callaway x tour irons review

Callaway X-Tour Iron Review

It used to be that “Callaway” and “players irons” never went together in a sentence… unless the sentence was “Callaway doesn’t make very many players irons”. That’s not who they were.   That wasn’t the market that they were after. They would always make a Pro Series version of their “X” line, some of which …

It used to be that “Callaway” and “players irons” never went together in a sentence… unless the sentence was “Callaway doesn’t make very many players irons”. That’s not who they were.

That wasn’t the market that they were after. They would always make a Pro Series version of their “X” line, some of which were actually pretty good, but it wasn’t their thing. Callaway Golf set out to make golf fun for the average player… not make a blade for a lower handicap. Smart move… game improvement irons aren’t sexy but they sell!

The X-Tour was basically born on the day when Callaway Golf bought Hogan/Top Flite. Hogan made some of the best forged irons in the business and Callaway was looking to expand their line… and perhaps attract some Phil guy into their PGA Tour stable. Hogan had the forging and “players” club experience, and Callaway had a good design and a marketing machine to promote the new club. Would the public take this club seriously? Could Callaway “Kings of Forgiveness” Golf actually make a blade-like iron? Phil was hitting it… how bad could it be?

It turned out to be amazing. The Callaway X-Tour is a two piece forged iron. The first piece is the club face. The face is made from 1020 carbon steel and it is welded onto the cradle (the second piece). Callaway needed to make this club in two parts so they could incorporate some of their proven technologies… namely notch weighting and the undercut channel… into the club. The result is a very forgiving, very attractive and very solid iron.

The X-Tour doesn’t look like a Callaway club at all… it has a thin sole, a thin top line and a square toe. The iron features a fairly deep cavity and an undercut channel that increases forgiveness but these are hidden when looking down on the iron. The X-Tour also has a full hosel… something that Callaway has never used. It combines the feel of a forged Hogan and the forgiveness of a Callaway… that’s a match made in golf heaven! The stock shafts in the X-Tour are very good… Dynamic Gold steel (although they have been offering others at no charge too) and RCH Pro Series graphite (good but not a big seller).

Golfers love these clubs. They love the look, they love the feel and they love the forgiveness. Everyone asks about them and our testers were very excited to hit them. I think the comment I get the most concerns forgiveness. How many other “players” irons are good on miss hits? Not many. The ball flight is fairly high but if you want to bring the ball flight down, look at a Project X or Flighted Rifle shaft. Remember though… this club is designed for the better player… a higher handicap would be wise to look at a different iron. If you are a decent player in need of a quality iron… you’d be stupid not to hit these!

Overall Rating – 90%

Target Handicap: 15 and below

Ball Flight: Mid to High

Offset: Minimal

Construction: 2 piece forged

Stock Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold steel, RCH Pro Series graphite

Callaway X Series Irons Review

Callaway Golf is a renowned name in the golf industry, and the X Series Irons have been one of their most popular product lines. They are designed to offer golfers improved distance, accuracy, and forgiveness on every swing.

Here’s a detailed review of the Callaway X Series Irons:

