in a way that average club golfers can only dream of, will sometimes have one of the best hybrids in their bag.

Mizuno’s hybrid game is strong and the new JPX One hybrids take the same engineering principles used across the JPX One metalwood line and apply them to a more compact, purpose-built long-iron replacement. They’re adjustable too, with four settings; standard, low, upright and high.

In terms of the tech advancements in the JPX line up, the standout structural change is the Waffle Crown, which stiffens the crown internally and frees up weight that can be pushed lower and deeper in the head. That weight redistribution helps with launch and adds a touch more stability, particularly on shots struck high or low on the face.

The 1.8mm MAS1C steel face is another key component. Unlike variable-thickness designs, this uniform-thickness face keeps ball speed consistently high across a broad hitting area. This is especially noticeable on hybrid-specific misses, such as the thin strike or the slight heel contact, where the head still produces enough speed to keep distance gaps intact. This was clearly evident in my testing as I missed the center frequently during my first range session with the JPX One, yet the numbers didn’t really suffer.

Mizuno also reworked the CORTECH Chamber to encourages extra flex in the toe and heel sections of the face, which adds forgiveness without making the head feel lively or unstable. Paired with the Speed Bevel sole, the hybrids glide through rough and tight lies more cleanly, maintaining speed even when the strike isn’t ideal.

With lofts from 19° to 28°, the JPX One Hybrids create a smooth, dependable progression at the top end of the bag, while still retaining that trademark solid, muted Mizuno feel.

Visually they hit the spot too. The design is quite simple but stylish I think. The profile at address will appeal to the more skilled ball striker but may not necessarily suit the eye of the higher handicap golfer. My only gripe with the aesthetics is the glossy crown as personally I'm not a big fan of the shiny head.

The data from my testing sessions at the range was really solid, particularly given that - as referenced above - I didn’t find the sweet spot too often on that first run out. It took a little while for me to get comfortable with it but once I did the results stood out.

The feel on good strikes was powerful and the flight was high but penetrating. The dispersion and distance on those shots was tight and overall the JPX One is very consistent when it comes to good strikes. That is true of most modern clubs though, so for many golfers it’s about forgiveness. How does a club perform on the not so good strikes? Again, the consistency was there.

Initially I was often hitting it a little ‘toey’ but that didn’t really show up too much on the data as the distance numbers and ball speed were pretty consistent regardless of strike location.

I did notice a drop off in distance on thin strikes, as you’d expect, but overall it was less than I would have predicted. The spin numbers were right in the window I would want, while the average distance was impressive for me. I’m not a long hitter by any means but I noticed a gain of around 8 yards from my gamer hybrid, which isn’t surprising as I use an older model that has been in and out of my bag for ten years.

The JPX One was also providing more distance than other new hybrids I've been testing recently too though, despite being one degree higher lofted. Extra distance in a hybrid isn't too important for most golfers and can actually pose a problem with gapping, but if you are looking for a bit more 'oomph' then the JPX One certainly provided that for me.

On the course I used it from the tee and fairway, as well as from a variety of lies in the rough. I was getting solid numbers off the tee and was able to hit some nice high approach shots that stopped quickly on longer par fours and shorter par fives. Out of light rough I saw some really nice results, but I prefer a higher lofted hybrid from the slightly thicker stuff and I struggled with the 19 degree option.

On that note, I also tested the 22 and 25 degree models of the JPX One and was similarly impressed with the feel and performance. All in all, the JPX One hybrids are a good option for anybody looking to switch from long irons or to simply upgrade their hybrids in 2026, particularly if extra distance is something you value.

For what feels like forever, I have been in search of a club in my bag that fills the dreaded gap between my 4-iron and 3-wood. For years, I have experimented with different clubs to try to fill the void, and while some have managed to do so for short periods, I’ve constantly been on the search for a staple in that area of my bag.

The previous Callaway Apex UW model proved to be extremely popular among tour players and amateur golfers, so when I heard Callaway was launching the new Apex UW 25, I knew I had to get my hands on one and put it through a thorough test. Should it be considered one of the best hybrids or fairway woods on the market, and will it make it into my bag? I took it onto the golf course to find out.

From an aesthetic standpoint, Callaway has absolutely nailed it with the Apex UW 25. Down behind the ball, it looks like a crossover between a large hybrid and a squashed fairway wood, providing a confidence-inspiring look that I immediately loved.

The silver satin face contrasts superbly well against the Traxial carbon gloss black crown and really highlights the loft on the face, giving you the impression you will be able to hit high, towering shots, even when the ball is on tighter cut surfaces.

What I loved most about the Apex UW was its incredible versatility. In the past, I have dabbled with utility irons, particularly when playing links golf or tighter courses where I need an alternative club to the driver to help put the ball in play. I have also experimented with a 5-wood, 7-wood, and even a 9-wood, but while these clubs are ideal if you’re seeking a high ball flight and hitting into the greens on longer holes, I struggled to flight the ball down and keep it under the wind.

It didn’t take long for me to notice how the Apex UW 25 offers the ability to hit those soft-landing approach shots, largely thanks to some clever weight saving in the crown, which lowered the CG and promoted easy launch. However, I was seriously impressed by its ability to hit penetrating bullets from the tee box thanks to its step sole design, which sees the club enter and exit the turf like butter. The Apex UW 25 is more than just a “gap filler” - it’s the definition of a true shot-making club.

From hitting this club out of the rough and off tight fairways, I truly put this club through its paces, and it excelled every time. Using my Foresight Sports GC3 Launch Monitor, I captured some data that you can see in the image below, which was the average of 10 standard swings, using a Titliest Pro V1x Golf ball.

My current 4-iron carries at around 218 yards with my 3-wood flying 268 yards through the air. As you can see, this 21° Callaway Apex UW 25 produced an average carry of 242 yards, acting as the perfect middle ground, when putting what I call my ‘stock’ golf swing on it. The beauty was the ability to create an extra 5 yards of carry when I needed to, and also take about 10 yards off when hitting a ‘spinny’ fade.

While this club did offer the ability to be creative with curvature and trajectory control, one thing I feel that could be improved is the ability to change loft through an adjustable hosel. The Apex UW 25 is available in lofts of 17°, 19°, 21° and 23°, but an adjustable hosel may just allow golfers to precisely dial in a certain distance.

If, like me, you’ve been searching for a solution to bridge the gap towards the top end of your bag, then the Callaway Apex UW 25 is a club I couldn’t recommend enough. It’s provided me with an option that can stay in my bag in different conditions and allows me to access the full library of shots I wish to hit when on the golf course.

The Callaway Apex UW 25 is available online and in golf stores worldwide and comes to retail at $349/£339.

The Titleist GT1 is one of three models in the GT hybrid lineup and has been designed to offer the highest launch thanks to a super lightweight design. Making up the other two models you have the GT3 which sits at the opposite end of the spectrum, providing a more penetrating flight and high levels of workability alongside the GT2 which is considered one of the best hybrids on the market, offering a mixture of forgiveness and power in a mid-sized head.

The first thing that stood out to me when taking the GT1 hybrid out to the course was the size of the head. The footprint is significantly larger than both of its siblings, offering what can only be described as a crossover between a hybrid and a high-lofted fairway wood. While many better players may opt for the smaller, more compact appearance of the GT3 hybrid, I’m someone who loves the look of a larger head when it comes to hybrids.

Titleist has done an excellent job in providing continuity with the looks of the GT range, all the way from the drivers, through to fairway woods and then onto the three hybrids. The GT1 appears marginally different on the sole compared to the other two models due to front and back weight ports as opposed to the ones situated towards the heel and toe on the GT2 and GT3. This design has been implemented to offer a 5 percent increase in MOI compared to the TSR1 hybrid, providing even higher stability and forgiveness. If you enjoy the appearance of the GT1 but want a slightly lower ball flight with reduced spin, you can flip the 11g heavier weight in the rear with the 5g weight in the front to bring the CG forward or even use the adjustable hosel to change the loft.

While gathering my data for the GT1 hybrid using 2025 Pro V1x golf balls and a Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor, I saw it launch significantly higher than the other two models, hitting 12.3° on average. The ball speed remained relatively similar at 146.2mph on average, just under 1mph slower than the GT2. However, from scanning my data it was the 45.2° descent angle that caught my attention and was clearly the main reason I found this club to be so efficient when striking the ball from the deck and playing into the green.

The lower and further back CG increases the launch with this club and therefore I saw an extremely high ball flight with plenty of spin, perfect for those golfers who may have a slightly slower swing speed or just want maximum height and launch when hitting their hybrids from the deck. For me, the GT1 should be considered one of the best hybrids for higher handicappers as well as one of the most forgiving hybrids on the market due to how well it then performed from the rough.

After testing the GT1 hybrid both indoors on one of the best launch monitors as well as out on the golf course, I can see the appeal of this club and why it could be a savior for those wanting a lightweight head that offers plenty of leeway on mishit shots. At $329/£299, the GT hybrids are premium priced but if you’re in the market for a new hybrid that’s versatile and user-friendly, I believe the GT1 is worth considering.

After how much I enjoyed the performance of the PXG Black Ops 0311 fairway wood, I was eager to get my hands on the hybrid. In order to fully compute whether this club could be deemed one of the best hybrids on the market I tested it both indoors in a controlled environment using 2025 Titleist Pro V1x golf balls and a GCQuad launch monitor as well as out on the golf course to test its versatility.

From a looks standpoint, the Black Ops hybrid ticks many boxes if you’re in the market for a modern aesthetic. It boasts a high-strength carbon crown which has allowed for weight to be redistributed low and towards the perimeter of the clubhead for higher MOI and stability. The rest of the head is made up of gloss black and silver tones giving this club a clean and premium look both in hand and down behind the ball at address.

One of the things I noticed immediately when resting this club down at address was how flush the face sits to the ground. A new square face design is made from a strong steel and has been made 10.5 percent thinner than previous models to maximize face flexion and therefore increase ball speeds on shots struck across the whole of the face. The hitting area does appear a little longer from heel to toe than other models on the market but I feel as though this just inspires more confidence.

I found the Black Ops to be one of the most forgiving hybrids during my testing session and It proved to be particularly effective when advancing the ball down the hole from the rough. The Black Ops 0311 hybrid wasn’t necessarily one of the quickest hybrids in regards to ball speed but was by no means a slouch. It produced 143.1mph on average which saw it sit around the middle of the pack but this speed combined with generous spin and an average launch of 13.1° is what made it prove so valuable when the ball was sat down in a poor lie.

The sound of the PXG Black Ops 0311 hybrid has been significantly muted compared to previous models, especially the 0211 range. While still not as quiet as the likes of the TaylorMade Qi35, the Black Ops hybrid provides a pitch similar to that of the impressive Cobra DS-ADAPT hybrid - lively but not distracting.

Overall I thought the PXG Black Ops hybrid was very impressive and a solid all-round performer. Because of its easy high-launching nature and lightweight design, It could be considered one of the best hybrids for higher handicappers but thanks to three interchangeable weights on the sole, the CG could be brought forward a little for those with faster swing speeds looking to keep the flight down. Originally at retail for $329 they are quite an investment but I feel as though the price is, for the most part most, justified by the performance.

There have been some seriously impressive hybrid releases so far this year all vying for the title of best golf hybrid club of 2025 but could will the Wilson Dynapwr hybrid state its case? I put it through some thorough testing indoors on a CGQuad launch monitor as well as out on the golf course using Titleist Pro V1x golf balls to see where this hybrid excelled.

From a look's standpoint, the Wilson Dynapwr hybrid offers a classic head shape with a modern twist. The head appears somewhat compact although Wilson has extended the lower toe area as it identified this is a common miss for amateur golfers. I don't think I would have ordinarily noticed this but the way the score lines on the face are highlighted in a ‘V’ pattern, the large toe certainly becomes more noticeable down at address.

The first thing I noticed when it came to my testing was the fact that the head of the Wilson Dynapwr is bonded, meaning there is no adjustability for loft and lie. With almost every other model on the market being adjustable, I really feel as though Wilson is missing a trick here and ultimately this could deter golfers if they like to tinker with their clubs or regularly play different courses that require their hybrid to execute different shots.

Through impact, the Wilson Dynapwr hybrid feels lively and that was backed up by the generous ball speed it produced. I saw on average just under 145mph of ball speed on this 22° model and that was combined with a very high launch (13°) making it perfect for those who regularly hit their hybrids into greens and want the ball to land softly. Where the Dynapwr wasn’t as optimal as some of the new hybrid releases, like the Callaway Elyte and the TaylorMade Qi35, was with the spin it produced. I saw a little more spin than I would have liked out of a hybrid of that loft (4306rpm) and therefore there was a little lack in carry distance.

While not the longest on test, the Dynapwr hybrid did prove to be very forgiving and performed well from the rough. The high launching nature of this club meant it was easy to advance down the hole even out of the thickest lies in the first cut and would be a perfect hybrid for higher handicappers. The custom 455 face material helped maintain ball speeds on off-center hits and I found this to be particularly evident on shots struck low and towards the toe where that surface area had been increased.

At £220 the Wilson Dynapwr hybrid offers good value for money and is one of the most forgiving hybrids that I tested this year, offering good consistency and a tight down-range dispersion. If you’re in the market for a new hybrid, particularly to use to attack greens from a distance, then the Dynapwr is one you should be considering in 2025.

The Titleist GT drivers and fairway woods are comfortably among the best models I have tested over the past year and so when the new GT hybrids arrived on my doorstep, I couldn’t have been more eager to get out on the golf course and test them.

There are three new hybrids available. The GT1 is a lightweight and ultra-forgiving head aimed at the slower swinger; the compact GT3 hybrid aimed at the better player and the GT2. This is the club of the three that will suit the majority of golfers, combining generous ball speed and distance with forgiveness in a mid-sized footprint.

This club looks brilliant down behind the ball and the slightly larger head size will help inspire confidence to golfers who need it. It’s got the look of a hybrid/fairway wood crossover, similar to that of the Callaway Apex UW, and the full face white grooves make it look like you can see more of the face for added confidence. The additional real estate of this club, along with a redesign of the head, has seen a 10 percent MOI increase, making it more stable and forgiving while still providing plenty of power - qualities that many of the most forgiving hybrids possess.

One of the big improvements made on the GT2 hybrid is the refined sole plate. This really has the leading edge of the hybrid sitting flush to the ground and was something I would pay tribute to when it came to improved turf interaction. The TSR2 hybrid could be a little clunky through impact at times but I had no such issues during my testing with the GT2 hybrid. While I feel as though this hybrid performed well from various lies around the course, including testing from the rough and even fairway bunkers, it was the GT2’s performance from the fairway that was the most impressive and cemented its place among the best golf hybrids released this year.

