Callaway Paradym iron £1,199
GM verdict
This compact distance iron impresses visually, combining a short blade length with a generous sole width and topline to inspire confidence over the ball. There is perhaps some crossover with the Apex DCB iron, but the performance package creates a point of difference.
Testing the Paradym iron on the Foresight Sports Gcquad launch monitor indoors, the performance was encouraging. The 7-iron has a loft of 29° and, despite being more streamlined and a touch weaker in loft, the Paradym kept up with last year’s Rogue ST Max OS and often surpassed it in terms of carry distance. It averaged 175 yards but never dipped below 172, testament to its consistency, even when our strike pattern deviated from the sweetspot. With a peak height of 35 yards and a descent angle of 48°, you should have no problem getting the ball to stop on the greens in the summer.
It felt just as explosive and stable as the Rogue ST Max OS off the face but with a far more appealing sound and feel. Where the Rogue has a somewhat clicky sensation, the Paradym iron was noticeably quieter, contributing to what we would interpret as a softer feel.
Despite its relatively short blade length, this iron is extremely forgiving off-centre. The flight remained high and relatively straight, and the drop-off in distance was less than expected. It’s a nice feeling knowing that you can make a bad swing and, chances are, you’ll still find the green or get very close to it.
Paradym slots neatly into the range as a mid-handicap iron for golfers who prioritise distance and accuracy over elements like workability. It will become one of 2023’s best compact distance irons simply because of how lively it feels (without those harsh vibrations you sometimes get from distance irons), while delivering repeatable carries.
Yes, the extra distance you’re likely to achieve compared to what’s currently in your bag could create some gapping issues, but they’re worth striving to overcome to get such a playable, visually striking iron in your bag.
For the price, it does represent a long-term investment for golfers overdue an upgrade. But if you’ve been waiting for the ‘right time’ to do it, that time could well be now with Paradym.