tour pro 4 iron distance

How Far PGA Tour Players Hit Every Club In The Bag

The latest Trackman data has revealed the average distances and speeds from shots hit on the PGA Tour

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In this age of ultra-long hitters and ever-increasing technology among the golf-equipment sector, the distances and speeds in the professional game continue to go one way - up.

It is not quite the same among the amateur population , however, with Arccos data via the USGA and R&A in March 2022 revealing that the average male golfer - with a handicap - hits their total drive around 215 yards , a number that has remained relatively consistent over the past five years. Meanwhile, in the women's game, the average total-driving distance for players of all abilities is just shy of 148 yards.

But the latest numbers released by Trackman show that PGA Tour professionals are sending it a long way past that, as you would expect. The average carry distance for a PGA Tour pro with a driver in hand during 2023 was 282 yards.

Their club speed was usually around 115mph with a driver and the resulting ball speed averages 171mph, reaching a max height of just 35 yards off the ground.

Despite a 33-yard drop-off between driver and 3-wood, in regard to carry, PGA Tour players are still averaging 249 yards carry with the latter and bettering the average distance your leading amateur can manage with the big dog.

Rory McIlroy is the longest average driver on the PGA Tour and is known for his high ball-flight

From 3-wood down, between 5-13 yards of carry was lost as you move through the bag. PGA Tour players typically hit a 5-wood 236 yards in 2023, while - surprisingly - the number dropped to just 231 with a hybrid.

The numbers between the two aforementioned clubs are particularly interesting to take a closer look at, with players generating 106mph club speed with a 5-wood and 102mph with a hybrid. The angle of attack was almost identical, and the smash factor for both clubs was exactly the same at 1.47 out of 1.5.

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Ball speed differed by 7mph (156mph - 5w/149mph Hy) but the spin rate difference was much more noticeable at 4322rpm for the 5-wood and 4587rpm for the hybrid. Ultimately, though, the total carry resulted in just a five yard drop off for the shorter club.

Moving into the irons, PGA Tour players averaged 218 yards carry with a 3-iron (100mph CHS/145mph BS) and 199 yards with a 5-iron (96mph CHS/135mph BS), and as the club becomes shorter - predictably - so do the numbers.

When looking at the 7-iron, the total carry distance on the PGA Tour was 176 yards thanks to 92mph club speed and 123mph ball speed. PGA Tour players struck their shortest club - the pitching wedge - around 142 yards (carry) in 2023, according to the Trackman data.

Updated PGA Tour Averages released by @TrackManGolf It’s been a while since they have released updated CHS, distances, AOA, launch angles etcBookmark for future reference and see how you compare 👊🏼 pic.twitter.com/iyySMw41xZ May 2, 2024

HOW FAR DO PGA TOUR PLAYERS HIT EVERY CLUB IN THE BAG?

Data: Trackman, 2024

Jonny Leighfield is our Staff News Writer who joined Golf Monthly just in time for the 2023 Solheim Cup and Ryder Cup. He graduated from the University of Brighton with a degree in Sport Journalism in 2017 and spent almost five years as the sole sports reporter at his local newspaper. An improving golfer who still classes himself as ‘one of the worst players on the Golf Monthly team’, Jonny enjoys playing as much as he can and is hoping to reach his Handicap goal of 18 at some stage. He attended both the 150th and 151st Opens and is keen to make it an annual pilgrimage.

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Golf Club Distance Charts By Age, Gender And Skill Level

Last Updated on January 9, 2024 by Matt Greene

How far should you hit the ball?

How do you compare to others?

It's always good to know that age, gender, and skillset are the biggest differentiators so you don't make unrealistic comparisons.

I did so much research on this article to bring you the most up to date information to help you quickly skim the tables and charts about golf distance.

My golf distance charts show the key elements that influence how far you can hit each golf club: 

• Swing speed
• Smash factor
• Quality and optimization of equipment

These factors are all heavily influenced by your physiology, skill, age and strength or flexibility levels. Very often, you can optimize each area, with some training or coaching or both.

Golf Club Distance Chart by Swing Speed

Swing speed is a major determining factor the golf club distances. It is not the only factor but if 100 people strike the ball the same, the fastest swings will carry the ball further.

• Most golfers are around 90 mph driver swing speed. 
• The average swing speed on the PGA Tour is around 114 mph. 
• 150 mph is the top range and only long drive competitors will be swinging toward this range.

NOTE: The swing speed at the top of each column is driver swing speed. We use this as a general gauge to estimate the distance of each club thereafter.

How do I swing the club faster?

You've compared yourself to the numbers in the chart but you want to hit it longer. Almost everyone does and there are 3 ways to swing the club faster:

• Get lessons on proper mechanics with a professional swing coach. They will utilize all your physiological elements and limitations to the maximum, as well as help you hit the ball in the center of the club face. You can add as much as 10 mph to your driver swing speed with correct technique.
• Get stronger and more mobile in the gym. Strength training plus mobility work with a trainer will increase your swing speed guaranteed. You will have a wider range of motion in your muscles and your strength will 100% translate into more speed. You can add 10-20mph to your swing depending on how advanced your strength and mobility currently is.
• Get lighter golf equipment fitted to your swing. Lighter shafts can help increase your swing speed 2-5 mph.

These are the only ways to improve swing speed but the MOST important factor is the coaching and practice so that you can HIT THE SWEET SPOT of the golf club. 

The center strike means you send as much energy into the ball as possible and we measure how well you hit the ball using the Smash Factor.

What is  Smash Factor ?

Smash Factor is ball speed divided by club speed.

For example: 150 mph ball speed / 100 mph swing speed = 1.50 Smash Factor

The number calculated gives a ratio to show how much energy is moved from the club head to the golf ball at impact.

Low Smash Factor numbers mean less energy is transferred, while higher Smash Factor numbers mean you send more energy from your golf club into the golf ball.

The optimum Smash Factor number for excellent ball striking with the driver is 1.50 Smash Factor.

Ideal Smash Factor for every club

The PGA Tour golfers are the best in the world so we can use their averages to assume the best smash factors in the world. If you can attain these smash factor numbers as stated by Trackman , you are striking the ball as good as you possibly can.

Note how the smash factor decreases as the loft increases.

Skill level affects smash factor 

Distance is affected by the swing speed but MAINLY the quality of the strike related to that swing speed.

In other words, how close to the center of the club face you hit the ball will determine how your swing speed power is transferred into the golf ball.

If you employ a swing coach, they will assist you in hitting the ball in the middle of the face, or closer to the middle.

That will take your existing swing speed and optimize it by being more efficient with where you hit the ball on the club. 

The measurement we use for the quality of your strike is called Smash Factor.

Equipment affects swing speed and smash factor

The pros on tour have optimized equipment to their specific technique and skill level as well as body shape and strength.

The same swing speed in a PGA Tour pro will send the ball much further than an amateur golfer of higher handicap who has a similar swing speed.

The PGA Tour players technique is perfect so if you and a Tour pro hit the ball the same, the pro would still hit the ball further because their equipment has been customized to their exact swing.  

A fitting can help to optimize your strength and swing for more distance.

Average Golf Club Distance For Male Golfers By Skill Level

From 'Good Golfer' onward, the 2 iron down to 5 iron should improve as confidence and technique improve, thus bringing more swing speed. 

Beginner Golfer:  New to the game - first 6-12 months.

Average Golfer:  15-24 handicap .

Good Golfer:  6-14 handicap.

Excellent Golfer:  Below 6 handicap.

Swing speed charts by age and gender

Swing speed is a vital factor in determining the distance you hit the ball.

The swing speed, with a strike near the middle of the club face makes the ball go further.

A poor strike with high swing speed will go less distance. 

A pro golfer swinging at the same speed as an amateur gets wildly different distance numbers because they hit the ball in the center of the face often. 

Therefore, if you want to improve your distance with the same swing speed, you can work on improving your strike closer to the middle of the face.

Average swing speed by age and gender chart

In this chart we show the 50th percentile driver swing speed for each gender and age range according to the research done by TPI .

Driver Swing Speed Chart by Golf Skill Level

Confidence and skill make a big difference when hitting the driver efficiently and out the sweet spot.

Beginners with a driver  will be more tentative and have less effective mechanics.

Mid handicappers will be more adept at the driver  because of experience or lessons.

Advanced golfers swing with confidence from hitting a lot of golf balls and taking lessons with a pro.

PGA Tour golfers have optimized every aspect of the game with the driver and are the very tip of the spear. 

Is a 250 yard drive good?

Yes it is very good.  According to Arccos  and Shotscope , between 15% and 31% of golfers hit 250 yards or more.

Here is a video of me breaking it down.

Ball Speed To Club Head Speed Chart for Driver

The ball speed off the driver face is dependent on the strike.

If your strike or Smash Factor is good, you will hit the ball further with your swing speed than the same speed with a bad strike.

Below, we take the club head speed and use a Smash Factor of around 1.42 which is 0.08 away from a perfect strike.

What swing speed hits 250 yard drives?

A swing speed of around 105 mph with the driver, and ball speed of around 150 mph  will produce a 250 yard drive.

Ball Speed To Club Head Speed for 7 iron

A 7 iron optimal smash factor is 1.33. That is the PGA Tour average.  Remember for the driver it is 1.50

The ball speed off the 7 iron is determined by the swing speed and smash factor.

As the clubs get shorter, the ideal smash factor actually changes.

What distance will you get from a 7 iron at every speed of swing?

What swing speed hits the 7 iron 150 yards?

A swing speed of around 76 mph with the 7 iron, ball speed of around 105 mph and dynamic loft of 21°  will produce a 150 yard carry shot.

Golf Club Distance Charts Other Important Factors

Every club has a different loft and more loft goes less distance, while less loft goes longer distance in combination with longer golf shafts. 

Driver usually goes furthest while the lob wedge around 60 degrees goes the shortest. 

The golf clubs of today go a lot further since the manufacturers started creating cavity back golf clubs in combination with lower lofts for the same clubs. 

Every club is between 2 and 5 degrees lower in loft in the current day, which automatically increases distance by up to 15 yards per iron compared to prior times. Driver lofts cannot get much lower as people will not be able to hit them. In order to hit a driver with a loft below 9 degrees, your swing speed needs to be incredibly fast. 

An important factor to note for slower swing speeds, is that a higher lofted fairway wood or higher lofted driver can actually GAIN you distance because low lofted clubs are harder to launch at slower swings. Most golfers should be playing fairway woods with a loft that does not go below 16 or 17 degrees . 

The club heads are bigger for all golf clubs in modern times with much larger sweet spots. With the addition of lighter shafts in both the irons and the woods, the ball speeds and swing speeds are higher as well. Check out our article on the flex of shafts in the current game. 

Golf Club Distance Charts of PGA Tour Golfers

Why are modern golfers longer than prior generations, physical fitness.

Most modern pros are in the gym multiple times per week and in the physio offices often. In prior generations during the Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus days, the pros were regular people who even used to enjoy a smoke and a drink on the course. 

Bryson Dechambeau is an example of someone who bulked up in order to hit it further and it made a big difference. The side effects of that can be disputed as he has slimmed down again.

Tiger Woods was one of the first modern day pros to begin working in the gym. His huge transformation to a big, strong guy inspired a whole new generation of golfers and now most up and coming pros are hitting the ball longer than even this generation of pros.

Club advancements

Lofts have changed and the lower lofts in irons will change how far the ball appears to go with the same 'number' iron.

A 7 iron from the 80s may have had 40° of loft while a current 7 iron can have as low as 28° of loft. That 12 degree difference makes a 20-30 yard difference in distance. 

The other important factor especially with the woods and drivers, is the materials of the clubs. The drivers now are lightweight titanium and carbon, with graphite shafts, optimized for huge distance.

That alone makes an astonishing difference when we compare to the old persimmon wooden clubs and heavy steel shafts.

The golf ball changed a lot with the release of the Pro V1. Golf balls just went further than ever before. 

They spin less, they go straighter and they have advanced to a point that the ruling authorities of golf want to make them go shorter to preserve the golf courses.

If the pros hit the ball too long, they need to extend the golf courses, and there is a lkmited amount fo land available. 

The balata golf ball is significantly shorter than the current urethane covered solid core golf balls they use today on the Tour. 

You can compare how you shape up against the average golfer, the senior golfer, the pro golfer and the advanced golfer. 

The key though is to understand your own game and your distances so you can more effectively plan your game and piece together a good golf score. When you fully understand and accept your distances that you hit the golf ball, you will score better.

For the pros and the advanced players, the distance they hit each club is not a matter of ego. It's a matter of 'which club gets the job done?' and they use that.

You can too, whichever distance you hit it.

GOLF CLUB DISTANCES: PGA Tour and LPGA Tour pros vs Men and Women

How much further do PGA Tour and LPGA Tour pros hit the ball compared to us amateur golfers? The average distances might surprise you. 

Ever wondered how much further a PGA Tour and LPGA Tour pro hits the ball compared to male and female amateur golfer? Well you will want to check out the latest shot data below, which higlights the average distance for each club in the bag. 

The following average distances for men and women and PGA Tour and LPGA Tour pros have been calcuated by The Golf Mentor , and they measured in yards.

AVERAGE DISTANCES FOR MEN

The three different yardages provided for each club below are based on the averages for short hitters, mid hitters and longer hitters.

DRIVER:  200, 230, 260  3-WOOD: 180, 215, 235 5-WOOD: 170, 195, 210 3-IRON: 160, 180, 200 4-IRON: 150, 170, 180 5-IRON: 140, 160, 170 6-IRON: 130, 150, 160 7-IRON: 120, 140, 150 8-IRON: 110, 130, 140 9-IRON: 95, 115, 130 PW: 80, 105, 120

AVERAGE DISTANCES FOR PGA TOUR PLAYERS

DRIVER:  289-323 3-WOOD: 243-304 5-WOOD: 230-288 3-IRON: 212-265 4-IRON: 203-254 5-IRON: 194-243 6-IRON: 183-229 7-IRON: 172-215 8-IRON: 160-200 9-IRON: 148-185 PW: 80, 105, 120

AVERAGE DISTANCES FOR WOMEN

DRIVER:  150, 175, 200 3-WOOD:  125, 150, 180 5-WOOD: 115, 135, 170 3-IRON: 100, 125, 160 4-IRON: 90, 120, 150 5-IRON: 80, 110, 140 6-IRON: 70, 100, 130 7-IRON: 65, 90, 120 8-IRON: 60, 80, 110 9-IRON: 55, 70, 95 PW: 50, 60, 80

AVERAGE DISTANCES FOR LPGA TOUR PLAYERS

DRIVER:  246-258 3-WOOD:  195-217  5-WOOD: 185-205 3-IRON: 180-192 4-IRON: 170-181 5-IRON: 161-173 6-IRON: 152-163 7-IRON: 141-154 8-IRON: 130-143 9-IRON: 119-132 PW: 107-121

How far do you hit the golf ball with each of your clubs? Are you above or below the averages highlighted above? Share your thoughts and comments over on our social media platforms - Facebook, Instagram and Twitter - or come and visit our GolfMagic YouTube Channel. 

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Golf Club Distance Chart

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This golf club distance chart will help provide you with a guide to how far you should hit your golf clubs. You’ll also be able to tell what level you’re at compared to the pros and how increasing your swing speed will impact your yardage.

Table of Contents

Golf Club Distance Chart by Swing Speed

This table from Trackman shows the average distance for golf clubs based on the swing speed of a driver. Of course, your distances will vary based on how well you’re striking the ball, but this cheat sheet should give you a good idea of how far you can expect your clubs to go when hit well.

Note that these are carry numbers. So you might expect from 0-10 yards of extra distance depending on the club, how it’s struck, and where it lands.

Printable Golf Club Distance Chart

If you’d like to print this chart out, click on the image below or download this golf club distance chart pdf .

Average Swing Speed by Player Type

Here are the average swing speeds by type of player. These numbers vary widely, especially among amateurs, but they can give you an idea of where you stand among your peers.

Average Swing Speed by Handicap

The distance you can hit your clubs directly correlates with your potential handicap. Of course, your actual handicap number will vary based on all the factors of your game, but these are the expected averages for males and females.

Average Driver Distance by Age

The table below shows the average driving distance by age. Your actual numbers will vary based on your fitness and skill. As people age, they tend to lose fast twitch muscle fiber and flexibility unless they’re actively working to maintain them.

How to Find Your Driver Swing Speed

There are several ways to find your swing speed to place yourself on this chart.

