8 Best Irons for Women: Designed to Improve Your Skills!

We’ve reviewed the best irons for women currently on the market and compiled a list of our top eight favorites.
By
Phillip Ortiz
Phillip Ortiz
Expert Consultant
Phillip is a professional golf player who knows exactly what features to look for if you need perfect gear. Apart from golf, Phillip is fond of fishing and hunting.
reviewed
Reviewed By
Suzanne Holley
Suzanne Holley
Research Writer
Suzanne is a talented news reporter. She's also a freelance writer with our site being her major and most loved project. In her free time, Suzanne loves reading utopian nove read more
Last updated: August 18, 2023
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Whether you’re a weekend female golfer or someone with aspirations of playing at the Masters, there’s no denying that you take your golf clubs very seriously. Some of the most crucial components of your golf bag will always be your irons. Finding the best irons for women can be somewhat challenging when there are so many options to choose from. The good news is that we’ve done the research for you. Our extensive review covers eight of the best golf irons for women.

Additionally, we’ve added a buying guide that covers some of the more common features to look out for when you’re making your shortlist. Familiarizing yourself with features such as shaft flex and length, as well as balance, will help you identify your potential favorites.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Callaway Rogue ST MAX OS Lite
    "As a versatile iron, players can expect increased swing speed and high launch"
  • Premium Pick: MIZUNO PRO 225
    "With its multi-material construction, you’ll get optimized launch and forgiveness, benefiting low to mid-handicaps"
  • "With this impressive graphite iron, players can look forward to better lofts, shafts, and swing weights. Remarkable forgiveness will also give you a better launch"
  • "Players will benefit from this iron’s laser-etched alignment with accuracy, distance, better ball speed, and a perfect launch"
  • "As a leading graphite iron, golfers will benefit from the extreme perimeter weighting, progressive set, and superior counterbalance"
  • Best for High Handicappers: Cobra Women’s Air X Hybrid Combo Iron Set
    "This impressive hybrid iron boasts a super lightweight profile making it ideal for high-handicap golfers or players with spin speeds under 90mph"
  • Best for Mid Handicappers: Wilson Women’s D9 Iron
    "Features such as a low gravity center and the thinnest unsupported face all contribute toward the game-improvement qualities you can expect from this remarkable iron"
  • Best Shock and Sound Resistance: Tour Edge Women’s Hot Launch C522 Iron
    "In addition to increased forgiveness and better launch, this remarkable iron also features VibRCor, which dampens sound and shock at the moment of impact"

Top 8 Irons for Women Reviewed in 2024

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9.8
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9.4
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9.5
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Editor’s Choice

Callaway Rogue ST MAX OS Lite

Features
  • Material: graphite
  • Weight: not specified

More features: wide soles, high launch, easy to swing

One of the top favorites of women golfers of all ages is the Callaway Rogue ST Max OS Lite. Made from lighter graphite, it offers a high launch and is also remarkably easy to swing. With its powerful distance, it’s sure to increase your swing. It’s no wonder that expert golfers are labeling this iron one of the best distance irons for women.

This model made it to our editor’s choice because it’s so versatile. A LITE version makes it one of the best irons for senior women. Women golfers who want to increase their swing speed will benefit from the graphite shaft.

Unlike their range counterparts, the OS irons are marginally larger than the Rogue ST Max irons. Additionally, they offer an excellent combination of distance and forgiveness.

    Why are we impressed?
  • The distance on this iron is impressive.
  • We find the gentle draw bias quite appealing.
  • Ideal for low handicap and scratch golfers.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • The lofts aren’t as strong as those on other irons in the range.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3457 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
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9.3
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9.2
9.7
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Premium Pick

MIZUNO PRO 225

Features
  • Material: steel
  • Weight: 28.5 g

More features: right-hand, more compact, forged in Japan

It’s not hard to see why the Mizuno PRO 225 is a firm favorite. Made from forged metal with a copper underlay, it provides a better-enhanced impact feel. Additionally, the Harmonic Impact Technology ensures that a fine-tuned head with the right geometry delivers the best impact feel.

We added this iron to our list of favorites because it’s more compact, and its multi-material construction optimizes launch and forgiveness. It makes for an effective long/mid-iron alternative for elite players. Players with low to mid handicaps will benefit from the whole set.

As a second-generation Mizuno, this iron is regarded by many as the most playable of their range. Since it’s more compact than the original, it features a multi-thickness face that is great for a much quicker ball speed. Our article,  muscle back irons for outstanding distances and precision is a great read if you want more information on the Mizuno models.