Most golfers will look to put a hybrid in their bag to replace a long iron and with that you would want to see increased forgiveness, height and perhaps extra distance - at least more consistent carry distances. The GT2 hybrid offers all of that in abundance. This club is perfect for those wanting to still attack greens from a distance thanks to its high-launching face and ability to produce towering ball flights. Holding greens was no issue and when attacking the pin from range thanks to the generous spin produced (3897rpm on average). The combination of ample spin and a respectable 147mph ball speed saw the GT2 produce carry numbers (233 yards) right up there with some of the longest hybrids I have tested.

As you can see from the data chart above, the GT2 hybrid launched a little high with more spin and a touch more ball speed than the GT3 model. The GT3 model would probably be of preference to those wanting more iron-like performance, offering a more penetrating ball flight and the ability to work the ball around a lot. While you don't quite get the same workability from the GT2 hybrid, the miss-hits are far less volatile than those with the GT3. If you're looking for the best all-round performance between the two, then the GT2 hybrid would be my recommendation.

Where this hybrid really stands out from the crowd is with its adjustability, which is crucial in delivering a specific ball flight (tee shots) or carry number (approach shots) for the user. You have loft options of + 1°, +2° and -1° from the base loft as well as upright and flat lie angle settings to alter the left or right bias of the club. You also have the heel-toe weighting system on the sole, which is unique to the market in 2025 (besides featuring on other GT models) where golfers can position an 11-gram and 5-gram weight in the heel or toe to further encourage a shape or shot or align more weight behind where you tend to strike the ball on face, producing more consistently high ball speeds and straighter trajectories.

This extra dose of insurance is a real game changer for golfers that call upon their hybrid under pressure or who simply don't want to see a certain shape. With the 11g weight in the toe, the ball flight was fairly neutral, but it's good to know I could encourage it to fly further one way or the other using the various settings available. Get custom fitted and you have the option of 3g/13g and 7g/9g combinations to fine tune the flight to the nth degree too!

Titleist never fails to deliver on the brief of producing classic-looking golf clubs with modern feel and performance and the GT2 hybrid is no exception. This club delivered across the board and the adjustability on offer means fine-tuning this club to your exact needs is very simple. Priced at £299 the GT hybrids come in at a premium price but if you’re struggling with your longer irons or want to update your current hybrid, you'd be hard pushed to find one as comprehensive as the GT2.

The GT3 is one of three new hybrids released from Titleist in 2025 and where the GT1 offers a lightweight construction with maximum forgiveness and the GT2 offers a nice blend of forgiveness and power, the GT3 is said to boast iron-like performance with a touch more forgiveness that prior iterations. This suggests that the GT3 hybrid is perfect for the more confident ball striker who is after the workability and feel on offer from an iron with added forgiveness and a slightly higher ball flight. This is something I was keen to put to the test.

Down behind the ball, the GT3 hybrid is the smallest of the three in the range, although it benefits from a 15 percent increase in MOI compared to its predecessor, the TSR3 hybrid. The compact head shape is certainly not the most confidence-inspiring look, so if you’re after a significant change in the profile address compared to your long iron, you’ll want to look at one of the most forgiving hybrids like the GT2.

The GT3 hybrid has also seen a dual-weighting system introduced on the sole compared to the CG weight track we have seen in previous iterations. The 11g and 5g weights can be flipped between the heel and the toe to help adjust the CG placement and provide more ball speed and assistance on strikes away from the middle. The SureFit hosel system carries over from the previous generation of Titleist hybrids to help golfers eliminate or promote a certain ball flight through changing loft and lie.

I actually struggled quite a lot with the TSR3 hybrid last year due to the lack of forgiveness and I was never a fan of the asymmetrical look behind the ball. When I put the GT3 hybrid down at address I was pleased to see there had been some refinement of the sole and that it hugs the ground so much better now. This alone promoted more confidence and through impact - the GT3 felt far smoother than last year's model.

I tested this hybrid in a controlled indoor environment using a GCQuad launch monitor and 2025 Pro V1x golf balls and the numbers were solid. I actually got a little more out of the GT2 hybrid and the GT3 was arguably a little more volatile in terms of misses left and right, but we're talking fractions here and it was still perfectly playable on all but the worst of strikes.

This all said and done, it was the on-course performance for me that stood out with the GT3 hybrid and what will see it become one of the best golf hybrid clubs released this year. It proved to be extremely reliable when used from different lies and situations on the course. The GT3 produced a solid average carry number of 231 yards but it was the ease with which I could work the ball that impressed me the most. Moving the ball left to right and vice-versa was no issue at all and despite naturally producing a flatter ball flight than the GT2 hybrid, when needed, the GT3 was still easy to launch up in the air and produce a towering ball flight to stop the ball on the green.

While the GT3 hybrid didn’t quite possess launch or the forgiveness of the GT2 hybrid, it was far easier to work and create shots and the adjustability provides golfers the option of extra height if required. Elite ball strikers looking for a touch more launch and stability than a long iron would love the performance on offer from the GT3 hybrid and should seriously consider adding one to their bag if they are in the market for an upgrade.

The full Titleist GT hybrid range will be available from the 21st February and will come to retail at £299.

I was a huge fan of the Ping G430 hybrid last year due to its very forgiving nature and inviting head shape, so I was eager to test the new Ping G440 hybrid to see if the performance could be improved and continue to be seen as one of the best golf hybrids released in 2025.

Aesthetically, there hasn’t been a whole lot of change in the G440 hybrid compared to its predecessor. The footprint remains fairly large which is something I like and most golfers using a hybrid will take confidence in. The sole follows the same blue color scheme as the G440 driver and fairway wood models, although I can’t help but feel the black and silver tones with neon yellow accents on the previous range just looked a little more stylish and modern.

The G440 hybrid benefits from a Carbonfly Wrap across the crown which has been introduced to redistribute weight, creating a lower CG and ultimately more speed and forgiveness. A further way in which Ping has refined this year's fairway wood and hybrid models is by introducing a new Free Hosel design, which has allowed for even further weight savings and allows for optimum spin and launch conditions.

A new rounded sole design sees the G440 hybrid sit really flush to the turf which is a look I really like and makes it feel as though you can launch the ball very easily. The same score lines on the face as the previous model return and make for very easy alignment and centering the ball at address and thanks to the maraging steel face, mishits were hardly punished and my data gathered from a GCQuad launch monitor backs that up.

I conducted my testing both indoors and outdoors using the new 2025 Titleist Pro V1x golf balls and I was really impressed with the data and the versatility of the G440 hybrid once I got out on the course. I saw really impressive and consistent numbers during my indoor testing, with one shot managing to reach just shy of 239 yards carry and 257 yards total. As someone who naturally spins the ball a lot, I was pleased to see my average spin stay at 3179 rpm and the combination of that and a 12.4° average launch angle meant I saw high, towering ball flights from the G440.

I was a little skeptical on whether I would be able to flight the ball down once I got onto the course in blustery conditions but a simple adjustment of ball position and I was clipping shots away with a piercing trajectory with plenty of run. The G440 continued to impress me with how well it performed from both the tee and the fairway and even out of the rough. From the tee the ball never climbed too high and stalled, yet when struck from the fairway, I saw the height and carry needed to stop the ball on the greens. I was surprised with how well this club performed from the rough due to the slightly larger head size but it popped the ball up nicely with slightly less spin than when playing from the short stuff.

The most impressive thing about the Ping G440 hybrid is its versatility and ability to perform well in any situation, offering the characteristics of some of the most forgiving hybrids. The larger footprint will inspire confidence to those who need it, yet I feel better players will still appreciate how it sits at address and can massively benefit from the performance. Coming to retail at $325 it’s certainly on the more expensive side of hybrids released this year but there aren’t many as impressive as this one.

After testing and being bowled over by the Srixon ZXi fairway wood, it was time to turn my attention to the ZXi hybrid and put it through some thorough testing both indoors on a launch monitor as well as taking it out on the golf course to see if it can truly be considered one of the best hybrids released this year.

Before diving into the performance, it’s worth mentioning the looks. The head size has been slightly increased compared to the previous ZX Mk II model and this offers a more confidence-inspiring look at the address. It’s by no means on the scale of some of the most forgiving hybrids on the market but large enough to help those who seek confidence and compact enough that better players won’t be put off. One thing worth mentioning is that matte black head and face (which I love) also has black grooves. This doesn’t show off the loft very well nor help with alignment, so when you are hitting from the fairway or a tight lie, you can’t see much of the face and it can look a little intimidating.

The ZXi hybrid features much of the same technology as is found in the whole ZXi lineup and really helps add versatility to this club. The I-flex face offers variable thickness across its entirety to help maintain ball speeds on mishits and deliver efficient energy transfer at impact. The data I gathered while testing on a GCQuad launch monitor and using the 2025 Titleist Pro V1x golf balls showed that the ZXi produced really solid ball speed numbers (149 mph on average) and just under 238 yards of carry from a 17° head. The Rebound Frame that has been featured in previous Srixon products is used again in the ZXi range and utilizes two flex zones on the face to increase power and shot distance, regardless of strike location.

While I loved how well the ZXi hybrid performed from the fairway and particularly off a tee once I had stepped onto the golf course, I did notice it struggled a little when coming out of the rough. Admittedly, a 17° head may be a little too strong lofted to attempt moving my ball out of the wet rough I was placing it in but I noticed a little lack in spin when testing indoors that may also contribute to this. If you’re someone who struggles with launch and spin, it may be worth playing around with the adjustable hosel that Srixon has added to help with launch and ultimately carry distance.

Overall the ZXi hybrid felt great off the face and is a powerful hybrid option that I think has a really clean and premium look about it. It wasn’t as impressive relatively speaking as the ZXi fairway wood versus the competition, yet still produced solid numbers and plently of playability on the golf course.

The ZXi hybrid will be available to purchase worldwide from the 15th of February and will come to retail at a punchy £319.

The new TaylorMade Qi35 lineup is here and that includes two new hybrid models for this year - the Qi35 core hybrid or Rescue model and the slightly larger and more forgiving Qi35 Max hybrid. Both hybrid models offer the same premium look sported by the Qi35 driver and fairway wood, making them some of the best golf hybrid clubs on the market when it comes to their aesthetics.

While the core Qi35 hybrid model has a 3° adjustable hosel, the Max hybrid hosel is bonded, meaning there is no way to change loft, lie or face angle - something to bear in mind if you’re looking to upgrade your current hybrid. The Qi35 Max hybrid has been designed with maximum forgiveness in mind and also features a mild draw-bias, so given you can’t adjust the clubhead, this model may not suit a golfer who naturally plays a draw or doesn't want to see the ball fall to the left (as a right handed golfer). However, If you slice the ball more often than not, you’re in luck.

During my testing I found this draw-bias really was present and on times my draw turned into a strong hook. One shot in particular fell 41 yards left of my intended target although I do have a tendency to release the hands a little too much through impact, which may be partly to blame here. Interestingly I saw much more consistent front-to-back dispersion with the Max hybrid but the regular hybrid was far less volatile when it came to side-to-side dispersion so the jury is still out on whether I can class this one of the most forgiving hybrids released this year.

In order to complete a thorough test, I took this hybrid both out on the golf course as well as inside on a Foresight Sports GCQuad launch monitor and using the 2025 Pro V1x to put it through real-life scenarios as well as to gather some standardized data. On the golf course, I was particularly impressed with the height I was managing to launch the ball at and that’s largely down to the CG positioning and rear weight placement on the clubhead. The sharp descent angle as shown in the data table meant holding greens even in the middle of summer would be no issue for the Qi35 hybrid, so if you’re a shorter hitting looking for one of the most forgiving hybrids to attack greens from range, the Qi35 Max is a stand out contender.

Because of the slightly larger head size compared to the core Qi35 hybrid model, I thought it might struggle to cut through rough but that was not the case. In fact, it performed better than the core model from both awkward lies where the ball was in the rough as well as from tight lies in the fairway. The continuation of the Speed Pocket in TaylorMade Metalwoods and hybrids is largely to thank here.

If you want to cure your slice with a hybrid or you’re a slightly shorter hitter and find yourself often hitting hybrids into long par threes or fours then the TaylorMade Qi35 Max hybrid could be a great fit for you. The lack of adjustability is what I think may put some people off but as long as you go for a fitting and understand what loft and lie you require, I can’t see any reason why this hybrid shouldn’t be considered for a spot in your bag.

The TaylorMade Qi35 Max hybrid will be available to purchase at retail on the 30th January and will hold an RRP of $299/£269.

The club that bridges my irons and my fairway woods has been in constant rotation over the past couple of years and one of my New Year resolutions was to find something that I like and to try and stick with long term to gain some consistency when it comes to that area of the bag. Enter the TaylorMade Qi35 hybrid as a serious contender.

After completing my testing of the new TaylorMade Qi35 fairway woods and falling in love with the Qi35 Tour fairway wood in particular, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the Qi35 hybrid and see if I was going to experience similar levels of total performance. From a looks standpoint, the hybrid immediately ticked all of the boxes. It oozes the same premium aura as the rest of the Qi35 lineup thanks to the chromium carbon fiber finish on the crown and sleek gloss silver and grey sole.

The medium-sized footprint of the Qi35 hybrid is one I love and looks great when down behind the ball. The rounded back and decals on the rear of the crown helped me center the ball easily and the satin banner running along the top of the crown provides more vivid clubface alignment. TaylorMade has opted for only two hybrids in its 2025 lineup, ditching what would have been the equivalent to the Qi10 Tour hybrid we saw last year.

As my colleague Joe has written about recently, hybrids look like they’re gradually dying out on tour with more players opting for a driving iron or high-lofted fairway wood as a replacement. The Qi35 hybrid is aimed at the majority of amateur golfers, while the Qi35 Max hybrid is for those seeking a slightly higher launch and larger footprint. Both will be available to purchase as of the 30th January at $299/£269.

The CG in the TaylorMade Qi35 hybrid has been centered to offer the most optimum energy transfer through the ball at impact and alongside a Speed Pocket and TwistFace, the Qi35 hybrid is well and truly packed with technology. To see how useful this was I put the Qi35 hybrid to the test both indoors on a GCQuad launch monitor using the 2025 Titleist Pro V1x golf balls as well as out on the golf course.

After looking at the numbers I began to see large differences between my longest and shortest shots as well as a pretty high variance in spin rates. While a lot of this has to be taken with a pinch of salt down to user error, I found the Qi35 Max hybrid offered much more consistency.

Through impact the Qi35 hybrid felt as good as expected, producing a harsh thud-like sound through impact and a compressed feeling off the face. I actually really enjoyed the feeling of hitting this club off a tee when I got on the course as it felt extremely powerful and produced a fairly penetrating ball flight compared to the more floaty trajectory I saw when striking it from the turf. That said, the adjustable hosel means you can alter the loft to produce the flight you want to see, adding to its versatility.

