The direct-to-consumer (DTC) revolution continues to force the golf industry to rethink its concept of value and performance, and Takomo Golf is, once again, leading the charge.
With the release of its 2026 lineup, it introduces a completely new model: the Takomo 201T MKII. Aimed squarely at better ball strikers who demand workability without sacrificing modern distance, this iron represents a bold new chapter for the brand. I've been testing this new offering to see if it can stand toe-to-toe with the best players' distance irons from the established giants.
Out of the gate, I admit I was initially confused as to why they have named it MKII, with it being the first iteration of this specific model, but that's a minor flaw in the grand scheme.
This iron is a hollow-body design that features a sophisticated split weighting system: tungsten is strategically placed in the long irons for stability and high launch, while the short irons utilize steel weighting for precision and control. It offers the most compact profile and least offset of the 2026 additions to the range, clearly targeting the discerning eye.
Visually, I didn't think Takomo could get much cleaner in their designs, but the 201T MKII has taken things to a new level with a stunning brushed finish while maintaining the signature Scandinavian minimalism that has become synonymous with the brand. It looks incredibly premium in the bag.
In the playing position, the longer irons are superb - sleek, compact, and inviting. However, the short iron shaping is a little more asymmetrical than I would have settled on; the toe section looks slightly out of balance with the angular heel and hosel, but that is a minor criticism of an otherwise beautifully proportioned set.
One detail I wasn't fond of was the painted white bottom groove. While many Ping iron fans might enjoy this alignment aid, I feel that it slightly cheapens the look for me, distracting from the otherwise pristine face.
The feel is exactly what I would have hoped for based on the hollow-body design and target market: lively and soft in equal measures. It provides a satisfying, powerful sensation at impact without feeling harsh, jumpy, or clicky in any way.
Performance-wise, I gathered data on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and noted some interesting results. The ball speed was very impressive, comparable to competition from higher-end brands. In my testing against the TaylorMade P770 iron at the same loft (7-iron is 33°), the P770 offered me, on average, just over 124 mph, while the 201T MKII clocked in at 125 mph confirming its credentials as a genuine contender in the speed category.
However, I noted a lower and slightly more inconsistent spin profile than I would have hoped for. Only a few of my 7-iron strikes reached above 5000 rpm, which was a surprisingly low output based on the fairly traditional lofts. In contrast, the P770 offered me the best part of 1500 rpm more spin and less fluctuation, providing significantly more stopping power and predictability.
This low spin is great for distance, but might require adjustment for holding firm greens.
Overall, the Takomo 201T MKII is an excellent value proposition offering stunning looks, an impressive feel, and good speeds. It proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to get a high-performance, hollow-body iron.
While I would want to investigate the spin readings I saw a little more before parting with my money - perhaps experimenting with shafts or lofts to boost spin - it remains undoubtedly a standout release for 2026.
The Takomo 201T MKII is available for $679/£619.
