pga tour average 5 iron

TrackMan Average Tour Stats

Tour stats include:

Club Speed, Attack Angle, Ball Speed, Smash Factor, Launch Angle, Spin Rate, Max Height, Land Angle and Carry.

TrackMan Average Stats Taken From The PGA TOUR

TrackMan LPGA Tour Average Stats

80 comments

So the average male Tour pro hits down on the ball slightly with the driver? Should attack angle vary with clubhead speed?

The attack angle for the pros varies on woods, but it’s more or less negative when it comes to hybrids and irons. For the average player, the attack angle on drivers varies and in general so should the ball that is hit from the ground always have a negative attack angle in order to get a better margin of error for the impact.

However, in order to get the longest carry possible, the ball should launch high with low spin. The optimal numbers are individual based on club speed – and that type of flight can easier be achieved if the spin loft is low together with a high dynamic loft. The more the attack angle is negative, then the higher the spin loft gets => the attack angle should be closer to 0 if anything IF the goal is to carry as long as possible.

But generally, the attack angle for irons should be from -2 – -5 for almost all players, but for drivers you can hit it further with a positive attack angle, no matter the club speed.

Niklas Bergdahl Support Manager EMEA & Asia

Can you send me the optimal numbers across the board that players and coaches should be looking for in lessons and trackman sessions

Strangely enough, with a driver you can achieve a carry of 300 vs 275 with the same clubhead speed of 113. Adam Young tries to get people to convert to this method. Attack angle = +8 degrees Launch angle = 19 degrees Backspin = 2,000 Smash Factor= 1.5

Hi. I can only confirm. I achieve those positive angles and l can carry the driver (9 degr loft) 245 yards with a club speed of 95mph. Rollout is average 20 yards.

No, it is 3° and that means the clubhead is movin upwards. – is downwards.

You are reading the LPGA (ladies) numbers Tim. The PGA (men) average is -1.3.

Looks like the average LPGA players trackman swing speed is more or less the same as an average 10 hcp male player. Though the ladies are a lot more skilled in hitting it on the right angles and in the right spot on the clubface. Would an average 10 hcp male player have a advantage or disadvantege using graphite shafts?

Harry, any player of any handicap can benefit from graphite shafts. More often than not, the memory in most players’ minds from graphite stems from a very long time ago when graphite was ONLY graphite. It was whippy, and not very accurate. Material advances and composite technology have nearly rendered steel obsolete. I say nearly, mind you. There are a number of outstanding graphite shafts out there that are super stable and responsive, enabling a lighter club and longer distance without sacrificing accuracy. Fujikura makes some really nice iron shafts that fuse both steel and graphite technologies called MCI. In fact, i have Fuji PRO 95i shafts in my irons and my iron game is better now than it ever was with steel. I’m a 3.5 index and relatively strong but it allows me to play all out without getting tired on the back 9 from heavy clubs. Being a club builder, i can tell you that in golf equipment there’s a trade-off in everything. wether it’s length, weight, or feel so your advantage or disadvantage is dependent on how precisely you build your piece of equipment.

Hey Chris thanks for the info below i find it very interesting. Curious do you have those same shafts in your wedges or do you have steel in your wedges? I played SteelFiber i95 shafts last year in all my irons including wedges. I liked them in my irons but i felt like it hurt my game in wedges. Do you have any thoughts on this? Thanks

Agreed. Shallow your angle of attack to match the LPGA players.

I have had a number of sessions on a Trackman, (the latest on Aug 22, 2015, at “Modern Golf” in Mississauga On.). My clubhead speed and distances are about the same as LPGA averages. I was doing wedge work, and see that for a pitching wedge, (48°), my angle of attack -about 7.5° – is n=much higher than LPGA average. My accuracy is good, (only 3 0f 19 shots more that 20′ away, and all when the face angle was over 4° closed). I’m thinking that I should weaken my left hand a bit, (it’s a little strong on pitch shots), and play the ball farther forward- 2″ ahead of centre. Am I on the right track, or will these changes introduce new problems?

I’m 74 years old, and am a long-time PGA of Canada member. Thanks for any feedback…. love Trackman outings.

I would recommend that you visit one of our certified coaches, he/she would be able to help you and find what numbers are best for you.

See our TrackMan Locator here.

I don’t disagree with these stats but I do it;s kinda weird. 87 miles mph with an 8 iron should produce 177 yards of carry not 160 that’s a lot of mph. Iv’e seen high school kids hit 9 iron 165 and they don’t swing 100 mph with a 9 iron. When I swing hard I hit my 8 iron 155 and my legit radar read 72 mph so logic would dictate at 88 mph you would get more like 180 yards carry again that’s a lot of mph.

Remember that’s a carry number not total distance. Also since the pros produce significant more back spin, their ball flight is higher, landing angle loftier producing minimum roll whereas your total distance might be benefiting from maximum roll. One more thing to check would be launch angle where you might be hitting a low ball flight to maximize distance which in my opinion is “cheating.”

The PGA Tour 8-iron goes 160 in the air for a couple of reasons. One, they usually hit weaker lofts than high school players (like I) do. Secondly, they spin their 8-iron at 7998 RPM to stop the ball on fast greens. I believe this is the combination that makes the 8-iron go so much shorter.

I’ve hit thousands of balls on Foresight simulators, and what I’ve found is that backspin significantly influences carry distance. Holding club head speed constant, greater backspin reduces carry distance on all clubs.

For mid-irons, I’d estimate that you lose roughly 5-7 yards of carry per 1,000 RPM in additional backspin. And with the driver it’s easily 10+ yards of carry lost per 1,000 RPM.

This explains why poorly struck balls will often fly as far, if not further, than a well-hit shot. The key to backspin is crispness of contact – a poorly struck shot simply won’t spin as much. Unless the impact is absolutely terrible, the lack of backspin on poorly struck shots will cause those balls to carry further than a well-struck ball. So if you’re flying balls over the green with your irons, the culprit could be too little backspin caused by poor contact, cheap balls, a dirty club face, etc.

I think this is also the key reason why fades don’t carry as far as draws. It’s not that a draw swing is any faster/more powerful – it’s simply that fades have more backspin due to the impact geometry/physics involved with that swing.

Now I may be wrong on some of this, so I’d love to get a true expert’s take.

One thing I forgot to add to my comment above is that you need a minimum of backspin on all golf shots just to get the ball up in the air. That may be 1,500 RPM for woods and maybe 3,000 for irons.

My point is that increasing backspin beyond this base level will generally reduce carry. For example, I can guarantee that increasing the backspin on your 7 iron from 5k to 7.5k will reduce your carry with that club, even if your swinging faster at 7.5k.

I totally disagree with your premise. Draws carrying further than fades? That makes no sense.

Bare in mind tour players play with proper golf clubs which are weak lofted so the people you see hitting a 9 iron further than tour average 8 it’s probably because that 9 iron is closer to a 7 iron loft

Spin determines weather you hit a draw or fade so logic would dictate distance will also be effected. In my experience draws do tend to be further for 2 reasons and both have to do with spin. With a draw you will usually get more roll out as well as flight because of the decrease in spin. This is especially true with a driver.

Depends what clubs you are using. There can be as much as 7 degrees of variation between a ‘standard’ loft on a 7 iron. If you’re playing the Callaway Mavrik irons, you’ll get 27 degrees of loft on a 7 iron. If you’re playing the Callaway Apex Pro then its 34 degrees. That’s a two club difference.

I was custom fit recently for the Apex 21’s and currently play Apex MBs. With the MBs my 7 iron has 34 degrees of loft and flies 165yds with 89mph average club head speed. Same swing with the Apex 21s (30 degrees of loft) flies between 177 – 180 yds. Big difference.

Larry , I would highly recommend you see Mark Evershed . Buy him lunch and get the answers your looking for .

Hi guys this was a recent session with a cobra 3 wood 16 deg loft.my question is my launch angle seems a little low ,interested in your thoughts .thanks Shot # Club Club Speed (mph) Ball Speed (mph) Smash Factor Launch Angle (degrees) Direction Back Spin (rpm) Carry Distance (yards) Total Distance (yards) 1 3 Wood 94 143 1.52 8.80 Straight 3874.00 215.00 232.00 2 3 Wood 98 148 1.51 9.10 Straight 4096.00 223.00 240.00 3 3 Wood 94 142 1.51 9.10 Straight 3904.00 213.00 230.00 4 3 Wood 94 143 1.52 8.80 Straight 3874.00 215.00 232.00 5 3 Wood 96 145 1.51 9.10 Straight 4000.00 219.00 236.00 6 3 Wood 94 143 1.52 8.80 Straight 3874.00 215.00 232.00 7 3 Wood 94 143 1.52 8.80 Straight 3874.00 215.00 232.00 8 3 Wood 93 141 1.52 8.80 Straight 3826.00 212.00 229.00 9 3 Wood 92 129 1.40 12.40 Straight 4138.00 190.00 207.00 10 3 Wood 94 142 1.51 9.10 Straight 3904.00 213.00 230.00 11 3 Wood 94 142 1.51 9.10 Straight 3904.00 213.00 230.00 12 3 Wood 94 143 1.52 8.80 Straight 3874.00 215.00 232.00 13 3 Wood 96 145 1.51 9.10 Straight 4000.00 219.00 236.00 14 3 Wood 93 140 1.51 9.10 Straight 3856.00 210.00 227.00 15 3 Wood 96 146 1.52 8.80 Straight 3970.00 220.00 237.00 16 3 Wood 92 140 1.52 8.80 Straight 3778.00 210.00 227.00 17 3 Wood 95 144 1.52 8.80 Straight 3922.00 216.00 233.00 18 3 Wood 96 145 1.51 9.10 Straight 4000.00 219.00 236.00 19 3 Wood 94 142 1.51 9.10 Straight 3904.00 213.00 230.00 20 3 Wood 91 137 1.51 9.10 Straight 3760.00 204.00 221.00 21 3 Wood 94 143 1.52 8.80 Straight 3874.00 215.00 232.00 22 3 Wood 95 144 1.52 8.80 Straight 3922.00 216.00 233.00 23 3 Wood 95 144 1.52 8.80 Straight 3922.00 216.00 233.00 24 3 Wood 96 146 1.52 8.80 Straight 3970.00 220.00 237.00 25 3 Wood 96 146 1.52 8.80 Straight 3970.00 220.00 237.00 26 3 Wood 96 145 1.51 9.10 Straight 4000.00 219.00 236.00 27 3 Wood 94 137 1.46 10.60 Straight 4054.00 204.00 221.00 28 3 Wood 94 143 1.52 8.80 Straight 3874.00 215.00 232.00 29 3 Wood 98 142 1.45 10.90 Straight 4276.00 213.00 230.00

What kind of balls were you using?

Brent. This was at a driving range with srixon range balls

Ok the one number that really stood out to me was the smash factor. Usually anything above a 1.50 indicates something is illegal. There’s a reason not even the PGA tour players aren’t averaging 1.50 off the tee. Other than that your numbers look good.

Brent what about the launch angle

Yes the launch is a little on the low side. But seeing how you’re still getting decent distance I wouldn’t worry too much about how it’s coming out. But try hitting down on the ball more to get it up in the air faster.

I frequently get above 1.5 on trackman with longer irons and my woods (I have raised this with your tech teams already). This is because your machine measures club speed just before impact and doesn’t detect acceleration through impact

Trackman doesn’t detect acceleration through impact on solidly struck shots so you can post smash factors above 1.5. It’s best to just rely on ball speed with Trackman

Brent in one of your comments you said my smash factor was high ,had a session last night at range and some of my smash factors were 1.53 is this something to try and change and if so how do I change it

Like you had said you were using range balls correct? If so the smash factor will be a little off since they aren’t a legal tournament ball. What the smash factor (as explained to me by the Carolinas PGA rules committee chairman) is, is a measurement of how well the ball comes off the face. There’s a specific calculation for it but I’m not positive of it and anything over a 1.50 usually is a tell tale sign that either the club or ball is illegal. What I would recommend doing is using the ball you would normally play a round with and get some readings off that ball.

I read not long ago that Rory Mcilroy had a smash factor of 1.53 as well . If Willie can hit it 380 the way Rory does, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Larry. I’m 55 years old 280 is my distance not 380 Like Rory

Ball speed divided by club head speed is smash factor

I’m currently doing my university project on green-side bunker shots, I was wondering if you have any shot data for a short bunker shot or flop shot? Thanks.

Sorry but we do not have any official data we can share, but it would be interesting to see your final research :)

Blair, My assumption would be that the cleaner a ball is picked out of a bunker the more spin it will have and vice versa. The more sand you use to move the ball the less spin.

Do you have TrackMan data for AoA and DL for greenside bunker shots?

Sorry we do not have any official bunker shot data.

In looking at the tour pro stats for men – the max height reading for all clubs is about 30 plus or minus 2. I am trying to understand how/why are the heights the same for all clubs? My assumption would be the more lofted the club the greater the height! Is 30ish the optimum figure for best distance? Because in my last stats my longest 9.5 degree driver shot was max height of 56!

Is there any data available from the Senior tour?

We do not have any official charts for the Senior Tour. But you can login on mytrackman.com and use the combine section and filter, to show only Senior Tour players.

Thanks Christian!

what month/year is this data from?

Is there any data on typical club path for a tour pro?

Can you please post stats for average path, club face, and face to path numbers for PGA tour?

Could you please post average path, club face, and face to path numbers for several top Tour Players?

Before all the hype about hitting up on the ball came about, I hit down on a driver anywhere from -2 to -4 degrees and swung 1-2 degrees left.

Once I started to try and swing up on it. I lost direction big time. An easy swing for me is 112, swinging hard at it I can get it up to 123. Does Trackman recommend those that have higher swing speeds to hit down on it for straighter direction?

There is no physics logic backing up that hitting up on the ball will give a decrease in accuracy. However to go from hitting down to hitting up you have made some changes to your impact obviously. The way you made the changes could well be the problem as this could have affected your impact location, swing path, clubface and the way you release the club

Can pga tour players carry the ball 293 yards.

A Question: Were some data change on this site? I ask because I’m quite sure to have read other data for the men’s driver trajectory. Am I wrong or can someone confirm this?

kindly zorro

Is my impression right, that the data for the men driver were changed from

[Daten alt: 112mph 165mph 11,2° 2685 31y 39° 269y] to [Daten neu: 113mph 167mph 10,9° 2686 32y 38° 275y] ?

Why did TM do that?

For the tour pro stats – mainly carry distance, launch angle and spin rate for the driver, you have the averages, could you supply the max and min (filtered for outliers)? I am going to run an experiment with Trackman at my golf academy and need a starting range for each item. The tour max and min range is a starting point versus having to create this from scratch.

Anyone know where I can find raw data of clubhead speed? It is for a College project. Thanks!

You know what would be great to see – average miss from target – left and right – for each club. Of course short and long from target matter as well, but solid contact isn’t really my issue – left and right misses is my challenge

I’m about a half club off of PGA Tour average distance wise. Technically I’m a 1 handicap, but more like 4 or 5 when the tourney pressure is on. I know from playing with better players the difference between me and them is pretty much how much more accurate they are from a left and right perspective.

