Are you looking to master those tricky shots around the green? Consider the versatility of wedges, especially the best lob wedges. Pulling off finesse shots like Phil Mickelson’s demands skill and the right equipment, typically wedges with plenty of lofts, between 58°-64°. The best golf wedges create a spectacle and offer spin options for green navigation.
Explore our reviews to find the perfect fit for your game, whether the 56° models or higher lofts. And if you’re looking for guidance beyond best lob wedges, check out our additional guides covering the best wedges for chipping, sand wedges, gap wedges and forgiving wedges for comprehensive assistance in refining your short game.
Best Lob Wedges
Titleist Vokey SM10 Wedge
Titleist Vokey SM10 Wedge
The latest iteration, the Vokey SM10 wedge, boasts subtle yet impactful improvements from its predecessor.
This wedge offers heightened predictability and control on the green, featuring a more centrally placed CG, higher spin, and lower launch.
Pros
Improved spin performance
Lower launch for more control
25 lie, loft, and bounce combinations
Cons
Raw finish is no longer standard
Specifications:
- Lofts: 46° – 62°
- Grinds: 5 (F, S, M, K, D)
- Finishes: 4 (Tour Chrome, Nickel, Jet Black, Raw)
Titleist has subtly enhanced the Vokey SM10, introducing a more centrally placed CG, resulting in a lower launch and higher spin for enhanced precision during gameplay. In testing, these design tweaks proved invaluable for refining shots.
The stronger lofts (46°-52°) feature a slightly smaller head shape and a straighter leading edge. At the same time, the higher lofted options (54°-62°) boast a larger footprint, instilling confidence for challenging short-sided chip and pitch shots.
Ping S159 Wedge
Ping S159 Wedge
With a sleek design rivaling any competitor, the Ping S159 wedges deliver top-notch performance.
Experience exceptional spin for precise chipping and pitching and a consistently strong ball flight for longer shots.
Pros
Premium looks
Produces exceptionally high levels of greenside spin
Mid-sized head inspires confidence
Cons
Clean look may limit shelf appeal
Specifications:
- Lofts: 46° – 62°
- Grinds: S, W, E, H, T, B
- Finishes: 2 (Chrome & Black)
Ping hits the mark with the S159 range, boasting a sleek design and confidence-inspiring size. Its slim topline and extended head offer style and functionality, which is particularly beneficial for navigating challenging setups.
Performance-wise, the S159 shines with its exceptional spin levels thanks to precision-milled wheel-cut grooves. This translates to unrivaled confidence in chipping, making it a top choice for greenside precision.
Cleveland RTX Full-Face 2 Wedge
Cleveland RTX Full-Face 2 Wedge
Are you looking for a reliable blade-style wedge? The Cleveland RTX Full-Face 2 is your answer. Its full-face grooves ensure enhanced spin control, allowing you to execute various shots around the greens precisely.
Enjoy a consistent ball flight on full swings, making this wedge a must-have for your arsenal.
Pros
High levels of spin
Clean, premium looks
Full-face grooves provide a larger hitting area
Cons
May not appeal to traditionalists
Specifications:
- Lofts: 50° – 62°
- Grinds: 2 (S & C)
- Finishes: 2 (Tour Satin & Raw)
The Cleveland RTX Full-Face 2 is an excellent choice for enhancing wedge play. Featuring full-face grooves, it offers increased hitting space, making it particularly suitable for novice golfers.
What sets the RTX Full-Face 2 apart is its versatility. While most full-face wedges cater to beginners, this compact yet sleek wedge, with its slight spoon-like appearance at address, is suitable for players with finesse in their gameplay and those new to golf.
Mizuno T24 Wedge
Mizuno T24 Wedge
Sleek and versatile, the Mizuno T24 wedge caters to golfers of all skill levels.
Its classic design appeals to the discerning eye of seasoned players, while its versatility ensures optimal performance for every swing.
Pros
Super spin control
Wide range of finishes available
Cons
Raw finish prone to scuffing
Specifications:
- Lofts: 46° – 60°
- Grinds: 5 (S, D, C, V, X)
- Finishes: 3 (Soft White Satin, Denim Copper, Tour Raw)
For skilled golfers seeking an upgrade to their lob wedge, the Mizuno T24 stands out. Crafted from one-piece Grain Flow Forged HD Boron in Japan, the T24 undergoes refinements from its predecessor, the T22, enhancing its aesthetics, feel, and performance.
