During my fitting I hit; Mizuno Pro 221 & 225. P770s, P790s. Ping i525, Wilson Staffs, Titleist T100 & T200. These Rogue ST Pros we're by far the best club for me. Best dispersion, distance and ball flight. I couldn't believe it really. I've never been a fan of Callaway ever, but I am now.
How have you fared over the last 7 months. I’m a high handicapper as well and getting fitted next week. I’d like try these, Mizuno 225 and cobra forged tec
Wow! I tested the Callaway Rogue ST Pros several weeks ago. I'm just getting back to the game after a 5+ year hiatus. Nothing else compares to these clubs. Hadn't picked up a club in that amount of time and after 3 shots with the 7 iron I was hooked. If it was a woman I would have married her on the spot. Since then, trying to save a few dollars, I have researched 'til I'm blue in the face! Nothing compares. All I can say is they are wonderfully sweet. I will get fitted and start gaming these wonderful clubs. Thanks for your review that confirms what I already knew. And they're BEAUTIFUL, too! By the way, it would be nice if your name appeared on your The Average Golfer website. Then I can address you by your name, friend.
I tried the 7 iron today during my fitting and surprisingly this was the iron I hit the best and most consistent. The fitter was well aware of my situation of not playing golf since 2007 due to a major car accident I was in that shattered my right pelvis and fractured my right knee. I haven't felt like I could swing a club anymore because of my lack of range of motion and issues I especially have moving laterally, but I've decided to get back into golf no matter what it takes. The fitter already had some irons chosen prior to me getting there and this was the last one we tried. This model gives great feedback, feels extremely soft when struck well, but doesn't give that vibration you sometimes get with miss hits. The other thing I noticed was how quiet the club was compared to the Taylormade Stealth and the Mizuno Hot Metal which were both clickier. Now I've never been less than a mid 80 shooter and I am looking for irons that are more directed towards the scratch - low handicap golfer because I want to learn to shape the ball more and become a better player rather than playing irons that are super forgiving that don't penalize me for bad golf. I want to learn to get better as a golfer by fixing swing mechanics rather than overlooking this part of the game because my clubs hide these issues.
I haven’t tried these irons, but you do make an excellent point. I agree, classifying types of clubs based on handicap is an issue worth exploring. IMO, the ones you should use are the ones that optimize your ability regardless of whether they are a blade, cavity back, hollow body etc.. And more importantly, the ones that you the most pleasure to play with, after all, it is just a game meant to be enjoyed.
Tried the 7 iron during a demo day at our new club. Ordered them immediately. I am 57 yrs old and about a 12 handicap (at the end of the season anyways :) ) Callaway offered the steelfiber shafts at no up-charge. Hit them better than my Srixon ZX5 which are only a season old and forged, but wow, I was getting the sweet spot every time. I have two rounds in with the full set and am still enamored with them. If you haven't hit them, do so. Also don't feel like the steelfiber shafts are for old men. These swing well and add height to the pattern.
Andy I’d have to say that promotion of one club over another based on handicap has influenced my choice of club when fitted in the past.I recently started gaming a set of forged clubs and couldn’t be happier with the feel and overall performance. They are my first forged and can’t imagine going back to cavity back game improvement irons. I am 62 and have a 22 handicap, so not a great golfer but certainly experienced 👍🏻🇦🇺 enjoying your content by the way.
I've only been playing for 3 years. I started with a set of Ping G700 irons R flex. I felt it was time to upgrade so I got properly fitted and they recommended Stiff flex and I was hitting the Ping i525 very well. I was trying to be budget-friendly so I looked into a comparable set to the i525 and landed on the Rogue ST Pro. I was put off that they said these irons were for mid-low hcp, but I'm more of a mid-high hcp. I was really hesitant about getting there but since I hit the I525 so well I decided to purchase the set. I love everything about the Rogue ST Pro. I love the look of hollow blade irons over CB. The look, feel, and sound of the ST Pro is amazing. I'm really glad I gave these irons a chance and I felt the same way that mid to high hcp players shouldn't be put off by these clubs. The price point also really helps compared to the competitors.
Awaiting delivery and I’m soooo excited. Got my fitting and these performed so well against all the others I tried (Ping, TM, Mizuno) - can’t wait to get back on the course
Attended a Calloway fitting 2-1/2 months ago. Went open-minded, allowing the fitter complete reign. Been playing Callaway X20 Pro irons which are 15-16 years old. After 45 minutes of hitting various shaft and head combinations, the results pointed me to the Rogue ST Pro. Ordered, and received in three weeks. Incredible feel, great sound, and best of all, an additional 10-12 yards depending on the iron. Never been able to really work the ball, however I am finding that I can hit a draw now at will. Have reduced my GHIN by two already, and highly encourage anyone to try these.
I've just been fitted for these and can't wait for them to arrive to bed them in over winter. I'm a mid handicap 17 but have been quite a bit lower quite a long time ago now. I struggled for a long time and then didn't play too much. Getting back into it now and my ball striking is getting back towards how it was. They are stunning clubs and I think quite easy to hit as well.
I agree that categorizing clubs by handy cap is a mistake. I like the way Titleist does it with their online fitting tool. It never asks you what your handy cap is. The questions are about what your ball flight looks like, what your divots look like and so on. From there it makes a selection for a club you should begin your fitting process with.
Andy let me start by saying what i am about to write and what you will read may sound ridiculous but and i mean but!! I just couldn't help myself. I currently game the Mavrik pro irons 4 through to gap wedge and think they are a fantastic iron,so when Callaway launched the Rogue ST irons i was immediately drawn to the pro version. I contacted my local pro but unfortunately Callaway had not sent the pro head in their custom fitting pack. This did not deter me as i had watched numerous you tube videos on the pro version and done my homework. I booked a fitting with our pro and he did the usual with my own club, taking numbers swing speed ,carry etc you know the drill. Then gave me a club with the mizuno analyser gadget on it to recommend a shaft. As expected it came up with the current shaft i use,the dynamic gold s300. So to get to the point i have placed my trust in Callaway and ordered the Rogue St Pro irons without even hitting them 🤔 Based on the fact that the st pro irons specs are exactly the same as the Mavrik pro specs and the same shaft in them i am confident that my iron play will be just as good but hopefully better when i get them out on the course. Madness or trusting i will let the masses decide but my mind is already made.👍🤣
Spot on Andy! I'm playing to a 9 and was hesitant to look at these. Gaming M6 irons now with Modus 105 steel. I went to a fitting so I could look at my options, (thinking Stealth or Sim2). Tried these and am really glad I did. I'm 64, and my 7 iron swing speed was fairly consistent @ 80 mph, so we looked at graphite in an R flex. Smash factor was fairly consistent @ 1.4 and the ball flight was beautiful! Ordered with the Aerotech Steelfiber fc80 shafts. Can't wait!
