If you’re a golf beginner, investing in a set of good irons for beginners will arguably give you the greatest return and benefit for your money. But with all the options and the big investment, knowing where to start looking can be difficult.
Here are the 10 best irons for beginners:
- Srixon ZX4 MK II irons — Best Overall
- Ping G430 Irons — Best for Forgiveness
- Cobra Golf 2022 LTDX — Best Budget Pick
- Callaway Paradym X Irons — Best for Explosiveness
- Callaway Big Bertha 23 Combo Iron Set — Best for Distance
- Cobra Aerojet Irons — Best for Slow Swing Speed
- Mizuno Golf Men’s JPX921 Hot Metal Iron Set — Best for High Launch
- Ping G425 Iron Set — Best for Consistency
- Callaway Rogue ST Max OS Lite Irons — Best for Stopping Power
- TaylorMade Golf P790 Men’s Iron Set — Best for Feel
In this article, we will take a look at the key factors to consider when making your selection and take you through 10 of the best irons for beginners 2023 on the market right now.
3 Featured Irons for Beginners
| Best Overall | Best For Forgiveness | Best Budget Pick | |
| Iron Set | Srixon ZX4 MK II Irons | Ping G430 Irons | Cobra Golf 2022 LTDX Irons |
| Pros | – Incredible consistency | – Notably longer than the G425 | – Excellent stopping power |
| – Ample stopping power | – Impressive stopping power | – High ball speed | |
| – Good balance of forgiveness and playability | – Consistent even when off-center | – Integrated Arccos Smart Sensors | |
| Cons | – Could be intimidating for higher handicappers | – The badge appearance could be divisive | – Sizeable profile behind the ball at address |
| Price Score | 92.0 | 88.5 | 84.2 |
| Distance Score | 87.9 | 92.7 | 85.3 |
| Spin Score | 90.3 | 85.1 | 88.6 |
| Rating | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.3 |
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How We Reviewed These Products
Golfspan only shares equipment and brands we trust.
I’m a PGA-certified golfer and instructor, and I thoroughly researched and evaluated these irons. Then an editor reviewed and fact-checked the review. Finally, we conduct regular content audits to update and revise our reviews to ensure you receive the latest information.
When researching this review, I considered these criteria:
- Cost
- Forgiveness
- Speed
- Spin
- Feel
- Distance
- Accuracy
10 Best Irons For Beginners
1. Srixon ZX4 MK II Irons — Best Overall
Pros:
- Incredible consistency
- Powerful feel
- Ample stopping power
Cons:
- Could be intimidating for higher handicappers
In my quest for the best beginner irons for 2023, the Srixon ZX4 MK II irons emerged as a clear front-runner. Personally testing these irons, I was struck by their incredible consistency. The feel at impact was both powerful and solid, a testament to Srixon’s meticulous craftsmanship.
These irons delivered enviable distance, and their stopping power was truly notable, providing me with a degree of control that beginners will find extremely beneficial.
I particularly admired the revamped design, which managed to retain the power of a hybrid while presenting a more streamlined appearance. At address, the neat and tidy dimensions gave me a sense of confidence, an aspect beginners will appreciate. Yet, the lighter finish made the head appear larger against the grass, an optical illusion that might comfort newcomers to the sport.
Despite these impressive features, I did notice a potential obstacle for some beginners. The Srixon ZX4 MK II, with its advanced design and aesthetics, might appear a little daunting to higher handicappers. This could somewhat hinder initial confidence-building efforts for those still learning the ropes.
For those feeling somewhat intimidated, an excellent alternative is the Ping G430. While it lacks the aggressive power and sophisticated appearance of the Srixon ZX4 MK II, its forgiving nature and robust construction could ease the learning curve for beginners.
In summary, the Srixon ZX4 MK II irons offer a compelling blend of consistency, power, and style, making them a worthwhile investment for beginners in 2023. They truly embody the spirit of evolution in golf equipment design.
2. Ping G430 Irons — Best for Forgiveness
Pros:
- Notably longer than the G425
- Impressive stopping power
- Consistent even when off-center
- Better feel akin to a forged iron
Cons:
- The badge appearance could be divisive
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of testing the PING G430 Irons on the golf course. I was intrigued by the significant improvements over the G425 model, with the G430 claiming to be notably longer with impressive stopping power and exceptional consistency even off-center.
