Best Wedges For Mid Handicap Golfers

Best Wedges For Mid Handicap Golfers

!!!!DISCLAIMER!!!! This site may contain Amazon & other affiliate links.
This means if you click on one of the product recommendation links, this site may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and may include exclusive discounts when possible. This helps support this site and allows us to keep making content like this. Thank you for your support!

With wedge play, we can tell you with the assurance that having the correct tools makes the job easier for the golfer.

The bounce and loft of the wedge may make or break your game, but few people understand how it affects them. If you hit the same three shots with the same loft but simply modify the bounce of the club, the results will be three different. That is how complex wedge play is.

You may make use of the best wedges for mid handicappers to lower the score down inside the strike zone using quality wedges. These are, in our opinion, the greatest golf wedges on the market right now for bunkers, approaches, chipping, and pitching.

Who Is A Mid Handicapper, And What Is The Best Wedge?

We normally refer to someone as a mid handicapper if they have a handicap between 7 and 18, also known as a B flight in the British context. A mid handicapper’s wedges might vary according on their ball striking abilities, as well as their elegance and touch around the greens.

If you play a forgiving set of mid handicap irons, there are more forgiving wedges, such as cavity back wedges, that complement the rest of your bag.

Other types of wedges include blade wedges, which are generally more exact. With a wedge in their hand, mid handicappers can have a wide range of skill. A mid-handicapper may even want different wedges for different shots. A lob wedge for short-distance high approaches. Maybe he wants a chipping wedge with a low bounce and a crisp edge. Is he a fan of a huge fat sole sand wedge for splashing it out of bunkers?

Every mid handicapper must identify their priorities and choose wedges for the areas of their game that will get them into the low 80s and 70s.

How to Make the Ideal Wedge Set 

Step 1: Choose The Best Option

3 wedges for consistent gapping

  • 50° pitching wedge
  • 54° gap wedge
  • 58° sand wedge

4 wedges for tiny gaps to plug

  • 48° pitching wedge
  • 52° gap wedge
  • 56° sand wedge
  • 60° lob wedge

3 wedges for comfort

  • 48° pitching wedge
  • 56° sand wedge
  • 60° lob wedge

The simplest system is the Three-wedge Consistent Gap method. It also makes room in your bag for another fairway wood or hybrid. Most players will benefit from this because there will be more room in the bag for hybrids and fairway woods for more forgiveness approaching the green.

You have a lot of wedge possibilities with the Four-wedge Micro Gap method. This is a fantastic method for longer hitters who are confident with their drives and can consistently hit the long ball down the chute and have between 150 and 90 yards into greens.

Most individuals have the Three-wedge Random Space system since they have a regular PW from the manufacturer and buy additional wedges separately without knowing about the gap between the PW and SW. This is not an awful method, but it is far from ideal.

Step 2: Choose The Wedges

The majority of wedge manufacturers make wedges in the following lofts:

50°  52°  54°  56°  58°  60°  64°

There is no wrong answer; it all depends on your requirements, BUT…

Avoid the 64° wedges at all costs. They’re terrible and more of a gimmick. You might use this club once in a round and still screw it up!

Choose your wedge maker and attempt to purchase two, three, or four wedges from the same range/manufacturer to ensure uniformity throughout the wedge set. Having a similar feel and distance gapping from the same wedge range can give you more confidence on approach shots.

How to Choose the Best Wedge

Loft gapping

What is your pitching wedge distance on a full shot? What is the distance between the following two wedges? What is the distance between the following wedges after that? Determine the distances and the largest gap to fill.

Bounce

Low bounce wedges work well on hard fairways and narrow lies with grass that is clipped close to the ground. In soft ground, damp ground, and fluffy bunkers, high bounce wedges are favored.

Wedges can have up to 18 degrees of bounce, but on real hardpan and dry courses, a pro or a specific player may hone his bounce to 2 degrees. The bounce you select will be determined by how steeply you hit the ball, the conditions of the courses (soft, hard, or fluffy), and how you play around the greens. Do you prefer chip and runs, floaty shots, or basic chips?

Finish

When you open the blade, you can receive a matte finish wedge to reduce glare from the sun. Aside from silver, there are blue, black, brown, and copper wedges if you want to change things up. Some wedges are made to rust in order to increase the roughness for spin.

Groove Pattern

Some wedges have additional tiny grooves cut into their faces. The grooves themselves must not be overly deep or of a specific shape. U-shaped and V-shaped grooves are available. You want a wedge that will spin but not too much, and that will be harsh on the face but not so much that it will destroy your golf ball covers.

