WEDGES – Measurable Framework

Spin Performance (30%)

Measured via launch monitor + on-course validation.

Test Conditions

  • 50-yard

  • 75-yard

  • 100-yard (or full swing for loft)

  • Clean premium ball

  • Same strike pattern verified with face spray

Metrics

  • Average spin rate

  • Spin consistency (standard deviation)

  • Spin retention from rough (10 shots)

  • One-hop-and-stop window (visual landing test)

Scoring

  • High average spin

  • Low variance

  • Minimal rough spin drop-off

Distance Control (25%)

Wedges are scoring tools — dispersion > raw distance.

Metrics

  • Carry distance variance (10-shot sets)

  • Front-to-back dispersion window

  • Spin-to-launch consistency ratio

  • Smash factor consistency

Scored based on:

  • Tightest carry window

  • Predictable trajectory windows

Launch & Trajectory Control (15%)

Measured by:

  • Launch angle consistency

  • Peak height consistency

  • Descent angle

  • Ability to flight down (controlled knockdown test)

Wedges shouldn’t balloon or float unpredictably.

Turf Interaction (15%)

This is where wedges separate themselves.

Testing

  • Tight fairway lie

  • Light rough

  • Bunker (if applicable grind)

  • Slightly wet turf

Measured via:

  • Strike location consistency

  • Entry/exit divot pattern

  • Ground interaction resistance (subjective but standardized scale)

Forgiveness & Strike Retention (10%)

  • Spin retention on toe/heel strikes

  • Ball speed retention

  • Launch deviation on mishits

Wedges don’t get talked about for forgiveness enough — this matters.

Feel & Feedback (5%)

Lowest weighted category.

Graded on:

  • Impact sound consistency

  • Strike location feedback clarity

  • Player confidence rating