You can find all this info from Mark Broadie. He has tracked all the shots on the us tour for years and also written a book Every Shot Counts about it

I have been playing Golf for less than 19 months. I must admit I was damn tired of the same Golf Lesson producing varying results with inconsistent instruction(s) which seemed contradictory to the previous lesson. I take Golf perhaps a little more serious than others and my “approach” to this game may be viewed as extreme due to my focus on Fitness/Strength Training combined with my Yoga and Nutritional regimen.

That notwithstanding I would like to formally THANK the Trackman Developers and Support Staff for FINALLY producing a “Standardized” curriculum eliminating the traditional random quick fixes and circumventing the often inconsistent and contradictory methods being taught today.

I currently own a Trackman 4 and although I DO NOT wish to teach, I am Certified as an Operator and successful in obtaining my Professional Level 1 & 2 Certifications and shortly will be submitting my Thesis to be considered for review. These Certifications have greatly assisted me in understanding Flight/Ball dynamics and greatly assists my Coach and I in our 4-5 hour daily Putting-Wedge-Iron-Wood and Driver Sessions providing the data necessary to produce a more consistent and …. I have a hard time with this next word…… F U N game. (There I said the word “fun” in the same sentence as “Golf.” I’m so proud of myself!!!

Seriously, I simply CANNOT thank Nathan Meyer for coming to my hometown and demonstrating the enormous benefit(s) of purchasing the Trackman 4 product.

Kym Fontana [email protected]

It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know you! Your work ethic, attitude, and kindness are all things that I can look up to. very excited for 2017 and I am looking forward to seeing you again soon!

-Nathan Meyer [email protected]

Are there numbers posted for an average 5 HCP player or 10 HCP player similar to the charts above for the ave tour player?

What is the #1 PGA Tour player in “Carry Distance” average carry distance??

I understand this data is pretty old, released soon after the time when trackman first came out. I’m sure things have changed since then. Any update?

Actually, we haven’t seen any huge changes over the past years, it’s more about roundings. For example, Avg. Club Speed for a driver: 2014: 113.0 mph 2015: 113.3 mph 2016: 112.9 mph And it’s pretty much similar with the other numbers.

We do have a graphical updated version of the Tour Stats here.

Not really. Lee Westwood was interviewed recently and advised that apart from his driver he hits everything else almost the exact same he has his entire career.

I’m looking for PGA tour averages for dynamic loft for different clubs. Does anyone have this data to share? Thanks!

Are there tour averages for club path?

Are all these stats full swings? Example: Would the avg tour pro hit a 6-iron further, if he turns fully and tries to hit it as far as possible (with a natural movement like on a driver – not with an unnatural swing that creates most possible power, but result in very unconsistent ball flight)?

Currently I practice indoors because of the winter. I do my practice with Trackman and I carry my 7 iron about 177-180 yards and total distance of 188-192 yards with my TaylorMade PSi irons. Lots of my shots with the 7 iron has a smash factor of 1.50-1.51.

This is a example of one of my shots with 7 iron.

Club speed: 80.2 | AoA: 1.3 | Ball speed: 120.5 | Carry: 164 meter | Total: 176 meter | Dyn Loft: 19.6 | Smash Factor: 1.50

Is that normal number for a 7 iron with a that club speed?

Averages are useful, but knowing them would be more useful if we knew the median and mode, as well as the range.

Hello, Are there updated PGA Tour Trackman stats?

On Trackman this week using 7i I noticed the spin rate I had was well below that of a pro by nearly 3,000 rpm but similar club speed and attack angle. How can I get my spin rate up?

It can vary a lot due to the ball and clubs you are using. For example driving range balls are normally very hard and will have much lower spinrates than a quality ball like a Titleist pro v1. Modern day irons are also built to higher the lauch angle and lower the spinrate so that the average golfer will achieve more distance

It would be great to know the average loft for each club, especially the irons!. I think 21-24-27-30-34-38-42-46 (3-Pw) are reasonable specs. What do you guys think?

What loft are the irons? A modern 7i is now 30°

Is this still the original data from 2015 or has it been updated?

I’d be very curious to see if the how the average attack angle has changed over this time in the PGA.

Please update this data from over the years of more testing.

Do you have any numbers on tour averages numbers on dynamic loft and spin loft?

I am a 2 handicapper and I hit my driver 280 yards on an average. What is the attack angle with driver of the best players on the pga tour?

these yardages are no doubt well below reality.

6 iron only 183yds carry? Most high handicappers hit it equally far.

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Golf Club Distances w/ Chart | Averages for Am & Pro Players

Last Updated on July 25, 2021

Distance is critical in golf. As golfers, we're always striving for more distance off the tee and consistent yardage gaps between the rest of our clubs.

In this guide, we'll break down how far amateur golfers of various skill levels and swing speeds hit each of their clubs to give you an idea of how you stack up. We've also included PGA and LPGA carry distance averages to see how you compare with the pros.

After that, we'll cover what factors affect your golf club distances and explain how to find out how far you hit each club.

Golf Club Distances Table

The table below shows how far golfers of various skill levels and swing speeds hit each club. 

We've included PGA and LPGA carry distance averages of professional golfers that TrackMan gathered . 

For amateur male golfers, we've split them into groups of "short," "mid," and "long" hitters. All distances refer to carry distance (distance until the ball first hits the ground) rather than total distance (carry and roll).

While TrackMan gathered extremely accurate data for LPGA and PGA carry distance averages, good data for amateurs is harder to come by. 

There's a massive gap in skill-level and swing speeds among amateur golfers. Golfers of various handicaps also achieve their handicaps in a variety of ways. A 5-handicap golfer could be a super fast swinger in their athletic prime or a senior golfer who has lost distance over the years.

For our amateur short, mid, and long hitting male amateur distances, we relied on the limited available large sample data and what we've seen personally from loads of amateur golfers.

Because these yardages are for golfers of all ages, junior, middle-aged, and especially senior golfers may find themselves with distances closer to the "Short Hitting Male Amateurs" column. Most young adult to middle-aged male golfers should carry the ball to at least the "Mid-Length Male Amateurs" distances, while faster swingers of these ages can reach the distances in the "Long Male Amateurs" column.

Lastly, aside from LPGA professionals, we didn't include other female golfers in our distance table. There's even less data available for amateur female golfers than for male amateurs. We've also found a more considerable disparity in how far female recreational players hit the ball. Basically, we weren't confident we could provide any accurate/valuable information for female amateurs' distances.

What Affects Distance in Golf

There are a lot of factors that influence your golf club distances.

Club speed is the most significant factor in determining distance .

To illustrate this, look at the correlation of club head speed vs carry distance for PGA Tour players in the scatter plot below:

Assuming all other things are equal, more swing speed means more energy that can be transferred from the club to the golf ball, resulting in higher ball speed. Higher ball speed means the ball will travel a further distance.

Factors like impact location on the club face, club path, spin rate, and launch angle also play a large part in how far a ball travels.

Impact Location Golf Iron and Driver Sweet Spot

An impact out of the "sweet spot" of your irons or woods will lead to a higher smash factor than strikes that are too low, too high, off the toe, or off the heel.

Smash factor is a calculation of how well you converted club speed into ball speed (Smash Factor = Ball Speed / Club Speed).

In particular, strikes out of the heel and low strikes can kill distance with the driver.

If you struggle to consistently hit the ball with or near the sweet spot of your club face, you'll have issues with the consistency of your yardages.

Spin Rate and Club Path

Spin rate plays a large role in how far you'll hit the ball and the shapes of your shots.

A lot of golfers put too much spin on the ball with their driver either because of too much club loft, poor strikes (bad impact location), or poor club face control (the direction the club face is aimed relative to your swing path).

If you feel you're hitting the ball well but should be getting a few more yards, work with a club-fitter to see if your driver has too much loft. The ideal spin rate depends on your club speed , but too much spin will cost you yards.

Slices and hooks are caused by the club face being aimed too open ( slice ) or too closed ( hook ) relative to the club path. This can lead to both too much spin and the ball's spin axis being too strongly left-to-right or right-to-left.

If your club face is open (aimed right) relative to your club path, this can both cause too much spin and will cause the ball to spin too left-to-right on its spin axis . You'll lose a lot of yards from a slice as the ball travels left-to-right rather than straight.

Launch Angle

For each club, there is an optimal amount of spin and an optimal launch angle. Launch angle is the angle of a golf ball's initial ascent relative to the ground.

Launching the ball too high or too low will cost you distance.

While launch angle problems could be due to your swing, they can also be caused by playing the wrong clubs for your swing. If you feel like you're hitting the ball too high or too low, work with a club-fitter to dial in your clubs.

Factors Out of Your Control

There are also factors out of your control that can affect distance, like temperature and altitude.

Every 10 degrees that the temperature rises can easily lead to a couple of yards of additional ball flight with a driver.

If you drive the ball 240 yards at sea level, you will carry it around 255 yards in Denver's mile high altitude.

How to Find Your Distances

If you're looking to better understand how far you hit each club, we'd recommend purchasing a launch monitor or finding a range with a launch monitor.

To get accurate distances, you'll also want to make sure that you're hitting the same golf balls you normally play on the course.

Many golf ranges have cheap, inconsistent, or even balls purposefully made not to fly as far as normal golf balls.

Your typical range ball can easily cost you 10+ yards with the driver, while a limited flight range ball can lose you 30+ yards of distance with driver compared to a premium golf ball.

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REVEALED: PGA Tour average CARRY DISTANCES - how do YOURS compare?!

How far do you hit each of your clubs? See how you compare to the average PGA Tour pro.

Ever wondered how far the average PGA Tour pro carries the ball with each of the clubs in their bag? Well you're in luck as the table below gives you the latest numbers from the circuit. 

Okay, not everyone hits the ball as far as the likes of Bryson DeChambeau - who incredibly once carried a drive last season 400 yards - but the below list at least gives you a broader idea as to how far the average PGA Tour pro is carrying their golf ball in 2021. 

I know for one that GolfMagic Equipment Editor Alex Lodge, who plays off a low single-figure handicap, can hit the below numbers for fun - so some of you guys and girls out there may also be in the same boat. 

Personally speaking, as a 14-handicap hacker, my total distances equate to the current carry distances of the average PGA Tour pro. But with a dodgy back and a few grey hairs starting to appear now, I will take that. 

See how your carry numbers compare to the world's best on the PGA Tour in the table below, starting with the driver and moving down to the pitching wedge. 

PGA TOUR AVERAGE CARRY DISTANCES 2021

DRIVER - 275 YARDS

3 WOOD - 243 YARDS

5 WOOD - 230 YARDS

HYBRID - 225 YARDS

3 IRON - 212 YARDS

4 IRON - 203 YARDS

5 IRON - 194 YARDS

6 IRON - 183 YARDS

7 IRON - 172 YARDS

8 IRON - 160 YARDS

9 IRON - 148 YARDS

PW - 136 YARDS

Stats: GOLFTV

How do your carry numbers compare to the averages on the PGA Tour? Come and share your thoughts over on our social media channels - Facebook, Instagram and Twitter - or head over to our YouTube channel.

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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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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 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 is 275 yards, while the average PGA Tour total driving distance was 299.9 yards in 2023.

Their club speed is usually around 113mph with a driver and the resulting ball speed averages 167mph, reaching a max height of just 32 yards off the ground.

Despite a 32-yard drop-off between driver and 3-wood, in regard to carry, PGA Tour players are still averaging 243 yards with the latter and bettering the average distance your leading amateur can manage with the big dog.

From 3-wood down, between 9-13 yards of carry is lost as you move through the bag. Using a variety of hybrid clubs with head angles of between 15 and 18 degrees, the median distance for PGA Tour players to carry that particular tool is 225 yards.

The average shot hit with a 4-iron on the PGA Tour carries 203 yards as a result of 96mph club-head speed and 137mph ball speed, and as the club becomes shorter, so do the numbers.

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When looking at the 7-iron, the total carry distance on the PGA Tour is 172 yards thanks to 90mph club speed and 120mph ball speed. PGA Tour players strike their shortest club - the pitching wedge - around 136 yards (carry), according to the Trackman data.

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

HOW FAR PGA TOUR PLAYERS HIT EVERY CLUB IN THE BAG

Data: Trackman, 2022

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.

New Balance produce some extremely stylish footwear and, in this review, Matt Cradock takes their spikeless 997 SL onto the course

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By Fergus Bisset Published 17 April 24

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How Far Should You Hit A 5 Iron? (Complete Overview)

Distance has become more and more important over the past decade of golf.

Tune into any professional golf event and you will see the professional golfers launching their drivers high and far.

They are also pretty good with their irons from a precision and distance perspective.

The average PGA Tour player will hit his 5 iron around 194 yards (carry distance) with a swing speed of 94 miles per hour.  There are many amateurs that struggle to swing their driver 94 miles per hour.

The average LPGA Tour player will hit her 5 iron 161 with a swing speed of 79 miles per hour.  The LPGA tour players are often a better comparison for many amateur golfers.

How Far Should You Hit A 5 Iron?

The average amateur should hit their 5 iron around 160 yards.  Considering that many amateurs swing their driver around 95-100 miles per hour, the natural drop in swing speed down to the 5 iron will produce a carry of around 160 yards.

Here is a quick reference chart for many of the common golf clubs found in a bag:

If you are someone looking to hit your 5 iron further, consider the different factors that influence distance with every club in the bag.

Factors That Influence Distance

Clubhead speed, launch angle.

Without additional clubhead speed, you will struggle to gain significant distance.  This is the most important factor when it comes to overall distance.  Even with the greatest sweet spot contact, optimum spin rate and the perfect launch angle you might struggle to hit the distance you want if you lack clubhead speed.

Resource: How to hit a 5 iron: 5 Keys!

The longest drivers on tour will swing their driver between 120 and 130 miles per hour, producing an impressive ball speed of between 170-195 miles per hour.

Check out below our number one tip to gain additional clubhead speed.  With this training device below, you can expect to gain 5-8 miles per hour in clubhead speed as early as your first training session.

With the SuperSpeed System detailed below, you can expect new distance with your driver and every club in the bag.

Ball speed is a combination of your clubhead speed combined with how centered the hit is.  High club head speed with an off center hit will rob of you your highest potential ball speed. 

The golfer that can find the right combination of clubhead speed and centered hits will have the highest ball speed.  Some golfers will gain ball speed by slowing down 1-3 miles per hour with their clubhead speed and maximize their on centered his, also known as the smash factor in golf.

The best way to increase your ball speed is to increase your clubhead speed and train at fast levels and then when on the course settle in at about 90% of your maximum speed, helping you to strike the center of the clubface.

Resource: How to increase ball speed (2 keys)

For a 5 iron, most golfers will want to have a spin rate in the 5000 RPM range.  If the spin rate gets too high you will lose distance and come up short.  If your spin rate is too low, you will get extra distance, but struggle to stop the ball on the green or to have consistency in the distance you carry your irons.  

When it comes to irons, you want to hit your irons within a certain range.  For example, if you hit your 5 iron between 160 and 165 yards that is fine, as long as one time you don’t hit it 180 and the next time 150.  Having the precision and a shorter range will help you score better.

Resource: Why is spin rate important?

There is an ideal launch angle with every club in the bag to maximize distance.  Too high or too low and you will lose distance.  You also have to be aware of the wind on every shot.  