The simplest way is to get the yardage for one of your clubs, such as the driver, and match that yardage to the chart. You should find one of the columns closely matches your yardages. Ensure you’re tracking average yardage and not your best drive to get accurate numbers.

Here are several other ways:

• Use a golf simulator to get an accurate swing speed number. A device like a Trackman or a Skytrak should be able to provide you with this data. If you don’t have a simulator, you may be able to find somewhere nearby where you can rent time in a simulator bay.
• Use a launch monitor like the PRGR (around $200), which accurately measures speed.

How to Make Your Own Club Distance Card

To make your own club distance card, you’ll need to start by measuring each club’s carry and/or total distance. There are several ways to get this data:

• A golf simulator (you can rent simulator time if you don’t have access)
• A launch monitor (such as the PRGR mentioned above)
• A golf tracker (such as the Arccos Caddie )
• A range finder and some time at the driving range (this approach is less precise and takes extra effort)

Choose which data is most helpful. For example, carry distances are useful for hitting a green or ensuring you can get over trouble, and the total distance helps you know your range. You can also track distances for partial swings (like a 1/4, 1/2, or 3/4 wedge).

After you’ve gathered all the numbers, there are several ways you can use them to make your club choices easier on the course:

• Paper – the most basic way is to write them down on some note paper; you can use the templates below for an idea of what to write down.
• Phone – you can save these numbers as a note or document for reference if your phone is easily accessible during your golf round. Apps like the Arccos Caddie (mentioned above) will also track this for you.
• Print Out – we’ve included some sample templates below to give you ideas on how to design a card.

Once you have your distance card, you can laminate and carry it, put it in a scorecard holder, attach it to your bag with a bag tag holder , or tape it to your push cart.

You should expect to hit a 7-iron between 130 and 160 yards. Each iron should vary by about 8 to 10 yards (e.g., if your 7 goes 150, your 8 should go around 140). This will change depending on your swing speed, which is related to your technique, flexibility, fitness, and height.

An average male swings the driver at 94 mph, traveling around 240 yards. However, most amateurs don’t hit the ball perfectly, so this will often fall short of this potential yardage when mishit. A PGA Tour player hits the driver an average of 295 yards (some are much longer, like DeChambeau at 320 yds). An LPGA player drives the ball around 240 yards in total.

In 2021 Kyle Berkshire hit a ball speed of 233.4 mph with a swing speed of 153.3 mph. His swing speeds have been slightly higher, but ball speed ultimately factors most into the distance.

• https://blog.trackmangolf.com/club-speed/
• https://blog.trackmangolf.com/trackman-average-tour-stats/

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Kyle J. Larson

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Same my info for the next time I comment.

JOHN T. HARTMANN

Last check, my golf swing speed has been around 98 to 100mph. So as a reference I hit my 7-Iron about 165yds on average, pitching wedge would be 130 to 140yds and driver 230 to 260yds depending upon contact and degree of flight. I can handle tee spots up to 6700 to 6800yds. However, my wife thinks I should “play-up” because my scores are “mid 90’s on challenging course, but my issues have always been the short game, not distance. What do you suggest?

Regarding John Hartmann’s comment….play the tees where you have the most fun. If all your buddies are playing from the same tees as you maybe you want to just keep playing those same tees with your friends. Most of us are just playing for fun. Play where you have the most fun but if I were you I’d at least give it a try moving up. 6800 yards is a lot of golf course for weekend golfers. Who knows, you might have more fun making lower scores from closer tees.

Yeah, play whichever tees you like, but like SS said 6800 is probably a lot if you’re not hitting a driver at least 260+… if you take a look at the par 3 distances, and shots you may have to hit into greens on a 2nd or third shot (after subtracting your avg driver distance) it’ll help you figure out what to play. I’m going to have a lot more fun hitting irons into a green and having some birdie chances then if I’m always trying to crank a fairway wood in and missing or having long putts.

I’m 80 years old and hit my driver pretty consistently 200-210. Since moving to the up tees I have had so much more fun. Now it’s driver and a medium iron rather than driver, fairway wood, pitching wedge. Having a chance to make some birdies makes all the difference in enjoyment for me.

Swing Speed and Distance Chart for Every Club

Find out exactly where your swings speeds with each club stack up

• DESCRIPTION Golf driving range with distances measured
• SOURCE Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH
• PERMISSION Shutterstock license

The more data we collect about our golf games, and the games of the best players out there, the more we realize how important distance is. No matter what the club manufacturers tell you, the best way to increase your distance is to increase your club head speed. Here’s a club head speed chart that shows you swing speeds for every club from every type of player, from PGA and LPGA tour players, to high-handicap amateur men and women.

Whether you are embarking on a swing speed mission, or you’re simply seeking some context to see how your swing speed with a certain club stacks up, this chart shows average club head speeds for each type of player.

Tour Player Swing Speed and Distance Chart

Here are the average swing speeds of PGA Tour and LPGA Tour players with each full-swing club, along with their average carry distances, in yards, for each club. This data comes directly from Trackman , which captures dozens of metrics from countless professional and amateur golfers every day.

What Is the Average Distance With Each Golf Club?

Amateur Golf Swing Speed Chart by Gender and Handicap

Trackman measures and publishes actual swing speed data for tour players with every full swing club. Additionally, Trackman has published driver swing speed data for amateur men and women by their handicap range. Given that the handicap index of the average male golfer is around 14.5, Trackman used that as one of its handicap benchmarks, in addition to a category that Trackman calls the “Bogey Golfer.”

Using Trackman’s measured swing speeds for amateur and professional golfers, we can estimate the average swing speed with each club for amateur golfers, both men and women, by handicap.

Combining Trackman’s measured data and these estimations, here is the club head speed chart for amateur golfers.

8 Clubhead Speed Drills to Help You Hit More Bombs

Male Amateur: Average Club Head Speed Chart

Over the years, we’ve collected a ton of data from professional and amateur golfers alike. With access to this data, we can match actual average distances with each club for each type of player with their swing speeds.

Here is the average club head speed chart, with actual and estimated swing speeds, paired with actual average distances from male amateur golfers, according to data provided by Shot Scope, an industry leader in on-course distance measuring devices and stat-tracking. Distances are in yards and are adjusted to remove outlier shots.

Bogey Golfer Official Handicap and Stats

Female Amateur: Average Club Head Speed Chart

While we don’t have big data on the average distance female amateur players hit each club, we can still give you solid estimates on how fast they swing each club. Here’s the swing speed chart for female amateur golfers, broken down by handicap.

4 Iron Distance: Hit it Better and Longer!

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Table of Content

What Distance Does the Average Golfer Hit a 4 Iron?

What factors determine your 4 iron distance, how do you hit a 4 iron better, when to use a 4 iron on the course, what is a good swing speed for a 4 iron, 4 iron distance charts, what yardage do pros hit a 4 iron.

Mastering your iron play is key to success as a golfer. You need to be aware of your distances and have the confidence to hit the ball high and far as you approach the green.

And given the popularity of hybrid clubs today, the longest iron that many players carry is a 4 iron. But what’s the best way to hit it? And how far can you reasonably expect to hit your 4 iron?

Below, we answer all these questions and more as we explain how to get the most out of your trusty 4 iron this season.

The average distance a male golfer can hit a 4 iron is anywhere between 150 and 180 yards. Senior players and women golfers can typically hit a 4 iron between 120 and 150 yards in most instances.

Of course, every golfer is different, and you might find that some recreational golfers can hit a 4 iron further than 180 yards. Some players can also hit a 4 iron further off the tee than they can directly from the grass, which is also worth thinking about when working out your distances.

Given that not every player carries a 2 or 3 iron, a 4 iron is often the longest iron that many golfers carry in their bags. 2 and 3 irons are often replaced by hybrids, which are much easier to hit.

So, to help you with your club selection and ensure that you use a 4 iron from the correct position out on the golf course.

We explain everything you need to know about this long iron in the sections that follow. 

There are 3 main determining factors that dictate how far you hit a 4 iron. These are swing speed, ground hardness (seasonality), and wind. These reasons are why your 4 iron distance might vary from day to day and even season to season.

If you have a particularly fast swing speed and you can hit the ball consistently well, it’s likely to travel further.

Another thing that will affect the distance of your 4 iron is the season. When you play golf in the summer, the ground is much more likely to be hard, and the ball will carry and bounce further than it does during winter golf.

Conversely, when you play golf in the winter, you will find that the ball gets stuck in the grass more and doesn’t roll as far down the fairway.

Depending on the conditions that you’re used to, the season can affect your 4-iron distance by as much as 20 yards either way.

Of course, the wind can also affect the distance of your 4 iron. If you’re hitting the ball into strong winds, your distance will be significantly reduced, and vice versa.

The key to hitting a 4 iron better is practicing out on the range. While lots of players aspire to hit the ball really hard with a fast swing speed, the reality is that recreational golfers typically benefit from slowing things down.

After all, if you try and hit the golf ball too hard, your consistency is likely to suffer as a result, as it’s much more difficult to stay in control of your ball striking.

When you’re practicing your iron play on the range, deliberately slow things down so you can review the mechanisms of your swing.

Then, if you find that you’re slicing or hooking the ball, you can work on your address and set up to ensure you’re square before taking a swing.

As well as slowing things down on the range, another way to improve your ball striking with a 4 iron is to adjust your posture.

Straightening your back and throwing your hands out after impact will help you execute better shots consistently and will reduce the number of errant shots you hit with your 4 iron.

Watch this short video from the Bunkeredonline YT channel which gives you some quick tips on how to hit the 4 iron better:

In the main, use a 4 iron on a par 3 or short par 4, you can tee up with a 4 iron and comfortably hit the ball 150+ yards. Beginner golfers who struggle to hit drivers and fairway metals often turn to a 4 iron, as it helps to get the ball down there as they’re working on their driving.

It’s also a good idea to turn to your 4 iron when you find yourself on the fairway or first cut with around 150 yards to go to the front of the green.

Just remember that landing a 4 iron softly isn’t straightforward, so you will need to allow the ball enough space to roll up to the pin.

Another spot that you might benefit from using a 4 iron is when you need to play a low-flying shot to avoid hanging branches when your ball is in the rough.

When you close the clubface of a 4 iron, you can drive the ball towards your target, confident that it won’t achieve a great deal of height.

In other words, a 4 iron is an extremely versatile club to keep in your bag, and you can use it from different positions out on the course.

Recreational players seek to increase their swing speeds to gain an advantage out on the course. If you manage to hit your 4 iron consistently with a swing speed around the 95mph mark, then this is classed as a good speed.

The average male golfer has a swing speed of around 85mph, while women typically swing the club at around 65mph. As is the case with most irons, achieving an average swing speed is ideal when you’re using a 4 iron as a recreational player.

On the PGA Tour, male golfers average a swing speed of 137mph when hitting a 4 iron, while women on the LPGA Tour achieve swing speeds of around 116mph.

Although swing speed is important, you shouldn’t spend too much time worrying about how fast you swing the club.

Instead, you need to work on the rhythm and consistency of your swing, which is much more crucial to the way in which you hit the golf ball than achieving rocket speeds with your swing.

When you’re calculating your distances out on the golf course, it’s important to remember that every golfer is capable of different things.

You might be slightly below average or slightly higher than average as far as distance is concerned, but it’s important to know how far you can hit each club.

Below is a 4 iron distance chart that you can reasonably expect to hit this mid-iron:

• Short Hitter: 150 yards
• Mid Hitter: 170 yards
• Long Hitter: 180 yards
• Tour Pro: Over 205 yards

If you consider yourself to be a long hitter, then you should be aiming to hit your 4 iron between 180-200 yards, which can set you up nicely for your approach shot without having to pick a fairway metal out of the bag.

The above distances are accurate for men, so women and senior golfers are likely to hit a 4 iron slightly less distance than those given in the table.

Players on the PGA Tour can hit a 4 iron anywhere between 205 and 250 yards. This might surprise you, as this is the distance that some recreational golfers are able to hit their drivers.

But remember, professional golfers work on their swing speed and rhythm consistently and they’re performing at the elite level of the game every single week.

When you see these types of numbers, it’s important not to get too carried away with trying to replicate them.

Just because Bryson DeChambeau can send a 4 iron 250+ yards down the fairway, it doesn’t mean that we can all do it!

If you try and hit the ball too hard and focus less on the natural rhythm of your swing, you will almost certainly end up hitting a poor golf shot.

So, instead of trying to replicate the distances that you see on the PGA Tour, be content with the current distance you achieve with your 4 iron, and practice consistency with the clubs in your bag.

A 4 iron is a really important club as you can use it in so many instances out on the golf course. Whether you’re teeing it up on a par 3 or playing your second shot on a par 5, a 4 iron will help you get the ball down there.

As is the case with every golf club you carry in your bag, spend some time out on the range practicing your swing and ball striking, and you will have no trouble hitting your 4 iron distance consistently further into the future.

What Irons Do the Pros Use? Top 100 PGA Tour Player Guide (2023 update)

Written by Graeme Hay | Last Updated: 21/05/2024

I’ve been planning to change my irons for a while now after a number of years but before going straight to a club fitter to test out all the latest and greatest models I thought it would be interesting to take a look at the iron setups of the best players on the PGA Tour to see what they are playing with.

So we took a look at all the irons the top 100 PGA Tour players are using, discovered the most used iron brand and most popular individual set of irons, found out how many of the pros are using cavity backs or blades before finally seeing what has changed since we last carried out this analysis a couple of years ago.

Titleist are the most played irons by the top 100 on the PGA Tour with 29 using them. Callaway, PING and Srixon irons are each used by 14 with TaylorMade played by 13. PXG irons are chosen by 5 with Wilson used by 4. Ignoring utility irons the most common set up played by 42% of this elite group is 4-iron to pitching wedge.

What is very clear after analyzing in detail the iron setups of the best players on the PGA Tour however is that there is now no such thing as a ‘standard’ set of irons.

Because the world’s best players are always aiming to find whatever advantage they can to help them gain an edge on their competitors they are constantly experimenting with those options to find the best combination that suits their individual game and the particular course they are playing at on any given week.

The days of every pro having a 3-iron to pitching wedge as ‘standard’ are certainly long gone and what is very apparent in the modern game is that the top pros on Tour are seemingly getting closer and closer to almost choosing each iron individually and not as a set.

Most Popular Irons Used on the PGA Tour. Titleist Win Again!

Analyzing the iron setups of the pros is not as straightforward a task as it used to be.

And the simple reason for that is that there are now so many more options for golfers when it comes to making up their set of irons and clubs in general.

Many of the top PGA Tour players are now carrying hybrids or 5-woods or 7-woods in preference to long irons while others are opting for utility/driving irons. So for a good number of pros today their ‘standard’ iron set is starting with a 5-iron or even a 6-iron in the case of Brian Harman!

Irrespective of this though we were still able to put together a complete breakdown of the irons used by the top 100 golfers on the PGA Tour to find out what are the most played irons among this elite group.

Titleist’s T100 irons are the most used irons by the top 100 PGA Tour pros with 20 playing them. Titleist’s 620 CB are the next most popular with 9 using them. Srixon’s ZX7 irons are chosen by 8 pros with Callaway’s Apex TCB model played by 7. PING’s iBlade’s and TaylorMade’s P7TW irons are those brands most used models.

When we did this analysis a couple of years ago Titleist was again the dominant iron brand and given now in 2023 their sets occupy the top two most popular iron slots among the top 100 ahead of all other irons suggests a lot of the top players on the PGA Tour consider them to be the best golf irons.

PGA Tour pros are of course very particular about the irons they play and are forever tinkering in an effort to find that little bit extra that will help them score lower.

We therefore found the top 100 PGA players using 12 different brands and 55 different models of irons from all the top manufacturers including Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade, Srixon/Cleveland, and PING to newer and smaller golf brands such as PXG, Wilson, Mizuno, Cobra, and Miura.

Some of the top 100 we also found unwilling to give up irons made by Nike even though they pulled out of the irons market and stopped making golf clubs a few years back.

The top pros are very particular when it comes to their irons but for now it seems there is a bit of consensus among them that Titleist irons are a bit better than the rest.

[Note – Just so you know, and we are upfront as an affiliate program participant, Golfing Focus, at no cost to you, earns from qualifying purchases made through links on this page.]

Do Any Pros Use Cavity Back Irons? More and More

Because the best pros in the world are so good many amateurs often assume that the vast majority must use blade irons.