Step 3: Practice

Take your new shoes to the range. Spend a half-bucket, if not a full bucket, on just hitting your wedges. For an hour at a time, practice on the chipping green. Chip the lawn or the roof of your house.

With a good pair of wedges and 2 or 3 hours of practice every week, you’ll be able to lower your score by at least 4 strokes in a couple of months. Guaranteed.

Top 5 Wedges For Mid Handicap Golfers

AT A GLANCE – THE TOP 5 WEDGES FOR MID HANDICAP GOLFERS (SEE ON AMAZON)

1. TOP PICK: Cleveland CBX 2 Cavity Back Wedge
2. BEST TOUR LEVEL: Taylormade Milled Grind Wedge
3. BEST FOR LONG TIME USE: Mizuno T20 Satin Wedge
4. BEST FOR BUNKERS & GREEN SIDE CHIPPING: Cleveland Smart Sole 4 S Wedge
5. BEST FOR CHIP & RUNS: Cleveland Smart Sole 4 C Wedge

SPECIFICATIONS

⛳️ Hollow-cavity design - Additional weight distributed to the perimeter offers more forgiveness at impact.


⛳️ Dynamic sole - Three different sole Grinds deliver more versatility to execute any shot on the course.


⛳️ Amazing feel - enhanced feel balancing technology along with an insert reduces vibration for a pure feel at impact.


⛳️ Rote face - fourth-generation rote face Technology delivers our sharpest Tour zip grooves and most aggressive face milling for maximum spin and short game control.

WHAT WE THINK:

Cleveland is the most well-known name in golf wedges, and the new generation of the RTX is another superb wedge for the average golfer. Because the majority of us (84%) utilize cavity back irons, it makes sense to supplement the set with cavity back wedges for feel and consistency, and the RTX-3 cavity back irons fit neatly into your set.


By hacking out the back of the wedge, they may place additional weight around the outer rear edge for more perimeter weighting and added forgiving. So, when you hit this wedge, you will find that it kept distance and direction significantly more than any existing Mizunos, even on mishits. But there's something you should know to avoid misinterpreting the requirements.


What we appreciate best about these wedges is the variety of loft possibilities.


They are available in lofts ranging from 46 degrees to 60 degrees in 2-degree increments. So, if you enjoy your one Cleveland wedge, you can round out the bag with another one or two in whichever loft you choose.


Because of the extra spin, these puppies get on the ball, a rougher face and deeper grooves mean you'll be tearing up the greens more frequently and consistently.

WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK:

“I am a 13 handicap that plays with cavity back irons and the main problem with my game is 100 in as well the occasional chunked or skulled wedge so I thought I would try the CBX2 out. I previously played with a Cleveland Rotex 2.0 588 wedge which is a blade. This wedge has a similar feel at address and goes the exact same distance on full swing as my previous 56 degrees but the main difference is more "good misses". From 25 in there were many shots where I would have chunked or skulled the iron but with this wedge, the ball got up in the air and made it to the green. Not a perfect shot by any means but it is WAY more forgiving which of course will lead (hopefully if I can putt) to better scoring. All in all performs as advertised and really anyone over an 8 handicap should probably be playing with a "game improvement" wedge like this one. 5 stars!”

PROS

✅ Cavity returns for better shots, even if they are mishits.


✅ Face has been roughened up and has sharp grooves for spin.


✅ Several loft settings allow you to fine-tune the performance based on your tastes.


✅ It is a fantastic match for your cavity back iron set.


✅ Sweet spot is closer to the center of the club face than other wedges - the center of gravity has been shifted away from the hosel.

CONS

❌ Reduced shot shaping

2. BEST TOUR LEVEL: Taylormade Milled Grind Wedge

SPECIFICATIONS

⛳️ MG2’s face features several new innovations engineered to maximize spin.


⛳️ The ZTP RAW Groove Design is engineered for a more greenside spin, with sharper, narrower, and deeper grooves in the face, as well as laser etching.


⛳️ The milling process maximizes consistency, maintaining tolerance levels difficult for a human to repeat. The result is a precisely crafted grind on each and every wedge that produces optimal turf interaction and consistent performance.


⛳️ By redistributing mass, we are able to optimize CG location for precise flight and enhanced feel.


⛳️ The TPU Insert in the back cavity of the wedge is designed to provide vibration dampening, creating a solid, positive feel at impact.

WHAT WE THINK:

Taylormade needs to produce specific wedges since their Tour players require them to complete the iron set they sign up to play with, therefore a lot of effort goes into manufacturing them.


