Cleveland RTX 4 Tour Wedge Review
Ratings
Performance
Innovation
Look & Feel
Interest
Having been an avid golfer for more than a decade, I felt that it was time to upgrade from “cookie-cutter” wedges to those which are preferred by the pros. However, I also felt that previous models were unable to provide me with the “feel” required to tackle more difficult shots. These were the primary reasons why I decided to give the Cleveland Golf RTX 4 Tour Satin Wedge a shot. I was pleasantly surprised with the results.
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Things to Consider Before Buying a Cleveland RTX 4 Tour Wedge
It should be mentioned that the RTX 4 is not necessarily meant for the novice player. In other words, he or she should have already honed their basic golf skills before upgrading to such a precise wedge. This is quite important, as this club is designed with a more subtle sense of responsiveness in mind. Those who are new to the game might not be able to fully appreciate the precision behind this wedge.
Ideally, this wedge is intended for players who are looking to improve variables such as trajectory, distance and stopping power. The ability to evaluate such variables will obviously take a certain level of experience. Those who still feel that they are novices could instead choose alternative entry-level models such as the Professional Open Series 690 Wedge by NordicaGolf or the Cleveland 588 RTX Satin Chrome wedge.
Cleveland Golf RTX 4 Tour Satin Wedge Detailed Review
The RTX 4 Satin is a perfect example of the marriage between user-friendly precision and modern technology. Billed as a “tour-authentic” wedge, this model is designed for players who are at or near the professional level (1). Similar to many other top-end producers, the main feature of this wedge involves the use of deep and sharp grooves within the face of the club. This provides superior level of spin, loft and control. Such a configuration also helps to reduce excess bounce on the green.
Spin was also a very important factor that the designers of the RTX 4 took into account. They realised that rotations per minute equated to superior control and therefore, greater levels of accuracy. Not only are the grooves intended to accommodate for this need, but the use of additional laser milling provides and even rougher surface. This allows the face to grip the ball upon contact; increasing both swing efficiency and control during challenging shots. Some of the main benefits of this wedge include:
Pros
Cons
Now that we have taken a look at the basics, let’s examine some of the main aspects and features of this wedge.
Features and Benefits
Physical Characteristics of the Head
As a fan of the RTX series, I was actually a bit surprised that the size of the head was reduced. I enjoyed the forgiveness associated with the RTX 3 and the fact that the dimensions were slightly reduced. However, it can be argued that the reason for this involves the fact that this head is less offset than the RTX 3. A leading edge that is straighter also points to how Cleveland is trying to accommodate the needs of players who desire more versatility and feel within a wedge.
All About the Spin: Rotex Face Technology
Like many experienced golfers, the main reason that I purchased the RTX 4 involved the rates of spin that it was able to achieve. Considering the fact that Cleveland has been manufacturing high-end wedges since 1979, it only makes sense that they are keeping in line with their competitors. Cleveland has incorporated their proprietary Tour Zip grooves within the RTX 4. Still, the fact that they augmented this face with laser etching really makes a difference in terms of feel and responsiveness. This was very important to me, as I tended to lack control during my short game.
Greater Versatility
One of the issues which had frustrated me with wedges in the fact was that they were either designed for increased spin or higher levels of versatility. I have rarely come across a model which has been able to address both. The RTX 4 utilises four sole grinds alongside an innovative “XLow” variant. While obviously beneficial when tackling standard course challenges, I found these grinds to be even more suited for handling greenside shots.
The Centre of Gravity
The COG is one of the key indicators of the quality of any wedge and once again, Cleveland aims to please. The RTX four has been slightly modified to offer a more precise way for players to control the centre of gravity. This is due to the presence of “Feel Balancing Technology”. As a result, both low knockdown shots as well as high lobs can be achieved with a more precise trajectory (2).
An Amazing Level of Authenticity
Those who want to play like a pro should always be provided with the very same equipment that the professionals would use while on tour. The Cleveland RTX 4 has been designed with the best wedge grip and the number-one shaft in the industry today. In fact, these are the very same components which players will utilise on the PGA circuit.
A Closer Look at the Four Different Grinds
FULL
The full-sole grind is mainly designed for sand shots that require steeper attack angles (3). The loft angles associated with this grind range between 56º and 60º. I personally feel that a traditional full-sole wedge should always be included within any bag and I also was impressed with the extra levels of support that this grind provided on bunker shots.
MID
The mid-sole grind is more suited for pitch shots during medium and/or softer conditions. The main purpose of a mid sole is to offer a greater sense of stability when dealing with full shots. It should also be pointed out that players who wish to use the entire face of their wedge from time to time should perhaps opt for this version. Loft angles between 46º and 64º can be addressed with the mid-sole grind.
LOW
When dealing with hard course conditions, the low-sole grind could represent the best choice. Those who tend to hit shallower divots when tackling full shots should find a low-sole grind helpful. This version is available for lofts between 56º and 64º.
XLOW
Cleveland offers their new “XLow” grind (for ultra-low bounce rates). As should be expected, this version is intended to be used on medium to hard surfaces. Flop shots and extremely tight lies are two of the main scenarios which this wedge will address. Today’s Golfer points out that those who rarely hit divots on wedge shots could likewise choose the XLow grind.
