IRT-5 Hybrid
Featured on a Golf Channel ad, this club solves some problems for the average golfer, regardless of age or gender. Because of its heavier weight, the club stays more stable through impact thus reducing the chances of a slice (this extra weight may take some getting used to but it really helps the clubhead square up at impact). I find it produces a high, straight trajectory on almost every shot I’ve taken, on the range and on the course. That has created increased club confidence and, with my now lower clubhead speed due to a long term illness, this hybrid has become my go-to club for many on-course situations. With a loft of 24 degrees (the same as a 4 hybrid), I get about 150 yards distance, depending on the lie (you may get more yardage since I lost considerable distance due to my illness. Before my illness, I was getting about 175-180 from this club.).
From the rough, it has these very serviceable “machete rails” on the sole which help cut through any resistance from the turf. Essentially, they reduce friction, thus helping to increase swing speed. So the club does a lot of your work as long as you make good contact. From the fairway, the club performs even better. Because it’s shorter than most hybrids of the same loft, you stand closer to the ball. That encourages the more down-and-through swing of an iron, increasing trajectory and consistency. The machete rails look kind of gimmicky but they really work in your favor–overall, a good design feature.
The IRT-5 is a versatile club, good for good lies but also good for deep rough, mud, and even fairway bunkers. The heavier clubhead helps stabilize the club through any obstacles. Its low center of gravity helps this heavier club to pull through impact. You just need to swing it with good pace and rhythm. Give it a try. I recommend it. You can check it out at IRT-5.
Disclosure: This club was sent to me by the manufacturer for review. But I was under no obligation to review it favorably, nor do I receive any compensation if you purchase one.