Understanding what the letters and numbers on your wedges actually mean is essential to navigating those tricky shots around the green and from less-than-ideal lies. Here are the basics.
Pitching wedge
Most often marked with a “P” or “PW”, the pitch wedge is usually the lowest pitched wedge on your bag – usually ranging from 43 to 46 degrees. It’s ideal for full-motion approach shots, especially when you want a lower flight or more spin. It’s also a great option for low-end, functional chips.
Wedge the gap
The gap wedge fills the space gap between your lift wedge and the higher loft wedges in your bag. It can be marked with a “G” (gap), “A” (access), “U” (utility), or sometimes just a number. These versatile, mid-loft clubs typically range from 48 to 52 degrees and are useful for three-quarter putts, putts and controlled approaches when you want a little more spin than a sand wedge would provide.
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Sand wedge
Designed for bunker play, the sand wedge — usually marked with an “S” or “SW” — features higher bounce and a wider sole, allowing the club to slide through sand and soft ground instead of digging in.
Wedge lobe
The strip point is the highest cap on most bags, ranging from 58 to 60 degrees — some even go as high as 64. It’s often marked with an “L” or a number and is designed for high-slung, soft shots that stop quickly. This wedge is ideal for short sided pins, flop shots and delicate chips to hazards.
Knowing what’s in your bag—and why—is one of the easiest ways to improve your short game. Instead of relying on the club name alone, take the time to check out each wedge’s actual loft. Dialing in your wedge set can make the difference between tightening it up or cutting it short.
More things you need to know
As discussed, some wedges are labeled with letters—such as “P,” “A,” “S,” or “L”—while others are marked with loft ladders. Here’s the catch: Not all wedges with the same letter tag have the same loft. One brand’s PW may be 44 degrees, while another’s may be 46. This is enough to affect distance and shot selection. Many OEMs now favor stamping numbers on the loft instead of letters for more clarity during construction a structure with good gaps.