The best golfers are able to hit both lower shots and higher shots with every club in the bag to play the course and the conditions for that day.

How To Hit Your 5 Iron Further

The number one tip is to swing faster.  How do you accomplish this?  Through training!  What is the best training option?  SuperSpeed Golf!   The three speed sticks that come with the purchase of the SuperSpeed System have a club that is 20% lighter, 10% lighter and 5% heavier.  The protocols are simple to follow and take 15-30 minutes per training session and you train every other day.  

Check current pricing on SuperSpeed Golf, here!

Golfers can expect to see a 5-8% increase as early as the first session and the speed will become more permanent after about 30 days of training.  Stick with the training for a continued increase in swing speed, which will come at about a 1-2 miles per hour increase every several months.  The thought process or science behind this approach is known as overspeed training.  

The idea is that you are training both your mind and your body to swing faster than you normally do.  The mind and body start to adapt to this new speed as the mind builds confidence in doing this safely and the body trains to move faster.

The SuperSpeed System will help you experience additional speed through every club in the bag and you will soon find yourself hitting the ball further, hitting the ball closer and making more putts. 

Resource: Our complete SuperSpeed Golf Review!

The analytics are pretty clear in golf!  The further you hit your driver, the shorter approach shot you have left.  The shorter approach shot, results in a closer proximity to the pin on average.  With the final outcome being more made putts because you are putting putts closer to the hole. 

The make percentage on the PGA tour from 8 feet is significantly better than 15 feet.  The bottom line is that you need shorter putts to make more putts and this starts on the tee by hitting your driver further!

Resource: How to make more short putts (5 simple steps)

Alternatives to the 5 Iron

Plenty of golfers have shifted to the hybrids as they replace their 3, 4, 5 and sometimes even the 6 iron.  The hybrid options at this point are the 3, 4 or 5 hybrids.  The goal is to have a chart of how far you hit each club and to ensure you have the gaps filled.  

Resource: 5 Iron vs 5 Hybrid: Which One Should I Carry?

You don’t want something larger than a 10-15 yard gap from inside of 185-200 yards.  Charting out how far you hit each club is a key to ensure you have the right clubs in your bag.

Here is an example of the chart I created for my golf yardages with irons and wedges:

I used my SkyTrak to measure my carry distances with every iron and wedge in the bag.  I hit 10 shots with each iron and took the average.  This was a simple process with something like my SkyTrak as I was able to create this simple chart and reference while on the golf course.  It is a game changer to have an accurate chart and to be able to this with my SkyTrak.

There are some great options in the golf market for affordable golf launch monitors.  You no longer have to pay $16,000 for a Trackman to have valuable data that can help reduce your golf score by several shots per round.

Here are my top 3 recommend affordable golf launch monitors:

My number one choice is the SkyTrak.  It has been a game changer!

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

Resource: SkyTrak Golf Launch Monitor: The Ultimate Game Improvement Tool!

How Far Should You Hit You 5 Iron: Other Tips

If you are struggling to hit your 5 iron, it is probably from a lack of speed (check out SuperSpeed Golf) or due to poor contact (low point control issues).

If you are having low point control issues, I would highly recommend the drill below.

The first fundamental of golf according to the Stack and Tilt Instructors is to be able to control the low point of your golf swing.  The best golfers in the world are able to hit precisely where they want on just about every shot they hit in every round they play.  

While the highest handicap players might only hit several shots a round where they control their low point.  Even as your handicap improves, continuing to work on low point control is essential to getting to the next level.  The best golfers are often the best ball strikers and this starts with controlling your low point in the golf swing.

Here the the steps to take to complete this drill:

• Paint a 2-3 yard long line with some yard paint.
• Place the wiffle ball on the line.
• The goal is to have your divot start just on the target side of your line.
• Go ahead and hit shot after shot, working on controlling your low point and your entry into the ground.
• Assess your success rate out of 20 times and write it down.
• Complete this drill daily for several weeks and see if your game improves at the course.

If you start to hit the ball poorly at any point on your golf journey, return to this drill and keep it simple.  

One quick tip: if you are struggling to control your low point, go ahead and set up with 60% of your weight on your front leg.  Keep your head centered without a big shift off the ball and turn more around your front leg.  This will help keep your centers in place and allow you to control the low point.  

Many golfers struggle with the low point because they don’t get their weight back to their front side early enough and end up casting the club.

How Far Should You Hit A 5 Iron: Final Thoughts

The key is to have consistency in your golf game.  This starts with the three fundamentals in golf:

• Controlling the low point of your golf swing
• Controlling the start line and the curve of your golf ball
• Having enough distance to play the golf course.

I have provided a great drill for low point control in the golf swing (see above), a training device for fundamental #3 (SuperSpeed Golf) and will leave you will a Stock Shot drill that can help with the 2nd fundamental above:

The 2nd fundamental of golf is to be able to control your start line and the curve of the ball. The stock shot drill is one drill that can be used for the remainder of your time playing the great game of golf.  

Have you ever played golf and have no idea where the ball is going to start and then curve?  Yes!  We have all been there before.  This stock shot drill is great to help you visualize and then monitor your success of starting the ball down your intended target line.

• Set up an alignment stick down your target line about 12-15 feet in front of you.
• Set up a second alignment stick about 2-4 feet right of the first alignment stick.
• Using a golf ball, go ahead and attempt to hit the ball through the gate.
• Assess how many times out of 20 you are successful.
• Write this number down and repeat this drill for as long as your play golf.

A realistic number even for the most advanced golfers might be around 15 out of 20.  Even the best golfers struggle to hit their start line from time to time.  The major benefit of this drill is to have the visuals to allow you to narrow into a specific target.  As you get to the golf course, you will be able to visualize the alignment sticks in your mind and hit it through that gate.

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:

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

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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From the Magazine

The PGA Tour's best in driving, iron play, putting and more share their secrets

Illustrations by Sam Hadley. Photographs by Getty Images

T hanks to PGA Tour’s ShotLink technology, it’s easier than ever for players to keep detailed statistics of their game. The tour tracks every single shot during competition, and therefore is able to collect hundreds of different stats in multiple categories from tee to green.

That made our job of identifying the very best in the most vital aspects of golf a little easier. However, it wasn’t as simple as looking at who was No. 1 on tour in the strokes gained/putting statistic and anointing that player as the top putter. There were other factors to consider such as the average number of putts per green in regulation, who avoids three-putts the most, who is the best from inside 10 feet and beyond 20 feet, etc. (The tour tracks 98 putting statistics.)

After hours and hours of analyzing all the tour data from 2021, we’ve singled out the best pros in six key categories: driving, iron play, chipping, scrambling, bunker play and putting. Some of the names that follow might come as a surprise—and some might not. Turn the page to see who Golf Digest ranks as the best in class, and then learn from the player and his coach how to better various parts of your game. —The Editors

BEST DRIVER JON RAHM

LOAD THE TRAIL LEG FOR LONGER DRIVES

A big reason why I’m so consistent with the driver is because my swing is very simple. Because there’s not much going on, there’s not much that can go wrong. I think of my swing as short and efficient. It’s mostly the result of having limited mobility in my right ankle and a right leg that’s shorter than my left. I was born with a club foot and had to have the bones in that leg broken and re-cast, so I can’t control the club very well if I swing it back any farther. But that also makes it easy to repeat.

As far as technique, I prefer to fade the ball, and I usually hit it pretty high, but I can draw it and hit it lower, whatever the hole calls for. I might change my stance, ball position or tee height to produce the shot I want, but the one thing that doesn’t change is the mental part.

I forget about my surroundings and just find something to aim at. When I do that, especially under pressure, it’s as if I’m back on the range mentally and can just swing without fear.

I don’t hit a lot of drivers when I practice, but when I do need to straighten things out, I usually focus on two things. The first is making sure the clubhead stays in front of me on the takeaway.

If I suck it too far inside the target line and it gets behind my hands, I lose control. One other thing: I make sure I load into my right hip on the backswing. I don’t sway off the ball. I want to feel really stable and loaded so I can push off my back foot on the downswing and hit the ball hard. —With Ron Kaspriske

Stuart Franklin

COACH'S TAKE

“Jon’s swing proves you don’t have to move off the ball to generate power. That feeling he has of being loaded into the trail leg is a good one for amateurs to copy. Another thing we watch is that he’s not standing too far from the ball. You want to see the butt end of the club over the top of your shoelaces. This will help you to turn better going back and clear out swinging through, allowing the driver to come into the ball on the proper inside path.” — DAVE PHILLIPS

JON RAHM was second on the PGA Tour in strokes gained/off the tee in 2021 and first in total driving, a stat that combines distance and accuracy. He also was first in strokes gained/tee to green.

HONORABLE MENTION: RORY MCILROY ✶ BRYSON DECHAMBEAU ✶ SERGIO GARCIA ✶ SUNGJAE IM

BEST IRON PLAYER COLLIN MORIKAWA

SWING YOUR IRONS LIKE YOU’RE IN NO RUSH

I ’ve always felt that iron play is the strength of my game. It’s the reason I’m OK giving up 10 or 20 yards to the bigger hitters—I’m confident I can hit my 6-iron just as close, if not closer, than they hit their 8-irons.

My first tip to being good on approach shots is sticking with the swing you trust the most. For me, it’s a mid-high cut. Whatever shot you like to play, remember that you don’t have to hit it to six feet to be a great iron player. There’s nothing wrong with putting it somewhere on the green and relying more on your putter. Only go flag hunting when the situation matches your go-to shot.

As far as Xs and Os, my coach, Rick Sessinghaus, and I like to keep it pretty simple. One aspect we focus on is rhythm. I have a pretty deliberate tempo, and sometimes I get quick in transition trying to manufacture speed. I’ve found that if I focus on finishing the swing in perfect balance—the trophy pose—I subconsciously make a smooth transition and maintain good rhythm from start to finish.

One drill I keep coming back to is a simple one I’ve done since childhood. I’ll put a glove under my left armpit and try to keep it pinned there for as long as I can during the swing. This helps my arms stay more connected to my body on the backswing. I have a tendency to pick the club up rather than turn with it, which results in a wipey fade that always comes up short and right of the target.

I also hit a ton of half-swing punch shots, which is a great way to identify any issues you might be having through impact because it’s a smooth, controllable motion. —With Dan Rapaport

David Cannon/R&A

“Every golfer can benefit by implementing some keys to Collin’s iron play. The first is Collin’s patient, deliberate takeaway, which helps keep the club and arms in front of his body all the way to the top of the swing. Next is how he keeps the clubface square through the impact area while maintaining the extension in his arms. Finally, Collin swings at about 80 percent. With less than max effort, you’ll find it easier to stay in control.” — RICK SESSINGHAUS

COLLIN MORIKAWA led the PGA Tour in strokes gained/approach the green in 2021, and was No. 1 in approaches (average distance from hole) from 125 to 150 yards, 150 to 175 and 175 to 200.

HONORABLE MENTION: JON RAHM ✶ PAUL CASEY ✶ DANIEL BERGER ✶ CAMERON PERCY

BEST CHIPPER KEVIN NA

CHIP IT CLOSE WITH MY ‘DEAD SOFT’ TECHNIQUE

F rom a closely mowed lie, such as a collection area, I believe I’m one of the best chippers in the world. Because I scoop my chips, my ball comes off softer than most everyone else’s and lands with almost no roll.

During the third round of last year’s Northern Trust at Liberty National Golf Club, the ball mark of my playing partner, Xander Schauffele, was on a spot on the green where I wanted a chip to land, so I asked him to move it. Then I chipped the ball right over that spot and into the hole. I’ll never forget the look on Xander’s face! He said he’s never seen a player ask to move a ball mark for a chip and then have the ball go in. It was the fourth time I chipped in that week!

What’s nice about my scooping technique is it’s roughly the same method I use from the rough or a greenside bunker. I chip with my 60-degree wedge, setting the handle neutral—not pressed forward—and the shaft perpendicular to my target line. The goal is to return both into the same positions at impact. The clubhead passes the handle, and my right hand works underneath, sliding the clubface under the ball. What I’m doing is dumping the clubhead and releasing it at the bottom, trying to ground the back perfectly to the turf, so it doesn’t dig. There’s not a lot of speed. As a result, there’s less compression to the ball at impact, and it comes off the face dead, with no threat of racing past the hole. —With Dave Allen

Stacy Revere

“The great thing about Kevin’s short game is, it’s very effective on all types of grass. He has the ability to keep moving forward and rotating with no fear of the leading edge digging into the turf, which is a common mistake for amateurs. He also has very little tension throughout his motion. It’s a free-fl owing acceleration allowing him to be aggressive.” — DREW STECKEL

KEVIN NA led the PGA Tour in the strokes gained/ around-the-green stat in 2021 (.702 strokes per round), becoming the first player to lead this category three times (2011, ’15 and ’21). Na also ranked fourth in scrambling and 12th in sand-save percentage.

HONORABLE MENTION: PATRICK CANTLAY ✶ PATRICK REED ✶ BRIAN HARMAN ✶ SEAMUS POWER

BEST SCRAMBLER PATRICK CANTLAY

SHAKE OFF THE MISS, THEN GET AGGRESSIVE

S crambling starts with forgetting what put you there in the first place, locking in on the present, and feeling the urgency to hit a quality shot. It’s a mentality almost as much as it is a technique.

Around the green, I focus on producing the right energy to get the ball to my target. In the rough, you have to hinge your wrists early on the backswing, accelerate the club into the ball and keep the clubface from closing as it goes through the thicker grass. You also have to read the slopes on the green accurately to leave the ball in a spot where you know you can make a positive putting stroke. Above all else, you have to leave the previous shot behind. Confidence starts with staying in the present, knowing your strengths and playing to them.

When playing approach shots from the rough, don’t take more risk than necessary. In general, birdies aren’t made from the rough, so take your medicine and play a smart shot. Gauging how shots are going to come out of the rough mostly comes from experience, but I don’t think it makes much sense to hit any club out of the rough that you have a tough time hitting from a clean lie. In other words, no fairway woods and no long irons.

Make a steeper backswing than normal and accelerate the club through the turf without trying to help the ball into the air. The more you flip your hands through impact, the more likely the grass will close the clubface and send the ball well short and left. It’s also likely that even a good shot from the rough will roll out a fair distance after it lands, so factor that into your plan. —With Mike Stachura

“Patrick’s really good at knowing when to hold them and knowing when to fold them. He knows if he hits it in the rough and has eight feet of green right of the flag and 60 feet to the left, it’s best to aim away from the hole on the left side, and then roll one down there to make an easy par save.” — JAMIE MULLIGAN

PATRICK CANTLAY ranked first on the PGA Tour in scrambling (67.3 percent), sixth in scrambling from the rough (65.1 percent) and 12th in approaches greater than 100 yards from the rough (43’4”) in 2021.

HONORABLE MENTION: CHARLES HOWELL III ✶ CAMERON TRINGALE ✶ ABRAHAM ANCER ✶ LOUIS OOSTHUIZEN

BEST BUNKER PLAYER XANDER SCHAUFFELE

‘BREAK THE TEE’ IN THE SAND

W hen I was a kid, I routinely did this drill where I would bury a tee under my ball in a greenside bunker and try to break the tee with my swing. My dad had me do it so that I would learn how to make an aggressive swing through the sand, which would carry the ball out every time. It’s a great way to learn how to hit bunker shots when you’re just starting out.

