Sand Wedge Bounce Defined

A new definition of bounce

Sand wedge bounce defined with the elements of degree of bounce, sole camber, sole width, and the sole grind, contribute to a perfect fit. These variables are adjusted to match the turf conditions that you are playing, how you want to use the club as well as your angle of attack specific to how you swing the club. Lets take a look at these elements so that we can see how they can contribute to the bounce of any sand wedge and give the golfer a wedge that can both facilitate and offset how one swings the club.

Bounce: This is the angle of the bottom of the club or sole, measured from the leading edge while including the other four elements of sole radius, sole camber, sole width and sole grind. Bounce gives this club a resistance to digging as it lifts the club out of the ground not unlike an airplane wing giving an airplane lift. This is accomplished by using the back part of the club when hitting the ground.

Camber: This is the amount of curvature from the leading edge to the trailing edge.  Increasing the camber increases the bounce angle while reducing the amount of sole surface. Less camber would be great for soft turf and fluffy sand where increased camber would work better for harder ground and sand.

Width of sole: simple the distance from the trailing edge to leading edge. Making the sole wider increases the effect bounce of the club and making it more narrow decreases the bounce.

Sole grind: This is the amount that is taken off of the trailing edge the heel and the toe used to offset any weakness in the swing or to enhance the strengths. The angle of attack in the downswing determines the amount of bounce and the grind needed. A steeper angle requires more bounce and a more shallow angle less bounce. From the very steep to shallow Bob Vokey, working with the PGA tour players, developed over time a wedge for every swing type and situation. These wedges have recently been released and made available both from Titleist and David Edell.