How to Choose the Right Loft and Bounce for Your Wedges?
The short game is very important for achieving accuracy in golf, and we must tell you, it's very difficult to achieve without good wedges that suit your style. We'll tell you how to choose the right loft and bounce for your wedges so you can improve distance and control on every shot.
What are loft and bounce in wedges and why do they matter?
What is the function of loft in wedges?
The loft (or angle of the wedge's face) determines the height and distance of shots. How does it affect this? Well, a wedge with a higher loft elevates the ball, generates more spin, and facilitates shots that stop quickly on the green. Conversely, a wedge with a lower loft produces a lower trajectory and better roll.
What is bounce and how does it affect the shot?
The bounce (or angle formed between the sole of the wedge and the ground when the club is in the striking position) prevents the toe of the wedge from digging into the turf or sand and allows for cleaner contact. What are the differences between a high and low bounce? A high bounce helps in soft turf conditions or bunkers, while a low bounce improves shots on hard ground or short grass.
Importance of properly combining loft and bounce
Beyond what each of them facilitates separately, what is really important is that you manage to combine them well because a balanced wedge will allow you to adapt the club to different situations: for example, in a shot from a bunker, a high loft combined with a high bounce can facilitate sliding, while in a shot on hard grass, a moderate loft with a low bounce will help you obtain greater control and precision.
How to choose the right loft for your game
Recommended loft according to the desired distance
If you want to get the ball up quickly for a short shot and stop it on the green, opt for a wedge with a higher loft. However, if you need more ball roll after landing, a lower loft is better.
Loft according to field type and conditions
On courses with long grass or windy conditions, a higher loft will allow you to lift the ball to avoid obstacles. On firm ground, a lower loft can provide a more penetrating shot with greater roll, better adapting to the environment and improving control.
Common mistakes when selecting the loft of your wedges
The most common mistake when choosing the loft of your wedges is doing so without first having a custom fitting, simply because without it, it's very difficult to choose a loft adapted to your needs and playing style.
How to choose the right bounce for your swing style and ground conditions
High Bounce vs. Low Bounce: Key Differences
A high bounce is the greatest angle between the sole and the ground, ideal for soft turf conditions, deep sand, or for players with a more vertical swing, who tend to hit steeper impacts. On the other hand, a low bounce is more suitable for hard ground conditions and players with a flat swing, allowing for more direct contact with the ground and greater control on shots with greater roll.
Which bounce is best depending on the terrain (hard, soft or sand)?
For courses with soft or sandy conditions, a high-bounce wedge will help prevent the club from digging in, allowing for a cleaner shot. On hard surfaces or short grass, a low-bounce wedge is preferable, as it offers more direct contact and promotes greater roll after impact. Here, our recommendation is to base your shot on the courses you frequent most.
How your swing style affects the bounce
Players who swing vertically, where the angle of attack is steep, will benefit from a high bounce to prevent the wedge toe from digging in. If your swing is flatter, a wedge with a low bounce will be best because it will better align with your angle of attack, allowing you to better control the ball's trajectory.
Frequently asked questions about choosing the right loft and bounce for your wedges
How many wedges should I have in my bag?
Between 3 and 4 if you want to cover a wide variety of shots and/or situations: a pitching wedge, a gap wedge, a sand wedge, and, in some cases, a lob wedge. However, the ideal setup depends largely on your playing style and the range of distances you typically face on the course.
Can the bounce be adjusted after purchase?
Yes, some wedges allow for minor bounce adjustments, but ideally, the wedge should fit you right from the start. And you can only achieve that by having a professional fitting beforehand.
When is it time to change the loft or bounce of my wedges?
As we always say, the best time to consider changing the loft or bounce of your wedges is when your shots have become unpredictable or if you've changed your playing technique. Even so, it's always best to get a fitting at least periodically.
At Handmade Custom Clubs we create custom wedges
At HCC we specialize in creating custom golf clubs and we understand that every player is unique. Our fitting is based on a detailed analysis of your swing, course conditions, and personal goals. With over 20 years of experience, we design custom wedges where every detail, from loft to bounce, is fine-tuned to maximize your short game performance.
We recommend that you visit our Online Golf Shop where you can customize every aspect of your future golf clubs with just a couple of clicks.
