50 vs 52 Degree Wedge: Which Is Better for Your Game?

The advances in the design of wedges have changed the game of golf. Today, many golfers, pro and amateur alike, may find themselves with three or even four wedges in their bag.

Gap wedges, also known as approach wedges, are designed to bridge the loft gap between a player's pitching wedge and sand wedge. Typically, pitching wedges have lofts ranging from 44 to 48 degrees, while sand wedges are usually around 56 degrees. The gap wedge fills this void, providing golfers with more precise distance control for shots that fall between these two clubs.

Before choosing either of these clubs, look at your wedges and their lofts. Remember, you don’t want more than a 4-6 degree gap between them, and 4 degrees is the ideal option.

If you have a pitching wedge between 44 and 46 degrees, the 50-degree wedge would be better to cover the gap. If your pitching wedge is 48 degrees, then the 52-degree wedge would be better, and you can always add the fourth wedge if you need more options on the short game.

You also need to factor in whether you will add the lob wedge or not, since this will affect the choice of lofts in the wedge set you use.

If you stick with the 56-degree default loft on the sand wedge, you can still add the 52-degree gap wedge, but if you opt for the lower 54-degree sand wedge, then the 50-degree gap wedge would be the option.

If you are not going to add the lob wedge at this stage, start by looking at your pitching wedge loft and then work your way up to the gap wedge and sand wedge. Just keep that 4-degree gap between them

Understanding Gap Wedges

The 50-degree and the 52-degree wedges are considered gap wedges. The main difference between the two wedges is the loft and distance each achieves. The 50 degree will cover more distance than the 52-degree wedge, but will have a slightly lower trajectory.

It's worth noting that many golfers don't limit themselves to a single gap wedge. Some players choose to carry both a 50-degree and a 52-degree wedge, removing another club from their bag to accommodate this setup. This approach provides maximum versatility in the short game, but requires sacrificing a club elsewhere in the bag.

The 50-Degree Wedge

A 50-degree wedge is on the lower end of the gap wedge spectrum, offering a bit more distance and a slightly lower trajectory compared to its 52-degree counterpart. It provides more distance than a 52-degree wedge and offers a lower ball flight. This wedge typically produces more roll upon landing and is better suited for full shots from the fairway. It is ideal for golfers with a pitching wedge loft between 44-46 degrees. Players who prefer a more versatile club for both full shots and around the green will find this wedge useful. It is also well-suited for those who tend to hit their pitching wedge significantly farther than their sand wedge.

The 52-Degree Wedge

The 52-degree wedge offers a slightly higher loft, resulting in a higher ball flight and softer landing on the greens. It produces a higher ball flight than a 50-degree wedge and offers more spin and control around the greens. This wedge typically results in less roll upon landing and is versatile for both full shots and partial swings. It is ideal for golfers with a pitching wedge loft between 47-48 degrees. Players who prioritize control and precision in their short game will find this wedge beneficial. It is also well-suited for those who prefer a steeper angle of descent for their approach shots.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between 50 and 52 Degrees

Several factors should influence your decision when selecting between a 50-degree and 52-degree wedge:

Your Current Wedge SetupThe loft of your pitching wedge and sand wedge should guide your choice. Ideally, you want to maintain consistent 4-6 degree gaps between your wedges. For example:

• If your pitching wedge is 45 degrees and your sand wedge is 56 degrees, a 50-degree gap wedge would create even 5-degree spacing.
• If your pitching wedge is 48 degrees, a 52-degree gap wedge might be more appropriate to maintain consistent gaps.

Skill Level

Beginners and high-handicap players may benefit from the added distance and forgiveness of a 50-degree wedge. More experienced players might prefer the added control and versatility of a 52-degree wedge.

Course Conditions

Consider the types of courses you typically play. If you often encounter firm fairways and greens, a 50-degree wedge might be preferable for its lower trajectory and increased roll. For softer conditions or courses with elevated greens, the higher flight of a 52-degree wedge could be advantageous.

Personal Preferences and Swing Characteristics

Your natural ball flight and swing tendencies should also factor into your decision. If you tend to hit the ball high, a 50-degree wedge might help you achieve a more penetrating trajectory. Conversely, if you struggle with low ball flight, a 52-degree wedge could help you get the ball in the air more easily. 

