The 50-yard pitch is one of golf’s crucial scoring shots — yet it continues to stump amateurs. Not because the technique is inherently difficult, but because players lack the knowledge of how to play it, rarely practice it and typically only attempt these shots under pressure.
Now, compare that to what you see on tour. When pros find themselves at this awkward distance, you can almost guarantee they’ll leave it close. That’s because they know how to flight their wedges — deliberately hitting them with a lower trajectory to control their spin and consistency into the green. This not only allows for pinpoint accuracy, but it also helps them navigate severe slopes or firm greens that might otherwise send the ball rocketing to the back or bouncing off entirely.
But this isn’t a skill players are born with, it’s something they’ve honed over long hours on the practice range, building a repeatable setup and swing — and it’s a skill you can develop too.
According to Parker McLachlin, a GOLF Teacher to Watch, all you need are a few setup and swing keys and you’ll be on your way to flighting your wedges like a pro. Watch the video below or read on to find out what they are.
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McLachlin explains that the modern approach to flighted wedges starts with a narrow base. In the video above, you can see he sets his feet roughly a clubhead, maybe a clubhead and a half, apart, creating a compact stance that promotes better body rotation.
The next step is to engage your body and keep your backswing wide. Many amateurs tend to collapse their arms or rely too much on their hands and arms during these shorter, feel-based shots, but McLachlin explains that’s exactly what you want to avoid.
“I’m going to feel like I’m trying to create some width on this backswing,” McLachlin says. “I don’t want to get hinge-y and throw-y here.”
One big misconception around these key scoring shots is that they don’t require much speed or body rotation, but that’s not true. You still need to accelerate through impact to compress the ball properly. Plus, using your body — not just your arms or hands — to rotate through the shot helps you stay balanced and connected during the shot. This leads to more consistent strikes, especially under pressure when smaller muscles tend to tense up.
As you practice these shots, just remember: nice and wide, rotate through.
This simple saying will help you practice flighting your wedges down with the spin you need to control these key shots like the pros.
ShortGameChef.com, created by PGA Tour winner Parker McLachlin, provides golfers with a comprehensive resource to improve their short game. Through personalized tips, drills, and expert insights, Parker helps players of all levels gain more confidence and a deeper understanding of their short game to lower their scores. You can browse membership options here.
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