Sometimes revolutionary can be familiar too. In recent years, few have put as much emphasis and effort into improving the balance and performance of their wedges than Cleveland Golf. To many on the THP community and well beyond, the RTX4 was the most complete wedge out there, so a refresh would have been more than acceptable.
But that isn’t what Cleveland Golf does.
If you have seen the teasers that the company put up the past week, then you’ve gotten a taste of what’s coming, and believe me, this is impressive. You know what though? When you are willing to take something that’s already great all the way down to its core, literally, then it had better be.
This is the RTX ZipCore.
Taking it to the Core
Cleveland themselves are describing the new RTX ZipCore as “radically new and ultra-familiar”, essentially new, yet classic. From the images of the back of the club, we all see a shape that comes with that familiarity which Cleveland is referring, albeit, with a little more modern aesthetic in how the text is placed on the club and a revamp of the loft font. However, the aesthetics aren’t the story here, Cleveland knows they had a wedge in the RTX4 that was fantastic in that area, but to find improvements they decided to look for an inside to out solution. This meant the change they sought was at the core, and I mean that legitimately.
ZipCore
While not the only story in this release, being the namesake of the new wedge means it definitely gets lead billing. If you saw the teasers, then you know there has clearly been some internal work done on the new RTX wedges, and that is exactly at the core of ZipCore.
What you were seeing there, is a low-density core which has allowed Cleveland to shift the center of gravity even more than they have in the past. Yes, they have gone hard on marketing the CG change before, and they acknowledge that, but they also realize that there was more they could do. To be able to shift both the balance and the shape how they wanted, it was necessary to find a way to alter the core balance, so using a proprietary material which Cleveland only explains as being “extremely lightweight, yet strong” they carved out an internal spoon shaped section from the hosel into the heel and used this compound to fill it.
What this all ends up meaning is better balance, higher moment of inertia, more spin, more control, and more shots likely to strike the sweet spot and thus yield better results. Also, for those of you wondering, Cleveland promised that this new ZipCore and the material they’re using won’t sacrifice or compromise the feel either, which will most definitely be interesting to test out because this is one of the most outside the box design features we have ever seen in wedges.
Beyond the Core
Clearly you can see why so much attention is being given to the ZipCore design feature, but if you know Cleveland Golf, then you know they aren’t going to stop there. Rounding out the evolution of the RTX is the focus on improving spin and durability.
For spin, it’s no surprise that you need to look to the face of things. Cleveland, who have long ridden the wave of ROTEX, have gone back to the design board in a big way. More spin? How about more grooves? How about better grooves? How about UltiZip?
Yes, the name is, well, unique. But, based on what Cleveland is touting, it might not be all that hard to get down with. These grooves have the sharpest edge radius ever, and the deepest, meaning more spin and more control in all conditions. The depth funnels away the debris more efficiently, but the key, according to Cleveland, is that they have also moved the grooves closer together, which allowed them to add two more grooves as well. Why is that important? More grooves mean more of the ball contacting them with each shot, and that means more bite. For the fans of hard numbers, all this comes out to grooves that Cleveland says are 11% sharper, 7.3% deeper, 7.4% closer, and 7.2% more groove contact at impact.
Grooves are great, but grooves that are more durable are even better. The last thing Cleveland has addressed with the RTX ZipCore was just that, durability. How though? The answer they have arrived at is utilizing heat treatment of each and every wedge. By heating the 8620-carbon steel wedge they’ve found the material is altered, in a good way, removing impurities, aligning the grain, and just generating an all around more durable wedge.
Rounding it all out, Cleveland is plugging the all new Tour Issue Dynamic Gold Spinner wedges shaft and finishing it with a Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360, both impressive components. The RTX ZipCore will be available in lofts from 46° to 62° with three specific grind options, Low (C-Grind), Mid (V-Sole), and Full. Additionally, it’s worth noting that upon the initial release the classic Cleveland satin will be the only finish available, but Black Satin and Raw finishes are coming later this year.
The Details
Available: 8/14/20
Price: $149.99
Finish: Tour Satin (Black Satin and Raw later)
Lofts: 46°-62°
Grinds: Low (56°-62°), Mid (46°-60°), Full (54°-60°)
Spent some time with the wedges this morning trying to decide if I want the 50 degree to replace the gap wedge for my set. I love just about everything about it, and might make the switch.
im really dying to try these!!! loved the rtx4 in every way. If the raw version was out id definitely buy already
im gonna have about a $600 credit at PGA store since I picked up 3 Bettinardi hlx 3.0 wedges but dont really care for them. really debating between grabbing the zipcore or vokey sm8 since they have the raw in stock
or do I wait another month to get the raw zipcores…….
[QUOTE=”JB, post: 9505395, member: 3″]
Spent some time with the wedges this morning trying to decide if I want the 50 degree to replace the gap wedge for my set. I love just about everything about it, and might make the switch.
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that’s something I’ve been going back and forth on myself. I currently have a CBX in that spot.
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9505363, member: 1579″]
Ok, I need a 48.
