Top 8 Best Lob Wedges of 2024: Lob It Like a Pro
Hit high soft shots like a pro with our expert-picked list
by Jake Tingey & Judd Lyon · Updated: 5/14/23
Welcome to our guide on the Best Lob Wedges of 2024! As avid golfers, we understand the importance of having the right equipment to help you play your best game. And when it comes to tackling those tricky greenside shots, a good lob wedge can make all the difference.
Did you know that a former NASA scientist invented the lob wedge? In the 1980s, golf greens were getting more challenging, with raised slopes and bunkers everywhere. Dave Pelz, the aforementioned NASA scientist, saw a need for a specialized wedge to handle these challenges and created the high-loft lob wedge for those arcing, high-flying shots that stick on impact.
At Front Nine, we've spent countless hours researching and evaluating the best lob wedges on the market to bring you this comprehensive guide. We aim to help you make informed buying decisions and choose the wedge to take your game to the next level. So, let's dive in and find the perfect lob wedge for you!
Titleist Vokey SM8 M-Grind
The most popular wedge on Tour
View at Amazon ↗ View at PGA Tour Superstore ↗At Front Nine, we love the versatility of the Vokey M-Grind wedge. With its pronounced heel, toe, and trailing edge grind, it offers high handicappers the ability to tackle a wide range of shots around the green. The fact that Bob Vokey loves this grind is just the cherry on top!
- Lofts Available
- 58-62 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- 58.08, 60.08, 62.08
- High-Bounce
- None
- Left-Handed
- All of them
- Grinds
- M-grind
- Grooves
- Spin Milled with microgrooves with heat treatment for durability
- Finish
- Jet Black, Tour Chrome, Brushed Steel
- Stock Shaft
- True Temper Dynamic Gold S200 (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Stiff
- Shaft Length
- 35.25"
- Swingweight
- D5
What We Like
- Popular on Tour
- Trusted by pros
What Could Be Better
- Pricey
- May not suit all players' preferences
If you're looking for a one-stop-shop lob wedge, the Vokey SM8 M-Grind is a fantastic choice. Designed by a seasoned golfer, trusted by the pros, and made by one of the leading brands in the game, this wedge can handle almost any approach shot you throw its way. And with its versatility, you can feel confident tackling any shot, whether you need to hit it low and skipping or high and lofting.
Titleist Vokey SM8 K-Grind
The preferred wedge of Tour pros Justin Thomas, Adam Scott and Webb Simpson
View at Amazon ↗ View at PGA Tour Superstore ↗The highest-bounce wedge in the Vokey SM8 lineup (14 degrees), the K-grind has a wide, full sole with enhanced camber and is the preferred wedge of Tour pros Justin Thomas, Adam Scott, and Webb Simpson.
- Lofts Available
- 58-60 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- None
- High-Bounce
- 58.14, 60.14
- Left-Handed
- Both
- Grinds
- K-grind
- Grooves
- Spin Milled with microgrooves with heat treatment for durability
- Finish
- Jet Black, Tour Chrome, Brushed Steel
- Stock Shaft
- True Temper Dynamic Gold S200 (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Stiff
- Shaft Length
- 35"
- Swingweight
- D5
What We Like
- Wide, full sole for enhanced forgiveness
- High-bounce for soft playing conditions
- Great for golfers who dig up the turf
- Part of a reputable and trusted lineup
What Could Be Better
- Not ideal for firmer playing conditions
- May not be suitable for golfers who prefer a lower bounce wedge
- Higher price point compared to some other options
If you're looking for a forgiving lob wedge for soft playing conditions, including sand, then the Vokey SM8 K-Grind was made for you. It has the same tech and reputation as other clubs in the Vokey SM8 lineup but offers the most forgiveness and is great for golfers who routinely dig up the turf.
