Review: Cleveland CBX4 ZipCore wedges

If there’s a company that knows how to make a wedge it’s Cleveland. With success of their CBX wedges and Zip Core technology we now have the CBX 4 Zipcore wedge which has the highest MOI in a CBX wedge. 

The First Look

At first glance, just like any Cleveland wedge, they look great but they have more of the traditional groove shape instead of the full face of grooves like what we have seen in the RTX range. But as a cavity wedge, it looks great and looks even better in the bag. 

The CBX4 wedges feature the popular ZipCore technology. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The sole of the CBX4 wedges. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The groove layout of the CBX4 wedges. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The CBX4 ZipCore wedges will be popular with mid-handicappers. (Credit: Cleveland Golf) |

The CBX4 wedges feature the popular ZipCore technology. (Credit: Cleveland Golf)

The sole of the CBX4 wedges. (Credit: Cleveland Golf)

The groove layout of the CBX4 wedges. (Credit: Cleveland Golf)

The CBX4 ZipCore wedges will be popular with mid-handicappers. (Credit: Cleveland Golf)

The Tech

When it comes to the technology there is more to this cavity back design than meets the eye and if you unfamiliar what Zipcore even means then let’s dive in. The ZipCore technology allows the designers to reposition mass across the toe and high/low on the face. The ZipCore tech also increases MOI by aligning the Center of Gravity right where the club strikes the ball. What you get as a result of this is a 7% increase in heel/toe MOI and 5.8% increase in high/how MOI compared to previous generations – combining for the highest total MOI in a CBX Wedge.

What sits in the cavity is a Gelback TPU insert which absorbs impact vibrations, which is what give you that great feel even on those mishits. When it comes to spin, the HydraZip and UltiZip work together to maximise spin from any lie and in any conditions. The differ however with the HydraZip using a unique laser line and blast treatment to boost friction off the face, while the UltiZip grooves cut through the the toughest of lies with ease.

You also have three sole grinds to choose from for your style of play.. All three sole grinds feature a new leading-edge bounce chamfer to promote smoother turf interaction from various greenside attack angles.

“If you’re a mid-to-high handicapper looking for a premium Wedge you can feel confident with, these Wedges are the answer. The CBX 4 ZipCore is the total package, packed with performance features geared towards real golfers looking to improve their short game without limitations.”

– Joe Miller (product manager, Cleveland Golf Europe)

The bunkered Verdict

If you mishit your wedges off the toe or heel don’t worry the ZipCore tech makes it feel great with great control as well.

Now the MOI in the wedges is very impressive and the feel is superb but the spin and control form those partial shots around the greens are very impressive.

The one thing i liked was the consistency in feel and sound even when I caught it slighting towards the toe and heel.

The versatility when opening the face is great as well as it seems effortless to get the ball in the air. If your a mid to high handicapper who needs help getting the ball in the air with more stability and forgiveness, then this traditional-looking shape good be a great choice for you.

The Details

RRP: £159 (steel shafts); £169 (graphite shafts)
Available: February 10, 2024

More Cleveland wedges

• Cleveland RTX Full-Face 2 wedges review

• Cleveland Smart Sole Full-Face wedges review

The Cleveland CBX 4 ZipCore wedges will feature in our Best Wedges 2024 round-up later in the year. Keep an eye on the bunkered YouTube channel for more!