Best Gap Wedges 2024

Getting the best golf wedge for you is vitally important. Why? Well in case you've not heard, wedges are your 'scoring clubs'. Pitching onto the green and getting up and down more often will save precious shots from your scorecard, so that's why it is vitally important to have a good set of wedges that bridge the gap between your irons and your putter.

Watch: The Best Players' Wedges of 2024

When it comes to the wedge section of the bag, you often need to look at the loft of your pitching wedge to determine the gapping of the next few clubs. Typically the best pitching wedges will sit at a loft of 46º - 50º, whilst sand wedges are slightly more lofted and sit between 54º – 58º. Distance-wise, there will usually be around 20 - 30 yards difference, which means you will need to fill that void with a gap wedge.  

Gap wedges typically have a loft of between 50° and 54° and, especially as the wedges are the scoring clubs, every golfer should seriously think about adding a gap wedge to their bag.

So, that is why we have helped narrow down your search and come up with the best options on the market right now. Alternatively, if you are in the market for a different type of wedge, then take a look at our guides on the best lob wedges, most forgiving golf wedges or, if you are new to the game, the best golf wedges for beginners.

The Quick List

Best Gap Wedges

Titleist Vokey SM10 Wedge

The first model we have listed is the Titleist Vokey SM10 which, admittedly, appears as if very little has changed, looks-wise, from the SM9. However, where Titleist have made changes is within the club itself, as the centre of gravity has been more centrally placed and further away from the heel.

Because of the moved CG, there is now a lower launch and higher spin which, in testing, helped to improve the predictability and control while in play. This new model also benefits from increased groove life and improved play feel, with the added spin we experienced likely down to the cut TX9 grooves, which differ based on the loft or finish of the wedge. Additionally, there is a micro-texture between the grooves to create more friction and more spin around the greens, which aids control. 

Given the testing and performance, we think the Titleist SM10 wedges have definitely progressed and improved from the SM9s. Certainly, in a market place where you are already considered the industry leader, we think improving your product even a little deserves a lot of praise.

• Read our full Titleist Vokey SM10 Wedge Review

Cleveland CBX 4 Zipcore Wedge

Boasting a fantastic blend of forgiveness combined with performance, the Cleveland CBX 4 Zipcore wedges are a great option for golfers of varying abilities. That said, these wedges are designed primarily for golfers in the mid-to-high handicap range, but would also benefit the lower handicap golfer who is looking for a helping hand with their short game.

Looks-wise, it has hints of the best wedges for beginners, in the sense of a slightly larger footprint and thicker topline to inspire confidence. However, although the CBX 4 Zipcore shares these traits, it does it without screaming game improver, especially at address.

Sharing the same Zipcore technology found in some of the best Cleveland wedges, the performance was excellent in testing, as the higher MOI and more central CG gave us great forgiveness on off-centre strikes. Being a cavity-back wedge, there was great feel off the face that provided enough feedback to the relevant player. One last point to mention is that, when chipping, it did feel a little firm, which will divide opinion.

• Read our full Cleveland CBX 4 Zipcore Wedge Review

Ping S159 Wedge

Following the release of the Blueprint T and Blueprint S, which are some of the best irons for low handicappers, Ping has introduced the blade-style S159 wedges and, straight off the bat, they look amazing! Out of the box, the clean, simplistic design will appeal to most, with the S159 available in multiple grinds and finishes, whilst small touches, like the black banner on the rear, only heightens the offer further.

Moving to the performance, the S159 had a soft feel, particularly on fuller shots, whilst the consistent, mid-high trajectory allowed our tester to be aggressive when striking into the greens. What really stood out, though, was the insane amount of spin we were able to create which, thankfully, didn't over-spin and reduce control. Because of this, these are easily amongst one of the best wedges for chipping that money can buy.

Admittedly, the slim topline and compact profile won't appeal to all, but to the more competent ball-striker, it should inspire confidence when faced with more challenging approach shots. 

