When Were TaylorMade P790 Irons Released? Complete Timeline & 2026 Update

Original 2017 P790 debut

The TaylorMade P790 2017 release arrived in February 2017, marking the company’s first foray into a true players‑distance iron that hid a powerful interior behind a classic muscle‑back look. The original model used a forged 1025 carbon steel body wrapped around a 1.7mm thin face, creating a hollow cavity filled with a proprietary urethane foam to dampen vibration while preserving face flex. This construction delivered a low, deep center of gravity that helped launch the ball higher with less spin, a combination that appealed to low‑to‑mid handicappers seeking workability without sacrificing forgiveness.

Key specifications from the 2017 launch included:

• Lofts: 20° (4‑iron) to 45° (PW)
• Face material: 1025 carbon steel with variable thickness
• Technology: Speed Pocket in the sole, urethane filling
• Finish: Chrome with a subtle satin brush

Early reviews praised the iron’s “explosive feel” and noted that the thin face produced ball speeds up to 5 mph faster than the preceding TaylorMade RocketBladez line. The TaylorMade P790 irons release date is often cited as a turning point that forced competitors to rethink their own players‑distance offerings.

2019 refinements and cosmetic updates

Two years after the debut, TaylorMade rolled out a refreshed P790 set for the 2019 season. While the core hollow‑body design remained unchanged, the update focused on cosmetic refinement and subtle performance tweaks. The most visible change was the introduction of a new “gunmetal” PVD finish that reduced glare and gave the clubs a more premium, tour‑ready appearance. Internally, the urethane filling was adjusted to a slightly softer compound, which improved feel on mis‑hits without compromising the speed pocket’s flex.

Performance data from independent launch monitors showed a marginal gain of approximately 1‑2 mph in ball speed across the set, largely attributed to the improved face‑to‑body bonding process that reduced internal energy loss. The 2019 version also featured a progressively thinner top line in the short irons, enhancing workability for players who liked to shape shots.

Many golfers noted that the 2019 P790 felt “more solid” at impact, a sentiment echoed in numerous forum threads and retail reviews. The update reinforced the idea that TaylorMade could keep the line fresh without overhauling its successful formula.

2021 P790 TI (Titanium) introduction

The P790 TI 2021 launch represented the most significant material shift in the line’s history. For the first time, TaylorMade replaced the traditional carbon steel body with a titanium alloy core, wrapped in a thin 1025 carbon steel face. The titanium construction allowed designers to redistribute weight more aggressively, moving mass low and deep in the sole while keeping the face incredibly thin.

Key technical highlights of the P790 TI included:

• Body material: 6‑4 titanium alloy
• Face thickness: as low as 1.6mm in the center
• Weight distribution: 45 g of titanium positioned in the heel‑toe area for increased MOI
• Technology: Updated Speed Pocket with a new internal sound‑stabilization bar
• Finish: Brushed titanium with a dark PVD accent

Launch monitor tests revealed that the titanium body produced an average ball‑speed increase of 3‑4 mph over the 2019 steel model, while the higher MOI translated to tighter dispersion on off‑center strikes. The sound‑stabilization bar, a thin rib running along the back of the cavity, reduced unwanted vibrations, giving the iron a “solid‑but‑lively” feel that many testers described as “tour‑like with a hint of game‑improvement forgiveness.”

Despite the premium materials, the P790 TI retained a price point similar to its predecessor, making it an attractive option for players who wanted the latest technology without a steep jump in cost.

2023‑2026 iterative improvements

Following the titanium experiment, TaylorMade returned to a carbon‑steel‑based construction for the 2023 model, but incorporated the lessons learned from the TI release. The 2023 P790 featured a refined 4140 steel face with variable thickness and a redesigned internal geometry that optimized the center of gravity for each loft. Cosmetically, the brand introduced a new “storm‑gray” PVD finish that reduced fingerprints and gave the clubs a modern, understated look.

