Ping s159: Everything you need to know
What’s the new tech? How many new models are there? And how much do they cost? Hannah Holden brings you the low down on the Ping s159 wedges
Ping’s s159 wedges have already made their mark on tour, so what’s new, and how can you pick which wedges you should be gaming?
Ping s159: The Technology
The Ping s159 wedges are engineered to offer more spin and control into and around the greens, but that isn’t the only new technology.
The 8620 carbon steel head is cast to an eye-pleasing shape with a straighter lead edge, a design feature especially beneficial on full shots. The compact head features an improved hosel transition with constant offset that blends seamlessly into the new Blueprint S and T irons.
Wheel-cut grooves are precision milled for consistency. Higher lofted wedges have more tightly spaced MicroMax grooves, while lower lofted wedges are milled for greater control on full shots.
Ping are big on wet-to-dry spin comparisons. After all, it is very rare a shot doesn’t encounter some amount of moisture when out on the golf course. These are designed to keep spin high even when moisture gets between the ball and the club face.
An elastomer insert behind the club face contributes to a soft more responsive feel.
Grind Options
There are twenty-five loft/grind combinations across the Ping s159 wedge family, including two brand-new Ping grinds.
The grind refers to the shaping of the sole of the club. Different amounts of material can be removed from the sole, heel and toe of the club to change how the leading edge sits and how it reacts through impact.
New “H” or Half-Moon Grind:
A shot-saving option for players with steeper angles of attack who like to manipulate the handle and play with versatility. It performs best in softer conditions. Available in 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
New “B” Grind:
For a shallow angle of attack and neutral face delivery. Low-bounce design sits low on the turf on square-face shots, providing forgiveness via the sole width to deliver score-lowering performance in firmer conditions. Available in 58°, 60°
“T” Grind:
The most versatile option allows players to manipulate the face for shot-making precision around the greens. Ideal for medium to firm turf conditions, includes a 62-degree option at the request of our tour pros for more versatility. Available in 58°, 60°, 62° (new)
“W” Grind:
Maximum forgiveness through the turf. Best fits a steep angle of attack who might also have a lot of handle lean and a player who prefers the look of a specialty wedge but relies on a little more forgiveness in their scoring clubs. Available in 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
“E” or Eye2 Grind: Continues to be the ultimate bunker club, carrying on a 40-year tradition of helping golfers get up and down from the sand. It plays with relatively low bounce on square or slightly open face shots. Available in 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
“S” Grind:
Fits a wide variety of conditions and techniques. Designed with ample bounce in the mid-section to play full shots and provides greenside versatility due to heel/trail edge relief. New 48-degree option helps in gapping. Available in 46°, 48° (new), 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
How To Pick The Right Wedge
Choosing the right wedge can be confusing when there are so many loft and grind options available.
Ping have looked to solve this problem by introducing their new WebFit Wedge app.
Answer a few simple questions about your golf game and the courses you most frequently play at, and you will be recommended the two grinds that are most likely to suit your game.
You can then see a side-by-side comparison of these two options to help you pick which wedge you ultimately want to go with.
If you are struggling with what lofts to choose, you can input your pitching wedge carry distance for personalised advice.
The Details
Available: Now
RRP: £175 (steel) £185 (graphite)
Finishes: Hydropearl 2.0 Chrome or Midnight
Stock Shafts: Ping Z-Z115 wedge; Ping Alta CB Black (SR, R, S)
Optional Stock Shafts: Ping AWT 2.0 (R, S, X), Dynamic Gold Mid 100 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold Mid 115 (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold (S300, X100),Dynamic Gold 105 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold 120 (S300, X100), KBS Tour (R, S, X), Nippon N.S. Pro Modus3 105 (R, S, X), Elevate MPH 95 (R, S), UST Recoil Dart 65 (A), 75 (R, S), ALTA Quick (35, 45)
Stock Grip: PING 360 Dyla-Wedge Lite grip
More information: Ping Website
Hannah Holden
Hannah Holden is the Equipment and Instruction Editor here at National Club Golfer. If you’re looking to improve your game, by changing your golf swing or upgrading your golf equipment she’ll have the answers.
As well as writing lots of features and reviews you can find her on our YouTube channel giving you insights on the latest rules, clubs and tips to improve your golf game.
Hannah is a member at Alwoodley golf club. You will either find her here or driving up and down the country playing in a variety of elite amateur events.