How to Hit a Sand Wedge

Golf goes beyond hitting the ball to push it in a hole. It has a few technical elements that make it distinct and exciting. Hitting a sand wedge is only one among the many factors that make golf a game of the pros. 

All golf courses embrace sand bunkers as hazards. It is quite tricky to get the ball out of the sand. The manner in which you hit the sand wedge is greatly dependent on certain foundational situations like where your lie is (buried in the rough or tight), where you are (fairway, rough, or sand), and the kind of shot you want to hit. 

Sand Wedge Situations

Here are the situations that will call for a sand wedge:

  • When the ball is sitting in the rough
  • When the ball is in a muddy ground
  • When the ball is in the sand
  • When the ball is entangled in rough grass, and you want a higher, softer shot

Here’s a brief explanation of how to execute a perfect shot when dealing with a sand wedge:

Step 1: Get the right wedge

There are ideal settings and measurements for sand wedges. However, different scenarios will call for varied types of sand wedges. For instance, you’ll need a sand wedge with a loft that exceeds 60 degrees if you land in a region that’s very far from any green. Here, the ball will explore higher altitudes with a soft landing without rolling.

Comparatively, a wedge ranging between 50 and 56 degrees will come in handy if you find yourself closer to the greens. Here, the ball will travel for long at lesser heights.

Step 2: Position yourself and Set Up

Your position matters whenever you want to make a well-executed shot because you may end up attempting shots inside the bunker if you encounter any small inconsistency. 

The following steps will help:

  • Check the depth of the sand at the region where your ball fell, then fix your posture to take the shot. 
  • Put the ball on the left side of the center if you’re a right handed golfer to prevent the ball from rolling or reaching a lower trajectory while in flight.
  • Ensure that the shot has a backspin by putting weight on the front foot. 
  •  Eliminate as much leg action as you can- they may cause errors when taking sand shots
  • Relax your arm and shoulder muscles

Step 3: Execution of the swing

Start the swing after setting your stance. However, you must ensure that your hands are in control while maintaining the body firmly. Execute the swing starting with a backswing halfway. You may need to apply a little wrist hinge as you reach the top. Ensure that your hands don’t waver.

Step 4: Finish the Hit

The magnitude of the swing greatly relies on the distance you want the ball to move. The swing must send the ball high while giving room for a soft landing. You will only need to practice more often to figure out how far a backswing will take the ball. 

The finish is probably one of the essential segments of a sand shot. It will dictate 80% of how the shot will proceed. You’ll only need to relax and be satisfied with where the wedge directs you with the loft.