When it comes to golf wedges, no name carries more trust than Titleist Vokey. Designed by master craftsman Bob Vokey, these wedges have shaped the short games of PGA Tour players and weekend golfers alike. From the early Spin Milled wedges to today’s Vokey SM10, every generation has pushed the boundaries of spin, control, and versatility—yet the hallmarks of craftsmanship and performance have remained the same.
If you’re curious about the history of Vokey wedges, how each model evolved, and whether older versions still hold up, this guide will walk you through the full timeline.
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The Spin Milled Era: Where It All Began
Before the numbering system, Vokey launched its Spin Milled wedges, introducing precision-milled grooves that gave golfers unprecedented spin and stopping power. At the time, this technology was a complete game-changer, redefining wedge performance for both pros and amateurs.
Even today, the Spin Milled era wedges are still valued by golfers who love a classic look and feel. For players who want quality wedges at an affordable price, these older models remain a smart option that continues to compete with newer releases in terms of control and reliability.
Vokey SM4 Wedges – Maximum Conforming Grooves
The Titleist Vokey SM4, released in 2011, marked the beginning of the numbered series. It introduced grooves pushed right up to the USGA’s maximum legal limits, ensuring players could generate the highest possible spin while staying tournament-conforming.
The SM4 was known for its durability and crisp feel, making it a workhorse wedge that still has plenty of life for golfers seeking dependable performance.
Vokey SM5 Wedges – More Grinds, More Options
In 2014, the SM5 wedges built on the SM4’s success by expanding the available grind options. Bob Vokey’s team introduced new sole configurations designed to fit different swing types and turf conditions, helping golfers better customize their short-game tools.
The SM5 remains a popular option on the resale market because it balances versatility, spin, and affordability, appealing to golfers who want to sharpen their short game without investing in the newest release.
Vokey SM6 Wedges – Progressive Center of Gravity
The SM6 wedges (2016) were revolutionary thanks to the introduction of Progressive Center of Gravity (CG) technology. Each loft was designed with a different CG placement, meaning:
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Lower-lofted wedges launched higher with more stability.
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Higher-lofted wedges launched lower with more spin.
This innovation made wedge gapping more consistent and gave players precision control around the greens. Many golfers still game SM6 wedges today, and they remain a favorite for their blend of modern design and classic feel.
Vokey SM7 Wedges – Refining the Flight Windows
In 2018, the SM7 wedges refined Progressive CG even further, delivering the most consistent trajectory and distance control Vokey had ever achieved. With one of the broadest grind and loft lineups in Vokey history, the SM7 gave golfers endless options for matching wedges to their personal short-game style.
Plenty of golfers still trust the SM7, and for good reason—it offers tour-level spin and versatility at a lower price point today.
Vokey SM8 Wedges – Forward CG Stability
The SM8 wedges, released in 2020, pushed the CG forward, creating wedges that stayed incredibly stable through impact. This design gave golfers more confidence and consistency on everything from full swings to delicate pitches.
The SM8 is still widely in play among both tour professionals and recreational golfers, and it competes head-to-head with newer models. For players looking for high-end wedge performance at a value, the SM8 is a fantastic choice.
Vokey SM9 Wedges – Sharper Grooves, Expanded Grinds
Launched in 2022, the SM9 wedges continued Vokey’s tradition of groove innovation. With sharper, deeper grooves designed to maximize spin retention, the SM9 delivered unmatched control on approach shots and short-game finesse.
The grind lineup was also expanded, giving golfers even more ways to fine-tune their wedge setups. The SM9 remains a tour favorite, and with many golfers upgrading to SM10, it has become a hot option on the resale market.
Vokey SM10 Wedges – The Latest and Greatest
The Vokey SM10 wedges (2024) represent the pinnacle of Bob Vokey’s design evolution. With even tighter flight windows, precision groove shaping, and the most extensive grind selection yet, the SM10 is designed for golfers who demand elite short-game performance.
For players who want the latest in wedge technology, the SM10 is the gold standard—but it still builds on decades of proven craftsmanship from the Spin Milled days through the SM9.
Do Older Vokey Wedges Still Compete?
One of the best things about Vokey wedges is that older models still deliver outstanding performance. While each generation has introduced new technologies, the fundamentals—spin, feel, and control—have always been top-tier.
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Spin Milled & SM4–SM7: These wedges remain excellent for golfers seeking value. They provide the reliable grooves and grinds that shaped the Vokey legacy.
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SM8 & SM9: Still highly relevant on tour and among amateurs, offering innovations that hold up strongly against the latest SM10.
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Across all generations: Bob Vokey’s craftsmanship ensures that even older models can sharpen your short game without compromise.
Whether you’re gaming the SM10 or picking up a gently used SM6, you can trust that Vokey wedges will deliver on the course.
Which Vokey Wedges Are Best for Me?
Choosing the right Vokey wedges depends on your skill level, playing style, and budget. Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Best for Budget-Friendly Players: Spin Milled through SM6 models deliver proven spin and control at a fraction of the cost of new wedges. Perfect for golfers who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.
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Best All-Around Value: The SM7 and SM8 offer modern tech like Progressive and Forward CG while being widely available on the resale market at excellent prices.
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Best for Competitive Golfers: The SM9 is still trusted by professionals, with sharp grooves and versatile grinds that give you precise control on any shot.
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Best for Latest Tech: The SM10 is ideal if you want the most advanced grooves, trajectory control, and grind selection currently available.
No matter which model you choose, every Vokey wedge carries Bob Vokey’s legendary craftsmanship and is designed to help you save strokes around the green.
Upgrade Your Short Game with Next Round Golf
At Next Round Golf, we carry Vokey wedges from across the generations, including Spin Milled classics, SM5–SM7 bargains, and the latest SM10 models. Our selection covers every loft, grind, and condition, making it easy to find wedges that fit your game and your budget.
Shopping used Vokey wedges not only saves you money but also gives you access to wedges that are still proven performers year after year.
Browse our full collection today and see why golfers everywhere trust Vokey wedges to take their short games to the next level.