TaylorMade's new SpeedBlade irons with speed pocket design
Compared to the RocketBladez, the speed pocket has been widened and lengthened to provide a more effective area near the heel and toe areas. The topline is also a bit thicker in the longer irons. While the TaylorMade SpeedBlade's thicker toplines and wider soles should instill confidence for mid- and high-handicap golfers, accomplished players will most notably benefit from the technologies designed into the SpeedBlades. The position of the slot low on the clubhead is an important factor, says Brian Bazzel, TaylorMade's director of iron, wedge and putter development, who noted company research that showed 72 percent of iron shots hit by five- to 25-handicappers are struck below the center of the clubface, resulting in a low launch and loss of ball speed.