Ping launched its G5 and i5 iron sets in the fall of 2005. The G5 was intended to help higher-handicap players enjoy the game, while the i5 set was built for better player. Both models were taken out of production in 2007 and replaced by the G10 line.
Appearance
The G5 line featured a blue metallic badge behind the face and a G5 logo near the toe of the club. The i5 had the same color scheme, with the logo near the toe the only cosmetic difference.
Size
The G5 had an oversize head, which made for a larger sweet spot to help higher-handicap players hit the ball more consistently. The i5's head was smaller and more suited for lower-handicap players who were more apt to consistently hit the ball in the center of the clubface.
Offset
The G5 line irons were built with offset, a feature in which the leading edge of the club is slightly behind the leading edge of the shaft. Offset makes it easier for players to square the clubface at impact, which is key to solid, straight shots. The i5 irons were built with less offset than the G5, ranging from .22 inches in the 4-iron to .11 inches in the pitching wedge.
Center of Gravity
The G5's back cavity was cut parallel to the ground rather than perpendicular to the face, which helped lower the center of gravity and produce a higher ball flight, another feature that made the G5s easier to hit for higher-handicap players.
Sole Width
The G5 had a wider sole than the i5 line. The wider sole, a feature found in the previous G2HL line, kept the club from digging into the turf as easily. The same principle is what makes a hybrid club, with its wider sole, easier to hit than long irons.
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