During testing, we were particularly impressed by its versatility from various lies and its performance on full shots. With five bounce options available, the T24 caters to players with specific golf club delivery, ensuring success around the greens.
Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore Wedge
Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore Wedge
Elevate your game with the Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore wedge, delivering enhanced forgiveness and wet-condition spin. Sporting a sleek design, this wedge offers a touch of class on the course.
With a new low-bounce option and a full range of lofts and grinds, there’s something for every player’s preference.
Pros
Tri-bounce sole excels in all conditions
High spin on all shots
Sleek aesthetics
Wide range of lofts and bounces
Cons
Feels slightly heavy
Specifications:
- Lofts: 46º – 60º
- Grinds: 4 (Low, Low+, Mid, Full)
- Finishes: 1 (Stainless Steel)
With its unmistakable C grind, the Cleveland RTX 6 ZipCore stands out as one of the top golf wedges on the market. Our testing revealed its exceptional playing ability, making it a versatile option for players of all skill levels.
Its enhanced balance, bounce, and grip were notable during testing, thanks to the UltiZip grooves on the clubface. These deeper and sharper angles contribute to superior spin control, a hallmark of top-notch lob wedges.
Overall, the RTX 6 ZipCore leaves little room for criticism. Its comprehensive options and exceptional balance, bounce, and grip position it as one of the premier Cleveland wedges.
TaylorMade Hi-Toe 3 Wedge
TaylorMade Hi-Toe 3 Wedge
Experience the TaylorMade Hi-Toe 3 Wedge, offering effortless trajectory and distance control with its high center of gravity.
Strategically placed micro-ribs between the grooves guarantee enhanced spin.
Pros
High level of spin control
Incredible looks from every angle
Ample versatility from the four-way cambered sole
Cons
Only one bounce option is available in the low and mid lofts
Specifications:
- Lofts: 50º – 60º
- Grinds: 3 (Standard, Low, High)
- Finishes: 1 (Aged Copper)
The TaylorMade Hi-Toe 3 wedge brings several upgrades over its predecessors, enhancing the lob wedge experience. Despite the copper finish not appealing to all golfers, its rusty hue blends elegantly with the Raw face over time, adding to its charm.
When it comes to spin, the Hi-Toe truly excels, thanks to raised micro-ribs between the grooves, providing additional texture on the face for enhanced friction. We quickly achieved low-spinning chips during testing, showcasing the wedge’s remarkable performance.
Cleveland CBX Full-Face 2 Wedge
Cleveland CBX Full-Face 2 Wedge
Modernize your set with the cavity back Cleveland CBX Full-Face 2 wedge, perfect for mid-to-high handicappers.
Its giant head and full-width grooves offer a blend of forgiveness and control, enhancing your game on the course.
Pros
Cavity back design offers more forgiveness for full shots
Full-face grooves maximize contact for a spin
Feels very good for a cavity back head
Cons
Feel is excellent but not quite as sharp as a blade wedge
Specifications:
- Lofts: 50º – 60º
- Grinds: 2 (Full, C-Shaped)
- Finishes: 1 (Stainless Steel)
One of the best wedges for mid handicappers, the Cleveland CBX Zipcore Full-Face 2 presents a compelling option with its spacious clubhead and captivating stainless steel design, catering to golfers seeking a visually striking addition to their bag.
This lob wedge represents an upgrade over the original Full-Face CBX Zipcore design, featuring enhancements like increased spin and added forgiveness. With a lighter build and an error-tolerant sole, the new model ensures improved performance, especially on chip shots around the greens.
Furthermore, the cavity-backed design, complemented by the black TPU gel insert behind the sweet spot, moderates the club’s sound upon impact, delivering remarkable feedback that defies its cavity-backed nature.
Callaway Jaws Raw Wedge
Callaway Jaws Raw Wedge
Get ready for loads of spin and stunning aesthetics with the new Callaway Jaws Raw wedge.
With many loft and bounce options, it caters to various playing styles. While its firm feel may divide opinion, its performance speaks for itself.