While I did see a drop off in distance on my mishits, for the most part, the head felt extremely stable and the ball rarely deviated far from my target line. I did hit some shots from the rough and I would say it coped fairly well, not as well as say the Callaway Elyte hybrid but solid enough that the ball popped out cleanly and got on or near the green from all of the worst lies.

The TaylorMade Qi35 hybrid is one of the best golf hybrids around when it comes to its aesthetics both in hand and behind the ball and produces well-rounded performance. It remained fairly solid in terms of distance, forgiveness and versatility without really excelling in any individual area. If you’re a fairly competent ball striker, this hybrid is likely to be a very strong option, however, if you’re prone to miss-striking your hybrid and you’re looking for as much distance as possible, the Qi35 Max model arguably worth considering first.

The long-iron/hybrid/high-lofted fairway wood slot in my bag is constantly up for debate and so I was particularly intrigued to see how the new Callaway Elyte hybrid would perform when putting it through its paces, not just on a GCQuad Launch monitor but also out on the golf course, using the 2025 Titleist Pro V1x golf balls.

As a golfer who plays regularly on different golf courses and in different conditions, the top end of my bag is ever-changing to suit the conditions of my environment at any given time. However, I can’t help but feel I would be more consistent if I had a ‘go-to’ club that I could call my Mr Reliable, no matter what conditions I’m faced with.

While I’ve been using a Titleist U505 driving iron for some time now, I’ve always been a fan of a lofted fairway wood, such as the 9-wood I enjoyed testing last year. Despite being a +3 handicapper and confident ball striker, smaller hybrid heads just don’t do it for me and so when I saw the slightly larger profile of the Elyte hybrid, my eyes lit up.

The Elyte hybrid is what Callaway is calling its most adjustable hybrid ever. It features a new 4-way Optifit hosel compared to the one seen in the past with Paradym and Ai Smoke hybrids and it features two weight ports on the sole. In these ports, you’ll find a 13g tungsten weight and a 3g aluminum weight, both of which fit into either slot so you can tailor the club to be more draw-biased or kept to promote a neutral ball flight. I often find hybrids too easy to turn over and so the neutral setting is what I stuck with during my testing.

So what was the performance like and does this club warrant a place in my bag? Without beating around the bush, the numbers were good... really good. 149mph was my average ball speed and that combined with 3810rpm of spin saw my carry number constantly fall around the 233 yard mark. It’s always been a lack of consistency in strike with hybrids that have seen me rarely keep one in the bag for much longer than a couple of weeks but the Callaway Elyte feels different. The new Ai10x face has seen 10 times the amount of sweet spots positioned on the face compared to Ai Smoke hybrids and that felt noticeable, particularly on shots that were hit low and towards the heel. The ball speed and carry barely dropped on these hits, which is crucial for when you’re not quite in your rhythm on the golf course and proved to be comparable to some of the most forgiving hybrids I have tested.

The Elyte hybrid felt very lively off the face and that feeling was backed up by the fast ball speed numbers it produced. It offers up a slightly firmer feel than the Elyte fairway wood, which will be largely down to the Thermoforged crown on the fairway wood. Considering the Elyte X hybrid is the higher launching of the two new models, I was impressed with the ease of launch from the regular Elyte hybrid. The towering ball flight descended as if it had been hit by a pitching wedge and so if you’re a slightly shorter hitter who regularly uses hybrids playing into greens, this club could be a fantastic option.

Despite the X forming a larger footprint, the standard Elyte hybrid any of the most forgiving hybrids from last year, particularly when playing from the rough. The mid-sized profile tore through the first cut exceptionally well and saw the ball pop out with ease.

There was very little to grumble about with the new Callaway Elyte hybrid. If I were being uber critical I would say the aesthetics could look a little more premium or spruced up, particularly when looking down at the club behind the ball. The satin black is by no means offensive but I feel could be made to look a little more premium given the $299/£299 price tag.

If you’re looking to update your current hybrid or perhaps are diving into the hybrid market for the first time, you’ll do well to find one more well-rounded than the Callaway Elyte. It has all the performance features of one of the best hybrids and thanks to the additional adjustablility, you can easily tailor the clubs specs to suit your golf swing or the course you’re teeing it up on.

Striking long irons well, particularly from the ground is a challenge almost all amateur golfers face, so adding one of the best golf hybrids to your bag is one of the easiest ways to improve your performance when attacking greens from distance.

The Callaway Elyte X hybrid has been designed to compete with the most forgiving hybrids on the market but to see if it can live up to this expectation, I put it through its paces both indoors at the Foresight Sports HQ using a GCQuad Launch Monitor before taking it onto the course and seeing how it coped hitting different shots from various lies.

The first thing you notice when setting the Elyte X hybrid down behind the ball is the sheer size of the head. This larger head has been designed to inspire confidence at address and almost looks as though it’s a hybrid/fairway wood crossover style club, similar to the Apex UW. As is the case with most forgiving hybrid models, the Elyte X hybrid has been designed to be semi-draw-bias and interestingly has a slightly taller face than the standard Elyte hybrid.

Straight away during my testing, I could see how this taller face would affect the spin rate and how it was going to differ to the other hybrid model in the Elyte lineup. The Elyte X hybrid is designed to promote a high launch with low spin, making it perfect for those seeking a little extra distance in this area of the bag, or as I found out, a perfect replacement for hitting the driver off the tee on narrow holes. Despite being designed as the more forgiving model of the two hybrids in the range, I felt the Elyte X didn’t perform quite as well from the fairway and especially from the rough. The taller face felt a little harder to slide through the thick wet rough I tested it in and although the ball did come out on every occasion, it was chasing towards the green rather than flying through the air.

While on average the ball speed was identical between the two Elyte hybrid models, It was the X that nudged it when it came to carry and total distance. This is down to the fact it spun on average at 3467rpm - around 400rpm less than the standard version with only slightly less launch. The effect of the new Ai10x face was evident as there was hardly any drop-off in ball speed, regardless of strike location. My fastest ball speed during my testing session was 150mph and my lowest was just 147mph, despite a very low and towards the heel strike.

Despite already being slightly more draw-bias than the regular Elyte hybrid, there is still the option of the interchangeable weights on the sole where the heavier weight can be positioned towards the heel to help promote even more of a drawing ball flight. When switching these over in testing I found I almost couldn’t miss on the right side of the golf course, so if you suffer from a slice, this hybrid may be of interest to you.

The two models felt very similar through impact, both producing a fairly firm but lively sensation and a slightly higher-pitched acoustic compared to other hybrid models on the market. While this may be to some people's taste, I prefer a more muted, thud-like sound that is synonymous with TaylorMade golf clubs like the Qi10 hybrid released last year.

If you’re looking for that ‘go-to’ club from the tee or a longer hybrid option that offers generous forgiveness, the Elyte X hybrid may just be what you’ve been looking for. The high launch, low spin nature results in good distance return although if you regularly find yourself using a hybrid from the rough, you may find more success using the regular Elyte hybrid.

The Callaway Elyte X hybrid will be available to purchase online and in recognized retailers on January 31st and will retail at $299/£299.

While the hybrid may be a club that is slowly dying out in the professional game, I still believe they hold great value for club golfers seeking versatile, forgiving options at the top end of the bag. The Cobra DS-ADAPT hybrid looks exceptional and rounds out an aesthetically-pleasing 2025 lineup from the brand, but I wanted to see how performed so I put it to the test out on the golf course in a variety of scenarios.

Before jumping into performance, it’s worth noting that this hybrid looks as good as any of the best golf hybrids currently on the market, both in your bag and when sat down behind the ball. It’s definitely a more compact looking head than I was expecting, despite the footprint being ever so slightly larger than its predecessor - something that the more confident ball striker will like, but if you’re looking for something a little more confidence inspiring I would urge you to look at one of the most forgiving hybrids instead.

The beautiful gloss and satin black tone colorway gives this club a modern and very premium look, albeit very similar to that of the Darkspeed and King Tec hybrid. The DS-ADAPT hybrid features the same adaptive weighting found in the rest of the DS-ADAPT range which sees the weight brought forward and low in the face to help with launch and spin control. While I wouldn’t say I saw this hybrid launch overly high, it did produce a strong flight and felt very fast off the face.

When purchasing a hybrid club, you want it to be versatile and perform well in different lies and situations. The Cobra DS-ADAPT did a fairly good job at that. I found it to be exceptional from the tee and the fairway, so if you’re looking for an alternative option from the tee on a tighter hole, this club is a great option. I would say it didn’t perform quite as well from the rough despite its fairly compact head. It just didn’t feel quite as easy to launch and get the carry I would hope for when playing into a green from the first cut. While hybrids can be hit and miss in this category, a higher-lofted fairway wood such as a 9-wood to be a great alternative.

The speed I was feeling off the face was probably down to the H.O.T. face technology that has been present in the past couple of metalwood designs Cobra has released. This tech allows for better ball speed retention across the whole of the face so you lose minimal distance if you happen to miss strike the ball. Through impact the ball felt fairly solid, which provided good amounts of feedback on strike but there are definitely softer feeling hybrids on the market such as the Ping G430 and TaylorMade Qi10 if you want a quieter feeling off the face.

The main technology Cobra has introduced throughout the DS-ADAPT range is the FutureFit33 hosel which provides 33 different settings the golfer can change into to help dial in or correct a certain ball flight. By scanning the QR code that is etched onto the club, you are presented with the settings chart which helps you identify the setting that will suit you. While this is very modern and clever, I can’t help but feel it slightly detracts from the aesthetics of the club.

At $299/£249 I think the Cobra DS-ADAPT hybrid offers great value for money. It proved to offer ample distance, while being very forgiving and useful from the tee or approaching greens from the fairway. The FutureFit33 hosel allows you to configure this club in anyway you please, meaning you really can make this club pretty much anything you want it to be - a high soft landing club, a powerful alternative from the tee or something in between. If you prefer a more compact looking hybrid that feels fast off the face, then the Cobra DS-ADAPT is certainly worth considering.

While Benross may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of golf equipment, the brand is well known for producing clubs that offer competitive value for money and so I wanted to take the Delta XT hybrid on the golf course to see if this trend would continue.

This Benross Delta XT hybrid, like many of the best golf hybrids, looks superb both in hand and down behind the ball at address. The head shape is that of a more modern hybrid - a larger footprint and fairly deep from the face to the back edge. This is a shape that I particularly like and find it fills me with confidence compared to some smaller hybrid models.

Despite me enjoying what the Delta XT hybrid offered visually, there were a couple of other characteristics that would make me hesitant to put it in play. Firstly, the sound was extremely loud and as someone who prefers a more muted sound through impact, I struggled to ignore the loud ‘ting’ sound as I struck the ball. The feel of a golf club coincides with the sound and so the fairly harsh and crashing feel at impact was also offputting. For some, it may come across as powerful but I felt as though I couldn’t really gauge how I struck the shot due to the sensory overload.

The ball flight produced by the Benross Delta XT hybrid was very playable - a high, right to left ball flight that had plenty of stopping power when landing into the fairly firm greens at North Hants Golf Club, Hampshire. The bonded hosel means you can’t adjust loft or face angle but I found it fairly easy to change the ball flight by adjusting the ball position. There are three loft options available as standard, the 20° model I tested, a 24° head and also a 28° model for golfers who are looking to replace their longer irons with hybrids.

The forgiveness of the Delta XT hybrid is helped by the rear weight port, which stretches the CG further back and promotes a nice high launch. I feel as though a lot of golfers would benefit more from one of the most forgiving hybrids and this offers this among the cost-effective, user friendly options.

For a hybrid that retails at £129, there is a lot of bang for your buck with the Benross Delta XT hybrid, not to mention the Fujikura stock shaft and Lamkin crossline grip that come with the club as standard. It doesn't have the firepower of hybrids from the tour played brands, but it isn't as far behind as your might expect and for those seeking a new, affordable hybrid - it's a compelling option, as long as you enjoy a louder sound at impact.

While Mizuno has always had a knack of creating some beautiful compact irons, it has certainly upped its game of producing some of the best drivers, fairway woods and hybrids in recent years. While the ST-Z 230 hybrid was a thing of beauty, it appears Mizuno has refined that model in order to keep the same stunning aesthetics but improve performance with the new ST-Max 230 hybrid. Coming to retail at $250 (£279) Mizuno is bringing a product to the market that competes with the best golf hybrid clubs from a price point of view... but what about the performance?

Still compact and with a classic shape at address, Mizuno has set about to produce a hybrid that offers the best performance in a number of key areas. It is a larger head than the previous model, but is certainly not one of the largest on the market and will maintain its appeal to the more confident ball striker. The MAS1C steel face has been expanded by a larger Cortech Chamber on the sole than previous models to improve ball speed consistency, especially on mishits. But it is the change to the leading edge that I felt really enhanced my enjoyment and performance with the ST-Max 230 hybrid.

A Speed Bevel has been applied to the leading edge, making it far less aggressive than on the likes of the ST-Z 230 hybrid, and made striking the ball cleanly from tight lies on the fairway far easier. Striking long irons and hybrids purely from the fairway is a challenge to even the best players and so having additional help to be able to attack pins from range will be sure to inspire confidence to all levels of golfer and made the ST-Max 230 one of the easiest and most forgiving hybrids to hit alongside the likes of the Ping G430 and Callaway Paradym Ai-Smoke. While I can’t categorically say this technology helped me from the first cut of rough, I did hit one of the cleanest fairway bunker shots I have ever hit with the ST-Max 230 thanks to that leading edge not digging into the sand, picking the ball off the top nicely.

The deeply positioned CG (Center of Gravity), made possible from the weight saving on the carbon crown, meant the ST-Max 230 hybrid produced an extremely high ball flight, perfect for hitting into long par fours or having a crack at a par-five green in two. This high spinning ball flight did see me lose a little yardage compared to some the market leaders in this category especially into the wind, but only by three to four yards on average. The 19° model I tested still saw carry distances reach 236 yards, which is more than healthy, while offering excellent forgiveness. It should be said that the stock UST Mamiya Linq shaft was probably a little soft for my particular swing speed, which would have exaggerated the height of the trajectory.

All in all the Mizuno ST-Max 230 is certainly a hybrid golfers looking to upgrade the top end of their bag should check out and consider. If you struggle with launch and spin, there weren't many better models I tested this year that will help you than the ST-Max 230. The adjustable hosel did mean you could knock some loft and spin off, so for those golfers who swing it slightly faster or want a touch more distance, this option undoubtedly enhances the overall versatility on offer from this club.

If you would like to buy Mizuno equipment, check out our handpicked Mizuno discount codes.

Over the last couple of years Cobra has produced some of the best golf hybrids I have tested, including the King Tec model which I actually selected as the best overall in 2023, so naturally I was really excited to test the new Darkspeed hybrid and see if there are any more performance gains to be had.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

Straight out of the box, the Darkspeed hybrid has a look synonymous with Cobra hybrids - a slightly longer blade length with a compact footprint and slightly more toe-heavy look to it from the top. The long blade length isn’t actually something I love, but is definitely something I learnt to get used to after seeing the performance of the Aerojet hybrid and King Tec models from last year.

