Along with TaylorMade, Callaway Golf Company has had a longstanding reputation as a clubmaker for the everyman. Ever since the company came out with the Great Big Bertha driver and subsequent irons, everyone from weekend hackers to seasoned sticks have relied on Callaway clubs to achieve maximum enjoyment from the game they love so much, myself included.
We don’t have time to talk about all the great clubs Callaway has churned out over the years, but we’d be remiss not to mention the X-Hot irons.
Even though these irons are years old, they’ve proven timeless and there’s clearly a reason they remain such a coveted commodity.
Key Features
Undercut cavity back head design lowers the COG for higher launch conditions.
Larger than normal sweet makes the X Hot irons some of the most forgiving ever made.
Each club has a wide sole which improves turf interaction and keeps the leading edge from digging, especially in wet conditions.
Design and Technology
At the time of their introduction, the technology and design features of the Callaway X Hot irons were cutting edge.
Even though notable advances have been made since the X Hot’s then, it was the tech in these clubs that laid the foundation for future advances.
The conversation begins with the deep undercut cavity back design. Not only does this feature lower the COG for higher launch conditions, it makes the face extremely hot as well. When the X Hot irons came out, they had the highest COR rating of any game improvement iron on the market.
X Hot irons have a lot of weight in the head too. While this might seem like a deterrent for some golfers, the added weight has its advantages. The added mass in the heads is situated in such a way that it enhances the spring-like interaction of the ball against the face at impact. In short, we’re talking about even more COR.
If you were a fan of previous generations of Callaway game improvement irons, you’re sure to like the look and shape of the X Hots. They have a confidence-inspiring profile, and the offset gives you the sense that the sweet spot is big. It is.
Callaway X Hot Irons
Not only are the Callaway X Hot irons some of the most popular game improvement irons ever made, they don’t cost an arm and a leg either. That’s especially true today as golf clubs depreciate faster than just about anything else a consumer can buy.
While the modest price of the X Hot irons is certainly attractive, the design and technological features these clubs boast remains cutting-edge, even to this day. For any golfer looking for more distance, forgiveness, and exceptional responsiveness from their irons, Callaway X Hot irons should be a top consideration.
PROS
- Clubhead design features promote maximum forgiveness and explosive ball speed for increased distance.
- Undercut cavity fosters high launch conditions so iron shots land soft and hold the green.
- Price point is the best value on the market.
CONS
- Lack of adjustability for loft and lie maybe be troublesome for some golfers.
- Complete sets can be hard to find.
- Forgeries are known to exist so be sure to check serial numbers.
Our Experience
It’s been years since I last broke out my old set of X Hot irons, but I did on a lark not too long ago.
It didn’t take but just a few swings on the range for me to remember just how much I love these irons. When the ball comes off the face, it’s a feeling that I’ve never felt with any other iron. Solid shots feel like you’re hitting a forged club. The word I would use to describe the sensation is downright solid. And watching the ball rocket off the face served as the only reminder I needed to remember just how the X Hot faces are.
Compared to a lot of newer game improvement irons, the X Hot heads are visibly larger. Setting any of the irons behind the ball gives me a sense of confidence that most other irons just don’t.
Considering the price that Callaway X Hot irons can be purchased today, and for the performance they deliver, there’s not much else that compares.
Frequently Asked Questions
What technology is used in Callaway X Hot Irons?
The Callaway X Hot Irons feature a deep undercut cavity design that enhances ball speed across a larger portion of the clubface. This technology, derived from their driver designs, allows for higher ball speeds and explosive distance, making these irons some of the longest available.
What are the available shaft options for the X Hot Irons?
The X Hot Irons come with various shaft options, including True Temper Speed Step 85 Steel and True Temper XP 85 Steel, available in different flex ratings such as Regular and S300 (Stiff) to cater to different player preferences.
Can I customize the length and lie angle of my Callaway X Hot Irons?
Yes, Callaway offers customization services for length and lie angle adjustments. Customers can arrange these adjustments through authorized retailers or directly by contacting Callaway's Customer Service.
What is the typical price range for Callaway X Hot Irons?
The price for Callaway X Hot Irons typically ranges from approximately $203.19 to $281.99, depending on the condition and specific shaft options selected.
How can I determine if the Callaway X Hot Irons are right for my skill level?
Selecting the right irons depends on your skill level and playing style. The X Hot Irons are designed as game-improvement clubs, making them suitable for mid to high handicap golfers who seek distance and forgiveness.
Conclusion
Just because golf equipment is dated, doesn’t mean it still can’t help you improve your game. That’s certainly the case with the Callaway X Hot irons. As the saying goes, if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.
Maybe more than any other iron Callaway has ever produced, the X Hot line remains popular to this day. And it’s not hard to see why.
If you’re looking to hit your irons higher, farther, and more consistently, check out the Callaway X Hot irons for yourself. You just might be surprised with what you find.
Paul Liberatore
As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.