And for review purposes it’s necessary, right? Right? Someone back me on this with my wife. :ROFLMAO:
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Sure, I will even provide an opinion letter, if that would help with the good doctor. 😀
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Wedges and Donuts = FUN.
These two might have gender off my SM8 today with the +1 73 from 6,950 I just finished playing. Couldn’t hit a green hardly, but the 54/62 made for a LOT of tap in pars.
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9505427, member: 1579″]
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Wedges and Donuts = FUN.
These two might have gender off my SM8 today with the +1 73 from 6,950 I just finished playing. Couldn’t hit a green hardly, but the 54/62 made for a LOT of tap in pars.
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I have now committed to the 52 (bent to 51), 56 mid and 62. With a 46 degree pw, this provides consistent gapping all the way to 56. Then, the 56 and 62 give me oodles of versatility from 95 yards and in, as well as greenside bunkers and delicate play around the greens.
Really liking my 56, 62 setup. Tbh, not seeing a whole lot of difference between these and my RTX4’s, but the past few rounds have been mostly a lot of chipping, not many full wedge swings. Maybe I’ll see the increased spin once I start taking bigger cuts at the ball.
[QUOTE=”Kenomikes, post: 9503009, member: 42216″]
I could see myself trying this in the *52, should be more forgiving on full shots than a Vokey, right?
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For me it’s way easier to hit than Vokey, or maybe just a bit more forgiving.
[QUOTE=”TMAdidas, post: 9507832, member: 13905″]
Really liking my 56, 62 setup. Tbh, not seeing a whole lot of difference between these and my RTX4’s, but the past few rounds have been mostly a lot of chipping, not many full wedge swings. Maybe I’ll see the increased spin once I start taking bigger cuts at the ball.
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For me it’s the half swing stuff that really stood out. Had to start playing them a bit longer because I was spinnin em back or stopping. Different swings will see different results.
[QUOTE=”TMAdidas, post: 9507832, member: 13905″]
Really liking my 56, 62 setup. Tbh, not seeing a whole lot of difference between these and my RTX4’s, but the past few rounds have been mostly a lot of chipping, not many full wedge swings. Maybe I’ll see the increased spin once I start taking bigger cuts at the ball.
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The main area the difference will be seen is in non ideal lies. The grooves funnel grass/water/debris unlike a throng else out there IME…..and I’ve played a few wedges :ROFLMAO:
Easily my favorite club in the bag right now (and for the last month). So much darn confidence and you might as well put the ball on the green if I’m sitting 95-105. I really think I need to get the 58* – I’m nervous out of the bunkers with the V sole but I bet it’s all in my head
[QUOTE=”Molten, post: 9508153, member: 22040″]
Easily my favorite club in the bag right now (and for the last month). So much darn confidence and you might as well put the ball on the green if I’m sitting 95-105. I really think I need to get the 58* – I’m nervous out of the bunkers with the V sole but I bet it’s all in my head
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I am using the 56 standard grind out of green side bunkers and it has been great.
[QUOTE=”Tenputt, post: 9508176, member: 42964″]
I am using the 56 standard grind out of green side bunkers and it has been great.
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I’ve got to imagine it’s in my head and based only on what I’ve gotten used to seeing when I look down. In fact I’m sure of it.
[QUOTE=”Tenputt, post: 9508176, member: 42964″]
I am using the 56 standard grind out of green side bunkers and it has been great.
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yeah, the 56 is great…I can’t decide if I want a 58 or 60 now…the 54 would go if grab one of the 2…
I hate this 54 adjusted to 52, it is gone as of today.
I have become pretty obsessed with the high lofted ZipCore wedges. Using the 62 degree and messing around with a 60 And 58 degree as well.
Need to figure out which way I’m going but liking all of the options.
Adding a 48 to the bag soon.
Well the 60 degree low continues to impress. 3 bunker shots yesterday lipped the hole and left easy putts. For a guy that really struggled with bunker play previously I’m extremely happy with ZipCore.
[QUOTE=”Molten, post: 9508178, member: 22040″]
I’ve got to imagine it’s in my head and based only on what I’ve gotten used to seeing when I look down. In fact I’m sure of it.
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I have been using my 60 Mid out of bunkers for a couple rounds now and it’s been impressive. A ton of spin, and I am a below average bunker player. 5 stars, would recommend.
The 60 degree just continues to shine. I am 3 rounds in and goodness gracious, it is so versatile. I did not imagine I would be this comfortable this quick.
The 48 is ordered. I’m eager to work with it since I’m working hard to not full swing my SW anymore, Max versatility will be demanded of the GW
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9515586, member: 1579″]
The 48 is ordered. I’m eager to work with it since I’m working hard to not full swing my SW anymore, Max versatility will be demanded of the GW
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That moved from ponder to order QUICK
[QUOTE=”Molten, post: 9515628, member: 22040″]
That moved from ponder to order QUICK
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Don’t like having a mis matched 48 in the bag. I think [USER=2320]@Canadan[/USER] and his OCD is rubbing off on me
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9515586, member: 1579″]
The 48 is ordered. I’m eager to work with it since I’m working hard to not full swing my SW anymore, Max versatility will be demanded of the GW
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did you go with the stock spinner shaft? I think I would want something different with that loft.