    Why did it make our list?
  • We found the 1025 Mild Carbon Steel great because it creates an incredibly soft feel.
  • The narrow top line makes them ideal for scratch and low-handicap golfers.
  • Its stronger forged metal structure creates less vibration.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • There is no left-hand design for this model.
  • It can often be more expensive than competing irons.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5484 people in the past 30 days
9.6
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9.1
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9.5
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9.1
9.6
Features
  • Material: graphite
  • Weight: 44 g

More features: higher launch, optimized for more ball speed, straighter shots, amazing forgiveness

Many women golfers will agree that the Callaway Big Bertha REVA is one of the better graphite irons on the market. Part of what makes it such an impressive iron is the lofts, shafts, and swing weights that are all optimized to make you hit the ball further. With its incredible forgiveness, you can expect an easier launch, straighter shots, and a much lower spin. The Big Bertha is commonly referred to as the best men’s iron for women.

For players looking to increase their ball distance, the Big Bertha is the ideal iron. The whole range is available in both left and right-hand options and features a shaft weight of 44g and a standard length varying between 34.75 and 37.50. The Big Bertha is different from the other irons on our list in that it features a patented urethane microsphere. This impressive feature absorbs any unwanted vibration, creating an impressive feel. At the same time, it’s consistent with faster ball speeds.

    Why is it special?
  • We enjoy the solid feel of this iron and believe that’s what makes it so effective.
  • This iron also provides optimal distance, even on most mishits.
    What are the flaws?
  • The increased offset might not be for everyone!
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Chosen by 5549 people in the past 30 days
9.5
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9.4
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9.4
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9.4
9.5
Features
  • Material: graphite
  • Weight: 38 g

More features: most flexible, laser-etched alignment

If it’s a combination of distance and forgiveness that you’re looking for to improve your game, then many golfers agree that you should look no further than this. One of the features that make this iron so impressive is the Cap Back Design. It’s been designed to remove the mid-section of the toe, which actually just lowers the CG of the iron. That gives the player additional ball speed and a perfect launch.

With its elegant graphite design and its laser-etched alignment, golfers will be rewarded with extra forgiveness, accuracy, and distance. That makes this an ideal club for mid and high-handicappers. Unlike many irons, the TaylorMade Women’s Stealth Hybrid isn’t a difficult long iron. It boasts a super-strong C300 steel face that makes hitting incredible ball speeds so much easier.

    What are its best features?
  • We are impressed with the advanced laser-etched alignment. Not only does it provide accurate aim, but it boosts confidence.
  • Its new carbon crown relocates 7g of mass, which improves stability.
    What could be improved?
  • A considerably low spin limits stopping power.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8655 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.5
Features
  • Material: graphite
  • Weight: 35 g

More features: created with artificial intelligence, progressive set, extreme perimeter weighting

There are several reasons why the Cleveland Women’s Launcher XL Halo iron is making headlines in the world of women’s golf. For starters, this iron is created with artificial intelligence to mill a thickness pattern into the back of the iron’s face. This pattern is essentially made of channels, grooves, and cavities, which ultimately offers a significantly improved COR.

The reason this iron made it to our list has to do with its larger head and extreme perimeter weighting, which hands-down creates the best forgiveness in any Cleveland iron. A feature that makes this iron different from its counterparts is the 8g weight that’s inserted into the end of the shaft. This addition creates what Cleveland refers to as a “counterbalanced” effect which provides the player with added control and stability.

    What are our favorite features?
  • This iron is ideal for developing a stronger and more consistent strike.
  • The 8g grip weight provides a superior counterbalance.
    What could be better?
  • Strong lofts might not suit every player.
  • The hybrid-iron shaping is an acquired preference.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2075 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
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9.0
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8.9
9.4
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Best for High Handicappers

Cobra Women’s Air X Hybrid Combo Iron Set

Features
  • Material: graphite
  • Weight: 41 g

More features: designed for high handicap golfers, swing speeds under 90mph, lightweight, easy to swing

If you’re a golfer with a high handicap with swing speeds under 90mph, then the Cobra Women’s Air X Hybrid is what you’re looking for. Since it also boasts a super lightweight profile making every swing as natural as possible. To add to that, Cobra has given their hybrid a lighter shaft, head, and grip, which significantly improves speed and control.

