The Titleist Vokey SM9 and Cleveland RTX ZipCore are both excellent tour wedges, and both sell for about $70 to $90 used. Choose the SM9 if you want the widest choice of grinds and a classic Vokey look and feel. Choose the RTX ZipCore if you want a little more stability on off-center strikes and a slightly lower price. For most golfers, getting the right loft and bounce matters more than the brand.
Vokey SM9 vs RTX ZipCore at a glance
| Titleist Vokey SM9 | Cleveland RTX ZipCore | |
|---|---|---|
| Retail | March 11, 2022 | August 14, 2020 |
| Launch price | $179 | $149.99 |
| Key tech | Spin Milled grooves cut to tighter tolerances, heat-treated face, forward CG raised in higher lofts | Low-density ZipCore, UltiZip grooves (sharper, deeper, closer together), heat treatment |
| Grinds / soles | F, S, M, K, L, D | Low, Mid and Full soles |
| Lofts | 46 to 62 degrees (23 models) | 46 to 62 degrees depending on sole |
| GolfRoots used price (Oct 2026) | About $57 to $90, most $80 to $85 | About $70 to $80 (Full Face and RTX 6 models more) |
What's special about the Vokey SM9?
The SM9 uses Titleist's Spin Milled process with tighter tolerances for sharper grooves, and Titleist says a heat treatment on the impact area doubles groove durability. Groove shape changes by loft: narrower and deeper in the 46 to 54 degree wedges, wider and shallower in the 56 to 62 degree ones. Titleist also raised the center of gravity in the higher lofts with progressive hosel lengths and topline weight, aiming for a lower, more controlled flight on full shots. The big draw is choice: six grinds (F, S, M, K, L and D) cover nearly any swing and turf. For how the SM line has changed, read SM8 vs SM9 vs SM10.
What's special about the RTX ZipCore?
Cleveland's ZipCore is a low-density core that sits at the heart of the wedge. Cleveland says it shifts the center of gravity and raises MOI, so strikes high and low on the face stay more stable. Its UltiZip grooves are 11% sharper, 7.3% deeper and 7.4% closer together than the previous generation, according to Cleveland. Instead of letter grinds, it comes in Low, Mid and Full soles, which is simpler to choose from. Cleveland later added Full Face versions for open-face shots and followed up with the RTX 6 ZipCore. Read more in what ZipCore actually does.
Which wedge is right for you?
- Choose the SM9 if you're a confident short-game player who wants a specific grind (say an M grind for opening the face, or a D grind for steep swings and soft sand).
- Choose the RTX ZipCore if you want a bit of help on mishits, prefer a simple sole choice, or want to save a few dollars.
- Either way, match bounce to your swing and course: more bounce for steep swings and soft sand, less for sweepers and firm turf. Our wedge bounce guide explains it.
What to check when buying a used wedge
- Grooves: wedges wear faster than any club. Look at the face photos and condition grade; worn grooves mean less spin.
- Loft and bounce: both are stamped on the head and listed in the title or specs.
- Raw or plated finish: rust on a raw face is intentional and normal.
- Gapping: space wedges about 4 to 6 degrees apart below your pitching wedge.
Shop used Vokey SM9 wedges, used Cleveland wedges or all used wedges. We had more than 100 SM9 and about 20 RTX ZipCore wedges in stock in October 2026.
FAQ
Do the SM9 and RTX ZipCore spin the same?
Both are tour-level spin wedges. Real-world spin depends far more on groove wear, ball and strike than on which of the two you pick.
Which is more forgiving?
The RTX ZipCore is designed for more stability on off-center hits thanks to its low-density core.
Are used wedges worth it?
Yes, if the grooves are in good shape. A lightly used tour wedge costs about half of new.
Can I try wedges before buying?
Yes. Hit them at our Farmers Branch shop, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. See our Dallas shop page.
