The PGA is full of rules and regulations, one of which determines the types of wedges that are illegal for competitive play. Below, we’ll introduce you to 4, explaining what it is they did to land a spot on the banned list.
What Makes a Wedge Illegal?
Before we introduce you to the rebels of the group, let’s first dive into the things that make wedges illegal. The truth is, there is no list of banned clubs, though there are characteristics that are allowed when competing. The USGA Equipment Rules line out many of these characteristics, including grooves.
What Are The 2010 Groove Rules?
Groove rules were implemented back in 2010, created to line out the rules when it comes to grooves on wedges. One of the biggest reasons why they were introduced was to ensure that players were performing based on skill not because of technological advances in golf clubs and wedges.
It’s because of these rules in addition to other features that some wedges have been deemed illegal.
The 4 Illegal Gold Wedges Pros Must Stay Away From
The USGA Club Database is full of information and stats about all the clubs out there, including some that don’t quite fit into the rules. There are 4 that the pros must stay away from, all of which are listed below.
1. Lazrus Wedge: Breaks USGA Equipment Rules
The Lazrus wedge came out with a bang, kicking off the non-conforming list of wedges out there. Refusing to meet the standards set up by the USGA, Lazrus has kept innovating and released a number of golf wedges that are known for their good control and great spin.
Still, the unique U-shapes groves are not part of the USGA’s list of legal golf wedges, leaving many releases from Lazrus marked off the list.
2. Extreme Wedge by Smithworks: Breaks 2010 Groove Rules
Smithworks is another big player in the golf equipment game, with some hot releases that both pro and amateurs love. Though their appeal reaches far and wide, a few of them are illegal for use, including the Extreme Wedge.
The design is sleek and lightweight, deemed illegal for play because it’s said to give golfers more spin control. They are marketed as an advanced tool that allows golfers to get the best aim and shot, and it doesn’t seem like they will be changing that to obey the rules anytime soon.
3. Spin Doctor Wedge: Club Face Inserts Break USGA Rules
The wedges from Spin Doctor are some of the most sought-after clubs for their build. They have advanced technologies that are said to work with golfers’ ability to get a good spin on the ball. The USGA has banned the use of clubs that enhance performance, as they want to keep the sport about skill rather than equipment.
Spin Doctor has been on the market for a while and knows about the rules, though they have chosen not to conform and have kept going back to the drawing board to release the next big thing.
4. Alien Sand Wedge: Does Not Meet 2010 Groove Rules
Last but not least, the Alien Sand wedge is another wedge that’s illegal and refuses to conform. The design is said to have grooves that are placed too close together. It’s said that, with grooves placed close together, the ball can travel further and get a better spin, enhancing the trajectory for both pro and amateurs.
It’s because of these grooves that Alien Sand wedges are not allowed anywhere near a tournament and probably won’t be any time soon.
Illegal Golf Wedges: Know the Rules
In order to keep things as fair as possible, the USGA has set out a few ground rules that all participants must follow. Among them is knowing the characteristics that are allowed and not allowed in tournaments. Additionally, golfers cannot carry an unlimited amount, limited to 14 in their bags at all times.
Not all players are perfect and some of them step on the greens with illegal wedges, hoping to get around the rules and golf using their favorite picks. It will cost you if you get caught, so be sure to weigh your options before stepping on the green with one of these 4 illegal golf wedges.