I carry a 60° wedge. I made the decision years ago to remove my 5 wood and replace it with a lob wedge. I feel that my wedge play is more important than the distance I gain from the wood. It took a bit of time to learn how to properly use a lob wedge, but I think I have a pretty good grasp on how and when to use it. To be fair to you the reader, this was a difficult club to learn how to use and I use it sparingly. There are several times a round where a lob wedge does come in handy and fortunately I took the time to hone its use. Does that mean that the 60° wedge is for everyone…..that is a personal decision.

Using a lob wedge can be daunting. According to Dave Pelz, it should not be if we employ the proper technique. By using Pelz’s technique, the 60° has limited uses until you master the confidence needed to swing away with this club. Personally, I do not use my lob wedge outside of 20 yards from the green. I know other players who use it from farther out, but that is not a skill I have developed after all these years. Anyway, here is what Pelz describes as the process of hitting a lob wedge.

One point the Pelz left out in the video is keeping our head as still as possible during contact. I found that by moving my head, even slightly, contact with the ball becomes suspect.

Additionally, choosing the proper bounce for this club is very important. I use an 8° bounce on all my wedges because it is the most universal for my game. Depending on the course conditions you usually play, you might need something different.

Using a 60° wedge can have great benefits to your short game. The trick is to practice, practice, and practice in order to master this club. The choice is yours whether to take on the challenge of using this club and if you do, you might be surprised at its benefits.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!