Upon trying these irons, I quickly realized that they lived up to their billing. The first thing that stood out was the exceptional distance I could achieve. Indeed, they were longer than the G425 irons I had previously tried, and their stopping power was just as impressive, offering great control on the greens.
Another highlight was the consistency, with shots straying far less from the center, making me look like a better player than I am.
The design changes, including a thinner face and a new PUR Flex badge, played a significant role in these improvements. The badge, comprised of 15 pieces that form seven flexible zones, was particularly instrumental in not restricting the face’s bending. Despite its somewhat divisive appearance, I found it genuinely enhanced the irons’ overall performance.
I must say, though, the feel of the G430 irons was remarkably closer to that of a forged iron. It felt shorter and lower in pitch than most of its competitors, providing a much-appreciated sense of control and predictability.
On the downside, I wasn’t completely won over by the appearance of the badge. It might be a minor issue for some, but aesthetics matter to many golfers. It’s something that could potentially divide opinions.
An alternative to the Ping G430 irons could be the Callaway Rogue Irons, which are known for their exceptional forgiveness and versatility, albeit with a slightly different feel and aesthetic appeal.
3. Cobra Golf 2022 LTDX — Best Budget Pick
Pros:
- Excellent stopping power
- High ball speed
- Integrated Arccos Smart Sensors
Cons:
- Sizeable profile behind the ball at address
I must say the design initially caught my attention. The floating steel bar, separated from the face and body, intrigued me. Suspended in lightweight polymer, it promises to encourage more face flex, something I was eager to experience.
On the course, I noticed the explosive ball speed these irons produced. Even low-face strikes resulted in impressive velocity, making it a standout feature. Furthermore, the enhanced spin rate in the mid and short irons made my approach shots stop quicker than I was used to, which I found particularly beneficial during my short game.
However, I did encounter a challenge. The lofts on the higher irons are rather strong, making them somewhat difficult to launch. This could be a significant hurdle for golfers with slower swing speeds. I appreciate a good challenge, but this one might be too much for some.
Moreover, I found the low spin and flat ball flight limiting regarding stopping power, especially on firmer greens. This, combined with the visibly sizeable profile behind the ball at address, might deter certain players.
Despite these drawbacks, the LTDX Iron Set offers excellent value for its price. I also found Cobra’s integration of Arccos Smart Sensors in the grips useful for tracking performance.
As for alternatives, the Titleist T400 hybrid-iron set is worth considering. While offering a similar performance profile, the T400s have more forgiving lofts, making them easier to launch. This option could be suitable for those struggling with the LTDX’s stronger lofts.
4. Callaway Paradym X Irons — Best for Explosiveness
Pros:
- Explosive feel
- Enhanced forgiveness
- Easy to launch
- High ball flight
Cons:
- While forgiving, there are more forgiving irons in this category
- Pricey
I believe that newbies, beginners, and even experienced high-handicappers will appreciate the many benefits of the Paradym X Irons.
First, these irons’ feel and response are crisp and explosive. The forged 455 face gives an exceptional touch of elegance and high performance. The face is further supported by a speed frame construction, making it part of a unique hollow-body design. This combination notably enhances the face flexion and ball speed. The dual tungsten weighting also optimizes launch conditions and significantly improves forgiveness.
The Paradym X irons stood out with their terrific looks and superb feel. I particularly enjoyed the high ball flight it offered. The experience was enhanced by the pre-worn leading edge that sits closer to the ground, which makes the club better slice through the turf in firmer conditions. This gave me a sense of confidence and assured performance on the course.
On the flip side, these irons are quite pricey, a con that can’t be ignored. For high handicappers looking for a less expensive alternative, the TaylorMade Stealth Irons are a viable option. They also deliver excellent performance, albeit with a slightly different feel and look.
To sum it up, the Callaway Paradym X Irons can be deemed as the more accessible model in the Paradym line of irons. With a thicker, more confidence-inspiring profile, high level of forgiveness, great distance, and impressive customer ratings, they can certainly be relied upon for consistent game-improvement performance.