Pros
Incredible levels of spin
Inspiring looks
Easy to flight
Cons
Feel off the face quite firm
Swing weight a little light
Specifications:
- Lofts: 48° – 60°
- Grinds: 4 (X, Z, S, W)
- Finishes: 2 (Chrome & Black)
Designed by Rob Cleveland, the Callaway Jaws Raw Wedge boasts the deepest and most aggressive grooves in golf, delivering impressive results during testing.
Aesthetically, it maintains the signature shape and style of the Jaws range, featuring a well-designed club with a weight system aiding in creating bounce off the turf.
During testing, the micro-grooves combined with the Raw face provided exceptional spin, particularly on shorter chips, offering precise control over various shots. The Z Grind sole facilitated easy ball access, gliding seamlessly along the turf for optimal performance.
Wilson Staff Model Wedge
Wilson Staff Model Wedge
Experience classic aesthetics and a delightfully soft feel with the Wilson Staff Model wedge.
Its stability, smooth turf interaction on full shots, and versatility and finesse make it a must-have for any golfer seeking precision and performance.
Pros
Consistent flight through the loft range
Soft feel off the face
Cons
Not a lot of bounce and grind options
Specifications:
- Lofts: 48° – 60°
- Grinds: 2 (Classic, Tour)
- Finishes: 1 (Grey)
Wilson Staff’s short-game lineup has significantly transformed, featuring the Staff Model and the Staff Model Hi-Toe, both exceptional clubs.
Opting for the Staff Model, we were impressed by its blend of aesthetics and performance, instilling confidence at setup. The wedge proved stable and forgiving upon impact, catering to various players, from novices to seasoned golfers.
Callaway Jaws Mack Daddy 5 Wedge
Callaway Jaws Mack Daddy 5 Wedge
Unlock your full potential with the Callaway Jaws MD5 Wedge, offering a wide array of lofts and five grind options.
A fitting is essential to ensure you’re equipped with the perfect tools for scoring shots into and around the greens, guaranteeing confidence and satisfaction in your game.
Pros
Exquisite looks and feel
Plenty of bounce and grind options
Cons
Some may prefer a straighter, longer leading edge for easier alignment
Specifications:
- Lofts: 46° – 64°
- Grinds: 5 (S, W, C, X, L-W)
- Finishes: 3 (Platinum Chrome, Tour Grey & Custom)
The Jaws MD5 stands out as an exceptional lob wedge, offering a comprehensive package of performance benefits. Notably, it excels in generating spin, enhancing shot control, and refining gameplay precision.
Aesthetically, the Jaws MD5 sports a classic silhouette with discreetly integrated technology on the face to minimize distraction. Offering a variety of grind and finish options, these wedges deliver a buttery, soft feel across all shot lengths. This luxurious feel is attributed to the mild carbon steel construction, muscle back design, and smooth, tacky Lamkin UTX grip.
TaylorMade MG4 Wedge
TaylorMade MG4 Wedge
Experience the TaylorMade MG4 Wedge, boasting a sleek design and consistent high-spin performance in all conditions.
The raw face, complemented by the outer body, instills confidence at address, making it a must-have for any golfer seeking reliability and style.
Pros
High levels of spin
Traditional shaping
Cons
Arguably lacks versatility for the more creative golfers
Specifications:
- Lofts: 46° – 60°
- Grinds: 7 (Low, Standard, High, LBV, SBC, HBW & TW)
- Finishes: Two (Chrome & Black)
Equipped with Raw face technology, the MG4 wedges maintain exceptional spin even in wet conditions, developing a rusted surface over time for optimal performance. Enhanced by raised micro-ribs between grooves, these wedges ensure precise spin control during gameplay.
Moreover, the innovative tread technology efficiently disperses moisture upon impact, optimizing speed. Available in chrome and black finishes, the MG4 wedges boast impressive aesthetics.
Callaway Jaws Full Toe Wedge
Callaway Jaws Full Toe Wedge
The Callaway Jaws Full Toe Wedge may not appeal to everyone with its full-face grooves, but for those who appreciate its benefits, it’s among the top choices available.
With a specialized yet visually balanced design, it offers enhanced performance without straying too far from the traditional aesthetic.
