We tested 26 wedges in 2024 as part of our Best Golf Wedges testing. We analyze their performance in accuracy, consistency and spin. The PING S159 is the best overall wedge and the Vice Golf VGW01 is the worst. If you think it may be time to upgrade your wedge, it’s worth looking at the differences between the first and the worst and understanding where your money is best invested.
Spin
If you are buying a new wedge, spin needs to be a top priority. The clear distinction between good and bad wedges is seen by looking at spin rates in wet and dry conditions. Wedges like the PING S159 can retain spin and launch even when wet.
We looked at full-swing spin, 50-yard dry spin, 50-yard wet spin and dry versus wet spin retention. In 2024, the PING S159 was the best overall wedge for spin. The PING actually produces more spin when moisture is present. If you play in a variety of conditions, you’ll want the PING.
The Vice’s spin performance was second-last in the test. It struggled to produce the same levels of spin in wet and dry conditions.
Accuracy
Accuracy is how close you can hit your wedge to your intended target. For our wedge testing, we use Strokes Gained as the metric to measure golf wedge accuracy. The PING S159 took fifth place overall for accuracy; the Vice VGW01 took 25th.
Your wedge is a scoring club so having an accurate wedge that gets you close to the target is worth it.
Consistency
In the wedge test, we measure consistency by determining how well a wedge produces tight carry distances and dispersion. The PING S159 is the third most consistent wedge in the test.
One tester described the PING wedge as “Familiar, comfortable, and solid performance across the board.” If you are a player who struggles with keeping your wedge game consistent, the PING’s technology and design should help.
The Vice Golf W01 finished 24th for consistency. It struggled to help golfers control distances on full-swing and shorter distance shots.
Price
The VGW01 takes the upper hand when it comes to price. It retails for $149 but is often on sale for less than $130. The PING S159 pretty consistently stays at $179 but the performance differences between these two wedges are likely worth that extra $30.
Bottom line
The PING S159’s performance speaks for itself. The only real reason not to choose the PING wedge would be if you dislike PING. Subjective appeal plays into the game of golf but performance should drive your purchasing decisions. The Vice Golf wedges are brand-new to the test in 2024 and it will be interesting to see how they rank in years to come.
PING S159 versus Vice Golf W01: Which is right for you?
Who’s it For?
✅ Someone looking for more spin. The best wedge for spin in 2024
✅ The golfer who values performance across the board. The PING S159 also did well with its accuracy and consistency.
Who’s it not for?
❌ Players who don’t like PING clubs.
Who’s it For?
✅ Someone on a budget. The Vice W01 is priced lower than the PING S159 and often goes on sale.
Who’s it not for?
❌ Golfers who need consistency and accuracy.
❌ Anyone who wants more spin from their wedges
FakeRichGuy
2 years ago
Yikes, Vice. Love the golf balls, but maybe this needs some more time in R&D.
I was excited about Vice getting into the club game. I’m disappointed that the price point didn’t follow the ball pricing and offering a true alternative at a much lower price.