As any avid golfer knows, having the right set of clubs can make all the difference on the course. One club that can make a significant impact on your game is the best gap wedge. Designed to fill the gap between a pitching wedge and a sand wedge, gap wedges can help you achieve more precise shots from mid-range distances.
When it comes to golf, pitching wedges with a 46º – 50º loft can hit the ball up to 120 yards. Sand wedges, however, have a loft of 54º – 58º, resulting in a shorter distance of about 100 yards. This creates a gap of approximately 20 yards, which can be filled by the best gap wedges.
Gap wedges typically have a loft of 50° to 54°, allowing golfers to hit the green from around 110 yards out. The 52 degree wedges are perfect for those in-between tricky approach shots that require a little more loft and control than your pitching wedge can provide, but not as much as your sand wedge.
Adding a 52 degree wedge to your bag is highly recommended for all golfers. So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, read on to learn more about gap wedges and how they can improve your golf game.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the best 52 degree wedges, including their worth, the most common degree, and whether or not pros use them. We will also provide tips on how far you can hit a gap wedge and whether or not you can use it in the sand.
Top 10 Best Gap Wedges In 2023
Now that we have a better understanding of gap wedges and what to look for when purchasing one, let’s take a look at some of the best 50 degree wedge options tried and tested by the experts that are brought to you.
1. Mizuno S23 Wedge
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Key Features
The Mizuno S23 Wedge is an outstanding addition to Mizuno’s lineup of high-quality golf clubs. With its soft, solid feel and excellent spin control, this wedge is a great option for players of all skill levels.
One of the standout features of the S23 is its precision-milled grooves, which provide exceptional spin and control on approach shots and around the green.
In addition to its grooves, the S23 gap wedge also offers three different grind options to suit a variety of swing types and course conditions.
The versatile grind options make this wedge a great choice for players who want a club that can adapt to different situations on the course. The S23 also has a sleek, modern design that will appeal to many players.
While the S23 is undeniably a premium product, it’s worth noting that the higher price point is reflective of the club’s excellent quality and craftsmanship. Players who are willing to invest in a top-of-the-line wedge will find that the S23 is a great choice.
One potential downside of the S23 gap wedge golf is that it offers a limited selection of sole options. While the three grind options are versatile, some players may prefer more customization in terms of sole shape and bounce.
Overall, the Mizuno S23 Wedge is an exceptional club that offers an excellent feel, precision, and versatility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the S23 golf gap wedge is definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a new wedge.
2. Titleist Vokey SM9 Wedge
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The Titleist Vokey SM9 Wedge is a top-performing gap wedge that is widely regarded as one of the best on the market. With its exceptional spin and control, the SM9 is a great choice for players who want to improve their short game.
One of the standout features of the SM9 gap wedge set is its wide range of loft and grind options, which allow players to choose the right combination for their swing and course conditions.
The Titleist gap wedge also boasts high-quality craftsmanship, which is evident in its precise grooves and classic design. While the higher price point may be a consideration for some players, it’s worth noting that the SM9 is a premium product that delivers excellent performance and durability.
The SM9’s classic design will also appeal to players who appreciate the look and feel of a traditional wedge.
However, it’s important to note that the SM9 48 degree gap wedge may not suit all players. Some players may find that the SM9’s high level of spin and control doesn’t suit their playing style, or that the wedge doesn’t offer enough forgiveness on off-centre hits.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the Titleist gap wedge is still widely regarded as one of the best wedges on the market and is definitely worth considering if you’re looking to improve your short game.
Overall, the Titleist Vokey SM9 Wedge is an outstanding wedge that delivers exceptional spin and control on approach shots and around the green.
3. Ping Glide 4.0 Wedge
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The Ping Glide 4.0 Wedge is a top-performing and best gap wedge that offers exceptional spin and control on approach shots and around the green.
One of the standout features of the 4.0 is its new grooves and precision-milled face, which provide more spin and control on shots.
