Best Gap Wedges for 2024 to Improve Your Short Game
Discover the best gap wedges with our expert reviews and tips to lower your scores and master the greens.
by Jake Tingey & Judd Lyon · Updated: 5/18/23
Master the art of the short game with the perfect gap wedge. Our expert-selected best gap wedges for 2024 will help you bridge the distance gap, improve precision, and achieve lower scores on the course. We've carefully examined top brands and models to bring you an array of options that cater to different playing styles and preferences. Unlock the full potential of your short game with our comprehensive guide, featuring in-depth reviews, insider tips, and crucial factors to consider when choosing the ultimate gap wedge for your golf bag.
Callaway Mack Daddy CB
A club that makes it easy to find the sweet spot
A forgiving gap wedge with a bigger sweet spot, the Callaway Mack Daddy CB is great for high handicappers looking for a club that makes it easy to find the sweet spot. If you've had your eye on the Mack Daddy 5 but want something easier to square up, the Mack Daddy CB is for you.
- Lofts Available
- 50-52 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- None
- High-Bounce
- 50.12, 52.12
- Left-Handed
- Both of them
- Grinds
- Full sole grind
- Grooves
- JAWS groove design (not full-face)
- Finish
- Brushed silver
- Stock Shaft
- KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 105 (steel), KBS Hi-Rev G (graphite)
- Shaft Flex
- Stiff (steel, graphite)
- Shaft Length
- 35-35.25"
- Swingweight
- D4
What We Like
- Cavity-back design promotes maximum forgiveness on all shots
- Full-Face Groove design provides more spin and control
- Versatile sole grind delivers maximum playability from any lie
What Could Be Better
- Not the most powerful wedge on the market, may not be suitable for players who need maximum distance
The Mack Daddy CB is geared toward game-improvement players looking for versatility around the greens with a blade wedge they feel comfortable playing. That's where the Mack Daddy CB shines almost as a hybrid between their Mack Daddy 5 and PM Grind, both of which are popular wedges for mid and low-handicappers.
The result is the Mack Daddy CB with a face that feels larger than a blade wedge (even though it's just 4% larger) but still gives you the ability to open it up as needed for tough approaches as lower-lofted Mack Daddy CB offerings like the 50-52 degree gap wedges have a full sole for easy, iron-like turf interaction
Cleveland RTX ZipCore
Offers exceptional spin and control, making it our top pick for precise shots around the green
The Cleveland RTX ZipCore is the most radical wedge in Cleveland Golf's history, essentially tearing down and rebuilding its flagship model from the ground up with changes to the center of gravity, groove technology, sole grinds, and overall construction for the best wedge Cleveland Golf has ever made.
- Lofts Available
- 50-52 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- 50.10, 52.10
- High-Bounce
- None
- Left-Handed
- Both of them
- Grinds
- Low sole, mid sole, full sole
- Grooves
- Heat-treated UltiZip Grooves
- Finish
- Black Satin, Tour Satin, Tour Rack (raw)
- Stock Shaft
- True Temper Dynamic Gold Spinner (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Wedge
- Shaft Length
- 34.875"
- Swingweight
- D5
What We Like
- ZipCore technology for improved energy transfer and higher spin
- UltiZip Grooves for better spin and control on all shots
- V-Shaped Sole for more consistent turf interaction
- Progressive shape for improved versatility
What Could Be Better
- Some golfers may not like the club's more compact head design
At the heart of what makes the Cleveland RTX ZipCore so great is its low-density core made from an aluminum silicate compound, which weighs about 2 grams per cubic centimeter—four times less than 8620 carbon steel. That's a huge amount of weight savings in a club and translates to a totally different swing. Moving the center of gravity higher and closer to the middle improves the moment of inertia, which gives you better spin control but is more challenging for high handicappers.
The other signature feature is the RTX ZiPCore's UltiZip Grooves, which are sharper and deeper than anything Cleveland has ever introduced and are so textured they almost look like fingerprints. That translates to big-time bite and plenty of spin.
The club also comes with three different sole grinds for all types of playing conditions:
- Low Sole: Low-bounce, C-grind with heel, toe, and trailing edge relief for superior versatility (6 degrees of bounce)
- Mid Sole: V-shaped with trailing edge relief for a low leading edge on open-face shots (10 degrees of bounce)
- Full Sole: Classic design for stable full shots with added bounce when you open up the face (12 degrees of bounce)
The RTX ZipCore isn't a beginner's gap wedge. Instead, it's a high-performance, advanced wedge for mid and low-handicap golfers.
TaylorMade Milled Grind 2
Tried-and-true and our top pick for golfers who want a reliable and flexible club
A popular wedge with lofts spanning the entire pitching wedge to lob wedge spectrum, there are just two options available in 50-52 degree gap wedges, both with 9 degrees of bounce. The precision-milled sole delivers the performance you expect, and TaylorMade's new ZTP RAW grooves offer above-average bite for solid backspin and consistent flight paths.
