Vokey Design SM11 Wedges: Taking Care of Your Grooves

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By Zack R., Team Titleist Staff

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  • 4 Replies
  1. Team Titleist Staff

    Cleaning your grooves: The difference between a birdie and a bogey.

    You already know how the right swing and stance makes an impact on your golf game—but there's one small detail that makes a big difference: your grooves.

    Those tiny lines on your wedges are designed specifically to grip the ball and create spin, especially around the green. Over time, dirt, grass, and sand get packed into the grooves, and that buildup can affect your short game. Grooves get dirty every time you hit off the turf, out of a bunker, or even just practice at the range. Even a quick round of 9 holes can leave them packed with debris. When your grooves are dirty, they can’t grip the ball the way they’re supposed to. That means less spin, less control, and more missed opportunities around the green.

    Clean grooves are important–but what is the best way to clean your grooves? Luckily, cleaning your grooves is simple, and you don’t need any fancy gear. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

    • Use a groove brush to scrub the face of the club and get into the grooves.
    • Soak the clubhead in warm, soapy water for a few minutes if the grime is really stuck on.
    • Dry thoroughly with a towel to keep the club looking good.
    • Clean after each round to avoid buildup and keep your grooves performing their best.

    Of course, depending on how often you practice or play, some grooves can only be cleaned by being replaced with a new wedge. Fresh, clean grooves give your short game a serious edge. Whether you're trying to stick a wedge close on a tight pin or spin a chip shot to stop on a dime, clean grooves give you the edge you need. You’ll notice better spin control, more consistency, and ultimately, lower scores. Taking care of your grooves might seem like a small thing, but it adds up to lower scores on the course.

    What's Next?

    Let us know below what steps you take to make sure your grooves are clean!

  2. Todd T

    Todd T
    San Diego, CA

    Military
    Clean after every shot.
  3. Barry M

    Barry M
    Reno, NV

    I believe in clean grooves, and the best time to clean them is when the dirt is fresh. After each shot, my clubs do not go back in the bag unless the grooves are clean. The face of the club and it's interaction with the ball is the only way you can control the flight.
  4. Dale V

    Dale V
    Surprise AZ

    I have a brush attached to my bag on my golf cart and at the range, use to magnetized clip on brush on my belt loop. More importantly, a wet towel on my cart of bag, if walking, allows me to clean the face after each swing. No need to soak the clubs as they are cleaned as I go through the round. Also, don’t forget to give the grips a washing every few rounds. This is even more important for me as I do not use a glove so sweat and dirt can make them prematurely slick and affect grip pressure and swing. Another factor for proper spin is cleanliness of the ball. I find my shag bag balls get dirty and worn out and you can easily tell the difference in their lack of spin and check. Looking forward to fresh grooves soon with the SM11’s.
  5. Dino S

    Dino S
    Ohio

    Well said Dale. I agree a brush connected to the bag and a wet towel is critical to keeping the grooves clean between shots. I can't want to put the SM 11's in the bag this year.

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