All golfers strive to have a great short game and one of the key elements to this is being able to hit great wedge shots.
That is exactly why in this guide we are going to discuss in detail a lob wedge vs sand wedge, what the key differences are between the two golf wedges and when each club should be used.
By following our comprehensive guide you will be able to shave shots off your short game in no time by using the best wedge at the right time.
See Also: The Best Wedges For Backspin
Comparison And Differences Between The Two wedges
When it comes to a sand wedge vs lob wedge, the biggest difference between the two clubs is the wedge loft. A sand wedge will typically be between 52 and 57 degrees and is best for bunker shots and high pitch shots. Alternatively a lob wedge will typically be 58 to 64 degrees and be best for short approach shots and shots over hazards.
What is a Lob Wedge?
The lob wedge is great for golfers who want increased loft in and around the green and want to try and generate as much backspin as possible as this club will help with that. It can also be a great choice of club for beginners to learn how to add backspin to a golf ball.
What creates this extra ‘lob’ effect from the club is the loft which is around 60 degrees. As the ball will travel higher in the air it means that when it lands on the green it will roll less than with a long iron or even shorter degree wedge. Additionally, the increased height that a lob wedge generates means it is ideal when closer to the green and especially in instances where there is a hazard obstructing the path. By learning how to play with a lob wedge you can get the ball close to hole more often.
When Should You Use A Lob Wedge?
The best time to use a lob wedge is when you are close to the green and require some loft for your shot so that it lands softly. Alternatively, the lob wedge should be used if you are required to get over a hazard that requires plenty of height for your shot such as a pitch shot.
Having a great lob wedge is essential if you are looking to become more precise with your short game.
What is a Sand Wedge?
The sand wedge was made popular by golf legend Gene Sarazen. In 1932 he won the US and British Open with a new club that he designed specifically for himself, a sand wedge. The reason that golfers such as Gene Sarazen made this club popular was, as the name suggests, to help them with hitting golf shots out of the sand in the bunker. However, this loft allows players to get the ball into the air within a 100 yard distance of the pin with increased backspin so is used on any surface such as fairway or rough. Typically sand wedges, will have a loft of between 52 and 56 degrees.
When Should You Use A Sand Wedge?
The sand wedge can be used for a variety of scenarios on a golf course. Obviously, when you are in the bunker is a great time to be using the sand wedge. To add to this, you may look to use your sand wedge on the fairway in several instances such as when you have a downhill lie and want some height to your approach shot. (downhill lies will lead to shots coming in lower.) It is important to be wary about using your sand wedge when your ball is on firm ground as the plates on sand wedges are designed for softer surfaces.
What Is The Best Degree?
It is important to understand what the best degree for sand wedge shots is for you. Sand Wedges can range from anywhere between 52 and 58 degrees. This may not sound like much but can make a huge difference in terms of wedge distance, loft and performance on sand wedge shots.
Lob Wedge Vs Sand Wedge – Are Both Valuable?
You may be wondering if purchasing both a lob wedge and a sand wedge is valuable.
The answer to this question all depends on personal preference as most golf sets when purchased won’t come with a lob wedge.
However, we would recommend having both in your golf bag as it gives you more flexibility as you approach the green, especially if you are looking for a wedge for chipping.
It is possible to get around a golf course without a lob wedge, however this flexibility is something that all experienced golfers want and is also great for beginner golfers too. For beginner golfers it is a great option to have in the golf bag even if it just means getting practice with the lob wedge as an extra club initially. For experienced golfers having a lob wedge in the bag can give an extra dimension around the greens.
