https://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/from-the-course-report-inside-augustaWed, 08 Apr 2026 20:30:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:0ebd9c33-6045-428c-a500-59c99727671cEsabellaBarbaWhy Wedge Play Matters at Augusta If there’s one place on the golf calendar where every detail matters just a little more, it’s at Augusta National. And if you want a true inside look at how the best in the world prepare, you listen to someone like Aaron Dill, Vokey’s Tour Representative, who works side-by-side with players throughout the week dialing in one of the most important parts of their game: wedges. “Players are noticeably excited during the week,” Dill says. “I notice each year that players are not aggressively looking for changes in wedges unless there is a noticeable change in conditions or a loss in confidence.” Instead, the focus is on refinement. “Most often I receive requests for fresh grooves and some short game time to validate what is currently in the bag.” Wedge play isn’t just important at Augusta—it’s a lifeline. “In general, all elements of your game need to be on when playing in the first major of the season,” Dill explains. “When issues arise off the tee or from the fairway, it’s very important that your wedge play is sharp.” The players who contend aren’t guessing—they’re making calculated decisions and choosing setups that give them both versatility and total confidence. Augusta Conditions: Turf, Greens, and Bunkers Augusta National demands precision from the ground up. The turf is consistently tight, green, and firm underneath, with very little second cut to factor in. “Short game performance is very important during the first major of the year,” Dill says. “The green shapes and curvatures require players to be precise in where they land the ball and how they hope it reacts after it touches down.” Every shot is defined not just by where it lands—but how it reacts. The bunkers add another layer to that challenge. “The bunkers are excellent at Augusta National and feature a very fine texture with a bright white appearance,” Dill explains. “This unique sand is made from quartz and its texture and compaction does an outstanding job of reducing plugged lies.” But there’s a tradeoff. “The ball won’t plug, but it can be difficult to create more spin in the fine quartz sand,” he adds—forcing players to adjust both technique and expectations. Wedge Setup at Augusta: Confidence Starts with the Right Grind “For most, we see players play their standard gamers,” Dill says. “Most will choose a lower bounce option with either a thin or wide flange for bunker play.” For players who are aggressive through the sand, thinner soles tend to win out. “For players with high confidence in the sand, they tend to deliver the wedge with more speed so a thinner sole of a T Grind or L Grind is acceptable.” For others, forgiveness becomes key. “For a softer delivery, adding some sole width with 06K Grind , K* Grind or even M Grind can be helpful.” What a player sees at address can change everything. “When it comes to course setup, visuals are so important—especially when you are opening the face,” Dill explains. “Players will choose wedges with thinner flanges or wedges with heel relief to keep the leading edges down.” Around Augusta’s tight lies and firm conditions, that visual confidence is critical. It’s all about balance—finding a lob wedge that looks right when the face is open, performs in firm turf, and still offers enough forgiveness in the bunkers. At Augusta, that balance isn’t just helpful. It’s essential.SM11Tourhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/wedgeworksgrindsexplainedTue, 31 Mar 2026 19:15:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:390e7c65-1676-4c93-9bc1-2890f1da3ebeAshleyBlackFinding the perfect match for your swing and turf conditions is the fastest way to sharpen your short game. If you’ve ever felt your wedge "dig" too deep or "bounce" off the turf into a thinned shot, you're likely playing the wrong grind. Bob Vokey has a solution for that. Vokey WedgeWorks grinds are Tour-inspired grinds that were created to help every golfer sharpen their short game–no matter their swing, lie, or course conditions. In addition to Vokey SM11’s six in-line grinds and industry-leading number of loft, bounce and grind configurations (27), golfers have access to five additional lob wedge grinds: L, A, K*, A+ and V . The 62M joins WedgeWorks as well for players seeking more loft in Master Craftsman Bob Vokey’s favorite sole grind. Here is a breakdown of our WedgeWorks exclusive grinds and how they compare to the classics: T Grind vs. L Grind: The Low Bounce Specialists Both the T Grind and L Grind are designed for firm conditions and players with a shallow attack angle. They feature relief on the heel, toe, and trailing edge to keep the leading edge low. The Difference: The T Grind is t he ultimate "low bounce" option for maximum versatility, while the L Grind o ffers a slightly wider sole and less aggressive relief than the T Grind — providing a bit more "safety" while still acting as a low-bounce wedge. Voke’s Advice: Choose the T Grind if you have a very precise touch and play on firm turf. Choose the L Grind if you want low bounce but find the T Grind digs a little too much into the ground. L Grind vs. A Grind: Smoothness Through the Turf The A Grind is a direct evolution of the L Grind. It was born on Tour from players wanting a low-bounce wedge that felt even "faster" as it moved through the grass. The Difference: Although both WedgeWorks grinds, the A Grind is essentially an L Grind with the trailing edge smoothed out. This prevents the back of the wedge from dragging or bouncing off the turf during the swing. Voke’s Advice: Choose the L Grind for a traditional, crisp low-bounce feel. Choose the A Grind if you like the L Grind’s performance but want a smoother, "quicker" feel with less drag or bounce from the back edge. M Grind vs. A+ Grind: High Versatility, Less Drag The M Grind is a fan favorite for its versatility on open-faced shots. However, some players feel the back edge of the M Grind creates a " thumping " sensation or drags through the impact zone. The Solution: Th e A+ Grind t akes the geometry of the M Grind and smooths the transition edges. You get the same shot-making ability as the M Grind but with a quicker, smoother feel through the turf. Voke’s Advice: Choose the M Grind if you are a versatile shot-maker who likes a standard, multi-purpose feel. Choose the A+ Grind if you love the M Grind shape but want the club to glide faster through the grass without the back edge dragging or bouncing. .06K Grind vs. K* Grind: The Open-Face Wide Sole The K Grind is known for its wide, high-bounce sole—great for bunkers but sometimes tricky to use for "flop shots" if opened wide. The K* Grind is a modified .06 K Grind. It adds heel and trailing edge relief so the club sits lower to the ground when the face is open. It also features a "ribbon" of bounce on the leading edge to prevent it from digging when you hit square-faced shots. Voke’s Advice: Choose the .06 K Grind if you want a wedge that has full sole forgiveness and plays well out of the bunkers and tighter lies. Choose the K* Grind if you want that same K-Grind forgiveness but need the ability to open the face even more for specialty shots or .06 K digs too much on fuller shots. The "Middle Ground": M Grind vs. D Grind vs. V Grind This is the most common area of confusion for golfers. These three grinds all offer heel, toe, and trailing edge relief, but they sit on a spectrum of "forgiveness" and "playability." M Grind: The baseline for versatility. D Grind: The "High Bounce" version of the M Grind. V Grind: The perfect "In-Between." It plays with more bounce than the M Grind on square shots (preventing digging), but because the sole is narrower than the D Grind, it stays lower to the ground on open-faced shots. Voke’s Advice: Choose the M Grind if you have a neutral swing and want a do-it-all wedge. Choose the D Grind if you have a steeper swing and want versatility. Choose the V Grind if the M Grind digs too much on full shots, but the D Grind feels too "bouncy" on shots when you try to open the face.SM11WedgeWorkshttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/wedgeworksperformancegrindsWed, 25 Mar 2026 16:25:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:146eef81-da11-4a83-b22a-94a9dadf3a7fAshleyBlackWedgeWorks grinds are the direct result of Master Craftsman Bob Vokey and Vokey Tour Rep Aaron Dill spending decades