I agree with you Andy, a lot of people (including myself in the past) are or have been put off buy manufacturers classing there clubs/irons, and a very interesting point, forgiving irons etc that are meant for me, work on the range with beautiful matts etc, but don’t on the course they have an opposite effect. Thanks Andy as always, Paul.
8 handicap when I'm playing often. I just got fitted for these Rogue ST pros yesterday. Been playing 15yr old Taylor made rac OS's. Wanted to gain distance and i sure did. I was 155 max with the old 7 iron, now I'm carrying it 175. Got 118mph ball speed. The only other one that competed with the distance was the ping i 525. Tested the P790s, Apex and Ping i525. I hit these much more consistent than the others and my miss hits were very impressive too. Very forgiving. The overall feel might have been the best attribute. Man, they feel like Butter. Can't wait until the weather breaks and I can actually hit them outside.
I’m a mid to high but I would definitely go with the pro! Love the look and it makes me actually like what I’m playing and looks amazing and that means a lot to me.
I think you have to hit irons off grass to really judge them. I have hit pure blades from the 90s off mats and wondered why I would play anything else, then take them to the course and can’t find the center. Irons today are super confusing. There are so many irons marketed at the low to mid handicap player. It used to be you your choice was the forged blade pros or the perimeter weighted cast oversized iron for everyone else. For the single digit handicapper, you had to choose between two options, neither made for you. Now, you have too many options.
it’s also mentally, you try to almost swing different. ofc mats can get better results from a fat shot for example, but swing the same swing and get the same result
Great review Andy and totally agree with you. I tried the P790 great looking but found the Callaway longer softer and a better flight. I’m a senior 16 handicapper playing Stealth 2 which are very good but contemplating a move to player distance iron but must be forgiving.
Couldn’t agree more about ending the categories. I’m an 18ish handicapper who plays JPX 921 Tour irons. I hit 65% or more GIR and am absolutely horrendous at putting. I’ve seriously gotten a par after missing a 10 foot eagle putt and a 7 foot birdie putt that followed it. I improved from about 26 handicap to where I am now after going from oversized Adams cavity backs to these. Im lucky my local golf pro doesn’t buy into pigeon holing golfers into equipment based on handicap.
Just got fit for new irons yesterday. Did not have these on my radar. Thought I was going to get the T200s. My fitter had me try these and I thought they were fantastic. Very consistent and felt great, considering they are not forged (my last irons were forged). I now own them. I'm a 12 handicap.
I recently purchased a good second-hand set of Srixon Z565. Having played from Titleist to Callaway Apex Pro, I must say that Srixon is as good if not better than anything on the market. The cost of a set 5 to PW was 325.00. If you are looking at a set of clubs consider Srixon they are very good. I also have a set of i210's but Srixon are the best.
Starting to think the gap between between game improvement clubs and the 'players distance' iron is to narrow to notice anymore. They are all so damn good on the R&D side of things - that iron tech is light years ahead of where we were at 20 years ago. 'Super' game improvement clubs have their place for new players, or players whose swing speeds have 'dramatically' dropped over the years - But someone who plays once or twice a week regardless of 'handicap', is more than capable of playing the rogue pro, TM P Series, T200/100s, etc... Just my opinion!
Yup, especially with the advances in shaft and grip tech. Players distance irons are getting so close to game improvement that a new category has formed to fill the gap: players performance. Hotter than traditional forged irons but forgiving enough for many aspiring enthusiasts. I think the T100s and MP 223 are in this category.
Andy , thank you again for your sensitive and [close shave ] rationale as always on equipment and so-called pro-fitter or profit-er I should say…😎 Every time someone goes for a fitting they should ask for having a copy of the comparaison data sheet between the clubs they tried and not simply based their judgment on verbal bla bla bla from the fitter or vendor. A. Andrus from Montreal, Canada
You are right. When I got fitted I grabbed 5 kinds to try. Mostly all game improvement. The fitter gave me a players distance iron and said to try this. From the the 1 st strike I was blown away. After then trying several of those I went to that style and playing the best golf I ever had. That said, won’t go blades. Lol
I'm a high handicapper (currently sitting around the 32 mark). I have just had an iron fitting and tried these clubs and all I can say is wow. I have ordered a set as they, by far, felt like the club I had the most control over.
I agree. Stopped by my fave golf store and fitter to schedule a fitting. Been using same fitter for years. I developed issues with my right hand and needed irons with graphite shafts. I am a mid to high handicapper. He pointed me to the ST PRO. I went home and researched. I was a bit put off by the recommendations of lower handicaps. When I went for my fitting I was apprehensive trying the PRO even though I loved the looks. Glad I tried. I ended up with a blended set. 4 and 5 iron in the ST MAX, rest in the ST Pro. I absolutely love these irons. But, I wonder how many will not try because of who they are categorized for?
Bill, my local store let me try out the whole Rogue range and couldn’t believe it when i walked back in, saying they all improved my game, but the Pro was far more consistent and longer for me. I’m a 20+hcp, so they said, no no, they are for single digit hcp’s, lol. The other rogues felt a lot like my old clubs, but always head heavy and i was having to control that along with the bigger head (forgiveness?) meaning i was less accurate with my swing…. The pros, butter in my hands, sweet sounding, my duff shots were still great compared to my old clubs…. I’m sold. Don’t care about the pro label, when you know you know, you have confidence and can grow with these irons.
