Stuck in the sand trap? Here’s what you need to know

If you're planning on spending your holiday in Mornington Peninsula, you should take advantage of the region's wide selection of golf courses, if you're privy to the game. 

The question is, are you fully prepared for any obstacles that may be thrown your way? The sand trap can be the bane of players without adequate sand wedges. What should you look for in such a club? Is your own sand wedge up to par?  

During times such as these, it's best to consult the pros.   

It's in the bounce   

At least, that's what Mark Crossfield, a Professional Golfers' Association coach who instructs at Clifton Hill Golf Range in Exeter, UK, says players should look for in a competent wedge. He defines bounce as "the angle of the bottom of the club".   

Choosing a wedge based on its bounce typically depends on what kind of golfer you are – a swinger or a digger. He details these differences in this YouTube video:  

In regards to sand wedges, Golf Digest spoke with Jeff Brunski, Cleveland Golf's manager of research and business solutions on the matter. He asserted that bounce is influenced by the width and grind of a sole – but which component should players pay attention to?

From his experience, Brunski explained that a wide sole can experience a fair amount of resistance when it hits sand. So, players with shallow swings typically perform well with these these types of clubs. 

What does the PGA director of instruction think?   

Brech Spradley, PGA director of instruction, wrote a piece for Barton Creek Golf Academy, identifying a few components that make sand wedges ideal for traps: 

• The bounce prevents the sole of the club from digging into the sand, which would otherwise stop the flow of your swing. 
• These clubs are typically "four to eight swing weights heavier" than other wedges to give players more leverage when swinging in a trap. 

As far as specifications are concerned, choosing the right club also depends on the type of courses you're playing on. So, be sure to assess the type of sand traps Mornington Peninsula typically has. 

For instance, if the sand traps are typically shallow and more compact, then a more narrow sole and moderate bounce will aid you well. In contrast, a deeper trap with loose land will likely need a more pronounced bounce. 

Keeping these factors in mind will help you ensure your game is top notch. Never underestimate the usefulness of a good sand wedge. 

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