The new Titleist Vokey SM8 wedges are hardly a secret, we’ve seen them floating around on social media for weeks, but now we can finally talk about them! (That’s how embargoes work, see?) So what’s new? Check out my initial thoughts below…
Setting the standard. In their first week on the European Tour, Vokey Design #SM8 wedges are #️⃣1️⃣ in play at the #ADGolfChamps. #InVokeWeTrust pic.twitter.com/6kYrnYdGBJ
— Titleist Europe (@TitleistEurope) January 17, 2020
Vokey SM8: First impressions
It’s OK, I’m drooling too. These are, without any hint of doubt, the best looking Vokey wedges to date.
They just have a really well defined, modern, clean look compared to the SM7 wedges and still sit great behind the ball.
In the first week available on the PGA Tour more than 100 SM8 wedges were immediately put in play. I’d say that is testament to the quality and performance of the new design.
Vokey SM8: The technology
Heads up, we’re about to get really nerdy, so buckle in.
Vokey wedges align the centre of gravity with the impact zone. This is higher in the face for a more lofted wedge and, you guessed it, lower in the face for lower-lofted clubs. Titleist have taken this to the next step in the SM8 wedges by moving the centre of gravity forward off the club.
Confusing, I know, but hear me out.
By lengthening the hosel, weight is added in the heel which is counterbalanced by a tungsten weight low in the toe. This keeps the centre of gravity at the same point vertically on the face but brings it horizontally out in front of the club face.
Still with me? This new centre of gravity can’t be seen, but the difference can be seen and felt in the consistency of the ball flight.
All this combined with grooves cut to the edges of the legal limit and combined with micro-grooves for maximum spin on all shots.
There are actually 23 different loft and grind options in the Vokey range so you can all be custom fit for perfection. Vokey recommends varying bounce across your wedge setup so you can play on firm and soft conditions without changing technique.
From first testing it was so clear that the ball flight is more stable. It flies lower in the window you would want it but also it was remarkably easy to square the face up and get the ball launching on target.
Right that’s all for now. I’ve been fitted for the SM8 wedges and they’re currently in the back of a van winging their way to NCG HQ as I type, so keep an eye on our YouTube channel for a full review coming soon…
Details
Available: March 6, 2020
RRP: £160
Finishes: Tour Chrome, Brush Steel, Jet Black, Raw
More information: Titleist website
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Hannah Holden
