Wedges are one of the most under-rated clubs in the bag. They are absolutely key in maintaining the momentum of your round by getting players out of tricky spots in and around the green, while also providing golfers with the opportunity to make birdies by honing their approach shots. They are called scoring clubs for a reason, so it's important to get kitted out with the right wedges that suit your own individual game.
Making this decision is difficult as there are a few things to be taken into account. For example, what bounce angle suits your chipping action and what grinds and lofts suit your longer game? Lofts are vital when it comes to gapping at the bottom end of your bag and that will in fact determine just how many wedges you want to carry.
So take a look at our selection of the best golf wedges on the market to help you hone your short-game skills and lower your scores.
The Quick list
The classic of the genre and the model you'll find in the bags of many of the world's top players, the Titleist SM10 has added more spin and a lower launch in the latest model and is available in a wide range of grinds and lofts.
The S159 wedges from Ping perform as good as they look, producing excellent levels of spin for chip and pitch shots. One of the more forgiving wedges on this list.
The raw face of this wedge is contrasted nicely by the outer body of the wedge to boost confidence behind the ball. All in all, a great looking wedge that spins at a consistently high level regardless of conditions.
The new finish looks sleek and clean and will also appeal to many golfers, especially due to the number of grind and bounce options. The TaylorMade Hi-Toe 4 is a versatile wedge that will suit a golfers of all abilities and playing styles.
Read more below
The CBX 4 Zipcore wedges combine performance and forgiveness for the mid to high handicapper. This is a great wedge from Cleveland, who are of course one of the best wedge makers in the game.
Soft feeling and very high-performing, the Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore wedge brings more forgiveness and wet-condition spin to the course in a classy looking head.
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A beautifully-crafted head shape forged from soft carbon steel. While the performance is superb from various lies and specifically in wetter conditions, they are not the most forgiving.
The Opus Platinum is a beautiful wedge that produces low but high spinning ball flight. As is usually the case with Callaway, this wedge boasts a plethora of new technology.
Best Golf Wedges
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Titleist Vokey SM10 Wedge
Vokey wedges are often considered the gold standard of wedges. They offer stunning looks and market-leading performance and versatility and last year on the PGA Tour more than half the wedges put in play every week were Titleist Vokey Wedges. This is quite an incredible stat considering the wealth of quality on offer from other brands.
Wedge guru Bob Vokey and the engineers at Titleist have crammed the SM10s full of tech, meaning they now fly lower, spin more and have better feel and turf interaction than the SM9s, which is something we certainly noticed in testing.
While Titleist rarely make too many changes when it comes to the looks of their vokey wedges, the SM10 does have a few subtle differences from its predecessor, such as the progressive shaping which makes them look great when at address. The more lofted wedges have bigger heads, whilst the stronger lofted clubs have a straighter leading edge when compared to the sand and lob wedge.
- Read our full Titleist Vokey SM10 Wedge Review
Ping S159 Wedge
Ping have created the WebFit Wedge App which allows golfers to complete a questionnaire online (it takes less than two minutes) about their wedge game. Based on the answers the app will provide one or two grind options that will suit your game best so you know that you are playing the right grind and bounce options for your game, while avoiding the need to pay for a custom fitting.
This is a cool development as Ping has released some of the best wedges in recent times so being able to hone in and get the right ones for your game is invaluable. The S159 wedges follow on from the excellent Glide 4.0 and Glide Forged models and are aimed at the lower to mid handicap golfer who wants a classic looking wedge with workability. The S159 really wowed us in testing - the feel off the face is amazing, particularly with fuller shots. We also loved the mid to high trajectory which was consistent and allowed us to aim right at the flag with greater confidence.
- Read our full Ping S159 Wedge Review
TaylorMade MG4 Wedge
Taylormade may be better known for making some of the best drivers in golf, but don't sleep on their wedges. The MG4 wedges are a fantastic option for any golfer looking to upgrade their wedges for this year. We loved the looks and performance of the MG4. The raw face contrasts nicely with the outer body of the wedge, while multiple bounce and loft options (seven bounce options - low standard and high, LBV, SBC and HBW along with the TW grind) allow a lot of customization which is vital in getting the right wedge for your own game.
Raised Micro-Ribs have been added between the grooves for optimum spin levels, while spin tread technology has been used to push moisture off the face at impact to help with distance and spin control as well as consistency.
