We tend to get caught up in the low-spin and high-speed chase when it comes to release season, but that often leaves out a large swath of golfers which have totally different needs. For 2022, Cobra Golf is committing to providing an option for everyone, and the key to that is the transition from their previous FMAX offerings to the new AIR-X lineup.
What is AIR-X?
Simply put, the AIR-X line is one aimed at segments which Cobra believes are far too often left unaddressed. From senior golfers who are losing speed as time goes on, to casual golfers entering the game in a price conscious manner, and beginner women who make up the fastest growing demographic in golf.
The goal here is a simple and intelligent one. Lighter weights, more efficient weighting for the needs of the aforementioned golfers, maximum forgiveness, and an aesthetic which is more broadly appealing than what they have produced in the past with FMAX.
This is a complete lineup, from drivers, fairways, and hybrids all the way to irons 4-SW with a 14-club set option to boot.
2022 Cobra AIR-X
Up first in the AIR-X release are drivers, fairways, and hybrids, all with that same focus of maximizing speed through lighter weights. These are the lightest clubs Cobra has ever made, with the driver being 8g lighter than the FMAX was, and a staggering 50g lighter than the LTDx MAX driver. Why the focus on weight? Because lighter means easier speed for those who need it. No, stronger swingers aren’t going to flock to a 285g total weight driver, but those people are not who this is aimed at. However, for the segments we mentioned earlier, it can make this game infinitely more enjoyable.
From top to bottom, the AIR-X have been adjusted, adapted, and shaped to hit their specific goals better than any other club in the segment, according to Cobra. The carbon fiber used is lighter, the shafts are sub 50g, the grips are lighter, and the weight placement in the heads are low and back to maximize both ease of elevation as well as draw forgiveness.
Speaking of draw, though the driver will be offered in a straight neck option, the main course for the AIR-X is the offset options (fairways and hybrids are offset only). With 20% more offset, this is about slice correction (18 yards of draw bias according to Cobra), yes, but that offset also makes it even easier to increase launch for golfers at the sub 85 MPH swing speed realm these clubs are targeted at. Loft options are as follows:
Driver – Straight 9.5°, 10.5, Offset 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°
Fairway – 3 (16°), 5 (20°), 7 (23°)
Hybrid – 3 (19°), 4 (22°), 5 (25°), 6 (28°), 7 (31°)
The looks are much more premium here too, with a carbon fiber crown that with its speed indentations looks clean and quality. Yes, the offset isn’t for everyone, but for those looking into this line it is likely to be a non-issue, remember who the target audience is here. The black and red color combo looks good in the men’s versions, as does the black and elderberry in the women’s. These aren’t overly busy, which was a smart change for Cobra.
As mentioned, there are also irons as part of the AIR-X lineup, with 4-PW, GW, and SW being available. The name of the game here is much the same, lightweight means faster. The AIR-X irons are actually 57g lighter in total weight than the LTDx irons. Naturally, these have wider soles with a deeper and lower CG, as well as variable face thickness for forgiveness on off center strikes. What might surprise some is that the lofts are actually 1° to 4.5° higher lofts, but that makes perfect sense for slower swingers of the club where maximizing launch is critical. The irons follow the same color motif as the woods, and they are surprisingly good looking.
The Details
The Cobra AIR-X clubs will hit retail on 1/28/22 with drivers at $349, fairways $229, hybrids $199, and iron sets (both combo and standard) $799. Additionally, in March of 2022 a complete 12-club set (including a bag and putter) for $1,499. Both men’s and women’s versions will follow the same pricing.
What do you think of Cobra’s commitment to establishing a foothold in this segment? Are the AIR-X the type of club that appeals to you or someone you know? Let us know either below or directly on the THP Community!
