Cleveland’s RTZ Wedges—New Metal, Superior Feel, Lots of Spin

When you think of wedges, you don’t really think of any Carth-shattering developments. Yea, someone will release a new grind and bounce combination, but there’s only so many ways you can shape a wedge. Combine that with the USGA/R&A restrictions on wedge grooves, and you wouldn’t think there’s really anything “new” you can do with wedges anymore.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Well rather than just running it by the grinding wheel again, Cleveland has decided to actually revolution its wedges by completely changing the metal it’s using to make them.

Rather than using 8620 carbon steel (which is the metal of choice for nearly all OEMS), Cleveland has developed an all-new metal alloy that it believes is better suited for making wedges. The new metal, called “Z-Alloy,” is softer and less dense than 8620. What this means to the non-metallurgist is that the new RTZ wedges will be softer feeling and better performing—the latter of which is made possible through the engineers’ ability to relocate the center of gravity closer to the true center of the club face.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The performance benefits unlocked by the new Z-Alloy are bolstered by proven, Cleveland technologies, including UltiZip—a groove design that looks to promote better ball contact by offering more space to evacuate debris, like grass and dirt—and HydraZip—a unique combination of face blasting and laser-milling that looks to maximize spin performance in wet conditions. Additionally, Z-Alloy promises to be significantly more resistant to rust, which will help the RTZs retain all the performance benefits it’s equipped with over a longer period of time. In layman’s terms, the RTZs promise to be more durable—which is great if you’re someone who’s not looking to maintain performance, without having to periodically replace equipment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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As for the stuff you’re familiar with, the RTZ is offered in three different finishes—Tour Satin, Tour Black and Raw Tour Rack—and four grind options:

• Low — 6° of bounce with plenty of heel, toe and trailing edge relief so you can manipulate the face in every way imaginable. Available in 58° through 62° lofts.
• Mid — 10° of bounce with a V-Shaped sole makes this a great option for a variety of lies and conditions. Available in 46° through 60° lofts.
• Full — 12° of bounce with a classic sole makes this great for full shots, as well as thick rough and fluffy bunkers. Available in 56° through 60° lofts.
• Adapt — The new guy. Equipped with full-face grooves, 8° of bounce and heel, toe, and trailing edge relief, this is ideal for those open-faced shots.

The RTZ wedges will be available starting January 17th. Standard option RTZs will retail at $170, while RTZ Tour Rack wedges will retail at $190.

Cover Image via Golf Magazine