About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the golf club, which I tested for one day in November of 2022.

My take

The Tour Edge Hot Launch E522 club is great for attacking pins on long par 3s and approach shots on par 5s. This club is geared for mid to high handicappers who need a club to help them with distance.

About the club I tested

• Model: 2021 Tour Edge Hot Launch E522 Fairway Wood
• Loft setting: 16 degrees
• Shaft type: UST Mamiya Tour Edge
• Shaft flex: Regular

About me

• Average score: 79
• Handicap: 7
• Experience: 22 years of playing golf
• Right/Left-Handed: Left-handed
• Typical ball flight: Left to right
• Golf ball used: Titleist Tour Soft
• Club swing speed: 97mph

Test conditions

• When I tested the club: November 2022
• Days tested: 1
• Where I’ve used it: Simulator
• Weather and wind conditions: Inside

How it performs

What I was looking for

I was looking for a new wood that offered distance and forgiveness as my current Callaway XR16s are becoming more and more outdated, and I don’t love their feel.

Why I chose to test this club

I tested this club because it was visually appealing with its glossy black head and the all-white shaft. I wanted to see how it performed because it was on the cheaper side of fairway woods, and I didn't want to break the bank buying a new wood. I didn’t end up buying the Hot Launch E522 as it didn’t perform best for my playing abilities. I was looking for something with a little more feel and forgiveness on shots on and off the tee.

What I love about it

• Distance: The distance was spot on with where my current woods are, which is something I like when it comes to knowing my distances.
• Workability: I could move the ball from left to right with a high draw pretty consistently, so I was pleased with the workability it offered.
• Adjustability: Straightforward. I don’t need anything fancy. I prefer standard stock items, so I was happy with how the Hot Launch E522 performed.
• Shaft Feel: Lightweight and easy to swing.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek, simple design looked cool from behind when addressing the ball.

Issues I’ve encountered

• Forgiveness: The Hot Launch E522 wasn’t consistent on shots that were hit on center and off the heel or toe, which affected the ball's flight and overall control.
• Feel: The feel wasn’t great. I could feel every ping in my hands on every shot, which didn’t give me assurance on purely struck shots.
• Sound: Average sound. Nothing crazy about them but nothing to truly get excited about.
• Shaft Performance: Irons felt great. The hybrid shaft was set at regular flex. However, if someone is considering the hybrids, they should ensure that they are properly fitted for the correct shaft that matches their swing speed.
• Grip Feel: Standard. I like custom grips on my irons, so I would replace them with new grips if purchased.
• Launch Angle: A little high. I also hit a fade, which launched higher than I would like.
• Spin: The spin rate was a little higher than I would have liked at 4,500rpms versus being closer to the 4,000rpm mark.

Best shot with this club

The one shot I can remember hitting was when I set up to hit a big cut and was able to move the ball right to left 20-plus yards on the first try. I was surprised that moving the ball with this club was as easy as it was.

Value for the money vs. other options

I think the Hot Launch E522 is a quality wood for the price. However, I wouldn’t recommend this club for the low handicap golfer as I believe the TaylorMade Stealth or the Callaway Epic fairway woods are a better, higher-performing option.

Final verdict

The Tour Edge Hot Launch E522 is a decent option for the average weekend golfer looking to help improve those longer-range approach shots on par 3s or into longer par 5s.