Of all the golf irons in our bag, the trusty 7-iron is one of the most frequently used by amateur players and juniors just starting out, with the club being used in 38% of shots to reach the green, according to data from Today’s Golfer.
But given how much we rely on it, it’s also one of the clubs that can fluctuate in distance from player to player, with some using it exclusively on the tee at Par 3s, while others choose it as their partner of choice on most fairways.
So, what is the average 7-iron distance? And should you be hitting the ball further with your 7-iron in your own game? Or is it dependent on several factors, like skill level or physical fitness? Clarkes Golf is here to offer some insight.
What is the average 7-iron distance for amateur players?
According to data featured by Curated, the average 7-iron distance for the average male golfer falls between 140-150 yards, but you'll find similar stats across most golf club distance charts. This makes it an ideal companion during your second shot on most Par 4s, where the pin is in sight, having hit a decent drive.
As mentioned above, it also makes it a wise choice at the tee of many Par 3s – not only because of the average distance, but also because the loft of the 7-iron makes it far easier to get the ball in the air and sit it down, thanks to the steeper angle, without it rolling off the green.
What is the average 7-iron distance PGA players reach?
PGA professionals tend to hit the 7-iron considerably further than their amateur friends, with the average 7-iron shot in the PGA clocking in at 176 yards, according to data featured by Golf Monthly.
Again, depending on the lie of the initial shot, this would make the 7-iron the perfect pick for a second shot on many Par 4s.
Interestingly, though, this figure only represents the carry distance of 7-iron shots played by PGA Tour pros, not total distance, meaning the actual yardages could be much further depending on the bounce, the terrain, and how far the ball rolls.
What determines your 7-iron distance?
Clubhead speed
If you want to hit the ball further with your 7-iron, the easy solution is to swing the club faster.
An important factor in the distance of all clubs, the faster the clubhead travels during your swing, the more force you’ll be striking the ball with on impact. For instance, driver swing speed is almost always faster than any other average swing speed.
This should equate to greater distances – something that’s backed up by the fact that pro golfers and amateur players don't share the same swing speed. Professionals generally enjoy a swing speed of around 90 mph. Plus, as you improve swing speed, your shaft flex should help add some extra yards to your shot.
So if you've always had a slower swing speed than most, maybe it's time to inject some extra power.
Ground conditions
As with any shot, the ground conditions will play a key part in your overall distance, with drier, firmer conditions offering greater bounce and roll.
Wetter conditions, on the other hand, will slow your golf ball significantly when it lands, with damp grass clawing at your ball until it comes to a firm halt.
So if you’re worried your 7-iron distance isn’t up to scratch, and you usually play on rainy days or when there’s a thick layer of morning dew, maybe let things dry up a bit before trying again.
Club face angle
Catching the ball cleanly with a properly angled face and the correct technique is the best way to ensure you obtain maximum accuracy and more distance from your shot. Scuffing or topping the ball, or even catching it slightly off-centre, will result in less distance.
Unlike the long irons, the lighter weight of the 7-iron combined with the loft of the clubface makes it easier to return to a perfectly square position on the downswing. This is likely why it’s a preferred club by so many juniors – the club doesn’t feel like it’s fighting you and often produces a pleasing feel and landing, even if it lacks the distance of its longer counterparts.
Having said that, it’s important for juniors to explore the long irons early on and not become too reliant on clubs that are “easier to hit”, like the 7-iron. Otherwise, they’ll be limiting their chances for further success down the road. A great way to do this is to spend as much time as possible with them at the driving range.
Explore 7-irons and full iron sets at Clarkes Golf
If you’ve been struggling with your 7-iron distances, none of the above is going to be of any help to your golf game if your current club is on the way out.
Older, damaged irons with chipped club heads will do your game more harm than good. Which is why, if you want to stay on top form, you should be using the right equipment and clubs that’ll positively impact your game on the golf course – and we have everything you need and more at Clarkes Golf.
As a leading UK stockist of some of the biggest brands in the sport today – including Callaway irons, Ping irons, TaylorMade irons, and more – we’ll always have the perfect addition to your golf bag that’ll help you lower your scores in style.
Hit the links above to explore our golf iron collections, or get in touch with Clarkes Golf for more personalised advice.