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Ping puts out an array of irons

For years, Ping has been making quality irons sets that were based on a single model, albeit a very good one. Then, within the past few seasons, the company expanded slightly by offering two styles based on a similar theme. Now, as it looks ahead to 2004, Ping will take its broadest swing yet with an array of irons specifically geared to many different playing levels.

The first expansive step Ping took was the debut three years ago of the i3 lineup, offering Blade and O-size models. That concept progressed late last year to the i3+ and i3+ Blade irons which were similar to the originals but with significant technological improvements (reviewed by GolfWeb in Jan. 15, 2003, column).

Now, in addition to still offering its i3+ sets, Ping has launched the S59 irons, which are a true blade style of club for advanced players, and the game improvement G2 series, which provides a multitude of club designs and set configurations for mid to higher handicap players.

“The i3+ is an important part of our iron offering,” explained Pete Samuels, Ping’s communications manager. “It is still part of our ‘fitting club’ mix in our iron carts. [But], the S59 and G2 expand our offering to a wider range of abilities and preferences. Choosing between the three models, in many cases, will come down to personal preference. One thing that is common: they all offer high performance.”

Viewed in terms of which type of player would probably prefer which model, the Ping lineup now ranges: S59 Blade, for pros and very advanced amateurs; i3+ Blade, a cavityback with “blade-like” performance for single-digit handicappers; i3+, a slightly oversized club for low to mid-range players; G2, a forgiving iron for mid to higher handicap levels; G2 EZ and G2L irons for men and women with slow swing speeds; and G2 HL hybrid clubs for those having trouble with long irons.

Here’s a closer look at the newest introductions from Ping.

S59 IRONS

“This is different for us, no doubt about it,” said Ping chairman/CEO John Solheim of the investment cast, stainless steel clubs. “[But], we’re now providing better golfers with something they’ve long been asking for from Ping.”

Engineered by Solheim and club designer Mike Nicolette, the S59 has a clean, classic-shaped clubhead promising exceptional feel and control. A bar positioned across the back of the compact head and a center of gravity located close to the face provide solid blade characteristics.

There is a slight cavity in the back, but it is minimal. And there is a slight, progressive offset designed to help make the long irons easier to hit. Additionally, the irons feature a thin top line and narrow, cambered sole; buffed sole and flange; and sandblasted face and top line.

In testing conducted by GolfWeb among skilled players, including some club pros, the S59 irons were given high praise both for their traditional looks and playability. “These are very good irons that better players will want to consider trying, something that Ping really didn’t have before,” said one club professional.

Available in Nos. 2-PW, Ping’s Z-Z65 firm shaft is standard for the S59 irons, which can also be fitted with the CS Lite steel shaft in a range of flexes. Suggested retail price is $130 per club.

G2 SERIES

Made with stainless steel heads, perimeter weighting and available with either steel or graphite shafts, the G2 roster is being touted as the most forgiving irons Ping has ever made.

“These clubs are extremely forgiving, launch the ball higher and feel fantastic,” said Solheim. “Plus, golfers can choose the set make-up that best meets their needs.”

The “G2 traditional” models comprise a full irons set, from 3-PW, along with sand and lob wedges. They would be the choice for mid to higher level golfers after considering the i3+ series; G2 technology moves the center of gravity away from the face, offers a slightly larger head size and a wider sole for enhanced launch and forgiveness.

In testing among a group of amateurs assembled by GolfWeb, the G2 irons were highly praised for their ease in getting the ball airborne, for smoothness through impact, and for trajectory and distance achieved.

For men and women with slower swing speeds, Ping is making the new G2 EZ and G2L irons, which are only offered in Nos. 7-9, along with pitching, sand and lob wedges. Most notably, these clubs feature larger loft differentials to provide meaningful distance gaps between each iron.

For those having trouble with long irons, Ping now makes four hybrid G2 HL (for “high launch”) clubs, in Nos. 2-5, which can easily be configured into the golf bag for players using G2 EZ and G2L irons; or, mixed into a G2 traditional set by pulling out counterpart traditional irons and using G2 HL clubs instead.

For example, one set configuration might be: 3HL and 4HL, along with G2 5-PW, plus SW and LW.

“Fitting continues to be a key part of the buying process,” Solheim pointed out. “With the multiple offerings and the flexibility of the set makeups, another dimension has been added to club-fitting.”

In testing, a consensus of amateurs noted positively that the HL clubs “make it almost impossible to slice the ball to the right.”

Suggested retail prices for G2 irons are $110 per club with CS Lite steel shafts; list price is $140 per club with a graphite shaft, except $135 for G2L clubs with graphite.
Source: golfweb.com