Hit the pin with the the right wedge
Your short game is just as important as your long game. And we’re here to help you find that perfect wedge so you never feel trapped in the bunker.
Want a quick overview of some basic (and important) golf club definitions before you work your way through wedges? Head over to our general Golf Clubs 101 Buying Guide and we’ll meet you back here when you’re ready.
Types and loft
There are four different types of wedges with four different lofts: pitching, approach (gap), sand, and lob.
A pitching wedge is typically included in almost every iron set. Pitching wedges have a loft of between 42-49 degrees, and can be used for full shots or chip shots.
An approach (gap) wedge has more loft than a pitching wedge (49-53 degrees) and has a bit shorter shaft length.
A sand wedge isn’t just for those sand traps. Its loft is between 54-58 degrees and has the versatility to be used in full, chip, or bunker shots.
A lob wedge’s loft is between 60-64 degrees and a go-to for competitive golfers because of its high loft that produces a lot of spin and excellent for short-sided shots.
Bounce
Bounce refers to the sole (bottom) of the club and how far the back end sits on the leading edge. It lets the player avoid digging the club into the turf during the swing.
There are three main types of bounce angles: low, mid, and high.
Low-bounce wedges have a 4-6 degree bounce angle. They’re best for golfers who tend to have a sweep-like swing or play in courses with coarse sand bunkers, or bunkers that have little sand in them.
Mid-bounce wedges have a 7-10 degree bounce angle. This is a wedge that can be played in a wide range of conditions, for golfers of all swing types.
High-bounce wedges have a greater-than 10 degree bounce angle. This wedge is a great option for players who tend to dig on impact and play in softer conditions, and where the bunkers have finer sand.
For high performance
Almost all wedge shafts are made out of steel, unless they come as part of a graphite set.
A majority of steel-shafted wedges come in a standard wedge flex. This means they’re a bit stiffer than your irons. That’s because it’s important to control the flight of your ball and spin, which can all be achieved with a shaft that doesn’t have too much flex or bend.
Finding your edge with a wedge
Narrow your foundation
- Control is the key with a wedge, and you can start that from the spikes up. Take a much more narrow stance than normal, weight centered over both feet. Some golfers angle their feet slightly toward their target.
Keep your swing smooth and tight
- With wrists slightly cocked and an address point where your hands are just ahead of the ball, focus on stopping your backswing at 3/4 and accelerating through the ball to generate backspin. If you’re coming out of a bunker with a sand wedge, visualizing sand splashing can help make the right kind of contact.