TaylorMade Milled Grind 2
The TaylorMade MG2 jams a lot of tech into a simple-looking wedge
View at Amazon ↗ View at PGA Tour Superstore ↗The upgraded version of the original Milled Grind was first released in 2017; the Milled Grind 2 is available from 48-60 degrees of loft. Its signature feature is TaylorMade's new ZTP RAW grooves, which provide more friction points for improved backspin and control.
- Lofts Available
- 58-60 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- 58.08, 60.08
- High-Bounce
- 60.10, 58.11, 58.12, 60.12
- Left-Hand
- 60.08, 60.12, 60.12
- 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
- 35-35.25"
- Swingweight
- D5
What We Like
- Precision-milled sole for consistency
- New ZTP RAW grooves for improved backspin and control
- Wide variety of lofts and grinds for golfers of all handicaps
What Could Be Better
- Satin chrome finish may cause glare
- May be too tech-heavy for some golfers who prefer a more traditional look
While TaylorMade's new ZTP RAW grooves stand out as a noticeable improvement over the original, the best feature of the Milled Grind 2 is right in the name: the precision-milled sole, which ensures consistency with every club so the specs you want are the specs you get.
It also comes with different finishes: matte black and satin chrome. Typically, the chrome finish leads to plenty of glare, especially with a brand-new club, but the ZTP RAW face minimizes that. Plus, the grooves rust beautifully for both improved performance and superb aesthetics.
The other notable change from the original Milled Grind is a thicker face, measuring 6.5 mm compared to 5.1 mm with the previous generation. Paired with a TPU insert in the back cavity, the MG2 offers a more solid, positive feel at impact with a more forward center of gravity.
The TaylorMade MG2 jams a lot of tech into a simple-looking wedge and comes in a wide variety of lofts and grinds for golfers of all handicaps.
TaylorMade Milled Grind Hi-Toe
Gliding performance on extreme flop shots
View at Amazon ↗ View at PGA Tour Superstore ↗The TaylorMade Milled Grind Hi-Toe expands upon the Milled Grind 2 with a larger toe that stretches 5 mm higher and offers a higher 64-degree loft option with TaylorMade's ATV grind for gliding performance on extreme flop shots.
- Lofts Available
- 58-64 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- 60.09, 58.10, 60.10
- High-Bounce
- 58.12, 60.12, 64.12
- Left-Handed
- 58.12, 60.12, 58.15, 60.15
- Grinds
- Standard, 4-way camber, ATV, wide C-grind
- Grooves
- Traditional, full-face, full-face raw
- Finish
- Bronze, full-face raw
- Stock Shaft
- KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 (steel), Recoil Wedge Shaft with SMACWRAP (graphite)
- Shaft Flex
- Wedge (steel, graphite)
- Shaft Length
- 35-35.25"
- Swingweight
- D3 (graphite), D5 (steel)
What We Like
- Larger toe for a larger face
- KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 wedge flex shaft for better tip action
What Could Be Better
- May take time to get used to the different feel
TaylorMade's Milled Grind Hi-Toe wedges are designed for maximum versatility with several features every golfer should love:
- 5 mm elevated toe (hence the name) for a larger face, higher center of gravity, and more spin
- Full-face scoring lines on 56-64 degree lofts (traditional scoring on 50-54)
- KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 wedge flex shaft for better tip action
Over the years, TaylorMade's Milled Grind wedges have become increasingly popular, and they've continued to expand their selection by developing niche variations. Currently, TaylorMade makes three types of Hi-Toe wedges, which feature four types of soul grind:
- Standard Grind: All-purpose for most playing surfaces and play styles
- 4-Way Cambered Grind: Blunter contour, increased trailing edge, and more heel relief
- ATV Grind: Mid-sole channel and high bounce for gliding contact
- Wide C-Grind: Flatter, wider, 32 mm sole for enhanced playability on tough surfaces
Milled Grind Hi-Toe
The original Hi-Toe model ranges from 50-64 degrees of loft and 9-12 degrees of bounce, with three different grinds available on the following lofts:
- Standard Grind: 50-54 degrees
- 4-Way Cambered Grind: 56-60 degrees
- ATV Grind: 58-64 degrees
Milled Grind RAW Face Hi-Toe
Like the TaylorMade Milled Grind 2, the Milled Grind RAW Face Hi-Toe features a rougher face with more friction on contact, less slip, and better spin. It only comes with lob wedge lofts, both 58 and 60 degrees, with 9-12 degree bounce and three different grinds:
- Standard Grind: 60 degrees
- 4-Way Cambered Grind: 60 degrees
- ATV Grind: 58-60 degrees
Milled Grind Hi-Toe Big Foot
The Hi-Toe Big Foot has a flatter, asymmetric, 32 mm Wide C-Grind sole with a rounded leading edge and 15 degrees of bounce to improve playability from the sand and rough. It comes in 58 and 60 degrees of loft and either a D3 graphite or D5 steel shaft and features the full-face scoring lines of every other Hi-Toe wedge (except the original, lower-loft Hi-Toe gap wedges).
