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Titleist TSR2 and TSR3 Hybrids
Because we discussed the Titleist TSR2 and TSR3 fairway woods several months ago, you might have assumed that Titleist released TSR2 and TSR3 hybrids concurrently.
If so, I forgive you.
And given the cacophony of equipment releases this month, it would be easy for Titleist’s updated TSR2 and TSR3 hybrid launch to come and go relatively unnoticed.
But I’m working to change all of that. After all, ain’t no party like a hybrid launch party.
Let’s discuss.
Shared Tech
The Titleist TSR2 and TSR3 hybrids continue the industry trend of subtle refinements in pursuit of an objectively improved design. As part of the game plan, Titleist maintains two models with similar DNA but targeting a slightly different consumer demographic.
This time around, Titleist shifted the CG slightly lower to marginally increase launch and decrease spin while improving MOI/forgiveness. The net result, according to Titleist player testing, is a step or two more carry distance. Also, Titleist added sole relief pockets that reduce the amount of the sole that is likely to come into contact with the turf. The aim of the sole modification is to improve performance from the rough and varied lies.
In addition, the stock lie angle is 0.5° flatter than the previous TSi hybrids which was a request from both PGA TOUR staffers and Titleist’s network of fitters. Coupled with the Titleist SureFit adjustable hosel, Titleist asserts that this should allow for a more precise fitting experience for more golfers.
Titleist TSR2 Hybrid
As with the TSR2 driver and fairway wood, the TSR2 hybrid is a classic shape with a slightly higher trajectory than the TSR3. Titleist states that it’s engineered for “speed and performance” and is better suited for golfers with a shallow angle of attack. You may have been told at some point to “hit your hybrid like a 5-iron.” And like plenty of golfers, you still try to sweep it off the turf like a fairway wood.
If so, the extended blade length of the TSR2 hybrid could prove beneficial. By moving the CG further away from the heel, it better aligns CG with typical impact locations and allows the 455 carpenter steel face to flex marginally more. The net result is a 10 percent boost in MOI/forgiveness and a couple more tenths of mph ball speed.
Titleist TSR3 Hybrid
Of the two hybrids, the TSR3 is more “precise and workable,” according to Titleist. That also means it’s better for golfers with a steeper angle of attack or those looking for a more iron-like hybrid. Compared to the TSR2 hybrid, the TSR3 also sounds more like an iron. By that, I’m suggesting the TSR3 feels more dense and heavy at impact. Comparatively, the TSR2 is marginally more metallic, much like you’d expect from a fairway wood.
Relative to the TSi3 hybrid, the TSR3 hybrid has a bit less offset and five percent more MOI/forgiveness. In terms of adjustability, Titleist is giving golfers more options with a five-position SureFit Adjustable CG Track System. This replaces the three-position system on the TSi3.
If you have fond memories of the Titleist 816/818 H2 hybrids, then the TSR3 should look pretty familiar. Before Titleist launched its TS (Titleist Speed) project in 2018, the 816/818 H2 hybrids served as a bright spot in an otherwise mediocre metalwood line.
Final Thoughts
I tested the TSR2 and TSR3 hybrids at the Titleist Performance Institute in Oceanside, Calif. For me, the TSR3 proved to be the better option for three reasons. First, my hybrid struggle is real. I fight a hook and once I see that “left going left-er” ball flight, the bond of trust is irretrievably broken. But with the TSR3, we shifted the sole weight toward the toe and flatted the lie angle by 0.75 degrees. Problem solved.
A hybrid (or higher-loft fairway wood) is like an odd-shaped puzzle piece for many golfers. The chance of finding a perfect fit increases depending on the number of knobs and levers a clubfitter can pull. With that, minor alterations on paper can become the last little twist or shift a golfer needs to find exactly the right fit.
Titleist has had the most-used hybrids on the PGA TOUR over the last nine years. Generally, it’s wise to take Tour counts with a healthy serving of salt. But in this case the stat has merit. Many touring professionals have 11- and 12-club contracts which leaves room for two to three non-contract clubs. Often, it’s a fairway wood, hybrid or the occasional putter that slides into an available slot.
Pricing and Availability
Stock shafts for the Titleist TSR2 and TSR3 hybrids:
HZDRUS Red 60g HY – Mid-high launch/mid spin Tensei AV Blue 65g HY – Mid launch/mid spin HZRDUS Black 4G 80/90g HY – Low-mid launch/low spin Tensei 1K Black 85/95g HY – Low launch/low spinPre-sale for the Titleist TSR2 and TSR3 hybrids begins Feb. 2. Full retail availability starts on Feb. 23.
MAP is $299.
For more information, visit Titleist.com.
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