Ping’s popular i-series has two new entries – the i230 irons and iCrossover – that aim for avid golfers seeking new technology engineered to deliver precise control and consistency.
Dubbing itself “a players iron everyone can play,” the ultra-forgiving i230 irons employ activated elastomer technology to save significant weight, which is re-allocated within the clubhead to position the center of gravity low for more distance and control while increasing the moment of inertia for added forgiveness.
The low CG combines with greater face bending to deliver higher ball speeds. The elastomer reinforces the face, providing more consistent bending and energy transfer across the entire face, resulting in approximately three more yards of distance in player testing. Its higher MOI is largely due to tungsten toe and tip weights.
“The new i230 irons … has the precise control and consistency of a players iron with an amazing feel while offering the forgiveness of a game-improvement iron,” said John K. Solheim, Ping CEO and president. “It reminds me a lot of the iconic Ping Eye2 iron in that it will appeal to so many player types, from the tour pros to everyday golfers. It’s really packed with performance.”
The iCrossover is engineered for high-swing-speed players looking for long-iron alternatives – 2XR (18 degrees loft), 3XR (20 degrees) and 4XR (22.5 degrees) – that fit seamlessly into their set while delivering increased ball speeds for more distance with higher launch. With similar sole shaping, including the rounded lead edge and ample bounce, the iCrossover blade lengths are slightly shorter with less offset than previous crossover generations, making it more compact while providing a tour-style appearance.
The sources of the high ball speed are the thin, maraging steel face and lower CG position, which is closer to the impact location to produce more energy transfer. The face is robotically welded to the 17-4 stainless steel body with a lower-hinged bend point to provide higher launch for better stopping power.
The adjustable hosel provides eight settings for loft and lie, with a range of plus- or minus-1.5 degrees in various combinations.
“We’ve re-branded our Crossover category into the ‘i’ family to target golfers who most likely play one of our blade-style irons,” Solheim said. “The tour-inspired head size and sole design along with higher ball speeds help it to transition more seamlessly as a long-iron alternative. We’ve also added hosel adjustability, a highly beneficial innovation allowing golfers to dial in their trajectories for the first time in an iron-style design.”