Golf Wedge Differences: The Secrets of Wedge Setup
Wedges are the most lofted of all golf clubs which gives them a short but high ball flight. Used for a range of shots between 10 yards right up to 100+ yards – wedges are very versatile golf clubs. In this article we delve into the different types of wedges: pitching wedge (PW), gap wedge (GW), sand wedge (SW), lob wedge (LW) and the less common approach wedge (AW).
Understanding Golf Wedges and Their Role
Each of these wedges are designed to fill a ‘distance gap’, if each of these wedges is hit with a full swing their should be a fairly consistent distance gap between each wedge. They achieve this by having slight loft increments which affects how far the ball travels forwards. Let’s break down each type of wedge, the types of distances they are used for and whether you should have one in your golf bag.
Pitching Wedge (PW)
A pitching wedge is next in line after a 9 iron and is included in a set irons. A pitching wedge is extremely versatile, a full swing of this club can result in a 100+ yard shot. Golfers can use the pitching wedge for chip shots from 40 yards out or ‘bump and run’ chip shots from the very edge of the green. Players often rely on the pitching wedge as one of the most commonly used golf clubs in their bag – because they can employ it anywhere within 120 yards of the hole. Pitching wedge loft is between 42° and 48°, this will usually correspond to the loft of the irons in the set and whether they are at the upper or lower end of the loft range for each club.
Approach Wedge (AW)
Approach wedges give you more height than a pitching wedge and a little less distance on full shots. These are the least common type of wedge, they are typically only used by manufacturers if their pitching wedge is a low loft (42°). This loft spacing creates a distance gap between the pitching wedge and gap wedge. Approach wedge loft is typically between 46° and 50°.
Gap Wedge (GP)
Gap wedges fill a distance and loft gap that exists between a pitching wedge and a sand wedge. When pitching wedges and sand wedges are hit with a full swing there is a noticeable distance gap between the two clubs. The gap wedge slides right in between the two. A full swing pitching wedge distance might be 100 yards and a full swing sand wedge might be 70 yards – the gap wedge lands right in the middle. The gap wedge is ideal for golfers who struggle to hit clubs softer with accuracy and conviction. A gap wedge usually sits between 50° and 54° loft degrees.
Sand Wedge (SW)
Sand wedges achieve height quickly – getting you out of sand traps and over obstacles. Backspin is high – helping the golf ball stop quickly on the green. The sand wedge was traditionally the highest loft club available, making it the go-to option for bunker shots. Most golfers who use just a two wedge setup use a pitching wedge and sand wedge. Sand wedge loft ranges between 54° and 58°.
Lob Wedge (LW)
Lob wedges have the highest of wedge loft degrees, this angle gets the most height and backspin. The impressive height over short distances gives lob wedge shots a sharp vertical descent which minimizes roll on the green. With their high loft you can generate a lot of backspin from both full shots and shorter chip shots from around the green. Lob wedges are particularly useful if you don’t have much green to work with or the green slopes away and you don’t want too much roll. Lob wedge lofts vary from 58° to 62°.
Common Wedge Combinations
When it comes to selecting the right wedge setup for your golf game you must consider your own personal distance spacing. Do you want a three wedge setup with bigger gaps, or a four wedge setup with smaller gaps and greater distance control?
Choosing wedges depends on what clubs you currently have in your bag. Or the irons you’re buying and their lofts will determine what wedges you should get. Or, you may just be looking for another club to perform a specific task, such as a lob wedge to hit the ball high as possible with maximum backspin.
You are allowed 14 clubs in your bag, setups include:
- 1w, 3w, 5w, 7w, 3i, 4i, 5i, 6i, 7i, 8i, 9i, PW, SW, putter
- 1w, 3w, 5w, 3i, 4i, 5i, 6i, 7i, 8i, 9i, PW, GW, SW, putter
- 1w, 3w, 5w, 4i, 5i, 6i, 7i, 8i, 9i, PW, GW, SW, LW, putter
- 1w, 3w, 5w, 4i, 5i, 6i, 7i, 8i, 9i, PW, AW, GW, SW, putter
Selecting A Wedge Setup For Your Game
A pitching wedge is a must have club no matter what you choose to do. If you are considering a two wedge setup, you should partner it with a sand wedge. If you run with just a pitching wedge and sand wedge you need to have the ability to hit accurate and varied shots. The benefit of a two wedge setup is that you have more options with your long irons, hybrids and fairway woods.
If you run with three wedges you can space your clubs effectively for a consistent and precise short game. Golfers should buy a 3-piece wedge set consisting of a 52° gap wedge (GW), 56° sand wedge (SW), and 60° lob wedge (LW). Including four wedges in your bag will increase your options and narrow your spacing. However, the more wedges you have, the more limited your long club options become. You must consider whether you want more long game options or short game options.
Other things to consider when selecting wedges, are wedge bounce and grinds. These two small but important factors make a big difference to how well you do or don’t hit your wedges. Getting yourself a great wedge setup with top wedges will elevate your game to new heights.