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TSN Senior Reporter

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What are the three keys to great wedge play? According to wedge guru and Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member Bob Vokey, it’s distance and trajectory control, maximum spin and shot versatility.

Vokey says his new line of SM9 wedges provide the “ultimate in optionality” in each of the three key areas.

“It sounds simple but having the correct wedge and knowing when to use it has a direct impact on scoring performance,” said Vokey in a press release. “The most important thing for golfers at every level is to know when and where to use the variety of wedges in their bag. That can be achieved by being properly fit based on swing and style of play and understanding the roles for each.”

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The new SM9 line is available in six grind options and a total of 23 different models ranging in lofts from 46 degrees to 62 degrees. That allows for proper fitting for everyone from novice players to those on the PGA Tour. Vokey Design wedges have been the most played wedge on the PGA Tour every year since 2004.

According to Vokey, the wedges in your bag should be tailored to how you swing and where you play most often.

“It is important to fit your wedges to your swing type, style of play and course conditions,” Vokey stated. “That selection process should begin by determining the proper grind for the shots you hit most. The correct grind provides the best turf interaction, contact and shot performance.”

The new SM9 line offers a forward centre of gravity progression with it moving higher on the face as the wedges increase in loft. This leads to better distance and trajectory control as well as adding to stability.

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There is also a wide variety of grind options meaning no matter whether a player is a sweeper or a digger, and regardless of whether he or she plays on firm, neutral or soft course conditions, there is a grind available.

The SM9 line has spin-milled grooves for spin control as well as micro grooves that are cut in between the main grooves that maximizes spin on partial shots.

For golfers unsure of just which wedge they should be using, the Vokey Wedge Selector tool on Vokey.com helps select the proper loft, bounce and grind options for their swing and course conditions. Vokey recommends that golfers visit their local Titleist fitter to confirm the results.

The new line is available in three looks: a tour chrome, brushed steel or jet black. It will be available in golf shops starting March 11, with a suggested price of $239.