• Design and Technology : The X Series Irons feature a cavity back design that offers perimeter weighting, which increases the MOI (Moment of Inertia) and forgiveness on off-center hits. The face of the iron is also thinner, which helps to increase ball speed and distance. The irons are made of a combination of steel and graphite materials, which provide stability and consistency in your shots.
• Performance : The X Series Irons offer excellent performance on the golf course. The perimeter weighting provides a larger sweet spot , which helps to maintain consistent ball flight and distance. The thin face technology also helps to increase ball speed and distance, making it easier to hit the ball further with less effort. The irons have a low center of gravity, which makes it easier to launch the ball higher and get it airborne quickly.
• Forgiveness : The X Series Irons are forgiving and easy to hit, even on off-center shots. The perimeter weighting and larger sweet spot provide forgiveness and consistency, even if you miss the center of the face. The irons also have a wide sole, which helps to prevent digging and makes it easier to get the ball up in the air.
• Feel and Sound : The X Series Irons have a soft and responsive feel, which makes it easier to control the ball and hit precise shots. The sound is also crisp and clean, which provides feedback on the quality of your shot.
• Customization : The X Series Irons are available in a wide range of configurations, including shaft material, shaft flex , and grip size. This allows golfers to customize the clubs to their specific needs and preferences.
• Value : The X Series Irons are priced competitively, considering the quality and performance they offer. They are a great value for golfers looking for a high-performance set of irons that won’t break the bank.
• Club Set Composition : The Callaway X Series Irons are available as a full set or as individual clubs. The full set includes irons from 4 to 9, plus a pitching wedge and a sand wedge. This makes it a complete set for golfers looking to replace their entire iron set or upgrade from a beginner set.
• Shaft Options : The X Series Irons come with a variety of shaft options, including steel and graphite shafts . The steel shafts are typically heavier and provide more stability, while graphite shafts are lighter and offer more flexibility, which can help increase clubhead speed and distance.
• Clubhead Size : The Callaway X Series Irons come in two different clubhead sizes – standard and oversized. The standard clubheads are suitable for most golfers and provide a balance of forgiveness and control. The oversized clubheads are designed for golfers who need more forgiveness and a larger sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball consistently.
• Player Type : The Callaway X Series Irons are designed for a wide range of golfers, including beginners, intermediate players, and even some advanced players. They offer forgiveness and distance, which can help improve the game of golfers who struggle with inconsistent ball striking.
• Price : The price of the Callaway X Series Irons varies depending on the configuration and the seller. Typically, the price range for a set of X Series Irons falls between $400 to $800. While this price range may seem steep, the Callaway X Series Irons provide golfers with a quality set of irons that will last for years to come.
• Appearance : The Callaway X Series Irons feature a sleek and modern design, with a chrome finish that gives them a premium look. The clean and classic design of the clubhead inspires confidence at address, which can help improve the golfer’s swing.
• Spin and Trajectory : The X Series Irons are designed to produce a high ball speed and a low spin rate, which helps to keep the ball flight lower and more consistent. This can be especially helpful in windy conditions, as the low spin can help to keep the ball on a straighter trajectory.
• Shot Shaping : The Callaway X Series Irons offer the ability to shape shots, making them a great option for more advanced golfers. The perimeter weighting and larger sweet spot make it easier to manipulate the clubface and produce the desired shot shape.
• Customer Reviews : It’s always a good idea to check customer reviews before purchasing any golf club. The Callaway X Series Irons have received mostly positive reviews from golfers, with many praising their forgiveness, distance, and playability. However, some golfers have noted that the clubheads may feel a bit heavy or bulky, so it’s important to try them out and see how they feel before purchasing.
• Warranties and Returns : When purchasing golf clubs, it’s important to consider the warranty and return policy. Callaway offers a 2-year warranty on their X Series Irons, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship. Some retailers may also offer a return policy, so it’s worth checking before purchasing.

 Callaway X Series Irons Specifications

Callaway x series irons material, callaway x series irons performance, callaway x series irons set composition,   callaway x series irons vs. titleist t-series irons,  callaway x series irons vs. taylormade p-series irons,  callaway x series irons vs. mizuno mp irons, callaway x series irons vs. ping i-series irons, callaway x series irons vs. srixon zx-series irons, callaway x series irons vs. cobra king irons,  callaway x series irons vs. wilson staff model irons, callaway x series irons vs. honma t//world irons, callaway x series irons vs. pxg 0311 irons, callaway x series irons vs. bridgestone tour b irons.

Ray Barnes, our Senior Staff Writer and a Golf Analyst with a PhD in Sports Analytics, is a beacon of insight in the golfing world. With a deep understanding of the sport's nuances, statistical analysis, and a talent for demystifying complexities, he provides in-depth analysis and captivating narratives that engage golf enthusiasts worldwide.

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2 thoughts on “Callaway X Series Irons Review”

I’m a big fan of Callaway golf clubs. I own a few of their irons and have never been disappointed. I’m looking forward to trying out the X Series irons.

Loved playing with them

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Forged Golf Irons

Callaway x-tour forged irons.

The Callaway X Tour Forged Irons were the first forged iron to be developed by Callaway. Designed by Roger Cleveland, the X Tour Irons combines the added benefits of forged irons with the features that Callaway enthusiasts have come to expect.

The X Tours have a cavity back that actually takes up the entire back of the club–a fairly rare feature, but one that maximizes the club’s forgiveness. Also, the 1020 forged carbon face is laser welded on the body, thereby providing a soft, desirable feel and a very forgiving clubhead. There are some who say, however, that while the X Tours do have a soft feel, it’s not as good as a Mizuno forged iron.

The two-piece design of the X Tour irons makes it so that Callaway was able to incorporate their 360 degree undercut channel with notch weighting, which allows for higher moment of inertia to make the club more forgiving as well as consistent. In addition, the slightly modified design of the hosel gives these irons a lower center of gravity for better playability.