Callaway MD5
A popular choice for both amateurs and pros alike
View at PGA Tour Superstore ↗ View at Amazon ↗"The most aggressive groove in golf," according to Callaway, the Callaway Mack Daddy 5 features the JAWS groove-in-groove design with 84 points of contact for improved friction and better backspin. The MD5 introduces a new raw finish for a better feel and less glare and is a popular choice for both amateurs and pros alike.
- Lofts Available
- 58-60 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- 58.08, 60.08
- High-Bounce
- 58.12, 60.12
- Left-Handed
- 58.08, 58.12, 60.12
- Grinds
- C-grind, S-grind, X-grind, W-grind, W-grind (low bounce)
- Grooves
- JAWS groove design
- Finish
- Platinum Chrome, Tour Grey
- Stock Shaft
- True Temper Tour Issue 115 (steel), Project X Catalyst 80 (graphite)
- Shaft Flex
- Stiff (steel, graphite)
- Shaft Length
- 35-35.25"
- Swingweight
- D4
What We Like
- Aggressive JAWS groove design
- Raw finish for better feel and less glare
- Popular among both amateurs and pros
What Could Be Better
- Less forgiving on off-center shots
Callaway's high-end offering, the Mack Daddy 5 lob wedge offers a supremely satisfying experience that makes solid shots feel crisp with just enough feedback on mishits so you can tell what to improve for next time.
The signature feature of the Callaway MD5 is the JAWS groove design, which uses micro-positive ridges and 84 total points of contact for tons of friction and elite backspin, even for beginners and high handicappers. It's almost like having razors on your club, so bring plenty of balls.
And with five different sole grinds for all sorts of playing conditions, all of which are available on lob wedge lofts, there's a Mack Daddy wedge with your name on it:
- C-Grind: Increase heel and toe relief and 8 degrees of bounce
- S-Grind: Medium-width sole with slight camber at the back and 10 degrees of bounce
- X-Grind: Aggressive C-grind with more heel and toe relief and 12 degrees of bounce
- W-Grind: Wider center and toe area with moderate heel relief, generous camber, and 12 degrees of bounce
- W-Grind (Low Bounce): Same idea as the standard W-grind but with 8 degrees of bounce
If you're looking for one club to improve your spin overnight, you want the Callaway Mack Daddy 5.
Callaway PM Grind
The "PM" stands for "Phil Mickelson"
View at Amazon ↗Callaway partnered with Phil Mickelson to create a wedge that makes it easier to hit the three shots Lefty thinks every golfer should master: knockdowns, short pitch shots, and flop shots. The result is the Callaway PM Grind ("PM" for "Phil Mickelson"), which comes in five lofts, including 54-56 degree sand wedges and 58-64 degree lob wedges.
