Types of Golf Wedges

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Four types of wedges exist in the game of golf with each varying in loft. Pitching wedges, gap wedges, sand wedges, and lob wedges make up the wedge family. Each type of wedge will fulfill a specific role, while some wedges will take on several roles out on the course. Regardless of the types of wedges you select to use, make sure each club fits into the set you choose to play. This encompasses the length, swing-weight, bounce and shaft flex. It is estimated that 75% of your total golf strokes will come from within 125-yards, making wedge play extremely important. With that being said, the information below will focus on specific characteristics associated with each type of wedge. Hopefully this will help you determine what wedges to play, what each is used for and how they can help you score better on the course.

Wedge Name	Loft	Bounce	Length
Pitching Wedge (PW)	46°- 50° Common 48°	6°-8°	1/2″< 9-iron
Sand Wedge (SW)	55°-58° Common 56°	10° -14°	1/2″ < PW
Gap Wedge (GW, AW)	50°- 54° Common 52°	6°-8°	1/2″ < PW
Lob Wedge (LW)	60°- 65° Common 60°	6°-8°	= SW or 1/4″ < SW

Pitching Wedges

Pitching wedges are almost always included in a standard set of golf clubs (3 iron – PW). They vary in loft by manufacturer and model, but will usually be 48 degrees in loft. The pitching wedge is designed as an extension of the 9-iron in design. However, the pitching wedge will have an increased swing-weight and increased bounce angle in the sole.

Gap Wedges

As the name implies, gap wedges bridge the “gap” between the pitching wedge and sand wedge. With pitching wedge lofts being 47 degrees and sand wedge lofts being 56 degrees, a club needed to be created to split the 9 degree gap. This “gap” was created by the industry gradually reducing the lofts of irons over the years, mainly in effort to sell more clubs. Gap wedges are optional for most golfers since hybrids and lob wedges may prove much more useful during a round of golf. Since the U.S.G.A. only permits 14 clubs during play, each golfer should judge whether or not they truly need a gap wedge in their bag. Hitting a ¾ approach shot with a pitching wedge instead of using a gap wedge is difficult, but can be learned with practice.

Sand Wedges

While sand wedges are primarily known for their use out of the sand, they take on a variety of uses. Consequently, sand wedges should have at least 56 degrees of loft. The club was originally designed by Gene Sarazen who came up with the perfect loft for sand shots. While sand shots are generally tough for amateurs, professional golfers usually don’t have much of a problem with sand.

Lob Wedges

Lob wedges are most useful in situations involving obstacles between the golfer and the green. For some golfers this club can be a life saver, while for others it can cause even more problems. Since the bounce angles are around 7 degrees, the lob wedge is more difficult to hit. Known best for the “flop” shot, the lob-wedge club face can be opened to increase the loft. Higher lofted lob wedges also exist, but are very hard to hit and should be reserved for highly skilled golfers. High lofted lob wedges come in a 64 degree loft and are usually reserved for scratch golfers. These wedges hit the ball extremely high in the air in effort to drop the ball softly on the green with little or no roll. Well known golf professional Phil Mickelson is regarded as one of the best at executing the “flop” shot.

Wedges are known for their usefulness greenside, but are obviously used for approach shots as well. Because of the high loft and ability to spin the ball, wedges are known as “scoring” clubs. Spin and loft allow the ball to sit softly on the green, allowing golfers to attack the flagstick while avoiding obstacles. Wedges come in different finishes that can be used to reduce glare from the sun. Some players also believe in rusted wedges for extra spin producing grip.b Mid to high handicap golfers should focus on mastering the pitching wedge and sand wedges before adding lob and gap wedges.

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