Taking delicate chip shots seems to be difficult for most mid-to-high handicaps. After all, many Southern California courses have tightly cropped grass around the green. I personally putt from anywhere possible, just to avoid skipping a wedge sole along the turf and thus blading the ball through the green. But that approach may change, now that Cleveland Golf’s brand-new Smart Sole 3 “C” chipper wedge ($130/graphite shaft, $120/steel) has hit the market. It’s designed specifically for golfers who struggle with short-game shots.

With 42 degrees of loft, the shorter 34-inch club has a new and wide three-tiered sole that induces smooth turf interaction and crisp, clean contact — regardless of how tight the lie is — and helps get shots airborne. Plus, its center of gravity is positioned to improve feel and consistency. The club also sits at a fairly upright angle, to let golfers be more comfortable standing over the ball. A matching 58-degree “S” sand wedge is also available, bearing redistributed weight from the hosel towards the toe, which aims to tighten shot dispersion. As Cleveland is best-known for its wedges with TOUR pros and amateurs alike, these are certainly worth a try if your short game needs some help.

Veteran golf writer Scott Kramer has covered the golf equipment market full-time since 1990. His career has spanned senior editor positions at both Golf Pro Magazine and GOLF Magazine. He now works on a freelance basis for many consumer and trade publications, including the SCGA’s FORE magazine.