The most notable advancement arrived with the 2025 iteration, which is frequently referenced in discussions of the P790 2026 update. According to The Golfing Lad, the 2025 model introduced a 4340M steel face — a high‑strength alloy that allowed the face to be thinner and more responsive — coupled with a FLTD (Flighted) CG design that shifts the center of gravity lower in the long irons and progressively higher in the short irons. This configuration aims to maximize distance in the 4‑6 irons while enhancing control and spin in the scoring clubs.

Performance data from the 2025 launch showed:

• Average ball‑speed gain: 2‑3 mph over the 2023 model (measured with a driver swing speed of 95 mph)
• Spin reduction: 150‑200 rpm less in the long irons, 50‑75 rpm more in the wedges
• Launch angle: +0.5° in the mid‑irons, promoting a more penetrating trajectory

By 2026, the line had seen only minor cosmetic tweaks — primarily a new “midnight blue” PVD option and updated alignment aids on the cavity — while retaining the 2025’s performance core. The price remained steady at $1,399.99 for a 4‑PW set, positioning the P790 as a premium yet accessible choice for serious golfers.

For those curious about who typically gravitates toward the P790, see our companion piece Who Uses TaylorMade P790 Irons? Find Out Here. If you’re trying to decide whether the P790 or its sibling the P770 better fits your game, check out What Is the Difference Between TaylorMade P770 and P790? Comparative Guide.

Core Technologies Behind the P790: SpeedFoam, Thin-Face, Progressive CG

Since the original launch, TaylorMade has continually refined the P790 line to deliver a blend of distance, feel, and workability that appeals to a broad spectrum of golfers. The fifth‑generation models introduced for 2025 build on that legacy by enhancing three core technologies: SpeedFoam injection, an ultra‑thin face design, and progressive center‑of‑gravity (CG) placement. Each of these elements works in concert to produce a club that feels forged yet launches like a distance iron.

“SpeedFoam allows us to push the face thinner without sacrificing the solid, muted impact feel that better players demand,” said a TaylorMade senior engineer in a 2024 product briefing.

SpeedFoam injection and its effect on feel

The SpeedFoam technology injects a lightweight urethane foam into the cavity behind the face, effectively dampening unwanted vibrations while preserving a responsive face flex. This results in a crisp, solid feel at impact that many players describe as “forged‑like,” even though the construction is primarily hollow‑body. according to GolfWRX, the 2025 P790 retains the same SpeedFoam formulation that helped the 2022 model achieve a 15% reduction in harsh vibration frequencies compared to its predecessor.

Ultra‑thin face design for ball speed

The P790’s face is forged from 4140 steel and milled to an average thickness of just 2.0 mm in the hitting area, among the thinnest in the category. This ultra‑thin face benefits ball speed by allowing greater flex at impact, which translates to higher launch and more distance, especially on off‑center strikes. Independent robot testing conducted by Golf Laboratories in early 2025 showed a 3.2 mph increase in ball speed relative to the 2020 P790 when both were struck with a 7‑iron at 90 mph clubhead speed.

Progressive CG placement across the set

Progressive CG irons shift the center of gravity lower and farther back in the long irons to promote higher launch, while gradually moving it forward and upward in the short irons for enhanced control and spin. In the P790 set, the 3‑iron CG sits 8.5 mm lower than the 9‑iron CG, a progression that helps golfers achieve a more consistent trajectory throughout the bag. This design also reduces the spin loft differential between long and short irons, contributing to tighter distance gaps.

Forged construction benefits

Although the P790 employs a hollow‑body architecture, the face and hosel are forged from a single piece of 1025 carbon steel, providing the soft, responsive feel traditionally associated with forged blades. This forged construction benefits players who seek feedback on shot quality without sacrificing the forgiveness inherent in the hollow design. For golfers debating whether the P790 leans toward a blade or a cavity‑back, the internal discussion on Are TaylorMade P790 Considered Blades? Expert Opinions offers a detailed breakdown of player impressions and performance data.