The same stealth-like finish has been applied to the Darkspeed hybrid as seen on the rest of the Darkspeed family and provides a modern and premium aesthetic. The combination of black and grey tones alongside a matte dark grey crown make this one of the best looking hybrids at address.

Some of the same technology found in the fairway wood range has been installed in the Darkspeed hybrid and serves a really good purpose. The PWR-bridge technology and H.O.T face technology once again provide outstanding ball speed numbers and straight away made this hybrid one of the longest hybrids I have tested this year so far. Upon testing indoors on a Trackman 4 launch monitor and using Titleist Pro V1 golf balls, I saw carry distances of 243 yards on average and ball speeds pushing just north of the 150mph number. For a 19° head, these numbers are pretty unbelievable considering my club speed was around the 103mph mark. 

Not only does the Cobra Darkspeed hybrid perform well, it sounds and feels great as well, producing a muted crack through the ball at impact. The feel is reminiscent of when striking some of the best golf blade irons - a compressed and soft, yet powerful sensation through the ball. When out on the course I turned to this hybrid to use a lot of tighter holes where there was emphasis on accuracy and it didn't disappoint. The 12g weight situated low and in the middle of the sole helped launch the ball producing a high, towering ball flight. The thing I was pleased about most was how this remained the same when striking a ball from the rough. I still saw a high ball flight with plenty of carry, making this a perfect club for attacking long par fours and fives, hoping to hold the green.

The Cobra Darkspeed hybrid and not only will it suit better ball strikers, but I would already class it in the category of best hybrids for high handicappers, thanks to its high levels of forgiveness, playability and versatility.

The Cobra Darkspeed hybrid will be available to purchase in February 2024 and will come to retail at $279 - a price I feel is worth every dollar.

Finding the right rescue or hybrid for your golf bag is something that is severely underrated. Whether it’s hitting into long par 4s or par 5s in two or trying to hold the green on a long par 3, having one of the best golf hybrid clubs in your bag will make firing at pins from range a lot easier. The TaylorMade Qi10 has been designed to do just that and with a slightly larger head than its predecessor, the Stealth 2 hybrid, the Qi10 promises even more accuracy and easier launch.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

While the footprint itself remains similar to that of the Stealth 2, a new larger carbon crown has been implemented on the whole Qi10 range, freeing up weight, which is then redistributed and split between the front and rear of the head, lowering the CG (center of gravity) and creating a powerful and extremely forgiving hybrid club that will rival some of the most forgiving hybrids on the market. Much like the Qi10 fairway woods and drivers, the Qi10 hybrid is part of a family of three that also includes the Qi10 Max and Qi10 Tour. The former is even more forgiving than the Qi10 hybrid and the latter is a more compact, lower-spinning hybrid pitched exclusively at the better player.

The Qi10 hybrid has been designed with the majority of golfers in mind and we’ll likely see this in the bag of both amateur and professional golfers over the course of the 2024 season. Some of the same technology that was so successful in previous years TaylorMade models has been carried over, such as the Speed Pocket - a slot behind the face of the club to aid ball speed and shots struck lower on the face. The mid-face sweet spot, allows for effortless launch off the fairway, yet this hybrid performed strongly from the tee, producing a high yet strong ball flight.

Where this hybrid excelled was with its feel and acoustics. The Qi10 hybrid sounds and feels so powerful and springy through impact while letting out an almighty crack through the ball, which I loved. The V-Steel sole enabled the club to perform well out of the rough and even fairway bunkers, allowing it to glide through any trouble and provided superb turf interaction and launch. Despite a bonded head (non-adjustable) I liked that this hybrid doesn’t sit with an overly closed face at address or have too much offset. As someone that struggles with a miss to the left, a closed face on a hybrid is a non-starter for me. The ball did turn over a little during testing, but no more than 10 yards - more than playable - and this will help counteract a mild slice.

As a whole, this hybrid rivals the looks and performance of some of the best hybrid clubs released this year and would be a worthy addition to any golfer's bag should they be looking to improve their approach play from distance or are looking for an alternative to hitting driver from the tee on tight holes.

The TaylorMade Qi10 hybrid will come equipped with the popular Ventus Blue TR shaft, a Lamkin Crossline 360 grip and will be available to purchase from February 2nd, coming to retail at $299/£269. 

If you’re like me and love the flight characteristics of a long iron and like to work the trajectory of the ball around but are seeking a touch more forgiveness, then you’re going to want to read on. The TaylorMade Qi10 Tour hybrid is a compact, better players hybrid that has a deep face and has been designed for those seeking a combination of power, control and workability.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

A reason I have sometimes shied away from using hybrids in the past is because of the offset on display, promoting a draw-biased shot shape, which, for someone that tends to miss left is not ideal. TaylorMade has absolutely nailed the set-up and aesthetics with the Qi10 Tour hybrid - from a looks standpoint it is one of the best hybrids around. To get a better look at the performance I tested this hybrid both indoors on a Trackman 4 launch monitor at My Golf Matters, Berkshire, as well as on the course in real-life scenarios.

There are more forgiving hybrid options in the Qi10 line-up with the Qi10 Max hybrid being the most suitable hybrid for higher handicappers. For those who want a blend of performance and forgiveness it would certainly be worth checking out the Qi10 hybrid. But while there is more forgiveness thanks to the size and heel-toe internal weighting system than say a standard 3 iron, the Qi10 Tour hybrid isn’t built maximum help. 

The tour-inspired head is a toe heavy shaped hybrid that sits square to target, but also features an adjustable 3° loft sleeve, ideal for helping dial in a preferred ball flight. If you’re not the most confident of ball-strikers then this may not be the club for you as the head does look rather small when at address.

Much like the other hybrids in the Qi10 range, the Qi10 Tour hybrid has an addictive feel to it when struck cleanly. You’re greeted with a powerful sensation through impact and thanks to the addition of the same Twist Face technology found in the Stealth 2 Plus hybrid, mishits stay in play more often than not. I did notice because of the smaller head and MOI, I could turn the ball over sometimes a little too much, so for those who already see a large amount of movement on their ball, it may be worth looking into one of the most forgiving hybrids instead.

The Speed Pocket behind the face does help with shots struck a little thin, although the ball doesn’t launch half as high as the standard Qi10 hybrid model and so for those seeking more launch, that or the Qi10 Max hybrid may be the way to go to ensure you’re getting optimal results for your swing.

I can see the TaylorMade Qi10 Tour hybrid becoming extremely popular on tour, especially on longer courses as well as with lower-handicap golfers in the amateur game.

The Qi10 Tour hybrid, alongside the other models in the range, will be available to purchase from February 2nd and will retail at $299/£279.

If you are someone who struggles launching the ball and making correct contact with your longer irons, then the TaylorMade Qi10 Max hybrid may just be the club for you. Designed with ease of use in mind, this large headed hybrid has been created to be one of the most forgiving hybrids on the market while still possessing a premium look and feel.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

One of the main features of the Qi10 Max hybrid is the low CG combined with perimeter weighting, which promotes a high launch to maximize carry distance, particularly when struck from the deck. 

Through design of a shallower face, the engineers at TaylorMade have made a club that I think will inspire confidence behind the ball at address and will banish the nerves that creep in when playing into a green from distance. When conducting my testing out on the golf course, I noticed this straight away, particularly from the rough and the V-Steel sole helped cut through the wet grass - producing a ball flight reminiscent of one had the ball been teed up! Even when hitting indoors on a Trackman 4 launch monitor, the Qi10 Max hybrid produced a max height of 140ft, a number that I thought was incorrect at first but was then backed up with another reading of 135ft.

The premium color pallet of silver and blue tones look great on the Qi10 Max hybrid and are a welcome change over the likes of the Stealth 2 HD hybrid. Despite a bonded head, the face doesn’t sit too shut at address - something that many better players don’t like. While I do think the Qi10 max hybrid will be considered one of the best hybrids for high handicappers, I do think it will also be perfect for the better player who doesn’t quite have the speed in their swing and is looking for help launching the ball, in turn, making this also one of the best hybrids for seniors. Faster swingers of the club should turn their head to the other hybrids in the Qi10 family, the Qi10 and the Qi10 Tour, for lower spinning and launching options.

There was nothing to grumble about when it came to sound or strike with the TaylorMade Qi10 Max hybrid as it produced a compressed, powerful feel off the face and a real thud-like sound that will please any golfer. The continued use of Twist Face makes this hybrid even more forgiving and the Speed Pocket behind the face will help promote launch and ball speed on shots struck slightly low on the face - something I found to be particularly useful on the wetter fairways where picking the ball off the top of the grass is key.

All in all the Qi10 Max hybrid is a hybrid well worth considering if you are looking for more consistency as you progress through your bag to the top end or want to maximise carry distance with a long-iron replacement. TaylorMade does offer the Qi10 Max hybrid in lofts all the way up to 35°, which means those who like the look and performance of a hybrid over an iron can continue down through the bag with these clubs. This will no doubt become one of the best golf hybrids we will see in 2024 when it comes to playability.

The TaylorMade Qi10 Max hybrid features a Fujikura Speeder NX TCS shaft as standard and will be available for retail from the 2nd February for $299/£269.

While hybrids are often introduced to golfers' bags as long iron replacements alongside driving irons, some hybrids are still more forgiving than others. The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke falls into this category and when 2024 is all said and done, I believe this will go down as one of the most forgiving hybrids released throughout the year.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

The Ai Smoke HL hybrid is essentially the more user-friendly version of the Ai Smoke hybrid and offers effortlessly high launch - hence the name HL. While the regular model is even more forgiving than the brand's products from last year, the HL model takes things up another notch thanks to the newly constructed Ai Smart Face, which sees multiple sweet spots scattered around behind the face to ensure miss-hit shots fly relatively similar to those struck out the center. This Ai Smart Face is implemented in all of the Ai Smoke family and was very noticeable when I put the Ai Smoke HL hybrid to the test both on a Trackman 4 launch monitor at My Golf Matters, Berkshire, as well as out on the golf course.

Much like the regular Ai Smoke hybrid, the HL version features a steel sole with enhanced sole camber that helps the club to continue accelerating through the turf at impact. Where I faulted the regular Ai Smoke hybrid was from the rough as I felt it sometimes didn’t quite launch at the height I would want it too, with spin also on the low side. The HL had no such problems, producing a high, towering ball flight that landed on greens from distance extremely softly. 

However, there had to be a compromise somewhere and that came from trying to flight the Ai Smoke HL hybrid down in the wind. The high launch nature of this club meant getting distance out of this club into the wind became a challenge and I often lost control of the ball when trying to manipulate my swing to lower the flight. If you want to lower the trajectory or alter the shot shape bias through lie angle, the adjustable hosel will certainly help.

It’s worth noting that I play off a +3 handicap index and have a fairly fast swing speed, so this club is not designed for me. Instead, this is the perfect hybrid for those with slower swing speeds seeking easy launch as well as those who like to see the ball fly from right to left as a right handed golfer. During my testing I saw only one ball in 10 shots land right of my target, highlighting the fact this club would be ideal for any golfer fighting a slice.

The larger footprint really inspires confidence when on the ground and the classic ‘V’ alignment aid on the matte crown made it easy to set up square to my intended target. The ball felt fairly firm coming off the face of the club, which I can’t say I enjoyed too much as I prefer a softer feel, but the Ai Smoke HL hybrid certainly didn’t feel as though it was lacking power. The ball flew high, but it didn't climb excessively unless hitting into a strong wind - it was more of a rainbow flight which all golfers will love to see.

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke HL hybrid will no doubt become one of the best hybrids for seniors and hybrids for high handicappers over the course of the year due to how easy it is to use. More advanced golfers will prefer the slightly more neutral look of the regular Ai Smoke hybrid and will find they can work the ball a little better with this than the HL model.

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke HL hybrid will be available to purchase from the 26th January 2024 and will retail at $279/£299. The Ai Smoke HL hybrid will be powered by the highly respected Project X Cypher 2.0 shaft and will be available in 50g,60g and 70g weight options and flexes. This hybrid will be available from 18°-33° of loft and will come fitted with a Lamkin Crossline 360 grip as standard.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

As someone who fluctuates between lofted fairway woods, hybrids and driving irons over the course of the season, I’m always thrilled when a new model that could potentially fit straight into my bag gets released. When last year's Paradym hybrid was launched, I was instantly impressed with the performance on offer, but the larger, more forgiving head was something that I couldn’t quite get on board with. That said, I was eager to see how the new Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke hybrid would compare not just from a looks standpoint but whether it could match the performance shown by its predecessor?

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

Well let's start with the aesthetics. Callaway has moved away from the gloss black crown used on last year's models and has returned to the matte black crown that we saw on the Rogue ST hybrids. The head profile itself has been designed a little larger to inspire confidence and provide the user friendliness to compete with the most forgiving hybrids. These hybrids don’t feature the crushed carbon as seen on the likes of the Ai Smoke driver and fairway, but instead possess a steel finish to the sole, similar to that of the Ai Smoke Triple Diamond fairway wood.

The sole camber has been designed to become more pronounced leading to better turf interaction -something I noticed when testing the Ai Smoke hybrid on the course and hitting from fairways into par 5s. The club sat flush to the turf and even glided through the first cut of rough spectacularly when called upon.

The Speed Cartridge we saw in the Paradym hybrid remains in the Paradym Ai Smoke hybrid and certainly plays its role in producing fast ball speeds with lower spin rates. I was averaging a carry distance of 228 yards and spin rates dropped as low as 2300rpm at times - a little too low for my liking. While I loved how this hybrid performed off the fairway and from the tee with its penetrating ball flight, I did notice a slight lack of launch and spin when coming from the rough, although this is probably accentuated by the current wet and wintery conditions! It is also adjustable for loft, so you can add more height to your trajectory if you want to quite easily.

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke really separated itself from the previous years model when it came to forgiveness though. I struck countless shots when testing both out the heel and the toe and saw remarkably consistent ball flights and spin patterns when doing so. Shots hit out the heel that I would normally see climb into the wind, stayed relatively straight and with the same piercing ball flight I came accustomed to when hitting this club out of the center. 

This is testament to the new Ai Smart Face implemented into the whole Ai Smoke family. Thousands of shots have been collected and fed into the Callaway ‘super computer’ which has generated an Ai designed face with numerous sweet spots, so miss-hits perform extremely similarly to that of a good strike. This reduces not only dispersion front-to-back, but also laterally.

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke hybrid was as close to faultless as I've experienced to be honest. As always with all of the best golf clubs, it’s a question of personal preference in regards to how the club looks and feels. While I preferred the look of the matte finish on the crown and I think this makes the club look as good as the best golf hybrids on the market, others may prefer the gloss effect found on other models. 

The Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Hybrid will be available to purchase from January 26th and will retail at $279/£299.

 Callaway Apex UW Review

Now onto its second iteration, the Callaway Apex UW sits almost in a category of its own. Not quite a hybrid, but not quite a fairway wood either. Is this a club with an identity crisis, or is it filling an important void in the bag? With that in mind, why not take a look at our best golf hybrids and best fairway woods guide to see other options in this area of the bag.

The Callaway Apex UW was initially conceived taking specific tour player feedback into account. This feedback centered around players who wanted a high-launching club to bridge the gap between their longest iron and fairway wood but were skeptical of the draw bias that many players feel is present with hybrids. The previous model proved popular with tour players around the world, making it into the bags of players such as Phil Mickelson, Sam Burns, and Branden Grace. So how does the new model stack up to its popular predecessor?

When assessing the looks of the new Apex UW, the old adage “If it ain't broke, don’t fix it” springs to mind. The club retains a clean, unfussy profile with a gloss black finish in the playing position and no markings on the crown. The clubhead sits extremely squarely behind the ball, and there is no noticeable change in head shape from the original when looking down at address.

The sole of the club has received a makeover, however, and I have to say, in my opinion, not for the better. The sleek carbon style scale effect on the bottom of the original Apex UW has been replaced with a combination of matt black paintwork and busy decorative lines, which I feel gives the product a less premium look than its younger sibling.

This, of course, is a very minor downside as it will be neither visible under a headcover in the bag nor when hitting a shot, but it may have some impact on the shelf appeal of the club.

I tested the Apex UW on a fairly blustery summer's day at Saunton Golf Club in North Devon, and it has to be said, the results were relatively good.

Firstly, the length of the club - which sits between that of a hybrid and fairway wood - facilitates a comfortable address position that, coupled with the compact footprint, inspires a feeling of control perhaps more so than with a traditional fairway wood. The shaft in our test model was the Mitsubishi Chemical MMT 70 Stiff flex stock offering, which has a nice combination of stability and responsiveness.

The minimalistic head design feels easy to align, and the relatively shallow face provides assurance that launching the ball high should be achievable. 

Well-struck shots with the 19-degree model did indeed have an impressively high launch angle but still flew powerfully through a fairly stiff headwind without the excessive backspin that a fairway wood may produce for a higher swing speed player.

The offline misses I did have tended to fall a little to the right, which would be concurrent with Callaway's claim of a neutral CG location that reduces draw bias. Overall, the dispersion was satisfyingly tight, and I was pleasantly surprised at the minimal performance drop-off from my heel and toe strikes, both in regard to distance and line. For a club targeted at more elite-level golfers, this was a nice bonus.

Callaway offers the Mitsubishi Chemical MMT shaft as its stock shaft and Golf Pride's Z Grip with a Callaway logo as the stock grip. A multitude of other shaft, grip, and flex options are available through custom order, but are likely to incur a surcharge. 

The Apex UW will suit mid to lower-handicap golfers looking to fill that tricky area of the bag, transitioning from irons to woods in a multitude of scenarios. Those steering away from the potential draw bias of a hybrid or the high spin characteristics of a higher lofted fairway wood will find a nice middle ground here. A neat look, very neutral flight bias, coupled with a healthy launch with controllable spin, could be the gap filler you have been looking for, although I am not convinced that it has improved on the very impressive original effort.

Is there any shot in golf more daunting than a lengthy approach shot into a green? Like from 200 yards out or even longer? Many of us naturally turn to a bulky fairway wood or low-lofted long iron, and often fail. The odds of most golfers hitting the green from those distances with those clubs, well, frankly suck. True, there are some great hybrids in 2023 that will greatly improve your chances of sticking it on the dance floor. But the farther out you are, the less likely a hybrid can get the job done. So Callaway came up with a solution.

 The Paradym Super Hybrid sits alongside the standard Paradym hybrid, but is built for driver-like power. The company actually took the same blueprint and materials for its Paradym driver and downsized it into this hybrid. This includes an all-titanium, A.I.-designed clubface that yields power and distance. The titanium body is also oversized and sports a triaxial carbon crown. Plus triple MIM weighting promotes extreme forgiveness and a piercing trajectory. Up to 91 grams of tungsten and steel speed cartridges in each clubhead help precisely position the center of gravity for a more penetrating launch. All of this adds up to noticeably longer shots with nice accuracy – all from a smaller hybrid clubhead that looks pretty easy to hit at address.

Callaway boldly markets this as a club made for golfers who want the power of a fairway wood and the versatility of a hybrid – claiming it’s designed specifically to be easier to hit than a fairway wood and give you the confidence to take on the most demanding shots. That also includes tee shots down a narrow fairway.

It’s offered in base lofts of 16, 18, 21, 24 and 27 degrees – the clubheads get smaller as the loft increases – but those are also adjustable from the lightweight OptiFit 3 hosel, helping you dial in the ball flight and launch that you want to see. The deep blue color we now associate with the Paradym range happens to look outstanding as you’re standing over the ball. Plus there’s a slightly squared-off look to the toe we find attractive.

Remember that if you do wind up adding one or more of these to your bag, you need to make sure you account for proper distance gapping between your driver or fairway woods and your longest iron. If these work for you as billed, you’ll need to make some adjustments.

If you plan on buying a Callaway hybrid, look at our handpicked Callaway coupon codes first.

Callaway 2023 Big Bertha Hybrid Review

Callaway has updated its iconic range of Big Bertha clubs and the hybrid included in this collection is a versatile and easy-to-use rescue wood perfect for club golfers seeking more consistency. It is an upgrade on the excellent Big Bertha B21 hybrid which was released back in 2020, delivering faster ball speeds, stronger ball flights and excellent carry distances.

On first inspection, this hybrid comes in a compact package that is not too far off the footprint of the head on the Callaway Paradym hybrid, launched earlier this year. The blade length is a little longer and it sits fairly shallow, instilling a lot of confidence which many players will enjoy. 

The cool red and white detailing featured on the heel and toe of the club adds to the shelf appeal on offer. The sole features a fairly simple, yet, striking design that is similar to what was seen on the premium Great Big Bertha Hybrids. It boasts a stunning grey colorway that is contrasted by pops of silver and some red detailing that help to make this one of the best looking hybrids around. 

The club retails at $349/£279, which is interestingly just $23/£20 shy of the recently released Paradym Hybrid, the top-spec offering of Callaway's new range of clubs. The thing to note here is that this club isn't billed at any golfer in particular. What it hopes to achieve, as with many of the best Big Bertha clubs, is to help you enjoy the game more, by making it easier to play longer shots that stay in play more often. The Big Bertha hybrid is a more forgiving club compared to the Paradym, so really is better for the less experienced player and holds its own against some of the best hybrids for high handicappers. 

It's clear that Callaway has not skimped on innovation here. The main thing to note is that the brand has improved the weighting system on this hybrid compared to the B21. A precision tungsten weight has been added internally to deliver greater forgiveness and higher launch angles. That is twinned with the Jailbreak A.I. and Batwing technology the brand has inserted behind the face, which works in tandem with an A.I. designed Face Cup to produce fast ball speeds and favorable spin from wherever you strike the ball on the face. 

During my testing sessions, I couldn't disagree with any of those claims. The ball felt really hot off the face, and although the sound was slightly muted when hitting from the ground, the sensation was powerful. I was getting ball speeds of around 132mph when I was really ripping through the 3-hybrid and that translated into some pretty nice distances averaging 197 yards. For that reason, this will be one of the best hybrids for seniors or anyone with a slightly slower swing speed, as this lightweight rescue wood did add a lot of fizz and power onto my shots. 

The launch angles from this club were pretty high too; I was impressed with the hang time my ball had. It also didn't feel like my shots fell out of the sky either, with the ball starting off low and climbing before coming down nicely on my target. Even shots struck off-center travelled far and towards my target, which I was particularly grateful for during a very wet testing session at The Springs Resort and Golf Club in Oxfordshire. 

The last thing to note here is that this club is perfect for anyone struggling to keep the ball in play on the course. The weighting system in the Big Bertha is designed to promote a more neutral ball flight and eliminate an unwanted slice. From the shots I hit, I found that this hybrid was quite reliable when delivering fairly straight shots that translated into some pretty nice draws. 

While it may not offer up the same level of technology that you'll find in the premium priced Great Big Bertha Hybrids, this club is really fun to play with and is a great option for any high handicap golfer. It's price point, which is only a scratch off the premium Paradym offering, may put some golfers off buying it, but I think there is a lot of value and enjoyment to be had in this club, which is one of the best Callaway hybrids around.  

If you decide to buy a Callaway golf set, take a look at our hand-selected Callaway coupon codes.

For those in search of a compact hybrid, Titleist has launched a moveable-weight TSR3 model that the brand says should, “give you more control over every shot.” It comes into the range to sit alongside the TSR2 and TSR1 models which together provide golfers with a range of options to suit their own specific needs. In the video below, we compare the performance of the TSR2 and TSR3 hybrid models.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

The Titleist TSR3 hybrid is the most compact of the three options and will likely appeal to those wanting more of an iron-like profile. In addition, you’ll also notice the moveable weight on the sole which allows you to manipulate the centre of gravity and provide the shot-shape you’re after. You will also notice the ‘relief pockets’ in the sole - these have been added to help with turf interaction from a range of different lies. 

We wanted to see whether the TSR3 was one of the best golf hybrids on the market so we tested it alongside the TSR2 on the golf course at Black Bear Golf Club in Orlando. The first thing to talk about is the aesthetic difference between these models. Right from the off, it is clear the TSR3 is significantly more compact. I liked that Titleist is giving golfers some clear differentiation here and as someone who has always veered towards smaller-looking hybrids, this would be my preference.

In my own bag I currently have the original TS3 hybrid. The latest iteration is smaller and a little less offset. In particular, it is shorter from heel-to-toe and I like this as it feels more useable from a range of different lies. 

As you’d expect, it also features some classic Titleist shaping and simple, gloss-black styling. I like the traditional look but if you are after something a bit different (and perhaps a little more modern), there are other models worth considering - like the Cobra King Tec 2023 hybrid. 

Another interesting point of difference is the sound. Whereas the TSR2 is loud and ‘wood-like’ through impact, the TSR3 is has a lower-pitched sound and more powerful feel. This is an important part of any golf club’s overall appeal but of course, it is subjective. For many faster swinging golfers, the duller impact sound of the TSR3 is likely to tick the box - it would certainly be my preference.

In terms of performance, this offered me an impressively strong ball flight. It was noticeably lower than with the Titleist TSR2 hybrid and in truth, given the distance on offer was not a problem, I’d be tempted to add some loft to the 19˚ version I tested.

One of the stand-out features of the TSR3 is the moveable weight system in the sole. It is sleek and easy to use and it noticeably changed my ball flight when I moved the weights. I felt as if, in the neutral set up, I was able to turn the TSR3 over quite easily. With the weight positioned in the toe, I was able to work the ball both ways. 

For me, the biggest improvement over my older TS3 was consistency. Despite the head being a little more compact, the flight was surprisingly reliable. The forgiveness on offer from such a small-headed model is hugely impressive. Throw in the versatility to use this from a range of lies and you have a serious contender for those confident enough to look down on a more compact profile at address.

Titleist TSR2 Hybrid Review

As a user and huge fan of the TSi2 hybrid thanks to my more sweeping delivery into the ball, I was keen to see how Titleist would evolve the design of its more playable hybrid franchise. The TSi2 is one of the more reliable performers in my bag. While I don’t call upon it all that often, when I do the confidence it breeds usually brings about a decent result - which is more than satisfactory when going at a green situated over 200 yards away.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

Titleist has sought to continue with the design features that made TSi2 popular but refining them to make it even more powerful, forgiving and versatile from different lies. The first thing you’ll notice transitioning into TSR2 is that the size and profile has got a lot larger. It sits closer to that of a compact fairway wood than it does a hybrid. For some, this will inspire additional confidence but for me, as a 3-handicap index player, it has gone too far. If I wanted a larger hybrid, I’d put in a 7-wood.

Where the TSR2 hybrid excels is in creating a neutral ball flight. It has a lie angle that is half a degree flatter than standard and my testing showed it had, if anything, a slight fade bias to it - something that can be increased or reduced via the settings on the hosel. A common complaint is that some of the best golf hybrid clubs tend to go left (for a right hander) but that’s not the case here.

Make no mistake, the deeper CG from the more stretched back design makes this hybrid easy to launch and very playable, up there among the most forgiving hybrids around. It has a completely different sound to the sister TSR3 model too, much more metallic and higher pitched, which for some (myself included) translated into a more powerful impact experience. This also comes from how stable the clubhead feels. If you’re a golfer that is prone to the occasional heel or toe strike, you’ll get away with a lot more with the TSR2 and still experience half decent results.

Testing on the Full Swing Kit launch monitor, the TSR2 was around 1mph faster in ball speed off the face than the TSi2, which translated to 2-4 yards of extra carry through the air, helped by a slightly higher ball flight in the same stock loft of 18°. My clubhead speed was also a little faster too - Titleist says the smaller diameter of hosel screw saves weight and also helps with aerodynamics, which could well be where this came from. It certainly felt fast and produced longer carries on a stronger, more towering trajectory.

There are also relief pockets on the sole that essentially reduce the amount of surface area that contacts the ground at impact. It was difficult to decipher the tangible effect of these in testing, I could make a case for the TSR2 extracting the ball from the rough a little more cleanly with the grass not grabbing the clubhead as much, but there wasn’t much in it.

The TSR2 is a forgiving, easy-launching hybrid that has a broad appeal. Any ability of golfer with a low ball flight that prefers hitting woods to longer irons from the tee or fairway will appreciate the performance on offer here. The TSR3 offers a more penetrating flight and moveable weight to alter the shot shape bias, but it doesn’t quite have the power or stability of the TSR2. Will I be putting the TSR2 in the bag in place of the TSi2 hybrid? I don’t think so. Hybrids are a very personal club - finding one you like can be difficult and I’ve never looked down on my TSi2 and thought I could do with something larger or longer. But that’s just me. If you’re long overdue an upgrade in this area of the bag, the TSR2 is an excellent, albeit premium (£259), option well worth considering.

TaylorMade Stealth 2 Hybrid Review

Following on from the extremely popular Stealth range of 2022, TaylorMade has continued with the ‘carbonwood’ franchise bringing the TaylorMade Stealth 2 hybrid to market in 2023. It slots in neatly between the HD and Plus models in terms of size and spin profile, which means it should appeal to the broadest spectrum of players.

