It’s time for the U.S. Open.
At the U.S. Open, Oakmont Country Club is known for showing no mercy, and this year’s setup is no exception. The rough is over four inches tall in spots and incredibly dense—what some players call “borderline unplayable.” Wedge play becomes absolutely critical at the U.S. Open, as getting the ball out of the thick rough becomes a victory in itself, and it requires real speed and commitment to escape.
Oakmont’s bunkers, heavily sanded and deep, demand more than a standard splash shot—players must accelerate through the ball with authority to get out cleanly. In these moments, the condition of a player's wedge grooves is vital. Fresh grooves help the ball lift and spin properly, even from sand or deep grass, allowing for the control needed to get on the green.
Wedge selection this week is about more than loft—it's about precision under pressure. Many players may be choosing to go with Vokey WedgeWorks-specific grinds: the A+ Grind–for players who favor a smooth, fast-feeling wedge through the turf; the K* Grind–a result of adding heel-to-toe relief to allow for more ease when hitting open face shots and allow players to enjoy better bunker performance they have come to expect from a K Grind. Both grinds are well suited for navigating dense lies and deep bunkers. “Oakmont is a beast on its own,” says Vokey Tour Representative Aaron Dill, “K* and A+ Grinds have wider and more forgiving bases to help exit sand and grass, but also add some height and stopping power around and into greens.”
At Oakmont, any extra edge in spin or control becomes a competitive advantage. So, how do players get better spin and control on their wedges? Fresh grooves.
With a course this demanding, players can't risk dulled grooves or worn-out wedges. Fresh grooves and clean wedges throughout the week will ensure maximum spin and performance. Clean grooves mean better lift, sharper spin, and the ability to hit the soft, high shots that Oakmont’s greens demand.
With lies this difficult, players know it’s their wedge play that will make or break their week.
K*, A+, and more grind options are available now on Vokey WedgeWorks.