This 52 degree wedge offers a wide range of loft and sole grind options, making it easy to find the right fit for your swing and playing conditions.
The Glide 4.0 Wedge also features a comfortable feel, thanks to its soft hydro pearl 2.0 finish. The finish also helps repel water and moisture, making it a great option for players who play in wet conditions.
The ping glide 4.0 is the best approach wedge with high-quality materials and construction, ensuring durability and longevity. However, the Ping Glide 4.0 best gap wedges does come with a higher price point compared to some other gap wedges for sale on the market.
Additionally, it does not offer as many customization options in terms of shafts or grips compared to some other wedges.
Overall, the Ping Glide 4.0 Wedge is a top-performing wedge that delivers improved spin and control, a comfortable feel, and a durable design. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options, it’s worth the investment for serious players who want to improve their short game.
4. Cleveland CBX 2 Full Face Wedge
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The Cleveland CBX 2 Full Face best gap wedge is an excellent best approach wedge choice for mid-to-high handicappers who are looking for a forgiving wedge that provides consistent spin and performance across the entire face.
The CBX 2 features full-face grooves, which provide excellent spin and control on shots, even on mishits. The wedge’s wide sole and perimeter weighting also makes it more forgiving on mishits, providing added confidence for players.
One of the standout features of the CBX 2 is its Gelback TPU Insert, which provides a soft and comfortable feel on shots. The wedge’s versatile design, with a range of loft and grind options, also makes it suitable for a variety of swing types and playing conditions.
Compared to some other gap wedge golf clubs, the CBX 2 does not offer as many customization options in terms of shafts or grips. Additionally, some better players may find that the CBX 2 lacks the feedback and feel of more traditional blade-style wedges.
Overall, the Cleveland CBX 2 Full Face Wedge is the best 50 degree wedge choice for mid-to-high handicappers who are looking to uplift their game with a forgiving wedge that provides consistent spin and performance across the entire face.
5. PXG Sugar Daddy II Wedge
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The PXG Sugar Daddy II Full Face best gap wedge is a premium wedge that offers exceptional performance and customization options.
The full-face milling of the wedge ensures maximum spin and control on all shots, making it a great option for players looking to improve their short game. The forged construction and CNC milling also provide a soft feel on shots, which can improve confidence and accuracy.
One of the standout features of the Sugar Daddy II is its unique design. The wedge’s head shape and sole design allow for versatility and playability from any lie, giving players added confidence on approach shots.
The Sugar Daddy II also offers a range of customization options, including loft, lie, and bounce, allowing players to tailor the wedge to their individual needs and preferences.
However, the PXG Sugar Daddy II Full Face Wedge does come with a few potential drawbacks. It is one of the most expensive wedges on the market, which may not be feasible for all players.
Additionally, PXG’s best 52 degree wedges are not as widely available as other brands, which may make it more difficult for players to try or purchase the Sugar Daddy II.
6. Mizuno T22 Wedge
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Key Features
The Mizuno T22 Wedge is the best 50 degree wedge that offers exceptional feel and control on shots. The Grain Flow Forged HD process used to create the club provides a soft and consistent feel on shots, which can improve confidence and accuracy around the greens.
Additionally, the Quad Cut Grooves increase spin and control on shots from all lies, making the T22 Wedge a great option for players looking to improve their short game.
The T22 Wedge also offers multiple sole grind options, which can improve playability from any lie. The versatile sole grind options allow players to tailor the wedge to their individual needs and preferences, making it a great option for players of all skill levels.
The wedge’s tour-inspired shaping and teardrop profile also provides a classic look and appeal to traditionalists. However, the Mizuno T22 best gap wedge does come with a few potential drawbacks.
Mizuno’s best 50 degree wedge clubs are not as widely available as other brands, which may make it more difficult for players to try or purchase the T22 Wedge. Additionally, the high price point may be a barrier for some players.
