Cleveland Golf has been a pioneer in the cavity back wedge category, and the CBX Zipcore wedge continues the tradition of providing forgiveness and spin to golfers struggling around the greens. Aimed at high handicap players seeking premium spin, this review explores the features and performance of the CBX Zipcore.
Looks
At address, the CBX Zipcore appears slightly larger than its counterpart, the RTX Zipcore. The thin top line and rounded edges create a sleek look, deviating from the sharper edges of the RTX Zipcores. The offset is closer to a blade wedge, appealing to most players. Despite lacking a visible cavity, the wedge’s substantial build suggests enhanced forgiveness, and the width of the sole complements the overall appearance.
Sound & Feel
Cleveland Golf has successfully blended the feel of a blade with the cavity-back CBX Zipcore. Good contact produces a low-pitched “snap,” even on strikes outside the sweet spot. The introduction of a TPU insert aids in vibration dampening, resulting in a muted feedback on mishits. The wedge provides a consistent and satisfying feel, contributing to a great feel on every shot.
Control & Forgiveness
The CBX Zipcore is designed to offer more assistance with your short game, similar to a cavity back or game improvement iron. Changes include a higher MOI from heel to toe and further up the face, reducing rotation and twisting for more consistent spin and distance. The wide sole proves beneficial in avoiding fat shots, with multiple sole options catering to different loft ranges. The “Utilizip Grooves” contribute to spin numbers comparable to blade wedges, making the CBX Zipcore versatile for various players.
Value for Money
The CBX Zipcore’s sleek appearance, coupled with wide sole forgiveness, makes it stand out in its category. With a $149 price tag it is not a cheap wedge, however the combination of premium spin control and forgiveness suggests good value for mid-high handicap players looking to improve their wedge play.
Performance
The wide sole proves consistently helpful during testing, preventing fat shots and enhancing playability from various lies. The Utilizip Grooves contribute to impressive spin, making the CBX Zipcore comparable to blade wedges. The wedge’s design and performance make it suitable for a wide variety of players, from mid-high handicappers to better players looking for forgiveness in specific wedge types.
The Pros & Cons of the Cleveland Golf CBX Zipcore
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sleek appearance with a thin top line | The sole might be to thick for better players |
| Utilizip Grooves for impressive spin control | The sole might limited certain shots for skilled golfers |
| Wide sole for forgiveness and playability | |
| Suitable for a variety of players, from mid-high handicappers to better players | |
Who is the club for?
The CBX Zipcore wedge caters to a broad range of players, particularly mid-high handicappers and beginners struggling from 125 yards and in especially around the greens. Mid handicap players may find appeal in using the CBX Zipcore for specific full swing shots, while higher handicappers can benefit from its forgiveness across the entire set.
Our rating of the CBX Zipcore:
Price: $149
Spin: 9.1/10
Feel & Control: 9.1/10
Accuracy: 9.3/10
Forgiveness: 9.2/10
Total: 9.2/100
Our final thoughts on the Cleveland Golf CBX Zipcore wedges
The Cleveland Golf CBX Zipcore wedge combines a sleek appearance with wide sole forgiveness, making it a standout choice for golfers seeking improved scoring opportunities. The wedge’s ability to blend the feel of a blade with cavity back forgiveness, coupled with versatile performance, positions it as a valuable addition to a wide range of players’ bags for years to come.