Over time, I’ve learned how to hit a number of shots in greenside bunkers. I can change my weight distribution, ball position, height of my hands at address, angle of attack, length of swing, clubhead speed—even how much bounce I use to hit the right shot for that particular lie. For example, with a fried-egg lie, I use less bounce and feel like the club is entering the sand closer to the hosel. If I want to create more spin and less roll, I add a little more speed and enter the sand closer to the ball than normal.

I realize you don’t practice in the bunker enough to be able to execute a variety of shots, so I would recommend getting good at this one: Open the face of your wedge before taking your grip and dig your feet into the sand. Your weight should favor your front leg, and the ball should be roughly in line with your shirt buttons. Then hit two inches behind the ball, keeping your speed up as you swing through the sand and into a full finish position.

Remember, be aggressive but don’t lose your posture as a result of swinging too hard. You might miss the entry point in the sand and dump it or blade the shot. With a smooth swing, you’re not going to get the ball to stop as quickly, so allow for some rollout. —With Ron Kaspriske

Alex Goodlett

“One of the main reasons Xander is very good out of the sand is the fact that he turns the ball both ways in nearly all parts of his game. Xander plays golf with a variety of hand and clubface positions. In other words, an open clubface with a weak grip—the standard way taught to set up in the bunker— doesn’t look outlandish to him. Where others might lose confidence holding the club that way, he certainly doesn’t.” — STEFAN SCHAUFFELE

XANDER SCHAUFFELE was second on the PGA Tour in sand-save percentage (64.7) in 2021, and his average proximity to the hole from the sand was 8’1”.

HONORABLE MENTION: BROOKS KOEPKA ✶ CAMERON SMITH ✶ WEBB SIMPSON ✶ WYNDHAM CLARK

BEST PUTTER PATRICK REED

LEVEL OFF FOR A BETTER ROLL

I ’d love to talk about the intricacies of my putting stroke and give you some analysis of how I approach things on the green, but I just don’t think about it that way. For me, it’s much more of a feel thing. To be clear, I have a few practice drills, and I’m constantly checking my alignment. But when I’m on the course, all I’m thinking about is break and speed and seeing the ball go in the hole. Even on long putts, I’m not trying to cozy it up there; I’m seeing it go in.

Besides my alignment, if there’s one other thing I’m checking from time to time, it’s making sure my shoulders are level over the ball. I’m not sure if it’s a product of setting up over every other shot with my trail shoulder lower than my lead shoulder, but I have to be careful that doesn’t creep into my putting posture. If your trail shoulder (right for righties) is lower than your lead shoulder, the tendency is to make a stroke that is too low to high, and the ball comes off the face a little hoppy. That can really impact your accuracy.

A great thing you can do to make sure your shoulders are level is to first set up with a cross-handed grip (lead-hand low). This keeps you from tilting away from the hole. Then, before you make your stroke, go back to your normal grip. Now you’re in position to strike the ball on a more level path and get a better roll.

My other advice for putting is to develop a pre-shot routine that you use every time you putt. That means doing the same things in the same amount of time on every putt. (If your routine takes 10 seconds, it should always take 10 seconds). A repetitive approach will get you in the mind-set of treating every putt the same, which takes the pressure off. —With Ron Kaspriske

Cliff Hawkins

“Patrick is very non-analytical with putting and probably wouldn’t putt well if he thought about that stuff. Aside from having great vision and feel on the greens, a key ingredient to Patrick’s success comes from the roll he puts on the ball. To copy that aspect of his game, try to get your putterhead to stay low to the ground after you strike the ball.” — DAVID LEADBETTER

PATRICK REED was fourth on the PGA Tour in strokes gained/putting and first in one-putt percentage (45.1) and three-putt avoidance (1.57 percent) in 2021.

Honorable Mention: Louis Oosthuizen ✶ Cameron Smith ✶ Sam Burns ✶ Jordan Spieth

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5 Hybrid vs. 5 Iron: Differences, Pros, & Cons

Standard length, clubhead speed, carry distance, advantages of the 5 hybrid, disadvantages of the 5 hybrid, when should you use a 5 hybrid, why does a 5 hybrid have a different shaft than a 5 iron, advantages of using the 5-iron , disadvantages of using the 5-iron, what wood replaces a 5 iron, when should you use a 5 iron, which clubs are better for a high handicap, utility iron vs hybrid, fairway woods vs irons vs hybrids, final verdict between 5 hybrid vs. 5 iron, can you carry hybrid and irons both in your golf bag, is the 5 hybrid and 5 iron interchangeable, will a 5 hybrid go further than a 5 iron, related articles.

So, let’s compare and contrast: 5 hybrid vs 5 iron? A 5 hybrid has a lower center of gravity, so it’s more forgiving and offers a higher launch angle. A 5 hybrid is better for high-handicap golfers. A 5 iron is more challenging to hit but can help you in more situations, so it is better for more skilled golfers. 

In this article, we take a look at the 5 hybrid vs 5 iron to understand how they differ, what similarities they have, and which club you might choose, depending on your style and experience.

5 Hybrid vs. 5 Iron: Differences 

Understanding the differences between hybrids and irons, specifically the 5-hybrid and 5-iron, can help you set your bag up for success. There are some substantial differences between the 5-iron and the 5-hybrid. The differences include:

• Carry distance

The 5-iron produces a lower trajectory and thus can go under trees from the rough, whereas the hybrid is more likely to go higher and into the trees.

The higher trajectory of the 5-hybrid will provide more control and stopping power on your long approach shots, while the 5-iron shot will roll further.

There’s no industry standard defined for the loft angle of each club. Manufacturers experiments with the loft of the set to provide less gap between clubs. Your new set of clubs could have different launch angles that you have to get used to and map your bag from scratch.

A typical 5-iron loft angle is between 27 degrees and 28 degrees and is best replaced with a 24-27 degree hybrid.

The shaft length is also not standardized across all manufacturers. The shaft length is important, and an incorrect length will affect the effectiveness of your swing. When replacing your 5-iron with a 5-hybrid, keep to the same length shaft but try and avoid more than ½ inch difference.

The standard 5-iron length by most manufacturers for men is 37.5-inch steel shafts or a 38-inch graphite shaft. The shaft length for women is, on average, 1 inch shorter than the specifications for men.

The club head of a 5-iron is manufactured from steel, making it heavier, which slows down your swing speeds and impacts the ball speed.

The average swing speeds of a 5-iron are approximately 80% of your driver’s swing speed. An average professional golfer on the PGA tour will reach a swing speed of 94 miles per hour, and a professional golfer on the LPGA will reach a swing speed of 79 miles per hour.

The clubhead design of a hybrid is very different from that of a normal 5-iron with a lower center of gravity and, thus, more tolerant of mishits.

Beginners and intermediate golfers will benefit tremendously from playing with a hybrid by hotting it further and more accurately than a 5-iron. As a bonus, you have a higher chance of hitting the sweet spot using a hybrid club.

Professional golfers are unlikely to play hybrids for distance but rather because they can hit more accurately. You are more likely to reach the maximum distance more consistently with a 5-hybrid than with a 5-iron.

The carry difference can make the difference whether you go for the green or not if there is water in front of the green.

The carry distance that a ball travels is determined by the number and loft of the club. The lower the number of the club, the higher the loft and the shorter the distance that the ball travels.

Carry distance statistics used are from professional tours and serve as guidance only as the swing speed and distances are extremely different between all golfers.

The PGA tour average statistics determined that the 5 iron distance is between 195 yards and 205 yards and achieves an apex of 31 yards

The LPGA tour reports average statistics for a 5-iron to indicate that a professional can achieve 170 yards on average and achieve an apex of 23 yards.

The above-mentioned distances are carry distances only and do not include any roll.

Here’s a club distance chart of the fairway wood, hybrids, and irons, which includes the 5 hybrid distance and 5 iron distance.

Want more information about the loft differences between irons? Read our full article.

5-hybrid: what is it, pros, cons, & who it’s for.

5-hybrids combine the features of irons and woods, providing golfers a more versatile and forgiving option.

Compared to irons like the 5-iron, a 5-hybrid features a larger club head and club face, making them more forgiving and easier to hit. The larger club face also provides a bigger sweet spot, allowing for better ball contact and fewer mishits.

One significant advantage of hybrid clubs is their lighter weight.

Most golfers can generate more club head and ball speed with lighter clubs. This increase in speed can result in longer and more accurate shots.

With a 5 hybrid there is typically a loft of approximately 25 degrees, although this may vary by a couple of degrees. This loft is similar to that of a 5 iron, but the hybrid is much easier to hit.

Here are a few benefits of using the 5 hybrids:

• Lower center of gravity.
• More trajectory and height on your shots.
• Much more forgiving than irons.
• Easier to hit for beginners.
• A couple of more yards if you hit it right.
• Difficult to hit from rough and hilly areas.
• Less control over the direction of the ball.

Hybrid clubs are pretty versatile, and you can essentially use them in most cases around the golf course. You can even tee off with them on a long par 3 – and yes, I’ve done that a lot. They’re easy to hit, go straight, and create a beautiful high trajectory.

You can use your hybrid for an approach shot on a par 5, a second shot on a long par 4, or try to cross the ball over the trees when you’re stuck as well.

Hybrids are called rescue irons for a reason. They rescue you from narrow situations and roughs. So, you can also freely hit your 5 hybrids from the rough.

Hybrid clubs have a longer shaft than their iron counterparts for a faster swing speed and increased distance. Hybrid shafts are around 0.75 inches longer than iron shafts, although the number can vary depending on your club.

A hybrid club has an adjustable weight, loft, and face settings. Irons can’t have these features. Because of this reason, the shafts of hybrids are different than iron.

Read more: Graphite vs Steel Shafts – Which Is Better & Why?

5-iron: what is it, pros, cons, & who it’s for.

A 5-iron falls into the mid-iron category with a metal clubhead with a thinner clubhead than the hybrid version of a 5-iron. The 5-iron is most often used off the fairway, semi-rough, and sometimes from the rough.

A 5-iron is easier to hit than long irons such as 3-iron or 4-irons. Some people may even consider a 5-iron to be in the long irons.

When you’re on an uphill and don’t want your shot to balloon, the 5-iron comes in handy to keep a lower trajectory. Knowing how to hit a 5-iron can be extremely beneficial for your longer approach shots.

• The 5-iron provides more control due to the increased thickness of the face.
• Good for fairways, rough, and very hilly areas.
• Not suitable in very thick rough.

Read more: These are the most forgiving irons this year.

Many golfers prefer fairway woods over irons because of the extra height you get, and the larger clubface allows you to achieve more distance without swinging too much.

If you’re considering replacing your 5 iron with a fairway wood, you should bring out your 9 wood or 11 wood.

You should take your 5 iron out on approach shots on par 4s or short par 5s. You can also hit it off the fairway, semi-rough, or rough.

The 5 iron gives you a low trajectory and is great for hitting it low from the rough or when you get stuck in the trees. Once you learn to manage a 5 iron, it’s also great for longer approach shots.

Who Should Use Which Club?

If you’re uncomfortable hitting your 5-iron it may be time to invest in a hybrid. Should you experience more mishits with the hybrid, it may be more beneficial to stick with your 5-iron.

When you decide to replace your iron with a hybrid, try and stay within a similar launch angle that may be a little stronger. This will keep the hybrid in a similar range as your iron and ensure that your bag mapping is not disturbed too much.

I recommend beginner golfers use a rescue iron since it’s more forgiving and has a lower center of gravity, allowing golfers to gain more height on their shots. 

Golfers with more experience can reap the true benefits of using the 5 iron since it’s a more versatile club.

So, if you’re a beginner golfer and you had to choose between the hybrid or mid to long irons, I’d suggest you get the rescue clubs.

And if you’re more experienced, you should use the irons. 

But if you can keep both in your bag for practice, why not? You can try both out and then choose the one that suits you.

The 5 hybrid and rescue irons are better to hit for high handicappers. They have a lower center of gravity and are more forgiving in mishits. The larger clubface allows more room for mishits and errors.

So, if you’re a high handicapper, I’d suggest you grab your hands on a rescue iron and get comfortable with that before hitting long irons.

Hybrids vs Other Golf Clubs 

While you’re comparing the 5-hybrid and 5-iron, it’s also worth comparing the irons with utility irons and fairway woods.

Here are brief comparisons between them.

Controlling the ball and hitting fades and draws are challenging on a hybrid compared to other golf clubs like the utility club.

The utility club has a lower launch and less spin, making hitting fades and draws look like a breeze.

Fairway woods like 3 wood and 5 wood generally have more range than their counter irons or hybrids. However, getting a good height can be more challenging on these.

Fairway woods have the longest shafts out of irons and hybrids. Because of their long shafts, some golfers can find fairway woods difficult to hit when compared to other clubs.

Hybrids are like a gap between fairway woods and irons. You get to experience the feeling of irons and fairway woods while using the hybrids.

Hybrids and irons are great clubs, and both have their strengths and weaknesses. A 5-iron is a mid-iron that can be difficult to hit, and replacing it with a 5-hybrid will aid you in improving the consistency of your game.

When replacing your 5-iron with a 5-hybrid keep your distance mapping in mind and ensure that you are not creating gaps in the mapping of your bag. Take a stronger loft on the hybrid to create a higher trajectory but retain your distance.

You’re allowed to carry hybrids and irons in your golf bag as long as they don’t exceed the golf club limit of 14 clubs. If you’re playing friendly, you can of course have more than 14, but during tournaments, you’re not allowed more than 14 clubs. So you need to choose wisely. I recommend having a rescue and your irons in your golf bag.

Just because two clubs share their numbers, it doesn’t mean they’re interchangeable. However, you can interchange the 5 hybrid and 5 iron mainly because of their similar lofts and ranges. But remember, your hybrids will go further and higher than your irons.

Keeping all factors constant, like swing speed, impact, launch, and other conditions, your 5 hybrids will go a few yards further than your 5 iron. This is mainly because of a longer shaft and your added height on hybrids.

• 3 Wood vs 5 Wood – Which To Choose and Why
• The 3 Wood vs 3 Hybrid – What’s The Difference and Which To Use
• Lob Wedge vs Sand Wedge – What’s The Difference?

Nick is the founder of GolfSpan and an avid golfer. He's not quite a pro but has over 15 years of experience playing and coaching golfers worldwide. His mission is to bring the golfing community a better experience when it comes to choosing the right golf gear and finding the right setup for your game.

• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls Review: Pros, Cons, & Costs
• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas 14 Golf Exercises For Seniors To Make You More Mobile
• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas What Is A Good Golf Handicap: Data Reveals Where You Stand
• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas 7 Best Low Compression Golf Balls: Pros & Cons of Using Them

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PGA Tour player average distances: Driver, irons, wedges through the bag

The average PGA Tour player doesn't hit their driver as far as Rory McIlroy , Justin Thomas or Tony Finau . However, they still hit the ball farther than most of you, even the shortest knockers, including the guys who struggle to drive the ball 270 yards.

How far PGA Tour players hit the golf ball with each club in their bag isn't an exact science, however. Every player is different, with a different swing, a different angle of attack, different swing speeds and more. Every situation -- off the tee, from the fairway or rough -- is different. So, we wanted to give you an idea of how far is far and how short is short among PGA Tour players.

