Have Callaway finally made a wedge that will rival the Titleist Vokey?

Callaway Opus SP Heads

The Callaway Opus wedges were a step in the right direction. The Callaway Opus SP wedges may just challenge the very best. Here’s everything you need to know about this new model that has certainly got our expert’s attention…

The wedge landscape has seen a huge shift in the last decade, with various brands such as Callaway and TaylorMade, all aiming for one main goal: to catch up with Vokey. Can the Callaway Opus SPs do just that?

Titleist have been the frontrunner in the best wedges in golf for many years now, with other major OEMs trying – and failing – to keep up. The 2024 Callaway Opus introduction certainly felt like a shift away from previous iterations that had fallen short in their ascent to become the best wedge staple. Now, the Callaway Opus SP pushes that even further. And, in my eyes, represents a shift in the overall DNA of Callaway that I now expect to see going forward.

Callaway Opus SP

Price: £179/$199.99

Price: £179/$199.99

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Improved CG placement 
• Tour validated profile

Spin Pocket

At the heart of the new innovation is the Spin Pocket Construction, a new patented piece of technology that focuses deeply on performance.

This re-engineered 2-piece head design isn’t just a marketing ploy to release the product early; it’s a strategic reshaping of mass that optimises the centre of gravity (CG). By redistributing weight higher, the Spin Pocket raises the CG, promoting a lower, more penetrating ball flight.

The result? More spin and enhanced control, allowing professional and amateur golfers to feel the confidence to attack pins in scenarios where they would once feel nervous. My only complaint with this concept is that it’s not in every wedge – it’s only active in the higher-lofted wedges.

This seems a bit odd, as it’s clearly the main pivotal tech for this new wedge.

Spin Gen 2.0 face

Beyond the internal mechanics, the new Spin Gen 2.0 Face is the most advanced wedge face Callaway have ever made.

Featuring a new 17° groove angle with tighter spacing, it delivers more groove edge contact, ensuring consistent spin across a variety of lies for utmost consistency.

This is complemented by a deeper cross-hatch laser pattern across the face, which produces enhanced friction for more bite and stopping power on approach shots. For any golfer, this means more confidence knowing their ball will stop precisely where they want it, even on the quickest greens.

We’ll put this to the test in our official review to see if the consistency of spin rate can match other premium offerings from Titleist and Ping.

Shape 6 tour-validated profile

The new shaping with the Callaway Opus SP wedge is where this product comes into its own, representing a different DNA from Callaway wedges of old. This profile has been meticulously refined and trusted by tour players for the clean and confident look at address.

It boasts a precise leading edge shaping and refined sole geometry, representing the sixth and final iteration in the Opus prototype shaping phase. Despite the 2024 Callaway Opus range receiving plaudits for its aesthetics, we see the Opus SP as another evolution into what tour and amateur golfers want to see.

The Opus SP also introduces progressive shaping in gap wedges, designed to seamlessly blend with modern iron sets. This creates a more cohesive and visually appealing setup from top to bottom of your bag, over a clear divide, causing no hindrance to performance.

X Grind

Adding to the versatility on display on the Opus SP wedges via the new technology, the popular X Grind makes a much-anticipated return.

Back by popular demand, this grind is suited for golfers who need added bounce for forgiveness without sacrificing versatility or performance. It’s an ideal choice for players who frequently open the face around the greens or often play in firmer turf conditions.

The X Grind offers the perfect blend of playability and performance across a wide range of shots and conditions, making it a valuable asset for any golfer looking to expand their short game arsenal, from professional to amateur.

From the refined logo to the additional grind, the Callaway Opus SP wedges are a testament to Callaway’s dedication to innovation and performance.

With the aesthetics, Spin Pocket Construction, advanced Spin Gen 2.0 Face, and the refined, Tour-validated Shape 6, these wedges are, to me, a clear indication that Callaway is moving in a hugely positive direction with their hard. They offer a blend of beauty and brawn that will undoubtedly elevate the short game of golfers at all levels.