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Find the Best Pitching Wedge: Our Top 9 Picks for Recreational Golfers

Discover the top gap wedges to improve your short game and lower your scores. Find the best options for your swing and skill level.

by Jake Tingey & Judd Lyon · Updated: 5/28/23

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As experienced golfers, we know the importance of having a reliable pitching wedge in our bag. Wedge shots can make or break a round, and having control over distance and touch is key to making beautiful pitch shots that land close to the hole.

That's why having a well-made and durable pitching wedge is crucial. And while a pitching wedge is typically included in a standard set of irons, having a premium quality wedge that matches your golf set and suits your swing is always a good idea.

However, with so many options on the market, finding the best pitching wedge can be overwhelming. But don't worry. Our team of experts has tested, researched, and analyzed countless options to bring you our top picks. Whether you're a high or mid-handicapper, these are the best pitching wedges for all levels of players.

Related:

Best Budget WedgesBest Wedges for Mid-HandicappersBest Wedges for High-Handicappers
#1

Callaway JAWS MD5

Designed by Roger Cleveland, our top pick is without a doubt one of the best all-around wedges

Callaway JAWS MD5 product image
Callaway JAWS MD5
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Our top pick, the Callaway JAWS MD5, is designed by the legendary Roger Cleveland and is considered one of the best all-around wedges on the market. It's versatility, and top-notch performance makes it a standout in the crowded field of pitching wedges. Let's dive in to see what makes the Callaway JAWS MD5 a must-have for any golfer's bag.

What We Like

  • Aggressive groove design
  • Wide range of options
  • High precision with mini grooves

What Could Be Better

  • Some complain of heavier feel vs previous version

At Front Nine Golf, we're big fans of the Callaway JAWS MD5 pitching wedge. This club is designed to accommodate golfers of all skill levels, with a range of loft and bounce combinations, 5 grind options, and 3 finishes. One of the standout features of the MD5 is its aggressive groove design, which is a significant improvement over the MD4 version. The grooves now have a 37° wall angle, providing 32 more degrees of spin for short-game shots, making it easier to control your distance and touch.

We love the Callaway JAWS MD5 for its versatility and wide range of options. With different loft and bounce combinations, 5 grind options, and 3 finishes, this wedge is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. The MD5 has a more aggressive groove design than its predecessor, the MD4, which delivers more spin and control for your short-game shots. Plus, the mini grooves and 84 contact points add even more precision to your swings. We particularly recommend the low bounce W Grind on 58° and 60°, as well as the updated C Grind on 54°, 56°, 58°, and 60° lofts.

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#2

Callaway JAWS Full Toe

Designed to give golf players control on all wedge shots from the pitch, chip, bunker, to flop shots

Callaway JAWS Full Toe product image
Callaway JAWS Full Toe
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At Front Nine Golf, we're taking a closer look at the Callaway JAWS Full Toe Raw Face Wedge. According to Callaway, this club is designed to give golfers ultimate control on all wedge shots, from pitches and chips to bunker and flop shots.

What We Like

  • Taller, larger face
  • Groove-in-groove tech for spin

What Could Be Better

  • Only available in C Grind

One of the standout features of the JAWS Full Toe is its raw face, complemented by Jaw grooves across the face and Callaway's renowned offset groove-in-groove technology. These elements work together to deliver a larger surface area, making it easier to play out of bunkers.

We appreciate the design of the JAWS Full Toe, which is a bit taller and has a larger face than traditional wedges. This makes it a more advanced option for golfers and one that can be used by a wide range of players, including beginners. However, it's worth noting that the Full Toe design may be intimidating for those who are used to traditional wedges.

The JAWS Full Toe is available in five different loft and bounce combinations, including (54°L, 12°B), (56°L, 12°B), (58°L, 10°B), (60°L, 10°B), and (64°L, 10°B). It's only available in the C Grind, which may limit its versatility for some players.

The Callaway JAWS Full Toe Raw Face Wedge is a promising option for golfers who want improved control of their wedge shots, particularly when playing out of bunkers. However, the Full Toe design and limited grind options may not be suitable for everyone.

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#3

Titleist Vokey SM8 Wedge

The list of the best pitching wedges can’t be complete without the Vokey SM8 Wedge

Titleist Vokey SM8 Wedge product image
Titleist Vokey SM8 Wedge
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We're big fans of the Titleist Vokey SM8 Wedge. Known for its exceptional performance, this wedge is a staple in the world of golf, and it's no wonder why.