around the green with the world’s best golfers. By collaborating with tour pros to solve specific greenside challenges, Bob Vokey and Aaron Dill have created a lineup of tour-proven options that provide specialized performance for every swing. These grinds are inspired by unique swings, styles, and conditions–allowing you to find the exact tools to sharpen your short game. The L Grind The L is a narrow-soled, low-bounce wedge featuring heel, toe, and trailing edge relief. Positioned between the narrow T and the slightly wider M, it is designed specifically for firm to neutral turf conditions or shallower swings around the green. From the Tour Truck: Aaron Dill notes that the L Grind offers "slightly more protection from excessive digging" compared to other low-bounce models. On the PGA TOUR, this is currently played by players like Ludvig Åberg, Brian Harman, J.T. Poston, and Sungjae Im . Voke’s Advice: The L Grind is for the player who wants a low-bounce wedge they can really open up, but still needs a little safety net to keep the leading edge from digging too deep on square-faced shots. The A Grind The A Grind was created by smoothing out the "ribbon" (grind lines) of an L Grind. This modification creates a sole that moves through the turf with low resistance, ideal for firm, tight conditions. From the Tour Truck: This design originated from conversations with Geoff Ogilvy to handle firm Australian Sand Belt conditions. It’s a proven winner, notably used by the 2023 U.S. Open champion to capture his first major. Voke’s Advice: If you play on tight fairways and want a wedge that feels like it’s "skated" through the turf without grabbing at all, the A Grind is your tool. The K* Grind A Tour favorite, the K* is a modification of the wide-soled K Grind. It features a steeper "pre-wear" on the leading edge along with heel and toe relief, making it a versatile wider sole grind option. From the Tour Truck: While the wide sole "excels out of the bunker," the added relief "adds greenside versatility when the face is opened." It’s a staple in the bags of Justin Thomas, Cameron Young, and the 2024 Champion Golfer of the Year . Voke’s Advice: The K* Grind works best for the golfer who loves the forgiveness of a wide sole out of the bunker but still wants the freedom to get creative and hit high flops around the green. The A+ Grind The A+ is a mid-bounce option created by removing the grind lines from an M Grind. This allows the leading edge to sit lower to the ground, offering a faster feel through the turf than the standard M. From the Tour Truck: Aaron Dill noticed that some players, like the 2013 Masters champion , found the standard M sole "a little too bouncy for their liking." The A+ "unlocked a bit more versatility" for these players. Voke’s Advice: The A+ Grind is for the loyal M Grind player who finds the standard sole a bit too “bouncy”. It sits lower at address and moves faster through the ground. The V Grind The V is a high-performance, mid-to-high bounce wedge. It features a high-bounce forward section for forgiveness and aggressive heel, toe, and trailing edge relief for shot-making. From the Tour Truck: This grind is built for players like Jackson Koivun who are "a little steeper in their deliveries." The forward bounce is essential in "softer conditions, or if they’re playing on courses with grainy turf." Voke’s Advice: The V Grind is the go-to if you tend to take deep divots or play on soft, lush courses. It provides maximum protection against "chunking" while still letting you hit soft, open-faced shots. The 62M Grind This takes Bob Vokey’s personal favorite versatile mid-bounce grind and bumps the loft to 62 degrees. It is built for shorter distances and high-launching shots around the green. From the Tour Truck: The M Grind is "exceptionally versatile" across various conditions. The 62-degree version is specifically for players looking to "elevate and stop the golf ball quickly from shorter distances." Voke’s Advice: The 62M Grind is for the shot-maker who needs that extra bit of loft to clear obstacles and stop the ball instantly when they have very little green to work with.SM11WedgeWorkshttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/wedge-shots-that-decide-sawgrassWed, 11 Mar 2026 17:24:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:04829a1e-949a-4d73-bb45-6638e3ea077cEsabellaBarbaDialing In Wedges at The Players Championship Every year at TPC Sawgrass, the best players in the world arrive knowing the course will demand precision. The Stadium Course isn’t just a test of driving or iron play — it’s a test of wedge control . As Bob Vokey has said for decades: “Wedges are your scoring clubs.” And nowhere is that more evident than during The Players Championship. The Most Important Distance in Golf: 90–120 Yards On the PGA Tour, many approach shots come from 90 to 120 yards . These distances show up after layups on par 5s, conservative tee shots on short par 4s, or approaches that demand careful positioning. At Sawgrass, players don’t simply try to hit the green. They’re trying to hit specific numbers — precise carry distances that land the ball in small scoring windows. That’s why professionals build what’s often called a wedge matrix, dialing in repeatable swing lengths that produce predictable yardages. When a player knows their 90-, 100-, or 110-yard shot exactly, they can attack pins with confidence instead of guessing. Precision Over Power From these distances, success at Sawgrass comes down to clean contact and distance control . A wedge struck slightly heavy can lose several yards of carry. A thin shot can fly long and miss the green. At a course with small, firm greens like the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course, even a small miss can turn a birdie chance into a difficult scramble. That’s why preparation with wedges is so important leading into a week at Sawgrass. Players spend time dialing in their carry distances and practicing controlled swings so they can execute the exact number required. This is also where equipment matters. Vokey SM11 Wedges are crafted with the goal of delivering cleaner contact , controlled flight , and smarter spin — the qualities players rely on when a shot needs to be exact. “There are a couple of major defenses that this golf course is going to test players with. That is the amount of sand that’s in the bunkers, the firmness of the greens, and the tight, firm collection areas around the greens. Players are going to lean on different types of grinds and bounces, mainly Ts, Ls, and K*s, for versatility… This is going to be a real test. It’s going to separate the good from the great, and players who can get it up and down around these greens are going to have a good chance at hoisting the trophy on Sunday.” -Aaron Dill, Director of Player Relations, Vokey Design With spin-milled grooves and Tour-proven grinds, Vokey wedges are built to give players the control they need when the margin for error is small. The Ultimate Wedge Test: The 17th Nothing highlights wedge precision at Sawgrass quite like the iconic 17th Hole at TPC Sawgrass. The island-green par 3 is one of the most famous holes in golf — and one of the most nerve-testing wedge shots players face all year. With water surrounding the green, players must fully commit to the yardage and trust the shot they’ve practiced. There’s no room for hesitation or guessing. It’s the type of moment wedges are designed for — a precise yardage, a committed swing, and a shot that has to be executed perfectly. Because when the pressure is highest, the players who trust their wedges — and their numbers — give themselves the best chance of success at TPC Sawgrass.SM11Tourhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/behind-the-grindsFri, 06 Mar 2026 20:17:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:21a8ec63-759b-42fe-ad2e-b10476ae191eEsabellaBarbaThe closer you get to the green, the more shots you have to choose from. Distance, lie, and pin placement can help determine the shot you need to play, but it’s up to you to pick the right wedge for the job. And while many golfers make the mistake of choosing their wedge based on loft, the question you should start asking yourself is “which grind is right for this shot?” T M F S D K At first glance, this might look like a line from a vision test. But these six letters represent one of the most important choices you’ll make before attempting any wedge shot. Each letter corresponds to a distinct Vokey grind that’s engineered to deliver specific performance for specific