Initial Thoughts:
The TaylorMade Stealth irons are incredible, what makes them so great is they fit the profile for so many types of golfers, from mid to high handicap players and even seniors and beginners.
I am a scratch golfer so these irons are not built for me, however in my testing I swung at different speeds to try to get the best overview for each golfer. My findings below will shock you.
With technologies like the Cap Back™ Design, Echo Dampening System and Speed Packet there is no wonder why these irons perform so well. Not to mention their incredible look in your bag and at the address position.
Let’s dive into the full review below.
Key Features of the Stealth Irons:
Looks
We all know TaylorMade kills it when it comes to design, and they have not disappointed us here. The simple yet complex design of these irons are fantastic. They are sleek and give you confidence when you stand over the ball.
Performance
The TaylorMade Stealth irons performed best for the mid to slow swing speeds, this is due to the distance and forgiveness technology built inside them. Once your swing speed increases over the 85mph mark you start to see some inconsistencies with regards to distance control.
Having said this the Stealth irons would suit the mid to high handicap players and even seniors and beginners as their swing speeds would be more suited to the clubs. A low handicap golfer or someone that has a fast swing speed will have trouble controlling distance.
Have a look at the chart below on how they performed
| Speed | Distance | Spin | Launch |
| 60 – 70mph | 113m | 3166 rpm | 17.2 |
| 70 – 80mph | 139.6m | 3897.4 rpm | 16.5 |
| 80 – 90mph | 155.75m | 4494 rpm | 15.5 |
| 90mph + | 172.6m | 3802.6 rpm | 15.2 |
Control & Forgiveness
Being a ‘game improvement’ iron you would think it would be difficult to shape the ball (high and low, fade and draw) however that was not the case. I was able to hit different shapes with ease. Of course not as easy as a Players’ iron, but not once did I feel like I was unable to hit the shot I wanted.
Forgiveness was unbelievable. I saw every little difference in shots that I miss-hit, with all of them still hitting the green. Of course shots that were miss hit completely were not great, but still better than I expected.
Feel & Sound
This is where these iron really shine. No one wants a loud clanky iron, which is usually what you get when you have a game improvement iron. But TaylorMade has really nailed down the sound and feel to give you the sensation of hitting a forged iron.
The Cap Back™ Design and Echo Dampening System is the reason for the awesome sound and feel off the face.
Value for Money
Are these irons expensive? Yes. Are there cheaper irons out there? Yes. Can you get something similar in performance for a cheaper price? No.
What you pay for and what you get is spot on. They are expensive, but you are buying the best in the business.
Technology – Features and Benefits
- 3D Cap Back™ Design & Toe Wrap Construction
TaylorMade incorporates a 3D Cap Back™ Design and Toe Wrap Construction that enhances flexibility in the clubface. This innovative design allows for weight redistribution from the toe to the deeper sole area, resulting in an impressively low center of gravity (CG).
As a result, this design upgrade offers remarkable benefits across the board: easier launch, enhanced forgiveness, optimal trajectory, increased distance, and an improved feel during gameplay.
- Echo Damping System
The inclusion of the Echo Damping System introduces a forged-like sensation by effectively redirecting jarring vibrations.
This is achieved through a specialized polymer-blend insert positioned behind the clubface. This intelligent system helps dampen unwanted feedback and provides golfers with a more comfortable and satisfying experience during their swings.
- Fast Forgiving Face with Progressive Inverted Cone Technology
The club features a state-of-the-art 450 steel face that is strategically engineered for optimal performance. This design incorporates a sweet spot that is thoughtfully positioned to cover the most common points of impact.
This results in consistent and reliable ball striking, giving golfers the confidence to excel in various on-course scenarios.
- Thru-slot Speed Pocket
The Thru-Slot Speed Pocket is a cutting-edge feature that significantly enhances the flexibility of the clubface.
This advancement translates to increased ball speed upon impact, contributing to greater overall distance.
Furthermore, the technology extends forgiveness by mitigating the impact of mishits that occur lower on the face, ensuring a more consistent and rewarding performance.
Who is the club made for?
These irons are ideal for mid and high handicap golfers. I can also easily see beginners, ladies and seniors using them too. I highly recommend going for a fittings, as there are loads of different shaft and head combinations to choose from.
Low handicap golfers and players with fast swing speeds (85mph +) stay away from these. You won’t get the consistency you need, stick to something forged.
Lets Breakdown The Pro’s & Con’s
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Loads of distance | Expensive |
| Extremely forgiving | Lack consistency |
| Great sound and feel | |
| Easy to launch and hit | |
| Great Design |
Our rating of the Stealth Irons:
Looks – 9.4/10
Performance – 9.5/10
Control & Forgiveness – 9.1/10
Feel & Sound – 9.1/10
Value for Money – 9/10
Total – 9.2/10
Alternatives to the Taylormade Stealth Irons
Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal Irons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely forgiving | Expensive |
| Incredible sound and feel | |
| Easy to launch and hit | |
| Classic iron look |
Read our full review of the Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal Irons
Callaway Big Bertha Irons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lots of distance | Quite expensive |
| Nice and forgiving | Not the best looking |
| Easy to launch and hit |
Read our full review of the Callaway Big Bertha Irons
PING G430 Irons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very forgiving | Very expensive |
| Easy to launch and hit | May sound clunky to some |
Read our full review of the PING G430 Irons
Our final say on the Taylor Made Stealth Irons
I loved these irons, you get unbelievable forgiveness as well as distance while still having the ability to control your shots.
Ideal for mid to high handicap golfers. I do recommend getting fitted for these irons, as there are many combinations you could go into.
Thank you for taking the time to read our review of the TaylorMade Stealth Irons.