For as long as I can remember blade irons were often seen as a right of passage for better players and once a golfer had reached a certain standard they would graduate from cavity back irons to blades.

Looking in detail at the iron set ups of the top 100 players on the PGA Tour it is clear however that such views are a long way from reality.

65 of the top 100 PGA Tour pros use cavity backs and that number rises to 88 when taking into account the players who use at least one cavity back iron in their mixed set. Just 12 of the top 100 only use blades with 35 in total using one blade or more in their set. None of this elite group uses a blade lower than a 4-iron.

Analysing these numbers therefore it is clear that the majority of even the best players in the world choose the extra forgiveness and distance which is afforded to golfers using cavity back irons.

And compared to the numbers we found the last time we did this analysis 2 years ago even fewer pros are using blades with the number of players only playing blades dropping from 20 to 12 over that period.

“I joke around, ‘I’m not good enough to play the blades,’ but in reality, I think we’re just being smarter. I think we’re just like, ‘Oh, we can actually hit every shot that a blade can hit.’ But that chance that we mishit them – which we’re going to mishit a few shots in a round, even in a great round, the idea that it does carry that bunker and you make birdie on a hole where someone has to get up-and-down for par – I mean, it could be the difference in a tournament.” Jordan Speith, 3-time major champion

In addition when it comes to the blades being used by the top pros today modern iron technology means that these irons are a far cry from the ‘blades’ of years past which would look no thicker than a knife and give your hands a ‘sting’ on a cold day when not hit correctly out of the middle of the face.

Huge advancements in golf tech have meant that many of today’s ‘blade’ irons are more forgiving and closer to a cavity back iron than they used to be with the result that the distinction between the two club types is no longer as clear as it once was.

By putting more metal behind the hitting zone golf club designers are now creating ‘blades’ which have picked up the nickname of ‘muscle back’ irons.

So when you hear people talking about ‘blades’ nowadays it is likely that they are talking about ‘muscle back’ irons which are a bit away from the thin pieces of metal that were called ‘blades’ back in the day.

That is not to say that there are not still some very traditional blades around today being used by some of the best iron players on Tour – Taylor Made’s P7TW’s being played by Tiger Woods and Scottie Scheffler are a great example.

It is just that they are not used by a lot of players and when it comes to the longest irons in particular not one of the top 100 pros on Tour today is prepared to use blades.

World No.1 Scottie Scheffler for example may use very unforgiving P7TW blade irons for the main part of his set from 5-iron to pitching wedge but when it comes to his 3-iron and 4-iron he is more than happy to go with the much greater forgiveness offered by Srixon’s Z U85 cavity backed driving iron!

And he’s not doing too badly as a result!

Combo Iron Sets Are Increasingly Popular on the PGA Tour

Our 2023 analysis of which pros are using cavity backs and which are using blades again also threw up a clear trend amongst the top 100 on the PGA Tour.

And that is the ‘mixed set’ of irons that many are now choosing to use.

Long gone are the days when the pros would have a consistent iron set from a 2 or 3-iron all the way through to a pitching wedge and today it seems clear that the best players in the world are looking at almost every individual iron to see if there is a better alternative.

We found 42 of the top 100 PGA Tour pros (up from 27 a couple of years ago!) are opting for a ‘mixed set’ of irons where they use more than one iron model and indeed some of them are actually using 3 separate models of irons.

Cameron Young for example uses a cavity back Titleist T200 4-iron and 620 CB 5-iron before choosing 620 MB blade irons from 6-iron through to 9-iron.

2020 USPGA and 2021 British Open Champion Collin Morikawa meanwhile uses a Taylor Made P770 4-iron but then switches to TaylorMade P7MC irons for his 5 and 6-irons before opting for the P730’s from his 7-iron to pitching wedge.

This trend of opting for more forgiving cavity or ‘hollow head’ irons for longer irons before choosing blades for shorter irons seems to be a clear one in the pro ranks and as such we can again see that the question about which irons the pros use is not as clear cut as it once was.

Indeed pros including Tony Finau, Maverick McNealy, Daniel Berger, and Brooks Koepka even mix the brands of irons they use in their combo sets.

[Editor’s note – ‘hollow’ head/body irons have an ‘internal cavity’ to remove inefficient weight and therefore increase forgiveness without the need to make the club head the size of a large cavity back .]

When you add ‘driving’ or ‘utility’ irons into the picture also the idea of the ‘mixed/combo’ set becomes even more evident as in addition to the 42 pros we noted who have an identifiable mixed set amongst their standard irons a further 22 players, add a 2, 3, 4 or even 5 utility iron to their bag.

So if we consider driving irons as ‘standard’ irons we can see close to two-thirds of the top 100 players on the PGA Tour opt for a ‘mixed set’ of irons.

We put utility irons in a comparative bucket with hybrids and high-numbered fairway woods – and you can see what individual driving irons the top 100 are using here – but what is also fascinating to see among the best players on tour is the multiple different combinations of numbers of irons that they carry in their bag.

While 10% of the top 100 on Tour stick with the traditional 3-iron to pitching wedge iron setup, including Tony Finau and Billy Horschel and Brooks Koepka, there are two more popular setups within this elite group.

42% of the best 100 on the PGA Tour prefer to start their iron set with a 4-iron and carry irons all the way through to a pitching wedge while 28% choose instead to use only a 4-iron through to 9-iron before switching to specialist wedges.

These percentages are again up on a couple of years ago, when we found 29% chose 4-iron to pitching wedge and 22% played 4-iron to 9-iron, so it seems an increasing number of the best pros on the PGA Tour are settling on one of these two iron set ups.

The chart below shows the full range of iron set ups currently being used by the top 100 which interestingly also include a few anomalies.

Brian Harman for example doesn’t start his traditional iron set until a 6-iron choosing a 4 and 5-iron Titleist U-500 driving iron while Lucas Herbert doesn’t use a 5-iron at all playing with a 4-iron and then a 6-iron to pitching wedge.

Hudson Swafford meanwhile has two different 5-irons in his bag – one Titleist T200 and one Titleist 620 CB.

Taking all this into account one thing seems crystal clear therefore when it looking at the iron set ups of the top 100 players on the PGA Tour.

There is no longer such a thing as a ‘standard’ set of irons.

Breakdown of Irons Used on the PGA Tour

When looking at your clubs it is always natural to wonder what the best pros in the world are using by comparison.

Discussions about which tour players are using the latest PING or Callaway or Mizuno or PXG irons for example are common throughout the golfing world and knowing some pros are using the same Titleist T200 or Srixon ZX7 or TaylorMade P770 irons as you is a good feeling.

So to satisfy that curiosity we’ve listed below the complete breakdown of all the irons being used by the top 100 PGA Tour players, including golfers who only use one individual iron of a particular model.

Before you go …

Ever wondered how far the pros hit their irons compared to amateurs and how your own iron distances stack up against other regular players?

Read our next article to find out how far you should hit your irons according to your handicap, age, and swingspeed!

How Far Should I Hit My Irons? By Handicap, Age & Swingspeed

Other top articles related to this topic:

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• What Driver is Most Used On the PGA Tour? Top 100 Player Analysis
• The Fairway Woods Used by the Top 100 PGA Tour Pros
• What Hybrid Golf Clubs Do the Top 100 PGA Tour Pros Use?
• What Driving Irons Do the Pros Use on the PGA Tour?
• What Wedges Do the Pros Use? Top 100 PGA Tour Player Analysis
• What Putters Do the Pros Use? Top 100 PGA Tour Player Guide
• What Golf Balls Do the Pros Use? Top 100 PGA Tour Players Breakdown
• What Golf Grips Do the Pros Use? Top 100 PGA Tour Player Guide
• What Shafts Do Pros Use? Top 100 PGA Tour Player Breakdown
• Do Pros Use Regular or Stiff Shafts? They’re Stronger Than That!
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• Most Popular Driver on LPGA Tour? Top 50 Player Guide
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• What Drives the Senior Tour Pros? Most Popular Driver on Champions Tour
• From Tee to Green: Analyzing What Golf Balls Champions Tour Pros Use
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Average Golf Club Distances: Charts for All Skill Levels

Fact Checked By Ben Jenks

Interested in knowing how far you should be able to hit a ball with a specific club? We found out.

Here are some estimated golf club distances a newer golfer could aim for:

• Driver: 225 yards
• 3 Wood: 205 yards
• 5 Wood: 190 yards
• 4 Iron: 175 yards
• 5 Iron: 165 yards
• 6 Iron: 155 yards
• 7 Iron: 145 yards
• 8 Iron: 135 yards
• 9 Iron: 125 yards
• PW: 120 yards
• SW: 90 yards

Your distances will vary, and I advise clients to hit the range with all of your clubs to find your exact distances. Read on because you won’t want to miss the exact approach I recommend so you can choose the right clubs for your game. 

Distance By Swing Speed

Get more distance, women’s golf club distance chart, pga tour players: average golf club distances, lpga tour players: average golf club distances, how to figure out your golf club distance, final thoughts, men’s golf club distance chart.

As a general guide, anything above 20 is considered a high handicap, 10-20 is a medium handicapper, and <10 is a low handicapper. 

However, your swing speed will greatly impact your average distance. You’ll also get more distance if you swing faster than the average golfer. 

Here are some examples:

Note: These golf club distance charts are based on averages according to published data.

Want More Distance? Check Out One Of My Favorite Courses

As a general guide, female high handicappers are 35 and above, medium handicappers are 25 – 35, and low handicappers are less than 25. 

How do the pros compare to us mere mortals? Here are the facts you can use to impress your buddies. 

Source: PGA Shotlink 2022

But these distances are just the averages. In recent years, LIV golfer Bryson DeChambeau has been the biggest hitter on tour with over 310-yard drives. 

Plus, the best data available tracks carry distance for the PGA and LPGA players. Their full shot distances are longer. This distance from the tee to the first bounce does not include the subsequent roll.  For example, the average full driver distance on the PGA tour is roughly 320 yards. It’s safe to say that PGA pros drive the ball much further than the average golfer. 

However, recently, there’s some news that golf’s governing bodies are trying to limit the drives of the pros.

The USGA and R&A are looking at the massive drives of golf pros and claim it can damage the sport. They propose to limit the pros to using a new type of ball that would reduce most drives by about 15 yards. As you can imagine, many golf pros aren’t happy about this, but Rory supports it .

Of course, amateurs like us don’t need to worry — unless you’re bombing +300-yard drives at your local course.

The expectation of every generation that they’re going to hit it longer than the previous generation, we think that is taking golf in the wrong direction. And we do see some really good opportunities to mitigate these pressures. USGA CEO Mike Davis

The professional ladies can hit further than the male high handicappers as well. 

Source: TrackMan 2022

The fastest way to establish your average distance benchmarks is to record your shots at the driving range. Start with your 7-iron, PW, and driver. If you hit each club 50 times and eliminate the 5 worst and 5 best, that will give you a fairly accurate idea of your average with that club. 

I’ve tried this at my local driving range, and it can take a few hours. You’ll also go through plenty of buckets of balls. But that’s time well spent. Now, I’m confident that when choosing clubs, I know how far I’ll be able to hit it. That wasn’t always the case, as I was often unsure, which affected my swing. If you go with a buddy, then this can be a fun and productive way to spend a Saturday.

The same can be done on the course, but it will not be as accurate and will take much longer. Having a great rangefinger and the best golf apps are the way to improve your accuracy. I also use yardage markers. These can vary from course to course but are generally color-coded markers displaying 200 (normally blue), 150 (normally white), and 100 yards (normally red). One can pace backward or forward from the nearest marker to determine your golf club distance.

The best approach is to use both the range and the course and keep track of your averages and progress. This is an excellent exercise for beginner golfers, and keeping a log book or journal of your distances is a good idea.

Read more: If you want to get more distance from your irons, check out our full review of the best player’s distance irons .

Golf club distance charts with averages do not give the full picture as there are so many other factors to consider, but they do make for a useful starting point. These charts illustrate the relevant differences between the various club distances across skill levels. 

You can take this info and use it as aims to target. But you want to take other factors into account as well.

Of course, there are several things you can do to improve your golf and reduce your score , but knowing your range of golf club distances well will help you make smart decisions on the course. It will take some time and effort but has the potential to dramatically improve your enjoyment of the game as well as your score.

You will have to know your average for your swing and style and with your particular clubs. The saved yards and better lies will still positively impact your results. Of course, it always helps to hit the sweet spot when it comes to distance!

Do it. You won’t regret it.

Read more: For a step-by-step approach to getting more distance from your driver , check out our full article.

Clint McCormick

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 [email protected] .

• Clint McCormick https://www.golfspan.com/author/clint-mccormick Bifurcation in Golf: What It Is & How It Affects You?
• Clint McCormick https://www.golfspan.com/author/clint-mccormick TaylorMade Stealth Plus Driver Review: Pros & Cons
• Clint McCormick https://www.golfspan.com/author/clint-mccormick 3 Best Maxfli Golf Balls You Need To Consider
• Clint McCormick https://www.golfspan.com/author/clint-mccormick Illegal Golf Ball Markings? Rules & Etiquette Explained

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Golf Club Distance Chart: By Skill Level, Age & Gender

• Last updated on April 12, 2021

I reviewed data from Trackman, Flightscope, Arccos, and more. I mapped them to different skill levels, ages & genders . In the end, I have also included the stock distances of famous pros!

There is a lot of information about how far you should hit your clubs, but they often lack completeness and background information. I have set to change that and will also cover what influences distance and how to improve it.

Table of Contents

Golf Club Distance Chart for Men By Skill Level

This chart shows you the average distances per skill level for male golfers. Where are you on this chart?

Golf Club Distance Chart for Woman By Skill Level

This chart shows you the average distances per skill level for female golfers.

Golf Club Distance Chart for Senior Golfers

This chart shows you the average distances per skill level for senior golfers .

Golf Club Distance Chart for PGA Tour Players

Here is how far male PGA Tour professionals hit their clubs in average.

Golf Club Distance Chart for LPGA Tour Players

This chart shows you the average distances for LPGA Tour Players.

Golf Club Distance Chart By Swing Speed

What impact does swing speed have on distance? In perfect conditions, see the table below. Keep in mind that the smash factor plays a major role when it comes to distance.

Ball Speed to Distance Conversion Chart

Driver swing speed chart by skill level.

How fast should you swing your Clubs? Kyle Berkshire’s (World long drive champion) fastest recorded swing speed was 155 mph!

Key Factors for Distance

Each club has a unique loft. Typically, higher lofts will translate into higher ball-flights. For example, drivers are built for distance , hence they have a low angle of loft. Lob wedges on the other hand are designed to propel the ball into the air and present a steep angle of descent. That way, the ball will stop closer to the point of impact.

Your distances are greatly affected by the weather conditions. Hitting a ball into the wind might balloon it into the air, taking away length. In contrary to playing in high altitudes, players usually experience increased distances. See Rory’s distances WGC-Mexico Championship in Mexico .

Swing Speed & Smash Factor

Logically, the faster your swing speed, the greater your distance. But in addition, the quality of strike plays a huge role to determine how far you hit the ball .

Smash Factor is ball speed divided by club speed. Smash Factor relates to the amount of energy transferred from the club head to the golf ball . The higher the smash factor the better the energy transfer. A golfer would hope to achieve a smash factor near 1.50 on driver shots.

Famous Pros

Tiger woods.

PGA Tour Victories: 82

Phil Mickelson

PGA Tour Victories: 44

Jack Nicklaus

PGA Tour Victories: 73

Rory Mcllroy

PGA Tour Victories: 18

Note: Measured at 7,600 feet above sea level, WGC-Mexico Championship at the Club de Golf Chapultepec Club, Mexico.

Bryson DeChambeau

PGA Tour Victories: 8

Dustin Johnson

PGA Tour Victories: 16

Know your distances

Looking at the charts can be intimidating. On the other hand, it can also lower your expectations! More important than how far you hit the ball is to know your own distances.

Go to the range and map out your 50%-100% distances with every club. In the end, nobody cares if you placed the ball 3 feet from the hole with a 6 iron or a 9 iron.

What to do next

Look at our favorite swing tips to improve your game! More distance off the tee is an easy way to lower your scores !

