Making a game-improvement iron that looks and feels like a player’s iron has long been golf’s version of wishful alchemy. Many have tried, often repeatedly, yet most manufacturers end up creating an iron that is either super-playable but not great looking, or better-looking but not nearly as forgiving as one would like.
For 2025, though, Ping with its all-new G440 iron have hit on something special – a game-improvement iron that looks and feels nothing like one.
Here are some key things to know about the new irons:
1. Distance and control
When it comes to a game-improvement iron, distance is a given, and most models in this category excel at delivering it. But with the G440, Ping took a new approach, ensuring that, in addition to added distance, these irons also are easier to control.
“In this category, we continue to emphasize the importance of consistency and stopping power when determining the iron that best fits a golfer,” said John K. Solheim, Ping CEO and president. “We know they want distance, but distance without control doesn’t lead to lower scores. Through multiple advancements, the G440 represents the most versatile iron in our line and will fit the games of a lot of golfers.”
Distance and control are achieved via a low-profile head shape for a lowered CG, combined with a thinner clubface for shots that fly higher and generate more spin on the greens. The PurFlex cavity badge also aids in producing more distance by expanding and contracting through impact, while enhancing the overall sound and feel.
2. It’s longer (literally)
In addition to helping golfers hit longer shots, the G440 irons actually are 1/8” longer than the G430s, making it easier to hit the ball higher. According to Ping, longer shafts also makes it easier to manage distance gaps across the set. The set comes with new AWT 3.0 steel shafts, featuring ascending weights that are lighter in the longer irons and heavier in the shorter ones.
3. From 5 wedges to 4
By dropping from five wedge options to four, selecting the right wedge combo is now simpler and less confusing. Notably, the 56° wedge draws inspiration from the iconic Eye2 wedge, mimicking its bounce, sole profile and hosel shape.
4. Fresh new look
The new G440 iron features chrome finishes on the back and inside the PurFlex cavity badge, adding to its shiny appearance. The design makes it look more like a player’s iron and less like a traditional game-improvement model.
“The G440 iron has a player-style look and premium finish but retains all the performance benefits of a cavity back, including the forgiveness my grandfather, Karsten Solheim, pioneered more than 60 years ago,” John K. Solheim said. “It will appeal to golfers who want a blade-like look but rely on the performance of game-improvement technology.” Among the refinements to the overall shape is a lower face height, creating a more compact and clean look.
The G440 irons are also available in Ping’s Power Spec, which strengthens the lofts in the 4-iron through pitching wedge by 1 degree, and a Retro Spec, which weakens the lofts in the 4-iron through 8-iron by 1 degree and the pitching wedge and U wedge by 0.5 degrees.
The Ping G440 iron will be priced at €195 per club with a stock steel shaft, and €205 per club with a stock graphite shaft. It will be available in 10 color codes for custom lie angles, and in Standard, Power Spec, and new Retro Spec loft options. Clubs are available to pre-order now and at retail
Leave a comment