types of shots. “The role of a grind is to deliver the clubhead in a way that promotes consistent, solid contact. But as your strategy changes around the green, your technique changes, your delivery changes—and your wedges need to change with you. That’s why different grinds exist. Because no single sole design can handle all the shots and conditions you’ll face in a round of golf. “Grinds are modifications to the sole that add versatility or forgiveness. The shape has to work with your particular technique and course conditions. You need the right tools in your toolbox.” - Bob Vokey HOW A GRIND IS BORN Each Vokey wedge grind has been designed to meet specific on-course challenges. They weren’t engineered on a whiteboard. They were born on the range, in the bunkers, and around the greens where Bob kept hearing Tour players say, “I need something that helps me hit this particular shot.” A player presents a challenge. Bob listens. Bob shapes. He removes material. He adds camber. He adjusts bounce. He tests. He listens again. This cycle repeats until the new grind goes in their bag. Once a player adds a new grind and begins having success with it, others take notice. Requests start to roll in. And when enough players try it that grind gains enough traction on Tour, the Vokey team knows they have something that’s worth bringing to market. “If the best players in the world are using it, you’ll feel like you have the best thing possible when it’s in your hands.” - Bob Vokey THE ORIGIN OF EVERY SM11 GRIND The SM11 grinds represent the culmination of Bob’s decades-long collaboration with the best wedge players in the world. As Vokey loyalists may know, the letter assigned to each grind is usually a subtle nod to the player that Bob developed it for. But to fully understand what each grind solves, who it’s best for, and what it can mean for your game, we need to look back at why they were created in the first place… THE F GRIND A Full Sole for Full Wedge Shots Bob introduced F Grind prototypes on Tour in 1997, and it has been a core Vokey grind ever since. It’s a clean, simple, full-sole design that’s built for stability and consistency. It’s also the most forgiving across the SM11 lineup. When you’re hitting a full wedge shot, predictability is paramount—and that’s where the forgiveness of F Grind really shines. With a 48°, 50°, or 52° in hand, most players aren’t opening or closing the face like you would with a lob wedge. That’s why Bob kept the F Grind design straightforward. The full sole and higher bounce resist digging, allowing the club to get through the turf quickly. It’s designed to help players be aggressive on fuller swings without fear of the leading edge digging in. As you move closer to the green, the F Grind can also be a dependable chipping option, especially from challenging grainy lies. If your club tends to stick into the ground on square-face chips, the F Grind can act as a safety net, gliding the club through the grass instead of snagging in it. “In places like Florida, where there’s grainy Bermuda that's difficult to chip on, I’ll give a player an F Grind, and they’ll go, ‘Oh my gosh. This is so easy to use. Where has this been my whole life?” -Aaron Dill, Director of Player Relations, Vokey Design What F Grind is best for: Full swings Slightly steeper attack angles Slightly softer turf conditions Chipping on grainy Bermuda Who F Grind is best for: Anyone who wants stability, forgiveness, and consistency in their full-swing wedge shots—especially with PW and GW. THE M GRIND Multi-Purpose Greenside Creativity Bob Vokey has often said that everything started with the F Grind. “From there,” he recalls, “all I was trying to do was remove the shape of the sole to let players hit different kinds of shots.” The M Grind emerged from this idea. It was born from the realization that some of the best wedge players on Tour were already modifying their clubs in ways that the standard lineup didn’t yet account for. Before M Grind, Bob noticed that certain players wanted very specific grind modifications—subtle changes that gave them a creative edge around the greens. One player asked for toe material removed so he could play delicate, toe-down chip shots. Another player wanted more heel and trailing edge relief, so the club would lay flatter on open-face shots. Bob’s solution was the M Grind. A single, versatile sole that united these common Tour modifications. By removing material from the toe, heel, and trailing edge, he created a multi-purpose grind that encourages face manipulation, creativity, and fluid turf interaction. Through this, Bob introduced a shotmaker’s wedge grind that could uniquely adapt to almost any scenario. But there’s even more magic built into M Grind when you consider its ability to perform from the fairway and sand as well. While the shape of the grind promotes precision on short chips, its mid-width sole provides added forgiveness on fuller swings and bunker shots. “I think M Grind is Bob’s best work. It gives you the best of both worlds. It has the bounce you need to hit square-face shots and a shape that allows you to open up the face around the green.” -Aaron Dill What M Grind is best for: Greenside creativity Open-faced shots Bunker forgiveness Variable turf conditions Who M Grind is best for: Players who vary their technique around the green. Players who picture the shot in their head and need a tool to play it. THE D GRIND The Player’s High-Bounce Wedge The D Grind is essentially the big brother to the M Grind. As the season rolled on and conditions softened, some Tour players began to comment that their M Grind was starting to dig too much on chip shots. For Bob, there was a simple solution: add some bounce to it. That extra bounce would keep the club from digging on steeper swings or softer turf while preserving the versatile shape that players love around the greens. Side-by-side the M and D Grinds look closely related. But the D Grind’s defining feature is its increased forward bounce. This creates a big difference in performance, especially when the wedge makes contact with a square face—making D Grind great for full fairway shots, but highly reliable for chipping shots as well. So, if you notice your square-face chip shots are digging, the D Grind provides a more forgiving bounce option to get the club up and out of the turf. And just like the M Grind, the D Grind features trailing-edge relief that keeps the leading edge tight to the ground when the face is opened. It’s a strategic evolution of the M Grind that gives D Grind a versatile sole design, with added protection against digging. What D Grind is best for: Steeper attack angles Soft turf conditions Preventing deep divots Combining forgiveness and versatility Who D Grind is best for: Players who experience digging chip shots or deep divots and want greenside versatility with added forgiveness. THE T GRIND For Sharper Shotmaking The T Grind is another direct descendant of the M Grind. At the time, the M Grind was already wildly popular on Tour. But as players started competing on tighter and firmer conditions, Bob noticed that the leading edge wasn’t sitting quite low enough when players fully opened the face. To solve for this, he decided to remove even more material off the M Grind. By reworking the shape to feature an extremely narrow sole with low bounce and a removed trailing edge, Bob crafted T Grind to sit as flush to the ground as possible. This gave Tour players an ultra-clean setup that unlocked the confidence to play a wider variety of high-precision shots. What T Grind is best for: Ultra-tight lies Firm turf conditions Open-face shots Maximum versatility Who T Grind is best for: Golfers who are comfortable playing a variety of different shots around the greens. Players who value precision over forgiveness. THE K GRIND Shaped for Greenside Forgiveness The K Grind didn’t directly evolve from an existing grind. It emerged from an existing need. Bob has always maintained that no amount of testing can replicate “Sunday afternoon pressure.” And as Bob studied those back-nine battles unfolding on Tour, he noticed that bunkers tend to be one of the spots where nerves show up the most. Especially in soft sand, the margin for error tightens and, suddenly, a slightly missed strike could lead to a missed championship. The game needed a more forgiving bunker wedge, and the K Grind was his solution. “The K Grind will do wonders for a player who is struggling out of the bunker. It’s very forgiving because its sole width and camber are working together. It’s