@@briandickie7264 I can honestly say the ST Pro’s and ST Max are my favorite irons of all time. Prior to I was a Mizuno guy for years. Tried the 225’s and I was not good enough to play them. The ST Pro’s are easy to get in the air and forgiving. For a blade like iron, that is a winner. Along with the UST Mamiya Dart graphite shafts these are just amazing and the feel is oh so smooth!
Sir, I must totally agree with your thoughts and observations on the Rogue ST Pro irons. I recently bought a full set from my local golf shop (4 - A wedge) and further ordered a 3i from the Callaway web site. I must say, I’m duly impressed by the distances that I get from these clubs. It’s like I’m 36 y/o again. Lol. I love my new “pseudo” blades. Cheers
So I had a fitting yesterday. I'm a 19HC I tried alot of different clubs, the i525, Mizuno, P790 but these clubs stood out by a long shot for me personally. All with a 110g Stiff shaft. This thing just explodes off the face at impact and feels super nice. I found it to be way more forgiving then the p790 l, infact I couldn't even hit that club very well. The ping came in a 2nd, but the Callaway won out by a country mile.
I know this is an old video, but I just tried a bunch of irons today. I'm a player just returning to the game, haven't played much in the past decade. I expected to be looking for game improvement irons but they were going miles long with bad flight paths. They upped me to way thinner clubs like the p770. Hit those so much better even though I'm a player looking to break 100. So I definitely agree with your point that you can't necessarily sort clubs by handicap. Swing speed seems to be the bigger factor.
Put these in my bag, played my first round with them and am impressed with the control, distance and feel…awesome product….put the TT Elevate MPH 95 shafts…can’t wait to play my next round!
I should have added that I was fitted at the Callaway Performance Center…hit a couple hundred balls with different shaft and club head combinations…the Rogue ST Pro irons performed the best for me. Currently a 8 index and looking for to driving that down!
I just tried this club today, 7 iron with UST Recoil 110 F4 shaft. It looks great and sounds quite nice, not harsh or clicky at all. I also liked the sole width, not too wide as I find wide soles for me do not work as I get bad turf interaction with the club getting hung up. All in all a very nice club, I still like the Mizuno 225 better as it feels a bit softer and the sole is a little bit narrower.
I agree with your sentiment here, I recently got fitted for new clubs. I wanted Callaway but tried most others just in case. The Apex were my favourite but I ended buying the Apex Pro’s. They are fantastic, the feel from club face is fantastic. The sound is fantastic too. They are so good at address, slightly less offset than my old irons. Love them. I too, really wouldn’t have thought about these if I had listened to the categories from the manufacturers. Try everything and go with your gut.
I agree with you in terms of classifying clubs models based on handicap. I am a 12 handicap and recently got fitted for a New Rouge ST driver. Based on my handicap I should have fit into the Max D or Standard Max. Ended up getting fit for the Rouge Max LS. As it turns out, this was the perfect fit. Gained 10 yards and hit it much straighter than my previous driver (Mavrik Max). I absolutely love the Max LS. Just proves your point. Don't assume you "fit" into a specific category.
Based on you review I tried the Rogue St Pro. I am a 19 handicap and my gamers are the Callaway DCB. Well I can’t believe how good I hit these irons. Now just trying to accept the fact that I am hitting a player club.
Great review and like the P790 great looking iron for us mid handicappers. Prices certainly are high these days so have you tested the Wilson D9 forged irons which come out at £800.
Tried them a few different times just to be sure it wasn't a fluke and mine deliver soon. Improved ball striking, distance and feel so I couldn't agree more that these check all the boxes!!
Just got fitted today for these irons, I was blown away how easy they are to hit! Also how far I was hitting the 7 iron (average was 170yrds) my ball speed was up on average 9 mph and my swing speed was up 5 mph, looking forward to getting them in my hands out on the course.
Went into the PGA golf store. Started with the new srixon 7 , then I tried the new Mizuno's223 . Could not get the distance out of these two clubs so I tried the rogues ST Max OS and it was a game changer. Got my distance back with this club. Surprise me because I did not expect to try these clubs when I went in
I’ve always been partial to forged irons. Ive been playing Srixon the Z585 for a while now and the Z765 before that. I have been looking for a new set for about 6 months and I thought I had made my decision. Ive been fitted a number of times and generally know my specs. Here in the states, and probably most places, It’s takes some time to get golf clubs from the manufactures. I wasn’t willing to wait for months so I decided to look for what was on the shelf that generally fit my specs. I had settled on the Apex 21 and was about to pull the trigger when I decided just give the St pro a look. I didn’t know anything about the shaft, I had always played Nippons or KBS in the lighter weight. I went head to head with the Apex 21 and I was so surprised. The feel was different, the apex being a little softer but the ST pro a little more ball compression. The flight was outstanding! Not ballooning but higher and a better decent angle plus about 8 yards longer than the Apex. I found it very easy to work the ball both ways. Couldn’t help myself and bought them on the spot (which I never do). 4 practice sessions and 2 rounds so far. Also a bonus I haven’t played a 4 iron in years but It’s wonderful, as easy as my hybrid to hit, just as high and a little longer. If you have been even a decent ball striker and may have lost a little distance over time give these a look.
Great review. The Maltby Playability Factor have these as a super game improvement club. They rate higher than the Paradym irons which are listed as just game improvement.
Hi Andy, interested in your views on how these irons stack up versus the PXG0211 that you recently rated as best value irons 2021/22 (& which I have since purchased.......soon to be delivered followed fitting with Lawrence)
I too hate being pigeon holed by brands - I’m a newish golfer and hate having a ‘limit’ applied to my potential albeit I appreciate they are trying to guide our purchases.
I enjoy all of your test on new equipment and your feed back. Will you ever do a video on making your on clubs with club component's shaft's and grips?
So Andy, are these in competition with your 225s to make the bag? I went from P790s to 225s and at that time , did not have the chance to demo the ST Pro irons. They can’t be near the amazing forgiveness and FEEL/SOUND as the 225. Are they that good? Cheers and thank you for your thoughts.
Thought about it but during my fitting the 225’s launched in such a perfect window the fact that nothing feels like a Mizuno and they are gorgeous to boot were fortunate coincidence
Enlightening test. I've been a high-handicapper for decades, but have found I prefer "lower-handicap" clubs (e.g. early Ping i-series vs. g-series). Maybe your review will give me the courage to try something new!