We'll take you through the bag to show you PGA Tour players' average distances with their driver, irons and wedges.

Remember, these are general numbers that don't account for special late-in-tournament situations where a player may be particularly jacked with adrenaline and hit it farther than normal.

There's also been times there's one week per year where PGA Tour players hit the ball outrageously far. At the WGC-Mexico Championship, played in Mexico City at an elevation of 7,500 feet above sea level, the golf ball flew much farther because of the elevation change . The ball went some 12.5-15 percent longer. When the PGA Tour has an event in Denver, the ball flies closer to 5 percent farther.

PGA Tour player average distances: Driver, irons, wedges

• Driver: 275-350 yards
• 3-wood: 230-310 yards
• 3-iron: 210-260 yards
• 4-iron: 200-250 yards
• 5-iron: 190-230 yards
• 6-iron: 180-220 yards
• 7-iron: 170-200 yards
• 8-iron: 155-185 yards
• 9-iron: 140-170 yards
• PW: 120-140 yards
• SW: 80-110 yards

About the author

Ryan Ballengee

Ryan Ballengee is the founder, owner and operator of Golf News Net.

Sometimes we post sponsored content from this account, and it is labeled as such.

We also occasionally include links to products and services from merchants of our choice. GNN may earn a commission from sales generated by those links. See more in GNN's affiliate disclosure.

What Is the Average Distance With Each Golf Club?

This golf club distance chart can help your game

• DESCRIPTION Golfer pulling driver out of club bag
• SOURCE woraput/E+
• PERMISSION Getty Images License

The average distance golfers hit each club varies widely. A PGA Tour player hits a 7-iron between 172-215 yards. Meanwhile, a short-hitting amateur male golfer averages 120 yards with the same club.

Average Golf Club Distance Chart

Here's how far mid-handicap male golfers can expect to hit each club. Of course, specific distances for each individual player will vary based on several factors, which we'll detail shortly. 

According to the USGA, golf’s governing body in the United States, the average male amateur golfer hits driver 217 yards , as recently as 2019. That same year, the PGA Tour average driving distance was 293.9 yards. Men, women, seniors, juniors, professionals, amateurs and beginners all hit their clubs different distances. The following golf club distance charts break down the average distances of golfers at many different levels of the game.

Key Factors to Achieve Distance

The total distance achieved by a golf club is based on several factors, including swing speed, the club’s loft, the carry distance achieved (Note: The carry distance is the yardage from the point of impact to the point of landing.), and even the weather.

Swing Speed

The faster your swing speed, the greater the distance. According to TrackMan , the average PGA Tour player has a driver club speed of 113 MPH, resulting in a 275 yard carry. Meanwhile, LPGA Tour players average 94 MPH with driver, and carry the ball 218 yards. 

Since we know that amateur male golfers hit driver an average of 217 yards, we can infer that average male golfers and LPGA Tour players have similar swing speeds, making the LPGA Tour average distances with each club a good benchmark for average amateur male golfers.

Each club face has a unique loft. For example, a driver is designed for distance and usually has only 8-13 degrees of loft. In comparison, a pitching wedge is designed to get airborne, with 41-46 degrees of loft .

How to Accurately Measure How Far You Hit Your Clubs

According to thegolfmentor.com , distances achieved by short, mid and long hitters can vary by as much as 50% depending on the club and the gender (see actual average distance ranges below). Men tend to have faster swing speeds and hit the ball farther. However, many women are long hitters, with some LPGA pros hitting the ball as far, or farther, than men.

Distance can be greatly affected by the weather conditions. Hitting a ball into a strong wind will greatly influence distance, and a dry golf course will give you more roll, and therefore more distance, than a soggy course.

Average Distances for Men

Average distances for senior tour players.

The 10 Best Drivers for Senior Golfers in 2023 for Huge Distance

Average Distances for PGA Tour Players

Average distances for women.

The 9 Best Drivers for Women of 2023

Average Distances for LPGA Tour Players

Tip: chart your distances for all your clubs.

Keep track of your average golf stats and scores with GolfLink's personalized game tracker. Sign up for free and create yours now!

Go to the driving range and hit ten golf balls with each club. Keep track of the ten distances you achieve with each club. Repeat the charting monthly, or more frequently if you are actively working on your swing.

The distance achieved by a specific golf club will vary from player to player and from day to day based on the conditions. Tour distance information was compiled from stats on pgatour.com, lpga.com, TrackMan.com and golfwrx.com.

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How Far Can You Hit a 5 Iron? Expert Tips & Techniques to Maximize Distance

• by Liam Drake
• August 27, 2023 December 2, 2023

Let’s explore the intricate details of a 5 iron . Its design, length, and loft make it ideal for accurate and controlled shots . Weight distribution and club designs can help golfers optimize their swing for longer distances.

Skill level is another important factor. Experienced golfers achieve greater distances. Swing technique, power, and consistent contact with the ball all contribute to the distance.

I once saw a golfer hit his 5 iron farther than anyone else . His secret? Dedicating time to perfecting his swing technique. It takes physical power as well as finesse and precision to get great distances with a 5 iron.

Understanding a 5 iron

A 5 iron is a must-have in a golfer’s bag. With the right knowledge, you can maximize its potential. Here’s what to know:

• It can travel up to 180 yards .
• Its loft angle is between 23 & 27 degrees , for a medium trajectory.
• Its head is bigger & weight is concentrated on the sole, for stability & forgiveness .
• Steel or graphite shafts offer flexibility for different swings.
• Pros use it for approach shots or fairway hits, due to its accuracy & control .
• Beginners & slower swingers may benefit from hybrid clubs over traditional 5 irons .

What makes the 5 iron special is the shot versatility it offers in difficult situations. Whether you need to hit through roughs or narrow fairways, this club can help you reach your goal without sacrificing control.

Dustin Johnson holds the record for the longest shot with a 5 iron. During the 2013 BMW Championship, he hit a 240-yard shot! Put your golfing skills to the test and explore the factors that will decide how far your little ball goes when you swing a 5 iron – it’s like an Olympic sport!

Factors that affect the distance you can hit a 5 iron

Discover the factors impacting distance with a 5 iron! Swing speed, loft, club design, temperature, weather, ball type, and physical fitness all have an effect.

Swing speed affects club head speed, directly influencing distance. Lower loft generates more distance but can compromise accuracy. Advanced technology can optimize distance in certain models. Cold temperatures and wind resistance can hinder shot length.

Also, the type of golf ball used plays a major role. Different balls have varying compression levels and cover designs, which can influence performance.

Plus, one’s physical fitness and flexibility are key components impacting swing power, and thus, distance.

Studies conducted by PGA Tour players have shown that 5 irons typically travel 190-210 yards on average (source: Golf Digest).

Want to hit your 5 iron farther? Just think of it as revenge – a great motivator!

Tips to maximize your distance with a 5 iron

Grip the club firmly, but not too tight. Keep your arms and body relaxed. Maintain a smooth tempo and rhythm. Focus on striking the ball with the center of the clubface.

A slight forward lean towards the target can boost power. Shift your weight onto your front foot during the downswing for more speed and distance.

Take advantage of technology. Try clubs with lower lofts for lower trajectories. Practicing proper technique will improve consistency and yield longer shots.

For max distance with a 5 iron, follow these tips:

• Keep control over your shots.
• Adjust your stance and use appropriate equipment.
• With dedication and practice, you’ll be an expert at hitting long distances with a 5 iron.

In summary, golf can break your dreams with one swing… or 18.

A 5 iron can make a major difference to your golf game. It’s key to know how far you can hit this club. Other factors, like swing speed and skill level, also affect the distance. On average, a golfer hits from 160-200 yards. But this depends on strength and technique. Some may hit even farther, while others may not reach these averages. Want to maximize your distance? Here are some tips:

• Check your swing technique. Keep a balanced stance, move weight properly, and create a consistent swing plane. This will help get maximum acceleration and contact with the ball, meaning longer shots.
• Get a custom club. Speak to a professional club fitter to get your 5 iron made for you. Adjustments in shaft length, flex and grip size can boost power transfer and shot control, making the ball fly further.
• Strength and conditioning. Exercises that target core strength and flexibility will give you more power on the swing. Work those muscles used in rotation for the best shot.
• Use the right golf balls. Pick golf balls designed for distance. Lower compression ratings allow for more energy transfer on impact, resulting in longer shots.

Try these tips and experiment with advice from experts for ultimate progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How far can you hit a 5 iron?

A: The distance you can hit a 5 iron depends on various factors including your swing speed, technique, and conditions. On average, a well-struck 5 iron can travel about 150-175 yards for an average golfer.

Q: What factors affect the distance with a 5 iron?

A: Several factors influence the distance with a 5 iron. These include the golfer’s swing speed, angle of attack, quality of contact, wind conditions, altitude, and temperature.

Q: Can professionals hit a 5 iron further than amateurs?

A: Generally, professional golfers can hit a 5 iron farther than amateurs due to their higher swing speeds, superior technique, and consistent ball striking. Professionals may achieve distances of 175-200 yards or more with a 5 iron.

Q: Does club technology impact the distance with a 5 iron?

A: Yes, advancements in club technology can affect the distance with a 5 iron. Modern clubs often have larger sweet spots, higher launch angles, and better forgiveness, allowing golfers to achieve greater distances compared to older club models.

Q: How can I increase my distance with a 5 iron?

A: Improving your distance with a 5 iron requires practicing proper swing mechanics, maintaining good posture, generating clubhead speed, making solid contact with the ball, and optimizing your equipment for your swing characteristics.

Q: Are there any drills or exercises to help increase 5 iron distance?

A: Yes, there are various drills and exercises that can help increase your 5 iron distance. These may include strengthening exercises for your core and lower body, swing tempo drills, practicing with impact bags, and working on improving your overall flexibility and mobility.

Liam Drake, an avid golfer and seasoned outdoor enthusiast, brings his passion for the greens to his golfing blog. With years of experience swinging clubs and exploring courses around the world, Liam shares his insights, tips, and personal stories to inspire and guide fellow golf lovers. Whether it's breaking down the latest gear, navigating challenging courses, or just sharing a memorable round, Liam's blog is a treasure trove for anyone who shares his love for the game.

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How Far Do Most People Hit a 5 Iron? How About The Pros?

Britt O has been playing golf since the age of 7. Almost 30 years later, she still loves the game, has played competitively on every level, and spent a good portion of her life as a Class A PGA Professional. Britt currently resides in Savannah, GA, with her husband and two young children. Current Handicap: 1

View all posts by Brittany Olizarowicz

The average male golfer will get about 150-160 yards out of their 5 iron. However, it’s important to remember that these distances are directly related to the quality of the strike and the swing speed of the golfer.

Of course, there are other factors for things like the wind or the golf ball being used.

Women golfers rarely keep a 5 iron in their set with the number of 5 hybrid options on the market for women players. For a female, a great 5 iron strike should go about 110 yards. Again many women players will also hit their 7 iron almost this far, which is why the 5 iron often comes out of the bag.

The length that you should hit your 5 iron will be determined by your ability as well as your swing speed.

Table of Contents

PGA Tour Golfers

Lpga tour golfers, the right golf shaft, lots of ball speed, a center strike, the right loft on the club, ball position, look for a club with more forgiveness, get your weight transferred forward, callaway apex dcb 5 iron, how far do pga players hit a 5 iron.

Professional golfers can get more distance than average golfers because they have a high smash factor and go after the ball with quite a bit more speed. This is not to say that there are no average golfers with high swing speed; it’s just not as common.

Most PGA Tour golfers get more than 200 yards out of their 5 iron. The average is typically between 190 and 210, and of course, some can probably hit it further than these numbers.

One of the things that I find most interesting about these numbers is that PGA tour players are using golf irons with many different lofts than an average golfer. Several years ago, golf manufacturers realized that if they lowered the center of gravity in a golf iron, they could also lower the loft, and players would get great distance.

With many PGA Tour golfers, they are playing with a blade style 5 iron that has two or three degrees more loft than your 5 iron, yet they are still able to hit the ball incredibly far. This certainly takes some talent.

LPGA Tour golfers don’t always have the same speeds as PGA tour golfers, but they can generate a tremendous amount of clubhead speed. Most LPGA Tour golfers will hit their 5 iron anywhere from 175 to 190 yards.

For LPGA Tour golfers, you can see that the distance gap between an amateur and a professional is even larger than it is for male golfers. This says quite a bit about the training and work that LPGA tour golfers put in to be able to get the distances they need in their golf club sets.

The Dream: How to Hit a 5 Iron 200 Yards

Long hitters can easily hit a 5 iron 200 yards as long as they have all the right factors add up to produce these types of distance. Here are the things you will need in place to hit a 5 iron 200 yards…

The golf shaft in your 5 iron has to be a match for your game. In addition to looking at shaft flex and shaft weight, you also must consider the impacts of a longer shaft length and how that can affect carry distance.

Many great players will tell you that the best way to get the right performance in your game is to find a golf shaft that matches your game.

The ultimate way to increase the total distance of your golf shots is to increase your ball speed. Golf club distances are directly related to ball speeds. Any golf club distance chart will show you that the more swing speed you can get, the easier it is to get the distance.

Amateur golfers sometimes work on swing speed incorrectly and swing out of their shoes. Of course, your golf swing still needs to be in balance, and you must ensure that you are hitting the center of the clubface for the best total distance.

Hitting the ball in the center of the clubface makes a big difference in the total distance that you get. Golfers that hit the ball on the heel or the toe can lose 10 yards or more of distance.

If you hit the golf ball with a center strike, chances are your launch angle, and spin rate will also be optimized.

As we mentioned in the case of the PGA Tour player using a blade style iron, each five iron has a different loft and set makeup. Keep this in mind as the lower lofted 5 iron is going to travel a bit further and probably have some lower spin rates than the higher lofted golf irons.

All of these things will impact whether or not you are able to hit a 5 iron 200 yards.

Tips for Hitting Your 5 Iron Further

Here are some of the best tips for hitting your 5 iron further. Sometimes the issues impacting distance are equipment related. Other times, they are mechanics related.

It’s up to you to figure out which impacts you.

Keep the ball slightly forward of center. When you have the ball back in your stance, you may struggle with accuracy and not be able to apply the full energy that you have produced in your backswing.

With the 5 iron being slightly longer, this little bit of movement toward the front of your stance works out just fine.

More and more golfers and amateurs are realizing that long irons are considerably more challenging to play with than short irons or wedges. This is because of the lower loft of the club as well as the total length of the club.

A golfer that wants to hit the 5 iron further should look for something with a bit more forgiveness. These clubs often have a slightly high trajectory, and a bit of leeway on those toe or heel hits that players sometimes struggle with.

More forgiveness makes it easier to keep those club head speed numbers high.

One of the easiest ways to lose distance in your golf swing is to keep your weight on your back foot as you get to the impact position. Weight must transfer forward if you expect to get the full distance potential.

Golfers should work on making a transition from the top of the backswing down to impact so that they have some weight transferred to the left at impact. You can look at pictures of golf professionals and clearly see how they move this weight forward and improve their overall distance.

My Favorite 5 Iron (If You’re Looking for a Recommendation)

My favorite 5 iron has a mix of great feel and the ability to create tremendous distance while still controlling the ball.