Aesthetically, the X Tours have a cambered topline, making them look more traditional. However, compared to the Taylor Made TP forged irons, the X Tours seem a little bulky, but the added thickness increases these clubs’ forgiveness. Also, many golfers prefer the smaller head and squarer toe look that the X Tours feature. The standard shaft is True Temper Dynamic Gold steel shafts in flexes of R300, S300, and X100.

Overall, the Callaway X Tour Forged Irons are very forgiving, very versatile, and despite being a little on the bulky side, ideal for traditional, more accomplished golfers who are looking for maximum workability.

Callaway X-Tour Irons on eBay

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Callaway X-Forged Irons take the best the Callaway has to offer and combine it all into a set of irons that are perfect for elite golfers.

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A first from Callaway. A great looking Forged players club that feels good too! And yes you can even work the ball quite easily.

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Callaway RAZR X Tour Iron Review

By maverick April 23, 2011 in Equipment

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Great review on the Razr X Tours! I want a set.

[i][b]In the Bag:[/b][/i] Driver - Ping 430 Max 10.5 Degree - Tensei 1K Blue Regular 45"

Fairway Woods: Wilson Dynapower (2023) 5 and 7 woods Irons: 6 - PW trade between Titleist T200 Steel Fiber i110s, and Wilson Staffs +1" - Shafts Project X LZ 5.5 Hybrids: Ping G425 26 degree Titleist TSi2 17 and 23 degree…..Shaft Project X 90 Hyb +1" PW: Wilson Staff Custom 52 SW: Cleveland CBX Full Face 56 10 bounce Putter: Jon Rham Limited Naked Rossie  Ball: Wilson Staff, Pro V or Callaway Chrome Soft Bag: Datrek 

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Nice review - I hope I enjoy mine as much as you do yours. Went full 180* from Mizuno MP irons primarily (over the past 10 years) presently gaming the MP 62s - but decided on a whim to hit the Razr X Tours....high straight and long - very easy to hit. Surprisingly the Cally's feel very very nice - at least as "soft" as the MX series of irons but not as solid as the MPs - but excellent feel nonetheless. The Callys sweetspot is bigger and definitely more "middle" of the club face, as opposed to Mizuno MP's which are "slightly inside center towards the hozel". But it seems the RXT's sweetspot is huge.

MrParr1Noid

Happy Hunting...

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Taylormade SIM 2  21 degree w/Ventus Blue

Taylormade Stealth Rescue 22* w/Ventus Blue

Callaway X-Tour raw - 52 w/DG steel

Taylormade MYMG 3 - 56 w/KBS C-Taper Lite 

Dave Whitlam Anser 

oh ya this thing is killing it that's how a golf club should sound

For guys who have previously played the X Tours, how do these clubs compare ? Specifically: club head size, offset, sole grind, forgiveness. Thanks

Driver  : XXIO 10 Woods : COBRA RADSPEED  3W + 5W Hybrids : NONE  Irons : JPX-800-HD Wedges : CLEVELAND CBX2  50-11 + 56-12 + 60-10 Putter : ODYSSEY WHITE HOT  RX  #2

[quote name='zeedub' timestamp='1303698621' post='3182887'] oh ya this thing is killing it that's how a golf club should sound [/quote] this thing's got some go man

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[quote name='minhjn' timestamp='1303717557' post='3183401'] [quote name='zeedub' timestamp='1303698621' post='3182887'] oh ya this thing is killing it that's how a golf club should sound [/quote] this thing's got some go man [/quote] RAZER X IRONS!

Good review, and I think that it was pretty cool of Callaway to supply you with these Razr X Tours, and then to get your shaft fitting / exchange squared away. Super Cool, and a big Thank You to easyyy and GolfWRX for allowing you the opportunity.   Happy Hunting...

Thanks to all that replied. Yes, I was amazed at how Callaway and Golfwrx handled everything so smoothly. :beach:I would have liked to play more with them prior to the review but it has been very windy here and I did the best I could trying to get out to the course at less windy times. That is one reason I went with the TT shafts.

