TaylorMade SLDR iron launched

The SLDR range is expanding into the iron category with the introduction of the TaylorMade SLDR iron, which has a classic clubhead combined with an enhanced Speed Pocket.

The new irons feature a classic clubhead in terms of shape, size and finish, and should offer more distance and yardage consistency thanks to an improved Speed Pocket.

The SLDR iron’s Speed Pocket is characterised by a 2mm-wide slot cut high up behind the clubface. This slot enables a large area of the face to flex and rebound at impact, resulting in faster ball speeds, a higher launch angle, strong ball flight and a steeper, quick stopping descent angle.

Tomo Bystedt, TaylorMade’s Director of Product Creation for Irons, told GM: “The new ThruSlot extends all the way through the bottom cavity, and works in conjunction with the ultra-thin clubface and deep undercut to promote tremendous face-flex at impact.”

In addition, ThruSlot Technology promotes a higher ball flight, longer carry distances and more consistent gapping between irons than the older version found in the SpeedBlade and RocketBladez irons, as demonstrated right.

The SLDR iron's sound and feel benefit from a vibration-dampening system that includes the polymer that fills the Speed Pocket and a shock-absorbing badge positioned in the cavity.

Because of the SLDR iron’s slim topline and thin sole they should be playable for both tour professionals and amateur golfers.

The SLDR irons are available in eight piece sets (4-AW being the most popular) in a choice of KBS’s new Tour C-Taper 90 steel shaft (£749), and Fujikura graphite shafts (£849).