[QUOTE=”NVGOLFER80, post: 9515819, member: 53139″]
did you go with the stock spinner shaft? I think I would want something different with that loft.
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I’m going to put my Onyx TI’s from the RTX4’s into these when the 48 comes in
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9515822, member: 1579″]
I’m going to put my Onyx TI’s from the RTX4’s into these when the 48 comes in
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raw?
[QUOTE=”NVGOLFER80, post: 9515825, member: 53139″]
raw?
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Not available to order yet through my guy, plus my 54/62 aren’t raw so I guess boring old satin it is this season :ROFLMAO:
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9515808, member: 1579″]
Don’t like having a mis matched 48 in the bag. I think [USER=2320]@Canadan[/USER] and his OCD is rubbing off on me
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you’re welcome.
[QUOTE=”Canadan, post: 9516392, member: 2320″]
you’re welcome.
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Am I though? :ROFLMAO:
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9516412, member: 1579″]
Am I though? :ROFLMAO:
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always.
New things are fun.
Played a little bit with [USER=48932]@BigDill[/USER] ZipCores today. Pretty sure I will be ordering. Having recent experience with SM8 and MG2 these feel superb. The spin on them is unreal! The P770 GW is 51deg. I’ll play with that one a little before deciding to keep it or order a ZipCore GW
The number of birdies I’ve had coming off an approach with the zipcore wedges is pretty astonishing. One yesterday and one today – both were 100-105 to the pin where I took it a yard or two past and spun it back to pin high and tight. These may just be my favorite wedges.
I have had 4 rounds with the ZipCore and I can honestly say they are the best wedges I have ever played. I like to hit a lot of near full wedge shots and the grind of these wedges are so nice in getting through whatever lie condition I find myself in.
But what stands out most to me is how much spin these clubs generate. I am hopping and stopping from 60+ yards away. Flop and sand shots are much easier than ever before with the 60/Mid. I am in love with the ZipCores.
Even though I have Cobra MIMs on the way, these are still on the back of my mind. Especially if the rumored grind program with the raw is a thing.
And done! 56 and 60 headed my way
50 and 58 are headed this way. Mid in both. The turf interaction and performance are just too good to ignore.
I’m still waiting to experience this. The 54 I ordered showed up while I was gone, but it was a 56 :confused:. Yesterday I went to just buy one, but I seriously couldn’t find a 54 anywhere. 3 places and only saw 1, in a demo bin. I don’t really want to sell my rtx4s until I actually try one on course, but dang, it’s taking a little while. I just want to get zippy!
I love throwing low flight zippy chips around the green with the 60 low bounce. I’m not one to chip much with the 60 unless there was a clear need over the 54. That has changed. I pull it out all the time now.
Little flair to the wedges…
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[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9521456, member: 1579″]
Little flair to the wedges…
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Those look really nice.
Hi there!!
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Had a fantastic outing with the ZipCore today. The more I play it the more I get it dialed in. Not sure if I will upgrade the 50* and 58* RTX4 to ZipCore as I still like those quite a bit and have been playing them to great effect alongside the 54* Mid ZipCore, but the temptation is there.
I finally got around to putting a set of Recoil Wedge Proto shafts in my ZipCore wedges (52/56/60) and although I am only one round in, I am real excited about what I have seen and felt so far. I was a bit concerned that I would lose a bit of spin by taking out the DG Spinner shafts, but that was not the case so far. The ball still has an unbelievable amount of backspin on mid to full swing shots, and now I have a bit more feel on partial ones. Plus, the weight of the Wedge Protos seem to blend a bit better with my 110 Proto iron shafts. I really liked the Spinner shafts, but I really REALLY like the Wedge Protos. They still have a nice headweight feel, but seem like a more natural progression from my irons with respect to swing feel.
Yooooooooooooooooo! Now it’s time reshaft to match the 54/62!
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Was able to get the 54 FULL in my hand today….man what a great looking wedge!!!
[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9546250, member: 1579″]
Yooooooooooooooooo! Now it’s time reshaft to match the 54/62!
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Finally reshafted this one with the Onyx DG TI S400 extending it +1/4 and checking the loft and lie. Was actually 51* on the Mitchell which explains a lot of what I’d seen so far, easy fix and we are course bound this morning!
[QUOTE=”2BFAST, post: 9547659, member: 41885″]
Was able to get the 54 FULL in my hand today….man what a great looking wedge!!!
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Riiiiiight? They’ve grown on me, a lot.
Still loving the ZipCore wedges. Flew the fairway leaving a tree and bunker in my way to a tight pin location. Took out the 62° and right over both and stopped on a dime to oar the hole.
These wedges just perform and have so much bite in them. #stoppingpower
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[QUOTE=”Jman, post: 9562347, member: 1579″]
Riiiiiight? They’ve grown on me, a lot.
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The only thing thats holding me back is my RTX4’s arent even close to being worn out haha
But my internet golfer side says make the switch!
:unsure::ROFLMAO: