In recent years, a clear trend has been gaining momentum across every level of golf. From PGA Tour professionals to casual weekend players, more golfers are replacing their long irons—and in some cases even hybrids—with higher-lofted fairway woods like the 7-wood, 9-wood, and even 11-wood.
So, what’s driving this shift? Let’s break it down.
Tour Validation: Pros Leading the Way
Not long ago, fairway woods above a 5-wood were rarely seen in professional golf bags. That’s no longer the case. Players such as Adam Scott, Dustin Johnson, Bubba Watson, and Louis Oosthuizen have all turned to a 7-wood at different points in their careers.
Why? Because these clubs launch higher, land softer, and provide more consistent yardage gaps compared to traditional 3 and 4 irons. When the best in the world find an advantage, amateurs tend to take notice—and in this case, the benefits can be even more impactful for everyday golfers.
Why High-Lofted Woods Work for Amateurs
Long irons are notoriously difficult to hit well. They demand fast swing speeds and precise contact to get the ball airborne—two things many recreational golfers struggle with. Even hybrids, while more forgiving, aren’t always the perfect solution.
That’s where high-lofted fairway woods come in:
- Higher Launch & Softer Landing: The added loft makes it easier to get the ball in the air, especially for golfers with slower swing speeds. Shots also land softer, which helps hold greens from longer distances.
- Forgiveness on Misses: Larger clubheads and lower centers of gravity mean more consistent results, even on off-center strikes.
- Versatility: A 7-woo or 9-wood can be used off the tee, from the fairway, or even out of light rough—adding multiple options to your bag.
Filling the Gaps in Your Bag
Every golfer’s setup is different. For some, a 7-wood may replace a 3-iron or 4-iron. For others, a 9-wood could bridge the distance gap between hybrids and mid-irons. The key is to make sure each club has a purpose and fits your yardage needs.
Try a High-Lofted Fairway Wood for Yourself
At the Haggin Oaks Golf Super Shop, we’ve seen this trend take off among out customers. Players who once hesitated to move away from hybrids are finding more consistency and confidence with higher-lofted woods.
Curious if a 7-wood or 9-wood could be the missing piece in your bag? Call the Haggin Oaks Golf Super Shop at 916.808.2531 to schedule a custom fitting in our Player Performance Studio. You may be surprised at how much easier these clubs make your long game.
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