not going to dig like other sand wedges will. K Grind makes bunker play really user friendly.” -Bob Vokey In SM11, the K Grind is available in two distinct bounce options. The high-bounce 12 K Grind is best for bunker play and soft conditions, while the low-bounce 06 K Grind delivers forgiveness off tighter, firmer lies. What 12 K Grind is best for: Soft sand Soft turf Deep rough Added forgiveness Who 12 K Grind is best for: Any player who wants the largest margin for error in their highest-lofted wedge. What 06 K Grind is best for: Firmer sand Firmer turf Added forgiveness Who 06 K Grind is best for: Players who want the forgiving greenside performance of K Grind, adjusted for firmer conditions. THE S GRIND Narrow and Versatile The S Grind was first developed as players prepared for The Open Championship—where firm, wind-hardened links turf demand a completely different kind of wedge performance. On these conditions, wedges with a wider sole and higher bounce can work against a player. Instead of offering forgiveness, the sole can ricochet off the turf too quickly, leading to shots that launch extremely low—or come out thin. To address this problem, Bob crafted a grind with more trailing edge relief and a noticeably narrower sole. This allowed the club to cut through firm turf and make solid contact more consistently. It delivered exactly what players needed for Open-style conditions, and it led to S Grind earning a permanent place in the Vokey lineup. Since then, Bob has noticed a pattern in his fittings. The S Grind is almost always one of the final two or three wedges players are seriously considering adding to their bag. And when a player is torn between options, Bob often recommends the S Grind because he knows it will perform, especially on the square wedge shots golfers rely on every round. In the words of Bob, “The S Grind is one of those wedges that just works.” What S Grind is best for: Square shots Faster feel through the turf Variable turf conditions Who S Grind is best for: Players who want maximum consistency and smooth turf interaction on square-face shots. KNOW YOUR LETTERS Finding the right wedges is all about creating consistent, solid contact across all the shots you play. But that’s almost impossible if you default to the same grind throughout your wedge set. Tour players know this, which is why nearly all of them use a variety of grinds—each chosen for a specific purpose. Before building your wedge set, you have to consider the conditions of your course, the types of shots you like to hit, and the most challenging shots you commonly face. Once you understand how you plan to use each wedge, you can begin to identify which grinds support your strengths and provide forgiveness where you need it most. “We’re trying to help players build a bag of confidence. That doesn’t always mean they’re all high bounce or low bounce—we want a setup that makes them feel so comfortable that they're not even thinking about their grind, they’re just playing golf.” -Aaron Dill THE GRIND CONTINUES For decades, Bob Vokey has set the evolving standard for wedge performance. Technologies have advanced, grooves have sharpened, and precise machining has transformed the modern wedge. But through every generation, Bob’s principle has never changed: the right grind is a player’s best path to better wedge play. “What we’ve done since the very beginning, and what we continue doing today, is we listen and get feedback. SM11 didn’t just come from SM10. It comes from all the way back. The 200 Series can be seen in it. Spin Milled is in it. We learn something new from every series. And we’ve put everything we’ve learned into SM11.” -Bob Vokey The accumulated insight from Bob, Aaron, and the Vokey Design Team culminates in the six legacy grinds that define SM11. Paired with expanded loft and bounce configurations, they give every golfer the ability to build a wedge setup that uniquely matches their delivery, their course conditions, and the shots they rely on most. And even now, after decades of industry-defining work and an overwhelmingly positive response to SM11, Bob’s still grinding at 86 years old. “When you love what you do, you just keep doing it. And I don’t have anything better to do... nothing better than this!” - Bob Vokeyhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/most-played-wedge-on-tourFri, 06 Mar 2026 19:34:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:7f14d399-6cb7-47d7-a86f-99a0892905c3EsabellaBarbaVokey Design has earned its position as the Tour’s wedge of choice through decades of sustained trust, relentless refinement, and an obsession with getting wedge performance right. Through this, Vokey has practically become shorthand for short game excellence. Since 2004, Vokey has been the most played wedge on the PGA TOUR—racking up hundreds of wins and dozens of major championships. Year after year, the best wedge players in the world have to choose what goes in their bag, and their choice is Vokey. This kind of sustained success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through an uncompromising standard of performance, unmatched one-on-one support for Tour players, and the vision of the game’s most trusted wedgemaker. “Our wedges have stayed so popular because the performance keeps improving from one iteration to the next.” - Bob Vokey With this mindset, new technology doesn’t make it into a Vokey wedge unless it offers a real, measurable benefit—or unless it comes from a direct Tour request. But when a wedge has Tour success like we saw in 2025, it begs the question: where do we go from here? Not only did Vokey continue as the top wedge on the PGA TOUR, it accounted for 56% of all gap, sand, and lob wedges in play. Over the course of the season, Vokey wedges factored in two major championships and 26 total wins. The next nearest competitor had nine. But even as these wedges were stacking up victories, Bob and the Vokey team were already deep into the work that would lead to SM11. As soon as a new product launches, the Vokey team spends the next two years asking questions and taking specific feedback from Tour. Aaron Dill, Bob’s right-hand man for more than 20 years, has seen this process play out before: “Bob is an innovator. But his art stems from listening to players. We’re always trying to find little technologies that make players incrementally better.” - Aaron Dill | Director of Player Relations, Vokey Design Legacy, Refined SM11 builds directly upon what players love about Vokey wedges, while sharpening performance where it matters most. Players will find the same six Tour-proven grinds, now with expanded loft and bounce options. They’ll see their preferred lower launch window, now with greater consistency. And they’ll get industry-leading spin performance, now with more predictability and control from the new Vokey Spin System. Dill describes the changes as, “big improvements that feel like small changes.” They’re significant upgrades to performance, delivered in a way that’s familiar enough for players to add SM11 to their bags without hesitation. This is the pattern that has kept Vokey on top of the Tour for more than two decades. It’s never innovation for innovation’s sake. It’s continuous, iterative improvements that push wedge technology forward while always staying true to what makes them look, feel, and perform like a Vokey. For Bob, being the most played wedge on Tour isn’t the goal when developing a new wedge. But it’s a welcome byproduct. “Being number one on Tour definitely gives me a little pride—maybe a lot of pride. But I always know we can do better. I’m excited to see SM11 in competition, but I’m just as excited to get the feedback and start working on what’s next.” -Bob Vokey For now, players can take advantage of everything SM11 brings to their short game. As for what comes next? Bob and the Vokey team are already working on it. And if history is any indication, they’ll keep pushing things forward—thoughtfully and deliberately.https://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/three-keys-to-great-wedge-playFri, 13 Feb 2026 18:38:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:b51c5e42-7ac2-45ad-b3b8-e40f0c6721d6EsabellaBarbaEvery player is capable of hitting great wedge shots. The challenge is doing it again and again. The secret is mastering the three factors that determine the success of every short game shot: Contact, Flight, and Spin. For Bob Vokey, these aren’t just the ingredients of great wedge play—they’re baked into the DNA of every Vokey wedge. He believes that anyone