I think you are so correct, I am still a high handicap but I hit my iron pretty well. My shot is so much more consistent when I switched from super game improvement to a set of sub70 cb, better truf interaction and better feel is more important than a tiny bit of forgivness
You definitely got my attention with your analysis of these irons Andy. I've been playing Callaway Apex irons for many years, mainly because of the forged feel and the sound appeal to me more than any other irons I've tried but after your review I'm definitely going to give them a try. Especially with this kind of price.
These irons work really well, perfect size, I think the p790 are too big. St Pro’s sound good good distance, I would have liked to see them in a brushed or satin finish because the shiny finish gets dinged up with time but I’m being picky here. I’m playing them with good results and enjoyment. Callaway continues to deliver!
Got a set of these recently. Fantastic feel and distance. But it's the height l get that makes these a great club...and in my opinion there's alot out there that looks better either. 10/10
Tried these this morning and was amazed by the offline and consistency %age.....to give you an idea 7iron was reading 76% consistency for an average curve of 15ft and offline from target line of 3ft......I think those stars have aligned
Tried this iron yesterday ( #7). It went super long even with range balls. The head felt super heavy. I play game improvement irons, but didn't have any issue playing this. I am guessing these are strong lofted but added tungsten weight helps maintain the 7 iron type flight.
The standard of my game is in the decline because of my age. I have played off 7 but now into double digits. If I was looking for some easier and more forgiving irons, if the word Pro was included, I would avoid them. You are correct with your observation.
Couldn't agree more about manufacturer placing clubs on so called handicap. Switched to a so called game improvement iron and have lost control in the scoring irons.
Great video. Nice looking club, and no I wouldn’t be put off trying a club that stated “pro” on it or was marketed as a better players club - I think that most average golfers have the ability to hit a nice shot or strike a club well - how consistently is a different question - but I would also say to someone try what you like the look of and if you hit it nicely then buy it…no one should care or judge what’s in your bag if it works for you.
Hit these comparing Apex DCB’s and it was really hard to tell a difference. Very similar performance but these kind of looked better behind the ball, almost like you could easily get under and behind the ball compared to the chunkier DCB
Great video and thanks for your HCP comment. If someone is playing decent golf now they shouldn't rely on advertisements to pick clubs. Best advice, go and get fitted by a pro and avoid the BS.
I’m interested in these irons. I recently bought the Mizuno Pro 225s. After using them for a few rounds, I’m very underwhelmed by then. Being a blade player looking for a bit more forgiveness, but still desiring the consistency of the blade, I found the Pro 225 to be a bit hollow sounding and I never seemed to be able to consistently hit the ball squarely. I thought it was me, so I took my blades back out, and I recovered that. Strangely enough, it seems like the more unforgiving a club is, the better I actually play. I can’t figure out why that is. I need an iron that has the consistency of a blade, but some added forgiveness and a bit more distance. The MAX line is too much of a shovel for me and I very much dislike all the offset. Maybe these are the answer?
Have to agree with you Andy currently playing the old rogue irons which I love but wouldn't consider myself good enough to play these because of the name
I've moved to hybrids and iron/hybrids. The most forgiving way to play imo. Of course I'm an old geezer. If I were under 50 my ego wouldn't let me play this way. I've always liked Callaway irons. Had a set of Apex a few years ago.
The main difference is looks - some people get confidence from large head, thick top line, visible tech. Some people like thinner top line and more compact heads. The dogma is that high cappers want more visual help (not totally true) - So the performance is kind of the same but its what suits your eye and confidence levels.
Not related to this video, but wanted to know your opinion on whether you noticed any upgrade between the pxg 0811 x+ proto vs their newer gen 4 0811 xf? Thanks
Andy, when you review clubs, could you try to "work" the ball. Hit a draw, fade, stinger, etc. It seems manufacturers are offering more forgiveness but is there an expense to it by reducing the workability? Might be nice to know.
Andy has piqued my interest, but having viewed the specs will proceed with caution in my search for a new mid handicap iron set. With a spec offset of .11 inches for 7 iron would encourage mid handicap to demo 4 or 5 times preferably on a golf course. Sometimes I get so jacked about the feel in a simulator that I don't realize how much I am off line.
Having been fitted, I found the fitter decided which category of clubs I should try. He decided that I should try the "game Improvement" category. I didn't have the confidence to test out other clubs.
Not put off at all. Just ordered my i525 even though I am a mid-high handicapper. Even the fitter was surprised how well I hit it and the level of forgiveness on my mis-hits.
Tried these a week ago and bought them on the spot! Incredible feel, better distance and dispersion than the P790. Can’t wait for them to arrive
During my fitting I hit; Mizuno Pro 221 & 225. P770s, P790s. Ping i525, Wilson Staffs, Titleist T100 & T200. These Rogue ST Pros we're by far the best club for me. Best dispersion, distance and ball flight. I couldn't believe it really. I've never been a fan of Callaway ever, but I am now.
I tested the max and pro. I'm a high handicapper and I went with the Pro and so far they have been working really well.
How have you fared over the last 7 months. I’m a high handicapper as well and getting fitted next week. I’d like try these, Mizuno 225 and cobra forged tec
Wow! I tested the Callaway Rogue ST Pros several weeks ago. I'm just getting back to the game after a 5+ year hiatus. Nothing else compares to these clubs. Hadn't picked up a club in that amount of time and after 3 shots with the 7 iron I was hooked. If it was a woman I would have married her on the spot. Since then, trying to save a few dollars, I have researched 'til I'm blue in the face! Nothing compares. All I can say is they are wonderfully sweet. I will get fitted and start gaming these wonderful clubs. Thanks for your review that confirms what I already knew. And they're BEAUTIFUL, too! By the way, it would be nice if your name appeared on your The Average Golfer website. Then I can address you by your name, friend.