[quote name='minhjn' timestamp='1303717557' post='3183401'] [quote name='zeedub' timestamp='1303698621' post='3182887'] oh ya this thing is killing it that's how a golf club should sound [/quote] this thing's got some go man [/quote] RAZER X IRONS

[quote name='zeedub' timestamp='1303698621' post='3182887'] oh ya this thing is killing it that's how a golf club should sound [/quote] Ya Know

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DBreslin417

[quote name='yedi015' timestamp='1303765202' post='3184933'] [quote name='zeedub' timestamp='1303698621' post='3182887'] oh ya this thing is killing it that's how a golf club should sound [/quote] Ya Know [/quote] Look at this thing go...look at it!

Have you had more time with them....what are your thoughts?

[quote name='puttitin' timestamp='1303716522' post='3183393'] For guys who have previously played the X Tours, how do these clubs compare ? Specifically: club head size, offset, sole grind, forgiveness. Thanks [/quote] Good question that I would love to hear the answer to.

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This week the weather looks very good so I'll post more after another round or two and some additional range time. Couldn't get out today.

[quote name='Chunkylover77' timestamp='1303775412' post='3185402'] [quote name='puttitin' timestamp='1303716522' post='3183393'] For guys who have previously played the X Tours, how do these clubs compare ? Specifically: club head size, offset, sole grind, forgiveness. Thanks [/quote] Good question that I would love to hear the answer to. [/quote] I guess I'm your boy.. I will remain convinced that for me the best set of irons I've played are the x-tours.. I was challenged by a pro to dump my mp-60's and get a set of x-tours which I played with DGsl s300s and then i95 steelfibers in stiff.. I was playing a lot of tournament golf and keeping it south of 75 most days. The tours immediately helped me hit more greens (greens are small around these parts as most of my regular courses are very old... think Pebble remains the course with the smallest greens on tour and my club's green and Del Monte's are smaller than Pebble's). So in one month I dropped both my index and GIR number by 2..and was really pleased to have some nice finishes in some tournaments. Old favorites are hard to criticize... now I am experiencing a very similar experience on the course as I too was "given" a set of these irons to demo.. Have them with vs-proto shafts in stiff (85 gram) and am very pleased with them.. I have started shooting better scores but some of that has been the rediscovery of callaway's greatest driver ever - the FT-3 (I have a Hawk in the shop with a new Motore F1 waiting to be gripped but I have found some yardage with the FT-3 that was long forgotten by this old goat and I'm hitting fairways like never before).. when you are 60 and can consistently drive it 250-60 you are having fun out there.. make no mistake about it.. marked a tee shot the other day and measured off a 273 yard drive.. best in a long, long time. So while the irons are great my general outlook is excellent and it's possible that these razrX tours could establish a benchmark as well.. I would love to hit the forged razr cavs that Roger designed before I settled in for the year but likely will not bother. I believe in forgiveness and have a lot of confidence in these razrX tours.. the x-tours were soft and I loved them.. these are cast of course.. there is no comparison in my opinion... give me a forged perimeter weighted cavity back iron any day of the week but I'll be singing the praises if these babies help me get below a 3 this year.. I have some plans if they do...as to the specifics of the question? they could be the exact same iron with some technical refinements in the sole of the razrs (sole flares as weight is repositioned to the toe).. the topline of the tours was an optical illusion with the "shading" disguising how thick they really were.. as my tour van buddies say.."same thing, but different" [attachment=772690:pebble 18 sunrise-1.jpg] [attachment=772691:bag.jpg]

[attachment=772692:march addidasrife.jpg] [attachment=772693:razr tour.JPG]

I too loved my old Xtours, great sticks. I just traded for a set of Razr Tours to fight it out with my S56s and noticed the similities vs my old Xtours. My question is I was surprized at the dullness of the finish of relatively new irons vs new Razr Tours. I recollect this same thing happening to other Callaway "Tour" versions of the X20,22s,etc. I am not that anal about it and concerned only with performance but just curious as to why the finish goes south so fast?

I got out today for a quick 9 with wind but not too bad. It is due to get windier this weekend. I shot a 40 with the RAZR X Tour irons and they performed perfectly. At this stage of the season I was very happy. My 'misses' were all stupid like mis-aligned, etc. so I was hitting the ball well and putting was good. These iorns give good feedback with a reward on well hit shots. I was driving the ball good so I have plenty of various iron play. I still have no 'cons' for these irons. I would be careful on shaft selection. These irons launch the ball high for me with the TT R300 shafts. [i] [/i]