From a looks perspective, we really liked these wedges in both the chrome and the black finishes, although chrome is generally the better option if longevity is a consideration. The profile is very traditional and the wedges are progressive through the lofts in lots of ways - hosel length, toe height, blade length, and offset.
- Read our full TaylorMade Milled Grind 4 Wedge Review
TaylorMade Hi-Toe 4 Wedge
The second TaylorMade wedge to make the list, the Hi-Toe 4 Wedge is now in it's 4th iteration and offers maximum versatility, performance and boasts some significant improvements over it's predecessor—the Hi-Toe 3 wedge.
The face and groove pattern is the same as those found on the TaylorMade MG4 wedges, which we consider one of the top models for spin control. Whether you like the overall shape of the head depends on your individual preference, and we feel some will love it and others will not. Leaving aside the head shape, we were big fans of the new, refined aesthetics as the copper finish remains true to all of the previous Hi-Toe models and, when combined with the raw face, helps reduce glare on sunny days.
The big thing with these wedges is the versatility on offer. Thanks to the new Spin Tread technology on the face, we were able to achieve remarkably high levels of spin and control from both the fairway and the rough. Make no mistake, these wedges performed brilliantly in testing.
They're also available in 5 grinds if you live in the US or 3 if you live in the EU. We tested the ATC grind option with 8° of bounce which made enabled our tester to slide our club under the ball easily and land the ball softly with spin.
- Read our full TaylorMade Hi-Toe 4 Wedge Review
Cleveland CBX 4 Zipcore Wedge
Here at Golf Monthly we have been huge fans of Cleveland wedges for many years, so it was no surprise to us that we loved the performance from the CBX 4 Zipcore wedges during our testing. In fact, we think they are some of the best Cleveland wedges out there, which is no mean feat.
What makes them so good? Well for one thing the Zipcore technology allows for a heavier steel in the hosel to be replaced with a more lightweight option, meaning the saved weight can be redistributed across the toe and top of the club face. This improves MOI and provides excellent feel, especially on those tricky chip shots.
Although these are aimed at the higher to mid handicap players, lower handicappers who struggle with their short game should also give them a try to see if they can help them conquer any chipping 'yips' they might be experiencing.
All in all, the CBX 4 wedges are a strong option for anyone looking to upgrade their wedges this season. They produced a strong showing in our testing and we feel that golfers of all abilities will benefit from the really high levels of performance and forgiveness.
- Read our full Cleveland CBX 4 ZipCore Wedge Review
Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore Wedge
Another offering from Cleveland to make the list is the RTX 6 ZipCore wedge, which brings more forgiveness and wet-condition spin to the course in a classy looking head. While this wedge is packed with technology, most of the innovations in the RTX6 are not visible to the naked eye. For example, the ZipCore insert in the hosel is made of up to 95 percent more aluminium and silicon material than before. This means less weight that can then be added elsewhere in the head to make the RTX 6 more forgiving by increasing the MOI by up to 20 percent.
We noted in testing that the UltiZip grooves provided bags of spin and control thanks to their sharper, deeper characteristics. These grooves are also closer together than in previous models and interestingly they vary depending on the loft of the club. In between the grooves are laser milled lines designed to help you strike the ball more cleanly, while the face is blasted with HydraZip technology for a clean, matte finish and maximum friction at impact.
There are a wide variety of lofts from 46° to 60° in a good range of bounces including a new 8° Low+ option in the 54° and 56° heads. It performed well in our testing and it is definitely one of the best Cleveland wedges that you should definitely consider for your bag.
- Read our full Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore wedge review
Mizuno Pro T-1 Wedge
Having control around the green largely comes down to feel and there aren’t many brands out there that can replicate the sensation at impact that Mizuno offers. The Pro T-1 wedge is one of two new wedges released by Mizuno, alongside the Pro T-3. The Pro T-1 wedge brings a refined new look, improving on the very impressive T24 wedge which was one of of our favorites from last year.
We tested the Mizuno Pro T-1 wedge in the Soft White Satin finish, which was our personal favourite, although these wedges are also available in Ion Blue and Ion Black finishes.
Constructed from 1025 Pure Select Mild Carbon Steel and copper underlay, the Mizuno Pro T-1 wedge offers a buttery soft feel and feedback a level above most wedges we have tested over the past few years. Due to its bladed nature, it's not one of the most forgiving wedges on the market and we did notice a drop off in ball speed on slight mishits, so this is something to consider if you regularly hit full shots with your wedges.
