TaylorMade SIM2 Max Irons Review - Plugged In Golf (2024)

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The TaylorMade SIM2 Max irons are long and easy to hit. Strong lofts produce a lot of distance, but these irons retain reasonable stopping power.

Introduction

TaylorMade built tremendous, well-deserved hype around their P-Series irons this fall. But what about the mid to high handicap players? Their time in the sun has come with the release of the SIM2 Max irons. I tested it to see if TaylorMade could deliver as well for the recreational players as they have for the competitive ones.

Check out the latest TaylorMade game improvement iron, the Stealth, HERE

Looks

The TaylorMade SIM2 Max irons are the embodiment of the modern game improvement iron. There’s moderate offset and a thick top line. The sole is wide to lower CG and prevent digging but not so wide that it sticks out behind the top line at address.

In the bag, the SIM2 Max continues the recent trend of downplaying color. The cavity flashes a little carbon fiber, numerous shades of silver, and just a dash of blue. It’s a very busy cavity that both screams “TECHNOLOGY!” but is also understated due to the color scheme.

Comparing the SIM2 Max (left) and the SIM2 Max OS [review HERE], you’ll notice that the top lines are very similar in size. The most obvious difference at address is the additional offset in the OS model. A 360 degree inspection will also reveal a wider sole and deeper cavity on the OS.

Sound & Feel

The changes in iron construction over the last few years has led to a breadth of impact feels that’s exceeded only by drivers. It’s gotten to the point where, with a GI or SGI iron, I no longer have any idea what to expect when I swing it for the first time.

What I found with the TaylorMade SIM2 Max irons is an impact sensation that bridges the gap between traditional and modern. Contact produces a “snap” that’s just a little louder than average. The tone is mid-pitched and solid, free of any rough, jangly edges. Impact feels reasonably solid with a touch of explosive.

For such a large, stable iron, the SIM2 Max does provide solid feedback. Mish*ts produce a slightly uglier tone, and I was able to feel the precise impact location without difficulty.

Performance

I started testing the TaylorMade SIM2 Max irons on one of those beautiful March days that we occasionally steal here in Illinois. My enjoyment of the unseasonably nice weather was enhanced by how effortlessly the SIM2 Max was launching shots downrange. Nearly every shot was hitting the same medium trajectory with what appeared to be mid-low spin and loads of distance. While this iron defaults to straight with easy launch, it didn’t fight me when I wanted to flight the ball down or hit curvy shots.

When I got the SIM2 Max irons to the launch monitor, the numbers lined up with what I saw on the range. The launch angle was a couple degrees lower than my traditionally-lofted gamer irons, and the spin was several hundred RPM lower. The spin in the SIM2 Max irons is not troubling low – I could hold a green with a good shot. That said, it’s still critical to get fit and find a shaft that will compliment the tendencies of this head.

Where the SIM2 Max iron excels is in forgiveness. For an iron that isn’t wildly oversized, it does an impressive job retaining ball speed on mish*ts and producing consistent launch angles and spin. Consistent speed, launch, and spin are the necessary ingredients for more predictable distances and better iron play.

Conclusion

For the mid to high handicap player who doesn’t want an extreme, oversized iron, the TaylorMade SIM2 Max is a very fine choice. These irons produce impressive distance and do so consistently. Pair them with a shaft that fits your swing and you’ll be on your way to hitting more greens in regulation.

Visit TaylorMade Golf HERE

TaylorMade SIM2 Max Irons Price & Specs