Titleist Vokey Design SM9 Wedge
The previous-generation tour standard now available at a significant discount — same Spin Milled grooves, 6 grind options, and tour-validated shaping that made it the most-played wedge on the PGA TOUR, with the SM10 succession driving prices to ~$139.
The consensus
The Titleist Vokey Design SM9 is the previous-generation version of the most-played wedge in professional golf, now available at a significant discount following the SM10 launch. Across 14 sources spanning expert reviews, robot testing, forum sentiment, and retail feedback, the SM9 earns consensus praise as a tour-proven wedge that delivers 95%+ of current-generation performance at roughly 78% of the price. The Spin Milled grooves remain elite, the six grind options cover every playing condition, and the 8620 carbon steel body provides the honest feedback that serious wedge players demand.
Where sources agree most strongly: value and spin quality. The SM9's price drop to approximately $139 (from $179 MSRP) is the single most-discussed topic across all sources, with forum consensus overwhelmingly recommending it over the SM10 for recreational golfers. MyGolfSpy's testing measured spin rates within 200 RPM of the SM10 on full shots, and the loft-optimized groove geometry — tighter spacing on lower lofts, wider on higher lofts — continues to deliver category-leading spin consistency. The six grinds (F, S, M, K, D, L) remain identical to the SM10's lineup, giving golfers the same fitting versatility at a lower entry point.
Where the consensus fractures: longevity versus savings. The SM10's updated heat treatment produces grooves that stay sharper longer, and testing data suggests a 200-400 RPM advantage on partial shots that grows over time as the SM9's softer steel wears faster. For competitive players who replace wedges every 50-75 rounds, the SM10 may actually cost less per round of fresh-groove performance. The other honest limitation is availability — as production winds down, specific loft/bounce/grind/finish combinations are becoming harder to find, particularly in Jet Black. The SM9 is the right choice for golfers who prioritize value and plan to play the wedge for 1-2 seasons before replacing it. For those who demand the absolute latest in groove technology or need a specific rare configuration, the SM10 is worth the $40 premium.
The previous-generation tour standard now available at a significant discount — same Spin Milled grooves, 6 grind options, and tour-validated shaping that made it the most-played wedge on the PGA TOUR, with the SM10 succession driving prices to ~$139.