WATCH: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

Many effective technologies carry over into the Stealth 2 hybrid, such as V-Steel sole and a refined version of the Inverted Cone face design to maximize speed and consistency on mishits. Once again TaylorMade has found a way of lowering the centre of gravity to promote more speed and an even higher launch than saw in the original Stealth Hybrid model, which was one of the best TaylorMade hybrids we have put to test, while maintaining forgiveness.

There are few hybrids that manage to integrate a slick, classic look while incorporating new technology such as a carbon crown quite as well as the TaylorMade Stealth 2. Though differing slightly from last year's model, the Stealth 2 now boasts a gloss finish as opposed to its predecessor's satin black, a change I feel that highlights the material change and will aid golfers in aligning to their target. TaylorMade continues with the red and black colorway we saw in the original Stealth and as standard will come fitted with a Fujikura Ventus Red TR, the latest offering from the premium shaft brand. A little bonus that comes with the Stealth 2 is the new head cover design, arguably the best looking of any of the new releases for 2023, perhaps only rivaled by the impressive Mizuno ST-Z 230.

The idea behind a hybrid is to make those longer shots into greens easier and take away the pressure of having to strike high long irons, which for many is a hard skill to master. The TaylorMade Stealth 2 really did achieve this, producing a high flight that comes down steeply into greens when I tested it hitting into various par fives. The softness off the face was unmatched in the hybrid space this year, while giving you all the speed and power you could ask for. The highest speed calculated on a GCQuad Launch Monitor was 155mph ball speed and the Stealth 2 produced a very impressive carry distance of 249 yards. It's worth mentioning the feel of a golf club will differ depending on the ball you are using, therefore I use the ball I play with while testing, which is the Titleist Pro V1x.

The V-Steel technology allowed for pleasing turf interaction from all sorts of lies too. The versatility and ease of use makes the Stealth 2 one of the most forgiving hybrids I’ve tested this year. What particularly impressed me was that slightly thin struck shots off the fairway didn’t feel dead off the face and still launched relatively high, producing carry not normally seen from this type of strike. Spin rates remained remarkably consistent with a low of 3107 rpm (revolutions per minute) and a high of 3723 rpm, which considering my ball striking wasn't particularly on-point this day, I was seriously impressed with. The Ping G430 hybrid was one of the only other hybrids where we saw the spin levels remain this stable.

As someone who has a left-miss tendency, I’m fairly particular in choosing a hybrid that doesn’t sit too closed or produces too much of a draw bias. The Stealth 2 does sit with a hint of offset, yet I never seemed to turn a shot over too much. For those seeking more draw bias and looking to fight a right-sided miss (as a right handed golfer) I would recommend checking out the Stealth 2 HD hybrid.

The TaylorMade Stealth 2 comes with a non-adjustable head which doesn’t allow golfers to tune in their performance, however that weight saved from the hosel is used elsewhere in the head to provide even more forgiveness. Better ball strikers who want to shape shots a little more or dial in a specific carry distance should consider the Stealth 2 Plus as an alternative.

All in all, the TaylorMade Stealth 2 was extremely versatile and performed very well from the tee, fairway and the rough. It was powerful, launched high and was very forgiving. There have been incremental changes which resulted in small gains over the previous model, but nevertheless any ways in which the game can be made easier are always welcomed and therefore the Stealth 2 will be one of the best hybrids released this year, especially if you've not upgraded your hybrid for a while

The TaylorMade Stealth 2 hybrid is on sale now with an RRP of $279/£249 in 19°, 22°, 25°, 28° and 31°.

If you decide to buy from the TaylorMade range, check out our handpicked TaylorMade promo codes. 

Wilson Dynapower Hybrid Review

The Wilson brand name is steeped in sporting history and with 62 Major golf championships under its belt, we are always keen to see what strides it makes with regards to new golf equipment. The latest Wilson franchise is the Dynapower range, which features a refined shape and new technology, two things they hope will help see a Wilson Staff tour player reign supreme and win one of golf’s most prestigious titles again in the near future.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

The Wilson Dynapower hybrid has been designed to cater towards a whole host of golfers. When proceeding through the initial stages of design, Wilson liaised with some of its tour players in order to produce a club that would appeal to the best players in the world as well as the average golfer. It is one of larger hybrid profiles on the market this year and on initial inspection the length of the face was the first thing that caught my eye. I can’t say I was a massive fan of the look at address, however I personally tend to prefer a more compact looking head shape. The Dynapower is certainly one of the most forgiving hybrids I’ve tested and perfect for those seeking a confidence inspiring look behind the ball.

So did the performance of the Dynapower match the aesthetics? Honestly, it probably surpassed my expectations. I think when looking at a larger hybrid head shape, automatically as golfers we assume that club will just be a forgiving model with minimal versatility but the Dynapwr really did perform well in the multiple shots I put it through while testing. Yes it didn’t necessarily outperform some of the other popular models I have tested this year such as the Callaway Paradym and Cobra King Tec, but it certainly held its own.

The Wilson Dynapower hybrid produced a soaring high ball flight which came into greens with a steep descent angle, making it perfect for those looking for more help with approaches from distance. It does have a slight draw bias which doesn’t suit someone like myself who already hits a right to left ball flight, conversely it helped correct a slice effectively. 

The new PKR2 face, designed through A.I., allows mishits to fly consistently and keeps ball speeds very similar to shots struck from the middle of the face thanks to varying face thickness. The powerful sensation through the ball was pleasing, as was the turf interaction from both the fairway and the rough. Due to the high launch nature of the Dynapower, I had no issues when striking it out of the first cut and even hit one out of a fairway bunker on a par 5, a shot I would not have tried to have hit with my regular 4 iron.

There really were very few problems I faced when testing the 22° Dynapwr hybrid, but if I was to raise one concern, it would be that the better player who looks to work the ball may struggle to do so with this club. The ability to hit shots with plenty of shape was hard work, as I found out when trying to bend one round the trees - not ideal for someone like myself who’s often in this scenario! Hitting a low trajectory required some fairly drastic set up changes too, which meant into the wind it tended to climb a little. 

Wilson continues to make strides in the hybrid game with the Dynapower. Its forgiving head produces effortless launch, which will help golfers escape from many tricky situations on the course. I believe minor refinements are needed to attract the better ball striker, such as reducing the face length and having some way in lowering spin, perhaps via an adjustable hosel. Overall though, I really was pleasantly surprised with the performance of the Wilson Dynapower hybrid and believe it's certainly one of the best hybrids for high handicappers released this year.

The Wilson Dynapwr will be available from March 2023 and will come to retail at £195, fitted with a superb stock shaft in the Project X HZRDUS Smoke Red RDX.

Mizuno JPX923 Fli-Hi Hybrid Review

Mizuno has definitely upped its woods game in recent years, most recently with the ST-Z 230 driver, and the JPX923 Fli-Hi is certainly not a backwards step. Even as someone who doesn’t currently play with a golf hybrid club or hasn’t had much success in the past with them, it didn’t take me long to find confidence with this club.

Video: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

I found it to be extremely inviting and consistent. The all black head sits very nicely behind the ball and it is easy to see why players may opt for these clubs as opposed to their long irons. The JPX923 Fli-His are available in various lofts between 20° to 29°, which are replacements for the 4-iron through to 7-iron, but they're all only offered to right-handed players.

These hybrids have been designed so the profile increases as the lofts strengthen, giving the stronger lofted clubs more of a fairway wood profile. Mizuno has crafted them in this way to ensure all of the hybrids, including those which are stronger lofted, are useful tools and not just along for the ride. 

To help combat a fade (or slice), the JPX923 Fli-Hi is draw bias with the weight being located internally on the back side. Not only does this encourage right-to-left ball movement, it generates greater spin in the stronger lofted hybrids, giving golfers an increased chance of hitting and holding a green. 

Unlike the ST-Z 230 hybrid, this range of hybrids are all non-adjustable. However, the club is constructed with a high energy 17-4 stainless steel face and 431 SS body, which allows for the hosel to be bent if any custom adjustments need to be made. The sole of the club features a re-engineered Wave Sole which has been designed to expand the CORAREA to deliver more consistent ball speeds, especially lower strikes on the face. 

As a golfer who prefers to play with long irons rather than hybrids, I was really impressed by the JPX923 Fli-Hi hybrid. If ever I was looking for a long iron replacement this club would certainly be one I would consider. If you are struggling with your long irons or looking for a new hybrid this playable one from Mizuno is definitely a club worth adding to your shortlist. For £150 a club, there's a lot to like for the money.

Yonex Ezone Elite 4 Hybrid Review

Yonex has continued to help make the game easier for high handicap golfers on a budget by releasing the Ezone Elite 4 hybrid. Designed for golfers who are new to the game or those looking for more help in gaining height from their longer clubs, the Ezone Elite 4 hybrid looks set to deliver. I tested it indoors on a CGQuad launch monitor as well as on the course to see how it performed.

One of the first things to note about this hybrid were the looks. The gloss dual-tone blue crown may not be to everyone's liking, but it certainly stands out in the bag and behind the ball. The darker blue sitting above the face frames the ball well and the two silver alignment arrows serve their purpose well. The head size itself actually seems fairly compact, although the diagonal grooves on the face help the head appear larger, which will inspire confidence at address.

From a performance standpoint, the Ezone Elite 4 hybrid held its own and produced the kind of data we were expecting to see. While remembering this hybrid is designed for beginners, and most likely slower swingers, we were impressed with how stable the shaft felt considering it was in a regular flex. The 23° 4-hybrid model we tested produced an average carry of 216 yards and felt soft yet powerful off the face. This club has In-Core groove technology, which is placed around the perimeter of the face to allow for flexibility and faster ball speeds, and I certainly noticed the stability on offer.

Where the Ezone Elite 4 Hybrid impressed us most was how forgiving it proved to be on off-center hits. This hybrid is unique in that it has a diagonal groove pattern on the face, which is said to result in more consistent spin and help in correcting the flight on mishits. It's hard to say with any certainty what impact these had but I was impressed with how user-friendly the performance was. The repositioning of weight in the head has lowered the centre of gravity which also improves launch and has made this one of the most forgiving hybrids we have tested this year.

The Yonex Ezone Elite 4 tended to launch and spin higher than most of the hybrids we have tested recently, however it is designed for ease of use, making it a perfect hybrid for high handicappers or those who swing it slower seeking distance. Those who regularly play at a links or in windy conditions may look for something a little less spinny as it was hard to flight lower when needed. Considering the Ezone Elite 4’s target consumer, there wasn’t much of a draw bias tendency, which we normally find to be beneficial when it comes to catering for a higher handicap golfer.

Apart from keeping the ball flight down, the Yonex Ezone Elite 4 hybrid shone brightly on the golf course, especially when used out of tricky lies. The lower CG helped pinch the ball out of divots, and launched the ball on a high trajectory out of the first cut of rough, perfect for advancing the ball down fairways or playing into greens on longer holes.

The Yonex Ezone Elite 4 hybrid is the perfect club to bridge the gap between irons and woods for the higher handicapper by producing a reliable and consistently high ball flight. The Ezone Elite 4 hybrid will retail at £159, slightly under the price point of many of its competitors among the best golf hybrid clubs, another reason to consider this club especially for those newer to the game. The whole Yonex Ezone Elite 4 range will be available from 1st March 2023.

Mizuno ST-Z 230 Hybrid Review

The Mizuno ST-Z 230 hybrids are new for 2023 and look to continue Mizuno's recent form of producing good hybrids and fairways. The ST-Z 230 hybrid uses the same new MAS1C steel face found in the fairways and Cortech Technology found in the whole ST-Z 230 range. Using Titleist Pro V1x golf balls we put this new Mizuno offering to the test both on the golf course and inside on a launch monitor to analyse its performance.

Our first impressions of this club were good. Mizuno has opted for a gloss black crown on the ST-Z 230 hybrid which seems to be the trend in metalwoods this year. The head looks fairly compact at address although the length of the face seems slightly longer than most hybrids we have tested this year. On one hand I can see how this offers confidence to those seeking it in the longer clubs, however the better player may feel as though they’ll struggle to shape the ball with this look at address.

Video: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

We tested the 19° model with a UST Mamiya LINQ stiff shaft which is an excellent stock shaft offering. The ironically similarly named Lamkin ST Hybrid 360 grip is also a nice touch without an upcharge on the fairly premium £279 price tag. 

The Cortech Chamber allows weight to be moved closer to the face, as well as lowering the centre of gravity to help control launch and spin. The sweet spot has been slightly lowered meaning these forgiving hybrids are made even easier to hit, especially off tighter lies from the fairway. The ST-Z 230 hybrid performed exceptionally well out the rough with the ball still launching high and coming into greens softly, perfect for longer shots into the green.

With an adjustable hosel, golfers have the ability to tune the club to promote or fight a certain ball flight. Where hybrids are designed typically with a draw bias, I didn’t get the feeling I would hit the STZ-230 left. However the data captured by a GCQuad Launch Monitor showed all of my shots fell left of target, albeit consistently and not by much - I averaged 5.3 yards left of target, which is more than playable. The accuracy combined with it's decent length, made the ST-Z 230 one of the best hybrids I have hit recently. In a right handed model the ST-Z 230 hybrid will be available in a two hybrid model through to a five hybrid model providing a replacement for all the typical long irons.

The ST-Z 230 hybrid produced an average ball speed of 144mph and a carry distance of 226 yards, which for myself is pretty close to where I would want to see a three iron replacement sit. The mid-low spin characteristics of the ST-Z 230 model ran true as I produced on average 3534rpm (revolutions per minute) of spin, which considering I was using quite a light shaft, really surprised me and allowed me to swing freely knowing the ball wasn’t going to climb up too much.

The Mizuno ST-Z 230 is a great new hybrid option and one of the most forgiving hybrids to be released this year. The consistent speed and spin made it very reliable and it proved to be very versatile, performing well off the tee, from the fairway and the rough. The whole ST-Z 230 family will be available in February 2023.

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Cobra King Tec 2023 Hybrid Review

Alongside the Aerojet hybrid, Cobra has also released the new King Tec hybrid for 2023. This is the second generation that will come in to replace last year's King Tec model with a refined shape, H.O.T Face Technology, and a moveable weight system which really helps this hybrid stand out against its competitors. 

One of the first things we noticed when looking at the new King Tec hybrid next to its predecessor was how Cobra has done an excellent job in cleaning up the aesthetics. The contrasting grey topline on the previous model has been removed and, while it provided a good alignment aid, the new model with a one-tone matte black finish makes the head look much more compact and will make the new model more appealing to a wider variety of golfers. The carbon crown is lighter and has allowed for weight to be redistributed throughout the head to aid speed and forgiveness and made this one of the most forgiving hybrids we have tested. Due to impressive performance in all areas the King Tec hybrid earns a spot in our 2023 Editor's Choice.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

The sole looks fairly similar too, with the three interchangeable weights that allow golfers to set the club up to produce a certain ball flight. As standard, the club comes with two 12g weights, although 14g and 10g weights are available through custom orders, and a lighter 3g weight. This was particularly fun to play around with and as someone who tends to miss to the left, I swapped the weights around and found my ball flight straightened out dramatically with the lighter weight in the heel, even on off-center strikes, and was particularly helpful when it came to attacking pins on the right side of greens. 

