2010 Buyer's Guide Wedges

New groove rules mean new innovations in wedge technology

By The Editors

Labels: Buyers Guide, Equipment, Wedges, Irons

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Golf Tips Legend

Our picks for new technologies, hot trends and equipment standouts.

Wedge technology hasn’t exactly been at the forefront of our minds in recent years. But, with this year’s changes enacted by the USGA that affect the grooves on both irons and wedges, we can’t help but wonder what new technologies will be designed to help golfers make the most of grooves that aren’t allowed to be as sharp as they used to be. Sure enough, in 2010, we’ve already seen some models that are designed to counteract the effects of the new groove rules, including milled, laser-cut grooves and even a replaceable face insert to ensure you have clean, sharp grooves as often as possible.

Check out what’s new in wedges in 2010 right here.


Adams Tom Watson Key Feature: Its conservative head shape is designed to optimize performance, versatility and forgiveness, while its aggressive box groove volume enhances spin and control. What We Like: It’s versatile and can play from any lie. The large clubface and classic teardrop shaping help along those lines, too. Who It’s For: Available in both Classic and Players grinds and in satin or chrome finish, it can benefit all golfers. Specs: Available in lofts of 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°, 64° and HL (high loft). adamsgolf.com \| $99 (set of 3)	Bobby Jones Black Nickel Key Feature: Its face is milled from Carpenter 440XH steel, which the company claims is harder and more durable than carbon steel or 17-4 stainless steel. What We Like: Ball- grabbing, milled, Diamond Pattern face texture is useful, and the club’s heavier weight helps you swing smoother. Who It’s For: Fans of renowned instructor Dave Pelz, who helped design the wedge. Specs: Comes in three lofts (52°, 56°, 60°) with steel shafts. bobbyjonesgolf.net\| $149	Bridgestone J38 Black Oxide Key Feature: Precision shaping that aims to replicate the finer hand-ground Tour- level wedges. The Variable Bounce Technology sole has less bounce on the heel and toe, so you can more easily open and close the face. What We Like: It looks awesome with the dark finish, and feels soft— thanks to a CNC-milled clubface that yields consistent distance control, plus extra spin on shorter shots. Who It’s For: Shotmakers. Specs: Available in lofts (52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°) with DG steel shafts. bridgestonegolf.com \| $119