60 Degree Wedge: What It Is, When to Use it, & shouldn’t

As avid golfers, we know that choosing the proper club can make all the difference in our game. One of the most versatile clubs in our bag is the 60-degree lob wedge.

In this article, we will unfold everything you need to know about when to use a 60-degree lob wedge, how to use it, and what makes it an essential tool for your golf game.

What is a 60-Degree Lob Wedge?

A 60-degree wedge, also called a lob wedge, is a kind of golf club with a high loft angle of 60 degrees.

The high degree of loft makes it an ideal club for hitting short, high shots that stop quickly on the green.

In general, wedges are a subset of irons and are designed for short-range shots, typically less than 120 yards.

The different types of wedges include pitching wedges (around 45-50 degrees), gap wedges (around 50-54 degrees), sand wedges (around 54-58 degrees), and lob wedges (around 58-64 degrees).

The 60-degree wedge is primarily used for hitting shots around the green, especially from the sand or rough.

It’s also helpful in hitting high, soft shots over obstacles like trees or bunkers and for hitting shots with many backspins.

With its high degree of loft, the 60-degree wedge can create a steep angle of descent, allowing the ball to stop quickly on the green.

In addition to its high loft angle, the 60-degree wedge typically has a shorter shaft and a heavier head than other clubs, allowing for more control and precision on short shots.

The clubface of a 60-degree wedge is also designed to have a lot of grooves, which help to create spin and control on shots around the green.

Overall, the 60-degree wedge is an essential tool for golfers of all levels, especially those looking to improve their short game.

Its high degree of loft, heavy head and precision design make it an asset on the golf course.

When to Use a 60-Degree Lob Wedge?

The 60-degree lob wedge is one of the most versatile clubs in your bag.

Here are some situations where it can come in handy:

1) Short Approach Shots

When you need to hit a shot from 50 yards or less, the 60-degree lob wedge can be an excellent choice.

The high loft of the club will help you get the ball up quickly and land it softly on the green, allowing you to stop the ball close to the pin.

2) Flop Shots

Flop shots are some of the most challenging but can be the most rewarding.

When you need to hit a high, soft shot over an obstacle or onto a tight green, the 60-degree lob wedge can be a great choice.

Opening the clubface and swinging fully and smoothly lets you get the ball up quickly and land it softly on the green.

3) Bunker Shots

Bunker shots can be some of the most intimidating shots in golf, but with the correct technique and club, they can also be some of the most fun.

The 60-degree lob wedge can be a great choice when you find yourself in a bunker.

The high loft of the club will help you get the ball up quickly and out of the bunker, while the wide sole will prevent the club from digging into the sand.

How to Use a 60-Degree Wedge?

Now that we’ve covered when to use a 60-degree lob wedge let’s discuss how to use it. But first, here are some tips for getting the most out of your lob wedge:

I) Open the Clubface

When using a 60-degree lob wedge, opening the clubface is essential.

Doing so increases the club’s loft, which will help you get the ball up quickly and land it softly on the green.

II) Use a Full Swing

Unlike other wedges, such as the pitching or gap wedge, you should use a full swing with your 60-degree lob wedge.

This will help you generate the speed and spin necessary to get the ball up quickly and stop it on the green.

III) Practice Your Technique

Using a 60-degree lob wedge requires excellent technique.

Practice your swings regularly and focus on maintaining a smooth, even tempo.

Tips for Using a 60-Degree Lob Wedge

Here are some additional tips for using a 60-degree lob wedge effectively:

a) Master the Art of the Flop Shot:

The flop shot is one of the most challenging golf shots but can also be effective when executed correctly.

To perform a flop shot, you need to open the clubface, take a full swing, and hit the ball high and softly.

This shot can be advantageous when hitting the ball over an obstacle, such as a bunker or a tree.

b) Know Your Distances

When using a 60-degree lob wedge, knowing how far you can hit the ball with it is essential.

Spend some time on the practice range and learn your distances for full, half, and quarter swings.

Knowing your distances will allow you to make more accurate shots on the course.

c) Choose the Right Shot Type

You can use several different shot types with a 60-degree lob wedge, including a full swing, a half swing, and a quarter swing.

Each shot type has its strengths and weaknesses, so choosing the right shot type for the situation is essential.

How to Hit Different Shots with Your 60-Degree Wedge

The 60-degree lob wedge can be a versatile club to help you hit various shots around the green.

Here are some shots you can hit with your 60-degree lob wedge:

High Flop Shot: To hit a high flop shot with your 60-degree lob wedge, open the clubface and position the ball forward in your stance.