• Read our full Ping S159 Wedge Review

Cleveland CBX Full-Face 2 Wedge

Out of the box, we instantly noticed that the main standout of the Cleveland CBX Full-Face 2 is that the grooves are the full width of the face, even up to the very edge of the toe. What's more, it also possesses all the technology we see in the best golf wedges for beginners, as a number of shaft, sole and loft options means you can really hone in your preferences. 

Beginning with the forgiveness which, thanks to the cavity-back design, the CBX Full-Face 2 excels in. To add further, it even features a TPU gel back insert that sits in the cavity to moderate the acoustics and, in testing, we felt that it didn't sound like a cavity back at all.

Importantly, the feedback was superb and, within the gap wedge section (50° & 52°), there is a standard Full Sole grind that helps make this one of the most forgiving wedges for full shots. We must also note that, on the higher lofts from 54° upwards, the Cleveland CBX Full-Face 2 uses a C-Shaped Sole that has more relief in the heel and toe.

• Read our full Cleveland CBX Full-Face 2 Wedge Review

PXG Sugar Daddy II Wedge

PXG has launched the second iteration of its Sugar Daddy wedge and, off the bat, we thought the visuals were a step up over its predecessor. The look is very striking, with the eye-catching and unique adjustable weight housed at the back of the wedge meaning golfers who decide to go for a fitting can get it properly fine-tuned for their needs.

In testing, it provided great balance and, on mis-hits, we were still able to generate great levels of spin from the 100 per cent CNC milled grooves. On full shots, especially, the precision-weighting technology at the back of the club and in the high-toe design meant the flight and distance was really consistent.

Finally, the Sugar Daddy II has been designed with Tour feedback and, like some of the other wedges on this list, PXG have opted for full-face grooves. The brand have introduced a high-toe design, replacing its classic teardrop shaping, with this combination making each wedge look more lofted when standing over the ball.

• Read our full PXG Sugar Daddy II Wedge Review

Mizuno T24 Wedge

There’s something about the T24 Mizuno wedges that creates a sense of timelessness in terms of design, particularly when compared to other models on the market. Of all the designs to choose from, we particularly enjoyed the T24 in the Soft White Satin finish, but there are other options available if it doesn't appeal. 

Designed with versatility in mind, this classic-looking wedge is aimed at golfers of varying abilities. It does possess a compact head design, which will suit better players, but the high-spin face and several high bounce options ensure that golfers of every level are covered.

Mizuno are known for producing some of the best golf irons that money can buy and, with the T24, they have created a wedge offering that will also fit the bill nicely, especially as it excels on longer pitch shots and more full shots.

• Read our full Mizuno T24 Wedge Review

TaylorMade MG4 Wedge

The MG4 wedges feature an un-plated surface material that’s designed to rust over time to help maintain consistent spin in all weather conditions. In addition, TaylorMade has also chosen to add Raised Micro-Ribs between each groove on the clubface to help improve and hone spin and precision. 

In testing, we found that the aesthetics were extremely appealing, with both the black and chrome finishes looking sleek and smart. There’s also new spin tread technology that has been developed to help remove moisture away from the impact zone to optimise spin regardless of the weather. 

When we put this to the test, we found that the spin offered was fantastic and, what particularly stood out, was the Milled Grind Sole process used, with each grind individually milled for added accuracy. Importantly, there are several bounce options available. 

• Read our full TaylorMade Milled Grind 4 Wedge Review

Cobra King Snakebite Wedge

Firstly, when we put the Cobra King Snakebite Wedge to the test, we thought that it was, without doubt, one of the most forgiving wedges available. How, you may ask? Well, it has a classic club profile shape that, when combined with the full-face grooves, provides a lot more control from various playing conditions.

Along with the forgiveness, the Snakebite also provided ample stopping power, as the advanced groove technology implemented means the grooves are 11% deeper and 40% sharper. This allowed us to present incredible amounts of spin when hitting and chipping around the greens.

Unlike some other wedges on the market, we also thought that the ball flight could be manipulated easily with these wedges, but it's worth noting that the chrome finish does sometimes provide a glare that could put some off when down behind the ball.

• Read our full Cobra King Snakebite 2023 Wedge Review

Callaway CB 2023 Wedge

If you’re looking for a wedge that’s on the more forgiving side, then look no further than the Callaway CB 2023 Wedge, which is constructed to be ultra easy to use and offer golfers clean interaction from all manner of lies. 

