Equipment: Callaway XR OS irons review

We tested the Callaway XR OS irons on the practice field at Moor Allerton in Leeds.

Data was captured using our SkyTrak launch monitor and we used non-premium balls.

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First impressions of the Callaway XR OS irons

Well the clue is in the name – these are over-sized game-improvement irons.

They are much bigger than the previous XR irons and are possibly the largest iron we have tested this year.

They’ve got loads of shelf appeal though and look really cool.

The previous XR irons were more aimed at the mid-handicappers and even the better players with the XR Pro version.

These look squarely aimed at those with a handicap of 16 or above or players who struggle to get their irons launching.

Technology in the Callaway XR OS irons

There’s a much wider sole than what we’ve seen previously which will help people get the ball in the air and offer more forgiveness right across the face.

The Callaway 360 Face Cup technology allows the face to flex and offer great ball speeds.

As you’d expect there’s also a high-launching shaft as the stock steel option.

Performance of the Callaway XR OS irons

What was very pleasing here was the sound and feel off the face. It’s a huge improvement on the original XRs which were very harsh. These have a much softer and sweeter feel.

They offer loads of confidence behind the ball, are incredibly easy to hit and are great fun to play with.

Number-wise they were hitting the distances we’d expect – 150 yards with a 7-iron. I wouldn’t say they were the longest irons we have hit but they are as user-friendly as it gets.

The 7-iron we hit has 31.5˚ of loft so isn’t quite as strong as others out there. But the numbers were very similar to other irons with stronger lofts.

Overall verdict on the Callaway XR OS irons

You have to say that these irons do everything that is expected of them.

Stylish, confidence-inspiring, easy to use, high-launching with good distance.

The sound and feel is an added bonus for me. When you strike one out of the middle it feels great and is other reason which makes these irons so much fun to play with.

They do launch nice and high too which will be ideal for those who struggling to get air time with their irons. They’ll give you a better chance of stopping it on the green too.

Yes they will be a bit chunky for some players but if you want to look down on something sleek these aren’t for you.

If you want a bit of help to make the game easier and more enjoyable, these irons should definitely be considered.

Details

SRP: £449.99 (5-PW)

For more visit the Callaway website HERE

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