In my experience, I have found that hybrids are generally easier to hit than fairway woods. One of the main reasons for this is the shorter shaft length of hybrids compared to fairway woods. The shorter shaft allows for better control and makes it easier to make solid contact with the ball.
When I first started playing golf, I struggled with hitting fairway woods consistently. The longer shafts made it difficult for me to find the sweet spot on a consistent basis. I often found myself topping the ball or hitting it off the heel or toe of the club. This led to inconsistent shots and a lack of confidence when using fairway woods.
However, once I tried using hybrids, I noticed a significant improvement in my ball striking. The shorter shaft length made it easier for me to make a smooth and controlled swing. I was able to consistently find the center of the clubface, resulting in straighter and more accurate shots.
Another advantage of hybrids over fairway woods is their versatility. Hybrids are designed to be more forgiving and have a higher launch angle, which can be beneficial for players with slower swing speeds or those who struggle to get the ball in the air with fairway woods. I found that I was able to hit hybrids from a variety of lies, including the rough and fairway, with relative ease.
Furthermore, the smaller head size of hybrids can also contribute to their ease of use. The compact head design inspires confidence at address and allows for better control and maneuverability through the swing. I found that I was able to shape my shots more effectively with hybrids compared to fairway woods.
That being said, fairway woods do have their advantages. They typically have a larger head size, which can provide more forgiveness on off-center hits. Fairway woods also tend to have a longer distance potential, especially for players with faster swing speeds. However, for the average golfer looking for consistency and ease of use, hybrids are often the better choice.
While fairway woods may offer longer distance potential and forgiveness on off-center hits, hybrids are generally easier to hit due to their shorter shaft length, versatility, and compact head design. From personal experience, I have found that hybrids have given me more confidence and consistency in my long game.