The effortless swing it provides and the well-controlled speed make it an obvious choice for our list. In addition, the offset hosel helps to create a straighter ball trajectory. The inclusion of heel-based weighting helps to square the face at impact, which provides a straighter and more controlled drive. With a face that’s much thinner in the heel, you’ll even get more speed on the miss-hits.

    What makes it special?
  • It’s lightweight and easy to swing.
  • We enjoy the draw bias that’s great for higher handicaps.
    What cons did we find?
  • This iron has a thick profile that some golfers might not find appealing.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2794 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.3
7
Best for Mid Handicappers

Wilson Women’s D9 Iron

Features
  • Material: graphite
  • Weight: 9 lbs.

More features: provides great speed, high ball flight

Many avid female golfers are enjoying the Wilson Women’s D9, and it’s easy to see why. Since the D9s boasts the thinnest and largest unsupported face in the entire Wilson range, you end up with an iron that provides significant control and increased distance. Ultimately that gives the player better spin characteristics anywhere on the course. Wilson women’s irons are also often regarded as the best irons for beginners.

Aside from adding distance to your swing, the D9 promises to add a bunch of game-improvement qualities that will definitely keep you on the fairway. It’s a great iron for mid and high-handicap players. Our article, blade irons review, features another popular Wilson iron, the Staff Model Blade Iron Set. The D9 is a super new upgrade from the original D7, and the most significant improvement comes with new power-hole arrangements. They work by increasing deflection and enabling more energy to transfer to the ball. This, in turn, results in higher ball speeds over a greater distance.

    What makes it special?
  • Aside from its many positive aspects, this iron is also great value for money.
  • It's incredibly easy to launch, and the clubface promotes a much greater distance.
    What cons did we find?
  • With its high launch, it might make it difficult to play in windy conditions.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9056 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.3
8
Best Shock and Sound Resistance

Tour Edge Women’s Hot Launch C522 Iron

Features
  • Material: soft 431 stainless steel
  • Weight: 8 lbs.

More features: increased forgiveness, dampened sound, and shock

The Tour Edge Women’s C522 is proof that game-winning irons don’t have to be chunky. Designed to significantly increase distance and forgiveness, they’re appealing to weekend golfers and pros alike. Some of the impressive features of this iron include an undercut cavity that provides increased launch, a toe-weight that creates more distance, and of course, a sole wide design that gives you an easier turf interaction.

If you’re looking for an iron that’s going to provide you with total game improvement, then this one is well worth looking into. With a lower CG, this iron allows for maximum distance without sacrificing any trajectory. For information regarding other irons with impressive game improvement capabilities, read irons to gain more distance.

The factor that makes this iron stick out from its counterparts is the VibRCor which is a high-grade TPU placed inside the undercut pocket. VibRCor dampens sound and shock at the moment of impact, creating better control and a softer feel. The deep undercut on this iron also allows for a substantial amount of forgiveness. It’s quite easy to see why this popular iron is regarded by many to be among the best game improvement irons for women.

    What makes it stand out?
  • You’ll definitely get faster ball speeds.
  • It’s quite predictable, making it super easy to control
  • Its classic shaping gives it a premium, high-end look.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Some players might be disappointed by the limited shaft options.

Things to Consider

Any woman who has ever played even one round of golf knows all too well that different clubs are designed for various purposes. That said, if you’re looking to upgrade your current set or you’re buying irons for the first time, it’s important to know what features will give you the winning edge.

Important Features

Just like the other items in your golf bag, irons are available in varying degrees of quality. This means that some are better than others. Getting the best irons depends on the features you choose to focus on. Read on as we highlight the top features to consider.

Hybrid Irons

If you’re buying golf irons for the first time, you’re going to come across some labeled as “hybrid.” What is a hybrid iron, and is there any difference from a regular women’s iron? Essentially, the primary difference between a regular iron and a hybrid is that hybrids have a lower gravity. That, in turn, creates a higher launch. Hybrids have higher forgiveness and are better for off-center hits. In general, hybrids are considered by many to be superior because of the increased trajectory.

Interestingly enough, LPGA stars Danielle Kang and Rory Mcllroy are only two of the pro golfers who have hybrids in their bags. The Cobra Women’s Air X Hybrid Combo Iron Set is a commonly chosen hybrid because of its superior swing speeds.

Material

8 Best Irons for Women: Designed to Improve Your Skills!
For the most part the two most preferred choices for women’s golf irons are stainless steel and graphite.