I tried the 7 iron today during my fitting and surprisingly this was the iron I hit the best and most consistent. The fitter was well aware of my situation of not playing golf since 2007 due to a major car accident I was in that shattered my right pelvis and fractured my right knee. I haven't felt like I could swing a club anymore because of my lack of range of motion and issues I especially have moving laterally, but I've decided to get back into golf no matter what it takes. The fitter already had some irons chosen prior to me getting there and this was the last one we tried. This model gives great feedback, feels extremely soft when struck well, but doesn't give that vibration you sometimes get with miss hits. The other thing I noticed was how quiet the club was compared to the Taylormade Stealth and the Mizuno Hot Metal which were both clickier. Now I've never been less than a mid 80 shooter and I am looking for irons that are more directed towards the scratch - low handicap golfer because I want to learn to shape the ball more and become a better player rather than playing irons that are super forgiving that don't penalize me for bad golf. I want to learn to get better as a golfer by fixing swing mechanics rather than overlooking this part of the game because my clubs hide these issues.
I haven’t tried these irons, but you do make an excellent point. I agree, classifying types of clubs based on handicap is an issue worth exploring. IMO, the ones you should use are the ones that optimize your ability regardless of whether they are a blade, cavity back, hollow body etc.. And more importantly, the ones that you the most pleasure to play with, after all, it is just a game meant to be enjoyed.
Tried the 7 iron during a demo day at our new club. Ordered them immediately. I am 57 yrs old and about a 12 handicap (at the end of the season anyways :) ) Callaway offered the steelfiber shafts at no up-charge. Hit them better than my Srixon ZX5 which are only a season old and forged, but wow, I was getting the sweet spot every time. I have two rounds in with the full set and am still enamored with them. If you haven't hit them, do so. Also don't feel like the steelfiber shafts are for old men. These swing well and add height to the pattern.
Andy I’d have to say that promotion of one club over another based on handicap has influenced my choice of club when fitted in the past.I recently started gaming a set of forged clubs and couldn’t be happier with the feel and overall performance. They are my first forged and can’t imagine going back to cavity back game improvement irons. I am 62 and have a 22 handicap, so not a great golfer but certainly experienced 👍🏻🇦🇺 enjoying your content by the way.
I've only been playing for 3 years. I started with a set of Ping G700 irons R flex. I felt it was time to upgrade so I got properly fitted and they recommended Stiff flex and I was hitting the Ping i525 very well. I was trying to be budget-friendly so I looked into a comparable set to the i525 and landed on the Rogue ST Pro. I was put off that they said these irons were for mid-low hcp, but I'm more of a mid-high hcp. I was really hesitant about getting there but since I hit the I525 so well I decided to purchase the set. I love everything about the Rogue ST Pro. I love the look of hollow blade irons over CB. The look, feel, and sound of the ST Pro is amazing. I'm really glad I gave these irons a chance and I felt the same way that mid to high hcp players shouldn't be put off by these clubs. The price point also really helps compared to the competitors.
Awaiting delivery and I’m soooo excited. Got my fitting and these performed so well against all the others I tried (Ping, TM, Mizuno) - can’t wait to get back on the course
Attended a Calloway fitting 2-1/2 months ago. Went open-minded, allowing the fitter complete reign. Been playing Callaway X20 Pro irons which are 15-16 years old. After 45 minutes of hitting various shaft and head combinations, the results pointed me to the Rogue ST Pro. Ordered, and received in three weeks. Incredible feel, great sound, and best of all, an additional 10-12 yards depending on the iron. Never been able to really work the ball, however I am finding that I can hit a draw now at will. Have reduced my GHIN by two already, and highly encourage anyone to try these.
Went out today to buy the P790's, then tried the ST Pro, they are now my new irons. Although, a four week wait.
I've just been fitted for these and can't wait for them to arrive to bed them in over winter. I'm a mid handicap 17 but have been quite a bit lower quite a long time ago now. I struggled for a long time and then didn't play too much. Getting back into it now and my ball striking is getting back towards how it was. They are stunning clubs and I think quite easy to hit as well.
Bought these this morning. Best clubs I hit by far in the fitting. Can't wait to try them thus afternoon on the course.
I agree that categorizing clubs by handy cap is a mistake. I like the way Titleist does it with their online fitting tool. It never asks you what your handy cap is. The questions are about what your ball flight looks like, what your divots look like and so on. From there it makes a selection for a club you should begin your fitting process with.
Andy let me start by saying what i am about to write and what you will read may sound ridiculous but and i mean but!! I just couldn't help myself. I currently game the Mavrik pro irons 4 through to gap wedge and think they are a fantastic iron,so when Callaway launched the Rogue ST irons i was immediately drawn to the pro version. I contacted my local pro but unfortunately Callaway had not sent the pro head in their custom fitting pack. This did not deter me as i had watched numerous you tube videos on the pro version and done my homework. I booked a fitting with our pro and he did the usual with my own club, taking numbers swing speed ,carry etc you know the drill. Then gave me a club with the mizuno analyser gadget on it to recommend a shaft. As expected it came up with the current shaft i use,the dynamic gold s300. So to get to the point i have placed my trust in Callaway and ordered the Rogue St Pro irons without even hitting them 🤔 Based on the fact that the st pro irons specs are exactly the same as the Mavrik pro specs and the same shaft in them i am confident that my iron play will be just as good but hopefully better when i get them out on the course. Madness or trusting i will let the masses decide but my mind is already made.👍🤣
Spot on Andy! I'm playing to a 9 and was hesitant to look at these. Gaming M6 irons now with Modus 105 steel. I went to a fitting so I could look at my options, (thinking Stealth or Sim2). Tried these and am really glad I did. I'm 64, and my 7 iron swing speed was fairly consistent @ 80 mph, so we looked at graphite in an R flex. Smash factor was fairly consistent @ 1.4 and the ball flight was beautiful! Ordered with the Aerotech Steelfiber fc80 shafts. Can't wait!
I agree with you Andy, a lot of people (including myself in the past) are or have been put off buy manufacturers classing there clubs/irons, and a very interesting point, forgiving irons etc that are meant for me, work on the range with beautiful matts etc, but don’t on the course they have an opposite effect. Thanks Andy as always, Paul.
