The popularity of high-lofted fairway woods, specifically 7-woods, has been on the rise in recent years, with many professional golfers opting for these clubs in their bags. While this trend may seem recent, the origins of the high-lofted fairway wood can be traced back to the 1980s when Lee Trevino popularized the use of the 6-wood. As a low-ball hitter who struggled with traditional long irons, Trevino found the 6-wood to be a versatile and essential club in his bag.
In a 1982 issue of GOLF Magazine, Trevino spoke highly of the 6-wood, calling it his “baby” and praising its ability to produce a towering launch with minimal effort. Unlike the mass-produced clubs of today, Trevino’s 6-wood was custom-made to fit his specifications and preferences. He selected a block of wood that was originally intended to be a 3-wood and had the clubmaker adjust the loft to create a 6-wood with a square face to suit his fade and ballwork tendencies.
To achieve the desired swing weight and performance, Trevino made additional alterations to the club, including a deeper clubface, a brass soleplate, and a stiff, tipped shaft. These modifications resulted in a club with a D5 swing weight that felt like hitting an iron or wedge, providing Trevino with the versatility and control he needed in various on-course situations. Trevino’s experimental approach to club customization paved the way for future pros and amateurs to embrace high-lofted fairway woods in their own games.
Trevino’s advocacy for the high-lofted fairway wood as a valuable tool for golfers of all skill levels has stood the test of time, with the 6-wood eventually transitioning into the 7-wood and becoming a staple in modern golf bags. As manufacturers added 7-woods to their product lines, the popularity of these clubs continued to grow, with recreational golfers and professionals alike recognizing their benefits, especially in challenging situations like extracting the ball from rough or attacking elevated greens.
The rise of the 7-wood as a mainstream club choice can be attributed to the influence of players like Trevino, who saw the potential of high-lofted fairway woods long before they became a common sight on tour. Trevino’s innovative approach to club design and his willingness to experiment with custom-made clubs set the stage for a trend that has now become a must-have for golfers looking to improve their game. Whether you’re a scratch player or a weekend warrior, the 7-wood’s versatility and performance benefits make it a valuable addition to any golfer’s arsenal.