Pros
Great loft options for a lob wedge
Versatile club
Loads of stopping power
Cons
Shape won’t be to everyone’s taste
Specifications:
- Lofts: 54° – 64°
- Grinds: 1 (C)
- Finishes: 2 (Raw Chrome & Raw Black)
Designed to replace the PM Grind Wedge, the Jaws Full Toe model incorporates vital technologies to maximize spin. Extended grooves cover the entire face, facilitating spin from any position and enhancing ball contact. Featuring a raw face, a new addition to the Callaway range, coupled with offset groove-in-groove technology, this wedge offers golfers the spin and control necessary for confident shot execution.
How We Test
At Golf Testers, we’re dedicated to thorough testing. Whether provided or purchased, each wedge undergoes rigorous examination. With our team’s golfing expertise, we assess what makes a great wedge.
Our method involves extensive field testing across various conditions. We evaluate performance in multiple rounds, testing claims like bunker prowess.
We analyze spin, feel, and distance control for the best lob wedges. We scrutinize suitability for full shots and flight consistency.
This approach extends to all gear categories, ensuring our reviews offer comprehensive insights.
How To Choose The Best Lob Wedges?
Wedges are among the most technical clubs, demanding careful selection to match your swing and playing style. At Golf Testers, we stress the importance of club fitting to tailor your choice to your needs. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Gapping: Assess your current wedge yardages to determine if additional options are needed for optimal efficiency, especially with scoring clubs.
- Bounce: Choose between low bounce for firm conditions and high bounce for softer ground and bunkers, considering factors like angle of attack and fairway firmness.
- Finish: Consider cosmetic options like black PVD and copper finishes, which can reduce glare.
- Grooves: Stay updated on groove designs, as advancements in milling processes enhance spin and control, especially with full-face grooves.
- Forgiveness: Playability is crucial, particularly for less experienced golfers. Look for wider soles and cavity-backed wedges to balance control and consistency.
Frequently Ask Question
What is a lob wedge?
A lob wedge usually boasts a loft of 58° or higher, with most maxing out at 64°. However, a few niche brands have introduced wedges reaching 70°, labeled as “ultra lob wedges.” As the loftiest club, a lob wedge achieves maximum height but minimal distance on shots.
What’s the purpose of a lob wedge?
A lob wedge shines when you need a shot to soar high and stop quickly on the green. Surprisingly, top-tier lob wedges offer remarkable versatility. Numerous players opt for their lob wedge for various short shots, mastering low bump-and-run and delicate flop shots.
Even renowned golfers like 2019 Open Champion Shane Lowry rely on their lob wedge for all greenside shots. Additionally, many golfers turn to their lob wedge for greenside bunker shots, leveraging its high loft to elevate the ball from the sand.
What is the best lob wedges degree?
While 60° remains the traditional loft for lob wedges, it’s not optimal. Today, manufacturers offer lob wedges ranging from 58° to 64°, providing golfers with a broader selection.
If you frequently play flop shots, you might benefit from a higher lofted model towards the upper end of the scale.
What makes a good lob wedge?
A quality lob wedge instills confidence during setup, facilitates diverse short-game shots, and delivers ample spin. Since preferences vary, testing different options to discover your ideal lob wedge is crucial.
What is the most forgiving 60-degree lob wedge?
Today, most lob wedges excel in forgiveness and consistency. However, those with a cavity-back design and high MOI typically offer the easiest hitting experience.
Which is better: a lob wedge or a gap wedge?
Lob and gap wedges fulfill distinct roles. Gap wedges, usually ranging from 50-52°, boast less loft (6-8°) than lob wedges, primarily serving for approach shots onto the green rather than finesse chips near the fringe.
Elite players typically carry a complete set of wedges (pitching, gap, sand, and lob) to cover every shot type effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best lob wedges involves considering various factors such as loft, grind, feel, and versatility. Each golfer’s preferences and playing style are crucial in determining the ideal lob wedge for their game.
Whether maximizing spin control, inspiring confidence at address, or achieving consistent performance across various lies, the perfect lob wedge enhances short-game prowess and overall scoring potential.
By exploring the options available and testing them extensively, golfers can find the lob wedge that complements their skills and helps them navigate the challenges of the course with precision and confidence.
