The Titleist SM11 wedges are some of the best-performing wedges on the market, but for most golfers the challenge isn’t whether they’re good, it’s knowing which ones to choose.
Loft, bounce, grind. It can get confusing quickly.
In this guide I’ll break it down simply so you can choose the right SM11 setup for your game.
Step 1: start with loft gapping
Before worrying about grind or bounce, you need to get your lofts right.
A good starting point:
- Pitching wedge, usually 44 to 46 degrees
- Gap wedge, 50 to 52 degrees
- Sand wedge, 54 to 56 degrees
- Lob wedge, 58 to 60 degrees
The key is consistent gaps of 4 to 6 degrees. If your irons are stronger lofted, you may need to adjust slightly. I have covered how many wedges to carry in what wedges should I carry.
Step 2: understand bounce
This is where most golfers get it wrong. Bounce is what stops the club digging into the ground.
- Low bounce, 4 to 8 degrees. Better for firm conditions and shallow swings.
- Mid bounce, 8 to 12 degrees. The safest option for most golfers.
- High bounce, 12 degrees and above. Best for soft ground and steeper swings.
Most golfers I see actually benefit from more bounce, not less, especially in New Zealand where conditions change a lot through the year.
Step 3: choosing the right grind
This is where Titleist gives you options, but also where it gets confusing. Here is a simple way to look at it.
F Grind
Full sole, the most forgiving option, and great for full shots. Ideal for gap and sand wedges.
S Grind
Slight trailing edge relief for clean contact while staying stable. A good all-round option.
M Grind
Heel and toe relief for more versatility around the greens. Suits players who like to open the face.
D Grind
High bounce with versatility, great for steeper players. A very popular choice for New Zealand conditions.
K Grind
The highest bounce and widest sole, extremely forgiving in bunkers and soft turf. If you struggle in the sand, this is your friend.
Step 4: match it to your swing type
If you are a steeper player who takes divots, more bounce is your friend, so look at the D or K grinds.
If you are a shallower player who clips the ball, you can use lower bounce, and the M or S grind works well.
If you are unsure, mid bounce in an F or S grind is a safe place to start.
A simple, proven SM11 setup
If you just want something that works:
- 52 degree F Grind, mid bounce
- 56 degree D Grind, higher bounce
- 60 degree M Grind, versatility
That covers full shots, bunker play and short game creativity.
Should you get fitted for your wedges?
You don’t have to, but it can make a big difference. A proper wedge fitting will dial in your turf interaction, match bounce to your swing, and improve your consistency around the greens.
If you want to go deeper, you can book a club fitting or a session through golf lessons and coaching. That said, if you follow the guide above you will already be a long way ahead of most golfers.
Final thoughts
The SM11 wedges give you a lot of options, but you don’t need to overcomplicate it. Start with the right loft gaps, enough bounce, and a grind that suits how you deliver the club. Get those right and you will see a real improvement in your short game.
You can browse the full range of Vokey SM11 wedges, including the popular Chrome right-handed models, Chrome left-handed options, and the Jet Black finish. If bunkers are the weak spot, it is also worth reading about the PING BunkR wedge.
FAQs
What is the best SM11 wedge for most golfers?
A mid-bounce option in F or S grind is the safest and most versatile choice.
Do I need a 60 degree wedge?
Not always. If you struggle with consistency, a 56 degree can often do the job more reliably.
What bounce should I use in NZ conditions?
Mid to higher bounce tends to work best due to softer turf and varied conditions.
Are SM11 wedges worth upgrading to?
If your current wedges are worn or inconsistent, upgrading can make a noticeable difference in spin and control.
Happy golfing,
Scott Pickett
PGA Professional
Founder – Golf 360
Mount Maunganui
