TaylorMade Sim 2 Max Irons Review 2024
TaylorMade SIM2 Max Irons
Pros
- Easy launch
- High ball speed
- Forgiving across the face
Cons
- Lacks durability
- Strong lofts might not suit all
My First Impressions
The TaylorMade Sim 2 Max Iron’s sharp design and styling made a strong visual statement. When holding them, I was able to feel the solid construction along with a comfortable grip.
My expectations were specific: I was looking for increased distance, forgiveness, and an improved launch—all without sacrificing the professional feel that TaylorMade is renowned for. These irons offered to enhance my game while still providing the satisfaction typically reserved for tour-level clubs.
Who is it for ?
- Ideal for high handicappers.
- Golfers looking for high launch and increased distance.
- Seeking maximum forgiveness to minimize the impact of off-center hits and a larger sweet spot.
My Profile
- Average Score: 82
- Handicap: 9.3
- Hand Orientation: Right-Handed
- Golfing Experience: 7 years
Club I Used:
- Model Name: TaylorMade SIM2 Max
- Club Tested: 7 Iron
- Loft Setting: 28.5°
- Shaft Type: Fujikura Ventus Blue
- Shaft Flex: Regular
Test Conditions and Setup
Courses and Range Facilities:
- Course Characteristics: Coastal links-style course with Poa annua greens, known for its tight fairways and strategic bunkering.
- Range Features: State-of-the-art driving range with distance markers set at 50-yard intervals up to 300 yards, high-end launch monitors, and premium practice balls for consistent performance data.
Weather Conditions:
- Humidity: 59%
- The weather was partly cloudy with temperatures around 65° – 67°F.
- The wind was moderate, averaging 12 mph, which was typical for coastal courses
On Course Performance Review
With the TaylorMade Sim 2 Max Irons, I experienced a range of shot-making from long drives down the fairway to delicate chips around the green.
Their versatility proved effective across all types of shots. Here’s a breakdown of their on-course performance across various shot types:
Performance Off the Tee:
- Distance: The irons enabled the ball to travel a great distance, performing exactly as I expected with their specialized high-launch design.
- Trajectory: The ball flew in a nice, high, and straight line, which it kept even when the weather was bad.
- Accuracy: The clubs hit the ball straighter, and it was easier to avoid mis-hits because of the club’s design that helped with mistakes.
Iron Play from the Fairway:
- Control: They provided good control, making it easier to aim on targets.
- Workability: While these irons prioritized forgiveness, they still allowed for ample workability when shaping approach shots.
Rough and Recovery Shots:
- Challenging Lies: Even from tough lies, the irons cut through the grass effectively, maintaining ball speed and minimizing distance loss.
- Recovery Shots: The irons offered a dependable option for recovery shots, helping to get back into play without excessive effort.
My Test Stats
After taking the SIM 2 Max Irons out to the course, I recorded my performance metrics with Bushnell Launch Pro to truly assess their capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the key data points from my session:
| Parameters | My Stats |
| Ball speed | 130.3 mph |
| Clubhead speed | 89.5 mph |
| Launch angle | 16.7 degrees |
| Spin rate | 4785 rpm |
| Carry distance | 205 yds |
| Total distance | 211 yds |
The first thing I noticed was the ball speed at 130.3 mph, these irons translated my effort efficiently into the distance, indicating the technology packed into them. The 89.5 mph clubhead speed reflected the balance and swing ability of the clubs.
With a 16.7-degree launch angle, I was able to achieve a desirable trajectory, leading to better, more reliable shots. The 4785 rpm spin rate also facilitated control over the ball upon landing which was crucial when trying to navigate trickier greens or approach shots.
Lastly, the 205-yard carry distance allowed me to reach my targets with less effort, contributing positively to my overall game.
What I liked about Sim 2 Max
- Distance: Playing with the TaylorMade SIM2 Max Irons, I really liked how they increased my distance with every shot.
- Spin & launch: The high ball speed paired with a consistent mid-high launch helped me get the ball to stop effectively on the greens. Plus, the spin control was just right for managing my shots.
- Forgiveness: Even on days when my swing wasn’t perfect, the irons were accommodating. Hits that didn’t strike the ball in the middle weren’t that bad due to the solid feel and large sweet spot of these irons. This consistently helped boost my confidence during the game.
- Thru-Slot Speed Pocket: This feature increased the face flexibility, ensuring consistent ball speed, which was particularly noticeable on the occasional low-face mishit.
- Grip: The standard Crossline 360 Black grips ensured a firm, comfortable grip during all my swings, giving an overall good feel of the TaylorMade SIM2 Max Irons.
- Playability: These irons made my shots more predictable, with a reliable ball flight and mid-level spin that allowed me to be creative on the course. Even the turf interaction felt smooth because of the smart sole width design.
- Echo Damping System: The reduction in vibrations gave me a sense of playing with forged irons, adding an extra layer of confidence for those challenging shots.
- Shaft Performance: The regular flex of the Fujikura Ventus Blue was right for my swing speed, promoting good tempo and timing.
What I didn’t like about Sim 2 Max
- Durability of Appearance: As much as I admired their looks, I noticed the irons tend to show wear very early.
- Adjustment Period: It took me a short while to adjust to the wider soles, as they slightly changed the way I manipulated the club head. However, once accustomed, this feature became an asset.
Alternatives
When exploring alternatives to the TaylorMade SIM 2 Max Irons, two compelling options emerge: The Srixon ZX5 Irons and the TaylorMade P7MC Irons.
1. Srixon ZX5 Irons
The Srixon ZX5 Irons are a great alternative to the TaylorMade SIM 2 Max Irons. These irons are especially designed for mid to high handicappers who prioritize a combination of forgiveness and playability.
2. TaylorMade P7MC Irons
Another set I had explored was the TaylorMade P7MC Irons. These are targeted more towards the low handicappers and players with a more consistent swing. The P7MC irons provide great feedback and a sleeker design for precise shot-making.
My Take
The Sim 2 Max offers distance, forgiveness, and a comfortable feel that is hard to find in game-improvement irons. These clubs will suit players looking to enhance their game without moving to a player’s iron just yet. Overall, my rounds were consistent, which shows the reliability of these clubs.
