2-MINUTE CLINICS

How to hit a flighted wedge

Getting a wedge to hop and stop on the green comes from making a crisp strike with the shaft leaning toward the target. That’s how you keep the flight down to limit air time and spin. Trying to scoop the ball off the turf or going full throttle risks solid contact and trajectory control—two hallmarks of great wedge players. —Chris Gotterup

  • Play the ball behind center in your stance.
  • At address, hold your wedge across your shoulders to check that they are square (parallel to target line), even a touch closed (above).
  • Push your hands a couple of inches ahead of the ball at address.
  • Feel your lead arm staying against your chest as you swing back for a more rounded shape, less up and down.
  • Swing back and through at 80 percent—more speed sends the ball higher.
  • Abbreviate the finish, with your arms below shoulder height. A low finish means a low flight (above).
  • Here's a great way to dial in your wedge strikes.
  • Lay a towel a couple of inches behind a ball.
  • Set up with the ball in the back half of your stance, toward your trail foot, and lean the shaft toward the target.
  • If you miss the towel on the downswing and hit the ball solid, you’ll keep the flight down for a more controllable wedge shot.