Golf irons have seen significant improvements over the years. For instance, shafts are now made of steel, titanium, and even carbon fiber.

  • Stainless steel: As the most commonly used material in golf clubs, stainless steel is inexpensive and durable enough to handle everyday play. Irons that have this material include the MIZUNO PRO 225, made from steel forged in Japan. The Tour Edge Women’s Hot Launch C522 Iron is made from soft 43 stainless steel, making it equally impressive. Since steel irons are generally heavier, they’re preferred by stronger, more athletic, and competitive players.
  • Graphite: Some of the best irons for good women golfers are made of graphite. Since it’s considerably lighter than steel, graphite helps create better club head speed and offers a great deal more flexibility than its steel counterparts. They’re also commonly used by seniors or players recovering from an injury that might benefit from less vibration on the iron. A few graphite options worth considering include the Wilson Women’s D9 Iron and the super light Callaway Big Bertha REVA. The Big Bertha is constructed using patented urethane microsphere technology which absorbs excess vibration.

Feel and control

8 Best Irons for Women: Designed to Improve Your Skills!
Your golf iron’s feel refers to vibrations that travel through the grip into your hands.

It also refers to the feel of the impact as you hit the ball. Forged irons tend to have a noticeably softer feel at impact than cast irons. Using an iron with a stronger feel will give you better control over your swing. Many golfers consider the Tour Edge Women’s Hot Launch C522 Iron to be superior in this regard because its VibRCor feature dampens sound and shock during impact. Golfers with average skills are known to favor the TaylorMade Women’s Stealth Hybrid Combo Iron Set. Beginners, on the other hand, will benefit from Cleveland’s Launcher XL Halo irons because they’re excellent for developing a more consistent strike.

Balance

Since golfers want distance and accuracy on longer shots, a balanced swing is important. Using an iron that helps you create better balance will give you better control and make it easier to hit the ball with the right amount of force to ensure accuracy. The Cleveland Women’s Launcher XL Halo Iron boasts an 8g weight inserted into the shaft end. Referred to as “counterbalance,” this added weight provides players with increased control and stability.

While the additional weight isn’t for everyone, it’s worth noting that it will help you make more putts and ultimately lower your scores.

Shaft flex and length

8 Best Irons for Women: Designed to Improve Your Skills!
Choosing the right shaft and flex will affect the way the club feels.

It’s one of the easiest ways to increase your swing speed. So, if that’s your goal, you’ll want to opt for the lighter graphite material, as that will help you generate a faster swing. The Callaway Rogue ST MAX OS Lite is a perfect example of this. If you’re not looking to increase your swing speed but need more control over the club head, you’ll want to opt for a heavier steel shaft. The MIZUNO PRO 225 iron, made with Japanese forged steel, is great for this.

Flex generally refers to the way in which the shaft turns during a swing. Here you’ll choose one depending on the way you play as well as the average distance you hit the ball. Irons are divided into three sets:

  • Long irons (2, 3, and 4-irons): Used to hit the ball further and are great for playing in windy conditions. The three iron provides exceptional control from the tee or fairway, while the four iron is better for hitting into greens. In many instances, players prefer a hybrid for these shots.
  • Mid irons (5,6, and 7-irons): Generally better for fairway and rough for longer approach shots. The average golfer only hits a six iron if they need to reach a distance of fewer than 150 yards. Generally, players with a faster swing will easily exceed 150 yards if they hit with a six iron. In short, only carry a 6-iron if you’re a mid-level player or a professional and not an amateur.
  • Short irons (8 and 9-irons, plus the pitching wedge): Designed to produce a higher loft because they have higher launch angles. The general distance to hit an 8-iron is 121 yards, whereas a 9-iron can reach 113 yards.

Forgiveness

Generally, golf forgiveness refers to the engineering and design elements that decrease the effects of bad swings. It also reduces poor contact with the ball. To know if a golf iron is going to be “forgiving,” simply check the distance and accuracy you get from hitting badly hit shots. If you’re a beginner golfer, choosing an iron with perimeter weighting will give you the forgiveness you need on your swing.

One of the top golf irons that offer a considerable amount of forgiveness is the Callaway Big Bertha REVA. Together with strong heel weighting, the forgiveness of the Callaway reduces the slice spin you put on the golf ball. This is why Callaway has designed their irons to produce amazingly fast ball speeds while being incredibly forgiving.

