Distance Myths

Whether you are a top PGA Tour Professional or a high handicap amateur seeking to improve your enjoyment of the game, everyone is looking for a few more yards in today's technology-driven golf world.

Every equipment manufacturer boasts "newly improved," "longer," "higher launch angle/less spin," etc. What does all the technology jargon really mean, and more importantly, how can it help you shoot lower scores?

As an amateur, it is especially important for you to understand a few of the "distance misconceptions" that I often see.

1. Less loft equals greater distance ... False

For you to benefit from a low-lofted driver (less than 10 degrees), you must have a very high clubhead speed to achieve the necessary launch angle or trajectory to maximize distance.

2. Longest ball equals greater distance ... False

Again, maximum distance is a function of many variables including the spin rate of the golf ball. To maximize distance, the clubhead speed at impact must complement the spin rate of the golf ball, which provides the necessary lift on the golf ball to maintain its flight.

3. Longer shaft provides greater distance ... False

Although in theory, a longer club will provide greater clubhead speed, which increases distance, I continually see the top PGA Tour Professionals playing shorter drivers than the majority of the amateurs.

A longer-shafted driver offers an opportunity for distance. However, hitting the ball in the center of the clubface or sweetspot is greatly influenced by the length of the shaft. The longer the shaft the more difficult it becomes to hit your shots solid and consistent.

As golf continues to evolve into a game of power and distance, remember that for you to maximize your game you must find the equipment which best suits your swing speed. This may require experimenting with several different combinations of golf balls as well as loft and length of drivers.