More and more golfers are going with mixed sets of irons that fit the needs of their game. Think about adding this 5 iron to yours.

Delivers the look, feel and performance of a forged players club with the forgiveness of a deep cavity back. The deep cavity back and enhanced sole width are engineered for easy launch and solid turf interaction out of a variety of lies. The forged 1025 mild carbon steel body and patented urethane microspheres deliver exceptional sound and feel at impact, while the improved shaping helps enhance feel through the turf.

The Callaway Apex DCB 5 iron is my favorite on the market right now. This club was released in 2021, and it brings some impressive feel and precision to the market for amateur golfers.

This is a forged golf club, and for the first time, the Callaway Apex line has a club for players that need that extra forgiveness in their golf game.

This is a deep cavity back, but it is a forged golf face. The club is made with a 1025 mild carbon steel body, and it includes urethane microspheres to help with sound and feel. The top down line is a little thick, and the wide sole is certainly confidence-inducing.

If you are looking for something that provides an easy launch and very consistent turf interaction, the Callaway Apex DCB is an excellent option to consider.

• The progressive design allows for a bit more width in the sole
• Very forgiving Apex, a new release for Callaway
• Deep cavity back style with easy launch
• Consistent turf interaction
• Several golf shaft options
• Top-down look is a bit thick
• Can be hard to work the ball and control ball flight for better players

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Brittany Olizarowicz

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5 Iron Distance Tips: Hit Harder and Longer!

Table of Content

What Distance Does the Average Golfer Hit a 5 Iron?

What factors indicate your 5 iron distance, tips on hitting a good 5 iron shot, when should i use my 5 iron, what about swing speed for a 5 iron, 5 iron distance charts, how far do pros hit a 5 iron.

When you begin playing golf, the five iron is one of the first clubs that you try and hit. After all, it enables you to get the ball down there without turning to your woods or drivers and is easier to hit for most players.

But how far can you reasonably expect to hit a 5 iron? And when should you turn to your 5 iron when you’re out on the golf course?

In this article, we take you through everything you need to know about your 5 iron and provide you with some top tips that will help you hit your iron harder and longer this season.

Most male recreational golfers can expect to hit a 5 iron between 150 and 170 yards. There are several factors that affect this distance, including swing speed and launch angle, as well as ball striking consistency.

What’s more, many beginner golfers use cavity-backed irons, which typically don’t go as far as bladed clubs. So, when you’re pulling the 5 iron out of the bag, it’s really important to take these factors into consideration.

Don’t forget that every single golfer is different, so the distance that you can hit a 5 iron is likely to be different from your playing partner. This is nothing to be concerned about; it just illustrates the importance of working out your distances as far as course management is concerned.

So many recreational golfers struggle with their distances, and it’s largely down to the fact that they don’t know how far they can hit the clubs they carry in their bag. If you can dial in and have a good understanding of how far you can hit your irons, you will find that things become much easier from tee to green.

The main factor that influences your 5 iron distance is your swing speed. Recreational players are much more conservative when it comes to swing speed, which is why they don’t hit the same heights as the pros.

Professional players are capable of extremely fast swing speeds, which is what helps them to launch the ball so far and high.

Another factor that affects the distance that you can hit a 5 iron is the type of clubs that you have.

As mentioned, cavity-backed golf clubs that are popular with beginner players compromise some distance in favor of forgiveness, so you can’t expect to hit a 5 as far as someone who is using bladed irons.

Launch angle is another important consideration when it comes to the distance of your 5 iron.

The launch angle refers to the angle of your club throughout the swing, and it causes the ball to fly in a specific direction. If your launch angle is out, it will undoubtedly affect the distance you can hit a 5 iron.

Something else you should consider is the weather. When you’re playing golf in the winter months when the grass is wet, you won’t be able to hit the ball as far as you can in summer when the ground is dry. Although it will only influence your shots by a few yards, it’s still worth thinking about.

Hitting a good 5 iron shot requires practice, but here are some of our top tips for executing a great shot with this popular mid-iron:

• Control your swing speed: Instead of trying to hit the ball too hard (which is a common mistake among recreational golfers), focus on controlling your swing speed and playing through the ball.
• Play the ball from the middle of your stance: When addressing your ball with a 5 iron, you should play it off the middle of your stance. Make sure you’re not too far forward or back, as this will affect your ability to play the right shot.
• Know your distances: While it might sound obvious, be sure to work out how far you can hit a 5 iron. So many recreational golfers just hit and hope, but this makes course management nigh on impossible.
• Consider the weather : As mentioned, the weather can influence the way that you strike a 5 iron. If the wind is up, consider altering the trajectory of your shot, as you don’t want the ball to get caught up in the wind.

Watch this video from Golfers Digest, where they give you some great tips on how to hit a 5 iron to 200 yards plus!

You should use your 5 iron when you’re approximately 160 yards away from the green. This could be on the tee of a par three or down the fairway on a longer hole.

You can even use a 5 iron in the rough or out of a sand trap if you wish, but it’s difficult to achieve the desired ball flight from more difficult lies.

Some golfers also use a 5 iron to play chip and run shots around the green, which can be an effective way of getting the ball close to the pin if the conditions are right. That being said, pitch and runs are relatively difficult to execute, so it might not be the best shot choice if you’re new to the game.

Essentially, once you’ve worked out your distances, you can use a 5 iron when it’s appropriate to do so.

Just be mindful that because of its loft, you might find it difficult to play a 5 iron out of deep rough, so it’s helpful to opt for a higher lofted club just to get you out of trouble.

Knowing your distances is super important for course management, and when you get into the swing of things, you will instinctively know when it’s appropriate to play your 5 iron out on the course.

The average male golfer can expect to hit a 5 iron with a swing speed of around 94 mph. So, if you have a Trackman or any other launch monitor, you can use 94 mph as your target club head speed when using a 5 iron.

However, if you don’t have the means to track your swing speed, you don’t need to worry too much about this metric. After all, golf is all about feeling comfortable and improving your consistency, so you don’t need to increase your swing speed just for the sake of it.

It’s much better to focus on the dynamics and tempo of your swing, as this will help to improve the consistency of your ball striking. If you’re overly concerned with the speed of your club, you can fall into the trap of prioritizing speed over quality of strike.

As you might expect, this can lead to your swing being out of sync and is likely to have a negative impact on various other aspects of your game.

As every golfer is different, it’s important to realize that not everyone will be able to hit a 5 iron the same distance. The 5 iron distance chart is a helpful guide to get started with and showcases how far you can reasonably expect to hit a 5 iron on the golf course:

The distances that professional golfers achieve with their mid-irons are seriously impressive, and the fact that players on Tour regularly hit a 5 iron in excess of 200 yards is staggering!

They achieve such impressive swing speeds, and the mechanics of their swings are so pure, which enables them to achieve such big distances with irons.

For mere mortals, a 5 iron is a mid-iron that can be called upon from the 160-yard range and often comes into play on par 4s. But if you’ve got a particularly fast swing speed, you might be able to hit your 5 iron further than what is considered standard, which is why it’s so important to calculate your own distances.

Again, every golfer is different, so be sure to consider how far you can hit your 5 iron before taking to the course this season.

Professional golfers can hit a 5 iron in excess of 200 yards. When he’s at the top of his game, Tiger Woods regularly hits a 5 iron 210 yards.

As he’s widely considered to be one of the greatest of all time, it’s no surprise that Tiger can achieve such distances with a mid-iron.

Another player who has a super impressive distance chart is Dustin Johnson.

DJ is widely regarded as one of the longest players on Tour, and he can hit a 5 iron around 225 yards. That’s outrageously far and just goes to show how impressive his clubhead speed and ball control are.

As for the popular Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy, he falls somewhere between the two Americans and is known to hit his 5 iron around 220 yards.

These guys are all at the top of their games on the PGA Tour, and their numbers give you a rough idea of how far most Tour pros can hit their irons.

So, even if you don’t think you’ll be able to smash your 5 iron more than 200 yards, there’s no doubt that with a bit of work on the range and some additional practice, you can start striking your 5 iron sweetly out on the golf course.

The 5 iron is one of the most important clubs in your golf bag. It comes into play in various instances out on the course, so hitting it true is really important. It’s also crucial that you know how far you can hit a 5 iron, so you can improve your course management.

We hope this guide has provided you with detailed insight into hitting the 5 iron distance out on the golf course. Make sure you spend some time out on the range working on your irons and be sure to note down how far you’re capable of hitting each club.

5 Iron; Distance, Loft, Length (5 Iron Vs 5 Hybrid) + Chart

What is a 5 Iron

The 5 iron is a type of mid-range golf club which has an iron metal club head. Although the 5 iron falls into the mid-iron range, the exact distance depends on the specific club, type of player, and the course.

Table of Contents

5 Iron Golf Club Specs

What a 5 iron used for.

5 Irons are primarily used from the fairway and rough. The 5-iron golf club can also be used on hillier surfaces on the course, so that the player does not hit a low rise shot.

Low rise is a considerable risk while using long irons. Therefore mind-irons have the upper hand in this aspect.

Advantages of a 5 Iron:

• More control with this club due to increased thickness of the face
• Great for fairway and rough and very hilly areas
• Reduces the occurrence of low-rise shots
• Mid-irons such as the 5 iron can achieve a distance of 130 to 210 yards

Disadvantages of a 5 Iron

• Not suitable in very thick rough

What Degree is a 5 Iron

The degree of a club signifies the loft angle of the club, which is the angle the face makes with the shaft. Typically, a 5-iron golf club will have a 28-degree loft angle.

Golf clubs with significantly lower loft than the 5 iron are the 2 and 3 irons, while the 4-iron has a slightly lower loft value at 25.

A reduction in the loft angle of a club means that the ball will travel slightly farther. This extra distance traveled is known as “creep”.

What Hybrid Replaces a 5 Iron

A 5 iron golf club is best replaced with a 24-27 degree hybrid.

If you’re searching for a suitable hybrid, rest assured that most manufacturers will label the hybrid golf club with the corresponding iron club number you can replace.

Usually, the player who can swing at 90 miles per hour will be able to hit the ball with a 24-degree hybrid about 175 yards.

The same player can also hit the ball almost 160 yards with a 27-degree hybrid.

Tips to Replace a 5 Iron Golf Club

• Choose a hybrid that you can hit at nearly the same distance as the 5 iron.
• Aim for choosing a hybrid that offers more consistency.
• Look for the label on the hybrid that tells you which iron golf club it matches with.

Why Can’t I Hit my 5 Iron?

There are a few reasons why you may not able to hit your 5-iron golf club effectively.

 Here are some common mistakes you could be making that are hindering your ability to hit a 5-iron properly:

• You may not have the proper grip. It is crucial to master the standard interlocking grip for a 5-iron.
• You need a proper stance. Make sure never to keep the ball in the center of your stance; rather, it should be closer to the left foot.
• You might be struggling with clubface at impact. Make sure to learn how to achieve a proper loft and suitable flight path.
• You might not be able to maintain enough momentum for a proper swing. For this, you’ll need to complete full hip rotation along with the following procedure all the way with your hands.

How to Hit a 5 Iron

Hitting a 5-iron can be tricky, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be sure to complete perfect shots from almost anywhere on the course.

Learning how to hit a 5-iron can be a great advantage to your game.

How to hit a 5 iron golf club more effectively:

• Start by warming up with a few practice shots such as punch shots.
• Choose a reasonable target that is far away from hazards, so that you have a margin for error.
• Decide on shot shape for the 5-iron, preferably something that comes naturally to you.
• Hold a steady stance with the ball closer to your left foot.
• Keep your head still while you complete the backswing.
• Remain confident throughout the shot.
• Make sure you follow through with full hip rotation and consistent momentum.

5 Iron from the Tee

Although the 5-iron is good at performing those long shots, it is better to keep this golf club for the tee shots for 3-par holes. Make sure the distance is right before carrying out shots off the tee.

5 Iron from the Fairway

Usually, golfers aren’t keen on hitting with the 5-iron on the fairway . You would need an impeccable swing and neat strike to pull off a suitable shot on the fairway with a 5-iron. Even if you’re slightly off with the accuracy, you might end up with poor results.

How Far Should a 5 Iron Go

How far the 5-iron golf club hits the ball varies depending on gender and the type of player. Three main categories of players are:

• short hitters
• mid hitters
• long hitters

With the 5-iron, a male short-hitter can achieve 140 yards, while a female in the same range can achieve 80 yards.

Similarly, mid hitter males can hit the ball 160 yards, and mid- hitter females can achieve 110 yards.

Long hitter male golfers should hit a 5 iron 180-yards, while females should hit up to 140 yards.

These distances are simply average values for each golfer type.

The range you can hit will also depend on what golf ball you use, your swing speed, and conditions during play. The following tips can considerably improve your game with a 5-iron:

• Just as with any other golf club, keep practicing hitting with the 5-iron.
• Remember that a longer swing does not necessarily mean a longer hitting distance.
• Remain confident and keep in mind the essentials of hitting a 5-iron.

How Far Should you Hit a 5 Iron

The average distance men should hit a golf ball using a 5 iron is 160 yards. The average women should hit a 5 iron 140 yards.

However, lengths for the average player will vary of course. You must learn about your golf yardages and your potential for carrying out shots with the 5-iron golf club.

Once you start playing, you will get the hang of the 5-iron and will soon come to know the maximum yardage you can achieve from this golf club.

As you advance and build your skills, your yardage is likely to change. While practicing hitting far with the 5-iron, you should simply make sure you hit straight and far from hazards.

Is a 5 Hybrid the Same as a 5 Iron?

No they’re not the same. There are a few differences between a 5 iron and 5 hybrid. Although the 5-hybrid is meant to replace the 5-iron, golfers can hit the ball farther with a hybrid than with an iron.

This means a 5-hybrid has a longer distance range than a 5-iron. Furthermore, most golfers I come across, say that they find their 5-hybrid to be more accurate than a 5-iron.

Hybrid golf clubs also exhibit a better center of gravity than their iron counterparts, which means that you can expect a higher trajectory.

The hybrid golf club has a significant advantage over the iron-type; however, it is essential that you learn the proper technique for the 5-hybrid golf club.

 If you’re not handling the 5-hybrid correctly, it is better to stick with a 5-iron that you are more skilled at using.

What is the Standard Length of a 5 Iron

The standard length of a 5-iron golf club is 37.5 inches with steel shafts, and 38 inches with a Graphite shaft.

These lengths are for men, and the standard lengths for women are an inch shorter than the specifications for men. It is crucial to choose an appropriate length to ensure you get the maximum potential from your golf club. Here’s how to choose the best golf club for you:

• First, stand upright with your arms at your sides.
• Measure the length from your wrists to floor.
• Use your wrist-to-floor length and your height to pinpoint a suitable club length from a recommendation chart. 

Average 5 Iron Distance

The average distance a male golfer can hit a 5 Iron golf club is 160 yards. A female can hit a 5 Iron 140 yards. Professional golfers are known to hit 195 to 205 yards with a 5 iron.

The value of average carry per club for professional golfer hitting with a 5-iron is 181 yards. The average range for LPGA players with the 5-iron golf club is 170 yards.

What is the Degree of Loft on a 5 Iron

The 5-iron has a loft of 27 to 28 degrees.

