Best Hybrid Golf Clubs For High Handicappers 2024

We take a closer look at the best hybrid golf clubs for high handicappers.

Best Hybrid Golf Clubs For High Handicappers
(Image credit: Future)
Best Hybrid Golf Clubs For High Handicappers: Quick Menu

You should never be too proud to accept a bit of help because golf can be very, very hard. Manufacturers are well aware of this, of course, which is why they design clubs for golfers of all levels. If clubs are easier to hit, it stands to reason that you'll enjoy the game more, and who doesn't want to enjoy playing golf more?! For that reason, we have put together a definitive list on the game's best hybrid golf clubs, and have narrowed it down, in this guide, to the models that will appeal more to the high handicap player or beginner golfers. 

Typically, hybrids are designed to help golfers hit better approach shots from long range. They are also used to help you dig the ball out from difficult lies, as they can be a more forgiving option to use, compared to a 4 or 5-iron. Many top professionals carry a hybrid with them during tournament weeks over a long iron because they too can also benefit from the forgiving advantages hybrids offer. If you're a high handicap golfer, you're more likely to reap the rewards of from using a hybrid, as these clubs deliver forgiveness and inspire confidence when you look down the shaft, which you might not get when holding a scary looking 3-iron.

The good news is that you have plenty of options available to you - so let's take a closer look at the best hybrid golf clubs for high handicappers. Alternatively also take a look at our guides on the most forgiving hybrids and the best hybrid golf clubs for seniors as well.

WATCH: We test and compare all the latest golf hybrids in 2024

The Quick List

Best Hybrid Golf Clubs For High Handicappers

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Top pick

Cleveland Launcher HybridEditors Choice 2022

(Image credit: Future)
Our top pick

Specifications

Lofts: 19°, 21°, 24°, 27°

Reasons to buy

+
Easy to hit from any type of lie
+
Provides naturally high launch conditions
+
Forgiving on off-centre strikes

Reasons to avoid

-
Impact sound is on the louder side

The Cleveland Launcher XL Halo Hybrid ranks as one of the most forgiving hybrids on the market and hence earned a spot in our Editor's Choice Awards back in 2022.

The specific focus in the design process was to help golfers escape poor lies with power and accuracy but did it deliver in our testing? Well we definitely felt it delivered in terms of forgiveness thanks to the large head design that not only gave us confidence at address, but also ensured the club was easy to hit out of a variety of lies. It also performed exceptionally well on mis-hits, and got the ball up in the air quickly. And although its main selling point is its effectiveness from poor lies, it also performs brilliantly from the tee and the fairway.

Now better players may want a smaller head to look down on but for higher handicap players this aesthetic design is a clear benefit. We also liked the blue and black finish of the club which really helped it stand out.

Cobra Darkspeed Hybrid

Cobra Darkspeed Hybrid Review

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 17º, 19º, 21º, 24º, 28º

Reasons to buy

+
Very fast ball speed
+
High launch produces long carry distances
+
modern , sleek club design

Reasons to avoid

-
Long blade length from heel to toe may not suit all

Straight out of the box, the Darkspeed hybrid has a look synonymous with Cobra hybrids - a slightly longer blade length with a compact footprint and slightly more toe-heavy look to it from the top. The same stealth-like finish has been applied to the Darkspeed hybrid as seen on the rest of the Darkspeed family and provides a modern and premium aesthetic. The combination of black and grey tones alongside a matte dark grey crown make this one of the best looking hybrids at address.

Some of the same technology found in the fairway wood range has been installed in the Darkspeed hybrid and serves a really good purpose. The PWR-bridge technology and H.O.T face technology once again provide outstanding ball speed numbers and straight away made this hybrid one of the longest hybrids I have tested this year so far.

Upon testing indoors on a Trackman 4 launch monitor and using Titleist Pro V1 golf balls, we saw carry distances of 243 yards on average and ball speeds pushing just north of the 150mph number. For a 19° head, these numbers are pretty unbelievable considering my club speed was around the 103mph mark. 

TaylorMade Qi10 Max Hybrid

Photo of Taylormade Qi10 max rescue

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Lofts: 20º, 23º, 27º, 31º, 35º

Reasons to buy

+
Those seeking confidence through a larger sized head
+
Provides a high towering ball flight
+
Perimeter weighting creates maximum forgiveness

Reasons to avoid

-
Bonded head lacks ability to make adjustments to set-up

One of the main features of the Qi10 Max hybrid is the low CG combined with perimeter weighting, which promotes a high launch to maximize carry distance, particularly when struck from the deck. 