LongJohn6284

i really want to hit these...they look really nice in the pro shop

[quote name='maverick' timestamp='1304050811' post='3195288'] I got out today for a quick 9 with wind but not too bad. It is due to get windier this weekend. I shot a 40 with the RAZR X Tour irons and they performed perfectly. At this stage of the season I was very happy. My 'misses' were all stupid like mis-aligned, etc. so I was hitting the ball well and putting was good. These iorns give good feedback with a reward on well hit shots. I was driving the ball good so I have plenty of various iron play. I still have no 'cons' for these irons. I would be careful on shaft selection. [b]These irons launch the ball high for me with the TT R300 shafts[/b]. [i] [/i] [/quote] Thanks again for the follow up. I'm within hours of picking up my set - excited. I hit S300 to the same trajectory and distances as my present club mp62 w/NSPro950 REGULAR flex. I couldn't believe that I hit the S300 (heavy war club shaft LOL ) that well and opted for the NSPro990 instead....since I'm getting older, not younger. Hope I love them and that they simply fly higher, without "ballooning" or hurting. But i guess they really do shoot the ball up in the air. Question: how is the chipping with a PW? Does the fat bottom interfere with the turf when chipping?

Just got fitted this week and ended up ordering these with S300 shafts and 2* up. Should have them next week hopefully. Can;t wait. They were going so well at the fitting that I am excited about playing again.

I tested a set of these last week and nearly bought them. I am going to test the new taylormade MB irons first. I have a AP2 6 iron in my bag atm and it will also be being tested against my 09 x forged. So many great club choices out there atm it makes it really hard to pick a set. Being a club ho makes picking a new iron set so hard.

[quote name='ChipDriver' timestamp='1304082908' post='3195722'] [quote name='maverick' timestamp='1304050811' post='3195288'] I got out today for a quick 9 with wind but not too bad. It is due to get windier this weekend. I shot a 40 with the RAZR X Tour irons and they performed perfectly. At this stage of the season I was very happy. My 'misses' were all stupid like mis-aligned, etc. so I was hitting the ball well and putting was good. These iorns give good feedback with a reward on well hit shots. I was driving the ball good so I have plenty of various iron play. I still have no 'cons' for these irons. I would be careful on shaft selection. [b]These irons launch the ball high for me with the TT R300 shafts[/b]. [i] [/i] [/quote] Thanks again for the follow up. I'm within hours of picking up my set - excited. I hit S300 to the same trajectory and distances as my present club mp62 w/NSPro950 REGULAR flex. I couldn't believe that I hit the S300 (heavy war club shaft LOL ) that well and opted for the NSPro990 instead....since I'm getting older, not younger. Hope I love them and that they simply fly higher, without "ballooning" or hurting. But i guess they really do shoot the ball up in the air. Question: how is the chipping with a PW? Does the fat bottom interfere with the turf when chipping? [/quote] That was a concern for me when I originally saw the new RAZR X irons, both regular and Tour. Then I compared them to my 588 TG wedges and to my surprise they were a bit on the flat side too. They leave a nice neat square divot. LOL As far as spin I see no issue there. Maybe others will but they seem to spin the ball just as good as any irons I have used. They haven't ballooned in the wind I have had so I would not worry about that. (gusts up to 38-40mph) With my current SS measuring at about 95mph on most any iron I can used either R or S shafts. The Burner 2.0 KBS shafts in a S shaft launch the ball even higher then these with R300s. They (2.0s) might balloon, I haven't had time to try and am happy with the Tour RAZR Xs. I do most all of my chipping with one wedge, a 588 60*. I have been doing this for over 10+ years and since it works I keep this unorthodox style of play from about 60yds and closer.

I did a search and was not successful, can anyone tell me what the tip size is for the razr x tour irons? Callaway customer service states that it is 355 taper, but I could have sworn when i pulled and measured it was 370 on the dot. please help... thanks

[quote name='mul1gan' timestamp='1304472071' post='3206142'] I did a search and was not successful, can anyone tell me what the tip size is for the razr x tour irons? Callaway customer service states that it is 355 taper, but I could have sworn when i pulled and measured it was 370 on the dot. please help... thanks [/quote] The .370 is for irons and the .335 is for graphite shafts on the driver, fw woods. I think Callaway was the first to use .350s in their drivers/FWs but I could be wrong. That is standard for irons. The driver and fws are also a pain in the butt to re-shaft but it can be done. I played again today with the irons and they performed great. Since I do not change irons often I will expect to keep these in the bag for a while. =)

tigerwoods3423

They look very similar in composition to AP2's. Beautiful.