can become a great wedge player if given the right tools. And with SM11, an expanded grind matrix, unified center of gravity (CG) locations, and a new Vokey Spin System introduce an even better way to make wedge play the most consistent part of your game. Why Contact Matters: Every great wedge shot starts with solid contact. Striking the ball between grooves 2–5 is what sets launch, spin, and distance control in motion. Without solid contact, the entire shot changes. How SM11 Helps You Make Solid Contact: The role of a grind is to deliver the clubhead in a way that promotes consistent, solid contact. Having the right grind for the shot you’re playing is the easiest way to make consistently solid contact. And no one understands the nuances of grind design better than Bob Vokey. Each Vokey wedge sole is the product of Bob’s lifelong collaboration with Tour pros and expert engineers—a decades-long evolution that has led to the six distinct SM11 grinds we have today. As Bob puts it, “Wedges need to be versatile, and every player is different. That’s why we have so many grind options. There is a wedge for every player.” Over the years, Bob and the Vokey Team have refined the six core grinds into reliable tools players trust under pressure. But player insight also revealed opportunities to expand the available configurations. Evolving agronomy and course conditions increased demand for low-bounce profiles, leading to the introduction of the .06 K Grind, an ultra-forgiving, low-bounce sole. On the flip side, player testing showed that 12° of bounce in the wide-soled K Grind delivered the forgiveness needed from soft sand and turf while still allowing for higher, softer, open-face shots. Alongside these, a 44° F Grind rounds out five new additions to the SM11 lineup —creating the most complete system of loft, bounce, and grind options in golf. Click here to learn more about SM11 and see the full list of wedge specs, shafts, and grips. Why Flight Matters: Most golfers picture wedge flight as a soft, high-arcing shot. In reality, the modern game rewards a lower, piercing trajectory that is easier to control. A more penetrating flight tightens distance windows, improves consistency, and removes the unpredictable “floaters” that come up short and cost you strokes. How SM11 Delivers Lower, More Consistent Flight: After solid contact is made, the wedge’s center of gravity (CG) dictates trajectory. Lower CG produces higher flight. Higher CG produces lower flight. The best wedge players know that lower-flighted wedge shots create more consistent spin and better distance control. SM11 delivers that lower, more aggressive flight by positioning CG slightly above the impact point in lob and sand wedges. For gap wedges and pitching wedges, the CG is positioned a touch lower to promote predictable distance control that seamlessly transitions into the iron set. However, there is a fundamental CG challenge in wedge design: as the sole shape changes, the CG moves with it. Historically, that meant that when a golfer switched grinds to fit their technique, the launch window could unintentionally shift as well. Even if their swing didn’t change, the CG did. “Wedge design is like a pulley system—you have to find the right balance. But with SM11, every grind produces the same exact flight window. Players are going to be blown away by that.” - Aaron Dill | Director of Player Relations, Vokey Wedges SM11 solves balancing act by aligning CG positions across every grind within a given loft for the first time ever. Achieving this took an arduous engineering process, requiring countless iterations of topline thickness, hosel length, and material placement to perfectly sync CG across all grinds. Now, as you’re getting fit for an SM11 wedge, you can choose a grind purely on how it fits your swing and turf conditions without worrying about altering flight in the process. Why Spin Matters: Spin is control. The goal of wedge spin isn’t always to generate maximum spin, it’s about creating the right amount of spin to stop the ball close to the hole. Too much spin and the ball will zip off the front edge. Too little spin and the ball will release through the green. Great wedge play lives in the space between when you know exactly where it’s going to stop. How SM11 Improves Spin Control: SM11 introduces the new Vokey Spin System—three technologies working together to deliver consistent, repeatable spin. New Face Texture As a wedge impacts the ball, every millisecond matters. The longer the cover stays on the face, the more opportunity it has to grab the grooves and generate predictable spin. To extend that interaction, SM11 uses a new angled, tooth-like face texture that holds the ball on the face just a fraction longer to deliver more reliable spin control, especially on delicate greenside shots. Deeper Spin Milled Grooves Unwanted debris (grass, sand, moisture) coming between the ball and the face is the enemy of consistent spin. The more efficiently that grooves can channel this debris away, the more reliably they can grab the ball and create spin. To maintain spin across all conditions, SM11 features grooves that are 5% deeper in volume—a change made possible through tighter manufacturing tolerances. The added volume gives debris more room to escape, helping retain spin from the rough, wet turf, and bunkers. Loft-Specific Groove Shapes The way you deliver your wedge changes dramatically based on loft. Lower-lofted pitching wedges and gap wedges are typically played with a square face, while higher-lofted sand wedges and lob wedges can be played more open, introducing more deflection and more risk of the ball climbing up the face. That’s why SM11 features three distinct groove profiles, segmented by loft, to optimize spin performance for how the wedge is actually played. “The consistency of spin from shot to shot is what shines through in SM11.” - Kevin Tassistro | Director of Wedge Development, Vokey Wedges SM11 doesn’t chase maximum spin—it generates the right spin for the specific shot. The Vokey Spin System is designed for predictability and control across all shots from any condition. Whether your ball is perfectly teed up or buried in deep rough, SM11 is engineered to produce fewer fliers, fewer floaters, and more shots that spin and stop exactly as expected. Where the 3 Keys Come Together SM11 wasn’t an overnight breakthrough, it was the result of decades of craftsmanship, Tour feedback, and relentless improvement. It still looks, sounds, and feels unmistakably Vokey, but everything has been sharpened. And even with new specs, new CG placement, and new face technologies, SM11 stays connected to the design principles that have defined Vokey wedge performance year after year: solid contact, controlled flight, and precision spin. “Everything you love about a Vokey, you will get in SM11 with greater consistency. You’ll get the grinds, the beautiful shaping, and the polish. You’ll get the familiar low flight—but you’ll get it more often. You’ll get the familiar spin—but you’ll get it more often. That’s going to produce the confidence that allows golfers to play better and shoot better scores, plain and simple.” - Aaron Dill | Director of Player Relations, Vokey Wedges Every great wedge shot follows a simple progression. The right delivery leads to solid contact. Solid contact produces the right flight. And the right flight creates the right spin. SM11 is engineered to make that progression feel effortless and repeatable—so great wedge play is always within reach.https://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/winning-wedges-of-2025Fri, 02 Jan 2026 22:18:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:bd00023b-c5f6-4b62-81eb-b6aaa14023beEsabellaBarbaTwenty-six wins. Seven different wedge grinds. Vokey Design wedges have been the most played wedge on the PGA TOUR since 2004 . In 2025, 56 % of the gap, sand and lob wedges played on the PGA TOUR were Vokey wedge s . Players gaming at least one Vokey wedge won 26 times on TOUR this season. Check out which grinds were the mo st popular on the PGA Tour. 2025 Wins with .06K Grind The CJ Cup Byron Nelson, PGA Championship, The Memorial, The Open Championship, FedEx St. Jude Championship, BMW Championship, and Procore Championship. 2025 Wins with T Grind Sony Open, Cognizant Classic, Arnold Palmer Invitational, Texas Children’s Houston Open, RBC Heritage, Corales Puntacana Championship, Barracuda Championship, Baycurrent Classic, and The RSM Classic. 2025 Wins with K* Grind Rocket Classic, 3M Open, Wyndham Championship, and Bank of Utah Championship. 