Wedge Loft and Bounce Guide: Pitching, Gap, Sand and Lob Wedges
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Wedges are the scoring clubs, and getting the lofts and bounce right makes a bigger difference than most golfers think. Here's how they fit together.
What lofts are the different wedges?
| Wedge | Typical loft | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Pitching wedge (PW) | 43 to 48 degrees | Full shots and long chips |
| Gap wedge (GW or AW) | 48 to 53 degrees | Filling the yardage gap between PW and SW |
| Sand wedge (SW) | 54 to 56 degrees | Bunkers, pitches and chips |
| Lob wedge (LW) | 58 to 62 degrees | High, soft shots around the green |
How should I space my wedge lofts?
Start with your pitching wedge loft (it's often printed on the club or listed by the maker) and add wedges about 4 to 6 degrees apart. For example: 46, 50, 54 and 58. Even gaps mean even distance gaps, so you're not stuck between clubs.
What is wedge bounce?
Bounce is the angle that keeps the sole from digging into the turf or sand. It's the second number on many wedges, like 56/12, where 56 is the loft and 12 is the bounce.
- Low bounce (4 to 6 degrees): firm turf, tight lies and a shallow swing.
- Mid bounce (7 to 10 degrees): the safest choice for most golfers and most conditions.
- High bounce (10 degrees and up): soft turf, fluffy sand and a steep swing that takes big divots.
What is a wedge grind?
A grind is how the sole is shaped. Different grinds let you open the face for flop shots or keep the sole stable on full swings. If you're not sure, a standard or mid-bounce grind is the easy pick.
Do wedge grooves wear out?
Yes. Grooves lose their sharp edges with use, which reduces spin, especially from the rough and on short shots. When buying a used wedge, look closely at the grooves in the photos. On our listings, the condition grade and the close-up photos of the face show you exactly how much wear there is.
Where can I find used wedges?
We carry used wedges from Titleist Vokey, Cleveland, Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping and more. Use the Loft filter to find the exact gap you need. Shop used golf wedges.