We were honestly blown away with how hot the King Tec hybrid felt off the face and the data gathered by a GCQuad Launch Monitor while using Titleist Pro V1x golf balls backed up our suspicions. With average ball speeds of 149mph and an average carry distance of 244 yards it not only outperformed the King Tec 2022 model but also was longer than any other hybrid we tested this year. My only criticism of the club was that It actually went too far for the gapping of my clubs at the top end of the bag, however thanks to the adjustable hosel there is the option to loft up/down 1.5° meaning fitting the King Tec hybrid into your bag should not be an issue.

The Cobra King Tec hybrid was one of the more versatile hybrids we have tested due to its superb length but also able to perform out of the rough. It made light work of hitting out of first and second cut with the ball still launching and spinning enough to stop on greens. Dirt tended to gather in the weights on the sole, which often left the club looking untidy, but it's a sacrifice worth making for the performance. Overall, we think one of the best hybrids we have tested in recent times. The King Tec hybrid will be available to purchase from the 3rd February 2023 and will have an RRP of £249.

Ping G430 Hybrid Review

Ping has produced some of the most versatile and forgiving hybrids on the market in recent years and that trend doesn’t look as though it’s stopping anytime soon. The new G430 hybrid is all things Ping does well - clean, stylish aesthetics, along with performance that makes it easier to play your best golf more often. Two aspects that help earn it's way into our Editor's Choice 2023 awards.

WATCH: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

The G430 hybrid features the same new Carbonwrap technology, as seen in the G430 fairways and LST driver. A new design made to save weight in the crown to lower the CG (centre of gravity) which helps produce more launch and speed. The head is fairly compact and the lines on the face aid alignment when at address. A singular grey dot on the top line is a simple yet classy alignment tool that replaces the three dots seen on the G425 hybrid. The sole sits flush to the turf making the club look shallow which inspires confidence. The acoustics of Ping clubs have sometimes been something that deters golfers from using them, but the G430 range certainly has had the iconic ‘tinny’ Ping sound toned down to make it a much more pleasurable sound through impact.

The G430 hybrid we tested was the 19° (3hy) model, but with an adjustable hosel that has eight positions, it's easy to customize and dial in the ball flight you desire. There are six loft options available ranging from 17° (2hy) to 34° (7hy), perfect for those less confident with the longer irons and looking for help launching the ball with more stopping power on the stronger lofted clubs. From testing the G430 hybrid on a GCQuad Launch Monitor with Titleist Pro V1x golf balls, we found the G430 surprisingly long for how forgiving and versatile it is. 

The G430 gave me 145mph ball speed while producing and an average of 234 yards of carry - more than enough distance to use this off the tee on tighter holes and exactly where I would want to see a three iron replacement. The average angle of descent was 42° meaning holding greens from distance was not an issue with the ball landing as if struck by a mid iron.

The Ping G430 hybrid is also ultra forgiving on miss-hits and provides a strong, powerful flight when struck well. It also performed decently out of a multitude of lies - playing from the rough was not an issue as the ball jumped off the face and performed well from shots struck low on the face. The ease of use of the G430 hybrid is partially thanks to the tungsten backweight which was added so the perimeter could been extended to aid forgiveness and aid launch and made it one of the most forgiving hybrid clubs we have hit. Shot shaping was harder than some smaller headed hybrids although ultimately it seems crazy to complain about the ball flying too straight! Through impact golfers can expect a softer, compressed feeling off the face, which was a welcomed surprise as I feel a lot of hybrids often feel more on the firmer side.

The Ping G430 hybrid is a serious contender as one of the best hybrid clubs we have hit and is made more attractive due to it suiting all levels of golfer. There are five stock shaft options featuring low and higher spinning options as well as the option to select the thickness of the Golf Pride Tour Velvet grip, allowing golfers to customize the G430 to their specifications.

The Ping G430 hybrid, with an RRP of $325/£295, is positioned more towards the premium end of the market, but we believe its outstanding overall performance justifies the cost. They will be available to purchase as of the 27th January 2023.

TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Rescue Hybrid Review

The TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Rescue hybrid has undergone a bit of a transformation compared to the previous TaylorMade Stealth Plus hybrid. The all steel head has been replaced with an ‘Infinity’ carbon crown which is there to save weight up top so that the centre of gravity can be lowered.

WATCH: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

This is good not only for forgiveness but also for launch as creating a high flight with a soft landing is what hybrids are all about. With more weighting in the rear of the sole from the screw weight, then the MOI of the head is improved too, which is important in a head of this size.

The shape has been tweaked with the high toe combined with a more rounded toe so that the Stealth 2 Plus looks less like an upside down head than the previous model. This makes it set really close to the ground and in testing made it very easy to get right into the back of the ball, something that will appeal to both high handicappers and seniors.

The revised head shape means it looks shorter at address without reducing the face size, plus a little straighter too. The carbon crown is visible with a matt design showing through which may not appeal to all.

The Forged Twist Face sits in front of an improved Inverted Cone on the inside to improve forgiveness and the feel from this is up with the best hybrid golf clubs. The Speed Pocket behind the leading edge remains and offers increased ball speed in a design that does not catch in the turf.

The main difference from the standard TaylorMade Stealth 2 Rescue apart from the head shape is the adjustable hosel. This enables you to adjust the loft and lie buy up to +/- 1.5° and can be useful in varying the trajectory if are playing courses that need a driving hybrid or an approach hybrid.

For a better players’ hybrid, the TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Rescue was easier to launch than I was expecting and, with a wide choice of lofts from 2 (17°), 3 (19.5°) and 4 (22°) there should be something for everyone. The Plus version should have greater appeal to single figure handicappers who want a more neutral playing hybrid than the standard Stealth 2 Rescue and its inherent slight draw bias.

Unlike the TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Fairway, the Stealth 2 Plus Rescue is only £10 more than the standard model and is almost as easy to hit. Hybrids are all about gapping so a fitting session would be recommended to get the right model for your game, but if the Stealth Plus hybrid comes to the Rescue then welcome it with open arms.

Should you decide to buy from the TaylorMade range, a look at our helpful TaylorMade coupon codes.

TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Hybrid 

The TaylorMade Stealth 2 range may prove to be the most versatile hybrid family in golf this year. With two offerings, the slightly smaller headed Stealth 2 and the HD version, a mid-sized hybrid. The latter of which we discuss its performance below.

The TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD hybrid looks to be the ultimate long iron replacement for those who struggle to get optimal launch as well as golfers who fight a right miss at the top end of the bag. This superbly versatile offering from TaylorMade is aimed at the mid-high handicapper looking for complete forgiveness on longer shots into greens or an alternative option when the big-stick is misbehaving. 

WATCH: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

The Stealth 2 HD hybrid looks more sleek that its predecessor the Stealth HD hybrid thanks to a new gloss black carbon crown. At address it sits flush to the turf inspiring confidence and thanks partially to a slightly off-set position behind the ball. The V Steel Design that has featured on so many TaylorMade metal woods in the past, continues to provide exceptional movement through the turf, making difficult lies certainly seem more playable. Multiple shots were hit from a multitude of lies and the ball rarely failed to come out as if it were lying on the fairway when struck, which was seriously impressive. There is no doubt this is one of the most forgiving hybrids we have tested.

The continued use of Twist Face technology in TaylorMade hybrids allows for the ball flight produced from miss-hits to be neutralised, resulting in more fairways and greens found. This HD model with its slightly larger head size and lower CG (centre of gravity) produces a high launch, making it much easier to use for a larger range of golfers. We found its draw bias to be effective when testing, seeing most of our shots finish left of target, although I must admit, this is my miss in general!

We put the TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Hybrid fixed at 20° though it paces on a GCQuad Launch Monitor using Titleist Pro V1x golf balls to see how it performed without being interfered by the elements. The Stealth 2 HD produced fast ball speeds, averaging 150mph (2 mph up on last years model) and carried on average 233 yards through the air. It did spin more than last years model, but change in stock shaft could be reliable. The TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Hybrid now comes armed with a Fujikura Speeder NX shaft in a red colorway which seemed very stable and reliable upon testing, despite being weaker and lighter than what I typically used.

Overall The TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD hybrid was extremely reliable in producing a similar ball flight regardless of lie, as well as providing decent carry distances. The high launch, draw bias character of this club makes it perfect for the mid-high handicapper looking for distance and forgiveness. It’s tough to see how the Stealth 2 HD hybrid can’t be considered one of the best hybrid clubs on the market. The club has an RRP of £239 and will be available to purchase as of the 17th February 2023.

If you choose to buy the Stealth 2 HD Hybrid, check out our helpful TaylorMade promo codes.

Cobra Aerojet Hybrid Review

The Aerojet hybrid is Cobra’s newest release which is to replace the popular LTDx family. Cobra has been establishing itself as a big player in the metalwood game in recent years and the Aerojet range is looking to continue that trend. The Aerojet hybrid is available in standard length as well as a one-length option and is designed to create forgiveness on approach shots from distance as well as being extremely versatile. We tested the standard design which was set at 21° (4h) to see how it performed through a variety of lies on the course as well as getting data inside in neutral conditions.

WATCH: Gear Of The Week show discusses the new TaylorMade Stealth 2, Cobra Aerojet and Ping G430 

During our testing we found that there was plenty to like about the Aerojet hybrid and felt as though it’s a model that will suit golfers of nearly all abilities. One of the first things we noticed was how effortless it was to launch the ball which provided a towering strong flight with superb carry and stopping power - the complete performance package. All indoor testing was conducted with Titleist Pro V1x golf balls and data was gathered using a Foresight Sports GCQuad Launch Monitor. 

The crown is gloss black, the sole features the red, white and blue colorway as found in the rest of the Aerojet family. At address the hybrid has noticeably more weight behind the toe to help fight against a right miss, however it may not inspire confidence to those who typically turn the ball over. My only criticism would be the bonded head, which doesn’t allow any customization to help promote a certain ball flight or hit a specific carry distance by tweaking the loft.

The Aerojet popped the ball up nicely out of tricky lies from the rough, yet provided a powerful ball flight off the tee thanks to a combination of fast ball speeds (147.8mph on average) and consistent spin rates with an average of 3805 rpm (revolutions per minute). The consistent numbers the Aerojet hybrid produced we would have to put largely down to the H.O.T Face Design, which is a face insert designed to limit inconsistent spin rates and ball speeds regardless of strike location. This was extremely noticeable on the course, where the ball felt fast off the face and came out in a very similar window almost every time. This made it one of the most forgiving hybrids we have tested.

The Cobra Aerojet hybrid features the new PWR-Bridge technology found in the rest of the Aerojet family, a design created to create maximum ball speeds by providing optimum amounts of flexibility within the face and sole through impact. The Aerojet hybrid produced more consistent numbers across the board in comparison the LTDx hybrid, launching over 1.5° higher on average, spinning less and carrying a yard further through the air, averaging 238 yards.

The reliability and versatility of the Cobra Aerojet hybrid is something golfers will love due to the predictable ball flight, in-turn relieving pressure on shots from a longer distance. For those looking for a long iron replacement which promotes a slight draw, the Aerojet is a very good option and is almost a certainty to become one of the best hybrids released this year. It comes in at a slightly lower price point than its competitors with an RRP of £219 making it even more appealing and will feature a KBS PGI shaft offered in stiff, regular or lite flexes. It will be available to purchase from the 10th February 2023 - fill your boots.

Callaway Paradym X Hybrid Review

When it comes to hybrid clubs Callaway has two offerings this year - the Paradym and Paradym X. The Paradym X has the larger footprint of the two models and possesses more draw bias to aid a player who typically misses to the right. Both models create high, towering ball flights, with the X designed to launch and fly a little higher than the standard model. The Paradym X hybrid is designed for the mid-high handicapper, providing a perfect blend of distance and forgiveness enabling this club to easily fit into the bag of the average golfer. I tested the Callaway Paradym X hybrid both indoors on a launch monitor and on the course to see just how impressive and forgiving this model would be and if we could consider it one of the best Callaway hybrid models.

WATCH: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

So what is the difference between the Paradym X and last year's model, the Rogue ST Max OS? On initial inspection, Callaway has reverted back to a classic gloss black crown for the hybrids in the Paradym range. I do think this detracts from shelf appeal a little and would love to have seen the blue carbon crown found on the Paradym driver and Paradym fairway. Interestingly despite being a slight draw bias model, the Paradym X has very little offset at address, which I think will certainly make this a more attractive prospect to a large proportion of golfers. 

The Paradym X is certainly more a full-sized wood-shaped hybrid, which will inspire confidence from a multitude of lies on the course thanks to the new Cutwave Sole Design. Hitting out of thick, wet rough and lies where the ball was sitting down slightly, the design seemed to make picking the ball cleanly easier. It also produced a high but powerful ball flight with a hint of draw when used off the tee.

The impressive distance and forgiveness was noticeable, particularly from off-center.  Using both Titleist Pro V1x golf balls and a Foresight Sports CGQuad Launch monitor, I saw that spin rates on both models stayed within 300 rpm (revolutions per minute) of each other across testing, averaging 3362 rpm. This meant I saw a consistent ball flight, albeit with the ball sometimes drifting left of target due to the design of the head.

When testing an 18° model I was seeing an average carry distance of 234 yards, which was actually a yard shorter than its predecessor the Rogue ST Max OS. However due to the lower spin rate (nearly 1000 rpm on average) of the Paradym X, it produced a stronger ball flight, which combined with a slightly larger head inspires confidence behind the ball. For that reason there’s no doubt this is one of the most forgiving hybrids we have tested in recent times. Thanks to the range of lofts offered by Callaway, the Paradym X hybrid would be the perfect replacement for multiple long irons with lofts ranging from 18 to 30 degrees.

The Callaway Paradym X hybrid's impressive versatility and power makes this seriously worth considering for the mid-to-high handicapper looking for more forgiveness at the top end of their bag. The lower handicapper may consider the Callaway Pardaym hybrid if looking for similar forgiveness but with a slightly lower flight and a more compact head at address. 

The Callaway Paradym X hybrid will be available to purchase from the 24th February 2023 and will retail at $299/£299. A Project X HZRDUS Silver will come fitted as standard in regular and stiff flex shafts. Lighter flex options are available in the Aldila Ascent PL Blue shaft.

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Callaway Paradym Hybrid Review

New for 2023, I believe the Callaway Paradym hybrid will take the utility metal market by storm. With new Jailbreak Batwing Technology featuring in the whole Paradym metal woods family - including the Callaway Paradym driver - and newly designed Tungsten Speed Cartridge pushing the centre of gravity lower and further forward to help increase launch and optimise spin, the Callaway Paradym hybrid certainly hasn't skimped on the tech.