2025 Wins with L Grind Mexico Open at VidantaWorld , Valero Texas Open, and the John Deere Classic. 2025 Wins with M, D, S Grind Genesis Invitational (M), Sanderson Farms Championship (D), and Butterfield Bermuda Championship (S) .TourSM10https://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/benefits-of-different-wedge-bounce-and-grind-optionsFri, 21 Nov 2025 17:52:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:61ad03a0-b8f3-4b0a-91d3-2d1575630d86EsabellaBarbaChoosing the right wedge setup is about more than just loft. Bounce and grind options determine how your club interacts with the turf and sand, and having the right mix can make your short game much more versatile. Bounce & Grind Defined: Bounce is the angle that prevents digging. Grind is the sole shaping that adds versatility. High Bounce / Wider Soles: Best for soft turf or fluffy sand, adding forgiveness and helping steep swingers avoid digging. Low Bounce / Aggressive Grinds: Perfect for firm turf and tight lies, allowing more face manipulation for creative shots. Ideal for shallow swingers. Why Mix Options in Your Bag? Carrying wedges with different bounce and grind profiles gives you tools for every lie, avoids overlap, and builds confidence. Practical Fit: Match to your swing style (steep = more bounce, shallow = less), course conditions (soft = more, firm = less), and shot preferences. Bounce and grind aren’t one-size-fits-all. They should reflect your swing, your course conditions, and how you like to play shots. A balanced wedge setup ensures you’re prepared for any lie around the green, turning tricky situations into scoring opportunities. Watch Full Video Below https://youtu.be/HaaY4qCH5jAInstructionSM10https://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/how-to-hit-greenside-chips-from-uneven-liesFri, 14 Nov 2025 20:32:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:285f3355-1115-4f49-8d7b-66b95f750400EsabellaBarbaUnderstand the Lie: When the ball sits above or below your feet, or your stance is on a slope, it changes contact, swing path, and ball flight. Ball Above Your Feet: Stand a little taller, expect a higher launch and possible hook. Adjust your alignment and clubface to keep control. Ball Below Your Feet: Bend more at the knees and stay steady. Expect a flatter launch and tendency to fade or slice. Keep posture solid to avoid thinning the shot. Match your Shoulders to the Slope: Align your shoulders and torso with the angle of the ground. This helps make clean, consistent contact. Club Selection Matter: Slopes affect effective loft. Choose more or less loft depending on whether the lie steepens or shallows your swing. Swing with Balance: Let your rotation and tempo adjust naturally. Don’t force a “perfect” swing. Work with the slope rather than against it. Uneven lies don’t have to wreck your short game. By recognizing how slopes affect ball flight and making small adjustments to stance, alignment, and club choice, you can maintain solid contact and predictable results. With practice on different slopes, you’ll step into these tricky situations with confidence instead of doubt. Watch Full Video Below: https://youtu.be/oU6x58ALxwsInstructionhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/fine-tune-your-short-game-strategyFri, 24 Oct 2025 16:16:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:a78a85b8-7042-4a8f-a5a9-8374a667ae11EsabellaBarbaAssess the shot first Before you swing, take time to evaluate what you’ve got: the lie, slope, height of grass, green firmness, pin location, wind, etc. All that influences what shot you should choose. Choose the correct shot type Depending on the situation, choose between different short-game options (chip, pitch, flop, bump and run, etc.). The more tools you have, the more options you can deploy. Think “low risk path” Always consider what the downside is if you miss. When you’re unsure, pick the safer possibility (less margin for error) rather than trying something high-risk. Practice with purpose Breed emphasizes practicing these short game shots from different lies and distances, not just “stand, hit, repeat.” Simulate real-game conditions so you can build confidence. What To Do: Before every short game shot, pause and “read” the whole scenario (lie, trajectory, green condition). Build a repertoire of short-game shots so you're not stuck with just one way. Match the shot to what the situation demands. When in doubt, go with the safer option. Predict what happens if you miss. During practice, mix up your lies, distances, and landing zones so you’re set for anything on the course. Watch the full video below https://youtu.be/IPIoioV9DpIInstructionhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/dial-in-your-distance-gapsFri, 17 Oct 2025 20:50:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:c65d95a5-255b-4a15-a05a-0607af7cf917EsabellaBarbaThe 3 Ingredients for Great Wedge Distance Control First: know your yardage to the pin factoring in things like wind, elevation, lies. Second: have a reliable, repeatable technique so your contact and ball flight are consistent Third: pair which wedge + which swing length produces a certain distance. So you can choose without guessing. Using Different Swing Lengths Mark Blackburn recommends using three different swing lengths (backswing/arc lengths) for each wedge: Half swing (about 7:30 → 9:00 on a “clock face”) Three-quarter swing (9:00 → approximately 10:30) Full swing (≈ 10:30 → 12:00) For each swing length, hit 3-5 balls, record the average distance. Do this drill for each wedge you carry. Label / Mark the Distances After finding average carry or total distances for each swing length, mark them on the shaft of the wedge (or anywhere visible). So, in real-round situations, you can glance at the club and know approximately what distance it gives with that swing length. Repeat this for each wedge so you have a full distance matrix (club + swing length). Technique Differences from Full Irons Blackburn suggests that wedge swings aren’t just scaled down full iron swings; there are subtle differences. Emphasis is on rotation (body turn) driving the swing rather than trying to muscle it. That helps consistency. Good contact, good launch, consistent tempo are important. Watch the full video here https://youtu.be/axtlmsy9K-AInstructionhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/3-shots-using-the-flight-line-advantageFri, 19 Sep 2025 21:53:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:205df9ce-672d-43a3-a416-f8702ad74349EsabellaBarbaSharpening your short game is one of the fastest ways to lower scores . While many players focus on drives and full swings, the real difference often comes from how well you manage shots around the green. That’s where Flight Lines come in. A simple yet powerful tool designed into Vokey Wedges that can take the guesswork out of your setup. What are Flight Lines? Flight Lines refer to the three lines engraved into the hosel of Vokey Wedges meant to help you master three core short game shots: a bump and run, pitch shot, and flop shot . Developed by short game coach Parker McLachlin, each line indicates the ideal shaft lean and setup for the type of shot you intend to hit. Shot #1: Bump and Run To execute a bump and run, use the first line (or the one that is furthest back on the hosel). Aligning your first flight line straight up and down at setup will naturally prompt your hands to shift forward, delofting the club and producing a lower shot that runs out toward the hole. Shot #2: Pitch Shot To accomplish a pitch shot, use the middle of the three flight lines. It emphasizes a neutral set up and stance, great for a slightly farther ball flight and less roll. Shot #3: Flop Shot The most forward Flight Line is your guide for the flop. With the shaft nearly in line with the ball, an open clubface, and a soft right-hand release through impact, you’ll generate high spin and height. This is perfect for getting the ball to stop quickly on the green. Using your Flight Lines, you gain a repeatable system for executing the three most used short game shots with each wedge in your bag. Instead of relying solely on “feel,” you can trust a built-in guide to help you set up correctly every time. This consistency brings variety to your short game in the simplest way, giving you the confidence to get up and down more often. For more on flight lines see “Vokey Wedgeworks Flight Lines with Jonathan Yarwood”InstructionWedgeWorkshttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/blind-wedge-fitting-with-me-and-my-golf-which-vokey-wedge-comes-out-on-topFri, 