What is Wedge Flex?

Numerous components go into building a successful golf club, and for the all-important wedge, one of those is the flex in the shaft.

Wedge flex refers to how much bend the shaft of your wedge club will have. Increased flex gives you greater power on smaller swings, whereas reduced flex can help to improve your precision. Which you decide to emphasize entirely depends on how you like to play.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about wedge flex, including why it's important and what you need to look for before making your own purchase. Let's dive in!

Does Flex Matter for Wedges?

In short, yes. The amount of give your wedge possesses will determine how much whip the shaft of your club provides when you swing. It can affect the trajectory, power, and how comfortable you are when you play. Everyone has a different playing style, and flex can contribute significantly to this.

When it comes to wedges, the flex tends to be a little stiffer than your other clubs. You may have heard the phrase ‘stiff flex’ before. It is another term for wedge flex, deriving its name from the fact that the give on a wedge shaft is noticeably stiffer than your other clubs.

Should Your Wedge Shafts Match Your Irons' Shafts?

The brief answer is yes, but due to the constant innovation of golf clubs over the years, this can be easier said than done. It's no longer the case that all golf clubs of the same type are similar. Different brands build vastly different clubs, even of the same type, which could include different lengths, grip, and lie angles. 

However, it is best to have your wedge shafts match your irons' shafts as much as possible. The similarity ensures more consistency while you play and will gradually improve your performance with both sets of clubs. 

Keep this in mind if you ever need to replace your wedges or irons since you will often need to replace the shafts as well to maintain this consistency. Generally speaking, your wedge shaft should be equal to your irons or heavier. 

Are Wedge Shafts Stiffer?

When compared to your irons, wedge shafts will often be stiffer. The reduced flex accommodates the wedge's greater weight and provides your swing with more balance. 

Of course, the stiffness of the wedge shaft will vary between brands and types. You can often find this information in product descriptions, and it is always worth checking out before purchasing to ensure you're making the right decision to suit your swing speed. 

What is the Difference Between Regular Flex and Senior Flex?

Regular and senior flex are indicators of which shaft stiffness you should be using when you play based on your swing speed:

• Regular Flex: These shafts are for golfers with an average swing of around 93 mph for an amateur golfer. The shafts have a bend, but not so much that it would slow down your swing. Most players will opt for a regular flex for their shaft, as the reduced give allows greater control over trajectory when hit at higher speeds.
• Senior Flex: As the name suggests, these shafts are for older players with a slower swing, approximately 70-85mph. They have an increased give that assists with power to help the ball travel further. This flexibility is also sometimes referred to as lite flex.

The last thing you want is to buy a shaft that doesn't suit your play style. Faster swingers will overshoot their swing if their shaft is too light, whereas slower swingers will struggle to achieve the right spin with a heavier shaft. Always read the small print before committing to a wedge shaft, as these details matter!

Conclusion

The more thought you put into the design of your clubs, the greater your performance will be out on the course. Every detail counts, including the flex of your wedge! Whenever you purchase a new club or swap out old parts, make sure to thoroughly check the specifications—and then make sure your golf bag is up to the task of protecting your carefully selected wedge and other clubs.

At STITCH Golf, we specialize in creating stylish, affordable, and quality golf bags. Shop our golf bags today to find the gear to keep your clubs in optimal condition.