8 handicap when I'm playing often. I just got fitted for these Rogue ST pros yesterday. Been playing 15yr old Taylor made rac OS's. Wanted to gain distance and i sure did. I was 155 max with the old 7 iron, now I'm carrying it 175. Got 118mph ball speed. The only other one that competed with the distance was the ping i 525. Tested the P790s, Apex and Ping i525. I hit these much more consistent than the others and my miss hits were very impressive too. Very forgiving. The overall feel might have been the best attribute. Man, they feel like Butter. Can't wait until the weather breaks and I can actually hit them outside.
I’m a mid to high but I would definitely go with the pro! Love the look and it makes me actually like what I’m playing and looks amazing and that means a lot to me.
I think you have to hit irons off grass to really judge them. I have hit pure blades from the 90s off mats and wondered why I would play anything else, then take them to the course and can’t find the center. Irons today are super confusing. There are so many irons marketed at the low to mid handicap player. It used to be you your choice was the forged blade pros or the perimeter weighted cast oversized iron for everyone else. For the single digit handicapper, you had to choose between two options, neither made for you. Now, you have too many options.
it’s also mentally, you try to almost swing different. ofc mats can get better results from a fat shot for example, but swing the same swing and get the same result
Great review Andy and totally agree with you. I tried the P790 great looking but found the Callaway longer softer and a better flight.
I’m a senior 16 handicapper playing Stealth 2 which are very good but contemplating a move to player distance iron but must be forgiving.
Hit one ball with these and I knew right away it was the winner. Just feels so good.
Couldn’t agree more about ending the categories. I’m an 18ish handicapper who plays JPX 921 Tour irons. I hit 65% or more GIR and am absolutely horrendous at putting. I’ve seriously gotten a par after missing a 10 foot eagle putt and a 7 foot birdie putt that followed it. I improved from about 26 handicap to where I am now after going from oversized Adams cavity backs to these. Im lucky my local golf pro doesn’t buy into pigeon holing golfers into equipment based on handicap.
Just got fit for new irons yesterday. Did not have these on my radar. Thought I was going to get the T200s. My fitter had me try these and I thought they were fantastic. Very consistent and felt great, considering they are not forged (my last irons were forged). I now own them. I'm a 12 handicap.
Would love to see a comparison video between these rogue pro st’s vs Ping i525!
I recently purchased a good second-hand set of Srixon Z565. Having played from Titleist to Callaway Apex Pro, I must say that Srixon is as good if not better than anything on the market. The cost of a set 5 to PW was 325.00. If you are looking at a set of clubs consider Srixon they are very good. I also have a set of i210's but Srixon are the best.
Starting to think the gap between between game improvement clubs and the 'players distance' iron is to narrow to notice anymore. They are all so damn good on the R&D side of things - that iron tech is light years ahead of where we were at 20 years ago. 'Super' game improvement clubs have their place for new players, or players whose swing speeds have 'dramatically' dropped over the years - But someone who plays once or twice a week regardless of 'handicap', is more than capable of playing the rogue pro, TM P Series, T200/100s, etc... Just my opinion!
Yup, especially with the advances in shaft and grip tech. Players distance irons are getting so close to game improvement that a new category has formed to fill the gap: players performance. Hotter than traditional forged irons but forgiving enough for many aspiring enthusiasts. I think the T100s and MP 223 are in this category.
Yet I play the best with 20 year old irons. Go figure 🤔.
Gorgeous looking club!! I had a iron set of the Rogue Pros a few years back and they were so very good. These look so much better appearance wise.
Andy ,
thank you again for your sensitive and [close shave ] rationale as always on equipment and so-called pro-fitter or profit-er I should say…😎
Every time someone goes for a fitting they should ask for having a copy of the comparaison data sheet between the clubs they tried and not simply based their judgment on verbal bla bla bla from the fitter or vendor.
A. Andrus from Montreal, Canada
You are right. When I got fitted I grabbed 5 kinds to try. Mostly all game improvement. The fitter gave me a players distance iron and said to try this. From the the 1 st strike I was blown away. After then trying several of those I went to that style and playing the best golf I ever had. That said, won’t go blades. Lol
The ST Pro works for a senior like me, introduced to them by Golf Principles. Impressive!
I'm a high handicapper (currently sitting around the 32 mark). I have just had an iron fitting and tried these clubs and all I can say is wow. I have ordered a set as they, by far, felt like the club I had the most control over.
I agree. Stopped by my fave golf store and fitter to schedule a fitting. Been using same fitter for years. I developed issues with my right hand and needed irons with graphite shafts. I am a mid to high handicapper. He pointed me to the ST PRO. I went home and researched. I was a bit put off by the recommendations of lower handicaps. When I went for my fitting I was apprehensive trying the PRO even though I loved the looks. Glad I tried. I ended up with a blended set. 4 and 5 iron in the ST MAX, rest in the ST Pro. I absolutely love these irons. But, I wonder how many will not try because of who they are categorized for?
Bill, my local store let me try out the whole Rogue range and couldn’t believe it when i walked back in, saying they all improved my game, but the Pro was far more consistent and longer for me. I’m a 20+hcp, so they said, no no, they are for single digit hcp’s, lol. The other rogues felt a lot like my old clubs, but always head heavy and i was having to control that along with the bigger head (forgiveness?) meaning i was less accurate with my swing…. The pros, butter in my hands, sweet sounding, my duff shots were still great compared to my old clubs…. I’m sold. Don’t care about the pro label, when you know you know, you have confidence and can grow with these irons.
@@briandickie7264 I can honestly say the ST Pro’s and ST Max are my favorite irons of all time. Prior to I was a Mizuno guy for years. Tried the 225’s and I was not good enough to play them. The ST Pro’s are easy to get in the air and forgiving. For a blade like iron, that is a winner. Along with the UST Mamiya Dart graphite shafts these are just amazing and the feel is oh so smooth!
Nice little video Andy, I've been looking at these, but then again, I saw some second hand PXG's which also peaked my interest.
Sir, I must totally agree with your thoughts and observations on the Rogue ST Pro irons. I recently bought a full set from my local golf shop (4 - A wedge) and further ordered a 3i from the Callaway web site. I must say, I’m duly impressed by the distances that I get from these clubs. It’s like I’m 36 y/o again. Lol. I love my new “pseudo” blades. Cheers
Tried a couple of irons with my pro on a lesson - incredible; so good ive booked a fitting next tuesday - im getting some!
st pros still worth to get or paradigm?