What we particularly liked about these wedges is the fact that they come in multiple lofts and also have the option of full face grooves. What's more, these wedges also boast lashings of spin and feel, thanks to the cavity back head, so on a range of shots, they should be very confidence-inspiring. 

Although we felt that the CB wedge may not look as sleek as some of the other golf wedges on the market, the improvement in performance for golfers that struggle to play consistency should be almost immediate!

• Read our full Callaway CB Wedge Review

How we test

When it comes to wedges, we take the testing process very seriously. Whether we are sent a product or buy it ourselves, we put everything through its paces to ensure we can provide thorough and reliable advice. Every member of the Golf Monthly team is an avid golfer and as such, knows what does and doesn't make for a good wedge.

As far as our methodology goes, we review all wedges properly, which means we have used each one across multiple rounds and in practice to assess every aspect of performance in all conditions. For example, if a wedge claims to be the ultimate chipping club, we will test that theory from any and all lies possible.

Specific to this guide on the best best gap wedges, we tested every club thoroughly to assess the level of spin, feel and turf interaction. We were also keen to find out how forgiving each model was and if there were any differences in flight.

This comprehensive testing style is not just exclusive to wedges as we test with the same level of thoroughness across all categories of golf gear and equipment. For more information on how Golf Monthly tests products, take a look at our methodology here. Wedge testing is headed up by Golf Monthly Staff Writer Sam De'Ath, a former competitor on the EuroPro Tour and Clutch Pro Tours.

What to consider when buying a gap wedge

Gap wedges are an important tool any golfer should have in their arsenal. They cover the distance between your sand wedge and pitching wedge and can seriously help you nail the ball on the green from over 100 yards out. For that reason they can help you save a lot of shots in approach and around the greens. Its worth noting that there are a lot of different styles of gap wedges currently available on the market, many of which have different features and attributes that can sometimes be overwhelming if you're not the most knowledgable when it comes to club technology. It is important to get the club that suits your abilities and swing style, and for that reason, we've put together the below list of considerations that will help you find the right gap wedge for your swing. 

1. Gapping

Measure your current wedge yardages and how often you are in between clubs to help decide if what clubs you want to carry. Golfers will typically have around three wedges in their bag which will include a lob wedge, sand wedge and a pitching wedge but many also like to carry a gap wedge too. 

2. Bounce

Low bounce wedges are more suited to hard fairways and tight lies, while high bounce wedges are better for softer ground conditions and bunkers. The most bounce you will ever see on a wedge is about 18°, but it can be as low as 2°. The type of bounce you opt for should largely depend on things like your normal angle of attack, the firmness of your fairways and the type of shots you like to hit around the greens.

3. Forgiveness 

Every golfer knows the pain of hitting an immaculate drive down the fairway, only to chunk your approach shot into the green. Wedges are perhaps one of the hardest clubs to use when it comes to consistently hitting sweet golf shots on different lies. But you can save yourself a lot of shots, by using a wedge that provides greater forgiveness. 

Particularly if you are a beginner or a high-handicapper, a more forgiving sand wedge can help you become much more clinical around the greens. When looking for more forgiving wedges, look out for clubs that have cavity-backed heads, wedges that have a center of gravity closer to the sole and wedges that have a higher MOI to improve the quality and consistency of shots your hitting. For more information on wedges that can help you hit consistently sweeter golf shots.

4. Grooves

While grooves are now tightly regulated, it is still well worth keeping up to date with the latest designs, which use new milling processes and groove shapes to help move water and dirt away from the ball at impact to create extra spin and improve control. 

5. Testing

At Golf Monthly, we recommend players take the time to test a variety of different wedges at a club fitting. As they can come in a variety of lofts, grinds and bounce degrees, it is important to ascertain which type of wedges can help you perform the best depending on your swing and the type of terrain you're playing on. 

For more advice on the types of wedges you may also want to add to your bag, take a look at our guides on the best lob wedges, best sand wedges and best pitching wedges. 

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