Many of us lose concentration over shots when we get distracted by glare and reflections from the clubhead as we address the ball.
For me it's a constant irritation when reviewing gleaming equipment in bright sunlight, that a reflection on the ground suddenly comes into view in the waggle and take-away.
So it's satisfying to know that Ping has compromised in the finish of its latest Ping Tour wedges by cutting out the glare that can distract club golfers.
"We focused a lot of effort on creating the proper finish," says John Solheim, the Ping chairman and an avid mid-handicap golfer. "We know a polished finish appeals to many golfers but we also know a shiny surface can create glare and cause a golfer to lose concentration. So we varied the finishes throughout the club. The areas that the golfer doesn't focus on are polished, the areas he or she sees at address - the hosel and top line - feature a light, brushed finish. It all makes for a very attractive club."
Versatility and higher spin rates are also among the benefits of the new stainless steel wedges, designed by Mike Nicolette, due to arrive in the UK next month.
"They have a compact head and rounded sole profile that makes them incredibly versatile," says Nicolette. "They also feature precisely machined grooves with tuned specifications that increase the spin rate, especially on short shots around the green. They give you control and precision where you need it most."
Investment cast, like all Ping irons, the wedges feature a small cavity for added forgiveness and a centre of gravity 'positioned to produce a penetrating, consistent ball flight.'
"They will especially appeal to the player who likes to be creative in his or her shot making. This wedge can do just about anything you ask it to," he says.
The Tour wedges will be available in five lofts: 52, 54, 56, 58 and 60 degrees. Each features a variable bounce angle and can be custom-fitted in one of 10 colour codes (lie angles) with steel or graphite shafts. Recommended retail price is £95 (steel shaft) or £110 (graphite). Contact
Ping Europe for your nearest stockist and fitting centre.
