A high, soft pitch is one of the most satisfying shots in golf, and it’s easier to hit than you might think. Start by using a sand wedge or lob wedge. The loft of these clubs helps launch the ball, while the bounce allows the club to glide through the turf.
Many golfers struggle because the leading edge digs into the ground, causing fat or stubbed shots. Learn to use the bounce correctly, and you’ll start hitting crisp, consistent pitch shots around the green.
Here are five keys that will help you use the bounce of your club more effectively and improve your short game.
1. Set the clubface square
Lofted wedges are designed to appear open at address. Properly setting the club on its sole is critical because it allows the wedge’s full loft and bounce to work as intended.
Start with the clubface square to slightly open. Opening the face more can increase launch and bounce, which may benefit higher-speed players. But for most golfers, square to slightly open is an ideal starting point.
2. Keep the clubhead centered
Ball position is a key to consistent pitch shots. Ideally, the clubhead should be positioned near the center, or slightly forward, in your stance.
This helps reduce excessive forward shaft lean, which can expose the leading edge and cause the club to dig. If you prefer playing the ball farther back in your stance, opening the face slightly can add bounce and help offset the steeper shaft angle.
3. Start with a neutral shaft position
A neutral shaft position at address helps maintain the wedge’s natural loft and bounce. As a starting point, the grip should point toward the center of your body rather than significantly forward. This allows the sole of the wedge to rest on the turf as it was designed and gives the bounce a chance to work.
4. Proper release through impact
While your address position matters, the shaft angle at impact is even more important. Unlike a full swing shot, pitches do not require significant forward shaft lean at impact. With shorter swings and lower clubhead speeds, too much lean can expose the leading edge and cause the club to dig.
Instead, let the clubhead release naturally so it aligns more closely with the shaft through impact. This release pattern is different from a full swing and allows the bounce to interact with the turf first, creating cleaner contact and more consistent results.
5. Find a wedge that fits you
Even the best technique will only get you so far if you’ve got the wrong wedge setup. The right combination of loft, bounce, and sole design plays a major role in how the club interacts with the turf.
If your wedges consistently dig or feel harsh through impact, it may be an equipment issue rather than a technique issue. First, make sure your fundamentals are sound with a qualified golf instructor. Then, getting properly fit for your wedges can be a game changer.