They've even gone so far as to provide three distinct bounce options. There are three options: LB, SB, and HB, which stand for Low, Standard, and High Bounce. For most golfers, we recommend the High Bounce. Low-bounce wedges are best suited to talented players or those who spend the majority of their time on firm ground. High Bounce wedges will strike the ground or sand and bounce back, sending the ball high and with a lot of spin. Unless you're really grooved, the LB and SB tend to dig into the ground and offer variable results.


The heel grind and red dot in line with the hosel, as well as the club's minimalist sole, make the Milled Grind wedge stand out. These wedges appeal to many golfers for their classic-looking wedges. The newly constructed grooves suck the ball in and spit it out spinning. 


It's significantly more expensive than the Milled Grind 1, but it's worth considering if you want the latest and finest.


This club, like all good-looking things we adore, can be unforgiving. That is why, especially with the high bounce option, we recommend it for low to mid handicappers. If you want to test them out but aren't sure which bounce to choose, get the HB first, and if it isn't for you, get the SB. It's all a matter of trial and error.

WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK:

“My son wanted a 30-degree wedge, so I purchased this for him. He loves the weight and feel of it. Has been practicing chipping with it at the putting green near the driving range. He is very happy with it.”


“Hands down the best wedge I ever used. Never got spin on my old wedge and this one really leaves me a nice lie for some easy puts! Well done Taylormade.”


“I like the weight and it provides sick control for my short game. Sweet club”

PROS

✅ Has a classic and minimalist design


✅ Great out the rough


✅ Three styles of bounce


✅ Optimal bounce

CONS

❌ Not so forgiving






3. BEST FOR LONG TIME USE: Mizuno T20 Satin Wedge

SPECIFICATIONS

⛳️ Hydro flow micro-grooves: laser etched microscopic grooves help channel away moisture for a maximum spin in wet conditions


⛳️ Weight placed high, discreetly within a tapered blade for increased spin and vertical stability from off-center strikes


⛳️ Grain flow forged HD: enhanced grain flow forging process that increases grain density in the impact area for the ultimate soft, solid, consistent feel


⛳️ Precise CNC milled grooves


⛳️ Premium Components include a dynamic gold Tour issue S400 wedge shaft, Golf Pride grip. 60 round grip and your choice of stain chrome or blue ion finish

WHAT WE THINK:

The Mizuno wedge is frequently the one that hooks you. You play one and keep it for a very long time. There's no doubt about the high quality of these wedges.


Design and appearance are secondary on these wedges because they are quite minimalistic. That appeals to many golfers. It's only a wedge, but it serves its job admirably.


You can choose between satin chrome and ion blue, but both have the same properties, and when you place the wedge behind the ball, the leading edge looks nice and straight. Most wedges appear to be spherical.

WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK:

“I play all of my golf in the early morning and always in heavy dew and my 60 deg wedge here has made a real difference in my game. I'm a believer. I really like this club.”


“I have these in a 60, with 10 bounce and a 52 with 8 bounce and I am loving them so far. Some of the most beautiful wedges I've ever seen and they maintain their condition very well (satin chrome). Forged wedges, slightly firmer feel around greens which I like, good feel in full shots. Spin is just as comparable to any other wedge! top end wedge that just looks better than the rest.” 


“I bought the 52, 56, 60-degree wedges. I have played with them once so far. It was an adjustment. These wedges produce more backspin chipping compared to my old ones. But they are nice. Have a good weight. Still dialing in the distances for each.”

PROS

✅ Come in great colors


✅ Can be easily manipulated and controlled open and closed


✅ High-quality forged iron


✅ Has a lot of zip

CONS

❌ Lots of lofts and bounces







4. BEST FOR BUNKERS & GREEN SIDE CHIPPING: Cleveland Smart Sole 4 S Wedge

SPECIFICATIONS

⛳️ The Smart Sole 4 makes the short game easier. Featuring an extra wide sole and improved Feel Balancing Technology, the Smart Sole 4 delivers maximum forgiveness and easier bunker play for those needing more short game assistance.


⛳️ An extra wide three-tiered sole, with added leading edge bounce, provides maximum forgiveness from the fairway, rough, or out of the bunker. The sand wedge was specifically designed to provide your best chance at getting out of the bunker in just one swing. The Chipper makes bump-and-runs as easy as possible. And the new Gap Wedge’s sole ensures great contact on full and pitch shots, even if your swing isn’t perfect.


⛳️ The Smart Sole 4 provides the tools you need to score your best. A Sand Wedge for easy bunker escapes, a Chipper for foolproof chip shots, and a forgiving Gap Wedge for full and pitch shots into the green. There’s a wedge for every shot, all you need do is swing it.

WHAT WE THINK:

The S wedge is available at 58°, which is great for a sand wedge in my opinion - like a love child of a sand wedge and a lob wedge. The Smart Sole has a lot of bounce, which makes every wedge shot more enjoyable. A pitch or bunker shot is nearly impossible to make a mistake on.