What We Like

  • Forgiving and accurate
  • Fine-tuned center of gravity
  • Available in six sole grinds

What Could Be Better

  • Not the cheapest

One of the standout features of the Vokey SM8 is its innovative center-of-gravity design. The CoG has been moved to the front of the wedge face, providing golfers better distance and stability. This makes the SM8 the most forgiving and accurate Vokey wedge yet.

In addition to its improved CoG, the Vokey SM8 boasts 100% inspected spin-milled grooves, which are cut to even tighter tolerances for maximum spin. The longer hosels and high-density tungsten help fine-tune the center of gravity location, ensuring more consistent and controlled shots every time.

Available in 6 sole grinds, the Vokey SM8 is a versatile option for golfers of all skill levels. With 46°, 48°, 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°, and 62° lofts available in left and right orientations, there's a Vokey SM8 wedge for everyone. And, with four different finishes, you're sure to find one that fits your style and preferences.

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#4

Taylormade Milled Grind 3

TaylorMade was only known for its drivers but now has some of the best wedges on the market

Taylormade Milled Grind 3 product image
Taylormade Milled Grind 3
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A step up from the MG2, this updated version features a teardrop shape and raw face that rusts over time, giving it a unique look. The raised micro-ribs and grooves provide elite spin performance, and the milled sole ensures maximum consistency.

What We Like

  • Raw face with unique rusting effect
  • Raised micro-ribs and grooves
  • Milled sole for maximum consistency

What Could Be Better

  • May not be suitable for golfers who prefer plated faces
  • Limited number of finishes available

Available in standard bounce, low bounce, high bounce, and a Tiger-inspired grind, the MG3 gives golfers a range of options to suit their game. Whether you prefer a 46° to 60° loft or a specific grind, this wedge will impress.

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#5

Cleveland RTX ZipCore

Features a low-density core which greatly affects the CoG adding to the wedge’s stability

Cleveland RTX ZipCore product image
Cleveland RTX ZipCore
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The Cleveland RTX ZipCore wedge is a true game-changer for golfers. It builds upon the success of the RTX4, offering an even better performance on the course. The standout feature of this wedge is its UltiZip grooves, which are 7.3% deeper, 11% sharper, and 7.3% closer together than previous generations, resulting in more spin and control. These grooves have been heat-treated for maximum durability, ensuring they perform just as well on the 100th shot as on the first.

What We Like

  • UltiZip grooves increase spin
  • Heat-treated grooves for durability
  • Ideal for medium to firm conditions

What Could Be Better

  • May not suit players seeking specific sole grinds.

If you're looking for a wedge to help you up your short-game game, the Cleveland RTX ZipCore is worth considering. With its low-density core, UltiZip grooves, and range of grind options, this wedge promises to deliver more control, spin, and versatility to your game.

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#6

Cleveland CBX ZipCore

If you are a fan of cavity-back irons owing to their forgiveness, you will love the CBX ZipCore

Cleveland CBX ZipCore product image
Cleveland CBX ZipCore
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The Cleveland CBX ZipCore is a must-have for golfers who love cavity-back irons for their forgiveness. This iteration of the popular CBX wedge line features a low-density core that shifts the center of gravity, increasing the MOI and reducing vibrations through a TPU insert. The wedge also boasts UltiZip Grooves that are deeper, sharper, and closer together, resulting in more spin.

What We Like

  • Forgiving face and sole
  • Wide range of lofts

What Could Be Better

  • Vibrations not dampened enough for some

We like the wide range of lofts available, from 44° to 60° at 2° increments, and the three sole grind options: V-Shaped (44° to 52° Lofts), S-Shaped Sole (54° to 56° Lofts), and C-Shaped Sole (58° to 60° Lofts). If you're looking for a forgiving pitching wedge, the Cleveland CBX ZipCore is a top pick in our book.

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#7

Cleveland Golf CBX 2

Cleveland Golf routinely scores in the equipment department and they nail it again with the CBX 2

Cleveland Golf CBX 2 product image
Cleveland Golf CBX 2
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The Cleveland Golf CBX 2 wedge is a versatile golf club designed to enhance your short game. With a range of loft options, including 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, and 60°, you can choose the one that fits your playing style. Additionally, the club is available with an alloy steel or graphite shaft, giving you more choices.

What We Like

  • Laser milling and Rote face design
  • Offers extra forgiveness and control

What Could Be Better

  • Limited to two sole grind options

We appreciate the hollow cavity design in the shaft, which shifts weight to the clubhead and provides more forgiveness, stability, and ease of use with each swing. Even if you're new to golf, the CBX 2 can help you improve your short game.

