Wedges are essential golf clubs designed for precision and shorter shots, critical for various scenarios on the course. These include approach shots to the green, delicate chip shots around the green, escaping bunkers, executing pitch shots, and performing high, soft lob shots. The primary differentiator between wedge types is their loft, measured in degrees, with each loft angle engineered for specific purposes. Grasping the variations in wedge types and their respective lofts is key to selecting the optimal club for any situation you might encounter during a round of golf.
Pitching Wedge (PW)
| Pitching wedges often represent the highest lofted club within standard modern iron sets. Typically, a pitching wedge loft ranges from 44 to 48 degrees. This wedge is primarily used for longer distance wedge shots aimed at reaching the green from a fair distance out. Beyond full shots, the pitching wedge is also versatile for executing shorter pitch and run shots around the green, offering a good balance of distance and roll. Shop all Pitching Wedges |
|---|
Sand Wedge (SW)
| The sand wedge boasts a higher loft than a pitching wedge, generally falling between 54 and 58 degrees. As its name implies, the sand wedge is specifically designed for playing shots from sand bunkers. A key feature of the sand wedge is its wider, more rounded sole. This design element allows the club to glide smoothly through the sand, preventing it from digging in and enabling the club to ‘bounce’ out of the sand. However, the sand wedge’s utility extends beyond bunkers. It can be effectively used for regular wedge shots from the fairway or rough, although the increased loft will result in shorter distances compared to a pitching wedge. This higher loft is beneficial for shots requiring a softer landing and less roll. Shop all Sand Wedges |
|---|
Alt text: Sand Wedge golf club head, showcasing its design for bunker escapes and short game shots.
Gap Wedge/Approach Wedge (GW/AW)
| Next in the sequence is the gap wedge, sometimes referred to as an approach wedge or utility wedge. The purpose of the gap wedge becomes clear when considering the loft differences between a pitching wedge (around 46 degrees) and a sand wedge (around 54 degrees). This gap in loft typically translates to a significant distance gap, potentially around 30 yards, between shots with these two clubs. The gap wedge is engineered to bridge this distance gap. As such, its loft is greater than a pitching wedge but less than a sand wedge. For instance, a 50-degree gap wedge would fit perfectly between a 46-degree pitching wedge and a 54-degree sand wedge. The term “gap” wedge is quite descriptive and serves as a helpful reminder of its primary function: filling the distance gap between other wedges. Shop all Gap / Approach Wedges |
|---|
Alt text: Gap Wedge golf club head, designed to fill the distance gap between pitching and sand wedges.
Lob Wedge (LW)
| The lob wedge is the highest lofted wedge available and typically the club with the most loft in a golfer’s bag. With lofts ranging from 58 to 62 degrees, lob wedges are designed for very short approach shots, particularly those requiring a high trajectory and minimal roll. The high loft of a lob wedge allows golfers to lift the ball quickly into the air so it lands softly and stops rapidly on the green. This makes it ideal for delicate shots over hazards or when the pin is located close to the edge of the green, demanding a quick stop. Shop all Lob Wedges |
|---|
Alt text: Lob Wedge golf club head, highlighting its high loft for soft, high-trajectory shots.
Essential Wedges for Beginners
While professional golfers may carry up to four different wedges to cover every conceivable shot scenario, beginners can manage effectively with just two. A recommended starting setup includes a pitching wedge (PW) for longer approach shots from around 100-120 yards and a more lofted sand wedge (SW) for shots closer to the green and for bunker play. Often, both the pitching wedge and sand wedge are included as part of a standard iron set, making them readily accessible to new golfers.
Which Wedge to Acquire First?
For beginners, building confidence in the short game is paramount. Therefore, the initial wedge to focus on should be one that inspires confidence for pitching and chipping, regardless of the specific loft. However, in terms of loft, a traditional sand wedge, typically in the 52-56 degree range, presents an excellent starting point. As previously mentioned, many iron sets include a sand wedge. If your set does not, investing in a dedicated sand wedge is a worthwhile consideration. Specialist wedges often incorporate advanced technology and bounce characteristics that can significantly improve consistency and performance in the short game.
Shop Wedges under £50
Understanding Specialist Wedges
The term “specialist wedge” refers to wedges that are designed independently and not as part of an iron set. These wedges are engineered specifically for short game performance, incorporating technology aimed at enhancing control over ball flight and spin around the green. Visually, specialist wedges often differ from set-included wedges, frequently featuring a bladed design rather than a cavity back.
Popular examples of specialist wedges include models from renowned brands like Titleist Vokey, Callaway Mack Daddy, and TaylorMade Milled Grind, each known for their advanced wedge technology.
Considering Chippers
For golfers struggling with short game confidence, particularly in chipping, a chipper can be a valuable tool. Chippers are sometimes referred to as “wedges,” but they function more like a lofted putter. Designed to sit upright like a putter, chippers allow golfers to use a putting stroke to propel the ball forward. This technique results in a low-running shot across the green, similar to a putt, offering enhanced control and consistency for some players.
In summary, pitching wedges are for longer wedge shots, sand wedges are crucial for bunkers and shorter shots requiring less roll (typically around 54-58 degrees), gap wedges bridge the distance gap between PW and SW, and lob wedges are for high, soft shots around the green. Exploring the best wedges for under £75 can be a great next step in improving your short game and lowering your scores.
