When Callaway made such a splash with the X-Hot driver, fairway woods and hybrids, there skepticism of how well the irons that carried the same name would perform. Judging from the success – and playability – of the X-Hot and X-Hot irons, I dare say they got it right. I have only had the opportunity to hit a few of the X-Hot irons, so I will leave that discussion for another time.
I was quite impressed the X-Hot Pro irons. The new Pro series irons have been completely re-engineered. These stainless steel beauties take distance to a whole new limit with three dynamic new features: face technology, feel management technology and a newly designed grooves. Plus, the Callaway X Hot Pro irons have a more metallic look that better players prefer. They are lighter than last year’s RAZR X Tour with stronger lofts and more offset.
Here’s a breakdown on the three new features I was talking about. First off, Callaway’s J-Face Dynamic Technology combines precise control of face thickness and undercut depth for a blend of power and solid feel that better players demand. If you look closely at the cavity of the club, you’ll notice that the undercut near the topline has been removed. The cavity extends up behind where it says “PRO” on the club, forming a “J” with the face of the club. According to Callaway, this new face technology allows for “pro performance distance, feel and workability that better players demand.” They are a very forgiving iron. Long too.
Feel Management Technology is hidden in and behind the X Hot and Callaway logos in the cavity of the club. Callaway uses dual material medallions in order to fine tune the sound of the club. Considering nearly all of what better players interpret as feel is the sound that the club makes at impact, The X-Hot Pro irons produce a crisp feel.
Lastly and equally important, Callaway has developed 24° Closed Space V Grooves – the most precise grooves Callaway has ever put in an iron of this type. The grooves on the X Hot Pro are spaced closer together to enhance spin.
The satin finished face of the irons is framed by shiny chrome, producing a two-tone effect that is very appealing to the eye. The X-Hot Pro irons have the right combination of topline, blade height; it is a very playable players’ iron. A progressive width sole allows each iron to cut through almost anything or sweep the ball off of tight fairway lies.
THE Project X flighted steel shafts are a nice touch and contribute to the overall lighter weight of the club. This helps develop more speed and control on all irons shots. The long irons are a few degrees stronger than most comparable iron sets which contributes to the fact that I was getting better distance. On average I gained 8 – 10 yards in distance on the longer irons (3, 4 and 5). From the 6 – 9 irons I gained 5 yards or so and there was no discernable difference with the pitching wedge.
A standard set of X-Hot Pro irons includes 3 thru PW and they are available for both left and right handers. They come fitted with Project X 95 Flighted steel shafts (available in 5.5 and 6.0) and a Lamkin Black grip. A 50° approach wedge is also available. You can’t go wrong sticking a set of these irons in your bag. Not only will you gain distance and playability, you’ll create a sense of shock from your regular playing partners. Choosing these irons is not something you will soon regret.
These irons can be purchased at most major golf retailers, both online and brick and mortar. A complete set will set you back between $500 and $600. For more information on the new Callaway X-Hot Pro irons, please visit their website at www.callawaygolf.com/global/en-us/golf-equipment/golf-clubs/irons/x-hot-pro-irons.html.
