Former Korn Ferry POY explains how to use the Texas wedge off the green

Most players are probably familiar with the term Texas Wedge, which it simply refers to the idea of using a putt (or a low-height club) when off the green, rather than trying to hit a wedge.

The thing is, many golfers (especially amateurs) think it’s blasphemous to use a golfer off the putting surface, often thinking professional players only use wedges in those types of situations.

But boy, are those types of players wrong.

While TV cameras don’t usually show pros using a Texas wedge, it is such a sight every professional uses in the short game. This is because it keeps the ball on the ground when it is close to the green, making it easier to control.

For people with moderate to high disabilities, using a Texas Wedge can be a lifeline. leads to fewer wedge errors and lower scores. And if you’re someone who insists on hitting wedges only when you’re on the green, 2011 Korn Ferry Player of the Year JJ Killeen explains why it’s time to rethink your strategy.

Why a Texas wedge is the safest play near the green

If you’re anything like me, you know that driving a wedge close to the green can be a tricky proposition. With so many (potentially bad) things that can happen – like chipping or dislocating their skull – a golfer needs to be sure their setup and execution is correct so they don’t leave themselves with a another even worse blow.

That’s why Killeen says to take control of the situation and just use a Texas wedge instead, which allows more opportunities to leave your shot close.

“A lot of amateurs will make the mistake of getting too close to the green,” says Killeen. “So using a barrel is always a great idea.”

Next, he says it’s important to first read the edge in front of the ball – which is the main obstacle a player will face on this type of shot. This will help identify how the ball will roll after hitting the putting surface.

“You want to read the putt when you get on the green, just to see how it rolls, and then really read the first part of the putt through the edge, because it’s going to bounce (more than likely) early, so I want you to read the first part before it gets close to the hole,” he says.

Killeen then places the ball as a normal free kick, with the position of the ball in the middle of its stance. He identifies his starting line and then predicts the ball’s movement from left to right.