The 2023 Paradym iron was a huge success in many ways, as Callaway created a performance iron that was compact and appealed to a wide range of handicaps, but dispersion was its Achilles heel. So, it was interesting to see if the latest Paradym AI Smoke iron had managed to address this issue. With the 2023 Paradym head remaining in the current range, the addition of AI Smoke irons is targeting players with high-to-mid swing speeds who are searching for maximum distance and improved dispersion.
The Technology
Callaway is claiming to be pioneering an industry-first with their new AI Smart Face, combined with data from thousands of real golfers with endless simulated data. This should theoretically address the dispersion issue in the same way they have achieved success with their driver development. Using thousands of recorded shots by real golfers of all abilities, the AI technology is used to build a face that provides maximum distance and tighter dispersion.
The clubs are ¼ inch longer in the mid and long irons, helping to deliver the benefit of additional distance to golfers. The Paradym AI Smoke irons feature a modern shape and hollow-body construction with longer blade lengths than we’re used to seeing in Callaway game-improvement irons, thinner toplines, and optimised sole widths to create a forgiving yet streamlined look at address. We also see the use of a new Dynamic Sole Design, with a pre-worn leading edge of variable bounce, helping to cut through the turf with extreme efficiency. This design aims to promote crisp contact on all shots while providing extra forgiveness.
Looks
Game improvement irons tend to have bulky head designs with large amounts of offset, but at address, you will be instantly surprised by how sleek the profile of the head is. The long blade length and refined top line combine to create a quite slender-looking iron, setting it apart from other irons in this category. It would be very easy to market these as player distance irons. I also prefer the smoked steel head with carbon highlights over the 2023 Paradym as it’s a traditional look that will not date too quickly.
Performance
It came as no surprise that these irons went deep. The seven iron only has 28 degrees of loft and I was carrying the ball 12 yards further than my current gamers, but the apex height was lower; in fairness, it was like playing a five iron. This is why I think the HL is the better club, as you need the added tungsten to get the ball airborne, especially if you have a moderate to low swing speed. Dispersion is noticeably tighter than the 2023 Paradym, but don’t fear weakening the lofts with your fitter to get the gapping right. This will also help tighten the dispersion as I was getting the odd flier due to the stronger lofts and increased shaft length. Hitting a pitching wedge 160 yards is impressive when bragging to your buddies, but not when you need to buy three more wedges to gap down to 100 yards.
Pros
Performance, forgiveness, and looks.
Cons
You still need speed to get the most out of the technology unless you get fitted correctly and find the right head and loft combos for your game.