Francesco Diomaiuta

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The Versatility of the 4 Iron

by Matt Ristine | Feb 13, 2015 | Golf Club , Golf Club Distance

By Paul Myers

As more and more golfers use hybrid clubs instead of their 2 and 3 irons, many players have the 4 iron as their longest iron in the bag. If that sounds like your current setup, you will probably want to make sure you understand everything you can do with your 4 iron – including how far you can hit it. Knowing your 4 iron distance accurately can be important because it allows you to pick the right club at the right time and hit quality shots from long distances. The good news is that, for most golfers, the 4 iron is typically easier to hit than the 2 or 3 irons. With some practice and basic fundamentals, your 4 iron can be one of the most useful clubs in your bag.

4 Iron Distance Needs to Be Consistent

With any club in your golf bag, including the 4 iron, one important element is consistency from shot to shot. When you are able to dial in your distance within a few yards either direction, it can become much easier to pick which club to hit on which shot. If you are a player who averages right around 90 MPH swing speed with your driver, you can expect to hit your 4 iron right around 163 yards. Of course, your personal distance will vary slightly based on a number of factors. However, that 163 yard estimate for a player with a 90 MPH driver swing speed is a good place to start.

Learn the Knock Down Shot

When the wind comes up on the golf course, it can help to be prepared with some shots that you can hit to counteract the effects of the wind. Your 4 iron can be a great asset in this situation. Practicing a ‘knock down’ shot – a low shot that is meant to fly under the wind – is time well spent on the practice range. You will want to only make a portion of your normal swing in order to hit a good knock down shot. While this kind of shot will never reach the full distance of your regular swing, total distance isn’t the goal. You probably just want to be able to hit the ball straight and avoid having the wind affect the ball too much while it’s in the air.

A lot of golfers have fallen into the trap of believing that they aren’t good enough to hit long irons – but that isn’t always true. A 4 iron is a club that can be easy enough for most golfers to hit, and it can provide plenty of benefits in terms of flexibility and distance from the fairway. Spend some time working with your 4 iron on the practice tee and you might be pleasantly surprised by the results.

If you liked the article and you think it would help another golfer, please like it.

To learn more about Swing Man Golf products and hit it longer with swing speed training, click here .

And, if you would like to add 30 to 40 yards to your drives over the next 30 days, like thousands of our customers have before you, you might consider our unique Swing Man Golf Swing Speed Training.

Use the tool below to find out a.) how fast your swing speed should be and b.) how fast you COULD swing it soon:

HOW FAR SHOULD YOU DRIVE IT? HOW FAR COULD YOU DRIVE IT?

…based on gender, age, handicap and average driving distance? Use this tool to find out:

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• 2023 PGA TOUR Club Head Speed Rankings

How Far Should You Hit A 4 Iron?

To play golf at a single digit handicap level, the amateur golfer should hit their 4 iron at least 170 yards.  To play at the scratch level, they will want to reach closer to 190 or more.  If you a high handicap golfer, there are better club options.

Hitting the longer irons in golf can be one of the most difficult shots in golf.

However, when the golfer is able to pull it off, there aren’t many shots that feel better in the golf.  When a golfer can get the 3, 4 or 5 iron go high and far, chances are they are swinging quite well.  One of the quickest measures of golf to see if you really are swinging well is to test a longer iron like the 4 iron.

Did You Know? The average carry distance on the PGA Tour with a 4 iron is 203 yards.  This is produced by a 96 mile per hour swing and a 137 mph ball speed. The average carry distance on the LPGA Tour with a 4 iron is 169 yards.  This is produced by a 80 milieu per hour swing and a 116 mph ball speed. https://blog.trackmangolf.com/trackman-average-tour-stats/

But, how about the amateur golfer?

How Should You Hit A 4 Iron?

My Journey: I now play many courses in that 6500-6800 yard range. Being able to hit shots between 175 and 210 yards on long par 4s and long par 3s is vital to making pars and keeping pace and around par. Hitting the ball solid is the key with a predictable shot pattern. My current swing thought it a full turn with the 4 iron and then fast arms through the shot. Hit it clean and keep it on line for best results!

Quick Recap:

• Pro Golfer = 203 yard carry
• Single Digit Handicap Golfer = 170 yards
• Scratch Level Golfer = 190 yards
• High Handicap Golfer = Better options other than a 4 iron

How to hit a 4 iron! (Complete Overview)

If we are honest with ourselves, the 4 iron is difficult to hit far enough, high enough and straight enough at certain swing speed levels.  If the golfer is struggling to produce enough swing speed, the golfer is going to struggle to hit the ball far enough and high enough. 

One of the most difficult parts about the long irons is that even if the ball flies a decent distance, holding the green can be difficult if the shot doesn’t fly high enough.

• 4 Iron vs 4 Hybrid
• 4 Iron vs 5 Wood
• 4 Iron vs 7 Wood

How to increase distance with a 4 iron?

The golfer can work on one or all of the following areas:

• Increase swing speed
• Increase center face hits
• Improve spin rate
• Improve launch angle

The cremation of the 4 factors above will help the golfer get the maximum distance out of the 4 iron.

#1 Increase Swing Speed

Without a certain swing speed in golf, even with all of the other numbers being perfect, the golfer is always going to struggle with distance.  This can make the game difficult if a golfer is hitting a 7 iron from 110 yards out and can only hit their 4 iron 150 yards.  The good news for golfers in today’s game is there are options to improve swing speed.  

Our number one recommendation is the training tools and training protocols from SuperSpeed Golf.

Check current price on SuperSpeed Golf, here!

Even if the golfer optimizes their center face contact and has the ideal spin rate and launch angle for their swing speed, if the swing speed isn’t at a certain level the golf just won’t carry far enough.  

Gone are the days of being stuck at your current swing speed or feeling like, “I am just not a long hitter!”  

My own personal story around overspeed training saw my driver increase from around 101 miles per hour to a max of 117 miles per hour with an average of right in the 112 mile per hour range.  My carry distance with the driver is now right around 270 with a 3 wood carry distance in the low 240s!

If you want extra distance with your all clubs in your bag, start some speed training and then work on optimizing the next 3 areas!

#2 Improve Center Face Hits

As your swing speed improves, you will find that when you catch the ball on the center of the face you will get a higher ball speed and more distance.  If you can only raise your swing speed 2-3 miles per hour, but rarely hit the face due to the increased speed, you won’t see a big increase in distance.  However, when you can get to 5-10 mph increase and hit the center of the race, you will start to experience more distance with every club in the bag.

#3: Improve Spin Rate

That variable is often overlooked by most amateur golfers, but it is becoming more commonly discussed by amateurs.  We have all experienced the power of the spin rate with all of our clubs.  

Have you ever hit the shot that seems to fly forever?  Chances are you had the right spin rate to maximize your swing speed and launch angle.  Or have you ever hit the shot that seems to balloon and not travel as far as usual?  This is more than likely a result of having too high of a spin rate, which robs the golfer of distance.  

With the 4 iron, the lack of spin might result from a flier lie and the extra distance actually sends the ball too far.  Optimizing your spin rate is vital to getting enough distance with every club.  Too much spin with any club will reduce the carry distance.

#4 Improve Launch Angle

For every swing speed and spin rate there is an optimum launch angle.  Launch angle with the 4 iron becomes important based on whether you are trying to hold the green or hit a runner down the fairway.  Being able to produce different launch angles is a sign of a quality golfer.  The golfer that inadvertently has different launch angles might struggle with distance control, especially on a windy day.

Testing out and measuring your launch angle is important to understand simple adjustments you can make in your setup, club or swing to produce various height golf shots.

TIP: Seek Feedback Through A Launch Monitor

My number one recommendation for all four of these categories is to get a device like the Skytrak Launch Monitor, which can provide immediate feedback on every shot you hit during your practice sessions.  This helps the golfer make adjustments in the swing or the equipment he or she is using.

I highly recommend the Skytrak Launch Monitor.  There are two other quality options at a similar price point linked below.

Here are the top 3 Launch Monitor options to check out:

• SkyTrak Launch Monitor
• FlightScope Mevo+ Launch Monitor
• Mevo Launch Monitor

The data you can get after every shot includes the following:

• Ball and Club Speed
• Carry and Total Distance
• Launch Angle

In addition to this key information you will also see a shot tracer to help you control your clubface and swing path and develop a stock shot to finally play the consistent golf you seek!  

What is the most important part of the golf swing?

MAJOR KEY: Understanding How Far You Hit Each Club

I would highly recommend each golfer create a distance chart like the sample below:

This might be the most important information you can use to help you play quality golf.  I have heard so many stories and have seen it first hand where golfers completely over estimate how far they hit each iron.

We have all experienced it or witnessed a friend or playing parter go through this scenario: You step up to a tee box on a 180 yard par 3.  You pull your 4 iron and only hit it 175 yards and end up in the front bunker.  You make bogey or worse and you actually hit the tee shot really solid.  If you have good information and had tested your distance, you might have had better knowledge that you 4 iron travels 175 on average and not 180 yards.

Complete Post: How Can I Improve My Distance Control?

How can you create your own chart?

Best option: i would highly recommend a launch monitor.

These portable devices can be used at the driving range, golf course or set up in your home net or golf simulator.  These devices are game changers not only on being able to map your bag and know your distances, but they also provide quality feedback after on every shot and provide the following information:

• Carry Distance
• Total Distance

This information will help you map your bag, decide on which clubs are best for your game, develop a stock shot and much more.  I love using my SkyTrak 365 days a year in my golf simulator setup.

Best swing path for irons?

The process for mapping your bag can looking something like this:

• Hit 5 shots with each club in your bag.
• Log the carry distance and total distance for each shot.
• Eliminate any outlier numbers (poor hits or low spin rates).
• Take the average and create a map of your bag.

If you visit any PGA Tour event you will see plenty of golfers utilizing their launch monitors.  While most can’t afford a Trackman, there are some very affordable options in the 500-2000 dollar range.  I own the SkyTrak and think the world of it.  

Here are the top 3 options to check out:

Final Thoughts: Have Fun!

Whether you are trying to score better through improving the short game or gaining extra distance, make sure you have fun on your journey!  The exciting news that golfers can gain distance is a game changer for many.  We have seen some of the golfers as they reach 50 actually dive into speed training and improve their driver distance!

Wish you hit the ball further?  Here are two great resources:

• SuperSpeed Golf – Read our Full Review
• Gain 30-40 yards in 30 Days – Swing Man Golf

My Secret To Golf Improvement

Let’s face it, in order to get really good at golf, we must practice frequently.  About four years ago, I made the leap and invested in a golf simulator build for my garage.  I went with a SkyTrak Launch Monitor and the TGC software and can now play over 100,000 courses including Augusta, Pebble Beach, Bethpage Black, Whistling Straits. St. Andrews and many other of the top 100 courses in the world.

This golf simulator setup, which is more affordable that you might imagine, has been a game changer.  I can now play golf everyday of the year regardless of rain, snow, cold weather or time of day.  I can practice or play rounds of golf.  I can stand in the 11th fairway at Augusta and with the auto-rewind feature I am able to practice my approach shots from various differences.

It is worth checking out through Rain or Shine Golf as they offer some incredible packages along with financing offers that are difficult to beat.

Some direct links to Rain or Shine Golf for pricing and financing:

• Rain or Shine Golf
• Rain or Shine Golf Financing Offers
• Rain or Shine Golf Packages

Take Action – What You Can Do Today to Get Better

What does this mean for you?  I believe in the following recipe to get better:

1 – Improve your motion in the golf swing by identifying a golf instructor.  Here are some options:

Here is a list of golf instructors that we have reviewed:

• George Gankas
• Bobby Lopez
• Shawn Clement
• Mike Malaska
• Jim Venetos
• Monte Scheinblum

2 – Train to swing faster and improve your swing speed.  Here are some options:

Looking to gain more Speed and Distance in your swing. Two Options:

3 – Understand course strategy and work to break through your next barrier.  Here is a series on breaking through:

We have provided guides on how to break 100, 90, 80 and 70. Check out more below, if interested.

• How to Break 100
• How to Break 90
• How to Break 80
• How to Break 70

4 – Practice Frequently

Did you know that I build a golf simulator in my garage and have played over 500 rounds of golf on my SkyTrak system?  It has been a game changer and one worth checking out. Here are some of my other posts on golf simulators frequently asked questions:

• Is a Golf Simulator Worth It?
• How to Build a Golf Simulator?
• What is the Best Golf Simulator?
• Golf Simulator Accessories?
• How to Build a Golf Simulator for under $7000
• Top 11 Reasons to Buy a SkyTrak
• How to Build a Golf Simulator for Under $1000
• Why Build A Golf Simulator?
• What Space is Needed?
• Can A Golf Simulator Improve My Game?
• How Much Does A Golf Simulator Cost?
• Don’t Forget to Check out our 15 best golf swings of all time.

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Golf Iron Distances Chart (Club-by-Club)

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There are five different types of clubs you can use on the golf course. They include woods, wedges, putters, hybrids, and irons. Despite there being no restriction on the types of clubs you can select, most golfers use distance as their selection criteria. Keeping this in mind, what are the different golf iron distances?

Golf iron distances can range from 95 yards to about 200 yards, and even higher for professional golfers using the best players irons on the market. For example, elite PGA male golfers can achieve a golf iron distance of up to 220 yards. However, several factors come into play when determining how far you can hit the ball, making it essential to consider these when selecting which golf irons to include in your bag.

I suggest you keep reading below to get the most out of this article, but if you’re short on time, here’s a quick golf iron distance chart:

Stick around to discover the distances you can achieve with golf iron clubs and the factors that influence how far you hit the ball.

What Are The Golf Iron Distances?

Typically, you will use golf irons when you are about 200 yards to the hole. If you’re a beginner, check out the most forgiving irons to help straighten out your shot.

Additionally, you can use three categories of irons, each with varying capabilities.

Below is a breakdown of each category’s capability to help you get the right combination for your next game.

Average Distances for “Short Irons”

These clubs are best for when you are closest to the hole. This is because their design only allows for height and spin instead of distance.

Clubs considered “short irons” are your 8-iron and 9-iron.

The table below shows the average distances you can achieve, depending on your skill level.

The 8-iron is ideal for chip and approach shots, while the 9-iron is more suited for shots where you want more height.

In addition, you should include these clubs in your golf bag if you are playing a short par three game. This is because these games require you to make accurate shots over a short distance. 

Average Distance for “Mid Irons”

Clubs under this category are your 5,6, and 7-irons. The “mid irons” are ideal for hitting the ball at a higher trajectory, and you will find them in use for the second shot at par four or par-five holes.

In addition, modern mid irons now feature a graphite shaft, which gives you greater distance since the club is easier to control.

Here are the golf mid iron distances you can expect:

Average Distance for “Long Irons”

Long irons get their name from their long shafts and feature your 3 and 4-iron clubs. Their design allows you to hit the ball over long distances with a lower launch angle. Typically, most golfers use long irons when on the rough or fairway. 

Additionally, they can be helpful when you want to get out of tight spots, such as when you have trees over your ball trajectory.

Below are the average distances you can expect when using golf “long irons”:

Long irons can be challenging to use if you are an average player since they are less accurate. As such, you will not find them in regular use by casual players. Furthermore, golfers no longer rely on the 3-iron, instead opting for the 3-hybrid club that achieves greater distances.

5 Factors that Impact Your Golf Iron Distances

You need to have the lowest number of shots to win a golf game. Therefore, you should maximize your golf iron distances on every shot.

We’ve listed several factors below that can prevent you from reaching your furthest golf irons distances:

1. Your Fitness Level

You need to be at a peak fitness level to achieve greater golf iron distances. This involves working on your flexibility and generating enough muscle power for your shots.

For example, most pro golfers practice yoga to develop their core muscles and improve flexibility. As such, they can execute the turns and extensions necessary for the perfect shot.

Furthermore, you need to have the correct balance to achieve greater golf iron distances.

Most amateur golfers waste their energy preventing themselves from falling. As such, the energy they transfer from the club to the ball is not sufficient to achieve the distance they require. 

2. You are Using the Wrong Golf Irons

Depending on your golf technique, there is a huge variety of golf irons to choose from. As such, you need to select the type that best matches your skill level. For example, cavity back irons offer you a larger sweet spot on the clubface, allowing you to hit the ball further. 

Similarly, you can choose between three categories of golf clubs according to your skill level. These are player irons for elite players, game improvement irons for average players, and super game improvements irons for amateurs. 

3. Your Golf Iron Shaft Length is Wrong

Your golf iron shafts need to be the appropriate length if you want to achieve longer distances with your shots.

