WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: TaylorMade calls it a “rescue” for a reason. For golfers who continually struggle to achieve any semblance of long-iron consistency, TaylorMade’s Qi35 rescues – also known as hybrids – can fill the void. With two easy-to-hit shapes boasting multi-material constructions and a re-imagined TSS weighting system, these creations are designed to save shots from some of the trickiest distances.
AVAILABILITY & PRICING: $509 each. Qi35: 17, 19, 22, 25 degrees, with adjustable hosel +/- 1.5 degrees; Qi35 Max: 20, 23, 27, 31, 35 degrees, with fixed hosel; Qi10 Max Lite: 23, 27, 31, 35 degrees, with fixed hosel. Available for pre-order now; at retail across Australia from January 30.
1. Weighty issue. Go through TaylorMade’s current club line-up and you’ll quickly realise several products feature strategically placed weights in the sole, Spider putters included.
Better known as TSS (TaylorMade Swingweight System), the adjustable weights can significantly alter performance depending on where they’re located. A single weight is placed further forward on Qi35 hybrid, just behind the Speed Pocket, for distance purposes, and rearward on Qi35 Max to induce a higher launch with more stability. If you’re somewhat familiar with common CG locations, the above should be self-explanatory.
Along with providing different performance benefits, the TSS weighting system was added to every loft in the Qi35 hybrid line-up to maintain consistent swing weights throughout the set. (The previous Qi10 Tour hybrid was the only model that offered a TSS weight in the sole.) This means you’ll be able to maintain the same weight and feel throughout the entire set if you decide to replace multiple long irons with Qi35 hybrids.
2. Tech time. The Qi35 hybrids boast similar technologies to the drivers and fairway woods, including a chromium-carbon crown section that redistributes weight from high in the head to strategic locations for better off-centre performance.
The carbon-fibre crown is combined with aluminium and steel to create two easy-to-hit hybrid shapes. A thru-slot Speed Pocket and TaylorMade’s Twist Face technology provide a standout level of speed and consistency.
For golfers who need to make on-the-fly adjustments to hit a specific carry distance, Qi35 boasts an adjustable sleeve with plus-or-minus 1.5 degrees of loft. The Qi35 comes with a non-adjustable hosel for those who prioritise launch, forgiveness and stopping power over the ability to adjust.
3. New kid on the block. Golfers will notice the Qi35 hybrid line-up doesn’t include a Tour version. The better-player model has been replaced this year by Qi35 Max Lite – a club designed for slower swing-speed golfers who want to generate more speed.
The Max Lite head shape mimics the generous Max profile, but all the components were designed lighter, including the shaft and grip, to make it easier to swing. The centre of gravity locations in the Max Lite were also modified for a more efficient transfer of energy from the tee and turf.