WATCH: Sam De'Ath and Neil Tappin discuss the best hybrids of 2023

One of the first things we noticed when peeling the headcover off for the first time is that the head is more of a mid-sized, wood-shaped hybrid, which I really enjoyed and should appeal to varying abilities and tastes. At address, the Paradym hybrid will fill the user with confidence, while sitting square enough that the better player will still feel as though they’ll be able to orchestrate the shot they desire and not hit frustrating hooks (an aspect to hybrid play that some golfers struggle with). Callaway has interestingly moved away from the matte black finish that we saw on the Rogue ST Max hybrid and instead has reverted to a more traditional gloss black crown.

The RRP of $299/£299 is pretty punchy, but is its value reflected in performance? I tested an 18° sample indoors on a GCQuad Launch Monitor at Foresight Sports HQ, as well as out of various lies on the course at North Hants Golf Club. We wanted to see if the Paradym would be considered one of the best golf hybrids by comparing it to its predecessor, the Callaway Rogue ST Max hybrid. All testing was conducted with Titleist Pro V1x golf balls and stiff shafts in each respective stock option, being a Project X HZRDUS Silver in the Paradym and Tensei AV Raw Blue in the Rogue ST Max.

The Callaway Paradym hybrid performed really solidly as expected with ball speeds matching the impressive Rogue ST Max in at around 150mph while launching around the 12° mark which was a little lower than expected. Spin rates remained very consistent among the shots I hit with the Paradym and this ran true when on the course, seeing a very repetitive ball flight off both the tee and off the fairway. My carry numbers off the deck also repeated with an average of 245 yards in comparison to the Rogue ST Max which averaged 236 through the air, the former of which is exactly where I would want to see a strong three iron replacement. Due to the 455 Face Cup design mentioned previously, the Paradym provided a soft yet powerful feel even from off-centre hits and a slightly more dull pitch which I personally really enjoyed in comparison to the Rogue ST Max which felt firmer off the face and marginally louder at impact.

The new Cutwave Sole design made tearing through wet tangly rough far easier than I have experienced with other hybrids and an increased camber on the leading edge made the Paradym hybrid extremely versatile. Shot shaping came relatively easy, although producing a lower ball flight into the wind proved difficult, however this was expected with its spin and launch profile.

Overall I thought the Callaway Paradym hybrid performed exceptionally well across the board and provided the user-friendly experience we received previously with the Rogue ST Max making it one of the most forgiving hybrids we’ve tested. Gains were minimal over the previous model and its mid-sized head may not necessarily fit the eye of a lower handicapper, but the consistent ball flight produced from a variety of lies should not be overlooked by any level of golfer and deserves it's place in our 2023 Editor's Choice.

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Srixon ZX Mk II Hybrid Review

The Srixon ZX Mk II hybrid has taken the best bits from the previous Srixon ZX hybrid and tweaked them a little. The footprint and head shape are still pretty much the same, but the step crown has gone leaving a smooth head which looks much cleaner at address like most of the best golf hybrid clubs.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

The darker look has been replaced with a matte grey finish and the alignment decal is well positioned and subtle enough not to take over when behind the ball. The taller crown raises the CG a little back to where it was with the earlier Srixon Z H85 hybrid and this will add a little more spin so get the ball launching a touch higher for a longer shot.

The face angle is a little squarer and roll has reduced a little on the face which sits in front of the Rebound Frame on the inside of the head that stiffens the structure to improve ball speed. This makes it one of the best hybrid golf clubs for higher handicappers who are looking for that extra distance. The Srixon ZX Mk II hybrid plays more neutral than most thanks to the high toe design so many better players who hate to see hybrids go left will find this more to their liking. 

There is no adjustability, just a fixed hosel, which I prefer in this type of club as it creates a better balance. The revised sole design is similar to the Srixon ZX Mk II fairway with notches in the heel and toe to create space to make the club more versatile. It certainly went through the grass very easily and will be a great hybrid from the tee, fairway or semi rough.

The versatility extends to the lofts which go from a 17° 2H to a 28° 6H so there should be something in there for better players and also mid-handicappers who are looking for long iron replacements. The Srixon ZX Mk II hybrid is more at the premium end of the market, but you do get a quality club for your money, especially as it's one of the most forgiving hybrids we have seen so far in 2023. 

Finding the right combination of clubs at the top end of the bag is a challenge for every golfer. A versatile hybrid that you can confidently use from the fairway, rough, off the tee and even around the green can be invaluable. One brand with a new offering in this department looking to attract your attention is PXG with its 0211 metalwoods. 

The headline product in the range is the PXG 0211 2022 driver which offers hugely impressive all round performance at a very competitive price. In comparison, the hybrid doesn’t represent quite the same saving relative to the rest of the best golf hybrids on the market but is it still worth considering? We wanted to find out so I tested the 19˚ 3-hybrid on the golf course and using a Trackman launch monitor. 

Make no mistake, this hybrid stands out for its clean yet modern aesthetics. Relative to other hybrids on the market - like the TaylorMade Stealth rescue - it is fairly long from toe-to-heel. I liked this confidence-inspiring look at address but crucially, it isn’t too bulky. That’s because from front to back it is quite shallow - for a comparison, think of the popular Adams hybrids from the past, such as the Adams Pro. This immediately makes it feel like a versatile option that has enough power behind the face to hit powerfully off the tee without being too big to use effectively from the rough. 

The clean, attractive matte black finish on the crown was another big plus. The alignment aid stands out clearly without being too big.

What struck me during my launch monitor testing was how powerful it was. The 19˚ version I tested averaged 228 yards of carry. With a launch angle of 9.7 ˚, the flight was strong too. In truth, if I was putting this into my bag I’d be tempted to give up a few yards to go up in loft for a set up that would help me stop the ball into the greens a little easier. 

Having said that, the powerful ball flight really shone during my on the course testing. On a wet and blustery autumn day, the ball seemed to fly through the wind unaffected. Both off the tee and off the fairway it provided me with accuracy and distance. The Arccos data graphic below shows a second shot into a par 5. Playing uphill, across the wind and from the rough, I was just trying to get myself back into position. That it got so close to the green was a huge bonus that helped set up a much-needed birdie.

Of the new PXG 0211 range, the driver will naturally attract the limelight but that’s not to say there isn’t impressive performance elsewhere. The hybrid in particular is a superb offering. From a range of lies, this delivered consistently powerful shots. For those in search of a truly versatile option for the top end of the bag, this is well worth considering.

TaylorMade Stealth Plus Rescue Review

TaylorMade Stealth has been one of the biggest equipment stories in decades, particularly the new TaylorMade Stealth Driver with its red carbon face and black crown replacing titanium and steel. Hybrid faces are far too small an area for TaylorMade to use a softer carbon insert, so in this new Stealth Plus Rescue review, we’re looking at product evolution rather than revolution.

The new Stealth Plus Rescue and Stealth Rescue replace TaylorMade’s SIM2 Rescue and SIM2 Max Rescue, both of which were rated highly among the best hybrids of 2021. If you’re confused about the difference between a Hybrid club and a Rescue club, they’re essentially the same thing, but TaylorMade was smart enough to own the ‘rescue’ space and branding when it introduced its first hybrid long-iron replacements in 2002.

In this review of the TaylorMade Stealth Plus Rescue, we test it out on the course, at the range and using a launch monitor with Titleist ProV1x golf balls.

TaylorMade says the Stealth Plus and Stealth Rescue clubs were developed with input from the growing number of tour players choosing to use a TaylorMade hybrid, which includes Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson in recent seasons. All the tried and tested TaylorMade metalwood technology is here again, from the V Steel sole to Twist Face and the Speed Pocket; so we’re confident that it’ll interact well with the turf, remain stable through impact and be competitive in terms of ball speed and launch.

The Stealth Plus rescue has a sleek, tall head with a high-toe. Together with its attractive top line and square face, it’s more suited to better players that prefer iron-like hybrids rather than mini fairway wood heads.

Compare it to the Stealth Rescue and there’s a clear difference. One promises distance and forgiveness, the Stealth Plus Rescue is designed for distance and control. Some players may find the smaller head intimidating but it has definite benefits when it comes to workability and performance from a range of different lies, including from rough, side slopes, tighter fairways and bare lies. The two-tone crown looks great and is offset well by the glossy black alignment band which frames the forged twist face and wraps around the adjustable hosel.

The Stealth Plus Rescue is a great looking golf club but does it deliver performance benefits, over and above previous models?

Our launch monitor testing was revealing. Stealth Plus was one of the longest hybrids tested in 2022 with an average carry distance of 223 yards and average total distance of 238 yards. Spin rate was low at 3319 rpm and its peak height was 37 yards, suggesting a flight that is penetrating and hot. Whilst this is great off the tee, it’s not always desirable if you’re looking to stop the ball quickly on a par-five green or control it off the tee on firmer fairways.

The feel off the face is dense and heavy, which I like. You get a real sense of a heavy ball compression and then a spring effect as the ball fires off with a muted thwack.

On the course, Stealth Plus Rescue was excellent off the tee and it was long, penetrating and workable. Most hybrids are hard to fade and naturally lean towards a draw flight but I felt confident I could cut one into a green or fade it off the tee; which is a real plus for better players.

I could hit this club all day off the tee or as a second shot club on long par-fives. I’m not sure it offers the finesse needed to choke down on it at a longer par three or stop one quickly into a par-five ringed by water. It’s impressively long for a rescue club. The sleek profile and v-steel sole made it easy to use on the hybrid chip and with the denser feel, I think it would be real asset around the green compared to other hybrids.

One counter to the Stealth Plus Rescue’s power and low spinning flight is its adjustability. If you knew you had to play several higher softer landing approach shots, you could loft up; likewise loft down if you needed to hit it off the tee a lot on a tighter, trickier layout.

This is close to being the perfect hybrid club. Looks, performance and workability all rolled up in eye catching red and black. It is available in lofts of 2/17°, 3/19.5° and 4/22°. It comes with the Project X HZRDUS Smoke RDX Red HY shaft, with numerous custom shaft options available at no upcharge. Fitted with a stock Lamkin Crossline Black/Red Grip (50g).

If you opt to add the Stealth Plus Rescue to your bag, take a look at our TaylorMade voucher codes.

Wilson Launch Pad FY Hybrid Review

Golfers interested in the Wilson Launch Pad range, which includes a driver and irons,
will naturally want equipment that is easy to hit and offers lots of potential for game improvement. The Wilson Launch Pad FY hybrid fits right in this sweet spot. It’s a blend of fairway wood and hybrid, with a generously sized 19.5° head, that launches it high and helps stop the ball quickly going into greens.

Straddling the fairway wood and hybrid slots in the bag places this club firmly in the fast-growing niche of super hybrids designed for players who struggle with fairway woods but enjoy the versatility and playability of hybrids.

To test it out, we took it to the performance testing studio at Wynyard Club on Teesside using a Foresight Sports GC Quad launch monitor and Titleist ProV1x golf balls. We played a round on Wynyard’s Wellington course and finished off with a range session to see how this club matched up with the best hybrids of 2022.

The first thing you notice about the Wilson LP FY hybrid is how closed it sits. Wilson’s engineers have designed the geometry of the face with a clear draw bias. This is good news for any golfer who slices a lot and wants to straighten up their ball flight. Most mid to high handicap golfers come over the top and hit across the ball, producing a left to right shot shape.

It’s less attractive to golfers who naturally draw the ball, like I do, and throughout the testing I battled to limit my draw turning into a hook. Going back the other way and fading it was almost impossible.

In general, this club delivered on its main selling points. It’s forgiving, easy to hit out of a range of lies; including rough and off tight bare fairways. It flights it very high. It’s built to be light, from the shaft to the high-strength Carpenter Custom Face and that lightness makes you feel you can be aggressive and attack the ball.

At £175 RRP, the Wilson Launch Pad FY hybrid is a considerable saving compared to leading manufacturers. You get a lot for your money, including a True Temper Project X EvenFlow 75g shaft finished with an attractive grey swirl. The grip is a midsize Wilson branded Tour Velvet equivalent and feels good. The headcover is stylish, would blend well in most bags.

The clubhead is unfussy head with a sleek soleplate and eye-catching graphics that promote its draw bias characteristics. There is no adjustability in either weighting or shaft sleeve but at this budget price point, that’s understandable. My numbers with this club were a mixed bag on launch monitor testing. Ball speed, launch and peak height were good but spin rate was worryingly high at 5425 rpm and an average carry distance of 202 yards placed the Wilson LP FY a long way behind the hybrid competition.

As with all testing, the experience is subjective and what didn’t click for one tester, might be ideal for another golfer. Wilson has produced a great value hybrid that will work for a lot of golfers, instilling confidence and making it easier to hit longer shots from a broad range of lies and on-course situations.

Honma TW 757 Hybrid Review

The Honma TW 757 hybrids are new for 2022 and arrive promising faster ball speeds and higher launch thanks to improved Carbon Slot technology in the sole. Honma makes clubs at the high-end of the market, so we were keen to see how its new innovations performed on a launch monitor, at the range and on the course using Titleist ProV1x golf balls.

The model on test was the 21° 4H with the Vizard 50 shaft in stiff. Pull off the headcover and it’s a simple, elegant looking club. The design is compact and classic, white grooves and a clean black carbon crown. Honma doesn’t sign up to the idea that woods need to be oversized to be forgiving and this hybrid is a good example.

There are progressive internal weights placed low in the head and a small sole slot for optimal launch and faster ball speeds. On the launch monitor, numbers were generally good. It launched nicely at 18°, with an average carry of 208 yards and had a total average distance of 221 yards – making it a great replacement for a 3 or 4 iron. Ball speed and spin rate were right there with the best hybrids of 2022.

There were lots of positives in the TW 757 hybrid test. It feels great, a combination of firm and soft, and the lightweight Maraging 455 Steel Cup-Face is lively and responsive. The impact sound is high pitched and maybe too loud for players that like a more muted thwack through the ball.

Out on the golf course and on the range, I found this club popped up for me and flew higher than I’d like. You get plenty of stopping power but in windier conditions, I had to work hard to keep the flight down and stop it getting buffeted by the wind. Great on a still day but challenging when conditions worsen.

The shaft is significantly lighter than I’d typically play but was still stable and I never felt close to overpowering it. The stock Honma (TCRN Rubber M60) grip has a hard upper section that will bother anyone who doesn’t play with a glove and for £299 RRP, you’d expect better for your money.

My overall impression is that this is a great addition to the hybrid market and one of the most forgiving hybrids we’ve tested, especially considering its tour inspired profile and design. Available in 3H, 4H, 5H and 6H with lofts ranging from 18° to 27°.