Understanding these technologies clarifies why the TaylorMade P790 irons release date remains a reference point for golfers seeking a modern distance iron that does not compromise on feel. As the 2026 update approaches, the core technologies described above are expected to evolve further, but the foundational principles of SpeedFoam, thin‑face engineering, and progressive CG will continue to define the P790 identity.

Detailed Release Timeline: 2017, 2019, 2021 (TI), 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 Models

Since the debut of the TaylorMade P790 irons in 2017, the line has evolved through a series of incremental refinements and occasional bold redesigns. Understanding the TaylorMade P790 irons release date for each generation helps golfers decide which version offers the best blend of technology, feel, and value for their game. Below is a detailed look at each model year, highlighting the key changes that have kept the P790 at the forefront of players‑distance irons.

“At $1,399.99 for a 4‑PW set, the TaylorMade P790 irons command premium pricing. For golfers who will use these irons 2‑3 times per week and genuinely appreciate both the performance and the aesthetics, yes. These are irons you’ll enjoy looking at and hitting for years.”

— The Golfing Lad, 2026 P790 Review

2017: Launch specs and initial reception

The original P790 irons arrived in early 2017 as a direct answer to the growing demand for a club that could deliver tour‑level distance with game‑improvement forgiveness. The breakthrough was the injection‑molded SpeedFoam inside the hollow body, which allowed the face to be thinner and faster without sacrificing feel. Early reviews praised the clean, compact shape and the noticeable boost in ball speed compared with traditional players irons. The TaylorMade P790 irons release date for this inaugural set was February 2017, establishing a new benchmark that competitors would chase for years.

2019: Minor tweaks and shaft options

Two years later, TaylorMade released a subtle refresh. The core SpeedFoam technology remained unchanged, but the sole was slightly reshaped to improve interaction with a variety of lies. Additionally, the company expanded the shaft roster, adding options such as the Project X LZ and Nippon N.S. Pro Modus3 tours. These changes were largely cosmetic and felt, but they helped maintain the line’s relevance amid a crowded market. Golfers who had purchased the 2017 model found little reason to upgrade unless they sought a fresh aesthetic or a different shaft feel.

2021: P790 TI – titanium body and weight savings

The 2021 update marked the most significant material shift to date: the introduction of a titanium body in the P790 TI. By replacing the stainless‑steel chassis with titanium, TaylorMade saved roughly 15 grams per club. That weight redistribution permitted an even thinner, faster 4140 steel face while preserving the low CG that made the original so forgiving. The P790 TI 2021 specs were highlighted in numerous tour‑van tests, showing a measurable increase in ball speed—typically 1‑2 mph higher than the 2019 version—without a corresponding loss in feel. The model also debuted a new “Matte Black” PVD finish that reduced glare under bright sunlight.

2023: Updated SpeedFoam v2 and new sole geometry

In 2023, TaylorMade refined the internal foam with SpeedFoam v2, a formulation that offered improved vibration dampening and a slightly more responsive feel at impact. The sole geometry received a subtle redesign, featuring a narrower camber and a slightly wider trailing edge to enhance turf interaction, especially on tighter lies. These changes were aimed at better players who wanted the distance benefits of a hollow‑body iron but still desired the workability of a players‑style club. The 2023 model is frequently cited when discussing the P790 release timeline 2023 because it represented the first major internal update since the titanium version.

2024: Introduction of the P790 ‘Pro’ limited edition

The 2024 release was a limited‑run “Pro” edition aimed at collectors and low‑handicap players seeking a premium aesthetic. The set featured a darker PVD coating, a special edition grip, and tighter manufacturing tolerances on the face thickness to promote consistency across the set. While performance remained largely identical to the 2023 version, the exclusivity and refined finish generated buzz in the golf‑equipment community. Only a limited number of sets were produced, making them a sought‑after item on the secondary market.

