You may think that you can fill up the necessity of a sand wedge with other wedges. But that’s not the case. Unlike other wedges of your golf club set, a sand wedge is designed to get your golf ball out of the sand bunkers without much digging. Not only that, it offers flexibility on your short approach shots, especially those around the green. A sand wedge also lets you experience a variety of shots that helps you enjoy more.
But picking a random sand wedge may leave you disappointed during the game. So, which one should you get for yourself? Don’t worry! We have got a quick solution for you. We have picked up the 10 best sand wedges after long research and analysis. And also added the buying guide and FAQs to help you understand how to choose the best one.
Furthermore, in every sand wedge review, we have pointed out both benefits and concerns to help you find the ideal one for you. So, let’s go and find out the best sand wedge for you.
Table of Content
10 Best Sand Wedges Review
1. Callaway Mack Daddy CB
If you are looking for a sand wedge with enhanced forgiveness, then Callaway Mack Daddy CB is the one for you. The wide sole design and cavity back of this wedge help to balance the effect of a bad swing and mishit. Not only that, you have the option to choose from graphite and steel shafts. You can add some extra forgiveness by choosing the graphite one that comes at the same price as the steel one. Thus, it is excellent for those who have a mid or high handicap. It will play a significant role in improving the game.
There is also a broad range of loft and bounce combinations available for you to choose from. As a result, you won’t have to worry much about the gapping. In addition, the JAWS grooves provide better control, spin, and consistency. But the concern is that this sand wedge’s feel may seem average to you because of the increased forgiveness.
Things we liked
- Enhanced forgiveness
- Consistent feel
- Better control and spin rate
- Available in a wide range of loft and bounce combinations
- You have the option to choose graphite or steel shaft
Things that can be improved
- It may get a little hard to work the ball
- Though you will get a consistent feel, it may seem average to you
Final thoughts
Callaway Mack Daddy CB is mainly recommended for its forgiveness. However, it is also recommended for the broad range of options available for the loft, bounce, and shaft.
You May Also Like: Callaway Mack Daddy 5 Jaws Wedge Review
2. Ping Glide 3.0
Ping Glide 3.0 is one of the best sand wedges for its higher spin rate. The deep and sharp grooves provide a higher spin for improved performance. The aggressiveness of the patented, wheel-cut grooves design is appropriately balanced in both lower and higher lofted options. The extra hosel offset is also a factor that increases the spin.
You have 4 different grind options to choose from. That makes it fit for all golfers regardless of skill level.
The lighter shaft of this sand wedge is easier to swing. In addition, you will have better control because of the longer grip. This makes it more versatile too. But the downside is, the shaft may seem much lighter to you if you usually prefer playing with heavy shafts.
Things we liked
- Fit golfers of all abilities
- Amazing spin rate
- Lighter shaft
- A longer grip offers more versatility and control
- 4 different grind options
- Offers more forgiveness
- Soft and solid feel
Things that can be improved
- The shaft may seem too light
- You may not get a higher launch
- The sound may not be satisfying to you
Final thoughts
Ping Glide 3.0 is recommended for all golfers, no matter what the skill level is. It is also suggested if you are looking for a higher spinning sand wedge.
3. Callaway Jaws MD5
Callaway put the focus on the spin control while engineering the Jaws MD5. With one of the sharpest grooves designs on the market, this sand wedge offers a significant level of spin and grip. That, too, is in almost all types of lies. The spin on longer pitch shots and full shots are especially impressive. In addition, there are 23 lofts and bounce combination options. That can come in 5 grinds. This makes Jaws MD5 suitable for you regardless of the club set you are using.
The traditional look and shape of this sand wedge let you enhance the game with more confidence. In addition, it has a very sharp leading edge. That offers a significant role in clean contact with the ball while hitting. But the concern is, it also needs you to be an accurate striker and may increase the possibility of fat shots.
Things we liked
- An all-round wedge
- Excels at generating more spin
- Maximum grip
- Premium look
- Soft feel
- Various combination options available to suit all the golfers
Things that can be improved
- May increase fat shots
- The hosel area may seem much taper to you
- The tour grey finish may wear off quickly
Final thoughts
Callaway Jaws MD5 is recommended if you are looking for maximum grip and spin on your sand wedge. It is also suggested as an all-around wedge for its overall performance.
4. C3i Wedge – Premium Sand Wedge
C3i Wedge is a premium sand wedge that stands out from our other best sand wedges for its unique look. The classical shape and sleek black design give it a smooth and modern look. The stainless steel shaft design makes it durable as well. For loft, you have 3 options to choose from; 55 degrees, 59 degree, and 65 degree.
