Yonex Ezone XP

Brand: Yonex
Game improvement iron: Ezone XP
RRP: £649 Best price: £549
Loft: 27-degree Lie: 62-degree
Length: 37.5” Swing Weight:  D0-D3
Shaft: N.S.PRO950GH Grip: Original Rubber

Summary: The new Yonex Ezone XP [standing for extra power] uses a counterbalance design with the goal of providing faster ball speeds and distance for the average player. To do this, Yonex increased the head weight by 4g and placed 20g of tungsten powder in the grip, which moves the balance point of the shaft closer to the butt end. The result is a heavier, more powerful clubhead that doesn't feel heavier. These strong-lofted clubs also feature a dual-cavity design for added forgiveness and an updated sole that reduces turf drag.

Appearance: Pleasant-looking at address and a little more toned down than previous Yonex irons. Slightly larger head and huge sweetspot produces an increased MOI for increased accuracy and that helped instil us with confidence while standing over the ball. In terms of the topline, it’s a little on the thick side but by no means off-putting. 3.75 (out of 5)

Feel: Lightweight and counterbalanced shaft works in conjunction with the Dual Tungsten Power [DTP] System and helps generate higher swing speeds for added power off the tee. It's a very light shaft, the lightest in this test but the extra weight in the butt-end of grip counterbalances everything nicely. All of us found it a little loud at impact and grip not the most comfortable. 8.25 (out of 10)

Performance: Above-average distance. Not the most forgiving iron in this test but solid enough. The secondary deep cavity immediately behind the face enhances the area of maximum repulsion and really helps to increase power and distance. Despite the small amount of offset, we didn't feel like we could work the ball as well as others. 8 (out of 10)

Verdict: Counterbalanced design to irons is interesting. We've seen it with putters but never before with irons. Incredibly light shaft and heavier head, although a slightly unusual concept, works together nicely. A real distance enhancer but not the greatest offline dispersion pattern across the board. While feel there are better value-for-money irons on the market at the moment, we certainly wouldn't put you off them if you're a fan of Yonex. 20 (out of 25)

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