If you’re an avid golfer, you probably have already heard about the Ping Eye2 irons. These clubs were introduced in the 1980s, but they are still popular and slightly controversial at the same time because of their unique history. Why are Ping eye 2 irons considered illegal, and what does that mean for professional or amateur competitions?
Ping Eye2 irons are considered illegal for professional USGA competitions because their U-shaped grooves can provide an unfair advantage to the golfer. They make it easier for the golfer to hit the ball accurately compared to other clubs. However, you can use these irons for amateur tournaments.
In the rest of this article, I will explain why particular Ping Eye2 irons were banned from professional competitions and if there are specific models that are still acceptable under the USGA Rules of Golf.
Here’s Why You Can’t Use Ping Eye2 Irons
Back in the 1990s, there was debate and even a lawsuit regarding certain Ping Eye2 irons. The U-grooved Eye2 irons were considered to give an unfair advantage to golfers, providing higher accuracy and making it easier to hit the ball straight. The U-shaped grooves mentioned above were the key.
The USGA decided that the overreliance on grooves provided less of a challenge for professional golfers. So, starting from 2010, new rules were adopted that would ban irons such as the U-grooved Ping Eye2 from professional competitions.
As a result of these findings, U-grooved Ping Eye2 irons that were manufactured before April 1990 were no longer allowed in professional USGA competitions. Nowadays, these rules still stand, meaning that you won’t be able to use these irons if you intend to participate in a professional USGA tour, according to the 2010 Conditions of Competition.
Using Ping Eye2 Irons as an Amateur
It’s important to emphasize that the USGA bans the Ping Eye2 irons from professional competitions. However, according to the USGA, these irons are absolutely fine for amateur tournaments. If you’re not taking part in a professional competition, you can still use U-grooved Ping Eye2 irons.
If you still have these clubs manufactured between 1984 and 1990, you can use them and take advantage of their grooves for more accurate shots. They are acceptable in all non-professional competitions, including the USGA amateur tournaments, at least until 2024. After 2024, the rules may change.
Ping Eye2 Irons That Can Be Used in All Competitions
You may wonder, are there any types of Ping Eye2 irons that can be used in all competitions, professional or not? Most Ping Eye2 models manufactured in the 1980s and 1990s are not allowed in professional competitions.
However, the V-grooved Eye2 irons made in the early 1980s are an exception. According to USGA rules, these irons can be used in all professional and amateur tournaments. If you’re participating in a professional competition, you can use your V-grooved Eye2 iron with no problem.
Conclusion
As you can see, Ping Eye2 irons are not exactly illegal on all accounts; you may use some of them in amateur tournaments. However, the U-grooved Ping Eye2 irons are banned from professional competitions since they provide an advantage to golfers regarding accuracy.
Since the USGA seeks to make competitions more challenging, U-grooved irons are no longer allowed in professional tournaments. However, V-grooved Ping Eye2 irons can still be used in all types of competitions.