PGA coach Dan Grieve explains why the 60-degree lob wedge should be reserved for specific short-game emergencies rather than every chip. He demonstrates advanced techniques for tight lies, buried rough, and downhill slopes where high loft and spin are essential for recovery.
Use the 60-degree wedge on downhill, down-grain chips where the ball needs immediate spin to stop.
The 'toe-down' method with a 60-degree wedge helps nip the ball cleanly off firm, tight lies where bounce would otherwise cause a thin shot.
In buried lies (rough or sand), the 60-degree wedge provides the necessary steep entry and loft to pop the ball out quickly.
Avoid using the 60-degree into the wind or when there is plenty of green to work with; a 7-iron or 9-iron offers much better distance control.
The 60-degree is an 'emergency' club because its high loft makes it the least forgiving option for the average golfer.
Go deeper
Off the rails — Causes, drills and coaches for this miss