There is no exact value of degree loft for each type of iron golf club. Measurements of loft angles keep changing throughout the years with new advancements and experiments.

Loft values directly affect the distance you can achieve with the golf club, so it is important to have a desirable loft degree.

It is not uncommon for golfers to struggle with achieving the correct trajectory, and trajectory is directly affected by the loft angle.

 To fix this problem and deliver the most suitable degree loft, it is important to keep in mind impact position and follow these necessary tips:

• Always position the ball properly between your stance.
• Try tilting your spine a little bit away from your target and keep your head behind the ball.
• Achieve a high finish after each full swing.

How to Hit a 5 Iron Off the Tee

Hitting a 5-iron off the tee might seem challenging at first, but when you follow these simple steps, you can master the shot in no time:

• Make sure you don’t set the ball too forward
• Make sure you’re not changing your swing
• Hit the 5-iron well off the ground
• Don’t hit the ball too hard
• Don’t hurry the shot

What Wood Replaces a 5 Iron

A 11 wood club is the best replacement for a 5-iron golf club. Both golf clubs will give you nearly the same speed and distance. The 11 wood offers a 30-degree loft which is 2 to 3 degrees higher than the 5 iron golf club.

5 Iron Vs 5 Hybrid

There are considerable differences between the 5-iron and 5-hybrid golf clubs. The 5-iron is more versatile than the 5-hybrids. You can easily get those low shots from under trees and branches.

On the other hand, a 5-hybrid has the ability to throw the ball higher into the air, and it offers slightly better control.

So, using a 5-iron or 5-hybrid depends entirely on the type of course and greenery you most typically deal with.

Generally, a 5 iron is better for longer distances while a 5 hybrid is more suitable for shorter distances.

5 Iron Vs 5 Wood

Both the 5-iron and 5-wood golf clubs are great for using off the tee or the ground. However, they vary greatly when it comes to loft degree and distance.

The 5-iron has a loft of 27 degrees, while the 5 wood offers a much lower loft degree of 18 degrees. The 5-wood also gives a much higher yard distance than the 5-iron golf club.

A 5 Wood is the better choice for longer shots with more accuracy. A 5 wood is also better than a 5 iron for hitting from the fairway.

5 Iron Vs 7 Wood

The 5-iron is in a whole different class  from the 7-wood golf club. It is mainly because of the differences in trajectory, and the design of both clubs.

The 7-wood golf club is versatile and highly consistent as compared to the 5-iron golf club.

With a 7-wood, however, you need to be sure not to swing too hard, unlike with a 5-iron golf club that can tackle various types of approaches.

A 7 wood offers a lower loft than the 5-iron, at 21 degrees and around the same average carry distance.

Therefore, if you are looking for more consistency, then the 7-wood is an excellent choice, but the 5-iron is a more solid, durable golf club.

5 Iron Vs 7 Iron

Although both golf clubs fall into the mid-range, a 7-iron golf club, when compared to the 5-iron, will give you a lower ball speed, lower club speed, and a smaller carry. However, with the 7-iron you can achieve more height with each hit.

You also have a higher launch angle with the 7-iron, which can suit you depending on your requirements and style.

The 5-iron will definitely be easier to hit than the 7-iron for most players. This is because the 7-iron has a longer shaft length and higher loft value.

5 Iron Vs 9 Iron

When compared to a 5-iron, a 9-iron will give you a much lower club speed, lower ball speed, less carry distance, but a slightly higher height. A much shorter range is expected from the 9-iron since with each increase in iron number, you’ll get shorter shots.

With a 9-iron, you can expect to hit anywhere from 80 to 90 yards for a beginner and 125 to 135 yards for an average player .

The 9-iron will also roll less after hitting the ground because of the steeper trajectory. Therefore, you should use a 9-iron if you’re looking for slower, more precise shots on the course.

A 9-iron will usually be more comfortable to control and hit as compared to the 5-iron.

5 Iron Vs 4 Hybrid

A 5-iron club will most likely offer a similar carry distance to a 4 hybrid. However, the 4-hybrid can give players more confident shots with gentle landings. A 4 hybrid also allows the golfer to carry out shorter shots.

A 4-hybrid golf club has a lower loft degree than the 5-iron, which means that you can expect a slightly longer distance. The hybrid will give you similar swing mechanics as the 5-iron, but you can expect overall better performance.

5 Iron Vs 9 Wood

The 9 Wood typically has a loft angle of 23 to 26 degrees, whereas a 5 iron golf club has a 27 to 28-degree loft angle.

Using the 9 wood golf club from the rough might be a better option than using a 5 iron if you’re comfortable with a wood golf club.

 Usually, golfers would prefer a 9 wood over a 5 iron because it might be easier to it, offering a cleaner shot.

A 9 wood is generally matched with a 4 iron golf club, rather than a 5 iron golf club due to both clubs having the same loft angle.

5 Iron Vs Driver

The distance of a golf driver depends highly upon the type of player using it, but on an average will give you a distance of 190 to 205 yards.

For PGA professionals, this yard range is from 280 to 320 while for LPGA professionals, the average yard range is from 230 to 270. The driver golf club has the lowest possible loft values ranging from 8 to 13 degrees.

Compared to a 5 iron, a driver golf club will give you much higher club speed, higher ball speed, lower land and launch angles, and a maximum height of 32 yards.

The average maximum height is only a yard more than that of the 5-iron golf club; however, speeds and distances are considerably higher.

When opting for long, steady shots, the driver is your best bet over the 5-iron golf club.

On the other hand, the 5-iron golf club will give you more versatility with your shots.

The driver is the most indispensable part of the golfer’s collection, and it allows you to master the shots off the tee effortlessly.

Alternative to a 5 Iron

Two popular alternatives to iron golf clubs are wood clubs and hybrids. Ideally, you’d expect a 5-wood golf club to replace a 5-iron golf club, however, with a lower wood golf club number you would achieve a yard range closer to the 5-iron.

There are a few signs to look out for if you suspect you need to find an alternative to your 5-iron. For example, if you are not feeling confident with the 5-iron, or if you are struggling with shots, it might be time for another golf club type.

If you are looking to replace your 5-iron with a hybrid golf club, you will most likely need a 5-number hybrid as well. However, you must check if you can achieve the same range with the alternative wood or hybrid to make sure you maintain consistency in your game.

5 Iron Carry Distance

It’s widely known that the top rule of determining golf club distances is that a smaller gold club number will hit longer than a higher golf club number. The carry distance tells us how far the golf club can hit the ball.

The PGA tour average statistics determined that the 5-iron golf club can achieve a carry distance of 195 yards while the LPGA tour average statistics showed a carry distance of 161 yards.

On similar lines, the PGA tour average statistics show that the 5-iron achieves a maximum height of 31 yards.

LGPA tour average statistics depict the average maximum height to be 23 yards.

These statistics are based on the performance of professional players, so your carry distance will vary.

It’s important that you know how far and high you can hit the ball with your 5-iron gold club. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Carry distance is measured right when the ball hits the ground, not when it rolls.
• You can hit ten or more shots in a row to figure out an average golf club distance.
• Your carry distance and height will change over time with more practice and improvement in skill.

5 Iron Clubhead Speed

According to PGA tour averages, the average 5-iron swing speed is 94 miles per hour for men. For women, the average 5-iron swing speed is 79 miles per hour.

The 5-iron golf club head is made from steel which means it is heavier than average. This particular clubhead weights almost 257 grams, while a titanium or lighter metal clubhead would weight around 198 grams.

Although the 5-iron clubhead is smaller in size than others, it is heavier in weight which means the swing speed will be slow. Of course, the club speed directly influences the ball speed.

On average, the PGA tour depicts the ball speed to be 132 miles per hour. The LPGA tour averages show that the 5-iron can produce an average club speed of 79 miles per hour and a ball speed of 112 miles per hour.

• Is a 7 Iron Better? Read my answer

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Ernie loves documenting interesting facts about golf.

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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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2024 PGA Championship odds, field: Surprising PGA picks from golf model that called 11 majors

Sportsline's proven model simulated the pga championship 2024 10,000 times and revealed its pga golf picks for valhalla golf club.

Although Ludvig Aberg wasn't able to become just the seventh golfer in the last 100 years to win his first career major appearance, the 24-year-old performed better than everyone besides the No. 1 golfer in the world at the Masters. Aberg, who finished second behind Scottie Scheffler and three strokes better than the third-place finishers, will try to carry that success into his second major at the 2024 PGA Championship on Thursday, May 16 at Valhalla Golf Club Louisville, Ky. Aberg, who is 16-1 odds in the 2024 PGA Championship odds, has made the cut in his first nine tournaments in the 2024 PGA Tour schedule as one of the top golfers in his first full-time season on the PGA Tour. Scheffler is the 4-1 favorite in the latest PGA Championship odds 2024, followed by Jon Rahm (9-1) and Rory McIlroy (10-1).

Before locking in any 2024 PGA Championship picks of your own, entering picks on sites like DraftKings or FanDuel, or finalizing PGA Championship props and PGA Championship Pick Six entries, be sure to see the 2024 PGA Championship golf predictions and projected leaderboard from the proven computer model at SportsLine .

Our proprietary model, built by DFS pro Mike McClure, has been red-hot since the PGA Tour resumed in June of 2020. In fact, the model is up almost $10,000 on its best bets since the restart, nailing tournament after tournament.

McClure's model correctly predicted Scottie Scheffler would finish on top of the leaderboard at the 2024 Masters, the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and The Players Championship this season. McClure also included Hideki Matsuyama in his best bets to win the 2024 Genesis Invitational. That bet hit at +9000, and for the entire tournament, McClure's best bets returned nearly $1,000.

The model also predicted Jon Rahm would be victorious at the 2023 Sentry Tournament of Champions and The American Express. At the 2023 Masters, the model was all over Rahm's second career major victory heading into the weekend. Rahm was two strokes off the lead heading into the third round, but the model still projected him as the winner. It was the second straight Masters win for the model, which also nailed Scheffler winning in 2022.

In addition, McClure's best bets included Nick Taylor (70-1) winning the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, Jason Day (17-1) winning outright at the 2023 AT&T Byron Nelson, and Rickie Fowler (14-1) finishing on top of the leaderboard at the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic.

This same model has also nailed a whopping 11 majors entering the weekend and hit the Masters three straight years. Anyone who has followed it has seen massive returns.

Now with the PGA Championship 2024 field taking shape, SportsLine simulated the tournament 10,000 times, and the results were surprising. Head to SportsLine now to see the projected leaderboard.

Top 2024 PGA Championship predictions 

One major surprise the model is calling for at the 2024 PGA Championship: Brooks Koepka, a three-time PGA champion and one of the favorites, stumbles and doesn't even crack the top 10. Koepka has five major tournament wins on his resume and a reputation for elevating his level of play in big events. However, his last two major starts haven't gone well as he was 45th at the Masters, which followed a 64th-place finish at last year's Open Championship. He's failed to shoot par in each of his last seven rounds at major tournaments.

After notching three tournament wins in 2023, including last year's PGA Championship, it has been tough sledding for Koepka in 2024. He has no victories, or even top-fives, and across his six starts, he has three times as many finishes outside the top 25 (three) as he has inside the top 10 (one). He played Valhalla at the 2014 PGA Championship and finished in a tie for 15th place, but that placement ranks just eighth out of his 11 career PGA Championship starts.

Another surprise: Collin Morikawa, a 25-1 longshot, makes a strong run at the title. He's a target for anyone looking for a huge payday. Morikawa finished third at the Masters at 4-under-par, as the 27-year-old continues to have  his best performances at major events. He is already a two-time major champion, including winning the PGA Championship in 2020 and has four top-five finishes over his last 10 majors.

Morikawa has six career PGA Tour victories and two top-10 finishes over his first eight PGA Tour events this season. What he lacks in driving power he makes up for in accuracy, ranking fifth in driving accuracy, so he rarely has to take his second shot from anywhere but the fairway. He's a top-30 putter on the PGA Tour, ranking inside the top 30 in birdie average, one-putt percentage and putting average.  See who else to pick here .

How to make 2024 PGA Championship picks

The model is also targeting three other golfers with odds of 25-1 or longer to make a strong run at the title. Anyone who backs these longshots could hit it big. You can only see the model's picks here .

Who will win the 2024 PGA Championship, and which longshots will stun the golfing world? Check out the PGA Championship 2024 odds below and then visit SportsLine to see the projected PGA Championship leaderboard, all from the model that's nailed 11 golf majors, including the last three Masters .

2024 PGA Championship odds, field

Get full 2024 PGA Championship picks, best bets, and predictions here.

Scottie Scheffler 4-1 Jon Rahm 9-1 Rory McIlroy 10-1 Ludvig Aberg 16-1 Brooks Koepka 16-1 Xander Schauffele 18-1 Viktor Hovland 20-1 Patrick Cantlay 20-1 Wyndham Clark 20-1 Cameron Smith 22-1 Joaquin Niemann 22-1 Collin Morikawa 25-1 Sam Burns 25-1 Max Homa 25-1 Matt Fitzpatrick 28-1 Tom Kim 28-1 Jordan Spieth 30-1 Bryson DeChambeau 30-1 Tony Finau 30-1 Dustin Johnson 30-1 Justin Thomas 33-1 Hideki Matsuyama 35-1 Jason Day 35-1 Cameron Young 35-1 Tommy Fleetwood 40-1 Rickie Fowler 45-1 Min Woo Lee 50-1 Sungjae Im 50-1 Shane Lowry 50-1 Tyrrell Hatton 50-1 Brian Harman 55-1 Corey Conners 60-1 Patrick Reed 65-1 Justin Rose 65-1 Russell Henley 65-1 Sahith Theegala 65-1 Keegan Bradley 75-1 Adam Scott 80-1 Talor Gooch 90-1 Gary Woodland 100-1 Kurt Kitayama 100-1 Daniel Berger 100-1 Louis Oosthuizen 125-1 Tiger Woods 125-1 Si Woo Kim 125-1 Keith Mitchell 125-1 Thomas Pieters 125-1 Abraham Ancer 125-1 J.T. Poston 125-1 Sepp Straka 125-1 Mito Pereira 150-1 Harris English 150-1 Phil Mickelson 150-1 Ryan Fox 150-1 Adam Hadwin 150-1 Sergio Garcia 150-1 Seamus Power 175-1 Denny McCarthy 175-1 Robert MacIntyre 175-1 Christiaan Bezuidenhout 175-1 Davis Riley 175-1 Aaron Wise 175-1 Marc Leishman 175-1 Billy Horschel 200-1 Harold Varner III 200-1 Jason Kokrak 200-1 Mackenzie Hughes 225-1 Francisco Molinari 225-1 Joel Dahmen 250-1

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2024 Masters: Tiger Woods' third-round recap after setting cuts-made record

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Tiger Woods completed 18 holes Saturday at the Masters, but it wasn't the outcome he wanted.

Woods signed for 10-over 82 in the third round at Augusta National Golf Club, falling out of contention for his sixth green jacket at 11 over for the tournament. Woods, 48, entered the third round on the precipice of contention, seven strokes off the lead, after setting the all-time record with his 24th consecutive made cut at Augusta National. His start to Saturday's third round was encouraging, rebounding from a bogey at the par-3 fourth with the day's first birdie at the staunch par-4 fifth, but he fell victim to Nos. 6-9, which he played a combined 6 over, en route to nine-hole scores of 42-40 and a subsequent tumble down the leaderboard.