The extra-wide and auto-glide sole helps to take shots without digging into the sand. And it also balances the after-effects of a bad shot. You can also take effective short approach shots around the green with it. This sand wedge is fit for 40- 65 yards shots depending on the loft angle you choose. The smaller the angle is, the more distance it will cover—the extra curve and beveled leading edge help make clean contact with the golf ball. As there is no option to choose a graphite shaft, you won’t have the advantage of added swing speed.
Things we liked
- Unique look
- Forgiving
- Durable
- Ease of swing
- Reduce the interaction with the ground
- An excellent choice for mid and low handicappers
- Suitable for very short approach shots around the green
- Fit for both men and women
Things that can be improved
- Less versatility in shots
- May not be beneficial for low handicappers
- May seem too heavy to you
- No option to choose a graphite shaft
Final thoughts
C3i Wedge – Premium Sand Wedge is recommended for bunker shots and short approaches. Either you are a man or woman, a mid or high handicapper, this sand wedge is suggested for all.
5. Cleveland Golf CBX 2 Wedge
Cleveland Golf CBX 2 wedge is the best sand wedge for overall performance. It comes with a hollow cavity design. That increases forgiveness and helps you to hit more shots from the sweet spot. The fourth-generation rotex face technology offers added spin rate and control over the short game. In addition, it comes with Gelback TPU insert that reduces the vibration and lets you enjoy a pure feel.
This sand wedge has a sole dynamic design with different grind options. Though there are several options to choose the loft, shaft, and flex according to your preference, this sand wedge doesn’t give you an option to choose the bounce. So you have to go with the featured one.
Things we liked
- Best for overall performance
- More forgiveness
- Crisp and soft feel
- Amazing spin and control
- Comparatively easy to use
- You can choose the loft and shaft according to your preferences
- 3 different sole grind options
Things that can be improved
- There may be a slight loss of feel if you are used to bladed sand wedge
- No bounce angle option
- You may find it a bit bulky if you are a low handicapper
Final thoughts
Cleveland Golf CBX 2 wedge is recommended for its overall performance, including more forgiveness, spin rate, feel, etc. It is also suggested for its ease of use.
6. Square Strike Wedge
If you struggle with chip shots or the chunks or fat shots, then Square Strike wedge is the one for you. The clubhead design balances the effect of hand movements to help you avoid fat and thin chip shots. At the same time, the wide outsole and beveled edge make it a great choice to get the ball out of the sand. It also allows you to hit fewer fat shots.
This sand wedge has a bit longer grip than traditional ones. That lets you hold the club properly and comfortably. Thus, you can strike a more efficient shot. It is for you if you prefer a straightforward approach. But keep in mind that it is lighter in weight and has a different shape than the traditional sand wedges. Thus, you may take some time to get used to this. Also, the lie of this sand wedge is not designed to achieve full swing.
Things we liked
- Affordable
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
- Reduces fat and thin shots
- High forgiveness
- Designed for both men and women
- Available in black and green color
Things that can be improved
- Not ideal for full shots
- It may seem lighter than traditional ones
- Less spin rate than traditional wedges
- You may take some more time than usual to get used to the shape and use
Final thoughts
Square Strike Wedge is recommended for avoiding fat shots. It is also suggested if you are struggling with chip shots.
7. Honma TW- W4
Honma TW- W4 has elegant curves and a hand-shaped profile created by master craftsmen in Sakata, Japan. This makes it stand out among our best sand wedges. It has a cross-milled face with a polished finish. The stylish back design helps to balance the weight. In addition, the wide and deep groove design generates more spin.
This sand wedge has a wide range of loft options. In lower lofts, the CG is low too. That offers a great feel at the impact on full shots. At the same time, the CG is high in the higher loft to increase feel, control, and forgiveness. But the concern is, there is no left-hand option for this sand wedge.
Things we liked
- Elegant look
- Amazing feel
- Increased spinning rate
- Clean turf interaction
- Available in different lofts
Things that can be improved
- Only available for right-handers
- It may seem a bit heavy
- Limited bounce options
Final thoughts
Honma TW- W4 is recommended for the fantastic feel and spin on full shots. It is also suggested for its handsome finish.
