GAME-IMPROVEMENT IRONS

The game-improvement category may be the area of iron design in which I have seen the most progression over the past couple of years. No longer do players seeking assistance with their ball-striking have to compromise on looks, feel or even turf interaction. Brands have truly refined their offerings, and I've been rigorously testing what they have come up with to guide you to the best options for your game.

- Joe Ferguson

Looks

While it may seem superficial, visual allure is a critical element in the overall appeal of any golf club, often proving the tiebreaker between two similar-performing models.

Historically, the often large, clunky offerings in the game-improvement category have been viewed as ugly ducklings compared with the compact profiles and sharp lines in the low-handicap iron sector. However, 2025 may just have seen the best-looking crop of game-improvers ever.

In my opinion, one of the best lookers is the new Titleist T350. In the playing position, everything you could want from a game-improvement iron is present: ample heel-to-toe length and a sizable topline, complemented by a healthy amount of offset. But the ‘in the bag’ view is where this model truly excels. The brushed matte finish screams premium, and the understated use of branding and colour elevates it to a level of sophistication that few others can rival.

Another honourable mention must go to the Srixon ZXi4, which I think is probably my favourite of all in the playing position. Every angle has been meticulously thought through, and while the blade length is generous and the topline relatively thick, Srixon has kept to the same proportions as the lower-handicap-oriented ZXi7 and ZXi5 irons in terms of profile, which makes it look a bit like a slightly friendlier older sibling.

The standout winner in the looks category, in my opinion at least, is the Callaway Elyte iron. From the soft curves and beautifully proportioned shaping to its classy combination of chrome with a hint of brushed steel, the Elyte iron is a thing of beauty. The detailing on the cavity badge is brilliantly done, and the branding has been delivered in an extremely sophisticated way, elevating this iron above anything else in the category for me.

GM pick: Callaway Elyte

● Feel