What Does A Good Chip Shot Look Like?

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 If we want to get really technical, a seasoned golf professional will tell you that the perfect chip shot spends about one-third of its time in the air and the remaining two-thirds on the ground rolling toward a target.  Some golf professionals will tell you they only chip with a sand wedge and for others it's only a 7 iron.

I don't want to get technical.

I believe a good chip shot looks like a golfer that has chosen a club that she feels GOOD about that will allow her to create a shot that finishes near her target and gives her a chance to make a putt. Sometimes that chip shot is low and rolling and other times that shot is higher and softer.  However, the perfect chip shot is one that is enjoyable to hit and matches the vision that the creatrix had in mind.

So how do we know what kind of shot we want to hit?

First, look at the grass.  It will tell you what kind of shots are available. Fluffy, thick grass may require a club with more loft like one of our wedges, especially a lob or sand wedge.  The reason for this is that long, fluffy, thick grass may grab the hosel (neck) of the club and close down the face.  A club with lots of loft isn't affected as much by this strangling action. Thin lies, or short tight grass might feel better with a club with not as much loft, so maybe a pitching wedge or 8 iron or even hybrid.

Second, look at the green or target. Is the target close to us or do we have a lot of space? Is the shot level or is there a slope? Is the area where the ball will land soft or hard? In general, without knowing the complete situation you are facing:

IF...

Close to Target/ Hard Ground/Level or Downward Slope

THEN...Take More Loft. Use a Wedge, IF YOU LIKE.

IF...

Lots of Space between You and Target/Soft Ground/Level or Upward Slope

THEN...Ability to use Less Loft. Use Irons, Hybrids, or Putter, IF YOU LIKE.

So how do we practice these shots?

Start with experimenting. Ask yourself, "what happens if I use this club?" Try it and then pick a different club and try it. 

 My point is there is no right or wrong.  It is about how YOU feel as you are preparing for and executing the shot. And if you feel GOOD, there is a better chance that you will like your results.

Sorry I got technical.

Many Birdies,

Melissa

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