If, however, you are a competent ball striker who likes the look and feel of the best golf blades or Mizuno irons and are looking to upgrade your wedges, then the Mizuno Pro T-1 may just be what you have been looking for.
- Read our full Mizuno Pro T-1 Wedge Review
Callaway Opus Platinum Wedge
While performance is paramount, let's be honest here and admit that looks are definitely important too when it comes to choosing new golf clubs. Callaway is a brand that understands that more than most and the Opus Platinum wedges look spectacular. Naturally we were excited to put this new model to the test to see if the performance matches the aesthetics, and we were not disappointed.
Shaped on tour player feedback, the result of which is a compact looking head with high toe peak and a slightly rounded leading edge. There is a choice of a chrome finish or a PVD blue, and visually these wedges are a match for any of the best wedges on the market.
Callaway has used MiM (metal injection moulding) in the design of the Opus Platinum wedges. This is a process by which a proprietary blend of metals are used to create a distinct feel and help dial in performance. The tungsten holes that were seen in the back of the Jaws Raw wedges have been replaced by a bonded tungsten strip that sits high in the top line to create a higher CG (center of gravity) which lowers the ball flight for more distance control.
We noticed this in testing and it certainly felt a little more solid and crisp through impact compared to the standard Opus wedge. We also thought the Platinum Opus was a little more forgiving and we would say this is a great choice for more advanced golfers looking to get creative around the greens.
- Read our full Callaway Opus Platinum Wedge Review
How we test
At Golf Monthly, we take the testing process very seriously. Regardless of whether a product is sent to us or purchased independently, we rigorously evaluate each wedge to ensure our advice is accurate and reliable.
Our testing procedures are combined with the extensive knowledge and experience of our test team, who have a sterling reputation in the industry for providing genuine, evidence-based insights.
We don't cut corners either. Our methodology is to test each wedge across multiple rounds and in practice to analyze every aspect of performance in all conditions. Case in point: if a wedge claims to be the ultimate bunker club, we'll test that theory from every lie possible.
For the best wedges, we tested every one to assess the level of spin, feel and distance. We were also looking at factors such as forgiveness and differences in flight. Of course, this rigorous testing approach isn't limited to wedges—we apply the same thorough methodology to every gear category.
How to choose new wedges
Gapping: Measure your wedge yardages and how often you’re between clubs to decide if you need extra options. Proper gapping is key to your entire bag setup, helping you determine whether to carry two, three, or four wedges, which can impact the number of clubs at the top of your bag. The reverse is also true. Check out our guide on the best gap wedges as well so check that out for more information.
Bounce: Low bounce wedges work best on hard fairways and tight lies, while high bounce wedges excel in softer conditions and bunkers. Bounce typically ranges from 2° to 18°. Your choice should depend on factors like your angle of attack, fairway firmness, and the types of shots you prefer around the greens.
Finish: Options like black PVD and copper are becoming more popular, mainly for cosmetic reasons, with dark finishes reducing glare. Classic chrome and silver designs are also available, so it's about choosing a finish that appeals to you both at address and in the bag.
Grooves: Though grooves are now tightly regulated, staying updated on the latest designs is beneficial. New milling processes and groove shapes help move water and dirt away at impact, enhancing spin and control. Some brands have introduced wedges with grooves extending across the entire face. While it takes some time to adjust, a full-face wedge can be advantageous for players who struggle with strikes, offering better spin toward the toe.
FAQs
What is the easiest golf wedge to hit?
Wedges with a high MOI (moment of inertia) provide increased stability and forgiveness, which leads us to conclude that cavity-back designs are likely the easiest to hit. In terms of loft, it depends on how your wedge set-up complements your swing and the type of turf you tend to play from.
Which are the best golf wedges?
Ultimately, the best golf wedge is the one that fits your playing style—it's subjective. That said, in our list above is a selection of the best wedges currently on the market, all of which will deliver exceptional performance.
What is the most used wedge in golf?
Again, this probably depends on each golfer's specific game. But typically the pitching wedge is the club most commonly used at that end of the bag.
What are the most forgiving golf wedges?
In general, the most forgiving wedges are those that come with full-face grooves. This enables golfers to generate plenty of spin and control, regardless of the strike location. Plus, there are also a host of cavity-back wedges, which don't have the same visual appeal, but the high MOI design will make them easier to hit consistently.
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