- Lofts Available
- 50-52 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- 50.09, 52.09
- High-Bounce
- None
- Left-Hand
- Both of them
- Grinds
- Precision-milled sole for exactly the bounce you expect and a smooth swing
- Grooves
- ZTP RAW
- Finish
- Matte black, satin chrome
- Stock Shaft
- True Temper Dynamic Gold S200 (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Stiff
- Shaft Length
- 35.50"
- Swingweight
- D3
What We Like
- Precision-milled sole for maximum consistency and precision
- Raw Face Technology for increased spin and control
- ZTP-17 grooves for maximum spin and control on all shots
- Thru-Slot Speed Pocket enhances ball speed and forgiveness on low-face shots
What Could Be Better
- Some golfers may prefer a more traditional shape and design
The TaylorMade Milled Grind 2 Wedge features a precision-milled sole that offers maximum consistency and precision on every shot. The club's Raw Face Technology delivers increased spin and more control, especially in wet conditions. We like the wedge's ZTP-17 grooves, which deliver maximum spin and control on all shots.
The Milled Grind 2 Wedge features a Thru-Slot Speed Pocket that enhances ball speed and forgiveness on low-face shots. The club's Hi-Toe design features an extended toe section that provides added versatility around the greens. We also appreciate the club's compact shape and minimal offset, making it easier to shape shots with more control.
Mizuno T20 Satin Chrome Wedge
A Must-have for the short game, offers excellent precision and feel around the green.
The Mizuno T20 Satin Chrome Wedge has a classic teardrop shape and a refined look that will appeal to any golfer. The clubface features precision milling for consistent spin rates and control, essential for getting up and down from around the green. We like the Hydroflow Micro Grooves that enhance spin control, especially in wet conditions. The wedges also feature loft-specific sole grinds that allow golfers to choose the right option for their game.
- Lofts Available
- 50-52 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- 50.07
- Mid-Bounce
- 51.08, 52.09
- High-Bounce
- None
- Left-Handed
- None
- Grinds
- Standard Bevel
- Grooves
- Hydroflow Micro Grooves
- Finish
- Chrome, blue ion, raw
- Stock Shaft
- Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Stiff
- Shaft Length
- 35.25"
- Swingweight
- D4
What We Like
- Precision milling for consistent spin rates and control
- Hydroflow Micro Grooves enhance spin control
- Loft-specific sole grinds for custom options
- Exceptional feel thanks to copper underlay beneath the satin chrome finish
What Could Be Better
- Pricier than some of its competitors
The T20 Wedge comes in a range of loft options, allowing golfers to build a custom set that suits their game. The wedge's feel is exceptional, and we like using a copper underlay beneath the satin chrome finish. The extra softness created by the copper adds to the overall feel of the wedge, making it a joy to play with.
Cobra KING MIM
A versatile and powerful club that can take your short game to new heights
The Cobra KING MIM Wedge is a powerful and versatile club that is Cobra's most precise wedge in a one-length configuration. Featuring a Metal Injection Molded (MIM) construction, this wedge offers exceptional shot-shaping capabilities, making it a must-have for golfers who want more control over their shots around the green.
- Lofts Available
- 50°-54°, 56°-60°
- Low-Bounce
- --
- Mid-Bounce
- --
- High-Bounce
- --
- Left-Handed
- All
- Grinds
- Versatile, Classic, Widelow
- Grooves
- Precision CNC Milled
- Finish
- Chrome
- Stock Shaft
- Steel
- Shaft Flex
- Versatile Grind
- Shaft Length
- 37.50"
- Swingweight
- D4
What We Like
- MIM construction for a more precise and consistent clubhead
- Variable face milling pattern for enhanced spin and control
- Versatile Grind design for maximum shot-making capabilities
- Progressive Spin Technology for maximum spin and control on all shots
What Could Be Better
- Pricier than some of its competitors
The Cobra KING MIM is 100% metal injection molded using a mixture of superheated 304 stainless steel metal powder for a more even grain structure than either case or forged steel clubs. The result is one of the softest feels in any wedge, with extreme durability, and enviable consistency.
The face's grooves are precision-milled in a circular pattern for roughness and grip at every angle, which translates to less slip and better backspin. Cobra offers two versions of these grooves:
- Narrower, deeper grooves in 50-54 degree lofts
- Wider, shallower grooves in 56-60 degree lofts
The KING MIM only offers one grind—their Versatile Grind—designed for versatile play with heel and toe relief and a center notice to keep the leading edge closer to the ground and reduced bounce.
This gap wedge also comes equipped with Cobra Connect, an industry-leading stat tracking and performance management system.
Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal
A game-changer for golfers who want more distance and forgiveness.
The Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal Wedge is a game-changer for golfers looking to improve their short game. This club has been designed to provide the perfect combination of distance and forgiveness, making it an excellent choice for players who want to hit longer shots more accurately. Our take is that this wedge is a top pick for anyone looking to upgrade their gap wedge.
