Golf is a game that requires precision and accuracy, and having the right equipment can make a big difference in your performance on the course. One of the most important clubs in a golfer’s bag is the wedge, which is used for short approach shots and shots around the green. Cleveland Golf is a well-known brand that specializes in producing high-quality wedges, and two of their most popular models are the CBX ZipCore and the CBX2. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both of these wedges and compare them to help you decide which one is right for you.
CBX ZipCore Wedge
The CBX ZipCore wedge is the successor to Cleveland Golf’s popular CBX wedge. This new model features a unique core design that moves weight away from the center of the clubhead, which helps to improve spin and control. The ZipCore technology also helps to create a more forgiving wedge, which is beneficial for golfers of all skill levels.
The CBX ZipCore wedge also features Cleveland Golf’s fourth-generation Rotex face technology, which provides maximum spin and control on all types of shots. The wedge is available in a range of lofts, from 46 degrees to 64 degrees, which allows golfers to find the perfect wedge to fit their game.
CBX2 Wedge
The CBX2 wedge is the latest model in Cleveland Golf’s CBX series. This wedge is designed to be more versatile than its predecessor, with a larger sweet spot and a more forgiving clubhead. The CBX2 features a hollow-cavity design that moves weight away from the center of the clubhead, which helps to increase forgiveness and improve launch angles.
Like the CBX ZipCore, the CBX2 features Cleveland Golf’s fourth-generation Rotex face technology, which provides maximum spin and control on all types of shots. The CBX2 wedge is also available in a range of lofts, from 46 degrees to 64 degrees.
Comparison
Both the CBX ZipCore and CBX2 wedges are high-quality clubs that offer exceptional performance on the course. However, there are a few key differences between the two models that may make one more suitable for your game than the other.
The CBX ZipCore wedge is designed to provide maximum spin and control, with a unique core design that moves weight away from the center of the clubhead. This makes the ZipCore a great option for golfers who want to be able to shape their shots and control spin. The ZipCore also has a slightly smaller profile than the CBX2, which may be more appealing to golfers who prefer a more traditional wedge design.
The CBX2 wedge, on the other hand, is designed to be more forgiving and versatile, with a larger sweet spot and a hollow-cavity design that moves weight away from the center of the clubhead. This makes the CBX2 a great option for golfers who want a wedge that is easier to hit and more forgiving on mis-hits. The CBX2 also has a slightly larger profile than the ZipCore, which may be more appealing to golfers who prefer a more modern wedge design.
Additional Factors to Consider
While the design and performance of the CBX ZipCore and CBX2 wedges are important factors to consider when choosing a wedge, there are also other factors that may influence your decision.
One of the most important factors is the price of the wedges. The CBX2 wedge is generally more expensive than the CBX ZipCore, which may be a consideration for golfers who are on a budget. However, it’s important to remember that investing in a high-quality wedge can make a big difference in your performance on the course, so it may be worth spending a little extra money to get the right club.
Another factor to consider is the appearance of the wedges. The CBX ZipCore has a more traditional design, with a smaller profile and a classic shape. The CBX2, on the other hand, has a larger profile and a more modern shape. Some golfers may prefer one design over the other, depending on their personal taste and playing style.
Finally, it’s important to consider your own skill level and playing style when choosing a wedge. Golfers who are more experienced and want to have maximum control over their shots may prefer the CBX ZipCore, while golfers who are still developing their skills and want a more forgiving club may prefer the CBX2.
Expert Reviews
To get a better understanding of the CBX ZipCore and CBX2 wedges, it’s helpful to look at expert reviews from golfers and golfing publications.
Golf Digest gave the CBX ZipCore wedge a Gold rating in their 2021 Hot List, noting that it provides “outstanding spin and control on all types of shots” and has a “traditional shape and compact size that players will love.” They also noted that the ZipCore technology “produces a solid, satisfying sound and feel at impact.”
The CBX2 wedge also received high praise from Golf Digest, earning a Silver rating in their 2021 Hot List. They noted that the CBX2 has a “forgiving and versatile design that will help players of all levels improve their short game” and praised the larger sweet spot and improved turf interaction.
Golf Monthly also reviewed both wedges, with the CBX ZipCore receiving a 4.5/5 rating and the CBX2 receiving a 4/5 rating. They noted that the CBX ZipCore “offers plenty of spin and control, with a nice balance of forgiveness” and praised the classic design. They also noted that the CBX2 “improves on the original CBX in terms of feel and sound at impact” and has a “versatile and forgiving design that should suit most players.”
Overall, expert reviews suggest that both the CBX ZipCore and CBX2 wedges are exceptional clubs that provide great performance on the course. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preferences and playing style.
Design Features
| Design Features | CBX ZipCore | CBX2 |
|---|---|---|
| Sole Grind | Heel, Toe, and Trailing Edge Relief | Full Sole |
| Face Milling | Tour Zip Grooves and Laser Milling | Tour Zip Grooves and Laser Milling |
| Hosel | Hollow-Cavity Design | Hollow-Cavity Design |
| Cavity Back | Yes | Yes |
| Club Head Material | Zinc | Zinc |
Loft Options
| Loft Options | CBX ZipCore | CBX2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pitching Wedge | 46° | 46° |
| Gap Wedge | 50°, 52°, 54° | 48°, 50°, 52°, 54° |
| Sand Wedge | 56°, 58° | 56°, 58° |
| Lob Wedge | 60° | 60° |
Performance Features
| Performance Features | CBX ZipCore | CBX2 |
|---|---|---|
| Spin Control | High | Very High |
| Forgiveness | Moderate | High |
| Feel | Soft | Softer |
| Launch | Mid | Mid-High |
| Shot Stopping Control | Good | Excellent |
Price
| Price | CBX ZipCore | CBX2 |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $149.99 | $179.99 |
| Retail Price | $129.99 | $159.99 |
| Pre-Owned Price | $85-$100 | $125-$150 |
Availability
| Availability | CBX ZipCore | CBX2 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | August 2020 | August 2021 |
| New Club Availability | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-Owned Club Availability | Yes | Limited Availability |
To summarize the comparison, the CBX ZipCore and CBX2 are both cavity back wedges with hollow-cavity hosels and Tour Zip Grooves and Laser Milling on the face. However, the CBX2 features a full sole grind compared to the CBX ZipCore’s heel, toe, and trailing edge relief. The CBX2 also offers a wider range of loft options for gap wedges compared to the CBX ZipCore. In terms of performance features, the CBX2 offers higher spin control, higher forgiveness, softer feel, and better shot-stopping control compared to the CBX ZipCore. However, the CBX ZipCore offers a mid-launch trajectory, while the CBX2 offers a mid-high launch trajectory. The CBX2 is also priced higher than the CBX ZipCore, with both new and pre-owned club availability being more limited due to its recent release.
Conclusion
Both the CBX ZipCore and CBX2 wedges are exceptional clubs that offer great performance on the course. The ZipCore is designed to provide maximum spin and control, while the CBX2 is designed to be more forgiving and versatile. Ultimately, the best wedge for you will depend on your individual preferences and playing style. We recommend trying out both models to see which one feels more comfortable and suits your game best.