Hand Orientation

8 Best Irons for Women: Designed to Improve Your Skills!
To tell if a club is left or right-handed, set the club head on a flat surface. Keep the clubface facing you. If the hosel (the socket in the head of a golf club where the shaft is inserted) is angled to the right, then it means you’re looking at a right-handed golf club.

Hand orientation refers to whether or not your golf club is left or right-handed. It’s essential to note that a left-handed player cannot use a right-handed golf club. This is because a left-handed player must stand on the left side of the golf ball. The ball is then hit from the left. The MIZUNO PRO 225 is a right-handed iron and a firm favorite. Other brands that are considered by golf experts to be great for right-handed players include Cobra and Callaway. For left-handed players, experts often recommend TaylorMade or Wilson, but it really depends on your style of playing and personal preference.

Durability

When you’re buying new golf irons, durability should play a huge role in your deciding criteria. Typically, golf irons last anywhere from three years to a lifetime if you make some repairs along the way. Here you want to opt for quality irons and keep an eye on the grooves as your game style progresses. When your iron face starts showing dents or the grooves seem to be worn, it’s time for repairs. Playing with an iron that has lost its grooves will cause your ball to lose spin. Many golf enthusiasts agree that some of the top brands include Callaway, TaylorMade, and Cobra.

FAQ

How to clean a golf iron ?

Keeping your golf irons clean and maintained will go a long way toward ensuring their longevity. To clean your golf irons, simply follow these six steps:
  • Dip the irons in lukewarm water
  • Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the head and face – be sure to scrub in the grooves as well
  • Wipe off any dirt and debris with a soft towel, and check if the grooves are clean
  • Dip the irons back in the water to rinse or continue cleaning the grooves
  • Dry the irons off using a separate dry, clean towel or microfiber cloth

How to store a golf iron ?

Whether you opt for storing your clubs in the garage or the corner of your closet, be sure the bag and clubs will remain dry. High humidity can cause your golf irons to rust, so avoid storing them in areas where moisture is known to build up. Storing them in the trunk of your car, which you park in the sun, can also expose them to moisture. Make an effort to take them out of the trunk after every game!

What makes golf irons different from other clubs?

Essentially, the difference between a golf iron and the other golf clubs in your bag is the material it’s made of. Typically, irons have smaller clubheads and shorter shafts than wooden clubs. The head is made of solid steel or iron and is shaped in a flat, large, angled face and usually boasts grooves. As far as purpose, irons are mostly used when the player is less than 200 yards away from the green. As a rule of thumb, you’ll use a higher iron when you’re closer to green. Standard sets of irons consist of 3.4.5,6,7,8 and 9 irons.

Our verdict

If you’re a budding golfer, then our extensive review of the best irons for women will make it much easier to choose the model that’s going to give you the competitive edge. Let’s recap our top three. The Callaway Rogue ST MAX OS Lite, our editor’s choice, which we rated at 9.8, is impressive because its lightweight profile allows for a high launch and super easy swing. Additionally, this iron is ideal for senior women golfers who might prefer its lighter graphite shaft.

Secondly, the MIZUNO PRO 225 made it to our premium pick and boasted a rating of 9.7. With its Harmonic Impact Technology, players can look forward to a fine-tuned head with just the right amount of geometry to deliver an amazing impact with the ball. Also, thanks to its compact design, it’s perfect for players with low to mid handicaps.

Our best value option, Callaway Big Bertha REVA, received a rating of 9.6 and is great for players who want to increase ball distance. Another plus point is that the entire range is available for both left and right-handed players. Using the information from our comprehensive review, as well as the tips from our buying guide, will help you choose the best golf irons for your next game. Finding the best irons for women has never been easier!

References

1.
Golf and Health, More than 18 Holes—A Bibliometric Analysis - PMC
Despite golf’s contribution to health, scientific production related to golf and health has been relatively scarce.
2.
International Journal of Golf Science - ResearchGate
Effects of a 14-Week Golf-Specific Strength Training Program on Pelvic Rotational Velocity and Ball Impact Position using the K-Vest.
3.
The Relationship Between Player Skill Level and Golf Shot “Feel” Estimation | Published in International Journal of Golf Science
Distinctions between skill levels could provide explanations for varying abilities with golfers. The purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between skill levels and how accurate golfers can “feel” impact location and estimate shot outcome.
9,8
Total Score
Callaway Rogue ST MAX OS Lite - Editor’s Choice
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