When it comes to the short game, there is one name that has sat on top of the game for decades: Titleist Vokey.
We’ve seen plenty of “game-changers” come and go, but the release of a new Titleist Vokey line is always a landmark event. I recently went through a full fitting for the new Titleist Vokey SM11 wedges to see if the world’s most played wedge has actually found room for improvement.
Here is the breakdown of my experience, the tech under the hood, and whether these belong in your bag.
Rack Appeal
The first thing you notice about the Titleist Vokey SM11 is that it doesn’t try to be something it’s not. Titleist has kept the classic DNA that we have all grown to love. You aren’t going to see any radical shifts in shape here, and that’s a good thing. It’s a staple wedge with a look that inspires immediate confidence at address.
However, if you look closer, the subtle refinements are beautiful. My favourite detail is the new hosel ring – a sleek touch with “SM11” printed on it that lets you know you’re holding the latest craftsmanship without shouting about it.
Whether it’s the Tour Chrome, Jet Black, or the new Nickel finish, the shelf appeal remains the gold standard.
Technology
While the look is classic, the engineering has seen some clever “hidden” upgrades:
Identical CG Across Grinds: In previous generations, the Center of Gravity (CG) could shift slightly depending on which grind you chose. For the SM11, Vokey engineers have synchronized the CG for every grind within a specific loft. This means if you switch from an S-grind to an M-grind, your flight and feel remain consistent.
Progressive CG Placement: The CG is positioned specifically for the job at hand. In the lower lofts (46°-52°), the CG is lower to transition smoothly from your iron set. In the higher lofts (58°-60°), it moves higher and further forward to keep the ball flight down and the face square.
New Spin System: The “Spin Milled” grooves now feature 5% more volume to channel away moisture and debris. This is paired with a new “Angled Face Texture” – a razor-like surface between the grooves designed to increase friction on those delicate, short-sided shots.
Performance: Flight and Feedback
During my fitting, the most noticeable change wasn’t necessarily the maximum spin, (Vokey’s have always spun well) but the flight consistency.
Because of the refined CG positioning for each loft, I found the ball flight to be noticeably lower and more consistent than the SM10. On full shots with the 54° and 58°, the ball didn’t balloon; it stayed on a penetrating line with incredible stopping power.
In terms of feel, if you’ve played Vokeys before, you’ll feel right at home. Nothing has drastically changed here for me; it remains a soft, crisp feel that provides excellent feedback. You know exactly where you’ve struck it on the face, which is vital for distance control.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Predictable Flight: The new CG placement delivers a flatter, more controlled trajectory that is easier to judge in the wind.
Timeless Aesthetics: Keeps the classic look that golfers trust, with subtle, premium updates.
Unmatched Fitting Options: With 27 loft/bounce/grind combinations, there is a perfect setup for every swing type.
Durability: The heat-treated grooves continue to lead the industry in maintaining spin over time.
Cons
Price Point: There has been a price increase from the SM10, making these a significant investment.
Diminishing Returns: If you are currently gaming fresh SM10s, the performance gap is subtle rather than revolutionary.
The Summary
The Titleist Vokey SM11 is an exercise in perfectionism. It isn’t a total reinvention of the wedge, but it doesn’t need to be. The improved flight consistency and the synchronization of CG across the grinds make it the most “honest” wedge Vokey has ever produced.
The Verdict: If you are a Titleist enthusiast or someone due for a wedge refresh, the SM11 is a no-brainer. However, with the price hike, you’ll want to make sure you get a proper fitting to maximise the performance benefits. Unless you are dialling in those specific launch windows, you might find the price hard to swallow compared to some of the more affordable “value” wedges on the market. But for those who want the best-looking, most consistent tool in the short game, the king has kept his crown.
Specs
Grinds: T, S, M, D, K, F
Lofts: 44º, 46º, 48º, 50º, 52º, 54º, 56º, 58º, 60º
Finishes: Tour Chrome, Nickel, Jet Black and Raw