Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 Hybrid Review

Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 Hybrid

Once again, the Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 hybrid family consists of two different models at an extremely accessible price point. The “competitive” spec C524 for the more discerning player is directly inspired by previous generations of Tour Edge’s premium Exotics family. Players seeking more forgiveness in their hybrid should look to the “extreme” spec E524 option. Both hybrids feature extremely impressive technology and performance for only $149.99 per club.

C524 Hybrid 3 - Looks — C524 Hybrid 3 – Looks

The Looks

The “competitive” spec Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 hybrid has a traditional medium hybrid footprint. It’s not super compact like a true “player’s hybrid”, but the C524 certainly doesn’t venture into the “mini fairway wood” category. I’d classify it as a classic hybrid shape that falls more in line with traditional expectations. The crown features a carbon pattern that contrasts against the visible Ridgeback spine which creates more rigidity in the club head. More on that later.

E524 Hybrid 3 - Looks — E524 Hybrid 3 – Looks

The Hot Launch E524 hybrid also features Ridgeback technology and has the same carbon pattern on the crown. Where it truly differentiates itself from the C524 is that it has a larger footprint and more offset. While this may not have the same appeal to a better player, this look is designed to inspire confidence for players seeking more lift and to remove the right miss from their hybrid game. The E524 hybrid also features Tour Edge’s Houdini sole, which is designed to locate the center of gravity (CG) low and deep in the head for more forgiveness, as well as minimize friction with the turf. Again, more on both of those later.

How Does it Feel?

Both Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 hybrids feature Diamond Face VFT technology. These small diamond shapes act as “mini trampolines” creating a spring-like effect off the face. This leads to more ball speed, especially on mishits, which in turn results in more distance. As such, there’s a lot of life in both faces and you can really feel the ball jump.

Likewise, both clubs also have Ridgeback technology, which makes the head more rigid. Being more rigid allows the head to maintain its shape/structure at impact, so more energy is transferred into the ball. This combines with the Diamond Face VFT to provide a more powerful feeling when you strike the ball.

I found the C524 hybrid to have a more traditional feel in terms of turf interaction and face response. Additionally, the stock Aldila Ascent PL shaft feels lightweight and smooth. It’s great for a nice and easy swing that still produces easy lift and plenty of distance.

Houdini Sole plays a huge role in the Hot Launch E524 hybrid’s feel. By placing the CG low and deep in the head, the club has a higher MOI, which essentially means it’s more balanced and wants to stay square through impact. This makes the club feel very controlled throughout the swing. Houdini Sole also creates “less drag” through the turf as there’s less surface making contact with the ground. I felt this made the E524 feel extremely smooth and clean as it clips through most lies. These benefits were especially noticeable in heavier grass.

How Does it Sound?

The rigidity provided by Ridgeback technology is a major contributor to the sound in both Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 hybrids. Ridgeback definitely firms up the clubs’ tone and makes it a lot more direct. Both clubs also have a more metallic tone. That said, there is definitely a difference in sound between the C524 and E524. The C524 hybrid is more muted with more of a “pop” at impact, whereas the E524 has more of a “whap” from the face and a “whoosh” through the turf. While I wouldn’t say the E524 is loud by any means, it does have a little more “presence” than its C524 counterpart. Think again of the “traditional hybrid vs. mini fairway wood” comparison made earlier.

On-Course Performance

It’s important to understand the performance intent of the Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 hybrid family. The Hot Launch C524 is designed to play like a traditional hybrid, but still give you a little forgiveness by way of a low and back CG. That extra sole weight and Ryzersole Rail raise the MOI for more stability, but also make it easier to launch the ball in the air while adding a little extra spin to hold it there, so you get good carry yardage. Those characteristics also lend themselves to softer, steeper landings into greens. Overall, the Hot Launch C524 hybrid was very easy to control and found plenty of distance. Its performance certainly rivals premium competition that can cost hundreds of dollars more.

In my opinion, the Hot Launch E524 is a tremendous option for beginner players and high handicaps alike. Really, for a variety of reasons, but the performance benefits are very real. First, the extreme low and deep CG from Houdini Sole really make the club stable and easy to get airborne. These are generally two significant challenges for higher handicap players. Then there’s the sole weight located toward the heel, which helps square the club face through the hitting zone to avoid the right side of the course. There’s also extra offset in the head to help remove the right miss. It’s important to note that this is a very “draw-friendly” club, so if you’re not struggling with a right miss, I’d recommend the C524 instead.

Final Thoughts – Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 Hybrid

The Tour Edge Hot Launch 524 hybrid family offers exceptional value and performance for golfers of all skill levels. With its two distinct models, the C524 and E524, Tour Edge has catered to both discerning players and those seeking extreme forgiveness. The advanced technology, including Diamond Face VFT, Ridgeback, and Houdini Sole, ensures impressive ball speed, control, and distance. Whether you’re looking for a traditional hybrid experience or a more forgiving option, the Hot Launch 524 hybrids deliver exceptional results at an unbeatable price.