I have been playing these irons 3-pw, as well as my new octane tour driver. I love these the irons and my driver. Went back and forth between the razr tours and razr forged. Although these irons are forgiving, I can still work the ball with these irons when I want to. Very sexy look too. Great job Callaway

I am looking forward to my new toys arriving. hurry cally and get them shipped.

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Callaway X-Tour Irons: The Company's First Premium, Forged Set

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Callaway Golf did something brand new when it introduced the X-Tour irons: It made a set of forged irons. The Callaway X-Tour irons were the company's very first forged irons when they debuted in 2005. (Related: What is the difference between forged and cast irons? )

That was a departure for a company that made its mark in game-improvement golf clubs , which included all of its earliest iron sets with their focus on extreme perimeter weighting .

Today Callaway makes premium sets, forged sets, players' irons, along with what it continues to be well-known for: golf clubs that help recreational golfers "miss better."

But that original X-Tour iron set is where Callaway's entry into the premium forged irons segment of the market began.

Finding/Buying Callaway X-Tour Irons Today

The X-Tour irons can still be found through resellers and sites/shops that focus on used golf clubs. According to the PGA.com Value Guide, the resale value of X-Tour irons today is around $70, but you might find them for more or less depending on the source and the condition . We've seen them listed on CallawayPreOwned.com, where they tend to be more expensive — but you are getting them semi-direct from the source that way. (Given how old the set is today, the original X-Tours are getting harder to find. But Callaway made multiple follow-on X-Tour sets in later years, too.)

Looking Back at the Callaway X-Tour Irons

How were the Callaway X-Tour irons described at the time of their debut? That debut was in 2005. Here's what we wrote about them in real time:

March 21, 2005 — The new set of irons from Callaway Golf is new not just for consumers, but for the company, as well. The Callaway X-Tour Irons represent the entry of Callaway — a company built on game-improvement — into the forged irons marketplace.

The X-Tour Irons were designed by Roger Cleveland and, while forged, still feature many of the qualities that have made Callaway irons so popular.

"It has been very exciting for me to work on Callaway Golf's first iron offering in a category that appeals to so many passionate and skilled golfers," Cleveland said. "I believe the X-Tour Irons bring a new level of performance in shot-making that can be easily discerned and enjoyed by better golfers."

The Callaway X-Tour Irons begin shipping to pro shops on April 15, 2005. The MSRP for the set (3-PW) is $1,280.

Callaway says the X-Tour set offers the best of both worlds, "... the playability and feel that better golfers demand (along with) proprietary technologies that have established Callaway Golf as the world's leader in golf equipment."

The Callaway X-Tour Irons feature a notch-weighted, cavity-back head to which the face plate is laser-welded. The back cavity is precision-milled to perfectly fit the face. Both pieces of the clubhead are forged from soft, 1020 carbon steel.

The 2-piece forging allows Callaway, the company said, to incorporate the other technologies well-known to Callaway fans: the 360-degree Undercut Channel, Extreme Notch Weighting and a modified bore through hosel .

The 360-degree Undercut Channel and Extreme Notch Weighting are designed to maximize perimeter weighting, moving more weight to the heel and toe. These qualities help stabilize the club through impact, helping improve the ball flight on mis-hits. These features also provide a deeper center of gravity for more ease of use with the long irons and a higher launch angle .

The modified bore through hosel is longer than typically found in Callaway's S2H2 Technology. The location and length of the hosel further influences the center of gravity, moving it more toward the heel. This quality, Callaway says, helps workability.

The Callaway X-Tour Irons have been in use on professional tours for a while already, with Phil Mickelson and Annika Sorenstam among those pros using them.

The standard shaft is True Temper Dynamic Gold steel shafts in flexes of R300 (regular), S300 (stiff), and X100 (extra stiff). A 2-iron can be special-ordered to add to the 3-PW standard set.

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Callaway Tour Authentic X-Prototype

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Many Callaway fans have waited a long time for the brand to produce a set of muscle backs. The heads are seriously intimidating to look down on, but the feel from the centre of the club is incredible. Not for everyone – particularly at this price – but seriously good ball-strikers will not be disappointed.

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These muscle backs made an immediate impact when they arrived out on Tour, appearing in Phil Mickelson ’s and Ernie Els’ bags as soon as they were available. Designed by Roger Cleveland, the forged heads have minimal offset and a thin top line to provide a compact look. The X-Muscle Back is designed to give a consistent trajectory that suits the best players in the world.