Regarding sole grinds, the CBX 2 wedge offers two options: the V-shaped sole is ideal for full shots on the turf, while the S-shaped sole is perfect for playing out of sand or deep rough. The C-shaped sole allows for further adjustments, making this wedge suitable for various playing conditions.

Finally, the laser milling and Rote face design, complete with grooves on the face, improve spin and control in your short game. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced golfer, the Cleveland Golf CBX 2 wedge is a solid choice for your short game.

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#8

Ping Glide 3.0 SS

A more forgiving and high spinning lightweight wedge that meets demands, including Tour Players

Ping Glide 3.0 SS product image
Ping Glide 3.0 SS
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The Ping Glide 3.0 SS wedge has been completely redesigned from the previous Glide 2.0 and meets the demands of golfers of all levels, including Tour players. The compact head size, cavity back design, and brushed silver finish are eye-catching, and the elastomer insert helps to reduce vibrations for a smooth feel.

What We Like

  • Lightweight
  • Cavity back design for improved stability

What Could Be Better

  • Higher lofted wedges may be challenging for full shots

One of the standout features of the Glide 3.0 is its precision-milled grooves. The grooves on the lower lofted wedges are less aggressive, making them perfect for full shots, while the higher lofted wedges have more aggressive grooves, providing enhanced spin for partial shots. With four grind options, including standard, thin, wide, and Eye2, this wedge is versatile and suitable for a wide range of playing conditions.

If you are looking for a high-spinning, lightweight wedge that is both forgiving and versatile, the Ping Glide 3.0 SS should be on your list.

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#9

Mizuno T22

A forged pitching wedge that stands out from the brand offerings of Cleveland, Vokey, and Callaway

Mizuno T22 product image
Mizuno T22
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The Mizuno T22 is a forging wedge that stands out in the market, offering a unique alternative to the offerings of brands like Cleveland, Vokey, and Callaway. Available in chrome, copper, or raw finish, the T22 promises a high level of feedback, with a copper microlayer beneath the top finish in the non-raw models.

What We Like

  • Forged construction for premium feel
  • Available in chrome, copper, or raw finish

What Could Be Better

  • Not beginner-friendly
  • Less popular brand means fewer reviews

Regarding its sole grinds, the Mizuno T22 offers 4 options: S Grind, D Grind, C Grind, and X Grind. The S Grind is best for full shots, the C Grind for skilled players, and the X Grind for the short game. With 18 loft options ranging from 45° to 62° in increments of 1°, this wedge offers a wide range of choices for players of all levels.

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Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Best Pitching Wedge

In golf, your short game is just as important as your long game. A good wedge can make all the difference in your score and help you get out of tight spots on the course. That's why choosing the right pitching wedge is so important. Here are some things to consider when making your choice.

Know Your Handicap Level

The first thing you need to determine is your handicap level. Beginners typically have a higher handicap, meaning they need more forgiveness in their shots. Experienced players generally have a lower handicap and can afford a less forgiving club.

Grind Options

Wedge grinds refer to the shape and design of the sole. Different grinds are suited for different types of shots and turf conditions. The most common grinds are the C-grind, S-grind, and D-grind. The C-grind is best for full shots, and the S-grind is best for sand and rough. The D-grind is a versatile option that works well in various situations.

Loft Options

Wedge lofts determine the trajectory and height of your shots. Higher lofts result in higher shots, and lower lofts result in lower shots. The most common lofts for pitching wedges are from 46° to 60°, with increments of 2°. Consider your swing speed and shot trajectory when choosing a loft.

Material

Most wedges are made of either carbon steel or stainless steel. Carbon steel is soft and provides a good feel, while stainless steel is harder and more durable. If you're looking for a softer feel, choose a carbon steel wedge. If you're looking for more durability, choose a stainless steel wedge.

Shaft Options

The shaft is part of the club that connects the clubhead to the grip. Most wedges come with either steel or graphite shafts. Steel shafts are heavier and provide more stability, while graphite shafts are lighter and provide more feel. Consider your swing speed and personal preference when choosing a shaft.

Brand

Finally, consider the brand of the wedge you're interested in. Major golf brands like Callaway, Cleveland, Ping, TaylorMade, Mizuno, and Titleist all offer high-quality wedges. Consider the brand's reputation and read reviews from other golfers to make the best decision.

Conclusion

When choosing a pitching wedge, consider your handicap level, grind options, loft options, material, shaft options, and brand. With these factors in mind, you'll be able to find the perfect wedge to help improve your short game.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following FAQ answers some of the most common questions about pitching wedges.

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