The XXIO 13 ladies irons form part of the latest generation from the Japanese brand that also includes a driver, fairway woods and hybrids. I tested XXIO 12 irons so I was keen to find out how these irons would compare with their predecessor and if they would still hit the heights as one of the best golf irons for women with a moderate swing speed.
Compared with XXIO 12 irons, the aesthetic has been updated from a slightly darker shade of blue to light blue/turquoise tones that extend through to the 35g graphite shaft, which has a unique swirl pattern at the top for a modern and streamlined effect. They are fitted with a comfortable Golf Pride grip and certainly have a luxurious look and feel.
It’s the feel in particular that provides immediate confidence with these irons, as they are really nicely balanced, making them effortless to swing, and the strike and delivery at my first attempt with a 7-iron was impressive, so naturally I felt confident with my next iron shot and the next, and so it went on.
These irons feature superior technology including mass in the butt-end of the shaft, and this counterweight under the grip and behind your hands is the reason why you can swing them with ease, aiding a smooth takeaway to help find the right spot at the top of your swing, before releasing the club into the downswing, and ultimately making more consistent contact.
I noticed the new grooves in the outer periphery of the clubhead, designed in this way to improve the COR (the energy transfer between the clubface and the golf ball upon impact), and it’s these grooves combined with XXIO’s unique Rebound Frame technology, that create a face that acts like a spring within a spring to help deliver increased ball speed and distance.
The high-strength titanium face features hollow portions in the heel that allows for a toe-side weight and because this optimizes the center of gravity, I managed to consistently strike the ball with a high launch, dispersion was tight and distance was very pleasing. That said, I didn’t notice any significant yardage gains over the XXIO 12 model when using different irons throughout the set. It’s also worth mentioning that I felt equally comfortable and in control with the short irons around the green.
The best thing about these irons is that they deliver effortless power, as well as forgiveness, and you cannot help but feel confident when using them. Yes, they come with a high price tag, but are a worthwhile long-term investment if you want to give your iron play a boost. As it says etched on the back of each iron - Experience The Difference.
