FAIRHAVEN, Mass. (Jan. 26, 2016) – Today at the PGA Merchandise Show in Florida, Titleist announced a new family of Vokey wedges aimed at improving all aspects of your short game.
The Titleist Vokey Design SM6 wedges target (excuse the pun) improved distance gapping, shot versatility, and spin control. We watched a number of PGA professionals put them to the test for the first time at the PGA Merchandise Show in Florida – see video above – and came to the easy conclusion that many players are going to treat themselves to new wedges before the 2016 golf season starts in earnest.
Tour players like Jordan Spieth are a step ahead of you – he opened 2016 with a win at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions carrying four SM6 wedges. Spieth first put the SM6’s in play in November at the WGC-HSBC Champions event. At the CareerBuilder Challenge Jason Dufner -- who switched to three SM6 models at the Shriners Hospital for Children Open – came away with a win. No word yet whether the amazing wedge shot Dufner almost holed from between the rocks on No. 17 did any damage to his SM6. But we know for sure it’s a shot that’s going to replayed on all of the 2016 PGA Tour highlight reels!
Vokey wedges are know for their “something for all styles of play” variety, and Mr. Vokey is a pioneer in wedge-fitting. Let’s take a look at some of the technologies that provide better distance control, shot versatility, and the spin you need around the green, all while retaining the ever-important buttery feel.
First of all, the SM6 wedges incorporate a groundbreaking new Progressive Center of Gravity (CG) design which aligns the CG with the impact position of each loft. This helps produce precise distance and trajectory control with exceptional feel. Engineered using cutting-edge CAD technology, the Progressive CG is visible technology on the back of the wedge.
The low loft (46º-52º) SM6 models feature a low CG that increases ball speed on average by 1.5 mph (3-5 yards). This low CG position provides a precisely aligned progression from a typical iron set. It is visible technology, highlighted by a thinner topline and raised lower section. That extra distance and smoother transition from the traditional irons is sure to boost confidence on middle-wedge distances, and make those 10-20 yard gaps easier to fill.
On the middle lofts (54º & 56º) you’ll find a mid CG position, precisely aligned between the low lofts and high lofts, that provides precise distance gapping and exceptional feel.
Most visible to the eye when comparing the SM6 with previous models is the raised upper section behind the face (it looks really cool too) on the higher lofted models (58º-62º). Raising the upper section moves the CG info precise alignment with the impact position of these high lofted wedges, resulting in a tighter distance dispersion, improved trajectory control and better feel.
GRIND OPTIONS
And, as you know, Bob Vokey is a master craftsman known for producing multiple Tour-proven grinds. In the SM6 line, you’ll find five sole grinds that have been fine-tuned through Bob’s work with the world’s best shot makers, providing players with all short game styles improved shot versatility for their swing type, shot making style and course conditions. All five of these SM6 grinds (L, M, S, F, K) are currently in play across the worldwide professional tours. GROOVES – THEY JUST KEEP GETTING BETTER
New 100% inspected proprietary Spin Milled TX4 grooves and face texture deliver more spin (up to 200 rpm more spin on average) with more consistent spin control. These grooves are engineered with a machine milled, parallel face texture that creates a sharper, more consistent groove edge. The Vokey SM6’s TX4 grooves feature two groove geometries: a narrower, deeper groove for the 46º-54º lofts; and a wider, shallower groove in the 56º-62º lofts. The parallel face texture and progressive groove geometries optimize ball-to-groove edge contact, producing more spin and control around the greens.
Available in golf shops beginning March 11, Vokey SM6 wedges are available in 46º to 62º lofts and three finishes: Tour Chrome, Steel Gray and Jet Black (raw).
ADVANCED PERSONALIZATION AND CUSTOMIZATION
SM6 wedges can be custom ordered with a wide range of specifications and personalization, including an industry-leading selection of shafts, grips, shaft bands, ferrules, stamping and paint fill. For a complete list of personalization and custom options, visit Vokey.com.
PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
Vokey Design SM6 wedges are available in golf shops beginning March 11 at $149 MAP ($169 MSRP).
