In the last decade the makeup of the average player’s set has changed dramatically. Long irons are quickly becoming extinct, replaced by easier-to-hit hybrid clubs. As the long irons disappear, more wedges find their way into bags, the most popular addition is the approach wedge. The A wedge has replaced the three iron as a set staple, forcing players to create an identity between their pitching wedge and the new addition.
Approach Wedge
The approach wedge, or attack or gap wedge, is a higher-lofted club than the pitching wedge but with less loft than a sand or lob wedge. It is meant to cover the yardage between the pitching and sand wedge on difficult in-between shots. The approach wedge has lofts around 50 degrees.
Pitching Wedge
The pitching wedge is standard in any iron set and has lofts between 42 and 46 degrees depending on manufacturer. Pitching wedges are a versatile club used by many players on full and partial shots anywhere from 150 yards from the pin to greenside pitches and chips.
Benefits
The approach wedge is becoming more prevalent in iron sets as players prefer to take full swings from shorter distances. Most amateurs know how far a full swing shot will carry; it’s the in-between distances that give them trouble. The A wedge addresses this need; instead of trying to pinch off a distance with your pitching wedge, you can take a full swing and be more confident in the distance.
Changing Set Makeup
A recent Golf Digest poll shows that 66 percent of iron sets sold in 2009 did not contain a three iron. Players are shifting away from harder-to-hit long irons, replacing them with high-lofted hybrids and adding an extra wedge.
Significance
The approach wedge is something every player should consider adding to their bag. The new club will help you take the guesswork and touch required inside 100 yards out of the way. Add a wedge, learn its carry distance and start hitting more greens.
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