Having said that if you are a die-hard tech fan you know that the models change nearly every two years, so what can we expect from the latest creation from the Master Craftsman, Bob Vokey?
The legendary wedge maker always talks about the three keys to great wedge play: shot versatility, distance control, and maximum spin.
In terms of versatility, the SM10 line up offers 25 unique loft bounce and sole grind options. The six grind options allow fitters to dial in your short game based on your swing and the type of conditions you regularly play on. This can get confusing, as even though you can buy a Vokey off the shelf, you can easily get it wrong. This is why Titleist are launching a fitting app to guide you through the process. Though, you would be safer just booking in with a Titleist fitting team member and getting set up correctly, as they will also look at your gapping.
Lofts 46-52° feature a smaller profile and a straighter leading edge, while lofts 56-62° have a larger footprint and a more rounded leading edge for shot versatility.
Distance and trajectory control has been modified by progressive centre of gravity placements through the lofts. This is a great benefit for us playing fast courses in the UAE, where playing those low flighted wedge shots close to the green with more control is sometimes the only way to get it close to the pin as opposed to a long bump and run with an iron where you are in the lap of the gods. Taking most of that distance and uncertainty out through the air is more effective, though it might not be the case if you have the wrong grind and bounce!
The only missing ingredient now is spin and that is where Vokey’s have always delivered. The SM10 wedges are produced using a refined Spin Milled process to produced higher and more consistent spin rates. Each groove is individually cut based on loft and a high frequency heat treatment process is used to maximise durability.
The SM10 will be available in three finishes: Tour chrome, jet black and a new nickel finish. The chrome will always be the best seller but the new nickel finish should be well received in the UAE, with its subtle anti-glare coating and potentially better wearing than the black.
Bob Vokey is never going to reinvent the wheel when it comes to wedges. He just fine-tunes what is close to perfection each time with subtle changes, and that is why the SM line up has dominated the wedge market for two decades.
Keep in mind many of us should change our wedges every year, as performance starts to diminish around 75 rounds or slightly less. Just make sure you factor in how many times you practice with your wedge!
Understanding the various grinds, bounce and loft options is a challenge, and why I can’t emphasise the importance of getting fitted correctly. Being able to know how your wedge will behave is a huge advantage for everyone, not just tour level players. We all might not be able to hit 300+ bombs like Wyndham Clark but there is no reason why we can’t master the ability to skip and grip like a pro close to the green.
