Callaway recently announced the release of the Apex Ai200 and Ai300 irons, successors to the popular 2021 Apex, Apex Pro, and Apex DCB models. The new irons have undergone a significant upgrade, with the Ai200 being a “players distance” iron and the Ai300 being a “game-improvement” club in line with the now-defunct Apex DCB.
The Apex lineup has been redesigned with a focus on enhanced aesthetics, improved feel, and better consistency compared to previous models. Engineers have worked on refining the appearance of the clubs from all angles, including at address, resulting in a cleaner, sleeker design. The irons feature a fully forged construction with a hard steel face and soft steel body to deliver a premium “tour-level” feel.
One of the key features of the new Apex irons is the Ai Smart Face technology, which leverages machine learning and artificial intelligence to optimize performance. The forged 455 Face Cup design enhances ball speed by extending further into the heel and toe, resulting in a more stable strike. In addition, strategically positioned MIM weighting and a Dynamic Sole Design improve launch, spin, and turf interaction.
The Apex Ai200 is designed for players looking for distance without sacrificing feel and consistency. It features a hollow-body construction, a thinner topline and sole, and a more compact profile compared to the Ai300. On the other hand, the Apex Ai300 is built for players seeking distance, forgiveness, and ease of launch while retaining feel and consistency. It has a cavity back design, a thicker topline and sole, and a larger profile than the Ai200.
According to Callaway, the new Apex Performance Series aims to deliver an elevated look, improved feel, and superior consistency. The company’s Senior Product Marketing Manager, Zack Oakley, mentioned that they focused on three key areas for the next generation of Apex irons. They wanted to cater to the player’s needs and set a new standard in the industry with these models.
The Vice President of R&D at Callaway, Brian Williams, highlighted the premium feel achieved in the Apex Ai irons through a soft carbon steel body and a high-strength face. The focus on spin performance was also crucial, with a strong emphasis on optimizing spin and launch for consistent ball flights. The Ai Smart Face technology played a significant role in achieving a healthy ball flight with increased launch and high spin.
In terms of performance, the Apex Ai200 irons offer a soft feel, controlled ball flight, and forgiveness. They are slightly oversized without being too large and provide excellent responsiveness. On the other hand, the Apex Ai300 irons cater to players seeking straight, high shots with forgiveness. They offer a soft feel and sound while ensuring ease of launch and long shots, regardless of where the ball is struck on the face.
The Apex Ai200 and Ai300 irons are available for pre-sale starting on August 15, with retail availability beginning on August 23. The price for a 7-piece set is $1,400, with individual clubs priced at $200 each. Overall, the new Apex irons from Callaway offer a balance of performance, feel, and consistency for players looking to elevate their game on the course.