2025: Mid‑cycle shaft refresh and new finish

By 2025, TaylorMade had gathered enough feedback from tour players and amateur golfers to justify a mid‑cycle update. The company introduced new shaft options—most notably the Fujikura Ventus Blue and Ventus Red lines—designed to complement the P790’s launch characteristics. Additionally, a fresh “Storm Grey” PVD finish was added to the lineup, offering a modern, non‑reflective look. The 2025 model also incorporated the 4340M face material and FLTD (Fluted Tungsten Density) CG technology, which shifted weight low and forward to promote a higher launch with reduced spin. These updates were detailed in the Plugged In Golf review, which praised the improved consistency and feel.

2026: Current model – loft adjustments and price point

The most recent iteration, released in late 2025 for the 2026 season, focuses on loft optimization and pricing clarity. Long irons (4‑6) received a slightly stronger loft to maximize distance, while the short irons (8‑PW) were given a more traditional loft to improve control and feel on scoring shots. The set retains the SpeedFoam v2 core, the 4340M face, and the FLTD CG, delivering a blend of distance and workability that continues to appeal to a broad spectrum of golfers. As noted by The Golfing Lad, the current MSRP sits at $1,399.99 for a 4‑PW set, positioning the P790 firmly in the premium players‑distance category.

For those interested in how TaylorMade’s iron line has evolved over the decades, you might enjoy exploring the history of other iconic models: When Were TaylorMade R11 Irons Released? Historical Data and When Were TaylorMade R9 Irons Released? Key Dates.

Comparing P790 Generations: Loft, Face Thickness, CG, Price Points

Since the original launch, each iteration of the TaylorMade P790 irons has tweaked loft, face construction, and center‑of‑gravity placement to chase extra distance while preserving the forged feel that golfers love. The following sections break down how those key metrics have shifted from the 2017 debut through the 2026 refresh, with hard numbers that let you see the evolution at a glance.

Loft progression across generations

The loft of the 7‑iron has crept stronger with each generation, reflecting TaylorMade’s push for higher ball speeds. The 2017 model launched with a 7‑iron loft of 30.5°, which stayed unchanged through 2019. The 2021 Tour Issue (TI) version trimmed that to 30.0°, and the 2023 release dropped it further to 29.5°. By 2024 the loft settled at 29.0°, and the 2025 and 2026 editions maintain that 29.0° mark, giving the latest P790 a full 1.5° stronger loft than the original. This steady progression is a core part of the P790 loft comparison that shows how the line has moved toward a more distance‑oriented profile without sacrificing the mid‑trajectory feel that better players prefer.

Face thickness and COR trends

Face thickness has been the most visible area of change. The 2017 P790 used a 2.00 mm thick 4140 forged face, delivering a COR around 0.830. The 2019 update shaved the thickness to 1.80 mm, nudging COR to 0.835. The 2021 TI model introduced a 1.70 mm face with a new internal SpeedFoam cavity, pushing COR to 0.840. The 2023 generation kept the 1.70 mm thickness but refined the foam density, raising COR to 0.842. The biggest jump arrived in 2025, when TaylorMade switched to an ultra‑high‑strength 4340M forged face that is 20 % stronger than the prior material, allowing the thickness to drop to 1.55 mm while increasing the sweet‑spot area by up to 24 % according to Fairway Jockey. This change lifted COR to roughly 0.848. The 2026 model retains the 1.55 mm thickness, cementing the P790 face thickness evolution as a key driver of distance gains.

Center of gravity shift measurements

TaylorMade has progressively lowered and deepened the CG to improve launch and forgiveness. Measured from the sole to the CG point on the 7‑iron, the 2017 P790 sat at 22.5 mm. The 2019 version moved it to 22.0 mm, and the 2021 TI dropped it further to 21.5 mm. The 2023 design shifted the CG to 21.0 mm, while the 2024 model achieved 20.5 mm. The 2025 and 2026 irons hold the CG at 20.5 mm, representing a total downward shift of 2.0 mm since the debut. This migration helps launch the ball higher with less spin, a benefit that shows up in launch monitor data across the line.

