Bertrand,

Yes, that’s correct. There are a variety of factors in play, but some players will generate more spin with a 50 than a 56 or 60.

Best,

Matt

Josh,

Reducing loft will reduce spin, all else equal, but if we’re talking about wedge shots, we’re starting from a place of very high spin so “reduced spin” can still be enough. I would not advise players to actively try to hit “more down” to add spin as I think it will typically hurt their contact quality. High quality contact is the most underrated factor in spinning wedges and irons.

Best,

Matt

Is there a way to spin sand and lob wedges?? I see the pros doing this (which I realize are highly skilled haha). Does that mean that they hit controlled PW or 9 iron to reduce the spin? This is something I have been working on- “flighting” my high lofted irons (9,PW, GW) ONLY to play better in wind. I don’t often swing full with a sand wedge or Lob wedge.

Just trying to learn more about spin! I always thought de-lofting my wedges would create more spin. I assume I still need a fairly downward strike to create spin?

Thanks!!

Matt, thank you for your response.
Bob

Bob,

I believe that you’re right. If all else is completely equal, draws and fades should go the same distance. However, in practice, draws typically have less spin and slightly higher ball speed as a result of lower effective loft so they may fly farther and will run farther. Also, there was likely a bigger disparity in draws and fades when the ball spun more, and since golf commentating is roughly 30 years behind the times, they’re still stuck on that.

Best,

Matt

James,

Good question. I don’t have a chart, but I can relay that I’ve never heard a fitter search for anything north of 2,500 RPM. That kind of spin could be useful for a much slower swinger, but I think the majority of golfers are pretty well-served in that 2,000-2,500 range. There does exist some discrepancy among fitters as to how low they like to go at moderate speeds – some seek that 17*/1700 combo even around 90 MPH.

It’s also worth mentioning that, for the handicap golfer, there’s a certain insanity to getting really wrapped up in spin rates (I know from firsthand experience). The reason I say that is that spin rates vary dramatically depending on strike quality. I am NEVER against club fitting, but a 15-handicap player has more to gain from improving their strike quality than worrying about the difference between 1,800 RPM and 2,000 RPM on their rare perfect swing.

Best,

Matt