This is where this gadget really shines. You'll never be afraid of sand again.


Set up in a straight line with your back to the target. Manipulate the club face differently than you would with a regular sand wedge. Swing your bat and strike the sand behind the ball. That's it! The remainder will be handled by the club. Is this some sort of miraculous club? I don't think there are any, but this is an exception. With a little practice, you'll be able to get out of the bunkers the first time every time.

WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK:

“Really like this club with regard to shots fifty yards or less including bunker and shots out of the rough. Just ordered the 50 degree gap wedge in this series. I'm a senior golfer and have lost some confidence hitting my regular Cleveland wedges that I've had for some time. This wedge plus the 50 degree just ordered I'm sure will give me no pause for thought when I address shots utilizing these clubs.” 


“Nothing to dislike works well around the green as well as in the bunker”

PROS

✅ Very forgiving


✅ Chipping could not be simpler


✅ Simple technique to get out of bunkers


✅ Thick sole

CONS

❌ Will take a few practices and getting used to


❌ Only has two choices: 42-degrees and 58- degrees




5. BEST FOR CHIP & RUNS: Cleveland Smart Sole 4 C Wedge

SPECIFICATIONS

⛳️ Enhanced Three-Tiered Sole - An extra wide three-tiered sole, with added leading edge bounce, provides maximum forgiveness from the fairway, rough or out of the bunker.


⛳️ Improved Feel Balancing Technology - The redistribution of weight from the hosel allows the center of gravity to be moved closer to the center of the clubface for better feel and more consistency on all shots.


⛳️ Aggressive Milled Grooves - New aggressive milled grooves generate better spin performance from any condition.

WHAT WE THINK:

This is a genuinely unique 42° club designed to assist golfers who struggle to get up and down around the greens, especially if you smash your chip shots frequently. The Cleveland C wedge is a little beauty for getting up and down around the greens. It's a dart thrower inside 120 yards.


Duffed chips vanish thanks to the extra broad Smart Sole, and it's nearly difficult to botch up strokes with the club. The wide sole saves fat shots by getting the ball close to your objective.


On the green, all you have to do is target the ball, make a putting stroke with it, and the ball will go anywhere you want it to go.


Longer approaches take some getting used to due to the distinctive appearance of the club face.

WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK:

“The C wedge is as great as the S. Easy accurate and reliable. Great for pitching and chipping.”


“The club has really helped with my game. Great price”


“This wedge felt very nice right out of the box. Replaced old Cleveland and this one feels very nice.”

PROS

✅ Extra wide three-tiered sole


✅ Added leading edge bounce


✅ Provides maximum forgiveness


✅ Better feel and more consistency

CONS

❌ It will take some practice to figure out how to hit these wedge clubs.





Final Thoughts

You now have all of the information you need to choose a fantastic set of wedges or simply one to fill a gap. Modern wedges are all quite good, but like with all clubs, it depends on your preferences and needs. Choose wisely, and we hope you can start getting out of the bunker in one stroke and chipping the ball in close.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many degrees is a pitching wedge?

Pitching wedges range in angle from 45 to 48 degrees and are imprinted with a P or PW, and occasionally a 10 iron, as in a Honma set. The pitching wedge lacks the large sole and high bounce of the sand and lob wedges. With that loft, you may utilize a pitching wedge for approach shots to your maximum distance, and it is very helpful as a chipping club around the greens.

In fact, if you’re having trouble with chipping, focus just on the pitching wedge and master it. It will be the club you lean on in the future as you improve your golf game.

What exactly is a gap wedge?

There may be a gap between the pitching wedge and the sand wedge, which may present some distance concerns on approach shots. You don’t need a gap wedge if you work hard enough; you can learn to hit partial shots with a pitching wedge.

The funny thing is that a pitching wedge can be included in your set, and a sand wedge is frequently included as well. The part that irritates people is that a pitching wedge has a loft of 48 degrees and a sand wedge has a loft of 56 degrees. That’s an 8-degree difference, whereas the other irons typically have a 4-degree difference between them.

That is why it is referred to as a gap wedge: it bridges the space between the pitching wedge and the sand wedge. Easy.

How many degrees is a sand wedge?

Sand Wedges are available in 54, 56, and 58 degree degrees. For most players with handicaps ranging from 10 to 24, a sand wedge is the most valuable club. It can be used for chipping, pitching, and sand play. You don’t need a lob wedge unless your course necessitates it for the strokes you need to hit. A normal 56-degree sand wedge will meet the demands of 90% of golfers, particularly those in the mid handicap range.

Similar Posts