5. Callaway Big Bertha 23 Iron Set — Best for Distance
Pros:
- High ball speeds and a strong ball flight
- Inspires confidence
- Easy to launch
- Inlcudes hybrids
Cons:
- Offset might be visually distracting
After spending some time with the Callaway Big Bertha B31 Irons, I was genuinely impressed with their performance to the green. The irons were aesthetically pleasing and functionally robust, providing a unique combination of technology and craftsmanship that makes them stand out.
The first thing I noticed was their inviting look. Designed using Artificial Intelligence, the Big Bertha B23 irons have a generous offset, wide soles, and a thick top line which instilled me with a sense of confidence even before I made my swing.
As I connected with the ball, the flash face technology came to life, resulting in high ball speeds and a strong ball flight. The distinct feel off the face pleased the senses, making each strike a fulfilling experience.
My swings generated a strong, towering, and draw-biased trajectory that maintained consistency from various strike locations. The tungsten toe weighting and Callaway’s urethane microspheres worked harmoniously to provide extra forgiveness, making these irons and hybrids an excellent choice for high-handicap golfers and beginners struggling with launch and strike.
However, the substantial offset was a bit of a double-edged sword. While it enhanced the overall performance, the visual appeal was a bit compromised. The offset might be a bit off-putting for some golfers at address.
The 360 Cup Face is thin with plenty of flex. This results in a high Coefficient of Restitution (COR), a physics term that simply means you can expect good distance.
Given the minor drawback, I’d suggest an alternative for those put off by the offset – the TaylorMade Mavrik Max irons. Although they have a similar target market, the Mavrik Max irons offer a less pronounced offset while not compromising on performance.
6. Cobra Aerojet Irons — Best for Slow Swing Speed
Pros:
- Exceptionally long
- Compact shaping
- High forgiveness
- Consistent carry distance
- Aesthetic design
- Good turf interaction
Cons:
- Lower ball flight
- Potential gapping issues
Having played with the Cobra Aerojet irons, I can confidently say they are some of the longest ones available today. Ideal for those of us seeking extra yardage, they also come packed with forgiveness for those off-center strikes, thanks to their compact head design within the game improvement category.
One aspect that truly caught my eye was the high and square toe, more noticeable in the long irons, which presents an alternative shape to the traditional irons. Another attractive feature is the shorter toe to heel blade length with minimal offset, making these irons aesthetically pleasing and effective.
One of the stand-out features of the Aerojet irons is Cobra’s PWR-bridge weighting. This mechanism, which involves a floating weight in the club head, allows for an impressive 30% more face flexion, translating into substantial carry distance. With my 5-iron, I achieved an average carry of 184.8 yards, a stark increase from my usual 174 yards. Furthermore, this didn’t compromise my shot’s dispersion, resulting in tight dispersion and remarkably consistent strikes.
While the Aerojet irons deliver on distance, they are less workable than other models. However, they make up for this with the HOT face technology – an AI-designed variable thickness pattern on the back of the club face that helps maintain efficient ball speed and spin.
The only con? The slightly lower-than-ideal ball flight. But, when I took them out on the golf course, it didn’t really pose a problem. In fact, they were quite controllable and stopped quickly on the green.
One alternative to consider might be the TaylorMade P790 irons, known for their balance of workability and forgiveness. However, the Cobra Aerojet irons, priced at £689, stand out for their carry distance and forgiveness, making them a formidable contender in the game-improvement category. Overall, I’d say they are worth every penny for anyone looking to step up their game.
7. Mizuno Golf Men’s JPX921 Hot Metal Iron Set — Best for High Launch
Pros:
- Ideal for high launch
- Great distance and accuracy
- Chromoly 4140M construction for increased ball speed
- Stable and forgiving
- Sleek and attractive design
Cons:
- Might be slightly pricey for beginners
- Not ideal for players with fast swing speeds
In my personal golf journey, I’ve had the pleasure of testing various iron sets. Still, the Mizuno JPX921 Hot Metal irons stand out for their amazing ability to enable a high launch. Imagine walking onto the golf course for the first time, feeling that anxious rush of anticipation, and then nailing that high-launch shot! That’s what these Mizuno irons can do for a beginner.