12 Sep 2025 22:00:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:dfb71c53-5e1f-4031-a0fa-cfbb6e92c596EsabellaBarbaWhen it comes to short game performance, choosing the right wedge is one of the most important equipment decisions a golfer can make. But how do you know which loft, bounce, or grind is truly right for you? In a recent collaboration with Me and My Golf , Piers takes on a blind Vokey wedge fitting —testing different models without knowing which one is in his hands. The goal? To see how his game responds when performance, not preference, leads the way. Why a Blind Fitting? Most golfers naturally gravitate toward what looks familiar or what they’ve always played. By taking away the labels, Piers is forced to focus only on feel, flight, and results . It’s an eye-opening way to uncover which wedge setup actually performs best. Key Moments to Watch Setting the Stage – Piers explains the concept of a blind fitting and what he’s hoping to gain from the process. Loft Testing – How subtle changes in loft affect distance gapping, trajectory, and consistency. Grind & Bounce Trial – Piers hits shots from fairway, tight lies, and sand to see how different grinds interact with the turf. The Reveal – After going through the test, Piers discovers which wedge truly fits his game best—and it’s not necessarily what he expected. Takeaways for Every Golfer – Practical tips on what to consider when getting fit for wedges, and why grind and bounce matter just as much as loft. Whether you’re a single-digit handicapper or just getting serious about your short game, this video highlights the value of a proper wedge fitting. You’ll see firsthand how different setups can transform performance—and why sometimes the “feel” in your hands doesn’t tell the whole story. Watch the Full Video HereInstructionhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/wedge-fitting-experienceTue, 02 Sep 2025 21:45:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:cdc4b761-412b-4691-8bfb-1424b768b406CoreyGerrardStory By: Esabella Barba Before my summer internship, I saw wedge fittings as something reserved for elite golfers and tour professionals, so I had never considered one for myself. After learning about the power of properly fit wedges, however, I realized that assumption could not have been farther from the truth. My wedge fitting was a personal , tour-quality experience focused entirely on the way I approach wedge play including evaluation, distance gapping, bounce and grind education, and performance. Step 1: Equipment Evaluation We started by looking at the wedges I already had in my bag. Based on just their loft, bounce, grind and groovewear, my fitter was able to immediately identify critical gaps that were limiting my game. Additionally, I began by hitting my most commonly used wedge shots to show where my strengths were and how my mis-hits happened. This portion would serve as the “before” in a before and after comparison to come. Step 2: Gap Fitting Next, we went to the short game area to hit from a variety of yardages and zero in on any setup mismatches. We tested various lofts to make sure I had consistent spacing between clubs, so I wouldn’t be forced to manufacture awkward shots. My fitter explained how my original gap wedge and pitching wedge only had two degrees of separation and this was causing nearly identical distances with different clubs. As Bob Vokey advises, a properly-gapped setup features four-to-six degrees of loft separation , so my fitter was able to correct where I had been going wrong and get rid of the dead weight in my bag. Step 3: Bounce and Grind Fitting Following that, we experimented with different bounces and grinds, testing each one blindly to see which ones worked best for my swing. As a golfer who has lived by “It’s not the club. It’s me,” for the past ten years, it was refreshing to learn that I didn’t have to alter my natural tendencies in order to execute around the green. I had an expert at my fingertips explaining why a lower bounce wedge was what my swing needed, while simultaneously realizing that an effortless swing is possible because I knew instantly that it just felt right. Step 4: Greenside performance Finally, it was time to see if my new tools could truly get the job done. We hit all of the necessary short game shots, including pitches, chips and bunker shots with multiple grinds. By the time my fitting had concluded, not only did I have the tools that would help me be successful on the course, but I had more knowledge , confidence and consistency than I had begun with. Learning how all different aspects of a wedge contribute to better individualized performance opened my eyes to the possibilities for my game. Your wedge play can make or break your game. Have the courage to seek out the resources that will help you take the next step towards playing your best golf. You have the opportunity to walk away with more than just new clubs. You can leave with a short game plan . For more insight into a Wedge Fitting Experience, watch the video Titleist Club Fitting Experience: Wedge Focushttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/5-keys-for-royal-portrushTue, 15 Jul 2025 16:35:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:2403b88b-1f7d-4fd9-955e-24d70709655dZachBrinkleyWedge Play at The Open Championship: 5 Keys for Royal Portrush Wedge play at The Open Championship often determines who lifts the Claret Jug—and who goes home wondering what went wrong. With the 2025 Open returning to the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland, success will hinge on short-game precision in firm, windy, and unpredictable conditions. Here are 5 critical wedge play tips to win on links turf—and why Vokey wedges are built for the job: 1. Fresh Grooves for Maximum Spin Spin is king on the firm, fast greens of Royal Portrush. Wedges with worn grooves struggle to grip the ball, leading to inconsistent spin and rollout. Players who want to control their distance—especially when playing into the wind or to tight pins—need fresh grooves. That’s where Vokey wedges shine. Vokey’s precision Spin Milled wedges mean consistent groove patterns–engineered to deliver maximum spin on every shot, no matter the conditions. 2. Control Trajectory in the Wind Wedge play on links courses isn’t just about distance—it’s about trajectory control. At Royal Portrush, swirling winds demand that players flight their wedges low, take spin off when needed, and work the ball creatively in gusty crosswinds. Vokey’s progressive center of gravity technology makes it easier to control launch and spin, helping players shape shots and stick them close even when the wind picks up. 3. Precise Contact on Tight Turf The turf at Royal Portrush is tight, firm, and unforgiving. That means wedge play requires exact ball-first contact—thin it, and the ball races past the green; chunk it, and you're short and in trouble. Vokey’s tour-inspired grinds are specifically designed to handle firm turf and tight lies. Whether you're playing a nipped spinner or a low-checking pitch, Bob Vokey’s craftsmanship helps you stay confident over the ball. 4. Creativity and Versatility Around the Green On a links course, standard wedge shots won’t always work. You might need to bump-and-run from 40 yards, play a low check shot under the wind, or even putt from the fringe. A Vokey wedge’s flight lines are crafted for versatility and allow for shotmaking creativity. Open the face for a high lob or hood it for a running chip—the design responds to your imagination. 