Check Price at PGA Tour Superstore
8. TaylorMade Golf MG2 Wedge
TaylorMade Golf MG2 is a combination of simplicity and elegance. Right now, it’s Amazon’s Choice with an excellent rating. This sand wedge comes with a raw finish face with deeper cut grooves and laser etching between the grooves. These ensure more spin by increasing friction no matter what the situation is. In comparison, milled sole grind helps you to perform better in all types of lies. The TPU insert dampens the vibration and gives you a feel of impact.
The milled sole easily glides through the sand and allows you to get the ball out of the bunkers quickly. This also offers consistency in shots. But the concern is, it may damage the ball and leave marks on the clubface as the raw face is a bit aggressive.
Things we liked
- Amazing spin
- Solid and positive feel
- Suitable for all types of lie
- More consistency
- Clean and modern look
- Available in both black and chrome colors
Things that can be improved
- May damage your golf ball
- No different grind options to choose from
- May not be a suitable choice for high handicappers
Final thoughts
TaylorMade Golf MG2 wedge is recommended if you are looking for more spin, positive feel, and consistency. It is mainly suggested for the low handicappers.
9. Mizuno T20 Golf Wedge
Mizuno T20 is one of the best feeling sand wedges among our top sand wedges list. The shaft and leading-edge design deliver a soft feel. While CNC milled grooves offer a consistent feel and performance. As these are Hydroflow Micro Grooves, they also help to control the spin even in wet conditions.
The performance and feel and the looks of this sand wedge are also worth standing out. Though it has different style options, the blue- ion is more eye-catchy. In addition, it has a unique look that stands out among our best sand wedges. There is also a wide range of loft and bounce is available for you to choose from. But there are no grind options. And it is comparatively expensive than other sand wedges.
Things we liked
- Better spin performance even in wet conditions
- Better control over the ball
- Enhanced touch and feel
- More forgiving
- Available in a wide range of lofts and 2 stylish looks
Things that can be improved
- Comparatively expensive
- No sole grind options
- Not suggested for full swing shots
Final thoughts
Mizuno T20 golf sand wedge is recommended for its outstanding performance in different conditions. It is also suggested for better control and more spin.
10. Cleveland RTX ZipCore
Cleveland RTX ZipCore is one of the highest spinning wedges in the market with a classic look. The Ultizip grooves of this sand wedge are deeper, sharper, and narrower. That helps to generate more spin. It also offers added control over the golf ball. Whereas the less dense core delivers added spin and consistency.
It comes with a heat treatment process that balances heat across the clubface. And keeps the grooves sharp for longer and increases the durability. The weight and design ensure a solid yet soft feel on every shot you make. Though this wedge has a wide range of loft options to fit into your club set, it doesn’t give you the option to choose the bounce.
Things we liked
- Helps to generate more spin
- Better contact with the ball
- Soft feeling
- A significant level of forgiveness
- Consistent performance
- Durable
- Increased control over the game
Things that can be improved
- No option to choose different bounce
- The leading edge may seem less straight to you
Final thoughts
Cleveland RTX ZipCore is recommended for its enhanced spin rate. It is also suggested for the heat treatment process that makes it more durable.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Sand Wedge
Just because your friend or your senior is doing well with their new sand wedge, that doesn’t mean the same model will help you perform better too. Depending on your club set, handicap, and many more things, you may require a different one to play your best.
So, which sand wedge to buy? Because different manufacturers have different designs. Even the same brand has different types of sand wedges. On top of that, there are many terms like ‘loft angle,’ ‘bounce,’ and so on. Let us make that a little bit easier for you. We have narrowed down the essential things to keep in mind before buying the best sand wedges. Let’s go through it and find the right one for you.
Loft: Choose one with a proper gapping
What loft is needed for your sand wedge? Well, a sand wedge usually has a loft of 54° – 58° on average. The more the loft angle is, the higher the ball flies and the lesser distance it covers.
Which one is good for you depends on the wedge set you have. It would be best if you chose it, keeping a balance with other wedges. It is better to keep the loft gap less than 4° to make your game more precise. For example, if your pitching wedge is 48° and your gap wedge is 52°, then a 56° sand wedge is good to go for you. So, choose your one accordingly.
Bounce: The higher, the better for fluffy sand or tall grass
Now that you know about the term that helps the ball fly higher let’s learn about the term that helps the club slide into the sand smoothly. It’s called ‘bounce.’ In a golf club’s specifications, ‘ bounce’ commonly refers to bounce angle. It is more critical in wedges than in other clubs.
