Once golfers learn the basics of the swing, they usually become very interested in improving their game and lowering their score. One of the biggest keys to becoming a skillful golfer is learning the intricacies of the short game. Using the pitching wedge proficiently is a key to learning how to play when close to the greens.
Standard Pitching Wedge
The standard pitching wedge is used on shots that are typically between 90 and 140 yards away from the hole. The average loft of a pitching wedge is typically about 45 degrees. However, individual manufacturers may have their own specs and the loft can range from 43 to 47 degrees. To hit the pitching wedge well, you should hit down on the ball and get a full follow-through. Golfers should not slow their swings down on shorter shots because that leads to poor execution of the shot.
Gap Wedge
Golfers use a gap wedge when they are between 60 and 90 yards from the hole. A gap wedge hits the ball higher and lands it with more backspin than a standard pitching wedge. The gap wedge typically has a loft of 50 degrees and is designed to give the golfer greater accuracy. Gap wedges can range between 48 and 52 degrees, depending on the manufacturer.
Lob Wedge
The lob wedge has the most loft of any club in a golfer's bag. The lob wedge is designed for shots of 60 yards or less. This club was designed to execute the flop shot. This shot is a very short shot that typically goes high into the air, lands softly on the green, and stops or backs up to give the golfer a short putt. The lob wedge usually has a loft of about 60 degrees.
Considerations
The pitching wedge should be used on any approach shot to the green when you are facing a hazard of any kind. If you're facing a bunker near the green or water or trees guarding the green, you need to fly over the hazard to have a chance to get the ball near the hole. If you are playing on a hard and flat course that does not have a lot of hazards, you may be better off hitting a low chip shot toward the green. However, the presence of hazards makes the pitching wedge a vital tool on the golf course.
Expert Insight
According to Golf.com Top 100 teacher Ted Sheftic, the key to getting good results with your wedge is to use the same swing speed every time you hit your wedge. According to Sheftic, you can change the backswing and follow-through finish points depending on the distance but not the swing speed. For example, Sheftic says to imagine the position of the hands of a clock when you swing. When hitting a pitching wedge from 90 yards, you should bring the club back to 10 and finish at 12 to hit an accurate shot.
Member Comments