Specialized golf clubs designed for shots near the green, these implements aid novice players in executing short-game maneuvers. They typically feature higher lofts than other clubs, facilitating high, soft landings onto the putting surface. These clubs assist in navigating hazards and varying lies commonly encountered within approximately 100 yards of the hole. A common example is a 56-degree sand wedge used to escape a greenside bunker.
Proficiency in the short game significantly impacts overall scoring ability. These clubs are essential tools for developing that proficiency, allowing for greater control and precision in approach shots. Historically, golfers relied on modified irons for these shots; however, the introduction of specifically designed wedges has revolutionized short-game play, enabling more consistent performance and improved shot-making options. They bridge the gap between long-range clubs and the putter, offering a spectrum of shot trajectories and distances.
