US Open 2015: Driving irons prove popular

Jordan Spieth, Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson and Graeme McDowell test driving irons at Chambers Bay

Andy Roberts's picture
Thu, 18 Jun 2015
US Open 2015: Driving irons prove popular

With Chambers Bay all fired up for firm, fast fairways, "driving irons" could be the weapon of choice at this week's US Open. 

Driving irons are bulked-up long irons that are designed to hit the ball higher and further than standard 1-, 2- or 3-irons. 

Their trajectory will be lower than most similarly lofted fairway woods and hybrids, but their lower launch angles and landing angles lead to a huge amount of roll - perfect for a course described by its designer as an "authentic links on steroids."

For most players, using a driving iron in favour of a driver will lead to greater accuracy and control because of its shorter shaft. 

Here are some of the driving irons likely to feature this week: 

Jordan Spieth 

The world number two has been testing a Titleist 712U 3-iron ahead of the US Open. 

The 712U has a traditional profile with a rounded back design that is preferred in the address position over cavity back long irons with more offset. 

Its deep centre of gravity results in a higher moment of inertia, increasing stability at impact, helping players achieve more consistent distance and trajectory control, whether hitting shots high or low. 

Graeme McDowell

The former US Open champion has added two Srixon Z U45's in 18-degree and 23-degree to his bag. 

The new Z U45 driving iron features a compact topline and more compact flange, giving it a powerful look at address. 

It has been forged from a soft, high-strength 1020 carbon steel and is designed with double laser milling grooves to aid better distance control and spin. 

Dustin Johnson

The big-hitting American has sided with a new TaylorMade UDI 2-iron in 18-degree. The UDI stands for "Ultimate Driving Iron."

It features a welded 455 carpenter steel face that is packed with a low CG and high ball speed.

The club is also designed with an advanced Speed Pocket for added distance and an advanced sound dampening system for better feel and sound.

Phil Mickelson 

The Grand Slam chaser has bagged a Callaway Apex UT in 18-degree. 

Callaway has used a sole weighting in the Apex UT to lower the CG, making them easier to hit and launch.

Its hollow body construction provides additional forgiveness, while the Carpenter 455 Forged Face Cup boosts ball speeds across the entire face to promote distance. 

Ever used a driving iron or are you settled on a hybrid? Share your thoughts in the forum, on Twitter, on Facebook or visit us on YouTube.