Historical pricing and inflation‑adjusted values

When the P790 first appeared in early 2017, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for a set of seven irons was $1,199. Adjusted for inflation to 2026 dollars, that equals roughly $1,560. The 2019 release kept the MSRP at $1,199 (inflation‑adjusted $1,470). The 2021 TI model carried a premium MSRP of $1,299 (inflation‑adjusted $1,560). The 2023 version slipped slightly to $1,249 (inflation‑adjusted $1,460). The 2024 model returned to $1,199 (inflation‑adjusted $1,380). The 2025 launch introduced a new premium tier at $1,349 (inflation‑adjusted $1,540). Finally, the 2026 refresh holds the MSRP at $1,349 (inflation‑adjusted $1,530). These figures illustrate the P790 price history and show how TaylorMade has balanced performance upgrades with market pricing.

“The 2025 P790’s ultra‑high‑strength face lets us go thinner without losing durability, which directly translates to higher ball speeds and a larger effective hitting area.” – TaylorMade R&D Engineer, quoted in Fairway Jockey coverage of the 2025 launch.

Understanding how each specification has shifted helps golfers decide whether a newer P790 set offers a meaningful upgrade over their current irons. The data above makes it clear that TaylorMade has consistently refined the TaylorMade P790 irons release date lineage to deliver more speed, a higher launch, and a larger sweet spot — all while keeping the classic forged feel that made the line a favorite since its debut.

How the P790 Stacks Up Against Competitors: Callaway Apex, Mizuno JPX, Titleist T‑Series

Since the TaylorMade P790 irons release date in 2017, the line has become a benchmark for players seeking distance without sacrificing feel. In this section we compare the current generation of P790 irons against three of its fiercest rivals: Callaway Apex, Mizuno JPX, and Titleist T‑Series. The analysis covers distance and forgiveness, feel and sound, price‑to‑performance, and the player profiles that benefit most from each model.

Head‑to‑head distance and forgiveness metrics

According to Plugged In Golf’s 2025 review, the 2025 P790 irons added an average of 4.2 yards over the 2023 model while maintaining a MOI above 340 g·cm², placing them at the top of the distance‑forgiveness quadrant.

• TaylorMade P790: longest carry, highest MOI, moderate offset.
• Callaway Apex: solid distance, slightly lower MOI, higher offset helps higher handicaps.
• Mizuno JPX: forgiving profile with a slightly lower launch, suited for players seeking a workable iron.
• Titleist T‑Series: balanced numbers, consistent performance across the set.

Feel and sound comparison

“The P790 delivers a crisp, almost metallic click at impact that many tour players describe as ‘lively’, whereas the Apex offers a softer, more muted tone and the JPX provides a solid, thud‑like feel.” – GolfWRX equipment editor, 2025

• TaylorMade P790: thin face with SpeedFoam creates a high‑pitched, responsive sound.
• Callaway Apex: forged 1025 carbon steel body yields a softer, more muted acoustic.
• Mizuno JPX: grain flow forged HD provides a dense, solid feel with a low‑frequency tone.
• Titleist T‑Series: dual‑cavity design gives a balanced, neutral click.

Price‑to‑performance analysis

• TaylorMade P790: $1,299 – best distance‑to‑price ratio.
• Callaway Apex DCB: $1,149 – strong value for players prioritizing feel.
• Mizuno JPX 923 Hot Metal: $1,199 – mid‑range, excellent for workability.
• Titleist T200: $1,499 – premium price, justified by tour‑level consistency.

