The Approach: Improved versatility, distance and trajectory control, as well as more options—that’s the key to Titleist’s new Vokey SM7 wedges. With six grinds, master wedge builder Bob Vokey says he takes what is learned from the brand’s tour players—Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Adam Scott and a host of others—and applies them to the design of these scoring clubs.
“I call it my R&D department and I have a good one in Carlsbad, but I have the PGA Tour worldwide,” he says. “They give me all the input I need and it is all those little things together that give us what we have.”
Product Keys
- Progressive center of gravity for better trajectory: The goal is to connect the centre of gravity with the position of impact. The result is improved trajectory control—essentially your ability to flight your wedges—as well as managing distance effectively. The goal with SM7 was to enhance the CG on the wedges to produce more consistent shot control.
- Spin Milled grooves: Tighter manufacturing tolerances mean 100 rpm more spin on average, allowing shots to hit the green and stop faster. As well, a heat treatment applied to the wedges means they should last longer.
Know Your Letter
The SM7 line features six different grinds to fit a variety of players, conditions and swing types.
Here is the breakdown:
F Grind
Aimed at players hitting full shots with a square clubface, the F Grind is available from pitching wedge through to sand wedge (46 degrees to 56 degrees). The F Grind is the most popular wedge on the PGA Tour.
M Grind
Aimed at players that like to rotate the club face open and shut on shots around the green.
S Grind
Known as the Steve Stricker model, the S grind is still aimed at shots struck with a square clubface, but offers more versatility than the F Grind. Simple mechanics are best with this wedge.
D Grind
New to the lineup, this high bounce wedge has the crescent shape of the M Grind for shot making versatility.
K Grind
The highest bounce wedge in the lineup, the K Grind is the most forgiving for all shots, and perfect for recoveries from the bunker.
L Grind
Featuring a narrow crescent-shape that allows for maximum green side versatility, but it is also the least forgiving wedge in the lineup.
Most players will benefit from having three to four wedges in their bag, which leads to tighter distance gaps and more full swings. Having different grind options that includes one high and one mid bounce club in your wedge set will create more versatility in your shotmaking for various lies and conditions.
How do you know if your wedges’ grooves need repair? It appears that the only remedy beyond normal cleaning, is buying new.
It would be great if there was something similar to analyzing tire tread with wedges.
Good question. Groove wear is a natural part of a wedge’s life cycle. There are a few factors that would contribute to the wear (frequency of play, debris on the ball, bunker shots). Our staff can evaluate your wedges and offer their opinion, but you’ll notice most of impact on the course and how it affects your spin.