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2024 Callaway Chrome Tour & Chrome Soft Golf Ball Review

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50 Words or Less

The 2024 Callaway Chrome Tour has outstanding all-around Tour performance.  The Chrome Tour X raises the spin throughout.  Chrome Soft is the softest Tour ball with lower spin.

Introduction

A few weeks ago, Xander Schauffele won his first major at the PGA Championship.  Among his complete set of Callaway equipment was the Chrome Tour golf ball [full WITB HERE ].  Chrome Tour is a new name in the Callaway golf ball family, so I tested it alongside the new Chrome Tour X and Chrome Soft to see how these balls stack up to other premium offerings.

The Callaway Chrome Soft golf balls lives up to its name, continuing to be one of the softest Tour caliber balls available .   It doesn’t quite get into the uber-low compression, marshmallow feel, but it’s not far off.  This is enhanced by the quiet impact sound.

More prototypical Tour ball feel is found in the 2024 Callaway Chrome Tour and Chrome Tour X.  Callaway describes these two as “Medium” and “Medium Firm” respectively, which I think it fair.  The Chrome Tour is just barely on the soft side of Tour balls.  The Chrome Tour X is very close to the Chrome Tour, being just slightly firmer and louder off the putter.

Moving to the wedges and irons, the Chrome Soft is noticeably softer and quieter than its brothers.  It’s probably the softest Tour caliber ball off a wedge.  The Callaway Chrome Tour and Chrome Tour X are also on the softer side of the spectrum , but closer to other Tour balls.

As you can see above, Callaway makes their Chrome golf ball line up easy to understand.  The Chrome Soft stands apart with its soft feel, Chrome Tour X is the higher spinning Tour ball, and the Chrome Tour sits in the middle.  I did my own launch monitor testing to see how those descriptions held up for me as a mid/high speed, lower spin player.

What immediately jumped out to me was the higher peak wedge spin of the Callaway Chrome Tour X .  It’s on the high end for spin among premium golf balls with a very slight edge over the Chrome Tour.  Where my results differed from Callaway’s is with the Chrome Soft.  I saw a measurable loss in spin – about 7% – compared to the 2024 Callaway Chrome Tour.  As always, your mileage may vary; my results are meant to be a starting point in your search for the best golf ball.

For 2024, the Callaway Chrome Tour X has taken the place of 2022’s Chrome Soft X [review HERE ] as the high spin ball .  This is true in the long game just as in the short game.  With the irons, it’s a few hundred RPM higher than the Chrome Tour and a bit above average overall.  This is why it earns the “High” rating from Callaway for Workability.  If you like shaping your shots or need more spin to hold greens, this is the ball for you.

The 2024 Callaway Chrome Tour golf ball is right down the middle in terms of Tour ball performance.  Callaway rates the long game spin as “Low,” but I would say it’s average.  This is a semantic difference – everyone says they make a “low spin” ball, so whether we call them all low or average, we’re saying the same thing.  I’ll also note that both the Chrome Tour and Chrome Tour X produce outstanding ball speed .

Finally, the 2024 Callaway Chrome Soft was the lowest spinning ball for me.  It’s measurably lower spin with the driver but noticeably lower with the irons.  This could be outstanding for the higher spin players.  Additionally, I found that at their best the Chrome Tour balls were a little faster (about 1 MPH) than Chrome Soft, but the Chrome Soft seemed to retain speed better on mishits.

In addition to covering a range of performance needs, the 2024 Callaway Chrome Tour and Chrome Soft golf balls come with several looks.  Each model is available in white, white with Triple Track, and yellow with Triple Track.  Callaway is also carrying forward their limited edition TruTrack balls with USA flags, major-specific designs, and more.  Whether you prefer something bold or traditional, the performance of the Callaway golf ball line up is worth serious consideration.

Visit Callaway Golf HERE

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13 Comments

How does the Chrome Soft vs 2024 AVX play out?

That’s an interesting and probably fairly close comparison. I don’t have any head to head data, but I can say the Chrome Soft feels definitively softer to me.

Nice review, can you share what your driver club head speed is. I think the softer compression CS fits the lower swing speed player, the tour balls best for those with a higher swing speed.

I can get the driver at or a bit above 110 MPH on a good day.

Hi Matt, thanks for the continued great reviews! Do you have any comparison data/thoughts between the new Chrome Soft and the new Bridgestone Tour B RXS? Thanks, Rus

The Chrome Soft is softer feeling. Beyond that, I don’t have head to head data, but I think they’re going to be pretty similar for a lot of players.