Performance Comparison Between 50 and 52 Degrees Wedges

To better understand the practical differences between 50-degree and 52-degree wedges, let's examine their typical performance characteristics:

Distance:
On average, golfers hit their 50-degree wedge about 100-110 yards, while a 52-degree wedge typically carries 95-105 yards. However, these distances can vary significantly based on individual swing speeds and contact quality. 

This doesn’t seem like an overly massive difference, but in the short game, being 5 yards closer to the pin is the difference between par and birdie!

Not only that, but your ability to play short pitches, chips, and flop shots confidently will add a greater dimension to your game, so having wedges that work for you is crucial.

Trajectory:
The 52-degree wedge will generally produce a higher ball flight, which can be beneficial for stopping the ball quickly on the green. The 50-degree wedge's lower trajectory may be preferable in windy conditions or when more roll is desired.

Versatility:
Both wedges offer versatility, but in slightly different ways. A 50-degree wedge excels in full shots from the fairway and can be useful for longer chip shots. A 52-degree wedge provides more options around the green, including higher-lofted chip shots and pitch shots.

Spin:
The 52-degree wedge typically generates more spin due to its higher loft, which can be advantageous for controlling the ball on and around the greens.

Skill Level Considerations Before Making a Decision

When deciding between a 50-degree and a 52-degree wedge, golfers should carefully consider their skill level and specific needs on the course.

Another factor in creating your wedge configuration and whether you opt for a 50-degree or 52-degree wedge is knowing your approach game, your short game, and what kind of shots you prefer to hit.

For example, higher lofted wedges would be better if you prefer high trajectory shots that come down soft with a bit of roll-out. At the same time, if you prefer more roll-out and lower trajectory, then the lower lofted wedges are a better option.

For your higher trajectory shots, the 48-52-56 degree wedge configuration would be the first choice, with the option for the 60-degree lob wedge. In comparison, the lower trajectory shots would be better with the 46-50-54 degree set up with the 58-degree lob wedge as the fourth wedge option.

Beginners and high-handicap players may find the 50-degree wedge more forgiving and easier to hit consistently, as it offers a bit more distance and a lower trajectory. This can be beneficial for those still developing their short game skills.

More experienced or lower-handicap players might prefer the added precision and control of the 52-degree wedge, especially around the greens. These skilled golfers can take advantage of the higher ball flight and increased spin to execute a wider variety of shots.

Ultimately, the choice depends on the golfer's ability to consistently strike the ball, their comfort with different lofts, and the types of shots they frequently face on their home course. It's often recommended that golfers test both options, either through demo clubs or a fitting session, to determine which wedge complements their existing set and playing style more effectively.

• Beginners: For novice golfers, a 50-degree wedge might be the better choice. Its lower loft makes it easier to get solid contact on full shots, and the added distance can be beneficial as beginners often struggle with generating clubhead speed. The increased forgiveness on mishits can also boost confidence.
• Mid-Handicappers: Players in the mid-handicap range (10-18) might find either wedge suitable, depending on their specific needs and preferences. Those looking to improve their approach game might lean towards the 52-degree for its added control, while others might prefer the 50-degree for its versatility in various situations.
• Low-Handicappers and Professionals: Skilled players often prefer the 52-degree wedge for its enhanced control and spin characteristics. The ability to manipulate trajectory and spin is crucial for low-handicap golfers, and the 52-degree wedge offers more options in this regard. However, some professionals opt for a 50-degree wedge to maintain specific yardage gaps in their set.

Practice and Experimentation

Regardless of which wedge you choose, practice is key to maximizing its effectiveness in your game. Spend time on the range and practice green to familiarize yourself with the distances and trajectories you can achieve with different swing lengths and ball positions.

Experiment with both full shots and partial swings to understand how each wedge performs in various situations. Pay attention to how the ball reacts upon landing and practice controlling your distances with both clubs.

Wedge Options to Consider

Cobra, Cleveland, and Callaway are three well known and respected brands that offer wedges for men and women with 50.0°/52.0° loft options.

Cobra King Snakebite Women's Wedge

The SNAKEBITE Wedge features their most aggressive grooves to date designed to maximize spin, while a versatile notch design delivers versatile shot-making around the greens

• Hand: Right Hand  Left Hand
• Loft: 48° / 50° / 52° / 54° / 56°/  58°/  60°
• Grind: Classic / Versatile / Wide Low
• Shaft: Steel Regular, Stiff, Extra Stiff & Graphite (Lite, Regular, Stiff, Extra Stiff)