- Lofts Available
- 58-64
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- None
- High-Bounce
- 64.10, 58.12, 60.12
- Left-Handed
- 58.12, 60.12
- Grinds
- C-grind
- Grooves
- Groove-in-groove design with micro-grooves offset at 20-degree angle
- Finish
- Platinum Chrome, Tour Grey
- Stock Shaft
- KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Wedge
- Shaft Length
- 35-35.25"
- Swingweight
- D4
What We Like
- Designed for three essential shots
- C-grind sole for smooth turf interaction
- JAWS design for 12% more spin than predecessor
What Could Be Better
- Depends if you love or hate Lefty
The Callaway PM Grind features a C-grind sole with significant heel and toe relief for smooth, clean turf interactions, allowing you to make solid contact on all surfaces. It comes with the stock KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 wedge flex steel shaft with D4 swing weight for a more active tip and improved spin, aided by the same machined groove-in-groove JAWS design as the MD5 with 84 points of contact, which Callaway claims have resulted in 12% more spin than its predecessor.
The PM Grind is a Lefty-approved lob wedge for improved performance around the green, especially for beginners and high handicappers, and is one of the best lob wedges on the market.
Cleveland CBX 2
Delivers enough backspin to hit strong shots that amateur golfers want
View at Amazon ↗ View at PGA Tour Superstore ↗Tour-level spin and control for mid and high-handicappers with a great combination of features and tech with the forgiveness you need. That's the Cleveland CBX 2 in a nutshell.
- Lofts Available
- 58-60 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- None
- Mid-Bounce
- 58.10, 60.10
- High-Bounce
- None
- Left-Handed
- Both of them
- Grinds
- C-grind
- Grooves
- Full-face Rotex milling
- Finish
- Polished chrome
- Stock Shaft
- Dynamic Gold 115 (steel), Rotex Precision (graphite)
- Shaft Flex
- Wedge
- Shaft Length
- 35"
- Swingweight
- D2 (graphite), D4 (steel)
What We Like
- Offers tour-level spin and control
- Easy to play and comfortable to swing
What Could Be Better
- Only two options for lob wedges
The Cleveland CBX 2 line of wedges includes two lob wedges, both with 10 degrees of bounce, and a C-grind sole, which allows you to manipulate the face for a wide variety of shots.
The signature feature of the CBX 2 is its cavity-back design with additional weight in the toe, which increases the number of shots hit from the sweet spot by 25% and provides more forgiveness for those that don't. That's something amateur golfers need, but the CBX 2 still delivers enough backspin to hit strong shots that amateur golfers want.
If you're looking for an easy-to-play game improvement wedge that's comfortable to swing, forgiving, delivers strong spin rates, and is relatively affordable, add the Cleveland CBX 2 to your shortlist.
Cleveland RTX ZipCore
A smooth, comfortable, consistent playing experience
View at Amazon ↗ View at PGA Tour Superstore ↗The Cleveland RTX ZipCore replaces heavy steel with a lightweight core (does the name make sense now?) for a smooth, comfortable, consistent playing experience with improved control and spin.
- Lofts Available
- 58-62 degrees
- Low-Bounce
- 58.06, 60.06, 62.06
- Mid-Bounce
- 58.10, 60.10
- High-Bounce
- 58.12, 60.12
- Left-Handed
- All of them
- Grinds
- Low sole, mid sole, full sole
- Grooves
- Heat-treated UltiZip grooves
- Finish
- Black Satin, Tour Satin, Tour Rack (raw)
- Stock Shaft
- Dynamic Gold Spinner (steel)
- Shaft Flex
- Wedge
- Shaft Length
- 34.875"
- Swingweight
- D5
What We Like
- Clean, modern design
- Heat-treated face for added durability
- Lightweight core
What Could Be Better
- Only low-bounce option available in 62-degree loft
The only low-bounce lob wedge on our list, the Cleveland RTX ZipCore has a unique set of specs among lob wedges, including the stock Dynamic Gold Spinner wedge flex shaft under 35" in length. But that isn't the only standout feature, as the ZipCore is made with low-density steel that's a true joy to swing. They're also fun to look at, with a clean, modern design that hints at all of the golfing tech Cleveland crammed in.
