How Much Bounce Do I Need On My Wedge?

A wedge has multiple playability characteristics that can make them effective shot savers on the course – sole width, camber, sole grind, and bounce angle. All of these factors play a determining role when selecting the proper wedge. However, the bounce plays the most significant role of all.

Bounce

The definition for bounce is the angle represented by a line drawn from the bottom of a wedge (sole) to the leading edge.

Many wedges offer a variety of bounce options, ranging from high to low. Different types of golfers will need different types of wedges based upon their swing type and playing conditions.

Swing Types & Bounce

There are generally two categories that golfers will fall into when it comes to swing types

1. Driver / Digger

Someone that’s a driver or digger will take a larger divot, and will, therefore, benefit from more bounce. This bounce will help the club properly dig through the turf.

2. Sweeper / Slider

Whereas someone that’s a sweeper or slider will take a very shallow, if any, divot and will benefit from less bounce to properly glide under the golf ball and not skip off the turf.

Playing Conditions & Bounce

Another aspect to consider when looking into the proper bounce is the typical playing conditions you run into.

Firm Conditions – This course conditions will have tightly mown fairways and areas around the green, as well as firm sand in the bunkers. If you typically play in these conditions you’ll benefit from a low-bounce wedge.

Soft Conditions – This course conditions will have long grass in the fairways and around the greens, as well as “fluffy” sand in the bunkers. If you typically play in these conditions you’ll benefit from a high-bounce wedge.

Golf is hard enough with the proper clubs! If you play with the wrong clubs, it can be virtually impossible to improve! Make sure you are playing with the proper golf equipment and get in touch with one of our PGA Professionals today. They’re available to give you the trusted expert advice you’re looking for – for FREE! Contact them here.

To learn more about wedges, check out these previous articles:

Alan Unruh

Alan Unruh is a Class “A” member of the PGA of America, and holds PGA Certifications in General Management, Golf Operations and Player Development. With these certifications, he is among the 1% of PGA members that hold multiple PGA Certifications. He has a profound passion for the game of golf along with extensive experience and knowledge regarding planning and strategy for golf operations, rules of golf, tournament operations and golf swing fundamentals. Alan has also played a crucial role helping manage multiple high profile tournaments throughout his career including the USGA Women’s U.S. Open, PGA and LPGA Tour events, and multiple NCAA and AJGA events.