So I had a fitting yesterday. I'm a 19HC I tried alot of different clubs, the i525, Mizuno, P790 but these clubs stood out by a long shot for me personally. All with a 110g Stiff shaft. This thing just explodes off the face at impact and feels super nice. I found it to be way more forgiving then the p790 l, infact I couldn't even hit that club very well. The ping came in a 2nd, but the Callaway won out by a country mile.
I know this is an old video, but I just tried a bunch of irons today.
I'm a player just returning to the game, haven't played much in the past decade. I expected to be looking for game improvement irons but they were going miles long with bad flight paths.
They upped me to way thinner clubs like the p770. Hit those so much better even though I'm a player looking to break 100.
So I definitely agree with your point that you can't necessarily sort clubs by handicap. Swing speed seems to be the bigger factor.
Put these in my bag, played my first round with them and am impressed with the control, distance and feel…awesome product….put the TT Elevate MPH 95 shafts…can’t wait to play my next round!
I should have added that I was fitted at the Callaway Performance Center…hit a couple hundred balls with different shaft and club head combinations…the Rogue ST Pro irons performed the best for me. Currently a 8 index and looking for to driving that down!
I got fit for these last week and love them. And I'm an 18 hcp!
I just tried this club today, 7 iron with UST Recoil 110 F4 shaft. It looks great and sounds quite nice, not harsh or clicky at all. I also liked the sole width, not too wide as I find wide soles for me do not work as I get bad turf interaction with the club getting hung up. All in all a very nice club, I still like the Mizuno 225 better as it feels a bit softer and the sole is a little bit narrower.
I agree with your sentiment here, I recently got fitted for new clubs. I wanted Callaway but tried most others just in case. The Apex were my favourite but I ended buying the Apex Pro’s. They are fantastic, the feel from club face is fantastic. The sound is fantastic too. They are so good at address, slightly less offset than my old irons. Love them. I too, really wouldn’t have thought about these if I had listened to the categories from the manufacturers. Try everything and go with your gut.
I just went and traded my Ping i500’s for these because of this video and love the way they feel great video!!
I agree with you in terms of classifying clubs models based on handicap. I am a 12 handicap and recently got fitted for a New Rouge ST driver. Based on my handicap I should have fit into the Max D or Standard Max. Ended up getting fit for the Rouge Max LS. As it turns out, this was the perfect fit. Gained 10 yards and hit it much straighter than my previous driver (Mavrik Max). I absolutely love the Max LS. Just proves your point. Don't assume you "fit" into a specific category.
Based on you review I tried the Rogue St Pro. I am a 19 handicap and my gamers are the Callaway DCB. Well I can’t believe how good I hit these irons. Now just trying to accept the fact that I am hitting a player club.
Great review and like the P790 great looking iron for us mid handicappers. Prices certainly are high these days so have you tested the Wilson D9 forged irons which come out at £800.
Tried them a few different times just to be sure it wasn't a fluke and mine deliver soon. Improved ball striking, distance and feel so I couldn't agree more that these check all the boxes!!
Just got fitted today for these irons, I was blown away how easy they are to hit! Also how far I was hitting the 7 iron (average was 170yrds) my ball speed was up on average 9 mph and my swing speed was up 5 mph, looking forward to getting them in my hands out on the course.
Went into the PGA golf store. Started with the new srixon 7 , then I tried the new Mizuno's223 . Could not get the distance out of these two clubs so I tried the rogues ST Max OS and it was a game changer. Got my distance back with this club. Surprise me because I did not expect to try these clubs when I went in
Same happened to me. Left w the Rogue ST max
Good job doc! What do you do for somebody to have the thyroid and plenty energy and healthy? Please help. AZ
I’ve always been partial to forged irons. Ive been playing Srixon the Z585 for a while now and the Z765 before that. I have been looking for a new set for about 6 months and I thought I had made my decision. Ive been fitted a number of times and generally know my specs. Here in the states, and probably most places, It’s takes some time to get golf clubs from the manufactures. I wasn’t willing to wait for months so I decided to look for what was on the shelf that generally fit my specs. I had settled on the Apex 21 and was about to pull the trigger when I decided just give the St pro a look. I didn’t know anything about the shaft, I had always played Nippons or KBS in the lighter weight. I went head to head with the Apex 21 and I was so surprised. The feel was different, the apex being a little softer but the ST pro a little more ball compression. The flight was outstanding! Not ballooning but higher and a better decent angle plus about 8 yards longer than the Apex. I found it very easy to work the ball both ways. Couldn’t help myself and bought them on the spot (which I never do). 4 practice sessions and 2 rounds so far. Also a bonus I haven’t played a 4 iron in years but It’s wonderful, as easy as my hybrid to hit, just as high and a little longer. If you have been even a decent ball striker and may have lost a little distance over time give these a look.
Great review. The Maltby Playability Factor have these as a super game improvement club. They rate higher than the Paradym irons which are listed as just game improvement.
Hi Andy, interested in your views on how these irons stack up versus the PXG0211 that you recently rated as best value irons 2021/22 (& which I have since purchased.......soon to be delivered followed fitting with Lawrence)
I’m a scratch player and I switched from the apex pro to the Rogue st pros. The distance is incredible.
How do these compare to the PXG 0211 that you have gamed in the past? Keep up the great work Andy!
I too hate being pigeon holed by brands - I’m a newish golfer and hate having a ‘limit’ applied to my potential albeit I appreciate they are trying to guide our purchases.
I enjoy all of your test on new equipment and your feed back. Will you ever do a video on
making your on clubs with club component's shaft's and grips?
So Andy, are these in competition with your 225s to make the bag? I went from P790s to 225s and at that time , did not have the chance to demo the ST Pro irons. They can’t be near the amazing forgiveness and FEEL/SOUND as the 225. Are they that good?
Cheers and thank you for your thoughts.
