Finding the right golf clubs can significantly improve your game, especially as a high handicapper. Fairway woods are a key part of the golf bag, known for their versatility and distance. They are great for hitting from the fairway or tee, which can help you get on the green in fewer strokes. These clubs can boost your confidence as you work on your swing and overall technique.
When shopping for fairway woods, it’s important to consider a few key factors. The loft, shaft, and clubhead design matter a lot.
A higher loft can help you get the ball in the air more easily, while the right shaft can affect your swing speed and comfort. Also, clubhead design influences how forgiving the club is on mis-hits, which is crucial for beginners or high handicappers.
I put a lot of time into researching and testing several fairway woods to find the best options for players like me who are still working on their game.
Best Fairway Woods for High Handicappers
I know how important it is to find the right equipment that can help improve my game. Here’s my list of the best fairway woods for high handicappers, designed to help make those tough shots a little easier and more enjoyable.
PXG GEN6 XF Fairway Wood
This fairway wood can be a game changer for high handicappers looking to boost their performance on the course.
Pros
- Excellent forgiveness for off-center hits.
- Adjustable shaft options cater to different swing speeds.
- Comfortable grip that enhances control.
Cons
- Price may be higher than other options.
- Limited brand availability at some shops.
- Might take time to adjust for beginners.
I recently gave the PXG GEN6 XF Fairway Wood a try, and I was impressed right away. The forgiveness it offers helped me with my confidence, especially on those tricky shots. Even when I didn’t hit the ball perfectly, I found that my shots were still flying straight and with decent distance.
The clubhead design really stands out. It has a large sweet spot that made a noticeable difference in my game. I noticed that my ball speed was more consistent, which is key for getting that extra yard on my fairway shots.
Plus, with the low and back weight, I launched the ball easily—definitely a plus when you want a good carry.
I also appreciated the variety of shaft options. It was easy to find the right fit for my swing speed. The grip feels great in my hands, enhancing my control during swings.
Orlimar Escape Fairway Wood
This club is a great choice for those looking to improve their game, especially high handicappers.
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Pros
- A variety of loft options suit different distances.
- Easy to hit from tight lies, boosting confidence.
- Low center of gravity helps with high launches.
Cons
- The shaft may feel heavier than expected for some.
- Sound and feel at impact can be unusual.
- Might require some practice to fully master.
I recently took the Orlimar Escape Fairway Wood out on the course, and it impressed me. The variety of lofts means I can really tailor my game. The shallow face made hitting from various lies surprisingly easy. I felt much more confident when addressing the ball, especially since I’m not always comfortable with hybrids.
The low center of gravity is noticeable. It really helps with getting the ball up in the air. I noticed that my shots landed softly on the greens, which is something I always want.
It’s great to see consistent, high launches that keep the ball in the fairway.
While I enjoyed the club, the shaft did feel heavier than I anticipated. It took me some time to adjust my swing. The sound at impact is a bit different, which some might find off-putting.
Wilson D9 Fairway Wood
This fairway wood is a great choice for anyone looking to improve their game with a forgiving club.
Pros
- High ball speeds even on mishits.
- Lightweight design for easier swings.
- Excellent feel and performance.
Cons
- Grip quality may vary.
- Some may find the look less traditional.
- Not suitable for left-handed players.
I’ve used the Wilson D9 Fairway Wood multiple times, and I really appreciate how forgiving it is on off-center hits. The variable face technology helps the ball launch high and fast, which is especially helpful when I’m under pressure on the course.
I feel like I can swing with more confidence knowing that even a slight miss won’t totally ruin my shot.
The design of this club is impressive. It feels balanced and sits nicely at address. Plus, it just looks good in my bag.
The lightweight construction has made it easier for me to get my swing speed up without feeling strained. I’ve been able to crank out some impressive distances, especially with my longer par 3s.
On the downside, I did notice that the grip can sometimes arrive with imperfections. My friend had to regrip his right out of the box.
Intech Behemoth Fairway Wood
I had a great experience using the Intech Behemoth Fairway Wood, especially considering its forgiving design for high handicappers.
Pros
- Huge sweet spot helps with off-center hits.
- High MOI design provides extra stability.
- Lightweight graphite shaft makes it easy to swing.
Cons
- Some might find the finish not very durable.
- A few users reported the shaft feeling weak.
- May not suit those with a preference for traditional designs.
When I first tried the Intech Behemoth, I was impressed. The club feels comfortable and confident in my hands. The large sweet spot allows me to hit the ball higher, which is something I appreciate as an amateur golfer.
I felt more relaxed knowing that even if I didn’t hit the ball perfectly, I still had a solid chance of getting decent distance.
The high MOI design really does make a difference. I noticed less twisting on impacts, which helped improve my shots.
Whenever I pulled out the 3 wood on par 5s, I felt ready to take on the challenge without hesitation. Plus, it’s lightweight, making it easier to follow through without feeling fatigued.
While I enjoyed most aspects of the club, I did notice some concerns about durability. A couple of friends mentioned issues with the club’s finish after some use.
Wilson Dynapower Fairway Wood
This fairway wood is a solid choice for high handicappers looking to improve their game.
Pros
- Exceptional distance and straight shots
- Great forgiveness on off-center hits
- User-friendly design for easy setup
Cons
- Some may prefer a heavier feel
- Limited options for left-handed players
- Adjustment period for newbies
I recently tried the Wilson Dynapower Fairway Wood, and I was pleasantly surprised. The first time I took it to the course, I noticed how effortlessly it sliced through the air.
I hit straighter shots than I usually do, and I even added some distance—about 15 to 25 yards, which really boosted my confidence.
What I liked most was the advanced head shape. It felt natural to align behind the ball, making setup a breeze.
With the rear weighting, it launched the ball higher than my previous clubs. That extra forgiveness really saved me when I miss-hit a shot.
Despite its strengths, I found the feel a little lighter than I’m used to, which may not suit everyone. Also, a few of my left-handed friends wish it had more options.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right fairway wood is important for high handicappers like me. Here are some key features to consider.
Loft
- Loft Angle: A higher loft helps get the ball in the air quicker.
- Options: Look for options between 15 to 25 degrees.
Shaft Flexibility
- Choose the Right Flex: A more flexible shaft can help me hit the ball farther and straighter.
- Common Flex Types: Regular or senior flex are often suitable.
Weight
- Head Weight: Lighter heads can improve swing speed.
- Balance: Make sure it feels comfortable during swings.
Face Design
- Large Sweet Spot: A bigger sweet spot helps improve my chances of a good hit.
- Face Material: Look for durable materials that offer good distance.
Length
- Club Length: Standard lengths are around 42 to 43 inches but can vary.
- Personal Preference: Consider what length feels best in my hands.
When I shop for fairway woods, I also check the grip. A comfortable grip improves control and helps me swing better.
Taking the time to consider these features helps make a more informed choice. I want a club that fits my style and boosts my confidence on the course.