Loft and Bounce Combinations
As mentioned previously, Cleveland has placed a great deal of thought into the amount of versatility that players can enjoy with the RTX 4. These wedges offer and impressive 18 different combinations in terms of loft and bounce. The design is also able to accommodate angles between 46º and 64º (2). In other words, the chances are high that every player will be able to find the wedge that is best suited for his or her playing style. However, this sense of versatility can also be seen in the grind options and this brings us to the next main point.
A Harder Wedge Design
Finally, it is important to mention that the Cleveland RTX 4 boasts a slightly harder feel when compared to the RTX 3 and third-party models such as the CBX. This difference will normally only be felt by players who have an extremely sensitive grip or those who have become extremely accustomed to a previous wedge. Anyone who regularly uses forged wedges could also notice a slight disparity. While negligible, Golf Monthly points out that a few golfers might need a bit of time to acclimate to this design (4).
Cleveland Golf RTX 4 Tour Satin Wedge Specifications
Loft | Grind | Bounce Angle | Lie | Length | S Weight | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
46° | MID | 8° | 64° | 35 5/8" | D3 | RH / LH |
48° | MID | 8° | 64° | 35 5/8" | D3 | RH / LH |
50° | MID | 10° | 64° | 35 7/16" | D4 | RH / LH |
52° | MID | 10° | 64° | 35 7/16" | D4 | RH / LH |
54° | MID | 10° | 64° | 35 3/16" | D5 | RH / LH |
56° | LOW | 8° | 64° | 35 3/16" | D5 | RH / LH |
56° | MID | 10° | 64° | 35 3/16" | D5 | RH / LH |
56° | FULL | 10° | 64° | 35 3/16" | D5 | RH / LH |
58° | XLOW | 3° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
58° | LOW | 6° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
58° | MID | 9° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
58° | FULL | 9° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
60° | XLOW | 3° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
60° | LOW | 6° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
60° | MID | 9° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
60° | FULL | 9° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
62° | LOW | 6° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
64° | LOW | 6° | 64° | 34 7/8" | D5 | RH / LH |
Dynamic Golf Tour Issue S400 Shaft
A Choice of Shafts
The Cleveland RTX 4 offers players the possibility of choosing two different shafts. The standard option is the True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400. It should be noted that this shaft is approximately three grams heavier when compared to the S200 (the shaft which the majority of manufacturers currently employ). Still, it is also possible to opt for the Tour Issue which is slightly lighter. The only thing to keep in mind here is that this version is primarily intended for professional players. This is why it is a good idea to check the feel of the shaft before committing to the upgraded variant.
Golf Pride Tour Velvet Grip
Cleveland RTX 4 Tour Wedge - Social Proof
I wanted to see what other experienced players had to say, so I decided to source a few useful reviews in order to help the average golfer obtain a more objective opinion:
"
There are extra little grooves in there, which makes it spin more – and it definitely does spin more.
Shane Lowry
"
I really love the bounce profile here. I like the feeling of using the back bounce on the wedge so, when I look at that, it’s something that really appeals to me.
Graeme McDowell
"
Having something that you can mishit a little bit and still see the results of what you’re trying to accomplish is amazing.
Sean Crocker
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Ping Glide 2.0 Wedge
Retailing at approximately £120 pounds, the Glide 2.0 provides superior levels of spin (up to 400 RPM) as well as sharper grooves (5). Like the RTX 4, there are four different sole grinds to choose from and consistency can be achieved during dry as well as wet conditions.
Other features include: Machine-milled faces. A slightly longer grip. The ability to handle finesses shots with ease.
Priced slightly higher at (roughly) £140 pounds, the TaylorMade Milled Grind Wedge offers a slightly softer feel when played alongside the RTX 4; ideal for golfers who desire a club with superior sensitivity. A classically styled blade and a nickel-chrome finish offer up a traditional flavour while on the course.
Additional advantages of this wedge include: Three different sole grind variations. The use of 8620 carbon steel within the head and shaft. A great choice for those who desire accuracy on full shots.
Mizuno S18 Wedge
Much like the other wedges mentioned within this article, the Mizuno S18 incorporates a milled face employing “Quad-Cut” groove technology. Consistent spin rates are likewise achieved thanks to an adjustable centre of gravity as well as a bevelled topline.
A handful of other interesting characteristics associated with this model include: A club suited for full shots and stronger lofts. Higher lofts will benefit from the presence of shallower grooves. Superior distance control when negotiating pitch shots.
Should I buy the Cleveland RTX 4 Tour Wedge
Taking Your Game to the Next Level
The Cleveland Golf RTX 4 Tour Satin Wedge represents a great club for experienced players who have been looking to add more spin and versatility to their shots. Thanks to laser milling and a slightly harder face, the responsiveness of this wedge is also quite impressive. Some of the main reasons why the RTX 4 could represent a great addition to your game include:
- Impressive spin from nearly any lie.
- Tour-level shafts and grips.
- The inclusion of four unique sole grinds.
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