Our conclusions from a day testing hybrids

Everyone should be carrying a 23˚ hybrid

This really is the key loft for the average player as far as we are concerned. Investing in one of these is going to get the 3 and 4 irons out of your bag forever – and you will benefit from the results.

They are so powerful and so forgiving and often go as far as a stronger loft. And versatile too – you can use these from some pretty unappealing lies and still get a decent flight.

It will also plug the gap between a 5 iron and a 5 wood for most people – and leave you with a well-balanced set and even gapping.

Would a strong hybrid (19˚ or less) go any further for you?

In our experience the answer is often no. We’ve seen some fascinating results from the TrackMan launch monitor and time and again it tells us that the average player does not hit the ball any further with a 19˚ hybrid than he does with a 22˚.

And for those who are strong enough to hit the 19˚ further, they would not a 17˚ any further than that. Similarly, low ball hitters will often find that they need at least, say, 21˚ to get a decent flight. Give them a stronger loft and all that happens is that the total distance remains at a similar level – but the carry distance is shorter.

Remember, a flatter flight is desirable if your hybrid is a driving club and you regularly play in strong winds. But if you’ll use yours to hit into greens then a higher flight and with it a softer landing is crucial.

3˚ is not a big enough gap between hybrids

If you want to carry two or more hybrids – and increasing numbers of golfers are going down this route – we think you should look at a minimum gap of 4˚. Otherwise there just won’t be enough of a gap and you’ll effectively by carrying two clubs that do the same job.

Work out what you will use a hybrid for

If your hybrid is a get-out-of-trouble club then look at going for extra loft. This will really help if you’re using your hybrid to escape from heavy lies. Alternatively, if it’s a driving club you are looking for then a stronger flight and a deeper face might be what you need.
Remember, a flatter flight is desirable if your hybrid is a driving club and you regularly play in strong winds. But if you’ll use yours to hit into greens then a higher flight and with it a softer landing is crucial.

Shaft weight is extremely important

A heavier shaft on a hybrid can be desirable and help you feel like you have more control and consistency. On the other hand, a lighter shaft will offer a little extra zip through the ball and often helps increase the launch angle. A hybrid shaft can be anywhere between 60 and 100 grammes and you might be surprised by how completely different this can make a club feel.