Through design of a shallower face, the engineers at TaylorMade have made a club that we think will inspire confidence behind the ball at address and will banish the nerves that creep in when playing into a green from distance. When conducting our testing out on the golf course, we noticed this straight away, particularly from the rough and the V-Steel sole helped cut through the wet grass - producing a ball flight reminiscent of one had the ball been teed up!

The premium color pallet of silver and blue tones look great on the Qi10 Max hybrid and are a welcome change over the likes of the Stealth 2 HD hybrid. Despite a bonded head, the face doesn’t sit too shut at address - something that many better players don’t like.

Best for any level

Ping G430 Hybrid held aloft to reveal its sleek looking sole

(Image credit: Future)
A fantastic golf club for any ability level

Specifications

Lofts: 17º, 19º, 22º, 26º, 30º, 34º

Reasons to buy

+
Plenty of forgiveness across the face
+
Clean aesthetics
+
Produced surprisingly fast ball speeds

Reasons to avoid

-
Fairly challenging to shape shots

While its predecessor was a very smart looking hybrid, Ping have improved the visuals of the G430 by adding some new white and green detailing to the sole of the club, which delivers a very premium feel. At address, its sleek matte black head looks very sharp sat behind the ball, and despite its compact looks, it inspires confidence - thanks to the club's shallow pitch that helps to open up the face. 

The source of its cool matte finish is the new Carbonwrap technology that Ping have implemented to this club to make it more forgiving. Essentially, this new innovation works by reducing the weight that sits in the crown of the club to lower its center of gravity. Ping say that then helps to produce better launch angles and forgiveness. On testing, we enjoyed the performance that the Carbonwrap head on the G430 delivered, finding that distance was not a problem, with the ball feeling particularly fast off the club face. 

While we're on the subject of feel, Ping has listened to past criticism of the G425 clubs and have tuned down the metallic sound the hybrid delivers on impact, with the G430 providing a much more satisfying crunch as you make contact on the golf ball. On miss-hits, the club still provided strong and powerful flights, but the true playability of this club became evident when we came to hitting the ball out of the rough. 

Best for distance

Callaway Apex UWEditors Choice 2022

(Image credit: Matthew Moore)

Specifications

Lofts: 17°, 19°, 21°

Reasons to buy

+
Can do the job of a higher lofted fairway wood and a strong hybrid
+
Longer than a five wood, easier to hit than a 2-iron or utility iron

Reasons to avoid

-
Looks are plain for such a high-tech club

In 2014, Callaway opened up a whole new market by introducing a long and forgiving forged iron for better players. Now, Callaway is attempting to create a new gear niche with the launch of its Apex UW (Utility Wood), a club that looks and flies like a fairway wood but offers the versatility and precision of the best hybrids.

Comprised of old-school looks, it is perhaps not obvious where the tech is until you reach the silver-grey soleplate that has a composite carbon-like appearance. Featuring a MIM’D Tungsten weight (18g per club) which sits behind two Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades in a neutral forward position close to the face, Callaway says this weight creates a neutral CG (centre of gravity) configuration for higher launch, steeper landing angles and better stopping power.

On test, it was exceptionally long, around 25 yards past similarly struck shots with other leading brand hybrids tested the same round. No matter the wind conditions, the Apex UW could even rival the best fairway woods on the market and was chosen for our 2022 Editor's Choice Awards.

Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke HL Hybrid

Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke HL Hybrid Review

(Image credit: Future)
One of the most forgiving hybrids we have ever tested

Specifications

Lofts: 18º, 21º, 24º, 27º, 30º, 33º

Reasons to buy

+
High, towering ball flight
+
Easy to launch from the rough
+
Forgiving, large foot-print

Reasons to avoid

-
Hard to keep the flight down when playing into wind

Another model in the Paradym Ai Smoke range is the HL hybrid which is essentially the more user-friendly version which offers an effortlessly high launch. As forgiving as the standard head is, the HL takes things up another notch thanks to the newly constructed Ai Smart Face, which sees multiple sweet spots scattered around behind the face to ensure miss-hit shots fly relatively similar to those struck out the center.

Out of the rough in particular it produced a high, towering ball flight that landed on greens from distance extremely softly. And yet the trade-off here is the club is difficult to flight down in the wind and there is a degree of control lost as a result. The adjustable hosel can help here slightly though.

The larger footprint really inspires confidence when on the ground and the classic ‘V’ alignment aid on the matte crown made it easy to set up square to my intended target. Overall this is the perfect hybrid for those with slower swing speeds seeking easy launch as well as those who like to see the ball fly from right to left as a right handed golfer. It will no doubt become one of the best hybrids for seniors and most forgiving hybrids over the course of the year due to how easy it is to use.