- Lofts Available
- 49 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- 49.07
- Mid-Bounce
- None
- High-Bounce
- None
- Left-Handed
- 49.07
- Grinds
- Leading edge and trailing edge relief
- Grooves
- Face milling lines
- Finish
- Pearl Brush
- Stock Shaft
- Nippon Modus 105 (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Wedge
- Shaft Length
- 35.25"
- Swingweight
- D4
What We Like
- High-strength Chromoly 4140M steel face for impressive ball speed and distance
- Harmonic Impact Technology for a solid, powerful sound and feel on impact
- Customizable with a range of loft and bounce options
- Spin Central technology for more consistent spin rates
What Could Be Better
- The wide sole may not be to everyone's liking
The Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal Wedge has a high-strength Chromoly 4140M steel face with impressive ball speed and distance. We like the Harmonic Impact Technology, which creates a solid, powerful sound and feel on impact. The wedges feature a wide sole, which enhances the club's forgiveness, making it easier to get the ball airborne from any lie.
One of the most impressive things about this wedge is how customizable it is. The club comes in a range of loft and bounce options, allowing golfers to tailor their wedge to their game. The club's Spin Central technology shifts the sweet spot higher up the clubface, resulting in more consistent spin rates, even on off-center hits. We also appreciate the club's anti-glare finish, which reduces distractions on sunny days.
Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Best Gap Wedges for Your Golf Game
As a golfer, you know how important it is to have the right club in your hand for each shot. Gap wedges are a crucial part of any golfer's bag, especially for those looking to improve their short game. But with so many options available, choosing the right gap wedge can be challenging. That's why Front Nine Golf has put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the best gap wedge for your game.
What is a Gap Wedge?
A gap wedge is a type of wedge with a loft between a pitching wedge and a sand wedge. These wedges are designed for shots from about 80-110 yards, making them a versatile tool for improving your short game. They come in various lofts, ranging from 46 to 54 degrees, and are usually between a standard iron length and a sand wedge length.
Why Do You Need a Gap Wedge?
Gap wedges are essential for golfers who want to improve their short game. With the right gap wedge, you can hit a wider variety of shots around the green, making it easier to get up and down for par. Whether you're looking to hit higher, softer shots or to get more spin, a gap wedge is a great tool to have in your bag.
How to Choose the Right Gap Wedge for Your Game
When it comes to choosing the right gap wedge, there are several factors you'll want to consider. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:
Loft
The loft of your gap wedge is the most crucial factor to consider. Gap wedges typically come in lofts ranging from 46 to 54 degrees, so you'll want to choose a loft that works well for your game. If you want to hit higher, softer shots, you'll want to select a higher loft. If you're looking for more spin, you'll want to choose a lower loft.
Bounce
Bounce angle is another essential factor to consider when choosing a gap wedge. The bounce angle influences the club's performance on various turf conditions and lies. Wedges with low bounce are suitable for tight lies and firmer turf, while those with high bounce perform better in soft conditions and fluffy lies.
Grind
Another essential factor to consider is the grind of your gap wedge. Grind refers to the shape of the club's sole, and different grinds are designed for different playing conditions. Some common grinds include low, mid, and full sole, each with advantages and disadvantages.
Shaft Material and Flex
Consider the shaft material (steel or graphite) and flex options (regular, stiff, senior) when choosing a gap wedge. Steel shafts are heavier and offer more control, while graphite shafts are lighter and can provide more distance. The shaft flex should be based on your swing speed and preference for feel and performance.
Custom Fitting
Getting custom-fitted gap wedges can ensure optimal performance based on your unique swing characteristics. Custom fitting considers factors like height, swing speed, and skill level to match you with the ideal wedge specifications.
Price Range
Gap wedges can range in price, so it's essential to consider your budget when deciding. Knowing the general price range will help you understand what to expect in terms of cost and make better-informed decisions.
Top Gap Wedge Brands
Several top brands produce excellent gap wedges. Here are some of the best brands to consider:
- Cleveland: Cleveland is known for producing high-quality wedges with excellent spin and control.
- Titleist: Titleist wedges are some of the most popular on the market thanks to their precision and versatility.
- Callaway: Callaway wedges are designed to be forgiving and easy to use, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
- TaylorMade: TaylorMade wedges offer excellent feel and control, making them a favorite among more experienced players.
- Mizuno: Mizuno wedges are known for their soft feel and exceptional spin, making them a popular choice for golfers of all skill levels.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gap wedge is an important decision that can significantly impact your short game. By considering factors such as loft, bounce, grind, shaft material, custom fitting, price range, and brand reputation, you can make a more informed choice and find the best gap wedge to elevate your performance on the golf course. Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a gap wedge that suits your specific needs and preferences, so don't be afraid to try different options before making your final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most common questions we're asked by golfers looking for the best wedges to improve their short game around the green.