Cleveland Golf: Are 87% of Us Really Doing Our Short Game Wrong?
When it comes to shaking things up in the golf world, Cleveland Golf isn’t one to play it safe. They’ve been pretty vocal over the last seven years about how most of us are making our short game more complicated than it has to be. According to them, a whopping 87% of golfers struggle unnecessarily when it comes to the short game. But is there some truth to this bold statement?
Let’s break it down. The math originates from Cleveland’s introduction of the CBX series of wedges back in 2017. The stats suggest that if 84% of golfers are using cavity-back irons (the ones designed for forgiveness and ease of use), then it makes perfect sense that those same golfers should also be using cavity-back wedges instead of opting for traditional blade models. The reasoning? Cavity-back wedges are supposed to be more forgiving — especially for us mortals who might not hit the ball perfectly every single time.
(Fun fact: Cleveland has updated their percentage to 87%. So apparently, we’ve collectively lost a little ground since their original claim.)
But the big question on everyone’s mind is whether Cleveland could actually create a cavity-back wedge that delivers the goods while still being user-friendly. Spoiler alert: the answer turns out to be ‘yes,’ as shown in various tests over the years!
Now, let’s move on to their latest offering: the all-new Cleveland CBZ wedges. You might be wondering, “Are these just a rehash of the previous models?” Well, yes and no. While they might look similar to the old CBX wedges, Cleveland has pulled out all the stops in terms of materials and technology.
What’s New in the Cleveland CBZ Wedges?
Cleveland isn’t just making cosmetic changes; they’ve upgraded their materials. Say hello to Z-Alloy. This proprietary material is a game changer, invented by Cleveland’s team of metal wizards to outshine the traditional steel used in most wedges. Z-Alloy is marketed as being significantly softer and less dense than the 431 stainless steel typically used, which translates to better feel and performance.
Cleveland claims that these new CBZ wedges are 25% softer than the previous CBX models, making them a joy to hit. But don’t worry about durability; Z-Alloy is designed to be tough as nails. And bonus: it’s resistant to rust, which means your wedges can look fresh without the worry of unsightly corrosion.
Why Low Density Matters
One of the standout features of Z-Alloy is its low density, which allows designers to manage weight more effectively. This is where it gets fun. The lower density gives Cleveland’s designers a chance to redistribute mass to the perimeter of the club, enhancing forgiveness. Combine that with Cleveland’s ZipCore technology, and you’ve got a recipe for a wedge that feels great and performs just as well.
This new setup allows you to hit with more control and spin, something that’s essential for any golfer looking to improve their short game. Plus, the Gelback TPU insert has also been nearly doubled in size, which helps to absorb vibrations for a smoother feel.
Simplified Wedge Grinds
Let’s face it: choosing the right wedge grind can be as complex as rocket science. Cleveland tries to make this a little easier. Their game-improvement wedges come with straightforward grinds that make life easier for golfers at all levels. For instance, the 48-52 degree gap wedges have a standard V-shaped grind that’ll work wonders for your full shots.
As for sand wedges? They sport an S-shaped sole and 14 degrees of bounce, making it easier to navigate through sand or rough. And for those creative shots around the greens, the C-shaped lob wedges will let you get a bit more fancy with your shot-making.
Technology That Delivers
You don’t just get a pretty face with Cleveland’s CBZ wedges; they’re packed with innovative tech. Each wedge features loft-specific UltiZip grooves for extra spin, along with HydraZip to maintain performance even in wet conditions. Let’s not forget Cleveland’s signature Rotex face milling, which gives these wedges more bite than most mid-60s Motown hits!
Specs, Price, and Availability
Ready to check out the specs? The men’s CBZ lineup consists of traditional-faced wedges ranging from 44 to 60 degrees in two-degree increments. For left-handed players, there’s a selection from 50-60 degrees too.
On the women’s side, it’s slightly more limited, with traditional-faced models from 48 to 60 degrees available. But don’t fret — they’d still work great for those looking to enhance their short game.
Price point? The Cleveland CBZ wedges are retailing for $179.99, making them a solid choice for those looking for quality without breaking the bank.
Customization Options
Golfers love personalization, and Cleveland is hitting this nail on the head with their customization program. You can get unique paint fill, custom stamping, and even custom skin designs to truly make your wedges your own.
Final Thoughts
So, are 87% of us making our short games harder than they need to be? Cleveland seems to think so, and their innovations in short-game technology certainly lend some credibility to that claim. With the new CBZ wedges, they’ve delivered on both performance and forgiveness, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to tackle even the most challenging lies.
If you’re ready to take your game up a notch, mark your calendars for September 5, when the new Cleveland CBZ wedges hit stores. For more info and to keep up with the latest, don’t hesitate to check out the Cleveland Golf website.
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