Crafted from Chromoly 4140M, a revolutionary material that is both light and robust, these irons promise durability and provide an impressive ball speed. You feel this the moment the clubface makes contact with the ball, and an almost musical sound echoes, a satisfying confirmation of a good strike.
I appreciated the stability frame of these irons, with its thoughtful toe bias weighting. This aspect really highlights Mizuno’s commitment to providing forgiveness in their clubs, allowing beginners to make effective shots even when they don’t hit the sweet spot perfectly. I remember a few instances where my shot was a little off-center, but thanks to this stability frame, the outcome was much better than I expected.
One thing I must mention is the seamless cup face design. This seemingly subtle feature contributes a surprising amount to the overall distance achieved and certainly adds to the launch. Every time I took a swing with these irons, I couldn’t help but marvel at the technology that went into creating them.
Aesthetically, these irons are sleek and beautifully crafted. They make a statement and will have fellow golfers glancing your way with subtle admiration. A bit pricey, but when you’re committed to improving your golf game and want to invest in a set that truly delivers, the Mizuno JPX921 Hot Metal Irons are worth every penny.
8. Ping G425 Iron Set — Best for Consistency
Pros:
- Highly forgiving and easy to hit
- Offers consistent distance and ball flight
- Hydropearl Chrome finish reduces friction
- Advanced perimeter weighting for improved balance
- Visually appealing
Cons:
- Some players may find them too large
As soon as I handled the Ping G425 Irons, I immediately had a hunch that they were engineered with a clear focus on consistency. And my subsequent experiences only reaffirmed this notion.
These irons boast an ease of use that really grabbed my attention. Their expanded flexing zone and cascading sole design coalesce beautifully to augment face flexing. From a beginner’s perspective, this is a boon as it encourages greater ball speeds, which, in turn, facilitate longer and straighter shots.
A characteristic that struck me as a testament to Ping’s forward-thinking was the sophisticated perimeter weighting. This approach yields a high moment of inertia, thereby providing excellent balance. This kind of equilibrium can dramatically improve a novice golfer’s accuracy and consistency.
However, what sets these irons apart from other beginner irons is the Hydropearl Chrome finish. It’s not merely about looks, even though they certainly turn heads with their sleek and polished aesthetic.
The unique finish reduces friction with the turf, ensuring a smoother impact and enhanced launch. Having used these irons extensively, I can vouch for the remarkable difference this makes.
One aspect that some golfers could perceive as a drawback is the relatively larger size of these irons. But, from my perspective, this could be a blessing in disguise for beginners due to the broader sweet spot it offers. That being said, some golfers might find the size intimidating and opt for something more compact like the Taylormade SIM Max Irons.
Although the initial investment in the Ping G425 Iron Set might seem significant, in my view, it’s a worthwhile expenditure. Especially for beginners dedicated to honing a consistent and robust game.
9. Callaway Rogue ST Max OS Lite Irons — Best For Stopping Power
Pros:
- Easy to swing fast
- Consistent off-center
- Ample stopping power
Cons:
- Lots of offset
I eagerly anticipated the hands-on experience with the Callaway Rogue ST Max OS Lite irons. The first impression was that these clubs were meticulously engineered with wide soles, enhanced offset, and a thicker topline, making them seem quite forgiving and confidence-inspiring.
When I first held them, the lightweight nature of the irons was immediately apparent. Callaway had achieved this by using lighter shafts and swing weights in their design, something I appreciate from a golf physics perspective.
During my testing, I was genuinely impressed with the precision tungsten weighting, which amounts to 46g of high-density tungsten, a 188 percent increase over the previous Mavrik series.
This detail aids in better launch conditions and enhances speed across the face. Even my off-center strikes resulted in a consistent and reliable ball flight, likely due to Callaway’s patented urethane microspheres being pushed further up the face in these irons.
However, I did encounter a slight hiccup. While beneficial for certain swing types, the extensive offset in these irons took some getting used to from a visual standpoint at address. It’s a detail that might put off some players.
