Can Titleist change the perception of hybrid clubs?


By: September 22, 2015


“Golfers have long thought of hybrids as ‘rescue clubs’ and not ‘scoring clubs,’ but we intend to change that perception,” said recently Chris McGinley, Vice President, Titleist Golf Club Marketing.

The new Titleist 816H hybrids (new Titleist 816H1 and 816H2 models) are intended to change our perception of hybrid golf clubs. The new Titleist 816H hybrids are utilizing Active Recoil Channel and Ultra Thin Face technology to generate high speed and low spin for long distance.

They will be available in golf shops worldwide beginning October 23, 2015, with MAP of $249 (MSRP $269).

H1_21_TOE_UP_HERO

The new Titleist 816H hybrids are addressing the phenomenon of more golfers than ever are replacing long irons with hybrids and carrying multiple hybrids in their bags because of their performance benefits. Titleist wants to see  hybrids as a direct extension of the iron set.

The Active Recoil Channel – a long, deep channel, positioned along the sole of the club head that reminds me Adams Blue Hybrid. It serves to provide more distance by actively flexing at impact to launch the ball with lower spin and higher speed. It also allows the entire clubface to deflect at impact for high speed.

The Ultra Thin Face works in combination with the Active Recoil Channel to deliver increased ball speed across the entire face (this solution reminds me Callaway Big Bertha Alpha 815 Hybrids). The high-speed, constant thickness face insert, made of high-strength Carpenter steel. This is Titleist’s  thinnest face insert.

H1’s MOI is 7% higher than  the previous generation 915H model, while H2 has a similar MOI to the 915Hd.

The new Titleist 816H hybrids are coming with 2 loft choices: every 2º and a new 1º SureFit Tour hosel for independent adjustment of loft and lie. This is allowing more fitting flexibility for golfers.

My recommendation:

I would recommend 816H1 for golfers who need enhanced launch and prefer a fairway metal look.  816H2 is for more aggressive golfers.