Loft
Equipment
Explained Simply
The angle of the clubface relative to vertical. Higher loft = higher, shorter shots. Lower loft = lower, longer shots.
Example
“A pitching wedge (45°+ loft) launches the ball high and lands softly. A driver (9–11° loft) hits low and rolls far.”
Why it matters
Loft determines trajectory and distance. Beginners often do better with more loft because it's forgiving and helps get the ball airborne.
Common beginner mistake
Using low-lofted clubs (like a 3-iron) when you're struggling to get the ball in the air. Use more loft.
Related
beginner
Equipment
Related
- WedgeThe highest-lofted irons, built for short, high shots around the green and into it. Common types are pitching, gap, sand, and lob wedge — each with more loft than the last.
- Carry DistanceHow far the ball travels through the air before it first hits the ground. Does not include rollout after landing.