Overall, the Mizuno T22 Wedge is the best 52 degree wedge choice for players looking for a premium wedge that offers exceptional feel and control on shots.
7. Callaway Jaws Mack Daddy 5 Wedge
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The Callaway Jaws Mack Daddy 5 Wedge is a top-performing wedge that offers exceptional spin and control on shots from all lies.
The unique Jaws grooves and high-toe design increase spin and provide more stopping power on approach shots, making it a great option for players looking to improve their short game.
Additionally, this 48 degree best gap wedge offers multiple grind options to suit the needs of individual players and improve playability from any lie.
The Jaws Mack Daddy 5’s best gap wedge also has a forgiving design that makes it easier to hit shots from the sand and rough. The wide sole and forgiving design provides more confidence and accuracy on bunker shots and chips from the rough.
Additionally, this best approach wedge has a classic shape and finish that appeals to traditionalists, making it a great addition to any golfer’s bag. However, the Callaway Jaws Mack Daddy 5 Wedge does come with a few potential drawbacks.
The high price point may be a barrier for some players, especially those who are just starting out or on a tight budget. Additionally, while the wedge offers multiple grind options, some players may find that it lacks versatility compared to other wedges on the market.
Overall, the Callaway Jaws Mack Daddy 5’s best approach wedge is an excellent choice for players looking for a top-performing wedge that offers exceptional spin and control on shots from all lies.
While the high price point and limited versatility may be potential drawbacks, the Jaws grooves, high toe design, multiple grind options, forgiving design, and classic look and feel make it a great option for serious golfers looking to improve their short game.
8. Cleveland RTX 6 Zipcore Wedge
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The Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore best gap Wedge is a high-performance best gap wedge that offers improved spin control and consistency on all shots. The updated core design with a new heat treatment process enhances feel and feedback for better shot-making.
Additionally, the wedge offers multiple grind options to suit the needs of individual players and improve playability from any lie. The RTX 6 ZipCore Wedge is also durable and long-lasting, with high-quality materials and a design that withstands wear and tear over time.
The wedge’s new core design improves spin control and consistency on all shots, providing more confidence and accuracy on approach shots and around the green.
Additionally, the wedge’s multiple grind options make it easier to hit shots from a variety of lies, improving versatility and playability. However, the Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore is the best gap wedge which come with a few potential drawbacks.
The higher price point may be a barrier for some players, especially those who are just starting out or on a tight budget. Additionally, while the wedge offers multiple grind options, some players may find that it lacks versatility compared to other wedges on the market.
Overall, the Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore Wedge is a top-performing wedge that offers improved spin control, enhanced feel and feedback, multiple grind options, and durability.
9. Taylormade Milled Grind 3 Wedge
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The TaylorMade Milled Grind 3 Wedge is a high-performance best gap wedge that offers precise milling for consistent spin and flight on every shot.
The wedge’s multiple sole grind options make it easier to hit shots from a variety of lies, improving versatility and playability. Additionally, the new raw face design enhances the feel and feedback for better shot-making.
The Milled Grind 3 Wedge is also durable and long-lasting, with high-quality materials and a design that withstands wear and tear over time.
The precision milling of each wedge ensures consistent spin and flight, providing more confidence and accuracy on approach shots and around the green. Additionally, the wedge’s multiple sole grind options make it easier to hit shots from any lie, improving versatility and playability.
However, the TaylorMade Milled Grind 3 Wedge does come with a few potential drawbacks. The higher price point may be a barrier for some players, especially those who are just starting out or on a tight budget.
Additionally, while the wedge offers multiple sole grind options, some players may find that it lacks versatility compared to other wedges on the market.
Overall, the TaylorMade Milled Grind 3 Wedge is a top-performing wedge that offers precise milling, multiple sole grind options, improved feel and feedback, and durability.
10. Callaway Mack Daddy CB Wedge
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The Callaway Mack Daddy CB Wedge is a high-performance best gap wedge designed for forgiveness and playability.