The Cleveland RTX ZipCore also features Cleveland's new UltiZip grooves, which they claim are their sharpest grooves yet with deep channels that cut through the grass for added spin in harsh conditions. The whole face is heat-treated for added durability.
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)
All soles, including the low sole with 6 degrees of bounce, are available as 58-60 degree lob wedges. The 62-degree wedge is only offered with the low sole.
If you're looking for a game-improvement wedge that can transform your short game overnight, the Cleveland RTX ZipCore with the stock Dynamic Gold Spinner shaft is a winning choice and one of the best lob wedges on the market.
Lob Wedge Buyer's Guide: Key Features to Consider for Your Short Game
Lob wedges are one of the most versatile clubs in a golfer's bag and can help save strokes around the green. With the right lob wedge, you'll be able to confidently tackle a variety of shots, from high-flying flops to delicate chips and pitches. In this buyer's guide, we'll look at the key features to consider when choosing the best lob wedge for your game.
Loft and Bounce
The loft of a lob wedge ranges from 58 to 64 degrees, with higher lofts offering more height on shots. The amount of bounce a wedge has refers to the angle between the sole and the ground when the club is placed on a flat surface. Bounce ranges from 6 to 12 degrees and is crucial in determining how the club will perform on different types of lies.
Grind
The grind of a wedge refers to the shape of the sole and how it interacts with the ground. Different grinds are designed for different types of shots and playing conditions. Some common grinds include:
- C-Grind: Heel and toe relief with a curved sole, ideal for versatility on a variety of lies
- S-Grind: Medium-width sole with a slight camber, good for open-face shots
- X-Grind: Aggressive C-grind with more heel and toe relief, ideal for softer playing conditions
- W-Grind: Wider center and toe area with moderate heel relief, suitable for harsh playing conditions
Shaft
The shaft of a wedge is an essential factor in determining the feel and performance of the club. Wedges typically come with steel or graphite shafts, and there are different flex options to choose from, including:
- Stiff: Recommended for golfers with a faster swing speed or who want to hit lower shots
- Regular: Ideal for golfers with an average swing speed or who want a balanced feel
- Senior: Recommended for golfers with a slower swing speed or who want to hit higher shots
Custom Fitting
A custom fitting can help you find the perfect lob wedge tailored to your swing characteristics, skill level, and preferences. Make sure to get fitted by a professional to optimize your lob wedge's performance and consistency.
Lie Angle
The lie angle of a lob wedge affects the club's performance and can influence the direction of your shots. Select a lob wedge with the correct lie angle to ensure solid contact and accurate shots.
Finish
Lob wedges are available in various finishes, such as chrome, black, or raw. The finish can influence factors like glare, wear, and aesthetics. Choose a finish that appeals to your taste and performs well in various playing conditions.
Groove Volume
In addition to groove patterns and depths, the groove volume can also impact the spin and control of a lob wedge. Some manufacturers use different groove volumes to optimize performance based on loft.
Set Compatibility
It's important to consider how well the lob wedge integrates with your existing set of clubs. Ensure that the lob wedge you select complements your current set and fills gaps in your short game.
Forgiveness
Particularly for high-handicap and beginner golfers, a more forgiving design can help reduce the impact of mishits and improve overall consistency. Look for lob wedges that offer a balance of forgiveness and control to elevate your short game.
Price
Lob wedges can range from around $50 to $200 or more. Remember that the more features a wedge has, the higher the price. However, a high-quality wedge tailored to your game can make a big difference in your performance, so it's worth investing in a good one.
Popular Lob Wedge Brands
- Titleist: Titleist is a renowned name in the golf equipment industry, known for its quality products and innovative designs. Their Vokey Design lob wedges have consistently been among the top choices for both professional and recreational golfers. Designed by master craftsman Bob Vokey, these wedges offer a wide range of loft, bounce, and grind options to suit every player's needs. With advanced groove technology, Titleist lob wedges provide exceptional control and spin, allowing you to execute precise shots around the green.
