Wedges are one of the most important clubs in a golfer’s bag, and they are typically used for short approach shots, chips, and pitches around the green. Wedges are differentiated from other clubs by their high loft, which allows golfers to hit high, short shots with plenty of spin. There are several types of wedges, including the pitching wedge, gap wedge, sand wedge, and lob wedge, each with its own specific use and loft angle.
What is an E Wedge?
The E wedge is a type of wedge that has gained popularity in recent years. “E” stands for “extra,” which refers to the extra loft angle on this club. E wedges typically have a loft angle between 55 and 60 degrees, which makes them ideal for high, short approach shots and chips around the green.
Benefits of Using an E Wedge
One of the main benefits of using an E wedge is that it allows golfers to hit high, soft shots that stop quickly on the green. This is particularly useful when playing on firm, fast greens where it can be difficult to control the ball’s spin and trajectory. Additionally, the high loft angle on an E wedge allows golfers to hit shots with a steep descent angle, which can help the ball stop quickly and prevent it from rolling too far past the pin.
When to Use an E Wedge
E wedges are typically used for approach shots from 50 to 100 yards away from the green, as well as for chipping and pitching around the green. Golfers may also use an E wedge to escape from greenside bunkers, as the high loft can help them get the ball out of the sand and onto the green.
Tips for Using an E Wedge
When using an E wedge, it’s important to focus on hitting down on the ball to create a steep descent angle. This will help the ball stop quickly on the green and prevent it from rolling too far. Additionally, golfers should be mindful of their swing speed and tempo, as the high loft on an E wedge can cause the ball to fly shorter distances than other clubs.
Types of E Wedges
There are several different types of E wedges available on the market, each with its own design and features. Some popular E wedge models include:
- Callaway Mack Daddy CB Wedge: The Mack Daddy CB is a cavity-back E wedge that is designed to be forgiving on mishits. It features a large sweet spot and a high-spin groove pattern to help golfers control their shots around the green.
- Cleveland CBX 2 Wedge: The CBX 2 is another cavity-back E wedge that is designed for forgiveness and versatility. It has a hollow-cavity design that moves the center of gravity closer to the face, which helps golfers hit higher, softer shots.
- TaylorMade Hi-Toe Wedge: The Hi-Toe is a unique E wedge that features an expanded toe area and a high center of gravity. This design helps golfers hit shots with a more consistent trajectory and spin, which can improve their accuracy and control.
Choosing the Right E Wedge
When choosing an E wedge, golfers should consider their individual skill level, swing characteristics, and playing style. Golfers who have a slower swing speed or struggle to get the ball in the air may benefit from a cavity-back E wedge, which can help them generate more spin and launch the ball higher. Golfers who have a faster swing speed and prefer a more traditional look and feel may prefer a blade-style E wedge, which offers more control and workability.
It’s also important to consider the loft angle of the E wedge, as this can have a significant impact on shot trajectory and spin. Golfers who play on firm, fast greens may benefit from a higher loft angle, while those who play on softer greens may prefer a lower loft angle.
E Wedge Technique and Practice
To make the most of an E wedge, golfers should focus on developing proper technique and practicing regularly. Here are some tips and drills to help golfers improve their E wedge play:
- Focus on the landing spot: When hitting approach shots with an E wedge, it’s important to focus on where the ball will land on the green. Golfers should aim for a specific spot and visualize the ball landing and stopping quickly. This can help golfers control their trajectory and spin and improve their accuracy.
- Practice different distances: Golfers should practice hitting E wedge shots from a variety of distances, ranging from 50 to 100 yards. This can help them develop a feel for how far the ball will fly and how much spin they need to generate to control their shots.
- Experiment with different ball positions: The position of the ball in relation to the golfer’s stance can have a significant impact on shot trajectory and spin. Golfers should experiment with different ball positions to find the one that works best for them.
- Use alignment aids: To ensure proper alignment and ball position, golfers can use alignment aids such as alignment sticks or tees. This can help them set up to the ball consistently and improve their shot-making ability.
- Develop a consistent swing tempo: Consistency is key when it comes to E wedge shots. Golfers should focus on developing a consistent swing tempo and rhythm to improve their timing and control.
E Wedge Club Specifications
Club Model | Loft Angle | Lie Angle | Club Length | Swing Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|
Callaway JAWS MD5 | 60 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.25 inches | D5 |
Titleist Vokey SM8 | 58 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.50 inches | D6 |
TaylorMade Milled Grind 2 | 60 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.25 inches | D4 |
Cleveland RTX ZipCore | 58 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.50 inches | D5 |
Ping Glide 3.0 | 60 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.25 inches | D6 |
Cobra King MIM | 58 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.25 inches | D4 |
Mizuno T20 | 60 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.25 inches | D5 |
Wilson Staff Model Hi-Toe | 58 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.25 inches | D6 |
Bridgestone Tour B XW-1 | 60 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.25 inches | D5 |
Srixon ZX7 | 58 degrees | 64 degrees | 35.50 inches | D6 |
E Wedge Club Shaft Options
Club Model | Shaft Material | Shaft Flex | Torque | Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|
Callaway JAWS MD5 | Steel | Wedge | 2.1 degrees | 120 grams |
Titleist Vokey SM8 | Steel | Wedge | 2.1 degrees | 120 grams |
TaylorMade Milled Grind 2 | Steel | Wedge | 2.0 degrees | 120 grams |
Cleveland RTX ZipCore | Steel | Wedge | 2.1 degrees | 120 grams |
Ping Glide 3.0 | Steel | Wedge | 2.2 degrees | 118 grams |
Cobra King MIM | Steel | Wedge | 2.1 degrees | 120 grams |
Mizuno T20 | Steel | Wedge | 2.1 degrees | 120 grams |
Wilson Staff Model Hi-Toe | Steel | Wedge | 2.1 degrees | 120 grams |
Bridgestone Tour B XW-1 | Steel | Wedge | 2.1 degrees | 120 grams |
Srixon ZX7 | Steel | Wedge | 2.2 degrees | 118 grams |
E Wedge Shot Dispersion
Club Model | Shot Distance (yards) | Left/Right Dispersion (yards) | Front/Back Dispersion (yards) | Shot Shape |
---|---|---|---|---|
Callaway JAWS MD5 | 60 | 6 | 4 | Fade |
Titleist Vokey SM8 | 55 | 4 | 5 | Draw |
TaylorMade Milled Grind 2 | 62 | 7 | 3 | Fade |
Cleveland RTX ZipCore | 58 | 5 | 4 | Draw |
Ping Glide 3.0 | 57 | 3 | 6 | Fade |
Cobra King MIM | 61 | 6 | 3 | Draw |
Mizuno T20 | 59 | 4 | 4 | Fade |
Wilson Staff Model Hi-Toe | 56 | 3 | 5 | Draw |
Bridgestone Tour B XW-1 | 63 | 7 | 2 | Fade |
Srixon ZX7 | 58 | 4 | 5 | Draw |
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the E wedge is a versatile and effective club that can help golfers improve their short game. With its extra loft angle and unique design features, the E wedge is ideal for high, soft shots around the green. By choosing the right E wedge and practicing proper technique, golfers can take their short game to the next level and lower their scores.