In golf, a gap wedge is used for distances between a pitching wedge and a sand wedge. It fills the distance and loft gap between those two clubs, giving players another option for approach shots.
Modern pitching wedges often have lofts around 45–48 degrees, while sand wedges commonly range from about 54–58 degrees. That separation can create a substantial difference in carry distance, so a gap wedge—often near 50–54 degrees—helps golfers make more controlled swings between the neighboring clubs.
The club became more common as iron manufacturers reduced the loft of numbered irons and pitching wedges to produce longer advertised distances. Sand wedges generally retained their traditional loft because that design helps the club move through sand and lift the ball out of a bunker.
A common mix-up is that “approach wedge,” “attack wedge,” and “utility wedge” can be manufacturer-specific names for similar clubs. “Lob wedge,” by contrast, is a different, higher-lofted club intended for very high, short shots.