Fully Equipped mailbag: What are the ideal launch and spin numbers for your irons?

Welcome to another edition of the Fully Equipped mailbag, an interactive GOLF.com series in which our resident dimplehead (a.k.a., GOLF’s managing editor of equipment, Jonathan Wall) fields your hard-hitting gear questions. 

We know the ideal spin and launch numbers for a driver but are there similar ones for irons? — David Rhodes

Before I dive into this question, it’s important to note that “ideal spin and launch numbers” are going to differ from one golfer to the next. That’s why GOLF.com’s sister company, True Spec Golf, estimates a preferred range of launch monitor parameters. And even in some cases, a golfer will find success outside of the “normal” ranges. It happens.

Driving

This is how far PGA and LPGA Tour players hit it with every club

By: Luke Kerr-Dineen

But you’re not here to listen to me drone on about how each golfer is “different and unique.” You want some cold, hard numbers. When it comes to testing, True Spec relies on “Launch Monitor Preferred Parameters” with a 6-iron to establish a baseline. If the numbers fall into the range, fine-tuning dispersion could be the next step. Anything well outside the range would likely require a closer look and maybe an adjustment or two.

If you’re in the market for something new or simply want to know how your 6-iron stacks up to the preferred range, go ahead and take a look at the numbers below. Just remember not to panic if you’re higher or lower than the suggestions.

Always get a certified club-fitter involved before taking action.

“Very Fast” swing speed (more than 92 mph with the 6-iron)

“Fast” swing speed (84-91 mph)

“Average” swing speed (75-83 mph)

“Slow” swing speed (65-75 mph)

“Ladies” (less than 65 mph)