50 Words or Less
The TaylorMade Milled Grind HI-TOE wedge is an unusual looking wedge with solid performance.
Introduction
Wedges aren’t usually the hottest product category, but they were having their moment at the 2018 PGA Show. One of the big reasons was the latest from TaylorMade, the Milled Grind HI-TOE wedge. Equipment geeks had been seeing it in the bags of pros like Rory and DJ and dying to get a first hand look. In this review, we’ll discuss whether this is a good option for the everyday golfer or if it’s best left to the top players.
Looks
The Milled Grind HI-TOE is one of the most distinctive looking wedges available. In the bag, the copper finish and hollowed-out parts of the sole catch your eye.
When you set it down, you see something unique: grooves that run all the way from heel to toe. The shape is defined by the namesake feature, the HI-TOE, which creates an extra large face. You’ll also notice a very round toe and leading edge, two features that make it easier to lay the face wide open for creative shots around the green.
Sound & Feel
While the look of the HI-TOE is unusual, the feel is rather ordinary. It’s neither too soft nor too firm. Impact creates a robust “click” when the ball is hit well, a duller sound when it’s mishit.
Performance
Though originally released as a specialty wedge in only higher lofts, TaylorMade has expanded the HI-TOE offerings to lofts from 50 to 64 degrees. TM also released more sole designs. In the low lofted wedges – 50, 52, 54 – TaylorMade offers the Standard Sole, optimized for full swings in normal or soft conditions.
The other two sole offerings are the 4-Way Sole and the ATV Grind. The 4-Way Sole is available in the 56, 58, and 60 degree wedges and features relief in the trailing edge and heel. In the 58, 60, and 64 degree wedges, players can opt for the ATV Grind which has a V-shaped leading edge and a channel cut out of the mid-sole.
Regardless of the grind, I found that the weight that was milled out of the lower section of the head made the HI-TOE a surprisingly strong performer on full swings. This really stands out at the higher lofts where shots still retain a penetrating trajectory.
Of course, the primary appeal of the HI-TOE is its versatility and increased area for hitting open-faced shots. I did find the full-face grooves oddly comforting when laying the face wide open. There’s also little question that the additional area in the high toe can come in handy when dealing with unpredictable lies.
Conclusion
Even if you don’t consider yourself a short game artist, the TaylorMade HI-TOE wedges deserve serious consideration. Though the look is unorthodox, the performance is strong and the added sole choices make it even more appealing.
TaylorMade Milled Grind HI-TOE Wedge Price & Specs
Matt Saternus
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100% knock-off of the Callaway PM (Phil M) Grind wedge which has been on the market for 3 years! Plus it costs $40 more! Do I want a generic knock-off wedge, or the Real Deal designed by Phil Mickelson and Roger Cleveland. Pretty Sad, TM!
These wedges do not maintain a good looking appearance for very long. Saw some last fall at a demo day that were a month old and they looked two years, of hard use, old. Not for this kind of money. Disappointed in these.
How do they perform in bunker?
Jimmy,
They’re fine in a bunker. This isn’t an easy-out sole like the Smart Sole from Cleveland, but it performs well.
Best,
Matt
How was the performance regarding checkup and spin on your full shots. Maybe compared to Cleveland Rotex face, Callaway MD4, Ping Glide, etc with similar loft/clubs you may have tested? thanks
The spin was comparable to other high quality wedges. Didn’t stand out as being particularly high or low.
-Matt
Trying to decide between the ATV or the 4 camber. Which do you think is better for a high scorer?
Gary,
I don’t think there’s a blanket recommendation for high handicappers; it’s all about fitting the sole to your swing.
Best,
Matt
What type of swing would benefit from the ATV grind vs their standard sole? Thanks!
Eric,
It’s been a little while, but my recollection is that the standard sole is a bit fuller and better for steeper swings or softer turf.
Best,
Matt
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How would you compare the vokey sm8 to this? Specially in the lower lofts? I am search for a new gap wedge
Cheers,
Oli
Oli,
I haven’t tested the Vokey SM8, so I can’t offer a comparison.
Best,
Matt
I cannot decide on whether to get the ATV or 4 way camber. You cannot test out wedges at my golf store so could you give me a summary each wedges pros and cons please?
Thanks,
Sandro
Sandro,
It’s been almost a year since I tested these, so recollection on the differences isn’t crystal clear. I recall that both are pretty versatile.
Best,
Matt