Wedges

We loved the Equalizer in 2019 and we’re happy to say it’s every bit as good compared to the competition in 2020.

It’s called Equalizer because that’s what Hogan called his own pitching wedge, as he was so effective with it. It’s forged from soft 1025 carbon steel and designed to give flatter, more penetrating shot trajectories.

The Equalizer was our highest spinning wedge of the year, which is at least part of the reason it’s among our favourites wedges of 2020.

Hogan sell direct online (no retailers) so their pricing is keen – it means you can get your hands on a lovely, forged wedge for less than £80 (plus taxes, which fluctuate with the dollar), which, along with their excellent performance, make them extremely attractive.

We can’t quite work out how Callaway get away with the micro-protrusions on the face of the Jaws wedges, which push the rules to the absolute limit. Run an index finger over the face and you get an instant idea how they’ll help impart spin.

We weren’t massive fans of the previous MD4 wedges as the toe was very rounded, which drew the eye unnecessarily. But MD5 is much more attractively shaped and desirable. Being a tour-style wedge, Jaws has a very sharp leading edge which calls for precise and accurate ball striking, especially on damp turf or sand. In the wrong hands, sharp edges increase the likelihood of heavy and fat shots. The Callaway Jaws will be most at home in the hands of above-average golfers.

Cleveland CBX2 – £119

We’ve seen enough since the launch of the original Cleveland CBX two years ago to say that club golfers should be putting a priority on cavity backs when it comes to choosing new wedges. They really are a great shout. You probably won’t even notice, but they have the ability to shave a couple of shots per round from your short game, with absolutely zero trade-offs in terms of looks, feel or spin.

We love how the complication of selecting sole grinds and bounce options is made for you. So there’s less bounce where golfers need it in the lower lofts, and wider, more forgiving soles and extra bounce in the higher lofts.

The CBX2 produced plenty of spin control and feedback, without sounding or feeling like a traditional cavity back iron.