Best Gap Wedges for 2023 to Improve Your Short Game

Looking to improve your short game? Check out our top picks for the best gap wedges of 2023. Expert reviews and tips to help you score lower on the greens.

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As avid golfers, we know that the short game is where scores are made and lost - and one of the most critical clubs in your bag for those crucial shots around the green is the gap wedge. A good gap wedge can help you get the ball closer to the pin, and in turn, save you precious strokes on the scorecard.

That's why we have extensively researched and evaluated the best gap wedges to help you level up your short game. Our expert team has scoured the market to find the top picks for gap wedges that are going to make a real difference in your performance. From the latest models to proven classics, we've got you covered.

In this article, we'll give you all the information you need to make an informed decision on which gap wedge is right for you. We'll break down the important features, including loft, bounce, and grind, and how they can affect your shots around the green. Read on to discover the best gap wedges of 2023 to take your short game to the next level.

Our Pick for Precision and Feel

Mizuno T20 Satin Chrome Wedge

A Must-have for the short game, offers excellent precision and feel around the green.

Mizuno T20 Satin Chrome Wedge product image
Mizuno T20 Satin Chrome Wedge · Check Current Price

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, which is
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 the use of 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.

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The Best Choice for Distance and Forgiveness

Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal

A game-changer for golfers who want more distance and forgiveness.

Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal product image
Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal · Check Current Price

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 with more accuracy. 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 that offers 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.

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The Best Wedge for Spin and Control

Cleveland RTX ZipCore

Offers exceptional spin and control, making it our top pick for precise shots around the green

Cleveland RTX ZipCore product image
Cleveland RTX ZipCore · Check Current Price

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.

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The Ultimate Wedge for Shot Shaping

Cobra KING MIM

A versatile and powerful club that can take your short game to new heights

Cobra KING MIM product image
Cobra KING MIM · Check Current Price

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, 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 for the ground and reduced bounce.

This gap wedge also comes equipped with Cobra Connect, an industry-leading stat tracking and performance management system.

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The Best Wedge for Versatility and Consistency

TaylorMade Milled Grind 2

Tried-and-true and our top pick for golfers who want a reliable and flexible club

TaylorMade Milled Grind 2 product image
TaylorMade Milled Grind 2 · Check Current Price

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.

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The Best Wedge for Forgiveness and Playability

Callaway Mack Daddy CB

A club that makes it easy to find the sweet spot

Callaway Mack Daddy CB product image
Callaway Mack Daddy CB · Check Current Price

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

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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 a challenge. 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 a variety of 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'll be able to 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 important 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're looking to hit higher, softer shots, you'll want to choose a higher loft. If you're looking for more spin, you'll want to choose a lower loft.

Grind

Another important factor to consider is the grind of your gap wedge. Grind refers to the shape of the sole of the club, and different grinds are designed for different playing conditions. Some common grinds include low, mid, and full sole, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Length

The length of your gap wedge is also an important factor to consider. Gap wedges are typically between a standard iron length and a sand wedge length, so you'll want to choose a length that feels comfortable for you.

Brand

There are several top brands that produce excellent gap wedges. Here are some of the best brands to consider:

Conclusion

Elevating your short game requires having the right tools in your bag, and a gap wedge is an essential club for any golfer. With our top picks for the best gap wedges for 2023, you can choose the perfect club to help you take your game to the next level. From the versatility of the TaylorMade Milled Grind 2 to the forgiveness of the Callaway Mack Daddy CB, these wedges will provide the precision and control you need to make accurate shots from short distances.

We hope this article has been helpful in guiding you towards the best gap wedge for your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consider important features like loft, bounce, grind, and grip when making your decision, and don't be afraid to try out different brands and models until you find the wedge that works best for you. Here's to a successful and enjoyable year on the course!


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.

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