Cleveland Golf recently introduced their new Zip Grooves on their CG12 model wedges, which they claim are 25% bigger than standard grooves. This is accomplished by using a proprietary CNC mill bit. Cleveland Golf states that this new groove process is an envelope-stretching geometry achieving the maximum conforming depth and width dimensions allowed by the Rules. The integrity of the grooves is maintained by applying a proprietary coating to each groove for protection during the face sandblasting process.

Has the USGA re-opened the controversy over groove technology? They have proposed a Rule change regarding grooves that would take affect in 2010. Their objective is to limit the spin generation on shots from the rough to that of the traditional V-groove. Read more about the proposal under Playing By The Rules in this issue.

With new machining technology like Cleveland Golf's being developed, the USGA's timing is right if they hope to limit the spin on shots from rough.

However, the USGA proposal will grandfather Cleveland's new groove for 10 years.