Sand wedges usually have a bounce angle of 10° – 16°. The higher the bounce is, the more smoothly the wedge slides through the sand and gets the ball out of the sand bunkers. This helps to prevent the wedge from sticking into the sand. In addition, a higher bounce gives you more control over your game by helping to generate more spin.
Forgiveness: Choose according to your handicap
‘This club has more forgiveness,’ ‘that wedge is more forgiving’; you might have already heard or seen these sentences. What is forgiveness? What does this specification have to do with a sand wedge?
Well, ‘forgiveness’ mainly prevents poor swing and poor contact with the golf ball. It helps you get the loft and spin you want from your sand wedge. Here the wider the sole is, the more forgiving the sand wedge becomes. If you are a high handicapper, more forgiveness of the sand wedge will help you get better scores. But remember that more forgiveness may make it harder to work the ball. And you won’t get the same feel from your shot.
Shaft: Graphite or steel
While choosing the shaft for your wedge, the choice is mainly between the steel shaft and graphite shaft. A graphite shaft provides extra forgiveness by minimizing the effect of mishits. It also balances the lack of swing speed. Thus, it is a proper choice for beginners. Most of the senior and women golfers clubs have graphite shafts for the added swing speed.
Whereas a steel shaft lets you have more control over the ball. That makes it a perfect choice for the low handicappers. Also, choose the same type of shaft that you have in your irons to maintain consistency in the game.
Remember that the ‘flex’ specification on the shaft makes it stiffer. So, keep all these facts in mind before picking a particular type of shaft for your sand wedge.
Groove: Make sure to choose the legal one
Groove is another important factor while buying a golf club. It is more like a tire tread on the club. It mainly keeps the grass or sand or anything away that comes in between the club’s contact and golf ball. That’s why it is more critical in sand wedges. This allows the mud or sand to move away quickly and provides cleaner contact. That increases friction for better control and spin rate. Make sure to choose the grooves that are legal under USGA rules.
Looks: One that goes with your style
A solid-looking sand wedge adds confidence to your game. See if the shaft, clubhead, hosel, and all the club joints feel solid to you or not. Weight is a factor too. Sand wedges are usually heavier than other clubs. This weight helps the ball to go up. Yet, too heavy sand wedges may make it harder for you to swing. So, choose one, keeping these factors in mind.
Feel: Get the one with the proper combination of weight, shape, and design
The feel of a sand wedge is essential. It gives you the confidence to go on with the game. It needs to provide you with a good feel on every shot. The sound needs to be satisfying. The combination of design, weight, and shape needs to be balanced for a solid feel. The sweet spot is also a factor. You get a solid feel when you properly hit the sweet spot. If you are a low handicapper, a concentrated sweet spot is what you should be looking for. At the same time, a large sweet spot is beneficial for high handicappers.
Price: Consider price when buying sand wedge
After buying the putter, driver, irons, and other wedges, you may fall short of budget. But the good news is, you can get a good sand wedge at an affordable price too. It is available in various price ranges. But remember that you get what you pay for. If you intend to develop your skill and play like professionals, you may need to spend at least $100 or more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sand Wedge
What wedge is a sand wedge?
A sand wedge is an iron that helps you get the golf ball out of the sand bunkers. You can also use them for short approach shots around 70- 110 yards on average. The loft of a sand wedge is usually 54° – 58°.
What are the characteristics of a sand wedge?
A sand wedge has a wider and heavier sole design. As a result, it comes with a higher bounce and loft angle. On average, the loft angle is 54°- 58°. At the same time, the bounce angle is generally 10°- 16° depending on different manufacturers. Another characteristic of a sand wedge is, these usually have a shorter shaft.
What is the degree of a sand wedge?
The degree for a sand wedge is 54° – 58° on average. That’s the loft angle of the wedge. More precisely, it’s 56° for most of the sand wedges. But this varies with the manufacturers and the club set you have got. So it should be somewhere in between your gap wedge and lob wedge degree.
When should you use a sand wedge?
A sand wedge is mainly for getting your golf ball out of the sand bunkers. But it’s not the only thing it does. You can use it when the ball is on muddy ground or rough. It performs pretty well to get you higher and softer shots on firm grass.
Conclusion
A top-quality sand wedge can get you out of the bunkers quickly. It also helps to take fewer shots around the green and win the games. But choosing the best from thousands of models is a tricky job. Thus, we have presented this article to help you find the best sand wedge. Hope it will be a bit easier for you now. Feel free to leave your opinions and inquiries in the comment section. It would be our pleasure to answer. Also, comment on the name of the best one according to you among our best sand wedges list.
Happy golfing.