Considering alternatives, I’d recommend the TaylorMade SIM Max irons for offset-conscious people who still want a similar performance. These irons deliver a sleek look at address with less offset while maintaining a forgiving nature and high ball speed.
In a nutshell, the Callaway Rogue ST Max OS Lite irons bring a scientifically backed design and game-enhancing technology to the table. They may take some time to adjust visually, but the performance speaks for itself, particularly for those seeking a confidence boost on off-center strikes.
10. TaylorMade Golf P790 Men’s Iron Set — Best For Feel
Pros:
- Highly versatile
- Good balance of forgiveness and playability
- Great feel
- Responsive feedback
- Decent distance
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than most beginner iron sets
- The top line is relatively thin, which might reduce a beginner’s confidence at address
After an extensive testing period with the TaylorMade P790 irons, I can vouch for their suitability for serious beginners ready to invest in quality golf equipment. As an expert golfer, I was impressed by how well these irons balanced forgiveness and workability, a combination seldom found in game-improvement irons.
During my sessions on the range, I discovered that the secret to the P790’s success is in their design – a hollow cavity coupled with a SpeedFoam insert. This unique combination supports the thin face of the irons, which in turn delivers significant distance.
I observed the sizeable clubheads, which feature TaylorMade’s renowned SpeedPocket slots prominently. Interestingly, the tungsten screws on the face of the 3 to 7 irons are tactically positioned to optimize weight distribution, which I felt amplified the moment of inertia (MOI) and reduced twisting on impact.
The result is one of the best beginner iron set that delivers forgiveness, distance, a pleasant feel, and workability when needed.
The P790 irons truly stood out to me in multiple aspects, including their forgiveness, distance, pleasant feel, and the workability they offer as you refine your shot-shaping skills. I also appreciated the wide array of available shaft and configuration options, which can be customized based on individual skills, swing speed, and style.
However, I must point out a drawback that some beginners might face – the thin topline. While it didn’t bother me personally, I can see how less experienced players might find it less confidence-inspiring compared to other options with bulkier designs.
While the P790s are undoubtedly superb irons, they might not be the perfect fit for absolute beginners who play sporadically. In that case, I’d recommend considering alternatives like the Callaway Big Bertha B23 Irons, which offer superb forgiveness, distance and cater more to novice players.
What To Look For When Selecting An Iron Set
Too many beginner golfers focus on drivers, putters, and perhaps wedges. While all the golf clubs in your bag are important and add value to your game, your irons are generally your most effective weapons.
The best golf irons for beginners will save you more shots on the average round than any of your other golf clubs. With this in mind, you need to choose wisely.
Your choice of game improvement irons is critical, particularly for a beginner. There are many options with a bewildering range of features and benefits.
No two golfers, even beginners, are alike. Finding the right set for you and your style is critical.
Strengths and weaknesses, personal style, swing speed, and a multitude of other factors need to be considered.
Not all beginners are the same, so some will want a set they can evolve with them, while others will want something that helps immediately. Either way, there are a number of great options.
You obviously do not want to purchase a set of irons designed for advanced players, as these will make your game frustrating and difficult.
You also do not want to invest in a set you will grow out of too quickly. Most quality irons will last many years, so if you have a grasp of the basics, it probably pays to invest in a set that you can grow into to an extent.
The technology, choices, and multiple options can be a bit overwhelming. This is a major challenge to beginners and high-handicap golfers.
Here are a few important factors to consider when starting out and selecting a decent set of irons:
Shaft Choice
The two main factors here are the shaft material as well as the flex.
With regards to materials, graphite shafts are more expensive but are much lighter. The weight often suits beginners with a slower swing speed. They tend to be softer, a bit easier to swing, and are more flexible.
Steel shafts are more economical and give good feedback. They will let you know where and how you struck the ball. If you have a reasonable swing speed or a tight budget, then there is nothing wrong with a steel shaft.
Find the weight and flex that works best with your swing speed and style within your budget.
Also, consider the length of the shaft. It is important that it is in relation to your height.
This video will explain club length in some detail:
Hybrids. Yes or No?
This is a question many players, particularly beginners ask. There is no definitive answer, and a lot will depend on your golfing style and preference.