5. Matching Bounce to Conditions The best wedges for Royal Portrush have the right bounce for firm ground. Too much bounce and the club skids; too little and it digs. With uneven lies and pot bunkers lurking, wedge setup becomes crucial. Vokey’s WedgeWorks offers custom grind and bounce options that let players tailor their wedges to the turf and conditions—giving them an edge when the pressure is on. The Key to winning The Open? Better Wedge Play. The Open Championship rewards smart, strategic golf—and nowhere is that more important than in the short game. If you want to master wedge play at The Open Championship, the equipment you choose matters. Vokey wedges combine elite craftsmanship, versatile design, and tour-level performance—making them the ultimate tool for players who want to attack pins, control spin, and handle links courses with confidence. Shop Vokey wedges and elevate your wedge game in any condition.Tourhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/wedge-play-us-open-at-oakmontMon, 09 Jun 2025 19:12:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:3c3bbd13-f460-4bd8-b4c0-95620d4bc3e3AshleyBlackIt’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 .InstructionWedgeWorksTourSM10https://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/pga-championship-the-green-mileTue, 13 May 2025 21:54:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:6011e2cf-f2d1-40c1-ad5d-4633ef15cf97AshleyBlackIt’s the second major of the year. There’s something special in the air at Quail Hollow Club. Nestled in Charlotte, North Carolina, this iconic golf course sets the stage for one of the most thrilling tests in golf—the PGA Championship. Known for its pristine conditions and championship pedigree, Quail Hollow transforms into a true battleground when it hosts a major. With a course layout that stretches over 7,600 yards, players are pushed to their limits from the first tee to the final putt. But what really sets this course apart is its unforgettable finishing stretch—The Green Mile. What is The Green Mile? When it comes to closing holes on the PGA Tour, The Green Mile at Quail Hollow is in a league of its own. Comprising holes 16, 17, and 18, this trio of monsters challenges even the best players in the world with a blend of length, precision, and nerve. As rain early in the week softened fairways, the course will play longer than expected. Still, thanks to SubAir systems, the greens remain firm and lightning fast—perfect for drama. For a TOUR Player, The Green Mile can make or break your PGA Championship run—so, how do they approach these final 3 holes? Hole 16 – 529 Yards, Par 4 This long par 4 requires power off the tee and precision on the approach. While the tee shot is downhill, the fairway tightens near the landing zone, guarded by bunkers on the right and trees to the left. The second shot is where things get dicey: players must carry water short and left while trying to hold a green that slopes back to front. Most will aim safely for the middle or right side, playing for par and hoping not to give away their round here. Pro Tip from the Pros: A driver is key on this hole—getting a good fairway position is make-or-break for setting up a playable second shot. Hole 17 – 223 Yards, Par 3 Arguably one of the most nerve-wracking tee shots in golf, the 17th plays entirely over water. Wind swirling off the nearby lake makes club selection a guessing game. The narrow green offers little room for error—short and left are wet, long or right leaves a tough up-and-down on a slick surface. Most players will bail right or aim for the center of the green, knowing that even a par here can feel like a birdie. Pro Tip from the Pros: Aim for the middle—this is a “hit it solid and stay dry” kind of hole. Hole 18 – 494 Yards, Par 4 The final hole demands a perfect drive. A creek hugs the left side of the fairway and pinches the landing zone on this slight dogleg. A right-handed player will often favor a fade to keep the ball in play. The uphill second shot to a narrow, sloping green is no picnic either. A false front will punish anything short, and the green's shape means positioning is everything. Players who find the green in regulation will breathe a sigh of relief—any chip or long putt here is treacherous. Pro Tip from the Pros: A strong drive sets everything up—fairway first, then players plan their approach carefully to avoid a tricky chip or long putt. Why are fresh grooves important at Quail Hollow? Getting to the green is a feat in The Green Mile, and the short game is just as treacherous. Firm greens make it harder to stop the ball quickly, so players need to control spin and launch angle with their wedges. Wet rough and deep, packed bunkers make short shots tougher, so clean contact and accurate aim are key. With fresh grooves, Vokey wedges give players the spin they want, the control they crave, and the performance they need to hold up the Wanamaker trophy. A Championship Course Built for Drama With rain softening the course and fast greens ensuring no shot is easy, Quail Hollow is poised to deliver a spectacular show for fans and a brutal challenge for the field of 156 players. Whether it’s the test of skill, strategy, or sheer willpower, The Green Mile proves once again why it’s one of the most feared and respected finishing stretches in professional golf. For players and fans, Quail Hollow at the PGA Championship is more than just a course—it's where legends are tested, and champions are made.Tourhttps://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/cleaning-your-groovesTue, 06 May 2025 18:45:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:be013c02-24f9-4c00-adfe-f20fdced2624AshleyBlackYou already know how the right swing and stance makes an impact on your golf game—but there's one small detail that makes a big difference: your grooves. Those tiny lines on your wedges are designed specifically to grip the ball and create spin, especially around the green. Over time, dirt, grass, and sand get packed into the grooves, and that buildup can affect your short game. Grooves get dirty every time you hit off the turf, out of a bunker, or even just practice at the range. Even a quick round of 9 holes can leave them packed with debris. When your grooves are dirty, they can’t grip the ball the way they’re supposed to. That means less spin, less control, and more missed opportunities around the green. Clean grooves are important–but what is the best way to clean your grooves? Luckily, cleaning your grooves is simple, and you don’t need any fancy gear. Here’s how to keep them fresh: Use a groove brush to scrub the face of the club and get into the grooves. Soak the clubhead in warm, soapy water for a few minutes if the grime is really stuck on. Dry thoroughly with a towel to keep the club looking good. Clean after each round to avoid buildup and keep your grooves performing their best. Of course, depending on how often you practice or play, some grooves can only be cleaned by being replaced with a new wedge. Fresh, clean grooves give your short game a serious edge. Whether you're trying to stick a wedge close on a tight pin or spin a chip shot to stop on a dime, clean grooves give you the edge you need. You’ll notice better spin control, more consistency, and ultimately, lower scores. Taking care of your grooves might seem like a small thing, but it adds up to lower scores on the course.InstructionSM10https://www.vokey.com/blog/b/vokey-blog/posts/sm10-at-augustaWed, 09 Apr 2025 20:17:00 GMT685d5fa8-3b92-4f0a-9b0c-dc9ac18decf0:030ce448-08e6-4ffb-afc4-9c5571d2302eAshleyBlackThe first major of 2025 has arrived, and players are getting their Vokey setups dialed to take on Augusta National. Players experience a variety of unique playing surfaces at The Masters, including tight-cut Bermuda grass, granulated quartz sand and perfectly-placed pine straw just outside of the second cut. With these course conditions—which vary from other setups on TOUR—do players ever switch up their wedges? Many of the Vokey Wedge players in the field, including Jordan Spieth, Ludvig Aberg, Cameron Young, Brian Harman and Russell Henley, will play with their standard setups. Alternatively, Justin Thomas, Ben An, Billy Horschel and Tom Kim, prefer to adjust their bag based on course conditions. For the players who are tailoring their grind setups based on conditions the question is posed, “How do I need to adjust my grinds and for which conditions?” The tightly mown turf conditions around the greens may encourage players to reduce bounce on their dominant short game wedge. For most that will be their lob wedge. Players wanting to make an adjustment for this condition will likely want to see the wedge sit closer to the ground when open, giving a sense of ease to create height around the elevated, dramatically sloped greens. The bunkers will also present their own challenges. Soft bunker conditions, may have players consider adding bounce or sole width on their primary bunker club. These adjustments will help the wedge glide through the softer sand allowing the player to escape the many well placed green-side bunkers around Augusta National. The questions posed by these unique and challenging conditions will be answered this weekend. For 21 consecutive years and counting, Vokey wedges have been the most played wedge on the PGA TOUR. The Masters gives the best short game players in the world a chance to show off their skills—and refined wedge setups—on one of the game’s most iconic and demanding stages.TourSM10