HIO Fitting experts explain how the right wedge setup enhances spin, control, and consistency around the greens.
Wedges are among the most frequently used clubs in a golfer’s bag, yet many players tend to neglect them. They play a crucial role in key shots during a round: out of bunkers, on approaches from 60–80 meters, or in delicate shots around the green. In our daily fitting work at HIO, we often encounter the same issues: ill-fitting lofts and sole grinds, poorly composed sets, or heavily worn grooves. Our experience shows that the right wedge setup can significantly improve consistency, spin, and control in short game shots. Therefore, it’s worth taking a closer look at these scoring clubs.
HIO Guide: When Full-Face Grooves Make a Difference
Many golfers intentionally open the clubface on bunker or lob shots, causing the impact point to shift toward the clubhead’s toe. Traditional wedges often lack grooves in this area, which can lead to noticeable spin loss and reduced control. Full-face wedges, in contrast, feature grooves across the entire face, providing greater forgiveness, especially on open-faced shots.
(Photo: HIO Fitting)
Grind and Sole Width for Better Turf Interaction
The sole of a wedge largely determines how the club interacts with the ground. A wider sole can offer increased stability and forgiveness on soft turf or in bunkers while not restricting the ability to open the clubface. Modern wedge designs combine wide soles with targeted heel relief, allowing golfers to easily perform open-faced shots, low chips, or high flop shots, even under challenging course conditions.
Loft Management: Often One 56° Wedge is Enough
Many amateurs carry both a 56° and a 60° wedge, but this is often unnecessary. A well-fitted 56° wedge, combined with the ability to open the face, can produce similar height and spin as a 60° wedge, while offering greater control and consistency. This frees up space in the bag for an extra wood or a mini driver.
Higher Center of Gravity for More Spin
Compared to irons or drivers, wedges should have a higher center of gravity (CG). A higher CG promotes a flatter but spin-rich trajectory, resulting in better control when landing and stopping the ball on the green—key for approach shots from medium and short distances.
Gapping: Consistent Distance Gaps for Clear Club Choices
An effective wedge setup works best when distance gaps between clubs are consistent. Too large or too small gaps can create uncertainty and complicate club selection. Gapping is often underestimated,