Most golf shops feature a golf club size guide to help you select the best set of golf irons for your height. For example, if you are 5ft 6 inches, your golf iron shaft length should be 0.5 inches shorter than the standard length of 44.5 inches.

4. Your Swing Speed is Low

Your swing speed also plays a crucial part in how far you will hit the ball. Typically, the faster your swing speed, the greater your golf iron distance.

This statement only remains true if you hit the ball correctly, meaning you should always strike the ball with the sweet spot of your clubface.

5. Your Gender

Finally, your gender can also be a determining factor in your golf iron distances. From the tables above, you will notice around a forty-yard difference between male and female golfers.

This gap is closing because better equipment and training methods are now reducing gender differences.

Meet Kolter, the dedicated golfer driving Honest Golfers forward. His golfing journey started at the young age of 8, guiding him through youth tours, high school, and college golf. With a remarkable stint as a two-time Team Captain at Carroll College, Helena, MT, and participation as a two-time World Long Drive regional qualifier, Kolter's expertise runs deep. Now, he shares his lifelong passion and knowledge, offering sincere advice and gear recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Embark on a golfing adventure with him, and together, let's enhance our skills on the fairways.

• Information , Information

Iron Distance Chart Decoded by Age, Gender, and Skill Levels

• December 9, 2023

One of the few key differences between average golfers and advanced golfers is the knowledge of their golf iron distance chart. Actions backed by data are effective in making progress.

Why Do You Need an Iron Distance Chart?

Golfer types, golf types and relative swing speeds, average swing speed by age (beginners to advance), iron distance chart for men, iron distance chart for women, iron distance chart for senior golfers (men and women), average iron distance w.r.t. swing speed, average iron distance of liv and pga golfers, how can you get your iron distance chart, practices to increase your iron distance, people also ask.

In this blog, we will decode the golf iron distances chart w.r.t age, gender, and skill levels (golfer categories, average swing speed by golfer type, average swing speeds by age, distance charts for irons of men, women, seniors, LIV, and PGA Tour players).

A PGA Tour player hits a 7-iron to 4 different distances and trajectories with partial swings by choice and command over the game. On the contrary, an average golfer hits it to 4 different distances and trajectories either accidentally or inconsistently.

This is why advanced golfers and pros have their golf iron distances measured.

It is equally important to have a golf club distance chart (driver, fairway woods, hybrids, and wedges) along with the iron distance chart. Improving your golf club distances is possible only when you know the average distance of your golf clubs.

Key Factors and Statistics for Golf Club Distance Chart

There are many factors at play in measuring accurate golf club distances. These are golfer types, age, gender, and skill sets in which swing speed is the most important in determining the average distance.

Let’s break down this pool of information into impactful pieces of knowledge.

Note: The following is vital in establishing our credibility.

Source : pgatour.com , lpga.com , trackman.com , and golfwrx.com

Measurement : All statistical data is measured as carry distance. It does not include rolling or total distance.

We have categorized golfers into six segments with a set range of golf handicaps, rounds played, and time frames.

The following table shows the average swing speeds for different segments of golfers. All speeds are measured for a 4-iron.

It is worth noting that the same swing speed of different golfer segments will not result in the same yardage distance. For example, an average golfer and an LPGA golfer have almost the same swing speed for the same club of 7 iron but their distances will vary based on other factors.

These factors are physical strength, muscle mass, biomechanics, technique, smash factor, equipment , and training and conditioning. Except for equipment, men have more favorable factors.

The following table shows the swing speed of six segments of golfers’ differentiated by age and gender. The lower-end values are for beginners and the higher-end values are for advanced players.

The difference between men’s and female swing speeds is mainly due to the eight factors mentioned above.

However, swing speed is still the most important factor in average distances . A moderate to high swing speed will increase golf club head speed and ball speed. If a beginner golfer has an in-built high swing speed, chances are he will out-drive his fellow golfers of the segment.

Iron Distance Chart for Men, Women, and Senior Golfers

Now let’s talk about the Iron Club distance chart. The following chart will include the distance for different segments of golfers with the same clubs.

Along with irons, we have added pitching wedge, gap wedge, sand wedge, and lob wedge statistical data.

We start with men’s average distances for irons. All the following data is collected for full swings. For the relative segment, expect your iron distances to match the table. If the distances are low, you will need to up your golf game.

We will share effective practices to improve iron distance later in the blog.

As you can see in the chart, beginners, average, and intermediate golfers struggle with longer golf irons that have low loft.

For longer irons, this gap in the yardage is huge. As the lofts increase, the gap in the achievable distance also reduces. Short-hitter golfers struggle with driver swing speed and consistent golf club distance.

A beginner will hit a 5-iron for 130 yards whereas an advanced golfer will hit it for 195 yards. There is a difference of 65 yards for the same golf club.

We have done the same for the iron distance chart for women golfers. In the following chart, you will see a similar gap in average distances. The handicap range of women golfers is higher than men. So the beginner range will have 28+ handicap golfers segment.

The data from 1 to 5 irons is missing because women golfers don’t use the driving and long irons. They cover the initial yardage of any hole by hitting a driver.

Secondly, most women’s golf sets are offered from 6 iron to 9 iron.

The golf club distance is similar to men golfers. A beginner woman golfer hits a 5 iron to 70 yards and an advanced woman golfer carries 130 yards. There is a difference of 60 yards .

Next up, we have data on senior golfers. As golfers age, though their skill level increases, their swing speed decreases. This reduces the average distance. If a senior’s golf club distance is +/- 5 yards from the table below, they are doing good.

If you are playing for a good time, there is no need to stress about the distances unless you are a Tiger Woods prodigy. Take a full swing, hit each club, and have fun on the golf course.

To make things simpler, we have made an iron distance chart relative to the swing speed We have included 60 mph, which is an absolute starting point for any golfer. The higher end is 130 mph, which is unrealistic except for the Long Drive Competition participants.

Most of the PGA Tour players hit between 110-120 mph and most amateurs hit the long clubs with 90-100 mph.

We have already talked about the PGA golfers and their average iron distances. Let’s talk about some of the greats of the golf game and see where they stand on the iron distance chart.

Our list has the following golfers:

Bryson De Chambeau, Dustin Johnson, Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Nelly Korda.

There is an interesting analysis in this iron distance chart. By comparing the distances of Jack Nicklaus and Nelly Korda, you will find them to be almost similar. Even the gender difference could not make much of a difference. Why is that?

That’s the equipment advancement . This is the impact of the latest golf clubs .

Decoding your distances begins with obtaining an a ccurate Iron Distance Chart . Crucial information for refining your game that provides insights into club selection and shot strategy.

To build your chart, consider investing time at a reputable driving range equipped with a launch monitor . These devices precisely measure key metrics like ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate, providing invaluable data for accurate distance calculations.

You can also buy a personal mobile launch monitor such as Rapsodo MLM 2 Pro and get the most accurate information.

Repeatedly hit shots with each iron ( partial swing, half swing, and full swing ), ensuring a stable swing and contact. This routine not only hones your skills but also generates reliable data for your distance chart. Aiming for the ideal conditions, like a calm day without excessive wind, ensures your recorded distances accurately reflect your capabilities.

Regularly updating your Iron Distance Chart is vital for tracking improvements and adjusting strategies. Revisit the driving range to reassess your distances , especially after any swing modifications or equipment changes.

By incorporating Launch Monitor data and adhering to consistent practice , you’ll develop a reliable chart that enhances your decision-making on the course, ultimately elevating your golfing experience.

Record the Data

Once you have all the data, record it on any mobile golf app or make a chart on paper and keep it with yourself whenever you play a round.

Who does not want to improve their golf iron distance? Follow the following 5 points and practice consistently.

How Does Elevation Affect Golf Iron Distances?

Elevation affects air density, reducing resistance. At higher altitudes, golf balls experience less drag, resulting in increased distance.

What Role Does Humidity Play in Golf Iron Distances?

Humidity affects air density, influencing ball flight. Higher humidity creates denser air, potentially causing increased drag and shorter distances.

Is There an Ideal Temperature for Maximizing Golf Iron Distances?

There is no strict ideal temperature, but warmer conditions generally provide better ball compression. Cold air is denser, potentially reducing ball flight.

Do Golf Iron Distances Change on Different Types of Grass?

Grass type influences club interaction with the ball. Tighter fairways may yield more roll, while thicker rough can impede distance.

What is the average distance of 7 iron?

The average distance of a 7 iron for men is 150-165 yards and 100-115 yards for women.

What are carry distance and total distance in golf?

Carry distance is the total air distance of the golf ball before it bounces whereas total distance is the distance from where the shot was played to the point where the golf ball stops after rolling.

Proper knowledge of distance plays an important role in improving the overall game performance of a golfer. This iron chart distance is an indication of how long you should your irons. Keep this iron distance chart as a check mark to achieve distance.

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Golf Club Distance Guide: How Far Should I Be Hitting My Clubs?

• Last updated: 01/02/2023

Ok, so let me ask you a quick question, have you ever met anyone that’s ever said “I wish I didn’t hit the ball as far.”? Yeah, me neither.

Distance is just one of those things that people look at as the Holy Grail. Sure, being a great putter and being able to sink 10 footers consistently will lower your scores but everyone wants to be able to hit the ball far.

Take the numbers we show below with a grain a salt since you might have a guy who’s a 14 handicap and crushes the ball but can’t sink a putt to save his life.  On the other end, you might be the guy who only hits a driver 200 yards but whenever you get inside a 100 yards, you’re an assassin.

As a general rule though, the farther you hit the ball, the lower your handicap will be.

Now before we dive into how far you should be hitting your clubs, let’s start by getting a baseline of how far pros and top amateurs really hit the ball.

Men’s PGA Tour Pro Golf Club Distances

Now before you start diving into these numbers, keep 1 thing in mind. In the world there are about 60,000,000 people who describe themselves as golfers and only about 125 carry PGA Tour Card. So what we’re talking about here are (get ready for this) the top .0002% of all golfers in the world, yikes!

Here’s some data we were able to get from Trackman :

The one number you may not be familiar in the above chart is the column called “Smash Factor”. All this number is, is the ball speed/clubhead speed and it indicates the quality of contact with the ball.

The higher the smash factor, the better contact you’re making and therefore getting maximum ball speed when leaving the club face which then translates to overall carry distance.

Men’s Scratch Golfer (0 Handicap) Golf Club Distances

A scratch golfer is someone who carries a handicap of 0. What this basically means is that on a par 72 course with a rating of 72, a scratch golfer is someone capable of shooting even par. Notice I said “capable” not average, because that’s what a handicap measures; the potential of what the player CAN shoot.

Now when you look at the number of golfers who are scratch, you’re talking about the Top 1% of all golfers or about 600,000 total in the world.

So I’m sure as you can notice, the scratch golfer is right up there when it comes to distances of what a tour pro hits, maybe 1 club less.

The real differences that can’t be measured by distance are things like putting, greens in regulation, fairways hit, bunker saves, scrambling, etc…

Men’s Average Golfer (14 handicap) Golf Club Distances

So this is where the vast majority of golfers lie. The median (50% above and 50% below) handicap is about a 13. These golfers usually shoot in the low 90’s/high 80’s with the occasional round in the mid 80’s.

As you can see in the numbers above, there is quite a significant difference between the distances of the average golfer and the scratch golfer; about 25-30 yards or 2-3 clubs.

Initially you may be thinking, oh, i just need to swing the club faster! Kinda like this guy:

Well yes and no, remember that little thing I mentioned earlier called “Smash Factor” that takes into consideration the quality of your ball striking?

Even with a very forgiving driver or set of irons , simply swinging harder may lead to more distance but will most probably lead to poorer contact, less distance, and loss of control. For example, let’s take throwing darts. Imagine you have to hit a bullseye from 8 feet away, you’d probably throw the dart at a comfortable speed that you can control.

Now imagine you’re told to hit a bullseye throwing the dart as hard a humanly possible, good luck with that!

Swinging at 100% effort on every shot, you’re going to end up with clubface looking like this one:

(photo from Golfwrx )

Here’s a great article showing the clubface shot dispersion by handicap level.

Now you start adding the differences in the short game and you can see why there is a 14 stroke gap between these types of players.

There’s Hope Though!

So at this point you may feel a little discouraged about where you are compared to other golfers. You may find yourself close to these numbers but you may also find that you’re way off.

Golf is a tough game, while the swing itself is one of the most complex athletic movements. Toss in the other variable like the mental game and you can why sometimes it can take years to become consistent and improve.

While it remains one of the hardest sports in the world, let’s talk about some simple things you can start doing right away to help you improve faster by hitting the ball further and shoot lower scores.

4 Things To Help You Hit The Ball Farther

Hit the sweetspot.

Hopefully you’re convinced that JUST swinging harder isn’t the answer! You need to be focused on making good contact.

To figure out where you’re making contact by getting can of foot powder spray a put some on the club face. Next, go ahead and take a swing and notice where you hit the ball. Now remember that feeling and repeat.

After a while you’ll start to be able to “feel” where you’re making contact on the clubface.

From here I would focus mainly on making good contact, even if that means slowing down your swing and only going at 75% percent. As you start gaining confidence, you can start to swing a little bit harder and who knows, you might start looking like this guy!

Take Lessons

One of the quickest ways to improve is to get professional advice from a PGA Teaching Professional .

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Sometimes what we feel we’re doing is actually different from what we’re really doing. By getting someone to analyze your swing and make some suggestions/tips based on accurate feedback is invaluable.

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As a beginner or even a mid handicapper, getting the latest golf tech can provide dramatic improvements to your game.

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And now finally, we’ve come to the one everyone will probably like the least; start working out regularly!

Golf. Is. A. Sport. Start training like it!

In case you haven’t noticed, the vast majority of the top golfers in the world take their fitness very serious; Brooks Koepka, Rory McIlory, Dustin Johnson and of course the guy who started it all Tiger.

It may seem like a lot but if you’re not sure where to start, then we got the perfect program just for you over here .

There you have it, you know where you stand and you know where you would like to be.

Golf is a difficult game but like anything, putting in the time to get better is the quickest way to improve.

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Either way, get out there, just have fun, and enjoy the game and all it has to offer!

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Best Players’ Distance Irons 2024: The data-backed power machines for lower handicaps

Published: 28 February 2023 Last updated: 25 April 2024

Our test team puts 2024’s leading models through their paces to find out which players’ distance irons top the yardage charts.

• Best Players’ Distance Irons
• How We Test

The best players’ distance irons pack a lot of technology into a head shape that still looks desirable whilst typically generating more ball speed and distance than blade irons or pure players’ irons . If you’re not sure what type of iron you should be playing, check our comprehensive guide to the best golf irons .

The TaylorMade P790 is one of the most well-known examples of a players’ distance iron, with a hollow head that looks almost like a blade but packs a huge amount of power. Players’ distance irons don’t tend to spin as much as pure blades, but the high launch they generate helps shots hold greens.

Best At A Glance:

Best overall players distance iron: TaylorMade P790 Irons | Buy Now – US | Buy Now – UK

Best for descent angle: Mizuno Pro 245 Irons | Buy Now – US | Buy Now – UK

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Who are players’ distance irons for?

From our experience, many players who use blades or players’ irons would actually be better suited to players’ distance irons. They’re certainly not a wonder drug for all golfers, but if you’re anything from a 12-handicapper to a low single-figure player then they’re well worth your attention.

In many instances, the clubhead size in the players’ distance category will be a little larger to inspire more confidence at address. The toplines are reasonably thin and shaft weights tend to be a little lighter than those found in blades. The rapid growth of the players’ distance iron category can not only be attributed to aspirational aesthetics but faster ball speeds and more distance than traditional players’ irons.

Best Players’ Distance Irons 2024:

Mizuno pro 245 irons.

A punchy players' distance irons that will fight it out with the best.

Best for descent angle

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Tour Edge HL4 Iron-Wood Review

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The Tour Edge HL4 Iron-Wood is super easy to hit.  High launching and long.

Introduction

I love it when an OEM goes all-in.  Whether it’s the most demanding blade or a crazy spaceship-like putter, I love clubs that are clearly built for a particular reason.  This is why I love the Tour Edge HL4 Iron-Wood.  Tour Edge is so far in on forgiveness, they put it right in the name: it’s not just an iron, it’s an Iron-Wood.  They set out to make a club that can make the game easier and more fun, and they succeeded.

