Titleist embraces the shadows with new Black Vapor irons and wedges

A shiny new set of Titleist irons is already desirable enough, but when the brand inevitably comes out with a new limited-edition finish, it's enough to get any passionate golfer's mouth watering.

The American company dropped an eye-catching oil can finish of their T-Series irons a few months ago, and have now followed it up with a blacked-out take on both their flagship irons and their Vokey SM11 wedges.

Released in what Titleist calls the Black Vapor collection, the clubs see the introduction of a new Titanium Carbide Vapor finish, which unlike standard PVD or paint is bonded to the clubhead with a vapor-deposition process for enhanced durability and smudge-resistance.

The finish will be available on all four T-Series iron models, starting from the players T100 iron all the way through to the game-improvement T350 iron, as well as the Vokey SM11 wedges, in both left and right-handed options.

 The Vokeys will also come with the option of a WedgeWorks-designed Flight Lines: which consist of precision-engraved lines on the hosel that reinforce proper address positions for three specific short-game shots.

While alternative finishes are uncommon on tour, a select few players have gravitated towards black irons in recent years. Cameron Smith, a Titleist player, has played blacked-out Titleist irons for some years now.

I've used the black finish since the AP2’s came out, I can't remember how long ago,” said Smith. “I think for me just how they look, looks like a tighter finish line on top. They also look a little bit smaller, so I feel like you kind of have to concentrate a little bit more to see it.”

In a surprise move, Justin Thomas has also been spotted testing a Black Vapor T250 2-iron in preparation for links season, which starts this week at the Genesis Scottish Open.

You can browse the full range and get your pre-orders in now at Titleist's website, with the on-sale date set for July 23.