History
In the early 1900's a pitching wedge was referred to as a "lofter" and had between 40 and 50 degrees of loft. Shortly thereafter, sets of golf clubs were given numbers, and the modern-day pitching wedge was called a 10-iron. Now a set of irons will include a pitching wedge with a loft of between 45 and 48 degrees.
Significance
For most of the 20th century the pitching wedge had approximately 50 degrees of loft. In the past 10 years lofts of all irons have been decreased because of perimeter weighting, center of gravity and the ability to fly farther. Now the average loft of a new pitching wedge is 46 degrees. The sand wedge, on the other hand, is and always has been between 54 and 56 degrees, creating a large gap between it and the modern pitching wedge.
Manufacturers Specs
The following are popular manufacturers top-selling pitching wedge's lofts:
Titleist AP2 - 47 degrees
Taylor Made Burner Plus - 45 degrees
Callaway X22 Tour - 46 degrees
Ping G15 - 45 degrees
Mizuno MP62 - 47 degrees
Identification
Most pitching wedges have a similar look as the rest of the irons in a set. Other wedges are specialty wedges that appear more like a sand, gap or lob wedge, such as Titleist's Vokey 48-degree wedge. Wedges will be progressively shorter than a 9-iron and slightly more upright.
Expert Insight
A good idea is to have the lofts of all your irons and wedges checked at a reputable golf equipment shop. Depending upon your 9-iron's loft and your wedge lofts, you will be able to determine the best loft for your pitching wedge.
About The Author
Dan Lockhart is a PGA of America golf professional that specializes in teaching. He is based out of Naples, FL and teaches for the Rick Smith Golf Academy at Tiburon. Lockhart graduated from Ferris State University in Big Rapids Michigan. He has been teaching golf for eight years and has been working in the golf business since 1996.