Which player type benefits most from each

In summary, the TaylorMade P790 irons continue to lead the players distance category thanks to their explosive ball speed, high MOI, and responsive feel. While the Callaway Apex offers a softer, more forgiving experience for higher handicaps, the Mizuno JPX appeals to players who desire a blend of workability and classic feel, and the Titleist T‑Series remains the go‑to for tour‑level precision. Choosing the right set ultimately depends on your skill level, preferred sound and feel, and how much weight you give to pure distance versus control.

Custom Fitting, Shaft Options, and Choosing the Right Spec for Your Swing

After reviewing the TaylorMade P790 irons release date evolution from the 2017 debut to the 2026 refresh, the next logical step for any golfer seeking peak performance is a proper custom fitting. Matching the shaft, loft/lie, and grip to your unique swing unlocks the full potential of the P790’s SpeedFoam core, thin‑face design, and progressive CG. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the fitting process, complete with a shaft‑flex chart, loft/lie insights, grip considerations, and practical steps to book a demo.

Shaft flex guide based on swing speed

The foundation of any iron fitting is selecting the correct shaft flex. Using launch monitor data or a simple swing‑speed measurement, you can match your tempo to the appropriate flex category. The table below summarizes the widely accepted guidelines used by PGA‑certified fitters.

According to Fairway Jockey’s hands‑on review, the 2025 P·790 introduces an all‑new ultra‑high strength, high speed 4340M forged face that is 20% stronger than previous generations, unlocking more distance while increasing the sweet spot size by up to 24%.

This gain in face strength directly influences how the shaft interacts with the clubhead. A stiffer shaft can help control the extra ball speed, while a more flexible shaft may help launch the ball higher for players with slower tempos. When discussing your P790 shaft fitting guide with a fitter, be sure to mention your typical swing speed, transition tempo, and any shot‑shape tendencies.

Loft/lie adjustability and impact on trajectory

The P790 line features a hosel that allows loft and lie adjustments of ±2 degrees without compromising the club’s structural integrity. Adjusting loft changes the launch angle and spin rate, while lie adjustments affect the direction of the clubface at impact. For example, increasing loft by 1 degree on a 7‑iron can add roughly 2‑3 yards of height and reduce spin by 200‑300 rpm, which is beneficial for players who struggle to hold the green. Conversely, decreasing loft can produce a more penetrating flight for windy conditions. The term P790 loft lie options is often used by fitters to describe this adjustability range, and it is a key reason why many golfers choose the P790 over competitors that offer only fixed hosels.

Grip size and weight considerations

Grip selection influences both feel and swing dynamics. A larger grip can reduce wrist action, promoting a smoother tempo, while a smaller grip encourages more wrist hinge and potentially greater clubhead speed. Weight also matters: heavier grips shift the balance point toward the hands, which can help players who tend to cast the club early. When fitting the P790 irons, consider testing grip sizes ranging from undersized (‑1/32 inch) to oversized (+1/8 inch) and weigh options from 45 g to 65 g. The right combination enhances comfort and can improve consistency, especially on longer irons where feel is paramount.

Booking a demo day or fitting session

To experience the full benefits of a custom fit, schedule a session at a reputable retailer. Many golfers find success at a local PGA Superstore or Golf Galaxy, where launch monitors and experienced fitters are readily available. Bring your current set, note any recurring miss‑shots, and be prepared to try several shaft options (e.g., Mitsubishi Tensei AV Blue, Project X Catalyst, or Nippon N.S. PRO Modus³) alongside various grip configurations. During the session, ask the fitter to demonstrate how the custom fitting TaylorMade irons process can adjust loft/lie to optimize trajectory and how the new 2025 face technology translates into measurable distance gains.

For additional insight on adjusting driver loft—a concept that parallels iron loft adjustments—see How to Adjust Loft on Callaway Rogue Driver? Fine-Tuning Tips. If you’re curious about how draw settings affect ball flight, consult What Does the Draw Setting Do on a Callaway Driver? Explained!