Thought about it but during my fitting the 225’s launched in such a perfect window the fact that nothing feels like a Mizuno and they are gorgeous to boot were fortunate coincidence
the ST Pro felt better imo than the Mizuno 223
Enlightening test. I've been a high-handicapper for decades, but have found I prefer "lower-handicap" clubs (e.g. early Ping i-series vs. g-series). Maybe your review will give me the courage to try something new!
I think you are so correct, I am still a high handicap but I hit my iron pretty well. My shot is so much more consistent when I switched from super game improvement to a set of sub70 cb, better truf interaction and better feel is more important than a tiny bit of forgivness
You definitely got my attention with your analysis of these irons Andy. I've been playing Callaway Apex irons for many years, mainly because of the forged feel and the sound appeal to me more than any other irons I've tried but after your review I'm definitely going to give them a try. Especially with this kind of price.
How are these compared to the PXG 0211 DC? As you previously named the best feeling in the cast club category.
These irons work really well, perfect size, I think the p790 are too big. St Pro’s sound good good distance, I would have liked to see them in a brushed or satin finish because the shiny finish gets dinged up with time but I’m being picky here. I’m playing them with good results and enjoyment. Callaway continues to deliver!
Got a set of these recently. Fantastic feel and distance. But it's the height l get that makes these a great club...and in my opinion there's alot out there that looks better either. 10/10
Tried these this morning and was amazed by the offline and consistency %age.....to give you an idea 7iron was reading 76% consistency for an average curve of 15ft and offline from target line of 3ft......I think those stars have aligned
Thanks for the heads up Andy would have never tried it due to my level of the play
I have the original Rogue pro's and love them.
Just got some honma tr 21 x.. Gorgeous looking like these and easy to hit
You hit that iron extremely well. Good spin and control.
Tried this iron yesterday ( #7). It went super long even with range balls. The head felt super heavy. I play game improvement irons, but didn't have any issue playing this. I am guessing these are strong lofted but added tungsten weight helps maintain the 7 iron type flight.
Potentially a P790 slayer due to Callaway clever price strategy. High quality club, equally good to any competitor
The standard of my game is in the decline because of my age. I have played off 7 but now into double digits. If I was looking for some easier and more forgiving irons, if the word Pro was included, I would avoid them. You are correct with your observation.
Couldn't agree more about manufacturer placing clubs on so called handicap. Switched to a so called game improvement iron and have lost control in the scoring irons.
Thanks Andy, a great looking club. Another informative video. Andy did you give up your hitting bay or with winter your back indoor?
Great video and information for a hcp 24,2 from Denmark 🇩🇰
Great video. Nice looking club, and no I wouldn’t be put off trying a club that stated “pro” on it or was marketed as a better players club - I think that most average golfers have the ability to hit a nice shot or strike a club well - how consistently is a different question - but I would also say to someone try what you like the look of and if you hit it nicely then buy it…no one should care or judge what’s in your bag if it works for you.
Hit these comparing Apex DCB’s and it was really hard to tell a difference. Very similar performance but these kind of looked better behind the ball, almost like you could easily get under and behind the ball compared to the chunkier DCB
Andy how do you compare the Apex21 line and the new Rogue line ? Thanks
Do you think the silvered lettering on the black panel on the back might start wearing off with some club clatter in the bag?
Great video and thanks for your HCP comment. If someone is playing decent golf now they shouldn't rely on advertisements to pick clubs. Best advice, go and get fitted by a pro and avoid the BS.
I’m interested in these irons. I recently bought the Mizuno Pro 225s. After using them for a few rounds, I’m very underwhelmed by then. Being a blade player looking for a bit more forgiveness, but still desiring the consistency of the blade, I found the Pro 225 to be a bit hollow sounding and I never seemed to be able to consistently hit the ball squarely. I thought it was me, so I took my blades back out, and I recovered that. Strangely enough, it seems like the more unforgiving a club is, the better I actually play. I can’t figure out why that is. I need an iron that has the consistency of a blade, but some added forgiveness and a bit more distance. The MAX line is too much of a shovel for me and I very much dislike all the offset. Maybe these are the answer?
Have to agree with you Andy currently playing the old rogue irons which I love but wouldn't consider myself good enough to play these because of the name
I love my PTX pro Irons, entire set for under 800$ and they perform as good as my friends p790’s
How do these sound & feel compared to the PXG 0211 DC irons?
I have tried them and the are very good! Can you do a head to head with the Mizuno 225s please?
I've moved to hybrids and iron/hybrids. The most forgiving way to play imo. Of course I'm an old geezer. If I were under 50 my ego wouldn't let me play this way. I've always liked Callaway irons. Had a set of Apex a few years ago.
Nice looking irons sound good, what is the standard shafts and the lofts at that price. Interesting video👍
Andy, can you contact New Level and get test samples of the 902-OS... I would love to see your review.
The main difference is looks - some people get confidence from large head, thick top line, visible tech. Some people like thinner top line and more compact heads. The dogma is that high cappers want more visual help (not totally true) - So the performance is kind of the same but its what suits your eye and confidence levels.
Bigger head means i am less accurate. Seems like i’m an oddity lol.
What stiffness shaft was used in this demo?
Loving these irons and I play off 16
Not related to this video, but wanted to know your opinion on whether you noticed any upgrade between the pxg 0811 x+ proto vs their newer gen 4 0811 xf? Thanks
Andy, when you review clubs, could you try to "work" the ball. Hit a draw, fade, stinger, etc. It seems manufacturers are offering more forgiveness but is there an expense to it by reducing the workability? Might be nice to know.
Andy has piqued my interest, but having viewed the specs will proceed with caution in my search for a new mid handicap iron set. With a spec offset of .11 inches for 7 iron would encourage mid handicap to demo 4 or 5 times preferably on a golf course. Sometimes I get so jacked about the feel in a simulator that I don't realize how much I am off line.
What shaft was tested on these Rogue ST Pros?
When’s the ping i210 video coming out that you mentioned. 👍👍
Having been fitted, I found the fitter decided which category of clubs I should try. He decided that I should try the "game Improvement" category. I didn't have the confidence to test out other clubs.
Did these feel like the Cobra Forged Tec irons?
Not put off at all. Just ordered my i525 even though I am a mid-high handicapper. Even the fitter was surprised how well I hit it and the level of forgiveness on my mis-hits.