WHAT IT DOES: Ever since Callaway re-introduced the Apex irons in 2014, golfers have enjoyed the benefits of extra distance via its cupface technology. Wrapping around part of the sole and topline, the cupface serves as a mini-trampoline. Forgiveness wasn’t forgotten, either. A tungsten core (up to 64 grams in some irons) is enclosed in urethane with “microspheres”—tiny air bubbles encased in glass. The added weight helps not just shots struck on the heel and toe, but those hit low on the face as well. A redesigned sole helps golfers who tend to take too much turf on approach shots—a meaningful improvement over the company’s previous model.

WHY WE LIKE IT: A big part of having a successful club in this category is getting the shaping and feel just right, and the Apex achieves that. The topline offers just enough confidence without being too thick, and the soft 1025 carbon-steel clubhead delivers a pleasing sensation at impact, all while neatly hiding the horsepower that resides inside, including individual face designs (up to the 9-iron) conceived by artificial intelligence that provide the kind of pop that will have you pulling one club less.Read more >>