The Tour Edge HL4 Iron-Wood is a big, meaty club designed to promote confidence.  Looking down at address, you’ll see a very thick top line and a “Rear Inverted Crown” sloping down behind it.  Tour Edge was clever in their color choice because the large black section becomes largely invisible when you’re playing (see the pictures above versus below).

The Iron-Wood does have a fair amount of offset, but it’s less than I expected.  Its large face and massive sole made me feel like I couldn’t miss .  The only thing I didn’t like is that this club really wants to sit shut at address.  I had to be aware of holding the face square before taking my grip.

In the bag, the Iron-Wood has the appearance of a hybrid.  The sole is tastefully branded, and Tour Edge even includes a woven headcover to keep it free from bag chatter.

Sound & Feel

At impact, the HL4 Iron-Wood is more iron than wood or hybrid, but it is a blend.  The sound of contact is quiet and mid-pitch, a small “click.”   It sounds fast but not explosive.

The one predictable downside to a club this forgiving is that it’s hard to feel mishits.  If you put one way on the toe or heel, you’ll know, but small misses are covered up.  There’s almost no change in impact sound regardless of strike quality.

Performance

The Tour Edge HL4 Iron-Wood is more forgiving than the grandmother you see twice a year .  It barely matters what kind of swing you make: the ball is going to get airborne and it’s going a long way.

At the heart of the Iron-Wood’s performance is the wide, heavy sole.  One advantage of the wide sole is that it doesn’t want to dig.  Yes, you can still hit a fat shot, but unless you swing it like an ax, the sole wants to work out of the turf.  Putting so much weight low also makes this club very high launching.  I’ve never hit a club that sends the ball this far and makes the ball land so softly .

My only word of warning is that this club does prefer going left.  For a lot of players, that’s a huge benefit – it will fight their slice.  For the hooker, this club is still very playable, but you do need to be aware of the possibility of the big left.

With the entire HL4 line, Tour Edge is making custom fitting (length, shaft flex, grip size) available at an affordable price.  The HL4 line also offers unprecedented flexibility in creating an iron set .  Tour Edge offers the HL4 hybrid from 3I-6I, an entire set of Iron-Woods all the way from 3I to lob wedge, and a standard iron set.  However you put your set together, it will making the game easier.

Whether you’re looking to put together an entire easy-to-hit set, doing a combo set, or just replacing a rarely-used long iron, the Tour Edge HL4 is a great choice.  It’s incredibly easy to hit and at just $79, it won’t break the bank.

Tour Edge HL4 Iron-Wood Price & Specs

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30 Comments

Sounds like a easy driving iron to hit… If you’re other clubs have little offset, and this one has more. Would you tend to pull it more because of the offset.

That’s a possibility. It depends how the given player reacts to offset and the club’s weight and shaft.

I’ve really been wanting to try one of these iron-woods. The price is reasonable and the custom fit process makes it very attractive.

I played the geneation before these. The HL3. These are very similar except the back of the club on the HL3 was rounded instead of concave. They are very good clubs and like he said, very forgiving. I bought a full set and found them very easy to use. I wanted forgiveness as I was coming back to the game after years away. I have since moved to a more traditional iron set, Callaway Apex, but still game a Tour Edge putter. These are solid clubs at a great price. Highly recommended.

These clubs work well off of bare lies. I mix the 5 and 6 with my mizuno jpx 900’s during the summer when we have grass and play the full set during the winter months

I am a big fan of the HL3/4 line. Out of frustration with my hybrids I gave the HL3 #3 ironwood a try last year and it has saved my game. Since then I added the demo HL4 #6 and plan to also get the #5.

Bought one to fill a gap in my bag and couldn’t be happier! Easy to hit, flies straight and goes the distance I was looking for, and .. all at a really great price! Great long iron replacement or for those who don’t like hybrids. Oh, and, the stock Mamiya shaft .. at least for me, a regular recreational hacker .. works well, too. #SecretGiveaway4

I purchased the whole set. My first round I had 4 birdies on the back 9.. Don’t make such a big deal of offset. I carry a 4 handicap and the offset never makes me pull the ball left. If you want to go low? Put your ego away and play a CLUB THAT WILL LOWER YOUR SCORES AND BRING MORE FUN TO THE GAME!!

Hi Matt, currently a 16 handicap and thinking of the Tour Edge HL4 2 18 Degree Iron Wood or the Ping G700/710 in a 4 Iron Power Spec 18.5 Degree to fill a hole in my bag mainly to be used of the tee in tight fairways. Having reviewed them both, would you have any recommendations?

I haven’t hit the new G710 yet (they’re on their way). Between the G700 and the HL4 Iron-Wood, I would ask you how much do you want something that looks more like an iron. If you want the bigger head, the HL4 is great. If you really want an iron, you need to go with the G700. The other element in this is that the HL4, especially with its graphite shaft, is much easier to get airborne.

Thanks for the update and comparison on the G700 and HL4. I’m a 14 handicap and have no problem launching irons/hybrid and if anything launch them too high. Ideally just looking for a driving iron off the tee and at the moment is a choice of the G700 4 iron in power spec 18.5 degree, Ping G410 Crossover 2 iron 17 degree or the HL4 in 2 iron wood 18 degree. Just trying to getting opinions of what you think is better really?

There’s no objective “better,” it’s really just a matter of what works best for you. All three options are high quality and will work well if they’re fit correctly.

For someone that is struggling with traditional irons (shanking constantly), would these be an alternative? I love hitting my callaway XR 3 hybrid

Because of the offset in these clubs, I’m not sure they’d be the best quick fix for a case of the laterals.

How does the HL4 compare to the Cleveland Launcher HB Turbo irons ?

I haven’t hit the HB Turbo irons, so I can’t offer a comparison.

Hi, I have tour edge Bazookas. Looking at getting the hl4s. My current irons are 3,4,5 hybrids and the rest irons. The iron hybrid set includes 2 iron woods (6 & 7). I’m not sure what those are or if I need them. I was also told I should steel shafts not graphite. Not sure why, wouldn’t graphite be better. I play 2-3 times every 2 weeks and have been avg. 105 over my last 4 rounds. Any input would be much appreciated. Hope to purchase this week.

I would suggest finding a Tour Edge fitter so you can test both the graphite and steel shafts.

When hitting the hl4 irons .do you need to open the face because of the offset

I did not, I just understood that the shot pattern would be a bit further left than normal.

Thanks! I have it narrowed down to the Tour Edge HL4, Callaway Rogue X and the Taylor Made M6. All hybrid sets. What are your thoughts on all 3. Do you like one over the other. My swing speed is around 84. Also I’ve noticed, most sets now have a a 4 & 5 hybrid but, no 3 hybrid. Why is that?

I can only assume that OEMs are designing their sets to match the preferences of the majority of consumers. We have reviews of all the irons and hybrids that you listed here on the site. Beyond that, I can only recommend that you get fit so that you find the set that works best for your swing.

I got a 6 and 7 ironwood. The courses i usually play have elevated greens and my approach shots from 140 to 160 were usually short in the bunker or too hot slipping across the green and off the back. But, I cant hit these ironwood consistantly. I think I should hit them like an iron but at address they look like a hybrid and I sweep them and get nothing.

That’s understandable, a lot of people have trouble trying to not “pick” a hybrid.

Hi, went to get fit and hit some clubs at 2 places. Short story, keeping my irons but, purchased the M6 driver and will purchase a 3 wood. I was hitting well, 15 -20 more yards Question; I was getting a high launch angle. Even after lowering the ball. The driver had the atmos orange 5R. Would I be better off with the atmos black 6 Which is supposed to have a lower launch? Thoughts? Thanks!

If you were getting 15-20 more yards, why would you worry about the launch angle being too high?

Thanks so much for your review! Got a great deal on these with a custom length. My length is usually +.5 because I’m a taller player. Previously, I was also playing a higher loft (+2) to get the ball airborne. Since these seem to do that more naturally and I was prob getting too much loft previously, I am hoping these will be a better fit and more forgiving. Really am interested to see the flight pattern since I had a terrible slice (still do with driver), but since taking a lesson, I am pulling irons to the left pretty consistently with a regular hook. Might be time for another lesson!

I’ve been hitting Ping G-15 Hybrids; 17, 20, and 23 degrees for years but I am now looking at more modern clubs. I carry no fairway woods. The G-15’s look more like todays Tour Edge Iron Woods. I am comfortable with the large offset and look of the G-15’s. I’ve tried conventional hybrids but tend to have more mishits. Would the HL4 iron woods be as long and as foregiving as the G-15’s I currently use? The G-15’s are still very popular as evidenced by how hard it is to find used ones for sale. I’ve lost a few over the years because I often use them for chipping around the green. I currently use a 12 degree HL4 offset driver.

Your thoughts?

I would offer my stock advice: try them, and some other options, in a fitting. See what can outperform you current clubs and go with that.

I have really tried to hit a fairway wood – 3 or 5 – and I have hybrids 4,5 and 6 but I hit the ball the best with Tour Edge hybrid irons. I have a full set – 2 thru 9 and a pitching wedge. I also have a driver and a putter in my bag. Thats all I need for a relaxing round of golf.

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Tour Pro Iron Distances

By huntdog99 March 21, 2011 in Tour Talk

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[quote name='ast78' timestamp='1302150872' post='3128686'] [quote name='SCGolfer85' timestamp='1302110900' post='3126095'] [quote name='ast78' timestamp='1302106647' post='3125855'] Alot of the PGA guys are freaky long. The distances in GD are their 80-90% swings, most of them have resreve in teh tank. 90% of the amatuers who think they are as long as the tour pros are not, the other 10% maybe but consistency makes a big difference. As far as "delofting" irons at impact... what does that mean? if you strike it properly the loft is the loft, should phil mickelson be cupping his wrist at impact to make a 7 iron play to the same loft as 20 handicap... makes no sense at all. If you go to a tour event you will see these guys are long! if you never been or never played with a tour pro then dont say you dont beleive it. [/quote] Well please enlighten us then with a little story. I have been to a lot of PGA events and more often then not the commentators get the clubs right. At no point in the golf digest article does it say (Distances shown are 80% of their full swing). Your distance is your distance, andybody can squeeze our another 10 yards if they really want to. It's pretty common for tour pros to not swing out of their shoes with their irons and no most amateurs can't squeeze out 10 ids on command, give me a break. I can hit my PW 150 yards if a really want to. Guess how many times i have hit my PW 150 yards in the last year? Maybe twice. There are very few instances when i would actually attempt to do that. I hit my PW 140 with a full swing, if a standard full swing is 90% exertion, then so be it. Pretty much any good golfer doesn't go around the course trying to max out their clubs on every shot, that would be ridiculous. You sound like one of the guys that hits career shot x distance, perfect wind, downhill, then says oh that's how far I hit it. Chances are you don't hit pw 150 you hit it 140, the 150 was the exception not the rule, but hey if selling it to yourself as the rule makes you a better golfer , cheers to you. Just my 2 cents "Tournament golf, at it's highest level, is a game of precision" Jack Nicklaus. [/quote] [/quote] Did you even read what I wrote? I CLEARLY stated i hit my PW 140.

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Mar 21 2011

[quote name='ast78' timestamp='1302150150' post='3128654'] [quote name='jones137' timestamp='1302108592' post='3125954'] [quote name='ast78' timestamp='1302106647' post='3125855'] Alot of the PGA guys are freaky long. The distances in GD are their 80-90% swings, most of them have resreve in teh tank. 90% of the amatuers who think they are as long as the tour pros are not, the other 10% maybe but consistency makes a big difference. As far as "delofting" irons at impact... what does that mean? if you strike it properly the loft is the loft, should phil mickelson be cupping his wrist at impact to make a 7 iron play to the same loft as 20 handicap... makes no sense at all. If you go to a tour event you will see these guys are long! if you never been or never played with a tour pro then dont say you dont beleive it. [/quote] I have played with tour pro's and I've never seen any human being hit a 200 yard 8 iron....I've seen some bad amateurs blade an 8 iron that far. [/quote] In flat conditions no wind etc yeah that would be tough but to doubt how far some tour pros hit it is ridiculous, there's sone sensationalization but some guys flat out move it. Tiger said yesterday in his press conference that woodland can carry it 330, that's ridiculous. [/quote] You're right, it's ridiculous to doubt what you hear on tv........

Titleist 915D2 9.5* Rogue Black 95MSI 60S Callaway XHot Pro 15* Project X 6.5 Mizuno MP Fli Hi 2 Iron C-Taper X Bridgeston J40CB 3-PW Project X 6.0 Ping Anser 54*,60* Project X 6.0 Taylormade Imola 8 35"

[quote name='HCEG1' timestamp='1302114865' post='3126318'] [quote name='neil112' timestamp='1301914490' post='3116551'] would be interesting if we could get specs on leftys lofts aswell,but still i think theres cases for both types of golfers busting it as my mate [b]yasin ali [/b]a pro who has been trying to make it out in asian tour ,now when i was playin a europro event he told me nike fitted him up for a 11.5 degree driver and [b]he[/b] [b]is pretty much casey/tiger distance maybe longer[/b] .i myself tend to hit a bit on the upswing with my driver so i like a little less loft but id prefer to use higher loft when my mechanics get slightly better because it allows you to shape shots better.lefty seems the same i here hes busting 5.5 or 6.5 degree drivers .watney i think uses 11 degree driver cause these guys now are taught more about angles and rotation and getting more over the ball and not hanging back thats why you see phil lashing at it and nick in the right position just to compress it .a friend of mine last year was struggling mechanically and his coach started getting him a bit more correct at impact and not hanging back from the inside on the way down ,anyway he was a good player before good ballstriker to give you and idea we went to play forest of arden a serious tour quality course in the uk and off the back sticks he shot one under in winterish conditions so he can really play.but now hes made these changes he just flushes it i mean the sound now is just total compression and he looks like he actually got slower more rythmical.and after he made the changes he is hitting the ball as far or futher in the winter as he was in the summer to give you an example he told me at brocket hall another track in the uk the last hole is 580 yrd they were playing in the dark and he hit driver then pitched 3 wood from 245 on the green .these guys on the tour who are getting taught now just are mechanically sounder. [/quote] Please.... I've seen Yasin in Dubai several times & he couldn't live with Casey or Tiger Last time I saw him he was playing with Alex Charawani, an amateur from Abu Dhabi, who was 15 yds past him most of the time [/quote] well on the europro when he was playing there wernt many who could get 30 yards within him so he must have lost some legnth ,by the way who are you are you a pro be nice to know.

[quote name='SCGolfer85' timestamp='1302180371' post='3129195'] [quote name='ast78' timestamp='1302150872' post='3128686'] [quote name='SCGolfer85' timestamp='1302110900' post='3126095'] [quote name='ast78' timestamp='1302106647' post='3125855'] Alot of the PGA guys are freaky long. The distances in GD are their 80-90% swings, most of them have resreve in teh tank. 90% of the amatuers who think they are as long as the tour pros are not, the other 10% maybe but consistency makes a big difference. As far as "delofting" irons at impact... what does that mean? if you strike it properly the loft is the loft, should phil mickelson be cupping his wrist at impact to make a 7 iron play to the same loft as 20 handicap... makes no sense at all. If you go to a tour event you will see these guys are long! if you never been or never played with a tour pro then dont say you dont beleive it. [/quote] Well please enlighten us then with a little story. I have been to a lot of PGA events and more often then not the commentators get the clubs right. At no point in the golf digest article does it say (Distances shown are 80% of their full swing). Your distance is your distance, andybody can squeeze our another 10 yards if they really want to. It's pretty common for tour pros to not swing out of their shoes with their irons and no most amateurs can't squeeze out 10 ids on command, give me a break. I can hit my PW 150 yards if a really want to. Guess how many times i have hit my PW 150 yards in the last year? Maybe twice. There are very few instances when i would actually attempt to do that. I hit my PW 140 with a full swing, if a standard full swing is 90% exertion, then so be it. Pretty much any good golfer doesn't go around the course trying to max out their clubs on every shot, that would be ridiculous. You sound like one of the guys that hits career shot x distance, perfect wind, downhill, then says oh that's how far I hit it. Chances are you don't hit pw 150 you hit it 140, the 150 was the exception not the rule, but hey if selling it to yourself as the rule makes you a better golfer , cheers to you. Just my 2 cents "Tournament golf, at it's highest level, is a game of precision" Jack Nicklaus. [/quote] [/quote] Did you even read what I wrote? I CLEARLY stated i hit my PW 140. [/quote] you hit your wedge 96 yrds flat out ive seen you play of the red tees .man up dude

Go to a PGA tour event and spend 15 minutes at the range. Two things stick out like a sore thumb, 1. how smooth and in control they swing, 2. how long the ball stays in the air. These guys murder the ball and until I saw it in person, I really couldn't believe it either.

