Ping introduced its next generation of specialty wedges engineered to bring golfers lower-launching, higher-spinning performance into and around greens.
The Glide 4.0 wedge series features slightly rounded, compact designs in multi-material-constructed clubs that combine the slightly softer 8620 carbon steel with a larger and softer elastomer insert behind the face to provide a soft, responsive feel with 36 percent more face contact. Advancements to the lead edge and hosel transition provide a captured look at address.
“We packed a lot of performance into the series to ensure it appeals to golfers of all abilities,†said John K. Solheim, Ping president. “The wedges have a great look at address and are extremely versatile in all conditions, relying on precision-milled grooves and a new face blast to increase friction and deliver high spin and consistency.â€
Solheim says the details in the Glide 4.0, such as a longer 11.5-inch Lamkin Crossline grip for choking down on shots when necessary to play touch shots around the green, are designed to save shots. Ping’s engineers focused on expanding the grind and loft options to make custom fitting easier and more precise, with head sizes of the versatile “S†and “T†grind versions smaller than the more forgiving “W†and “E†options.
In all, there are 17 grind/loft combinations designed to match a golfer’s angle of attack and typical turf conditions.
Along with its precision-milled face and grooves, a new Emery face blast adds more texture to the hitting surface, creating higher friction and more interaction between the club and ball for more spin and lower launch. The hydropearl 2.0 chrome finish adds to the spin/launch dynamics, especially from wet and rough conditions.
“The new Emery blast makes a huge difference in performance and is the result of our ongoing research into the role friction plays in adding spin during ball interaction,†Solheim said.
The four distinctly different sole grinds include an Eye2 sand wedge-inspired version in four lofts – distinguished by the high-toe design made popular by the late Karsten Solheim’s iconic sand wedge developed in the early 1980s. It features a blended hosel and dished sole design similar to the original Eye2.