The dual-axis, progressive groove technology provides more spin on shorter shots, and less spin on longer shots, allowing golfers to control their distance and spin more effectively.
The wide sole design also helps improve turf interaction and makes it easier to hit shots from any lie. Additionally, the Mack Daddy CB is available in a variety of sand wedge lofts and grinds to suit the needs of individual players.
This allows golfers to customize their wedge selection based on their swing type and course conditions. The wedge’s forgiving design and multiple options make it a great choice for golfers of all skill levels.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to the Mack Daddy CB Wedge. The dual-axis, progressive groove technology may result in less spin on longer shots, which may be a concern for some players.
Additionally, the wedge offers multiple loft and grind options, some players may find that it lacks versatility compared to other wedges on the market.
Overall, the Callaway Mack Daddy CB Wedge is a great option for golfers who are looking for a forgiving and easy-to-hit wedge. The dual-axis, progressive groove technology provides more spin on shorter shots, and the wide sole design improves turf interaction and playability.
Are Gap Wedges Worth It?
Gap wedges can be an excellent addition to any golfer’s bag, but are they worth the investment? The answer is yes if you’re looking to improve your game and lower your scores.
Additionally, gap wedges are incredibly versatile and can be used for various shots, including pitch shots, chip shots, and even full swings. They can also help you get out of difficult situations, such as when you need to clear a bunker but don’t have the distance for your sand wedge.
Overall, the best gap wedges are worth the investment if you’re looking to improve your short game and lower your scores. They can help you make those tricky approach shots and get you out of tough situations around the green, ultimately leading to better results on the course.
Gap Wedges Buying Guide – What To Consider When Buying A 52 Degree Wedge
Loft
Gap wedges typically have lofts between 50 and 54 degrees. Consider the loft of your other clubs and choose a gap wedge that will fill the yardage gap between your pitching wedge and sand wedges.
Bounce
The bounce angle of a wedge affects how it interacts with the turf. More bounce is better for soft turf, while less bounce is better for firm turf. Consider the turf conditions where you typically play and choose a bounce angle that matches.
Grind
The grind of a wedge refers to the shaping of the sole. Different grinds affect how the club performs in different situations, such as bunker shots or pitch shots. Consider the type of shots you want to use the gap wedge for and choose a grind that matches.
Material
Gap wedges are typically made of either steel or graphite. Steel is more durable and offers a better feel, while graphite is lighter and may be easier to swing for some players. Consider your personal preference and budget when choosing a material.
FAQS
What is the Most Common Gap Wedge Degree?
The most common gap wedge degree is 52 degrees. This degree is considered a standard gap wedge degree as it offers a good balance between loft and distance for most golfers. However, gap wedges can range from 48-54 degrees depending on the golfer’s individual needs and preferences.
Write Do Pros Use Gap Wedges?
Yes, professional golfers do use gap wedges between 50 and 54 degrees to fill the distance gap between their pitching wedge and sand wedge. In fact, gap wedges have become an important part of many professional golfers’ bags in recent years. Best gap wedges provide better control and precision on approach shots and around the green, which is essential for scoring low on the course.
How Far Do People Hit a Gap Wedge?
The distance people hit a gap wedge varies depending on their swing speed, technique, and other factors. On average, a golfer can expect to hit a gap wedge between 80 and 110 yards. However, some golfers may hit their gap wedge closer to 120 yards or farther, while others may only hit it around 70 yards. It ultimately comes down to individual factors and varies from golfer to golfer.
Can I Use a Gap Wedge in the Sand?
While gap wedges are primarily designed for shots that require more loft than a pitching wedge but less than a sand wedge, they can be used in the sand.
However, due to their lower bounce angle and less loft than a sand wedge, they may not be as effective in getting the ball out of the sand. It’s best to use a sand wedge or a lob wedge for bunker shots, as they have higher bounce angles and more loft to help the golf balls escape the sand.
