Experts from HIO Fitting explain how the right wedge setup provides more spin, control, and consistency in the short game.
Wedges are among the most frequently used clubs in a golf bag. Yet, many golfers tend to neglect them, even though they determine some of the most critical shots during a round: from bunkers, approach shots from 60–80 meters, or delicate play around the green. In our fitting routine at HIO, we regularly encounter recurring issues: unsuitable lofts and sole grinds, improperly assembled sets, or significantly worn grooves. Our experience shows that the right wedge setup can significantly enhance consistency, spin, and control in the short game. Therefore, a closer look at these scoring clubs is worthwhile.
HIO Guide: When Full-Face Grooves Really Make Sense
Many golfers deliberately open the clubface on bunker or lob shots, causing the contact point to often move toward the toe. Traditional wedges often lack grooves in this area, leading to noticeable spin loss and less control. Full-face wedges, however, have grooves across the entire face, providing much more forgiveness, especially on open-faced shots.
Grind and Sole Width for Improved Turf Interaction
The sole of a wedge largely determines how the club interacts with the ground. A wider sole can offer more stability and forgiveness, especially on soft turf or in bunkers. However, it is essential that it does not limit the ability to open the clubface. Modern wedge designs therefore combine wider soles with targeted heel relief, allowing players to perform open-faced shots, shallow chips, or high flop shots effortlessly—even under challenging course conditions.
Loft Management: Often a 56° Wedge Is Enough
Many amateurs carry both a 56° and a 60° wedge. In practice, this is usually unnecessary. A well-adjusted 56° wedge can be versatile by opening the clubface, producing similar trajectory and spin as a 60° wedge—with much better control and consistency. The saved space in the bag can then be used more effectively, for example, by adding an extra wood or a mini-driver.
Higher Center of Gravity for More Spin
Compared to irons or drivers, wedges typically have a higher center of gravity. This promotes a flatter but more spin-rich ball flight. The result is greater control when landing and stopping the ball on the green—a crucial factor for approach shots from medium and short distances.
Gapping – Even Distances for Clear Decisions
A coherent wedge setup only works optimally when the distances between clubs are sensibly spaced. Too large or too small gaps cause uncertainty and complicate club selection. Gapping is often underestimated with wedges. Even small loft differences can result in significant distance variations. In many cases, adjusting individual clubs by 1–2° to create even gaps is worthwhile. A professional gapping session with subsequent club bending is the best approach.
Gap Wedge: Wedge Model or Iron?
When it comes to the gap wedge (usually 48–50°), many players automatically choose a classic wedge. However, an iron in the corresponding loft can often be the better choice. Irons are generally more forgiving and better matched in