Titleist Vokey SM6 Wedge

The SM6 runs from 46 to 62 degrees. Some lofts like 54, 56, 58, and 60 are offered in more than one grind, so you'll see them listed twice. That lets you match the sole to your swing instead of taking whatever comes with the loft you need.

Players who open the face on short shots and play firmer conditions. The heel-relieved sole keeps the leading edge down when you lay the club open, which is where a lot of golfers thin or chunk the flop shot. If you play soft turf and swing with a square face, a wider grind like the M or F will suit you better.

Titleist moved the center of gravity to a different spot depending on the loft. Lower-lofted wedges carry the weight back for a higher, more forgiving flight on full swings. Higher-lofted wedges push it forward so the ball comes out lower and more controlled. The result is that a 46 and a 60 feel tuned to their job rather than identical.

If your SM6 grooves are worn down and losing spin, a fresh wedge of any recent generation will grab better. But the SM6 is still a solid, playable wedge. The changes in the models that followed are refinements to grind shapes and bounce options, not a night-and-day performance jump. Replace it when the grooves go, not because it's a 2016 club.

The Tour Grind runs on the lower-bounce side by design, which is why it works on firm turf and open-faced shots. If you tend to hit it fat, take a steep divot, or play soft ground, you'll want more bounce or a fuller sole grind. Match the bounce to your angle of attack and the turf you play most.