"I didn't have a very good warmup session, and I kept it going all day today," Woods said afterward. "Just hit the ball in all the places that I know I shouldn't hit it. And I missed a lot of putts. Easy, makable putts. I missed a lot of them.

"I wouldn't say necessarily (a lack of) mental reps. It's just that I haven't competed and played much. When I had chances to get it flipped around and when I made that putt at 5, I promptly three-putted 6 and flub a chip at 7 and just got it going the wrong way, and when I had opportunities to flip it, I didn't."

Woods opened in rounds of 73-72, navigating breezy and increasing firm conditions with a series of crafty par saves, to enter the weekend in a tie for 22nd place, allowing one to dream of a weekend charge up the leaderboard. But his body caught up to him on Saturday afternoon, as could be expected after myriad surgeries in recent years. Nonetheless he cherished the walk around Augusta National, as did the appreciative patrons.

He planned to be back Sunday, he said afterward.

"My team will get me ready," he said. "It will be a long night and a long warmup session, but we'll be ready."

Hole 18 (par 4, 465 yards): Looking for a bright spot on a mostly disappointing afternoon, Woods plays a vintage tight cut up the 18th's narrow chute that leaves a gettable approach angle from 171 yards. He plays a solid iron shot up the hill but the ball doesn't quite reach the green's back level on which the hole is situated, leaving a 42-foot look for a closing birdie. He lags to tap-in range, makes his par and salutes the appreciative patrons.

It's not the best day for Woods, who will sign for 10-over 82, but he completed the walk despite clear physical pain at times. And the history he authored with a 24th straight made cut at Augusta National will endure.

Woods cards 10-over 82, stands 11-over for tournament

Hole 17 (par 4, 440 yards): It's a fourth straight bogey for Woods, as his tee shot misses the fairway in the left trees, forcing a second shot to the fairway cut right of the green. He plays a nifty third shot to 6 feet short of the hole, but his par putt burns the right edge. He taps in for bogey.

After a spirited second-round 72 in grueling conditions to make the cut with ease, perhaps the adrenaline is wearing off for the 48-year-old. He'll head to the home hole looking for a silver lining to the afternoon. Nonetheless there are far worse things in this world than a Saturday stroll around Augusta National.

Woods 10-over through 17, 11-over overall

Hole 16 (par 3, 159 yards): The five-time Masters winner selects 8-iron on the par 3 that has framed so many memorable Woods moments through the years. He safely finds the green's left side, but the ball catches the slope bisecting the putting surface and continues to drift away from the hole, leaving a difficult two-putt proposition from 55 feet. He's unable to do so, as his birdie putt races 15 feet past and he can't convert the comebacker. It's his fourth bogey in five holes.

Woods 9-over through 16, 10-over overall

Hole 15 (par 5, 550 yards): The struggles continue to mount for Woods, who plays a soft fade off the tee that misses the fairway to the right and lays up safely just short of the water's edge, leaving a 47-yard cross-pond pitch, but can't hold his third shot on the green. From 12 yards past the flag, his fourth shot fails to reach the putting surface, holding up in the fringe roughly 15 feet short of the hole. He takes two to get down from there, his third bogey in four holes. Woods is now fighting just to break 80.

Woods 8-over through 15, 9-over overall

Hole 14 (par 4, 440 yards): Woods pushes driver into the right pine straw, continuing to find difficulty in controlling the ball off the tee. It leaves a 125-yard approach to a slick green with abundant tree trouble. As a result, he plays a nifty low punch that barely gets off the ground but scampers up near the green before rolling off the right fringe and into a collection area.

Woods opens the face for his third and plays a high, soft pitch that lands near the hole and releases to 15 feet; from a spot well below the green, it's not a bad result. He two-putts for a bogey that was set up by an off-line tee shot.

Woods 7-over through 14, 8-over overall

Hole 13 (par 5, 545 yards): Woods misses the fairway into the grove of trees right on the iconic dogleg-left par 5, requiring a layup to roughly 60 yards. It's a tricky third shot to a green that seemingly swirls with contours, but the five-time Masters winner plays a sublime third shot that checks up nicely to leave a 10-foot birdie attempt.

It's a sidewinder, slippery right-to-left bender, and Woods buries it with perfect pace. A crafty birdie at Amen Corner's final leg. Despite the day's struggles, Woods is fighting hard to the finish, and he nods with a smile to the appreciative patrons.

Woods 6-over through 13, 7-over overall

Hole 12 (par 3, 146 yards): After a warm embrace from the patrons gathered by the 12th tee box, Woods tugs a short iron just left of the green, a safe shot to the front-left hole location but one that perhaps leaves something to be desired. He plays a bump-and-run second shot that barely gets off the ground and scampers to 6 feet before settling, leaving a knee-knocker for par, as was the case on the front nine's two par 3s.

He makes a tentative stroke on the par putt, and it misses on the hole's right side. He taps in for bogey, his third straight par-3 bogey in the third round.

Woods 7-over through 12; 8-over overall

Hole 11 (par 4, 520 yards): Woods begins Amen Corner with a high fade that hugs the right rough line but bounces into the fairway, still leaving a lengthy second shot where he'll have to respect the dense tree line. He plays a scissor fade from 216 yards that lands just off the green's front-right edge and suffers a brutal kick to well right of the green, leaving a devilish 24-yard third shot.

Woods plays a beautiful pitch to 5 feet and drips in his par. One of golf's enduring truths: never underestimate the short game of Tiger Woods.

Woods 6-over through 11, 7-over overall

Hole 10 (par 4, 495 yards): After speculation on the Masters.com Featured Groups stream regarding whether he would continue at the turn, Woods does just that, and he stripes a fairway metal to the right side of the fairway. He anxiously looks on as the ball bounces through the turf, clearly still very much engaged in the round despite a brutal four-hole stretch to end the first nine. "He's using a lot of upper body there," observed Colt Knost on the Featured Groups stream, regarding Woods' tee shot.

The grit never leaves Woods, and he stripes a mid-iron from 202 yards to hole-high, just right of the flag, leaving a solid 12-foot birdie look on the day's toughest-scoring hole. The slippery downhiller misses on the right side, running out some 3 feet. He takes his time on the comebacker and sinks it for par, ending the skid of over-par holes.

Woods 6-over through 10, 7-over overall

Hole 9 (par 4, 460 yards): The struggle continues for Woods physically; he winces after striking his tee shot on the front nine's final hole, as the ball fades into the tree line right of the fairway. "He's having trouble getting through the ball," remarked Colt Knost on the Masters.com Featured Groups telecast.

Woods is nearly stymied behind a tree, 148 yards from the hole, and tries to play a big slice toward the green, but it doesn't cut enough and catches a left greenside bunker. He splashes to 9 feet and the par putt narrowly misses on the right side; he taps in for bogey and his fourth consecutive hole played over par. He turns in 6-over 42, a disappointing start to his Masters Saturday, after the day began with such promise and a series of positive swings. His body is clearly ailing him.

It's the highest score on any nine of Woods' Masters career, coming in his 99th career round at Augusta National.

Woods 6-over through 9, 7-over overall

Hole 8 (par 5, 570 yards): Woods is starting to show signs of discomfort, walking with a slight limp as he navigates the lengthy eighth. In corresponding fashion, he's struggling to control the golf ball as well.

Woods takes driver off the tee and attempts a soft fade but double-crosses it, the ball sailing into trees well left of the fairway amidst a helicopter-like follow through. "Just a dead pull ... the lower body just didn't get out of the way," Colt Knost remarked on the Masters.com Featured Groups coverage. He plays his second shot back into the fairway and misses his 244-yard third shot to the right of the green, then plays an average pitch shot to 25 feet below the hole. His par putt misses on the left side, running 4 feet past the hole, and his bogey putt misses as well.

It's a second straight double bogey for Woods, whose chances at a sixth green jacket are fast dwindling. It's his first career double bogey at Augusta National's eighth hole.

Woods 5-over through 8, 6-over overall

Hole 7 (par 4, 450 yards): Woods takes fairway metal on the tight par 4 and plays a fade that over-cuts just slightly, bounding through the fairway and into the rough on the right side. He's forced to play short of the green from 166 yards, leaving a short-sided 44-yard third shot; he is visibly frustrated as he walks up the fairway to his third, knowing the difficulty of the shot ahead.

Woods attempts a high flop shot but catches it heavy; the ball lands in the front greenside bunker, on a downslope. He plays his fourth to 18 feet past the hole, and he two-putts for his first double bogey of the 88th Masters.

A big number at an inopportune time, as Woods cards his third over-par score in four holes. He's now 10 strokes off the lead and T33 for the week.

Woods 3-over through 7, 4-over overall

Hole 6 (par 3, 180 yards): Woods selects 7-iron and waits a beat for the wind to die down before an aggressive swing toward the hole location tucked on the green's back-left side; the ball lands some 15 feet right of the hole and releases to the back fringe, leaving a 25-foot birdie try.

Woods respects the pace on his birdie try, perhaps more so than required, as the ball settles 5 feet short of the hole. It's the second straight par 3 where Woods faces a tester to save par. For the second straight par 3, he can't convert, as he pushes the putt right of the hole. He makes bogey to fall over-par on the day once again.

Woods 1-over through 6, 2-over overall

Hole 5 (par 4, 495 yards): Woods plays a high fade off the tee on the brutally difficult par 4, leaving a 196-yard approach but well positioned to attack the green from the fairway's right side. "He didn't like his tee shot, but he hit it 319 yards," Colt Knost quipped.

Woods flushes his mid-iron approach, one of the day's best shots, leaving a makeable birdie try from 19 feet (on a hole yet to yield a birdie Saturday). On a serpentine-like multi-tiered green, Woods places the ball on the proper tier.

It's a left-to-right dripper, and he drains it with perfect pace, the day's first birdie at the staunch fifth. He raises a hand to the patrons and returns to even-par on the round. He's back within seven strokes of the lead, and he's tied for 19th on the leaderboard.

Woods even-par thru 5, 1-over overall

Hole 4 (par 3, 240 yards): Woods selects 4-iron on the staunch par 3 and launches it high into the air, the ball landing soft on the front fringe to leave an 39-foot birdie try, not bad on a hole that has yielded just one birdie (Will Zalatoris) so far today.

He starts the putt on a line right of the hole and hits it through the break, the ball racing a good bit past the hole, leaving his first mid-range par attempt of the day. It's a slider from 6 feet, and he misses on the right side. He taps in for bogey, his third straight bogey on No. 4 this week.

Woods falls into a tie for 24th, now eight strokes off the lead.

Woods 1-over through 4, 2-over overall

Hole 3 (par 4, 350 yards): Woods launches driver, the ball sailing past the fairway bunkers and releasing into an area of patrons just off the fairway's right side, leaving 77 yards to the hole's famed tabletop green, which requires deft touch to get the ball anywhere close.

Woods' second shot lands on the green's front portion and jumps toward the back, releasing past the hole to leave a slippery 18-foot birdie putt down the slope. "There is fast, and then there is this for Tiger Woods," Shane Bacon said on the Masters.com Featured Groups stream.

He starts the ball on a line a few feet left of the hole, and it narrowly turns all the way back, but not quite. He cleans up his third straight par to begin the day.

Woods even-par through 3, 1-over overall

Hole 2 (par 5, 575 yards): Woods makes less-than-100% contact with a 3-wood off the tee, the ball drifting toward the fairway's right side, safely in play but leaving 303 yards to the hole. He exudes a slight sigh, knowing it's perhaps a missed opportunity to attack the green in two. He takes fairway metal for his second shot and flushes it, the ball settling some 46 yards short-right of the flag, leaving an ideal angle for a cross-green pitch to a back-left hole location. "You either get this place or you don't," said Shane Bacon on the Masters.com Featured Groups stream. Woods, a five-time Masters winner, gets it.

Woods makes clean contact with his pitch, but the ball checks up sooner than he would like, leaving 16 feet for birdie. He strikes it well but it narrowly misses on the right side; Woods looks down in slight dismay, knowing the opportunity lost. He cleans up his second straight par to begin the day.

Woods even-par through 2, 1-over overall

Hole 1 (par 4, 445 yards): For the third straight day, Woods splits the fairway off the tee at the opening hole; he stripes it 305 yards to the flattest part of the fairway, leaving a short-iron approach from 147 yards. The patrons roar and Woods strides purposefully off the tee box.

Woods can't quite take advantage of his premier position off the tee, though. His approach lands and settles in the center of the green, leaving a 48-foot birdie putt from a lower tier, to a hole location situated on the green's back-right tier.

Woods has no trouble with the speed, though, lagging to 2 feet and saving his par with ease. "Professional golfers don't get enough credit for their lag putting," said Colt Knost on the Masters.com Featured Groups stream. No player has done it better than Woods, Knost adds.

Woods even-par through 1, 1-over overall

What putter does Rory McIlroy use? Star golfer's equipment explored

Rory McIlroy debuted a TaylorMade Spider Tour X at the beginning of his 2024 PGA Tour season.

TaylorMade launched the Spider Tour X collection in 2023. Rory McIlroy began testing the putter after the 2023 season. McIlroy made it a part of his bag after testing it for several months.

The 2023 Spider Tour X is similar to its previous model. The putter has an aluminum sole plate and TruePath technology. The TSS weights are placed in the sole as compared to the wings in the older model. McIlroy preferred the finish of the new putter as opposed to the previous one.

Rory McIlroy was an avid user of the Spider putters. He tried a Scotty Cameron putter for a while in 2023 before making the switch to the Spider Tour X.

What's in Rory McIlroy's bag?

Rory McIlroy has been a loyal user of TaylorMade since he signed a contract with them in 2017. Here's a breakdown of his bag:

Driver: TaylorMade Qi10 8.25°

3-wood: TaylorMade Qi10 15.0°; BRNR Mini Driver Copper

5-wood: TaylorMade Qi10 18.0°

Irons: TaylorMade P760 4-iron and TaylorMade Rors Prototype 5-9 iron

Wedges: TaylorMade MG4 46°, 50°, 54° and 60°

Shafts: Fujikura Ventus Black 6X (driver), 8X (3-wood) and 9X (5-wood)

Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour X

Ball: TaylorMade 2024 TP5x

Grips: SuperStroke (putter); GolfPride MCC Plus4

Ahead of the 2024 RBC Heritage , Rory McIlroy was seen practicing with the new TaylorMade BRNR Mini Driver Copper. McIlroy replaced his Qi10 3-wood with the new BRNR.

Rory McIlroy's 2024 season so far

Rory McIlroy is currently 41st on the FedEx Cup ranking with 549 points. He has played in 7 PGA Tour events so far with cuts made in all.

The World No. 2 player has had one top 10 finish and 6 top 25 finishes so far in the 2024 season. McIlroy finished solo third place at the Valero Texas Open with 11-under. McIlroy finished tied 22 with 4-over at the 2024 Masters.

According to PGA Tour stats, McIlroy's strokes gained rankings are:

• Off the Tee - 4th
• Approach - 61st
• Around the Green - 123rd
• Putting - 78th
• Total - 14th