The 5 Types Of Golf Wedges (And When To Use Them)
Hey there! If you’re like me and enjoy playing golf, you know how important it is to have the right equipment in your bag. One key component that often gets overlooked is the golf wedge.
In this article, I’m going to break down the five types of golf wedges and when to use them. From the versatile pitching wedge to the specialized lob wedge, we’ll explore how each one can improve your game.
So, let’s dive in and find out which wedges are a must-have for your next round!
Key Takeaways
– The pitching wedge is a versatile club that can be used for 100-140 yard shots, chipping out from under trees, and bump and runs around the green.
– The gap wedge fills the distance gap between the pitching wedge and sand wedge, providing higher shots with more spin for better control on the green.
– The sand wedge is a highly versatile club that is recommended for beginners and high handicappers. It is suitable for bunker shots and chipping around the green.
– The lob wedge is recommended for better players who need to hit more complex shots. It is commonly used for shots from 60-90 yards, in bunkers, and for high chips around the green.
Pitching Wedge
I use my pitching wedge for 100-140 yard shots, chipping out from under trees, and bump and runs around the green. It’s a versatile club that helps me in various situations on the golf course.
When I’m in the fairway and need to hit a shot between 100-140 yards, my pitching wedge is my go-to club. It provides me with the right amount of loft and control to get the ball close to the pin.
Additionally, when I find myself in trouble, like under a tree, the pitching wedge allows me to chip out and get back into play. It’s also great for bump and runs around the green, where I can use the club to get the ball rolling along the ground and towards the hole.
Using my pitching wedge gives me a sense of belonging on the course, knowing that I have a reliable club for these specific shots.
Gap Wedge
The gap wedge fills the distance gap between the pitching wedge and sand wedge, providing a higher shot with more spin for better control on the green.
When I’m on the fairway and I need to hit a shot between 90-120 yards, the gap wedge is my go-to club. It allows me to get the ball up in the air quickly and land it softly on the green. The extra loft and spin give me the confidence to attack pins and get closer to the hole.
When I’m around the green and I need to execute a bump and run shot, the gap wedge is also a great option. It helps me navigate tricky lies and get the ball rolling smoothly towards the hole.
With the gap wedge in my bag, I feel like I have a reliable tool to tackle those in-between distances and finesse shots around the green.
Sand Wedge
Sand wedges are highly versatile and commonly used in various situations on the golf course. They have a loft range of 54 to 56 degrees and an average distance of 88 yards. This wedge is recommended for beginners and high handicappers due to its ability to provide more spin and help the ball stop quickly on the green. It is suitable for 70-110 yard shots from the fairway and ideal for bunker shots and chipping around the green. The sand wedge is designed to help golfers escape from bunkers, with its higher loft angle and bounce preventing it from digging too deep into the sand. It can also be used for chipping around the green, making it a valuable tool for golfers in various situations.
| Sand Wedge |
|---|
| Loft Range: 54-56 degrees |
| Average Distance: 88 yards |
| Suitable for: 70-110 yard shots from the fairway |
| Ideal for: Bunker shots, chipping around the green |
| Special Features: Provides more spin, helps the ball stop quickly on the green |
Lob Wedge
Lob wedges, with their high loft of 58 or 60 degrees, are recommended for better players who need to hit more complex shots. These shots can be tricky, but using a lob wedge gives me the confidence to tackle them.
With its high loft, the lob wedge allows me to hit the ball high in the air and stop it quickly on the green. It’s perfect for those situations when there’s not much green to work with and I need the ball to stop fast.
I also rely on my lob wedge in bunkers, where I can use its loft to get the ball out of the sand and onto the green in one shot.
Whether it’s hitting high chips, flop shots, or clearing obstacles, the lob wedge is my go-to club for those delicate shots around the green.
Chipper Wedge
When using a chipper wedge, I find that it allows for closer contact with the ball, similar to a putter. It’s like having a mini putter in my bag specifically designed for those short shots around the green.
The chipper wedge has a loft of around 38-39 degrees, which is similar to a 9 iron. It’s shorter in length, approximately 35 inches, which makes it easier to control and maneuver.
I love using the chipper wedge when there are no obstacles in front of me, like hitting chips less than 40 yards. It gives me the confidence to get the ball close to the hole and save strokes.
Plus, it’s a great addition to my wedge collection and makes me feel like a part of the golfing community.
