Golfers of all ability levels have been using hybrid clubs more and more in recent years, but there is still quite a bit of confusion surrounding this club type.
If you’re thinking about adding a hybrid to your bag, the tips below might come in handy as you sound out your choice.
Here we’ll cover everything you need to know about hybrids. We will take you through what they are and when to use them, and touch on the different types available. Finally, we give you some pointers on how to pick the club that will take your game to the next level.
What is a hybrid golf club?
In contrast to conventional long irons, hybrid golf clubs combine the power and distance of a fairway wood with the precision and control of an iron.
In addition, hybrids offer greater forgiveness than long irons when striking the ball.
When confronted with a difficult lie, hybrid golf clubs make it much simpler to get the ball airborne since they have a higher degree of loft than your fairway woods.
Hybrids are incredibly adaptable clubs that can be utilised in a variety of circumstances on the course since they contain the best features of both long irons and fairway woods.
It is this versatility driving their increasing popularity.
What are the different types of hybrid?
Much the same as fairway woods and irons, the different types of hybrid golf clubs are numbered with a similar rationale behind the progression.
The numbers usually range from 3-7 and correspond to the different shaft lengths and loft angles of the club.
Although a hybrid may share the same number as another club in your bag, you will likely not hit both the same distance due to the different characteristics of the clubs.
For example, a player might hit their 5 iron 170 yards, then strike a 5 hybrid 190 yards, and a 5 wood 225 yards.
Understanding the lofts of hybrid clubs is key to making an informed decision when adding one or more to your bag.
|
CLUB |
LOFT |
LOFT EQUIVALENT CLUBS |
|---|---|---|
|
3 HYBRID |
17°- 20° |
3 IRON 5 WOOD HEAVENWOOD |
|
4 HYBRID |
21°- 23° |
4 IRON 7 WOOD |
|
5 HYBRID |
24°- 26° |
5 IRON 9 WOOD |
|
6 HYBRID |
27°- 29° |
6 IRON 11 WOOD |
|
7 HYBRID |
30°- 32° |
7 IRON |
Choosing the right club
Whether you’re using the club to tee off, punching out or attacking the green out of the rough, hybrids can be the club of choice for several positions on the course.
However, before picking up a hybrid you should have a good idea of the distance gaps between the clubs currently in your bag. You should always consider your skill level, power and accuracy when purchasing a new club. A reputable fitter can also help you choose which loft and shaft flex will best suit your swing speed and playstyle.