I agree with the guy who mentioned the lofts of todays clubs. Manufactures have been delofting for years so not totally apples to apples vs a few years ago. That said, they are freaks and can certainly hit it a long arse way. I feel like I can move the ball pretty solidly (5-iron - 205yds) but not like these guys...

• 2 weeks later...

Interesting thread... I often wonder how I compare too. The best numbers shown in this thread seems to be spot on with most my clubs. For record, all my clubs are +1/2 - not sure how much of a difference that makes. Some basic distances (normal conditions, flat ground): PW: 150 6I: 200 2I: 245 3W: 290 D: 320 Recently I have been getting some lessons and the main thing my pro wants me to work on is cutting these distances down to gain more control. We have been working working on shortening my swing and lowering trajectories - he keeps referring to Luke Donald's swing. From what we've worked on so far I'm only giving up 10-15 yards per club and control is definitely better. Anyway, I think the point here is that there is a big difference between how far pros can hit and how far they want to it. I am finally realizing that hitting a PW 150 sounds nice, but if I can hit a 9 iron with a more controlled swing and be closer to the pin, I'd be an idiot not to. Loved watching Gary at the Masters by the way... he is a beast.

I hit my 670 pw close to 150 and I hit my burners close to 150 what's all this about lofts deloft garbage is for the birds. If you have a good iron swing (hitting down on the ball) your irons will fly longer. I have seen players hitting 5 irons on an approach from the same distance while I am hitting a 9 iron , that shocked me more than anything to do with the stronger lofts on the new irons. Phil during the Houston Open hit a 9 iron 185 down wind to set up birdie to end his third round.

XR 9.0 Oban Kiyoshi Tour LTD 70 Stiff Xhot 3 Deep 14.5 Project X 6.0 Xhot Pro Hybrid 16,18 Project X 6.5 Cobra Amp Forged KBS Tour +S 4-P Ping Anser Circa 1972 (Mint) CG10 58 Lob wedge, CG10 50 gap wedge

As has been mentioned above that many of the PGA players have stronger lofts on their clubs, and it seems that many of them have swings that further deloft the club. As per Johnny Miller they are hitting it on the 2nd to 3rd groove from the bottom of the club face and reducing the effective loft of the club even more. The problem that I see in that approach is that as you continue to deloft irons, either through a stronger loft on the club to begin with or delofting during the swing, the ball flight becomes lower and lower. Longer but lower and spin alone is not sufficient to stop the ball on some of the greens that they play on that are so fast and hard. I've asked a lot of lower handicap lads if they had to hit a 8 iron onto a hard fast green which would be the easiest shot and easier to control, a spinner or a high ball, the answer.......hit it high.

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[quote name='ccm241' timestamp='1303327687' post='3171325'] Your definitely right, but people love the long ball. Same deal as baseball, except our sport has less steroids. [/quote] Baseball brings up an interesting analogy..... I'd bet that most of us have thrown a baseball and hit one. We accept the fact that there are a very small percentage of people that can throw a baseball at 90+ mph or hit a baseball 400+ feet..... why is it so hard to believe that pro golfers can vastly out perform all but a very small percentage of us?

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I think the commentators on TV have a vested interest to make the tour players super-human. I think that's why you'll hear Jonny Miller matter of factly claim that so and so has 210 to the front of the green and is hitting an 8-iron. Its all BS for TV. The guy probably had 150 if you GPSed it. These guys are not super-human. With only few exceptions the PGA pros hit the ball no farther than the scratch players and young low handicap players in your area. The real difference between PGA tour players is their performance under fire, not their distance.

Another difference between the tour distance and say the lower HC distances is consistency. The lower cap can hit and a seven iron up to 200 yards just not all the time every time. If they could they would be on tour. I don't doubt that there are misconceptions of TV commentators and certainly it's hard to judge the hole elevation and wind conditions while watching it on TV.

I followed Phil M a few years ago at Pebble. The weather was nice, but the fairways were a little wet and not rolling. So basically guys were going for carry. There's a par 4 on the back 9 that is easy to follow the group and pace off distance... Phil's drive carried with no roll to 275 out with a driver, no wind.

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[quote name='4Par' timestamp='1303526205' post='3178219'] [quote name='ccm241' timestamp='1303327687' post='3171325'] Your definitely right, but people love the long ball. Same deal as baseball, except our sport has less steroids. [/quote] Baseball brings up an interesting analogy..... I'd bet that most of us have thrown a baseball and hit one. We accept the fact that there are a very small percentage of people that can throw a baseball at 90+ mph or hit a baseball 400+ feet..... why is it so hard to believe that pro golfers can vastly out perform all but a very small percentage of us? [/quote] I also think this in an interesting analogy and it makes sense to me. Despite being of similar stature, I totally understand that I can't throw a ball as hard as Tim Lincecum and I never thought that difference was out of the ordinary. There is "something" about Phil where he can hit an 8 iron 180 yards. I don't think it can all be chalked up to differences in lofts. A lot of it is natural ability and a lot of it is technique. Along with the baseball analogy, we can't all throw a baseball 90+mph, but I'd be willing to bet that with a source of quality instruction and improved mechanics, most people could probably squeeze another 3-5mph out of their fastball, even if it tops out at 60mph. The same is true with ball striking and gains in distance. It will plateau to a point even if technique is spot on- the rest is natural ability.

Golfunaddict

My fave so far this year... a clip showing Alvaro Quiros hitting a knockdown PW 185 yds on a par 3. Or this one..Quiros, incidentally, hit a 5-wood second shot over the green at the 667-yard par-5 16th hole on Friday.

i am amazed at the number of members on this forum that ave 320 off the tee..lol i am 6'4 245 pound ex pro athlete and i cant do that nor does anyone at the 2 clubs i belong to. i have been to tour events. tbh i was not at all impressed with power. i was impressed with the swings and the consistency. i have played rounds with two current touring pros. bottom line, we dont have and most of us cant get what they're hitting. i believe better equipment and slightly stronger lofts along with better balls are leading to those 180 yd 8 irons.

Excelsior75

[quote name='blies' timestamp='1303793265' post='3186326'] i am amazed at the number of members on this forum that ave 320 off the tee..lol i am 6'4 245 pound ex pro athlete and i cant do that nor does anyone at the 2 clubs i belong to. i have been to tour events. tbh i was not at all impressed with power. i was impressed with the swings and the consistency. i have played rounds with two current touring pros. bottom line, we dont have and most of us cant get what they're hitting. i believe better equipment and slightly stronger lofts along with better balls are leading to those 180 yd 8 irons. [/quote] Well, the fact that you're "6'4 245 pound ex-pro athlete" - I am not sure if that translates over to golf? Some guys on the Tour are probably half the size of you and still get great distances. I'm 6'3", 190lb, but I am also 39 years old so I know full well the elasticity / suppleness / fast-twitch fibres, etc in my limbs are slower and slowing down with every passing year...so the fact I can consistently carry my 8-iron 140yds and my 5-iron 175 yds sits fine with me. I've lost count the amount of times I've hit a great drive 250-260 yds or on the rare occasion, 270 yds only for me to fail on my 2nd-shot and make a bogey or worse. On the golf-courses we play...distance means [i]nothing[/i].

anyone who has ever watched Jeff Sluman knows that distance isn't required for a major championship victory. or Pavin. Or Zach Johnson. Or or or or....

[quote name='ben w' timestamp='1303845813' post='3187600'] anyone who has ever watched Jeff Sluman knows that distance isn't required for a major championship victory. or Pavin. Or Zach Johnson. Or or or or.... [/quote] what are the odds of slu or pavin winnning on a us open track at 7800 yrds pls its a different game now.im play minitour in uk and at my track where i practice they have a par 3 which is 270 and they can stretch it to 285-290 pin at the back ,i play with some half descent ball strikers who hit a driver to about the front of the yellows ,and i hit 3 wood to the centre off the white 15 yards futher back .another example a longish par for around 435 im flicking a half wedge or a big sand wedge other even good pros maybe hitting 8-9 iron .im not saying anyone cant win cause short game putting counts for so much its unreal but man for man on a course like bethpage from the tips us open id take a dustin over slu or pavin.

there are always exceptions to the rule. every course doesn't feature 280 yard par 3s, just a couple. I'd vouch to say there are a lot MORE "short" courses than brutally long ones.

• 5 weeks later...

Show me a US Open course 7,800 yds with Jaime Sadlowski hitting it 400 and 260 5 irons and I will put my house on Corey Pavin drumming him. Corey would be 130 yds behind him but Corey would be 10 shots better per round. I will take down the middle and great short game and putter over brute power anyday. Thank you, CASE CLOSED! Distance does mean nothing unless you have a D hitting into a Grid for money.

[quote name='shadowCLV' timestamp='1306468073' post='3265965'] Show me a US Open course 7,800 yds with Jaime Sadlowski hitting it 400 and 260 5 irons and I will put my house on Corey Pavin drumming him. Corey would be 130 yds behind him but Corey would be 10 shots better per round. I will take down the middle and great short game and putter over brute power anyday. Thank you, CASE CLOSED! Distance does mean nothing unless you have a D hitting into a Grid for money. [/quote] And Quiros , Jason Days and Martin lairds of the world would demolish pavin on a 7600 yd course . Distance means a lot a for tour player where the difference between short game is not as much as between sadlowski and pavin. Two weeks ago , one of the D1 college bomber shot 68 on a 7600 yard course in 30 mph wind at regional US open qualifier, where all the country club scratches i know (mostly 250-270 off the tee) did not even send their entry. That 's why Brian gay ,corey pavin and stricker are not in contention day in day out. 7600 yard course turns into a monster on a windy day and you need length. Tour player have length 180yd 8 iron is for real....

Its all TV hype. The tv announcers pull yardages out of their a$$es.

[quote name='Ezgolfer' timestamp='1306469209' post='3266006'] [quote name='shadowCLV' timestamp='1306468073' post='3265965'] Show me a US Open course 7,800 yds with Jaime Sadlowski hitting it 400 and 260 5 irons and I will put my house on Corey Pavin drumming him. Corey would be 130 yds behind him but Corey would be 10 shots better per round. I will take down the middle and great short game and putter over brute power anyday. Thank you, CASE CLOSED! Distance does mean nothing unless you have a D hitting into a Grid for money. [/quote] And Quiros , Jason Days and Martin lairds of the world would demolish pavin on a 7600 yd course . Distance means a lot a for tour player where the difference between short game is not as much as between sadlowski and pavin. Two weeks ago , one of the D1 college bomber shot 68 on a 7600 yard course in 30 mph wind at regional US open qualifier, where all the country club scratches i know (mostly 250-270 off the tee) did not even send their entry. That 's why Brian gay ,corey pavin and stricker are not in contention day in day out. 7600 yard course turns into a monster on a windy day and you need length. [b][i]Tour player have length 180yd 8 iron is for real.... [/i][/b][/quote] I dont know about that. It's for real for a handful of tour players, i.e. DJ, Quiros, Phil sometimes, Laird, Day are a 180yd 8 iron. I do think sometimes think the clubs/yardage are "talked up" for the wow factor on TV and something I dont hear spoken of much, clubs are bent a degree or 2 stronger, etc.

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tembolo1284

[quote name='HCEG1' timestamp='1301890665' post='3116270'] [quote name='bigslick7878' timestamp='1301885414' post='3116031'] [quote name='creeder06' timestamp='1301874814' post='3115463'] [quote name='neil112' timestamp='1301819565' post='3114009'] [quote name='HCEG1' timestamp='1301813381' post='3113979'] Lefty's a freak with his iron distances, but with the strong lofts he uses, eg 4 iron at 17* & a PW at 45*, & shafts an inch longer, his irons are at least a club stronger than most [/quote] is this serious he plays his 4 at 17 degrees damn thats my old school mizuno 1 iron loft.still i think sommeone like nick watney impresses me more tecnically playing weaker lofts but much more advanced swing mechanics and dustin they really have the modern compressing move .phils more a hang back old school guy so i could see him jacking up the lofts to bust it those yardages.man phil looks so good at 3/4 though so much control i think lefty could suprise a few people when he ages a little more maybe his swing might get naturally shorter then he would just drive the ball within himself interesting thought which ive always pondered looking at sneads swing and the longivity of his career [/quote] again I dont know where people get these numbers 17* 4 iron (what a joke). I would like to see proof of that. I would be willing to bet that it is actually somewhere around 21-24 like alot of 4 irons out there. It is just easy to say this when there are so many that can not comprehend a 200 yard 7 iron. [/quote] [b]No one has a 4 iron at 17* that is ridiculous[/b]...BUT all the irons these days are lofted a club longer than they used to be minimum. You know what my 4 iron loft is? 26* Good luck finding a set made today that has a loft that high, it aint happening. Back in the late 90's all the manufacturers started doing this for marketing purposes and to make people think they magically hit it longer with their clubs. it soon became accepted as the nrm and here we are today with 46* pitching wedges. If you take a few degrees of loft and added shaft length that taller guys like Mickelson have you can gain 15 yards on a club easily. That "200 yard 6 iron" is more like a 200 yard 4.5 iron in reality. I still remember marveling at how long I hit my original Burner irons back in the day, only to realize that a lot of that had to do with the fact the PW was 45* and I was really hitting a 9 iron. [/quote] I thought I'd get a few people to bite at that..., LOL His 4 [i]wood[/i] (when he carries it) Has 17 degrees of loft Lefty's lofts and [i]average[/i] distances are pretty much as below, as listed by him in Golf Digest IRONS 3-iron: 230, 21[degrees] 4-iron: 220, 23.5[degrees] 5-iron: 205, 27[degrees] 6-iron: 190, 29.5[degrees] 7-iron: 175, 32.5[degrees] 8-iron: 160, 37[degrees] 9-iron: 150, 41[degrees] PW: 135, 45[degrees] GW: 122, 50[degrees] SW: 110, 55[degrees] LW: 90, 60[degrees] [/quote] So his clubs are 1 club stronger lofted and who knows how much longer than mine. These are my lofts and length 3i - 23 - 38.75 4i - 26 - 38.25 5i - 30 - 37.75 6i - 34 - 37.25 7i - 38 - 36.75 8i - 42 - 36.25 9i - 46 - 35.75 pw - 51 - 35.5 sw - 56 - 35.25 lw - 62 - 35.25 So him being taller, having longer shafts, and being one of the best pros in the world...you realize why the guy hits it so much further than yourself when you compare. Even if I had his same specs...i'm sure the guy would still be a club or so longer. It's amazing...but don't think the guy hits it 2-3 clubs longer than you. LW

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[quote name='HCEG1' timestamp='1300772172' post='3076791'] Yeah, yeah, yeah...... Come to Scotland in a real wind and see how far (or not) you'll hit your irons I recall Tiger practising for the Open at carnoustie smoking a 4 iron into the breeze. How far did it go? come on, have a guess, 190? 180? 170? what, 160?............. Try [b]112[/b]! Here's a good extract of that practice round.... Woods, Pampling, Howell, Brett Quigley and Robert Karlsson were among those who left nothing to chance. Woods was on the first tee at 6 a.m., his typical starting time during practice rounds at the British Open. Once he made the turn, he must have wondered why he bothered. "One good thing about today is he's playing in a rain jacket," swing coach Hank Haney said. "He hasn't done that all year. The round was quiet and quick. The harder the wind blew, the more the rain blew sideways, the more fun they seemed to have. "Good thing we're playing today," caddie Steve Williams said. "It could be worse tomorrow." No one bothered practicing putts or chips around the greens because the green was too soft, and some of them had puddles on the edges. Woods was duly impressed when Pampling hit driver off the deck for his second shot (on a par 4), and doubled over in laughter when [b]Pampling hit a 2-iron to the 176-yard [/b][b]13th hole that didn't clear a bunker 150 yards in front of them[/b]. But the joke was on Woods at the 14th, a par 5 at 514 yards known for the Spectacle bunkers some 65 yards in front of the greens that players usually can carry easily. But not on this day. Woods hit driver in the fairway and hit 2-iron short of the Spectacles, just left in a sparse patch of rough. He swung hard and watched his third shot over the bunkers, and stopped in his tracks when he arrived at the green and found his ball a few yards from the green. "I didn't get there," Woods said incredulously. "With a 4-iron!" Even more stunning was the yardage he had with that [b]4-iron -- 112 yards [/b]to the front, 128 yards to the hole. At this point it became a quest, not just to finish the round, but neither wanting to yield anything to par. This became an impossibility, especially since Pampling hit 3-wood short of the green on the next hole. The day earlier, it was a 3-wood and a 7-iron. Memories of Muirfield for Woods? "Muirfield, by far, was worse than this," he said. "Do you realize it was 34 degrees that day?" [/quote] Just wanted to say that I just played both Muirfield and Carnoustie (last month), and the caddies all talked about how difficult the courses were in the wind. Muirfield was downright fair in the mostly windless/sunny conditions we had -- but, being right near the water like it is, I could imagine it being nearly impossible to get any distance out of anything. We did have a fair amount of wind at Carnoustie, which made a few of the 4's play like 5's, even for the best of players. Man, that course is brutal at the finish (and before it, too)! With the jacked up lofts of some clubs these days, and my swing being on or off on a given day (or hole!), and the wind and temps changing, I've come to grips with the idea that it doesn't matter what club I'm hitting (or what my playing partners are hitting), I should just use whatever I think will get the job done. Coming to that realization has relieved me of a lot of unnecessary concern for how long I "should" be hitting a given club, especially compared to others.

