How Many Degrees Is a Lob Wedge? Typical Loft Range Explained

By Graham Fisher

Updated November 2026

A lob wedge typically has between 58 and 62 degrees of loft, with 60 degrees being the most common setting. That number tells you how high the ball launches and how much it will stop on the green. This guide explains where lob wedge loft usually falls, how to check the degree on your own club, and how to decide whether a higher or lower loft suits your game.

Typical Lob Wedge Loft Range

Most manufacturers offer lob wedges in 58, 60, and 62 degrees, with some models going as high as 64 degrees. The sand wedge usually sits around 54 to 56 degrees, so the lob wedge is the highest-lofted club in a standard wedge setup. Higher loft produces a steeper flight and a softer landing, which is why lob wedges are favored for shots over bunkers, tight pin placements, and short approaches where you need the ball to stop quickly.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Lob Wedge Loft Degree vs Gap Wedge: Which Should You Choose?.

How to Check the Loft on Your Lob Wedge

The loft is usually stamped on the sole or the back of the club head, often with a small number followed by a degree symbol or the letter L. If the stamp is worn or missing, you can measure it with a loft and lie gauge at a golf shop or fitting center. Check this before you buy a used club, since some older or customized wedges have been bent and may no longer match their original spec.

Steps to Read the Stamp

Look at the sole of the club, the flat part that touches the ground at address.
Find the number near the model name or on the back of the head.
Confirm the number matches the club’s stated loft on the manufacturer’s spec sheet, if you have it.
If the stamp is unclear, have a fitter measure the loft and lie angle together.

Choosing the Right Lob Wedge Loft for Your Game

Loft choice depends on how far you hit your full wedge shots and what kinds of short shots you face most often. Golfers who need more height and softness around the green usually benefit from 60 or 62 degrees, while players who want more distance and a lower, running flight may prefer 58 degrees. Gapping matters here too: aim for roughly 4 to 6 degrees between each wedge so your yardage gaps stay consistent.

Loft	Typical Flight	Best Use
58 degrees	Mid to low	Longer approaches, firm greens
60 degrees	Mid to high	All-around short game
62 to 64 degrees	High and soft	Flop shots, tight pins, bunkers

Common Mistakes When Choosing Lob Wedge Loft

Choosing a very high loft without knowing how far you hit your sand wedge, which can leave a large gap in your distances.
Assuming a lob wedge is only for flop shots and never using it for standard chips.
Ignoring bounce, which affects how the club interacts with turf and sand as much as loft does.
Buying a used wedge without confirming its loft, since bent clubs can differ from the printed number.

Recommended Gear

A loft and lie gauge is useful if you want to verify a stamp or check a used club before buying. A wedge gapping chart or launch monitor session can also help you confirm distances between your wedges.

Loft and lie gauge that lets you measure wedge loft at home or in the shop: View on Amazon
Wedge gapping chart or yardage training tool to map distances between your clubs: View on Amazon

FAQ

How many degrees is lob wedge most commonly?

The most common lob wedge loft is 60 degrees, with 58 and 62 degrees also widely available. Some models reach 64 degrees for players who want extra height.

Is a 62 degree lob wedge too high for beginners?

It can be harder to control for beginners because the ball flies high and lands softly, which magnifies small swing errors. Many beginners do better starting with a 58 or 60 degree wedge.

Does lob wedge loft affect distance?

Yes. Higher loft reduces carry distance, so a 62 degree wedge will typically fly shorter than a 58 degree one with the same swing. Check your own distances on a range or launch monitor to set accurate yardage gaps.

Conclusion

Most lob wedges fall between 58 and 62 degrees, with 60 degrees being the standard choice for a versatile short game. Check the stamp on your club, confirm the loft if the club is used, and match the number to your full-wedge distances. Choosing the right loft makes your wedge play more predictable around the green.

Ready to choose one?

About Graham Fisher

Graham Fisher is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our putting & short game guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.

About the author

Graham Fisher

Graham Fisher writes reviews and buying guides for Putting For Par.