Make a full swing and hit down on the ball, allowing the clubface to slide under the ball and create spin.

Low Runner: To hit a low runner with your 60-degree lob wedge, position the ball back in your stance and close the clubface slightly.

Make a shallow swing and hit down on the ball, allowing the club to slide under the ball and create a lower trajectory.

Bunker Shot: To hit a bunker shot with your 60-degree lob wedge, open the clubface and place the ball in the middle of your stance.

Make a full swing and hit down on the sand behind the ball, allowing the clubface to slide under the ball and create spin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a 60-Degree Lob Wedge

While the 60-degree lob wedge can be a valuable tool for any golfer, there are also some common mistakes that you should avoid when using this club:

• Using it for Every Shot Around the Green: While the 60-degree lob wedge can be an influential club for getting the ball up quickly and stopping it on the green, it’s not always the best choice.

If the ball is sitting on a tight lie or there isn’t much green to work with, you may be better off using a different club.

• Hitting the Ball Too Hard: Because the 60-degree lob wedge has a high loft, it’s easy to hit the ball too hard and send it flying over the green.

To avoid this mistake, focus on making a smooth, controlled swing and let the club’s loft do the work.

• Neglecting Your Setup: The setup is an essential part of any golf shot, especially when using a 60-degree lob wedge.

Make sure to take the time to set up correctly, with your feet shoulder-width apart, your weight on your front foot, and your hands slightly ahead of the ball.

What Makes the 60-Degree Lob Wedge Different?

The 60-degree lob wedge is unique from other wedges in several ways.

• Firstly, it has a much higher loft than most other wedges, which allows it to get the ball up quickly and stop it on the green.
• Secondly, it has a wider sole, which prevents the club from digging into the ground or sand, making it ideal for bunker shots.
• Lastly, the lob wedge has a shorter shaft than most other clubs, making it easier to control and hit accurate shots.

How to Choose the Right 60-Degree Lob Wedge

Choosing the right 60-degree lob wedge can make a big difference in your short game.

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a 60-degree lob wedge:

i) Loft

The loft of a 60-degree lob wedge can range from 58 to 62 degrees, so choosing the suitable loft for your game is essential.

If you have a steep swing, you may benefit from a lower loft, while a shallower swing may require a higher loft.

ii) Grind

The grind of a 60-degree lob wedge refers to the shape of the sole and can affect how the club interacts with the turf.

A high-bounce grind is good for soft sand or fluffy lies, while a low-bounce grind is better for tight lies or firm turf.

iii) Shaft

The shaft of your 60-degree lob wedge can also impact your performance.

A lighter shaft can help increase swing speed, while a heavier shaft can provide more control and stability.

Do I Need a 60-degree Wedge in my Golf Bag?

Whether or not you need a 60-degree wedge in your golf bag depends on your playing style and preferences.

However, for many golfers, a 60-degree wedge can be an asset on the course.

One of the main advantages of a 60-degree wedge is its versatility.

With its high loft, you can use it for a wide variety of shots around the green, including bunker shots, flop shots, and high, soft pitches.

Its ability to create a steep angle of descent also makes it helpful in hitting shots over obstacles or onto tightly contoured greens.

Another advantage of a 60-degree wedge is its precision.

Due to its shorter shaft and heavier head, it can be easier to control and more precise than other clubs on short shots.

This can be especially useful for golfers who struggle with their short game, as the 60-degree wedge can help them get the ball closer to the hole and save strokes.

However, a 60-degree wedge may not be necessary or even beneficial for all golfers.

For example, some golfers may prefer a lower-lofted club for short shots around the green or have a more natural feel for other types of wedges.

Additionally, some golfers may need to gain the skill or experience necessary to use a 60-degree wedge effectively and may struggle to control their shots or hit the ball too far.

Ultimately, the decision to add a 60-degree wedge to your bag should be based on your playing style and preferences.

If you struggle with short shots around the green and want to improve your precision and versatility, a 60-degree wedge may be a good investment.

However, if you’re comfortable with your current set of clubs and feel that a 60-degree wedge would only add a little to your game, it may be better to stick with what you have.

Final Thoughts 

The 60-degree lob wedge is valuable for golfers looking to improve their short game.

This club can be used in various situations, from getting out of bunkers to hitting high, soft shots onto the green.

However, it’s essential to use this club correctly and avoid common mistakes that can lead to poor shots and high scores.

You can become a more confident and skilled player around the green by practicing with your 60-degree lob wedge and learning how to use it effectively.

Remember to focus on your setup, use the club’s bounce, and make a smooth, controlled swing to get the most out of this versatile club.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the 60-degree lob wedge and taking your golf game to the next level.