- TaylorMade: TaylorMade is another well-established brand in the golf world, and their Milled Grind and Hi-Toe wedges have gained popularity among golfers of all levels. The Milled Grind wedges feature advanced milling techniques that ensure precise geometries and optimal turf interaction. On the other hand, the Hi-Toe wedge has a unique design that promotes increased spin and better control, particularly in challenging lies. TaylorMade's attention to detail and dedication to performance make their lob wedges a reliable choice for any golfer.
- Callaway: Callaway has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality golf equipment, and their lob wedges are no exception. The JAWS MD5 and Mack Daddy CB wedges offer premium materials, advanced groove technology, and versatile grind options. The JAWS MD5 wedges boast an innovative groove design that delivers increased spin and control, while the Mack Daddy CB wedges provide enhanced forgiveness for golfers who prioritize consistency. Regardless of your skill level, Callaway has a lob wedge to help elevate your short game.
- Cleveland: Cleveland Golf is well-known for its short-game equipment, particularly its RTX-4 and CBX 2 wedges. The RTX-4 wedges cater to better players, offering various grind options and advanced groove technology for enhanced spin and control. For those seeking more forgiveness, the CBX 2 wedges feature a cavity-back design and a wide sole that helps optimize turf interaction. Cleveland's commitment to short-game improvement makes their lob wedges a popular choice among golfers.
- PING: PING is a brand that consistently delivers high-quality golf clubs, and their Glide 3.0 and Glide Forged wedges are no exception. The Glide 3.0 wedges are designed with multiple sole grinds and groove patterns to cater to various playing styles and conditions. The Glide Forged wedges, on the other hand, offer a sleek and compact design with precision-milled grooves for enhanced control and spin. PING's commitment to performance and fitting makes their lob wedges a reliable option for golfers seeking to improve their short game.
- Mizuno: Mizuno has long been a respected name in the golf industry, and their T20 and ES21 wedges showcase their commitment to innovation and performance. The T20 wedges feature a teardrop-shaped head design with precisely milled grooves for exceptional control and spin. The ES21 wedges boast a unique wide sole design that promotes consistent ball striking and turf interaction, making them an excellent choice for golfers seeking forgiveness and versatility. Mizuno's blend of tradition and technology ensures that their lob wedges are a top choice for golfers who value aesthetics and performance.
- Cobra: Cobra Golf has a reputation for creating innovative and visually striking golf clubs, and their King MIM and King Cobra wedges are no exception. The King MIM wedges are made using Metal Injection Molding technology, which provides a precise and consistent shape, while their progressive groove design offers optimal spin and control. The King Cobra wedges feature a versatile sole grind and an aggressive groove pattern, making them well-suited for golfers seeking performance and versatility around the greens. Cobra's commitment to pushing boundaries in design and technology makes their lob wedges an excellent choice for golfers looking for something unique and compelling.
- Wilson Staff: Wilson Staff is a trusted name in golf equipment with a history of producing quality clubs at a more affordable price point. Their Staff Model and D7 wedges showcase this commitment to value and performance. The Staff Model wedges are forged from premium materials and feature precision-milled grooves for optimal spin and control. The D7 wedges, on the other hand, boast a more forgiving design with a wide sole and weight distribution that promotes stability and consistency. Wilson Staff's lob wedges are an excellent option for golfers who want top-notch performance without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
When selecting the perfect lob wedge for your game, consider factors such as loft, bounce, grind, shaft, custom fitting, lie angle, finish, groove volume, set compatibility, forgiveness, and price. Additionally, consider the various lob wedge offerings from popular brands like Titleist, TaylorMade, Callaway, Cleveland, PING, Mizuno, Cobra, and Wilson Staff. By considering these factors and comparing the different brands and models, you'll be able to find the ideal lob wedge to help you elevate your short game and save strokes around the green.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about lob wedges to help you make an informed decision when purchasing the best lob wedge for your game.