How to Choose an Iron Set for Beginners and Intermediate Golfers

Your irons are the foundation of your golf set. As a beginner or intermediate player, choosing the right set can make a huge difference in how quickly you improve and how confident you feel on the course. Here’s what to look for when picking your first (or next) iron set:

1. Prioritise Game Improvement Irons
Look for game improvement irons—these are designed with larger clubfaces, thicker soles, and perimeter weighting to help launch the ball higher, add forgiveness on mishits, and offer more consistency. They’re perfect for both beginners and intermediate players still fine-tuning their swing.

2. Go Cavity Back Over Blade
Avoid blade-style irons for now. Instead, go with cavity back irons—they have a hollowed-out back design that helps distribute weight around the perimeter, making them much more forgiving and easier to hit.

3. Choose the Right Set Composition
Most beginner sets include irons from 5 to 9, plus a pitching wedge. Some might include a 4-iron, but many players now prefer replacing longer irons with hybrids, which are easier to hit and more versatile.

4. Shaft Type Matters
If you have a slower to moderate swing speed, a graphite shaft can help you generate more clubhead speed and distance. Steel shafts offer better control and feedback, which might suit confident intermediates. Shaft flex is also important—regular flex suits most beginners and intermediates.