There can be little doubt that hybrids (aka utility clubs) have proven themselves an invaluable asset to golfers at all levels. Just about every other amateur golfer now has at least one and they're even starting to show up on tour. Now HiPPO Golf Company has made their bid into the hybrid game with their new ITX 2 Utility Club. The ITX 2 Utility Club takes the benefits of woods and lower irons and fuses them into one club. What makes the ITX 2 different? A carbon composite crown combined with the highest-grade maraging steel allows additional weight to be centered in the back of the club to provide a deeper and lower center of gravity to create an optimum launch angle for greater accuracy and distance.

Sounds neat, but can it move the ball. Like U-Haul. We tried the 20-degree ITX 2 Utility with a W928 High Modulus firm flex graphite shaft and HiPPO's trademark velvet red cap grip and were stunned. First, the balance on this club is exceptional; it swings easy with minimal power loss. The lower center of gravity does a great job of keeping the swing steady no matter what the hitting surface. The feel at contact is also amazingly solid and tight.

This utility works nicely off the tee and from the bare turf. There is also noticeably less energy transfer into "steering" the club, which means almost all of your power goes into the ball, where it should. If you have trouble hitting woods off the fairway, then this is definitely the utility for you.

The bottom line is that if you want a club that hits like a wood with the forgiveness of an iron and looks great doing it, then HiPPO's ITX 2 Utility Club belongs in your bag. It's a sure bet that once you hit one, you'll want a full set. They come in 17, 20, and 23-degree lofts in right-handed models with firm and regular flex shafts. For about one hundred dollars, you can get one just about anywhere clubs are sold or one of the dealers listed at www.Hippo-Golf.com.