When it comes to scoring in golf, precision matters.
Every foot closer to the hole can improve your chances of making the next putt. Turning a 15-foot putt into an eight-foot putt may not seem like a huge difference, but over the course of a round, those extra feet can have a major impact on your score.
That is why understanding your wedge distances is such an important part of becoming a better player.
IJGA Director of Instruction Matt Fields recently worked with Campbell Mohan on building a wedge matrix—a simple but effective way to understand exactly how far each wedge travels with different swing lengths.
Why Wedge Distance Control Matters
A large percentage of scoring opportunities happens from 130 yards and in.
From that distance, players need more than one stock of yardage per club. Being able to control both distance and trajectory gives golfers more options depending on the pin position, wind, green conditions, and the type of shot required.
Instead of thinking of each wedge as having only one distance, players can build several reliable yardages by using different swing lengths.
For example:
• Half swing
• Three-quarter swing
• Full swing
By testing each swing with each wedge, players can create a complete distance chart they can rely on during competition.
Building the Wedge Matrix
During the session, Matt first worked through Campbell’s lob wedge distances.
His numbers were:
• Half swing: 60 yards
• Three-quarter swing: 75 yards
• Full swing: 100 yards
They then moved to the sand wedge.
Students’ half swing with the sand wedge also traveled approximately 100 yards.
At first, that might seem unnecessary. Why would a player need two different shots that travel the same distance?
The answer is a trajectory.
The full lob wedge produced a much higher flight, while the half sand wedge created a lower, more controlled trajectory. Even though both shots traveled roughly 100 yards, they gave Campbell two very different options.
Same Distance, Different Shot
Having multiple ways to hit the same yardage can be extremely valuable on the course.
Imagine you have exactly 100 yards to the pin.
If the pin is positioned toward the front of the green and you need the ball to stop quickly, a higher lob wedge may be the better option.
If the pin is toward the back of the green, a lower-flighted half sand wedge may allow you to control the trajectory and distance more effectively.
The goal is not simply to know how far each club goes. It is to understand how different swing lengths and trajectories can produce different shots for different situations.
Add More Yardages to Each Club
The next step in Campbell’s session was a three-quarter sand wedge, which traveled approximately 115 yards.
As players continue filling out their wedge matrix, they will often notice some overlapping yardages.
That is completely normal.
Those overlapping numbers create more options because each club and swing length may produce a different trajectory, spin rate, or landing angle.
The more reliable options a player has inside 130 yards, the easier it becomes to select the right shot for the situation.
How Often Should You Check Your Wedge Distances?
Wedge distances can change throughout the year as a player’s swing develops, equipment changes, or wedges begin to wear.
Matt recommends going through the wedge matrix several times throughout the year, especially after adding new wedges to your bag.
Once you have your numbers, keep them somewhere easily accessible while you play.
You can record them in:
• Your yardage book
• A scorecard holder
• Your phone
• A printed wedge chart
The important thing is to make sure the information is available when you need it.
Stop Guessing and Know Your Numbers
Good wedge play is not about guessing.
It is about knowing your numbers, understanding your trajectories, and having multiple options from scoring distance.
By creating a wedge matrix and regularly checking your yardages, you can approach shots with more confidence and give yourself more realistic birdie and par opportunities.
The closer you can consistently leave the ball to the hole, the better your chances of lowering your scores.