How was durability? I played Chrome soft X and that was pretty easy to nick.

I haven’t had any issues so far. They withstood launch monitor testing well. I’ve only had a couple rounds on the course, so I can’t speak to how they endure sand and cart paths much.

I am a Senior who well into his Senior years. In fact; “The Young Guns” say I’m older than Dirt!! Seems they are saying that more these day’s as they take my $$$. I do not like “Paying Out!!” & prefer “Paid In”. They Whine a lot!!! So what is Old Guy ‘To Do” & “What Ball To Play” who swings now on the Slower Side; under 80mph & sometimes get’s much lower than that. Then I start Swearing at Them & “The Ball!!” Your Help is required!!

In this line up, I’d try the Chrome Soft. You should also check out the Bridgestone Tour B RX balls.

Bill, I’m only high 80s/low 90s swing speed and Ping’s Ballnamic suggested Chrome Soft X (the predecessor to Chrome Tour X). Slower speed guys may need more spin to keep the ball in the air. (It may be worth purchasing a sleeve to try).

Played the Chrome Tour in Ireland, hit some really long drives with that ball and it was great in the wind, very penetrating. I played the Chrome Soft X LS before and I think the Chrome Tour is definitely an upgrade on that ball with the slightly softer feel.

How about the Wilson Triad great ball for slower swing speeds

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all differnt kinds

Well lets just start by saying ive have these irons for about 5 months now and they have been the best iron play months in a long time now onto the review they are nice looking irons and the chrome finish suits my eye well. For a players club they are quite easy to hit and the ball flight is just so pridictable. in my experience i have gained 5-10 yrds on each club but the real factor that makes these irons stand out for me is that they are incredibatley accurate and have a very nice feel to them. id reccomend these to anybody that wants to improve their irons play 15 hc and below.

second to none

x20 tours, x forged, titleist 735 cm, mizuno mp 37, nike cci forged

Anyone who is interested in playing these clubs should know they are designed for lower handicapped players. Please dont put too much stock in people rating these clubs that shoot 97 after 4 days at the range, they may have an opinion but if you score low their opinion does not apply to you. I just hit these clubs at the local shop, albeit into the net; however, with the S300 shafts i was grouping my ball marks inside a quarter on the face tape. This was not just with PW and 9 iron, every club! The feeling was amazing. You could almost begin to tell just from the hit whether you decelerated into the ball or caught it a bit thin. The swing with this set is very balanced and predictable. I also found that the clubs lines of the clubface and thin top offered extra confidence when setting up to work the ball and had a really good feel for those hits as well. I am gonna pick up a set in the next week or two to demo at the range and I will update then.

.... a whole bunch

Was looking to replace my aging Titleist DCI 990 irons, so after reading good reviews, I gave the X-tours a try. I was really not impressed. I can get used to the thick top-line, but the sole width was too much. They are straight, but a club shorter than the DCI 990s. I think most players who like a tour-caliber club may want to skip these. I'm off to try my new TaylorMade R7 TPs.

Titleist 981, Titleist DCI 990, Ping Eye 2

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Callaway Tour Authentic X-Prototype Tour Quality Irons Review

Published: 03 February 2011 Last updated: 26 November 2015

At a glance

• TG Rating Not yet rated
• Owner Rating 5 out of 5
• RRP £849.00

What we say...

Callaway Tour Authentic X-Prototype Irons are forged muscle-back irons by legendary clubmaker Roger Cleveland designed specifically to meet the demands of the best players in the world.

With Tour-inspired styling and soft carbon steel construction, these irons provide precision shot making with incredible feedback and workability. Features Flighted CG and X-Muscle Back design to generate consistent, Tour-level trakectories with unparalleled playability in a blade.

The white chrome finish delivered the preferred aesthetics for Tour players with a very thin topline, narrow sole, minimal offset and shorter bladelength for maximum workability in various turf conditions.

Blade, steel shaft, gents, RH.

Available 2-PW

Product Information

Your reviews, callaway irons user reviews.

5 out of 5 Best Irons I've ever used 20 March 2012

By bandit1728

I bought these irons last year (late 2010) having used X20's for the preceeding year.  Initially intimidating largely due to the small face compared with the X20's, the clubs proved to be far more forgiving than I had expected, the muscleback ensuring distance even on a mis strike.  The workability and truly sweet feel of a good bal strike have taken my game from a 16 down to a 12 and I am expecting further progress.  If you have the spare cash and want to improve - these are the lads for the job!!