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This Ben Hogan wedge possesses a unique design and an appealing price tag, but does it do the business out on the golf course?
The Ben Hogan Equalizer II wedge is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and classic design. As a company with a storied history in golf club manufacturing, Ben Hogan continues to bring back iconic clubs with modern performance, and the Equalizer II is no exception. But how does it fare out on the golf course. We gave it a go to find out in our Ben Hogan Equalizer II wedge review…
The Ben Hogan Equalizer II wedge is a standout option for golfers who value classic design, forged feel, and custom-fit versatility at an affordable price. Its unique weight distribution strategy and CNC milled face offer consistent performance, even if spin rates are not the absolute highest in its class. With custom options, sleek aesthetics, and a price tag that beats most on the market, it’s a brilliant choice for golfers looking to upgrade their short game without breaking the bank.
PROS
Classic, minimalist design
Superb feel
Excellent value for a forged wedge
CONS
Spin rates slightly lower than more premium priced options
Ben Hogan Equalizer II Wedge Review: First Impressions
Minimalist and clean design
Immediately the Equalizer II stood out to me with its clean, minimalist design. The classic Ben Hogan logo paired with the iconic “BH” script gives it what I would class as a timeless aesthetic. The matte face combined with a shiny heel and toe reflects a sharp, polished look that evokes confidence at address. Hogan’s decision to keep the back of the club simple, avoiding unnecessary graphics or flashy designs, only enhances its class for me.
Adding to the visual appeal is the black and red ferrule, which is a nod to classic club styling that many modern brands have drifted away from.
Behind the ball
In hand, I thought the club felt well-balanced, and behind the ball, it frames shots beautifully. It’s clear that aesthetics were carefully considered in its design, but the real story lies in its performance.
NCG Verdict
Forged precision
The Equalizer II wedge is forged, which immediately signals quality and feel. The forging process is designed to create a soft yet responsive touch, ideal for wedge play where precision matters most. Ben Hogan has invested in CNC milling technology for the face of the Equalizer II. This milling process ensures maximum spin by creating sharper, more consistent grooves. It’s the same level of precision seen in wedges from top brands like TaylorMade, designed to optimise spin rates and control.
U-Shaped grooves
One of the unique features of the Equalizer II is its U-shaped grooves. These grooves are engineered to increase friction at impact, producing higher spin rates and greater stopping power on the greens.
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Interesting weight distribution
Interestingly, Hogan has opted for a weight distribution strategy that contrasts with current industry trends. Rather than pushing weight toward the perimeter or toe, the Equalizer II features a notch around the back of the club, shifting mass toward the center of the face. The idea is to enhance launch control and consistency on shorter shots, an approach that, while unconventional, performed well for me in testing.
Versatility
I used the Equalizer II for a variety of different shot types, including low chips, high chips, bunker escapes, flop shots, and bump-and-runs. It really showed the club’s high versatility. Around the greens, the wedge was reliable, offering a solid feel at impact.
Spin rates
While its spin rates didn’t quite match the extremes of some high-end competitors, it remained competitive and, crucially, predictable. Although, I thought the real advantage was in its consistency. My shots seemed to fly with similar trajectories, making it easy for me to trust hitting into greens.
Different grinds
From bunkers, the club performed well, delivering enough loft and spin to control rollout. The Texas grind, one of two available options, excelled on firmer turf, providing just the right amount of bounce to glide smoothly under the ball. In contrast, the standard grind handled softer lies with ease, showcasing its adaptability.
Final Verdict
Classic design and unique approach
Overall, I think the Ben Hogan Equalizer II wedge is a strong contender in the market for those seeking a classic design and solid performance without breaking the bank. Its unique approach to weight distribution offers a refreshing take in a category dominated by more conventional designs. While it may not spin quite as aggressively as some of its premium counterparts, it makes up for it in feel, consistency, and affordability.
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For golfers looking to add a reliable, beautifully designed wedge to their bag, the Equalizer II is a worthy choice that punches well above its price tag.
