How Irons Work and In What Situations

Irons

Irons are shots intended for the green. They may be played from the fairway, the rough, side hill lies, sand and other areas. Irons have different lofts for different distances. When playing from uneven lies, knowing the effects of the slope on contact and its effect on the ball flight is an important skill to master these shots.

Chips

Chips are low shots from green side. These flat shots fly short distances and roll out along the ground more to the target. Proper contact with chips shots is more to the back of the ball. Generally use a 9, 8 or 7 iron because these irons have the proper amount of loft to brush these shots flat along the ground.

Pitches

Pitches are shots played with wedges from various distances around different the greens. These shots fly higher in the air, land softer with less roll on the green after they land. Good pitching requires a little more swing and speed to create the proper height and distance the shot requires.

Flops

Flops are more extreme pitches with lob wedges. These shots are hit with bigger swings to create enough speed to launch the ball very high into the air. The club passes more underneath the ball like sliding a piece of paper underneath it. Understanding the lie of the ball and what shots are possible from certain lies allow you to choose the best possible shot for the situation.

Variation of woods

There are variations of woods that allow players of different skill levels to benefit. Fairway woods have different lofts ranging from 13-28 degrees. These are still hit from longer distances but players with slower swing speeds need more loft to get the ball higher into the air. There are also differences in models and club designs and most of these variables are relative to the player’s capabilities and needs.

Putter sizes, shapes and variations

There are so many different putter options that it can seem daunting and overwhelming to choose. Most putters come in different lengths, lies and weights to best suit the needs of individual players. Having a putter that fits you is a must. A player can go out and play with anything but getting a putter that is the correct length, has the right lie angle relative to the ground and that you can aim properly allows a player the best possible chance to learn consistency!