Titleist TSR1 Hybrid

Titleist TSR1 Hybrid

(Image credit: Alison Root)
An adjustable model that is easy to launch

Specifications

Lofts: 20°, 23°, 26°, 29°

Reasons to buy

+
Wood-like profile
+
Consistent accuracy
+
Easy to launch

Reasons to avoid

-
Not well suited to faster swinging players
-
Fitting is key to maximize performance

Compared with the TSR2 and TSR3 hybrid models from the same family, TSR1 is designed to suit players with a more moderate swing speed of less than 90mph to promote increased speed and launch.

At address, it has a confidence-inspiring look, with the aesthetics particularly tidy and sleek. What really sets this hybrid apart from other models though is the ultra-lightweight design which, in testing, we thought was really nicely weighted. It wasn't so light that we felt we might lose control when making a swing, but not so heavy that it was difficult to build momentum.

Performance-wise, the deep center of gravity placement helped forgiveness and also delivered on ball speed. What impressed us most was the towering ball flight that was created on impact. Each shot felt very solid off the clubface and the ball generally flew straight with notable distance.

TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Hybrid

TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Hybrid held aloft to reveal its red and black colorway

(Image credit: Future)
Twist Face technology helps to neutralise miss-hits

Specifications

Lofts: 18º, 21º, 24º, 27º

Reasons to buy

+
Inviting design at address 
+
Effortless in producing high launch
+
Superb out of tricky lies

Reasons to avoid

-
Those who turn the ball over may struggle

The TaylorMade Stealth 2 HD Hybrid is a fantastic long-iron replacement for those who might struggle to get optimal launch on their clubs. It forms a part of the versatile Stealth 2 range of hybrids, the Stealth 2 and the Stealth 2 Plus Rescue Hybrid, and is perhaps the best club for high-handicap golfers, thanks to how forgiving it is. Akin to the other Stealth 2 hybrids, the HD delivers a sleek design thanks to its glossy black carbon crown. The club head sits flush on the turf and has a slightly off-set position behind the ball which will appeal to many less experienced players. Keeping with the theme seen on the new Stealth 2 range, the club boasts the trademark red and black colorway which looks fantastic at address. 

As with many of the best golf hybrids, the Stealth 2 HD provides excellent movement through the turf thanks to the club's V Steel Design on the club's sole. We found it easy to pick the ball out from a variety of lies, and the Twist Face technology also helped to neutralise miss-hits, helping us find more fairways and greens. The HD is also an excellent option for higher-handicap players thanks to its lower center of gravity. The weighting of the club is pulled backwards, which enables the HD to launch the ball a lot higher, while also adding a slight draw bias to each shot, which is fantastic if you're the kind of golfer who regularly misses to the right. Overall, this was a very reliable club to play with, offering high launches and excellent forgiveness. 

Wilson Dynapower Hybrid

Wilson Dynapower Hybrid

(Image credit: Future)
Extremely easy to launch

Specifications

Lofts: 19º, 22º, 25º, 28º

Reasons to buy

+
Extremely easy to launch
+
Superb from the rough
+
Powerful impact sensation

Reasons to avoid

-
Large footprint won’t suit the eye of the better player
-
Not adjustable for loft

Delivering a very sleek aesthetic thanks to its matte black finish, the Wilson Dynapwr hybrid is one of the most forgiving hybrids on the market right now. Featuring pops of red on its sole, it comes with a very premium aesthetic, but the club's profile really does deliver confidence behind the golf ball. Performance-wise, the club offers very pleasing ball flights if you're looking to target the greens from distance. And the built-in draw bias on this club makes it an excellent option for players struggling with their accuracy on the fairways. 

It also comes with a very forgiving clubface that boasts a PKR2 design that helps off-center hits fly more consistently and keep ball speeds relatively high on misshits. We had no issues striking it out of the first cut, due to the high launch on this club and even hit one out of a fairway bunker on a par 5, perhaps a shot we wouldn't have tried with our regular 4-iron. Ultimately, this club is seriously forgiving and produces an effortless launch that many golfers will definitely enjoy. 

How we test hybrids

When it comes to Golf Monthly's testing procedure, we use the same ethos and methodology for all golf products to make sure they are as insightful, honest and comprehensive as possible. When it comes to golf clubs, we usually attend product launches so we can meet with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology.

After we have an understanding here, our first port of call when hitting clubs is usually the indoor simulator at Foresight Sports, where the team can test in a controlled environment using premium balls and the GCQuad launch monitor. We also use TrackMan at golf facilities across the UK. Specifically for hybrids, product testing is headed up by Matthew Moore, supported by technical editor Joel Tadman. Both are competitive low handicap golfers, able to efficiently test the biggest product releases and successfully communicate equipment technology and product features to a wide golfing audience.

