Wedge Bounce: What Is It & How to Use It
If you’re asking yourself what wedge bounce is, you’re not alone! Many golfers – especially those who are inexperienced of new to the game – are not familiar with wedge bounce. Yet, it is something that can help you at times when you might find you’re in a spot of trouble!
So, what is wedge bounce, and why do we think it important you know about it? Technically, wedge bounce is the angle of the sole of the wedge and the ground, when you are holding your wedge correctly.
There are different angles of bounce to choose from, and it might be apt to talk to a pro about getting the right wedge for you. The higher the bounce, the greater the angle is the general rule of thumb.
The point of bounce is to stop the front of the wedge ‘digging in’ to the ground when playing a chip, for example. Let’s talk a little more about the techniques involved, and where wedge bounce can help you.
Why Wedge Bounce is Important
What’s one of the biggest mistakes that golfers make when pitching or chipping? We’ll tell you: they hit too heavy with the wedge. It’s easy to do – especially for a newcomer to the game – and it can be very frustrating. This is where wedge bounce is your friend!
If you are familiar with the wedge bounce of your club, you stand a much better chance of getting these shots right – as that’s what it is designed to do! The problem is finding out what level of bounce is right for you.
The trick is not just to consider how you play, but where you play! If you are a regular on a course that has a firm surface, you may want to play with a wedge with lesser bounce. This is also true of players who have a less acute swing arc. The reason is the wedge has less chance of digging into firm surfaces, and the swing arc will allow you to hit cleanly and pick the ball up.
More bounce will be useful in conditions opposite to the above, and statistically, more players prefer a wedge with at least a little exaggerated bounce, as it allows for more varied play.
Many golfers use wedge bounce mainly on the green, and to great effect. The fact a certain angle of bounce can get the wedge under the ball gives greater control over the distance, but there are problems that can come about when you start to play with wedge bounce.
Getting Shaft Lean Right
Part of the art of golf is bringing all the elements of a shot together to create the perfect result. When chipping or pitching – using your wedge – you need to understand what shaft lean is all about.
The way to consider shaft lean is to watch how far ahead of the ball your hands are when taking the shot. If you are way ahead, what will happen is the lean will completely negate the effect of wedge bounce. The club will therefore hit the ground before the ball, and your shot will be ruined.
The general consensus is that a slight lean will give you the best control, and it pays to work on this element if you are to get the best out of your wedge bounce.
Final Thoughts
So, wedge bounce: it is a useful tool, and you may be playing with a club that does not have enough bounce for you or, conversely, offers too much.
The general rule of thumb is, when chipping or pitching, not to have your hands too far ahead of the ball. You might also want to check out your clubs and see what level of bounce you are currently playing with, and perhaps change for one that is more suited to your style of play, and to your regular playing surface.
Here’s a great video on how use the bounce on your wedges.
Every little helps when it comes to golf, so we hope we have helped you understand why wedge bounce may be of help to you!
