This is one long hybrid.
I used to pride myself on my long-iron accuracy and distance. But as I’ve aged, my golf game has become more reliant on hybrids. The 10-year-ago version of me would be appalled to know that my 2023 self is using hybrids to replace the 3-, 4- and 5-iron in my bag. But it’s true, and truth be told, they’re way easier for me to hit now than the irons. And more powerful. But I still wish I had a little more oomph in that part of the bag, with respect to distance. And I think Callaway may have found the answer.
Its new Paradaym Super Hybrid ($400/club) is built with driver-like power. The company actually took the same Paradym driver schematic and materials, and then scaled it all down into a hybrid. That means each Super Hybrid – which by the way is offered in base lofts of 16, 18, 21, 24 and 27 degrees – has a titanium A.I.-designed clubface that yields power and distance. The oversized titanium body sports Callaway’s patented triaxial carbon crown. And triple MIM weighting translates to extreme forgiveness and a piercing trajectory. Tungsten and steel speed cartridges in each clubhead help position the center of gravity in a perfect spot for a mightier launch, as well. All of this adds up to visibly longer shots with nice accuracy – all from a smaller clubhead that looks pretty easy to hit at address.
Callaway confidently bills this as a club for golfers who want fairway wood power and a hybrid’s versatility – claiming it’s made specifically to be easier to hit than a fairway wood and give you the confidence to navigate demanding shots, such as tee shots down narrow fairways and long approaches.
The clubheads are quickly and easily adjustable via the lightweight OptiFit 3 hosel, helping you fine-tune the loft, ball flight and launch. The deep blue clubhead looks fantastic at address, positioned behind the ball. Plus I find the squared-off toe really quite attractive and confidence-inspiring.
I took the Super Hybrids out to play a recent round and let my friend also play them. We were quickly hooked. Both of us loved the rocketing ball flight and the soft-yet-solid thump-like impact sound. It was all very satisfying. Then there was the distance: It was definitely longer than the usual hybrids I’ve been playing for the past year. And I also thought the Callaways were straighter. My buddy felt even stronger about the distance and direction – I could see how powerful they worked for his game compared to his regular clubs. And by the way, we were playing on soft grass early in the morning, when there wasn’t a lot of bounce to shots. So much of our distance was pure carry. I am really looking forward to a round using these when the fairways are drier and livelier.
So if you’re in the market for new hybrids, I encourage you to try these out. Your mileage may vary of course, but they’re worthy of consideration.