How to choose the right hybrid

It's one thing knowing what the best golf hybrid clubs on the market are, and something else entirely choosing which model to add to your bag. So, how do you make such a decision?

In an ideal world, a properly executed club fitting will provide the answers - the amount of data available covering things like swing speed, club path, ball speed, angle of attack, and distance is quite staggering. One of these will definitely get the right make and model in your hands. However, if this isn't possible for whatever reason, we have a few tips.

1. Performance 

How a hybrid performs is the most important factor. You are looking for versatility that will improve your scores and help you out of trouble in a range of on-course situations. We would recommend trying out hybrids off the tee, from the rough, fairway, around the green and even from the middle of low-lipped fairway bunkers. You need to gauge how well they perform for you and a demo day is an ideal opportunity to do the kind of testing you need to be sure a hybrid is right for you. 

2. Feel 

A thorough test can inform how some clubs feel during the golf swing and most importantly at impact. Some models sound loud at impact, others are more muted. Some will feel like the contact is a dense thud, others will feel hot and energetic off the face. Feel is entirely subjective and personal to the player. Again, we recommend hitting some models indoors and outdoors, so you can have an idea of what you like and dislike.

3. Looks 

With all golf clubs you need to like how they look, especially at address, because you don't want to be distracted by a club you really don't enjoy looking at. Take some time to shop around, feel the club in your hands and see if you like the way it looks and feels at address. Does it match the rest of your set-up, will you feel completely comfortable putting it in the bag? As much as it may seem vain to judge a club on looks, it can increase your confidence on-course if you love the look of your hybrid when you pull the headcover.

Not every hybrid is the same. Some are more wood-like in appearance, whilst others have a higher toe and are designed to look more like an iron.

4. Budget

The penultimate factor you should consider is budget. Given the number of hybrids available on the market, you can find a quality club at most price points and to suit almost any budget. If you want a premium brand model then you can get one, or if you want to save money, there is usually value for money to be found if you are happy not to own a club by a marquee manufacturer.

5. Testing 

We hate to sound like a broken record but go to a range and try some out. Most places still tape clubs up and let you conduct your own range test. It won't be as thorough as a custom fit but you can draw some conclusions. For example, you'll be able to get a sense for the weight and looks of the club and whether the shaft suits the way you swing it. 

Hitting some shots, even with tape on the face, will also give you an idea of how easy each hybrid is to hit and get airborne. For higher handicappers, this will likely be very helpful. Better golfers may be in the market for something that's more workable and therefore would be suited to something with plenty of hosel adjustability. Ultimately, it depends on what aspect(s) of performance you value above all else and which hybrid is able to tick the most boxes for your game. 

For more advice on buying your next rescue club, check out our guides on the most forgiving golf hybrids and the best hybrids for senior golfers for more excellent options.

FAQs

When should I use my hybrid?

Hybrids are excellent clubs to use if you find yourself in a difficult lie on the course and need a bit of extra punch to get the ball out of the long stuff. They can also be great off the fairway, in the rough, or even for those tricky small shots around the greens.  

How many hybrids should I carry?

Commonly, most golfers carry one or two hybrids to replace any club between a 3-iron and a 5-iron.

What iron corresponds to what hybrid?

Typically a 3-iron is replaced in the bag by a 19º hybrid. A 4-iron would correspond to a 22º-24º hybrid. And a 5-iron would correspond to a 27º hybrid. 

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Sam De'Ath
Staff Writer

Sam has worked in the golf industry for 12 years, offering advice on equipment to all levels of golfers and as Staff Writer, he tests and reviews equipment throughout the bag. Sam graduated from Webber International University in 2017 with a BSc Marketing Management degree while playing collegiate golf. His experience of playing professionally on both the EuroPro Tour and Clutch Pro Tour, alongside his golf retail history, means Sam has extensive knowledge of golf equipment and what works for different types of golfer.

Sam is a member of North Hants Golf Club in Fleet, Hampshire, where he won the club championship 3 times in succession from 2015-2017. His golfing highlight to date is shooting a round of 10-under 60 at his home club, narrowly missing a wedge shot for a magical 59.


Sam’s current What’s In The Bag?


Driver: TaylorMade Stealth 2, 9°

Fairway Wood: TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus, 15°

Hybrid: Ping G430 19°

Irons: Titleist T-100 4 iron, Titleist 620MB, 5-PW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 50°, 54°, 62°

Putter: Scotty Cameron Select GoLo

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x 2021 


With contributions from