Golf Wedge Fitting: Find Your Perfect Wedge Setup

Wedges are the scoring clubs in your bag, and having the right wedge setup can make a significant difference in your short game. Proper wedge fitting involves understanding loft gaps, bounce options, and grind selections to match your swing and course conditions.

Understanding Wedge Loft Gaps

The key to effective wedge play is having consistent distance gaps between your wedges. Most players benefit from 4-6 degree gaps between wedges to ensure full swing distances are evenly distributed.

Common Wedge Setups

3-Wedge Setup (Most Common):

• Pitching Wedge: 46-48° (Full shots 100-130 yards)
• Sand Wedge: 54-56° (Bunker shots, 80-100 yards)
• Lob Wedge: 58-60° (Short shots, high trajectory)

4-Wedge Setup (Advanced):

• Pitching Wedge: 46-48°
• Gap Wedge: 50-52° (90-110 yards)
• Sand Wedge: 54-56°
• Lob Wedge: 58-60°

Understanding Wedge Bounce

What is Bounce?

Bounce is the angle between the leading edge and the trailing edge of the wedge sole. It helps the club glide through sand and turf without digging too deeply.

Bounce Categories

Low Bounce (4-8 degrees):

• Best for: Firm conditions, tight lies, hard sand
• Benefit: Better for players with steep angles of attack
• Use: When you need maximum control and precision

Medium Bounce (10-14 degrees):

• Best for: Average conditions, most players
• Benefit: Versatile for various lies and conditions
• Use: Good all-around choice for most situations

High Bounce (15+ degrees):

• Best for: Soft conditions, fluffy sand, thick rough
• Benefit: Prevents digging, more forgiving
• Use: When you need maximum forgiveness

Wedge Grinds Explained

What are Grinds?

Grinds are modifications to the sole of the wedge that affect how the club interacts with the turf and sand. Different grinds offer different benefits for various playing styles.

Common Grind Types

Full Sole Grind:

• Wide, full sole from heel to toe
• Best for: Beginners, high bounce preferences
• Benefit: Maximum forgiveness and stability

M Grind (Vokey):

• Moderate heel and toe relief
• Best for: Versatile players, various conditions
• Benefit: Good for both square and open face shots

S Grind (Vokey):

• Straight leading edge, minimal relief
• Best for: Square face players, firm conditions
• Benefit: Consistent turf interaction

L Grind (Vokey):

• Low bounce with heel and toe relief
• Best for: Skilled players, firm conditions
• Benefit: Maximum versatility and control

Choosing Wedges by Course Conditions

Firm, Fast Conditions

For firm, fast courses, consider:

• Lower bounce wedges (6-10 degrees)
• Grinds with heel and toe relief
• Thinner soles for better turf interaction

Soft, Wet Conditions

For soft, wet conditions, consider:

• Higher bounce wedges (12-16 degrees)
• Full sole grinds
• Wider soles for better support

Mixed Conditions

For courses with varied conditions, consider:

• Medium bounce wedges (10-14 degrees)
• Versatile grinds like M or S grind
• Multiple wedges with different bounce options

Wedge Fitting Process

Step 1: Assess Your Game

Consider your typical course conditions, playing style, and current wedge performance. Identify any gaps in your short game that need to be addressed.

Step 2: Test Different Options

Try different loft combinations, bounce options, and grinds to see what works best for your swing and typical playing conditions.

Step 3: Consider Your Swing

Your angle of attack and swing style should influence your wedge selection:

• Steep Swing: Higher bounce, full sole
• Shallow Swing: Lower bounce, more relief
• Square Face Player: S grind, medium bounce
• Open Face Player: M or L grind, lower bounce

Wedge Maintenance

Proper wedge maintenance is essential for consistent performance:

• Clean grooves regularly for maximum spin
• Check loft and lie angles annually
• Replace wedges when grooves wear down
• Consider regrooving for older wedges