Which wedges do you need? – Gapping, bounce & grinds explained simply
The right wedges save strokes around the green. Crucial factors are sensible loft gapping , the right bounce relative to the ground and angle of attack, and a grind that suits your swing style. Here you'll find clear decision-making tools – plus direct links to used wedges and wedge fitting .
View used wedges. Book a fitting at nextclubs. Information about grips. More about shafts.
The 4 types of wedges – short & sweet
| Wedge | Typical task | Typical loft range* |
|---|---|---|
| Pitching Wedge (PW) | Follows the iron set; full hits, medium distances | ≈ 43°–46° (depending on model) |
| Gap/Approach Wedge (GW/AW) | Close the gap between PW and SW; controlled full/three-quarter strokes | ≈ 48°–52° |
| Sand Wedge (SW) | Bunkers, rough excursions, pitch/chip with ground contact | ≈ 54°–56° |
| Lob Wedge (LW) | High, short flights with a quick stop; special strokes | ≈ 58°–60° |
*Loft spans are guidelines; always decide in conjunction with your PW loft and your distances.
Meaningful loft gapping in 3 steps
- PW as an anchor: Check the loft of your PW and the typical driving distance.
- Plan the distances: The goal is to achieve consistent distance increments (often 4–6° loft spacing between the wedges).
- Practice it out: Think about three-quarter strokes and chips – not just full strokes. Fine-tuning during fitting .
Bounce & Grinds – how to choose correctly
- Soft ground / steep angle of attack: tends to result in more bounce & stable grind – protects against digging in.
- Hard ground / shallow angle of attack: tends to result in less bounce and more versatile grind – more control of the edge position.
- Consider your playing style: Do you prefer an opening clubface (flop/slide)? → Try a grind with more heel/toe relief.
How many wedges make sense?
| profile | Recommended wedges (example) | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Simple & clear | PW + SW | Few options, clear decisions; add GW/LW later. |
| All-round (3 wedges) | PW + GW + SW | Clear distance markings; bunkers and fairway covered. |
| Fine-tuning (4 wedges) | PW + GW + SW + LW | Maximum proximity to the flag through finer gaps and special shots. |
Don't forget the handles and shafts!
Grip condition and shaft profile influence feel, contact and length control – especially during partial turns.
More about handles More about shafts
Used items selection – browse now
Go directly to the wedges or to the complete overview & categories:
Should I dispose of my old wedges?
Purchase: Request an individual offer. Optional: Check before upgrade.