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Tee Precision

5 Iron Distance [Average to Tour Pro]

A 5 iron is one of the most versatile clubs in a golfer’s bag, and knowing the average distance a golfer can hit with it is crucial for a successful golf game. The average distance golfers hit a 5 iron is between 160 to 200 yards, depending on their skill level, swing speed, and ball speed. PGA Tour players, on the other hand, can hit their 5 iron up to 220 yards or more.

Table of Contents

Average 5 iron distance, factors that influence 5 iron distance, how to improve your 5 iron distance, who hits the farthest 5 iron.

For amateur golfers, hitting a 5 iron accurately and consistently can be challenging, but it is an essential skill to master. Many golfers struggle to hit their 5 iron as far as they would like, which can affect their overall golf game. Factors such as clubhead speed, ball speed, and launch angle all influence distance, and golfers who want more distance with their 5 iron need to focus on these areas.

While a 5 iron may not be the longest club in a golfer’s bag, it is a reliable option for approach shots and can be used for tee shots on shorter par 3s. Golfers who want to add distance to their 5 iron shots can try using a longer shaft, lowering the loft, or switching to a blade-style club. Overall, mastering the 5 iron distance can significantly improve a golfer’s short game and help them become a more well-rounded player on the golf course.

When it comes to golf, knowing the average distance a golfer can hit a 5 iron is essential. The 5 iron is a mid-range iron that is commonly used to hit approach shots to the green. It is a versatile club that can help golfers achieve longer, higher shots with good control and accuracy.

How is 5 Iron Distance Measured?

The distance a golfer can hit a 5 iron depends on several factors, including swing speed, ball speed, ball flight, and clubhead speed. The average distance golfers hit a 5 iron is around 160 yards for men and 140 yards for women. However, this distance can vary depending on the skill level of the golfer, the type of golf club, and the golf course conditions.

PGA Tour players, on the other hand, can hit a 5 iron much farther than the average golfer. The average PGA Tour player can hit a 5 iron around 200 yards. However, some of the best golfers can hit a 5 iron up to 230 yards or more.

It is important to note that the 5 iron distance can vary depending on the golfer’s swing and ball flight. For example, golfers with faster swing speeds can hit the ball farther than those with slower swing speeds. Similarly, golfers who hit the ball with a high launch angle and low spin rate can achieve more distance than those who hit the ball with a low launch angle and high spin rate.

Overall, the 5 iron is a versatile club that can help golfers improve their golf game. By knowing the average distance golfers hit a 5 iron, golfers can choose the right club for their shots and improve their chances of hitting the ball farther and with more accuracy.

Distance is an important aspect of the golf game, and the 5 iron is a critical club for many golfers. Several factors can influence the distance that a golfer can hit a 5 iron. Understanding these factors can help golfers optimize their 5 iron distance and improve their game.

Swing Speed and Clubhead Speed

One of the most critical factors that influence 5 iron distance is swing speed. The faster a golfer swings, the farther they can hit the ball. According to Golf Insider UK , the average swing speed for male golfers is between 90-100 mph, while the average swing speed for female golfers is between 60-70 mph. However, swing speed is not the only factor that influences distance.

Clubhead speed is another important factor that influences distance. According to Golfer Logic , the average clubhead speed for male golfers is between 105-110 mph, while the average clubhead speed for female golfers is between 85-90 mph. A faster clubhead speed can lead to more distance, but it also requires more skill and control.

Ball Speed and Smash Factor

Ball speed is the speed at which the golf ball travels after impact with the clubface. The faster the ball speed, the farther the ball will travel. According to Golfer Logic , the average ball speed for male golfers is between 150-160 mph, while the average ball speed for female golfers is between 120-130 mph.

Smash factor is a measure of how efficiently the energy from the clubhead is transferred to the ball. A higher smash factor means that more of the energy is transferred , resulting in higher ball speed and more distance. According to Honest Golfers , the average smash factor for a 5 iron is around 1.3.

Launch Angle and Spin Rate

Launch angle is the angle at which the ball leaves the clubface. A higher launch angle can result in more distance, but it can also lead to less accuracy. Spin rate is the rate at which the ball spins after impact. A lower spin rate can lead to more distance, but it can also lead to less control.

According to Golf Insider UK , the ideal launch angle for a 5 iron is between 18-22 degrees, while the ideal spin rate is between 5000-6000 rpm. However, these values can vary depending on the golfer’s skill level and swing characteristics.

Golf Ball and Golf Club

The type of golf ball and golf club used can also influence 5 iron distance. Different golf balls and clubs have different characteristics that can affect distance, spin, and launch angle. The type of golf ball can influence distance by up to 10 yards, while the type of golf club can influence distance by up to 20 yards.

It is important for golfers to choose a golf ball and golf club that is suited to their skill level and swing characteristics to optimize their distance and performance on the course.

For many golfers, hitting a 5 iron accurately and with enough distance can be a challenge. However, with a few adjustments to your swing technique and equipment, you can improve your 5 iron distance and accuracy.

Increasing Swing Speed

One way to increase your 5 iron distance is to increase your swing speed. PGA Tour players have an average swing speed of 110-120 mph, while the average golfer has a swing speed of around 90 mph. By increasing your swing speed, you can add more ball speed and distance to your shots.

To increase your swing speed, focus on developing a smooth and efficient swing. You can also try strength training exercises to build up your core and upper body muscles, which will help you generate more power in your swing.

Using Different Golf Clubs

Another way to improve your 5 iron distance is to experiment with different golf clubs. Some golfers may find that they hit a 4 iron or hybrid club more accurately and with more distance than a 5 iron. It’s important to find the right club for your swing and skill level.

You can also try adjusting the loft of your clubs. Lower lofted clubs, such as a 4 iron, can help you hit the ball farther. However, keep in mind that lower lofted clubs can also be more difficult to hit accurately.

Improving Technique

Improving your technique can also help you hit your 5 iron farther. Focus on maintaining good balance throughout your swing, and make sure you are making solid contact with the ball. You can also work on improving your ball flight and spin rate, which can help you hit the ball higher and farther.

Another technique to try is to focus on hitting down on the ball, rather than trying to lift it into the air. This can help you create a more penetrating ball flight and add more distance to your shots.

Overall, improving your 5 iron distance requires a combination of technique, equipment, and practice. By focusing on these areas, you can add more distance and accuracy to your golf game.

PGA Tour Players

PGA Tour players are known for their exceptional skills and abilities on the golf course. They have the advantage of years of experience, hours of practice, and access to top-of-the-line equipment. According to Golfing Focus, on average, PGA pros hit a 5-iron a carry distance of 200-215 yards. However, the distance can vary depending on the player’s swing speed, ball speed, and other factors.

LPGA Tour Players

LPGA Tour players are equally skilled, but they tend to hit the ball shorter than their male counterparts. According to Golf Digest, the average LPGA Tour player hits a 5-iron a carry distance of 155-175 yards. However, some players can hit the ball farther than others, depending on their swing speed and other factors.

Average Distance for Male and Female Golfers

For the average male golfer, the distance they hit a 5-iron is around 160 yards, while the average female golfer hits a 5-iron around 140 yards, according to Golf Storage Guide. However, these distances can vary depending on the golfer’s skill level, swing speed, and other factors. In conclusion, the distance a golfer hits a 5-iron can vary greatly depending on various factors such as swing speed, ball speed, and skill level. PGA Tour players tend to hit the ball farther than LPGA Tour players, while the average male golfer hits the ball farther than the average female golfer.

After examining the factors that influence 5 iron distance, it is clear that there are many variables that can affect a golfer’s ability to hit the ball consistently and accurately. Swing speed, clubhead speed, ball speed, and spin rate all play a role in determining how far a golfer can hit their 5 iron. Additionally, the type of golf ball, the loft of the club, and the golfer’s skill level can also influence distance.

PGA Tour players are able to hit their 5 iron an average of 195 yards, while amateur golfers typically hit their 5 iron between 140-160 yards. The average male golfer hits their 5 iron around 160 yards, while LPGA Tour players hit their 5 iron an average of 155 yards. It is important to note that these distances are just averages, and many golfers will hit the ball farther or shorter than these numbers.

For most golfers, the key to hitting their 5 iron consistently and accurately is to focus on good balance, a smooth golf swing, and proper club selection. By practicing regularly and working with a golf instructor to improve their swing, golfers can add distance and improve their overall game.

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for improving 5 iron distance, golfers can experiment with different clubs, balls, and swing techniques to find what works best for them. Whether you are a short hitter or a long hitter, adding a few extra yards to your 5 iron distance can help you take your game to the next level.

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Ultimate Golf Club Distance Chart for Seniors [All Skill Levels]

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Table of Contents

Regardless of age, any golfer’s shot distance is a significant concern. So a golf club distance chart for seniors holds the same importance at any age.

As we get older, our performance on the golf course naturally changes. You might control some elements to an extent through exercise and nutrition , but certain factors are part of aging.

So logically, you shouldn’t be comparing how you play to those who don’t experience the same limitations as you.

Senior golf has its standard for what poor or great performances are. You should judge your skill level based on your group. You can look at distance charts to get an idea of the average distance players in your category.

This article will give you the best golf club distance charts for seniors.

🏌️‍♂️ Read Next: 13 Best Golf Clubs for Seniors [Expert Buyers Guide]

Golf Club Distance Chart Utilization

Distance charts essentially give the average distance covered by a club. Different charts focus on variable factors such as gender, age, experience, etc.

A golf club distance chart shouldn’t be viewed as a benchmark. It’s a helpful tool to compare your performance realistically, considering limiting factors. So don’t sweat it if your numbers don’t match the charts.

The better approach is knowing your yardage rather than focusing on how far each club can go. Different people get different numbers for the same club, so while a 7 iron is going far for your friend, maybe your 5 iron covers the same ground.

What I’m stressing about is that it’s all relative. Contrary to popular belief, being a long-hitter doesn’t guarantee a lower score. It’s understandable why people assume that long shots travel a greater distance, possibly lowering your score.

But that’s just not written in stone. A short-hitter could outdo you. It’s just a matter of knowing yourself and your skill.

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Golf Distance Charts for Men & Women

First, we will look at the average distance that younger players of both genders cover. This gives an idea of how well a player can perform when all age factors are in their favor. 

You can take these numbers as the upper limit of how much yardage one can achieve.

Golf Club Distance Chart for Men

With experience, male golfers gain decent yardage in their shots. The more players practice, the higher they can take their swing speed, which is critical for covering long distances.

You can compare your performance with the table below (average golfer to pro).

Golf Club Average Distances of Women

For female players, the numbers are lower than for male players. Many factors come into play here, such as thinner and shorter clubs coupled with a slower swing speed. The distances covered are impressive nonetheless.

You can use the table below as a reference point for your yardage.

Golf Club Distance Charts for Seniors

Players who are 50+ in age fall under the Seniors category. They’re eligible to play in the Senior PGA Championship , on top of the PGA Tour .

Although they aren’t required to leave the PGA Tour, it’s clear that their performance will eventually fall behind over time than the younger players on the golf course. But that’s just how life goes.

Nonetheless, here’s a shocking fact. The world record for the longest drive is held by 64-year-old, Mike Austin . He hit a 515-yard drive in 1974! We didn’t even have the TaylorMade SIM 2 back then.

Regardless, there’s a significant gap in golf club distances among senior players. Those who play recreationally are shorter hitters compared to Senior PGA Tour players.

You can make the comparison through the table below.

Golf Club Distance Charts by Age | Drivers, Fairway Woods & Irons

Below you’ll find a breakdown of the average golf distance chart for irons and drivers by age.

While you may notice, there is a stark difference in average club distances between younger and senior players.  Professional golfers don’t rapidly lose their yardage because of old age.

Those who maintain their athleticism and continue playing stay in great shape. As Gary Player would agree, a lot can be done with a solid fitness routine. However, they’ll notice a slow dip in their numbers.

To understand the gradual shift in yardage, the table below shows the age-by-age decrease in shot distances.

Please note this golf club distance chart doesn’t account for whether a player is a professional.

Tips to Improve the Average Distance Golfers Hit

As a golfer, you can’t expect to stay on top of your game if you aren’t consistent. 

Many skills you learn will get rusty as the years go by. If you’re not paying attention, it can become harder to play as you used to.

To help you overcome your short yardage on the golf course, here are a few points you can focus on.

Read Next: Closed Coil Golf Swing for Seniors: 4 Quick Steps & Drills ⛳️

1. Use the Proper Golf Equipment for Senior Golfers

Your golf balls and clubs are both determinants of your performance. You should ensure you’re using the suitable fit for you and the level at which you play.

Sometimes, your previous club preference doesn’t give you the same results as it once did. This may be a sign to try other clubs and see if there is another that suits you better. The same goes for golf balls.

Having the right driver and irons is as important as possessing the right skills.

2. Improve Your Golf Grip & Posture 

To start, it’s essential to have the best golf grips for seniors .

As we age, a golfer’s grip and posture are often neglected parts of physical fitness. 

Players focus more on stamina, strength, and similar capabilities, but other factors equally influence their performance.

A good golf grip helps you transfer strength and control the ball. You may struggle with this at first, but it could be what’s holding you back.

As for posture, ensure that you’re standing as tall as you can and are bending from the waist, not the shoulders. You should also be careful about your alignment, which your posture can throw off.

⛳️ Read Next: 23 Best Golf Tips For Seniors to Enhance Your Game

3. Improve Your Golf Swing Speed

One of the many culprits for a shorter distance on your shots is your swing speed. This is essentially how fast your club moves before it hits the golf ball.

Your swing speed changes over time. In the table below, you can see what male and female golfers average at different ages.

As you can see, as we all age, we tend to have slower swing speeds. However, golf training aids and exercise can help with increasing swing speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far should a 60 year old man hit a golf ball.

According to the senior distance chart, a 60 year old man, should hit approximately 211 yards with his golf driver.

Final Thoughts | Golf Club Distance Chart for Seniors

The finest aspect of golf is that age is not a limitation. You grow as you go, adapting your expertise according to your circumstances.

Using a golf club distance chart for seniors as a reference, you can continue enjoying your game and be motivated to progress further.

If you are looking for motivation, check out Gary Player’s amazing fitness routine .

Related Senior Golf Articles

10 Best Golf Swing Tips for Seniors That Actually Work

13 Best Golf Clubs for Seniors in 2023 [Expert Buyers Guide]

Ultimate Guide to the Senior Golf Tour: 5 Major Tournaments

The 6 Best Golf Grips For Seniors In 2022

7 Best Drivers For Senior Women To Increase Distance in 2022

Erin has spent over 17 years as a healthcare executive working with seniors in nursing homes, skilled nursing, assisted living, and independent living communities. She also holds a Masters Degree in Social Work and other advanced degrees related to seniors.

Erin grew up playing golf in a family of golf fanatics. She started this site to help others add more enjoyment to the game of life through golf.

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1 thought on “Ultimate Golf Club Distance Chart for Seniors [All Skill Levels]”

thank you. some ideas and some information.

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