Cleveland Launcher HB

www.clevelandgolf.com X Lofts: 3-19° / 4-22°/ 5-25° X Shafts: Miyazaki C X Adjustable hosel: No

HEAD SHAPE NARROW-MID-WIDE

TECH: The whole story with Launcher HB is simple distance with excellent forgiveness. A Hibore crown lowers and deepens the centre of gravity, Flexfins in the sole direct more energy back at the ball for excellent distance and speed retention on offcentre hits too.

WE SAY: Cleveland promised simple distance with the Launcher and it certainly delivered. It was our test pro’s longest carrying hybrid (229 yards). It registered among the top three for ball speed and carry distance for our two amateurs, too. All three thought the shaft felt quite long due to the tip section being white. The majority of club golfers who want a forgiving hybrid to launch from the turf probably wouldn’t want the long head to be any narrower either. The clubhead has also stiffened to improve acoustics and energy transfer.

TOP GEAR VERDICT

The Launcher hybrid, like the driver, fairway and irons, is a very decent option for reasonable money. Fitting options are deliberately limited, as Cleveland says it’s optimised each to go from rack to range without the need for fitting. So if they work for you, they’re great.