The truth is many new golfers struggle with longer irons, and hybrids are often a viable option. While the hybrids inspire greater confidence and are worth considering in certain circumstances, discipline yourself to learn to value the slightly longer irons.
Some sets do offer you a combination set with hybrids in place of longer irons. If you have difficulty with your long irons, then this might be a good choice. Preferably, give yourself some time to understand both options.
Cavity Back or Muscle Irons?
The general consensus is that beginners should always go for cavity back irons, but one often forgets that many beginners develop quickly.
While cavity backs are certainly easier to start with and more forgiving, you might soon regret the lack of shot-shaping ability versus the playability and control blades offer.
Again, balance your choice with your skills and ability. If you are an absolute beginner, stick to the cavity back irons.
Remember that many modern irons have a blade look with the feel and forgiveness of a cavity back iron.
Club Head
The head’s design, technology, build, material, and weighting are critical to your enjoyment and success with the irons. A larger head size will inspire confidence and offer more forgiveness.
Forgiveness
Speaking of forgiveness, a beginner wants as much as possible. The position of the center of gravity (COG) is all-important.
The weighting’s placement, balance, and precision can make all the difference to forgiveness. A low COG also aids with launch, another challenge many beginners face.
The sole and size of the sweet spot are also important factors.
Budget
It is always important to consider your budget. We will present a wide range of options, from the real value for money sets to more expensive sets.
Remember, a set of irons can last many years, so consider this when selecting.
FAQs
What Is The Best Iron Number For A Beginner Golfer?
The best iron number for a beginner golfer usually ranges from 7 to 9. As beginners are still developing their swing mechanics and accuracy, these irons, with their higher lofts, can be more forgiving.
A higher lofted club such as a 7, 8, or 9 iron helps beginners get the ball airborne more effortlessly, contributing to successful shots and building confidence.
Moreover, these clubs are less likely to veer dramatically off course if the strike isn't perfect. Gradually, as golfers improve their technique, they can start incorporating lower-numbered irons into their game.
Should Beginners Use Blade Irons?
No, generally, beginners are advised against using blade irons. While offering better feel and control, these clubs are less forgiving than their cavity-back counterparts, making them more suitable for low-handicap and professional players.
Blade irons demand a higher skill level, requiring precise ball striking for optimal performance. Cavity-back irons, on the other hand, provide a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness on mishits.
This makes cavity-backs a more suitable choice for those just starting out in golf, helping them to develop consistent swings while reducing the effect of inaccuracies.
Conclusion
I tried to have this review cover a range of budgets and offer sets suited to absolute beginners as well as those starting out but with a bit of experience and reasonable swing. I know you must be wondering now.
Which iron is the best for beginners? Through my own testing, the set that stands out as the clear winner has to be the Srixon ZX4 MK II Irons
While they are a fair investment, they do everything the beginner wants and needs from a set of irons. I was quite astonished to see that the technology is exceptional and the result of a massive investment in research and development and years of fine-tuning.
While their main claim to fame is the exceptional distance they deliver, they are also super easy to launch and highly forgiving. I’d say that if you are a serious beginner, however, then you can’t go wrong investing in either the Cobra Golf 2022 LTDX orthe Ping G430 irons, which have to be the best beginner golf irons.
Other Articles You May Like
- Common Beginner Golf Problems
- How To Lower Your Handicap
- Most Forgiving Golf Irons
Clint is PGA-certified and was a Head Teaching Professional at one of Toronto's busiest golf academies. He was also featured on Canada's National Golf TV program, "Score Golf Canada," twice. He graduated with a degree in Golf Management from the College of the Desert in California and studied under Callaway's co-founder, Tony Manzoni.
He has a handicap index of 6.2 and spends the winters near Oaxaca, Mexico, where he plays twice a month at the Club de Golf Vista Hermosa. He's written over 100 articles at GolfSpan since 2021. You can connect with Clint at LinkedIn, FB, his website, or Clintcpga@gmail.com.
- Best score: 68
- Favorite club: Odyssey White Hot Two-Ball Center-Shafted Putter
- Favorite ball: Titleist Pro V1x
- Favorite food at the turn: Hot dog
